Imagine a backyard party where the sizzle of perfectly cooked burgers and the aroma of caramelized onions fill the air. You can achieve that with a backyard griddle! But with so many choices out there, picking the right one can feel like a huge task. It’s easy to get lost in all the features and brands, and you don’t want to end up with a griddle that doesn’t fit your needs or your budget.
This is where we come in. We’ve done the hard work for you. By reading on, you’ll discover what makes a great backyard griddle. You’ll learn about the different types, what to look for, and how to find the best fit for your family’s cookouts and weeknight dinners. Get ready to become a griddle pro and upgrade your outdoor cooking game!
Our Top 5 Backyard Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backyard Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle 2 Burner Propane Fuelled Rear Grease Management System
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to level up your outdoor cooking game with the Blackstone 28-inch 2-Burner Propane Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle. This isn’t just another grill; it’s a restaurant-style cooking station that brings amazing meals right to your backyard or campsite. With a huge 470 square inches of cooking space, you can whip up everything from fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon for breakfast to juicy steaks and stir-fries for dinner. Plus, it’s super simple to set up and use, making outdoor cooking a breeze.
What We Like:
- Restaurant-style cooking with 470 sq. inches of flat top space is perfect for all your favorite meals.
- It’s easy to assemble and use, so you can start cooking quickly.
- The battery-powered push-button ignition means no more fussing with matches.
- It’s easy to move around your yard or take camping thanks to the removable top, fold-up legs, and strong wheels.
- Blackstone offers a satisfaction guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for transport, the removable top and foldable legs, while convenient, might still require a bit of effort for some users to manage.
- The rear grease management system, while functional, could potentially be improved for even easier cleaning.
This Blackstone griddle station is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves cooking outdoors and wants a versatile, easy-to-use option. It makes outdoor meals fun and delicious.
2. Gas One Flat Top Grill With 4 Burners – Premium Propane Outdoor Grill Cart – Stainless Steel Auto Ignition Camping Griddle – Easy Cleaning Cooking
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to transform your outdoor cooking game with the Gas One Flat Top Grill with 4 Burners. This premium propane grill cart is designed for anyone who loves to cook outside, whether it’s for a backyard BBQ or a camping adventure. Its stainless steel construction and auto-ignition make it a reliable and easy-to-use option for creating delicious meals.
What We Like:
- It’s a must-have for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, perfect for backyard parties, camping, picnics, and more.
- The included detachable grill cart makes it super portable and easy to move around.
- The innovative H-pipe burner head ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked food every time.
- It’s mess-free and easy to clean thanks to its stainless steel body and built-in drip tray.
- The smart auto-ignition feature makes it simple to use, even for beginners.
- The kit comes with everything you need: the stove, regulator, hose, griddle, and cart.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for portability, the overall size might be a consideration for very small spaces.
- The pre-seasoned griddle is a nice touch, but some users might prefer to season it themselves to their exact liking.
This Gas One grill offers a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite meals outdoors. It’s a complete package that makes outdoor cooking enjoyable and simple.
3. Blackstone 22” On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle with Two Burners -Stainless Steel Gas Griddle with Hood
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for adventure with the Blackstone 22” On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle! This portable powerhouse brings serious outdoor cooking to any location. Its clever design makes it easy to take your griddling skills from your backyard to the beach, park, or campsite. Cook up a feast wherever you roam with this versatile and heavy-duty stainless steel griddle.
What We Like:
- The “Roll and Go” scissor leg design makes it super easy to move and set up anywhere. It folds up like a cart for simple transport.
- A handy side shelf gives you a perfect spot for food prep, spices, and cooking tools.
- The 22-inch cooking surface is big enough to make all sorts of meals, from breakfast favorites to burgers and more.
- Two burners with separate controls let you cook different foods at the same time, keeping some warm while others finish.
- The patented rear grease management system makes cleaning up after cooking a breeze, especially with juicy meats.
What Could Be Improved:
- While portable, it’s still a substantial piece of equipment, so consider the weight for longer treks.
- The hood, while functional, could be a bit sturdier for extreme weather conditions.
This Blackstone griddle is your ultimate companion for outdoor culinary adventures. It makes cooking delicious meals on the go simple and fun.
4. Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Collapsible Stand
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to grill up a storm with the Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle! This portable griddle is designed for adventure, whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just enjoying your backyard. It’s compact, powerful, and packed with features that make outdoor cooking a breeze.
What We Like:
- The collapsible stand makes it super easy to store and move. You can fold it down in seconds!
- It has a big 314 sq. in. cooking area, perfect for making up to 8 burgers at once.
- The ceramic-coated griddle top cooks food evenly and gets nice and hot. It’s also tough and resists scratches.
- Safety is a priority! The griddle top is FDA and PFAS tested, and the lid has secure buckles for safe transport.
- You get extra space with a handy side table for plates and ingredients, plus hooks for your rags.
What Could Be Improved:
- The griddle top needs to be seasoned before you use it for the first time.
This Royal Gourmet griddle is a fantastic companion for any outdoor cook. It offers a generous cooking surface and smart storage solutions.
5. WARMOUNTS 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for outdoor cooking adventures with the WARMOUNTS 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill. This versatile grill easily switches from a BBQ grill to a flat top griddle. It’s designed for convenience with wheels for easy moving and side shelves for your cooking tools.
What We Like:
- It’s a 2-in-1 grill and griddle, so you can cook many different foods.
- The large 450 sq. in. cooking area is great for feeding a crowd.
- Three separate burners let you cook different things at different temperatures at the same time.
- The thick steel griddle is strong and won’t rust easily.
- Cleaning up is simple with the grease management system and a drip pan.
- The lid helps keep heat in and protects your food from wind and splatters.
- It has handy storage compartments for your grilling tools and sauces.
- The wheels make it easy to move the grill around your patio or campsite.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s portable, it might still be a bit heavy for some to lift into a car.
- The BTU output is good, but some very large gatherings might require a bit more heat.
This WARMOUNTS grill is a fantastic option for anyone who loves outdoor cooking. It offers great flexibility and convenience for all your grilling needs.
The Ultimate Backyard Griddle Buying Guide
Ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level? A backyard griddle is a fantastic way to cook up a storm for family and friends. You can make everything from fluffy pancakes to juicy burgers. Let’s dive into what makes a great griddle.
Key Features to Look For
Cooking Surface Size
Think about how many people you usually cook for. Griddles come in different sizes. Small ones are good for couples, while larger ones feed a crowd. A bigger surface means you can cook more food at once.
Number of Burners
Most griddles have multiple burners. This lets you control the heat in different zones. You can cook delicate items on low heat and sear meats on high heat at the same time. Look for at least two burners for good control.
Ignition System
A reliable ignition system makes starting your griddle easy. Electronic igniters are common and work with the push of a button. Some have a manual piezo igniter, which is a backup if the electronic one fails.
Grease Management System
Cooking can get messy! A good grease management system catches grease and drippings. This keeps your cooking surface clean and prevents flare-ups. Look for a grease trap or a drip pan.
Portability and Storage
Do you plan to move your griddle around your yard or take it camping? Some griddles have wheels, making them easy to move. Others fold up for compact storage. Consider your space and needs.
Important Materials
Cooking Surface Material
The cooking surface is key. Many griddles use cold-rolled steel. This material heats evenly and is very durable. Some higher-end models might have a seasoned cast iron surface, which also heats well and lasts a long time.
Body Construction
The main body of the griddle is often made of stainless steel or powder-coated steel. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and looks great. Powder-coated steel is strong and can withstand outdoor weather.
Burner Material
Burners are usually made of stainless steel. This material resists rust and corrosion, ensuring they last for years and provide consistent heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Heat Distribution
A quality griddle heats evenly across the entire surface. This means your food cooks uniformly. Poor heat distribution can lead to hot spots where food burns and cool spots where it doesn’t cook properly.
Durability and Build Quality
Look for a griddle that feels sturdy. Heavy-duty construction means it will last longer, even with regular use and exposure to the elements. Thin metal or flimsy parts can indicate lower quality.
Ease of Cleaning
A griddle that’s easy to clean makes your life simpler. Features like removable grease traps and smooth cooking surfaces help a lot. Cleaning should not be a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
Versatility in Cooking
Griddles are incredibly versatile. You can cook breakfast foods like pancakes, eggs, and bacon. They are also perfect for burgers, steaks, grilled cheese, stir-fries, and even seafood. Imagine making a full breakfast for your family outdoors!
Outdoor Entertaining
A griddle is a great centerpiece for backyard parties. It allows you to cook delicious food right in front of your guests. It’s a fun and interactive way to entertain.
Camping and Tailgating
Many portable griddles are perfect for adventures. They are lightweight and easy to set up, making them ideal for camping trips or sporting event tailgates. Enjoy home-cooked meals wherever you go.
Family Meals
For busy families, a griddle can simplify weeknight dinners. You can cook everyone’s favorite foods quickly and efficiently. It makes mealtime fun for kids and adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best material for a griddle cooking surface?
A: Cold-rolled steel is a popular and excellent choice. It heats evenly and is very durable. Seasoned cast iron is also a great option.
Q: How do I clean my backyard griddle?
A: Most griddles can be cleaned with a spatula to scrape off food bits. Then, use a degreaser and a soft cloth or sponge. Always ensure the griddle is cool before cleaning.
Q: Can I use my griddle in the rain?
A: It’s best to avoid using your griddle in heavy rain. While some are built to withstand the elements, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause rust and damage.
Q: How many people can a standard griddle feed?
A: This depends on the size. A 22-inch griddle might feed 2-3 people, while a 36-inch griddle can feed 6-8 people or more.
Q: Are backyard griddles hard to assemble?
A: Most griddles come with clear instructions and are relatively easy to assemble. Some may require a few basic tools.
Q: What kind of fuel do backyard griddles use?
A: The vast majority of backyard griddles use propane gas. You will need a standard propane tank.
Q: Can I cook breakfast on a griddle?
A: Absolutely! Griddles are fantastic for pancakes, eggs, bacon, and French toast. The even heat makes them perfect for breakfast.
Q: How important is a grease management system?
A: It’s very important for safety and cleanliness. It prevents grease buildup, reduces flare-ups, and makes cleaning much easier.
Q: Should I choose a griddle with a lid?
A: A lid is helpful for steaming food, melting cheese, or protecting the cooking surface when not in use. It’s a nice feature to have.
Q: How much heat can a griddle produce?
A: Griddles can get very hot, often reaching temperatures of 500°F (260°C) or more. This allows for excellent searing of meats.
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!