Imagine this: the sizzle of perfectly cooked bacon, the even char on your burgers, and the joy of feeding your family and friends with delicious outdoor meals. That’s the magic a flat top griddle brings to your backyard. But with so many choices out there, picking the right one can feel like a huge task. You want something that cooks evenly, is easy to clean, and lasts a long time, right? It’s frustrating when you spend money on a grill that doesn’t deliver.
This guide is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about outdoor flat top griddles. You’ll learn about the different types, what features to look for, and even get tips on how to use and care for yours. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the perfect griddle to become the star of your outdoor cooking adventures.
Our Top 5 Outdoor Flat Top Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Outdoor Flat Top Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Charbroil 28″ Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle with Cart 2 Burner Flat Top Grill
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to become a backyard grilling champion with the Charbroil 28″ Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle with Cart. This black flat-top grill is packed with features to make your outdoor cooking easy and fun. It’s perfect for making everything from breakfast to burgers for your family and friends.
What We Like:
- The O-Burners provide even heat, so your food cooks perfectly without cold spots.
- Wind blockers help the griddle cook efficiently and save fuel.
- The heavy-duty, anti-warping griddle top is built to last and makes cleanup simple.
- You can cook up to 25 smash burgers at once on the large 450-square-inch cooking surface.
- The removable grease tray slides out easily for quick and mess-free cleaning.
- Convenient tool hooks keep your grilling tools right where you need them.
- A towel bar doubles as a handle, making it easy to move the griddle.
- Two sturdy wheels let you roll the griddle wherever you want it.
- The Piezo ignition is designed to work for the entire life of the grill.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty on all parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- A 20-pound propane tank is needed but not included with the griddle.
This Charbroil griddle is a fantastic addition to any patio for delicious and easy outdoor meals. It makes grilling enjoyable for everyone.
2. Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle 2 Burner Propane Fuelled Rear Grease Management System
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for a whole new way to cook outdoors with the Blackstone 28-inch Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle! This 2-burner propane griddle offers a massive 470 square inches of cooking space, perfect for whipping up everything from breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs to delicious dinners like steak and Teppanyaki. Say goodbye to the mess and hassle of charcoal or kerosene; this griddle features an easy push-button ignition, making outdoor cooking simpler and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- Restaurant-style cooking for a variety of foods.
- Easy to assemble and simple to use.
- Battery-powered push-button ignition gets you cooking fast.
- Convenient bottom and side shelves for food storage and prep.
- Removable griddle top, foldable legs, and caster wheels make it easy to transport.
- Blackstone offers a satisfaction guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- The rear grease management system can sometimes be a bit messy if not cleaned regularly.
- While transportable, it is still a substantial piece of equipment.
This Blackstone griddle is a fantastic upgrade for anyone who loves outdoor cooking. It makes preparing meals outside a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your food and company.
3. Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Removable Standing Cart
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to grill like a pro with the Royal Gourmet PD4001 4-Burner Propane Gas Griddle! This black griddle is super versatile. You can use it as a tall grill or take it off the stand to put on a picnic table. It’s perfect for camping, tailgating, or just cooking in your backyard. The hood keeps your griddle clean and also works as a wind guard when you’re cooking.
What We Like:
- It’s easy to switch between a standing grill and a tabletop grill.
- The hood protects the griddle and can be used as a wind blocker.
- It heats up evenly with four burners, giving you a big 639 sq. in. cooking space.
- The side shelves give you plenty of room for your food and tools.
- It’s easy to move around with two wheels, and it stays put with two sturdy legs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hood should not be closed during cooking, which might be a bit confusing for some.
This Royal Gourmet griddle is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to cook outdoors. It offers great flexibility and features that make outdoor cooking a breeze.
4. Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle with Cover
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for delicious outdoor meals with the Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable Table Top Gas Grill Griddle. This 24-inch griddle is designed for easy outdoor cooking, whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just enjoying your backyard. It’s portable and stores away easily. You can connect it to a standard 20 lb. propane tank to fuel its three burners, which put out a powerful 25,500 BTUs for fast cooking.
What We Like:
- It’s very portable and simple to store away.
- The sturdy feet keep it steady wherever you place it.
- A tough PVC cover is included to keep it protected from the weather.
- You get a large 319 square inch cooking space, enough for about 15 burger patties.
- The three burners heat up quickly and can be controlled separately.
- Starting the grill is easy with the push-button igniter.
- Cleaning up is no problem thanks to the removable grease cup.
- The griddle top can be taken off, making cleaning even simpler.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20 lb. propane tank is not included with the purchase.
This Royal Gourmet griddle makes outdoor cooking convenient and enjoyable. Its thoughtful design ensures you can focus on cooking great food and spending time with friends and family.
5. Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Folding Side Tables
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to host amazing outdoor parties with the Royal Gourmet GB6000 6 Burner Propane Gas Griddle. This 44-inch flat top grill is designed for serious backyard barbecues and can feed a crowd. Its spacious cooking area and convenient features make grilling a breeze.
What We Like:
- The extra-large 994 sq. in. cooking surface lets you cook up to 50 burgers at once, perfect for big gatherings.
- Six burners give you precise control to cook different foods at the same time.
- Folding side tables with towel rack, knife holder, and tool hooks keep your cooking area organized and accessible.
- The ceramic-coated griddle top is tough, resisting rust, scratches, and corrosion, and it’s super easy to clean.
- Double-layer bottom shelves and an upgraded storage cart provide plenty of room for all your grilling tools and supplies.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers great storage, the overall footprint might be large for smaller patios.
- Assembly may require some time and effort.
The Royal Gourmet GB6000 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience. It offers ample space, smart storage, and a durable cooking surface for many enjoyable meals.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Outdoor Flat Top Griddle
An outdoor flat top griddle is a fantastic way to cook all sorts of food outside. From breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs to burgers, veggies, and even seafood, these griddles can do it all. They offer a large, even cooking surface that lets you create delicious meals for family and friends.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an outdoor flat top griddle, keep these important features in mind:
- Size of the Cooking Surface: Think about how many people you usually cook for. Smaller griddles might be good for two, while larger ones are great for parties.
- Heat Control: Look for griddles with multiple burners. This lets you cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time. Some griddles even have independent heat zones.
- Ignition System: An easy-to-use ignition system makes starting your griddle a breeze. Piezo igniters are common and reliable.
- Grease Management: A good grease trap or collection system is essential. It keeps your griddle clean and prevents flare-ups.
- Portability: If you plan to take your griddle tailgating or camping, consider models with wheels or those that are lightweight and easy to move.
- Lid: Some griddles come with a lid. This helps with even cooking, keeps food warm, and protects the surface when not in use.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a griddle significantly impact its performance and how long it lasts.
- Cooking Surface: Most flat top griddles have a surface made of cast iron or cold-rolled steel. Cast iron heats up slowly but holds heat very well, giving you a great sear. Cold-rolled steel heats up faster and is often lighter. Both are durable if cared for properly.
- Frame and Body: The frame is usually made of stainless steel or powder-coated steel. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and looks good. Powder-coated steel is also durable but can be scratched.
- Burners: Burners are typically made of stainless steel to prevent rust and ensure even heat distribution.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Here’s what makes one griddle better than another:
- Build Quality: A well-built griddle feels sturdy. Check for solid welds and tight fittings. A flimsy griddle won’t last as long.
- Heat Distribution: The best griddles heat evenly across the entire surface. Poor heat distribution means some spots will be hotter than others, making cooking tricky.
- Ease of Cleaning: A good grease management system and a smooth cooking surface make cleaning much easier. If it’s hard to clean, you might not use it as much.
- Durability: High-quality materials and good construction mean your griddle will withstand outdoor elements and frequent use.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Using a flat top griddle is a unique cooking experience.
- Versatility: You can cook almost anything. Imagine breakfast burritos, smash burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, stir-fries, and even hibachi-style meals.
- Social Cooking: Griddles are great for entertaining. Everyone can gather around and watch the food being cooked, making it a fun, interactive experience.
- Easy Cleanup: Once you’re done, a quick scrape of the surface and a wipe-down is usually all it takes.
- Outdoor Living: It’s perfect for backyard BBQs, camping trips, tailgating, or just enjoying a meal on your patio.
Choosing the right outdoor flat top griddle means you’ll be cooking up delicious meals for years to come. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of fuel for an outdoor flat top griddle?
A: Most outdoor flat top griddles use propane gas. It’s readily available and provides consistent heat.
Q: How do I season my flat top griddle?
A: Seasoning is like creating a protective, non-stick layer. You typically apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface and heat it up until it smokes. Repeat this a few times. This is important for cast iron and cold-rolled steel surfaces.
Q: Can I cook frozen food on a flat top griddle?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen food. However, it’s often best to thaw it slightly first for more even cooking and better results.
Q: How do I clean my griddle after use?
A: While the griddle is still warm, scrape off any food bits with a metal spatula. Then, use a damp cloth or paper towels to wipe it clean. For tougher messes, you can use a grill brick or a degreaser. Always re-season after a deep clean.
Q: Are flat top griddles difficult to assemble?
A: Most griddles come with clear instructions and are designed for relatively easy assembly. It usually involves attaching legs, burners, and a grease tray.
Q: What is the difference between a flat top griddle and a grill?
A: A grill has grates that let grease and juices fall through, giving food char marks. A flat top griddle has a solid surface, so all the juices and flavors stay on the griddle, creating a different cooking style and taste.
Q: Can I use a griddle in the rain?
A: It’s best to avoid using your griddle in the rain. Water can affect the cooking temperature and potentially damage the griddle if it’s not designed to be weather-resistant. Always store it in a dry place.
Q: How long does it take to preheat a flat top griddle?
A: Preheating usually takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on the size and heat output of the griddle.
Q: Can I cook delicate foods like fish on a flat top griddle?
A: Yes, flat top griddles are excellent for cooking fish. The smooth surface allows the fish to cook evenly without sticking, and you can get a nice sear.
Q: What accessories are useful for a flat top griddle?
A: Useful accessories include spatulas for flipping and scraping, a grease scraper, a cover for protection, and possibly a griddle cleaning kit.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!