Imagine flipping perfectly golden pancakes right on your backyard grill, or searing juicy burgers to perfection without losing them through the grates. Sounds amazing, right? But when it comes to picking the best grill with a griddle insert, it can feel like navigating a maze. So many brands, so many features – it’s enough to make anyone scratch their head.
Many people love the idea of a versatile outdoor cooking setup, but the confusion stops them from buying. You want that griddle goodness, but you don’t want to end up with something that’s tricky to use or doesn’t fit your grill. This post is here to clear the air and help you find exactly what you need.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know the key things to look for in a grill with a griddle insert. We’ll cover different types, helpful features, and how to choose one that makes your outdoor cooking dreams a reality. Get ready to unlock a whole new world of grilling possibilities!
Our Top 5 Grill With Griddle Insert Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Grill With Griddle Insert Detailed Reviews
1. Nexgrill 4-Burner Dual Fuel Gas Grill with Side Burner and Griddle Insert
Rating: 8.7/10
The Nexgrill 4-Burner Dual Fuel Gas Grill is a fantastic addition to any outdoor cooking setup. This grill offers incredible versatility with its multiple cooking surfaces and powerful performance, making it ideal for hosting backyard barbecues and family meals.
What We Like:
- Included Cast Iron Griddle Insert: This adds a whole new dimension to your grilling, letting you cook breakfast, hibachi, and more on its 280 square inches of cooking space.
- Expansive Cooking Surface: With 462 square inches of main cooking space and a 164 square inch warming rack, you have plenty of room to cook for large groups.
- Porcelain Cast Iron Cooking Grids: These grates are non-stick, resist rust and cracking, and distribute heat evenly for perfectly cooked food every time. They are also very easy to clean.
- Powerful 59,000 BTU Output: The four 11,000 BTU burners heat up quickly, ensuring your food cooks fast and gets that delicious grilled flavor.
- Convenient Side Burner: The 15,000 BTU side burner is perfect for making sauces or cooking side dishes, keeping all your cooking outdoors.
- One-Button Electric Ignition: Starting the grill is a breeze with the electric ignition, even on windy days. No more fumbling with matches!
- Organized Double Door Cabinet: Keep your grilling tools and propane tank neatly stored and out of sight in the spacious cabinet.
- Convenient to Use: A lid-mounted thermometer helps you monitor temperatures, and side prep tables give you easy access to your tools.
- Simple Storage & Mobility: Four smooth-rolling casters make it easy to move the grill around your patio or balcony. It’s also simple to assemble.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the dual-fuel capability is mentioned in the title, the specific details on how to switch between propane and natural gas are not detailed in the features, which could be a point of confusion for some users.
- The material of the side tables isn’t specified, so durability and weather resistance might be a concern for long-term use.
This Nexgrill grill is a well-rounded choice for anyone who loves to entertain outdoors. Its combination of power, versatility, and user-friendly features makes it a great value.
2. Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle W/Dual Lids & 2 Side Shelves Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Barbecue
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to become the ultimate backyard chef with the Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo! This powerhouse grill brings together the best of both worlds, letting you choose between the quick convenience of propane or the smoky, classic flavor of charcoal for your outdoor feasts. With its smart design and ample space, it’s built to handle everything from casual weeknight dinners to big weekend parties.
What We Like:
- Dual Fuel Flexibility: You get to pick propane or charcoal, giving you lots of choices for your cooking. The grill has separate cooking areas, so you can cook different foods at the same time. The U-shaped burner makes 12,000 BTU of heat.
- Spacious Cooking Area: You have a huge 327 square inches to cook on. This includes a 140 square inch grill grate and a 187 square inch cast-iron griddle. You can even cook about 20 burgers at once!
- Extra Preparation Space: Two side shelves give you plenty of room for your tools and food. Three hooks on each side keep your grilling gadgets handy. A middle shelf holds your spices and oils.
- Flexible Design: The stainless steel burner lets you cook foods at different temperatures accurately. It has a big handle on the cover, strong wheels, and wheels that lock. This makes it easy to move your grill wherever you want to cook.
- Easy to Clean: Cleaning up is a breeze. There’s a grease trap for the propane side and an ash tray for the charcoal side. Both are full-sized and slide out easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the dual fuel is great, some users might find managing two different fuel types a little more complex than a single-fuel grill.
- The large cooking area is fantastic, but it also means the grill itself is quite substantial, requiring a good amount of storage space when not in use.
This grill combo is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to barbecue and wants the flexibility to cook their way. It offers a lot of cooking power and convenience for your outdoor gatherings.
3. Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Removable Standing Cart
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for amazing outdoor cooking with the Royal Gourmet PD4001 4 Burner Propane Gas Griddle! This versatile griddle is your new best friend for camping, tailgating, or just backyard fun. It’s designed to make your cooking experience easy and enjoyable, no matter where you are.
What We Like:
- It’s super flexible! You can use it as a tall standing grill or take it off the cart to use it as a tabletop grill. This makes it easy to cook wherever you want.
- The griddle has a black hood that keeps it clean when you’re not using it. When you’re cooking, the hood can act like a wind guard to help your food cook evenly.
- It heats up evenly across its 389 square inch cooking surface. Four stainless steel burners give you 34,000 BTUs of power for perfect meals every time.
- There are handy side shelves on both sides. These give you extra space for your ingredients, spices, and plates. Each shelf also has three hooks to hang your cooking tools.
- Moving this griddle is a breeze! It has two wheels and two sturdy legs, so you can roll it easily to your favorite cooking spot and it stays put.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hood should not be closed while cooking, which might be a small inconvenience if you want to cover your food as it cooks.
This Royal Gourmet griddle offers fantastic versatility and convenience for all your outdoor cooking adventures. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to step up their grilling game.
4. Nexgrill Deluxe 6-Burner Dual Fuel Propane Gas Grill with Searing Side Burner and Griddle Insert
Rating: 9.1/10
The Nexgrill Deluxe 6-Burner Dual Fuel Propane Gas Grill is a fantastic addition to any backyard. It’s built for serious grilling and can handle everything from weeknight dinners to large parties. This grill offers a lot of cooking options, making it super versatile.
What We Like:
- It comes with a griddle insert! This 280 square inch surface is perfect for cooking breakfast foods like eggs and bacon, or even hibachi-style meals. You get even more cooking power with this handy extra.
- The main cooking area is huge, with 770 square inches of space. Plus, there’s a 200 square inch warming rack. This means you can cook lots of food at once for big gatherings.
- The cooking grates are made of porcelain-coated cast iron. They are non-stick and won’t rust or crack easily. Cleaning them is a breeze, and they cook food evenly for great results every time.
- With 6 burners, each putting out 10,000 BTUs, this grill has a total of 60,000 BTUs. This powerful heat cooks your food quickly and gives it that delicious grilled flavor.
- The 15,000 BTU searing side burner is a game-changer for steaks. It gets super hot, creating a perfect sear that locks in juices and flavor, just like at a fancy restaurant.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the griddle is included, some users might prefer to have the option to purchase it separately if they don’t plan to use it often.
- The sheer size and power might be a bit much for someone who only grills occasionally for a small family.
This Nexgrill is a top-notch grill that offers incredible versatility and power for any outdoor cooking event. It’s designed to make grilling easier and more enjoyable.
5. Utheer 25″ x 16″ Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle for Gas & Charcoal Grills – Universal Flat Top with Grease Groove
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level? The Utheer 25″ x 16″ Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle is here to help! This griddle easily fits on most gas and charcoal grills, making it a fantastic addition for camping trips, tailgating parties, or just family dinners in the backyard. It turns your grill into a versatile outdoor kitchen, perfect for cooking all sorts of delicious meals.
What We Like:
- It’s made from thick, sturdy cast iron that won’t warp, even with high heat.
- The pre-seasoned nonstick surface makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.
- Reinforced ridges underneath help heat spread evenly, so no more burnt spots!
- High sidewalls keep your food on the griddle, not on the ground.
- The built-in grease trough catches drippings, preventing messy flare-ups and simplifying cleanup.
- Detachable handles make it easy to move and store.
- It’s super versatile – cook pancakes, eggs, burgers, veggies, and seafood.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might take a bit of effort to move around.
- While it’s pre-seasoned, a little extra seasoning might make the nonstick even better.
This griddle is a game-changer for anyone who loves cooking outdoors. You’ll create amazing meals with ease, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family.
Master Your Meals: The Ultimate Buying Guide for Grill with Griddle Inserts
Are you tired of choosing between perfectly seared steaks and fluffy pancakes? A grill with a griddle insert is your answer! This versatile cooking tool lets you enjoy the best of both worlds. You can grill burgers and then flip the insert to make breakfast. This guide helps you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep an eye out for these important features.
Even Heat Distribution
A good griddle insert heats up evenly. This means your food cooks consistently. No more burnt spots on one side and raw spots on the other. Look for inserts made of thick metal. This helps spread the heat well.
Non-Stick Surface
A non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning much easier. Food slides right off. This is especially helpful for delicate items like eggs or fish. Some inserts have a special coating. Others are made of cast iron, which becomes naturally non-stick with use.
Size and Fit
Make sure the griddle insert fits your grill perfectly. It should sit securely. A snug fit prevents grease and food from falling through the grill grates. Check the dimensions before you buy.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning should be simple. Removable griddles are best. You can take them off to wash them. Some griddles have grease traps. These catch excess fat, making cleanup even cleaner.
Durability
You want a griddle that lasts. Look for sturdy materials. It should withstand high heat. A well-made griddle will be a great cooking partner for years.
Important Materials
The material of your griddle insert matters a lot.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is a popular choice. It heats evenly and holds heat well. It also develops a natural non-stick surface over time. Cast iron is very durable. However, it needs to be seasoned and cared for properly to prevent rust.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another good option. It is rust-resistant and easy to clean. Some stainless steel griddles are coated to improve their non-stick qualities.
Aluminum
Aluminum heats up quickly. It is lighter than cast iron. Aluminum griddles are often coated with non-stick material. They can be a more budget-friendly choice.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a griddle insert better, and others make it worse.
Thick Metal
Thicker metal heats more evenly. It also lasts longer. Thin metal can warp easily. It might not cook your food consistently.
Smooth Surface
A smooth, flat surface is ideal. It ensures good contact with your food. Rough or uneven surfaces can lead to sticking and uneven cooking.
Well-Designed Grease Management
A good grease trap or drainage system is a big plus. It keeps your cooking surface cleaner. It also helps make your food healthier.
Poor Construction
Weak handles or flimsy construction reduce quality. The insert might not feel secure on your grill. It could also break over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your griddle insert.
Breakfast Master
Cook pancakes, eggs, bacon, and hash browns all at once. Imagine a full breakfast spread sizzling on your grill!
Burger and Beyond
Sear burgers, cook grilled cheese sandwiches, or even fry up some onions and peppers. The griddle gives you more cooking options.
Outdoor Restaurant
Host a brunch for friends. Make fajitas or stir-fry. A griddle insert turns your grill into a versatile outdoor kitchen.
A grill with a griddle insert is a fantastic addition for any home cook. It offers endless possibilities for delicious meals. Choose wisely, and get ready to grill and griddle your way to culinary success!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a grill with a griddle insert?
A: It’s a cooking surface that you place on your grill. It turns your grill into a flat-top griddle, letting you cook foods that might fall through grill grates.
Q: What kind of food can I cook on a griddle insert?
A: You can cook almost anything! Pancakes, eggs, bacon, burgers, sandwiches, vegetables, seafood, and more are all great on a griddle.
Q: Is cast iron hard to clean?
A: Cast iron needs a little care. You should clean it with hot water and a stiff brush. Never use soap. It needs to be dried completely and lightly oiled after each use to prevent rust.
Q: Can I use a griddle insert on any grill?
A: Not all griddle inserts fit all grills. You need to find one that is made for your specific grill model or that has dimensions that match your grill’s cooking area.
Q: Will food stick to my griddle insert?
A: If your griddle is properly seasoned (especially cast iron) or has a good non-stick coating, food should not stick. Preheating the griddle and using a little oil also helps.
Q: How do I prevent my griddle insert from rusting?
A: For cast iron, make sure to dry it thoroughly after washing and apply a thin layer of cooking oil. For other materials, check the manufacturer’s instructions. Storing it in a dry place is also important.
Q: Can I use metal spatulas on a griddle insert?
A: It depends on the material. You can usually use metal spatulas on cast iron or stainless steel. For griddles with non-stick coatings, it’s better to use silicone or wooden utensils to avoid scratching the surface.
Q: How hot does a griddle insert get?
A: A griddle insert gets as hot as your grill can heat up. This allows for high-heat searing and consistent cooking, similar to a professional flat-top grill.
Q: Are griddle inserts difficult to store?
A: Most griddle inserts are relatively easy to store. Some may be heavy, especially cast iron ones. You can store them on a shelf in your garage, shed, or even on your grill if it has a lid that closes properly.
Q: What is the difference between a griddle insert and a griddle pan?
A: A griddle insert is designed to fit directly onto your grill. A griddle pan is a standalone pan that you can use on your stovetop or in your oven.
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!