Imagine this: you’re craving perfectly seared steak on one side of your cooking surface and fluffy pancakes on the other, all at the same time. Sounds like a dream, right? For many home cooks, achieving this culinary versatility can feel like a juggling act. The world of outdoor cooking is vast, and when you start looking at grill and griddle combos, the choices can quickly become overwhelming.
You want that smoky char from a grill, but you also love the even heat and crispiness a griddle provides for everything from breakfast to stir-fry. The problem is, how do you find the one that truly does it all without taking up your entire backyard? Navigating the different features, sizes, and fuel types can be a real headache. You don’t want to end up with a unit that misses the mark on either grilling or griddling.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a great grill and griddle combo, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to get the most out of yours. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of these amazing cooking machines and feel confident picking the perfect one for your outdoor kitchen. Let’s dive into the fantastic world of dual-purpose cooking!
Our Top 5 Grill And Griddle Combo Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Grill And Griddle Combo Detailed Reviews
1. Dual Fuel Outdoor Grill Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Grates – Flat Top Griddle & Charcoal Options for Backyard Cooking (Grill and Griddle Combo)
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready for amazing backyard BBQs with this versatile Dual Fuel Outdoor Grill Combo! It’s designed to handle all your cooking needs, whether you’re grilling juicy steaks or flipping pancakes. This grill lets you cook different foods at the same time, making it super convenient for parties.
What We Like:
- Dual-Zone Grilling: Cook two things at once! You get 696 square inches of cooking space. That includes a 443 square inch grill and a 253 square inch griddle. You can sear meat on high heat and cook veggies on the flat top at the same time.
- Powerful Heat: The grill has 54,000 BTUs. This means it heats up fast and cooks evenly. It heats up 40% faster than regular propane grills.
- Easy Cleanup: Cleaning is a breeze! A slide-out grease tray catches drippings. The griddle has raised edges to stop oil from spilling. Just wipe it down after you’re done.
- Built to Last: The grill is made of strong steel. It’s built to handle different weather. It also has sturdy legs that can hold over 150 pounds.
- Handy Extras: It comes with a bamboo cutting board and tool hooks. You can easily store your grilling tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- The propane tank is not included. You’ll need to buy a standard 20-lb propane tank separately.
This grill combo offers fantastic flexibility for any outdoor cook. It makes backyard cooking fun and easy for everyone.
2. Royal Gourmet GD403 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo with Folding Legs
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for amazing outdoor meals with the Royal Gourmet GD403 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo. This grill is a game-changer for anyone who loves cooking outside, whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just enjoying your backyard. Its clever design offers two ways to cook: a smooth griddle perfect for breakfast foods and a sturdy grate for grilling your favorite meats. Plus, it’s built for easy transport, making it your go-to cooking companion for any adventure.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: You can fry pancakes on the griddle and grill burgers at the same time. The ceramic-coated griddle is great for delicate foods like eggs. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates handle hearty meals like steaks and ribs.
- Powerful Heat: Four burners provide a total of 48,000 BTUs, meaning you can cook quickly and control the temperature easily.
- Super Portable: The folding legs make it simple to pack this grill into your car. It’s perfect for taking on camping trips or to football games.
- Handy Features: It includes a paper towel holder and tool hooks to keep your cooking area neat. A detachable wind deflector helps protect your food from wind and grease splatters.
- Easy Start: The automatic ignition gets you cooking fast. Just push and turn the knobs, and you’ll have a flame right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- While portability is a big plus, the overall size might be a consideration for very small vehicles.
- The 48,000 BTUs are powerful, but users might want to ensure they have enough propane for extended cooking sessions.
The Royal Gourmet GD403 is a fantastic option for versatile outdoor cooking. It offers a great balance of features and portability for any adventure.
3. Blackstone 17 Inch Grill and Griddle Tailgater on the Go Combo 1550
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for amazing outdoor meals with the Blackstone 17 Inch Grill and Griddle Tailgater on the Go Combo 1550. This portable flat-top grill is your new best friend for tailgating, camping, or just backyard fun. It’s designed to make cooking easy and enjoyable, no matter where you are.
What We Like:
- The spacious cooking surface lets you prepare a feast. You can even use the side table to keep your cooking tools and spices handy. Everything stays organized and within reach.
- It offers dual cooking areas! You get both a BBQ grill and a breakfast griddle. Each has adjustable heat, so you can cook burgers, pancakes, and so much more.
- The Blackstone Griddle Lid is a game-changer. It helps your food cook evenly and protects the griddle from the weather. The bright orange handle stays cool, so you won’t burn your hand.
- Clean-up is a breeze thanks to the no grease mess design. Extra grease drains into a cup at the back, keeping your cooking area tidy.
- The included Blackstone Griddle Seasoning and Conditioner helps create that perfect non-stick surface. It makes your food taste better and keeps your griddle in great shape for years.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s portable, some users might find it a bit heavy to carry long distances.
- The availability of this popular combo can sometimes be limited, so you might need to act fast when you see it.
This Blackstone combo makes outdoor cooking simple and fun. It’s a versatile and well-designed grill that delivers delicious results every time.
4. Captiva Designs Propane Gas Griddle Grill Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate & Cast Iron Pan
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to become the backyard barbecue master with the Captiva Designs Propane Gas Griddle Grill Combo! This versatile grill lets you cook up all your favorites, from juicy burgers to perfectly seared veggies, all in one place. It’s designed for fun, flavor, and easy outdoor cooking for any gathering.
What We Like:
- It’s a two-in-one wonder! You can grill and griddle at the same time, so you can make burgers and sauté onions for everyone.
- It has a huge cooking space – 696 square inches in total. That’s plenty of room for big parties.
- Cleaning up after cooking is a breeze thanks to the special grease tray and waste oil cup.
- It heats up fast and cooks evenly with its 54,000 BTU burners, making sure your food is cooked just right.
- The enameled fire chamber looks great and protects the grill from rust, so it will last a long time.
- Captiva Designs offers helpful customer service if you have any questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions a “tilt” for the grease tray, but doesn’t specify how much of a tilt.
- While the customer service is praised, the response time is stated as “within 24 hours,” which might be a bit slow for urgent issues.
This Captiva Designs grill combo offers a fantastic way to enjoy outdoor cooking with its flexibility and large capacity. It’s a solid choice for anyone who loves to grill and wants an easy-to-manage cooking experience.
5. Brand-Man Griddle Grill Combo 6-Burner
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to become the ultimate backyard chef with the Brand-Man Griddle Grill Combo! This amazing 2-in-1 propane gas grill and griddle lets you cook everything from sizzling steaks to perfectly sautéed veggies. It’s designed for all your outdoor cooking adventures, making every meal a hit.
What We Like:
- Super versatile: Grill and griddle at the same time!
- Cook different foods easily with separate temperature controls.
- Huge 678 sq.in. cooking space for big gatherings.
- Smart design: A condiment station and fold-out shelves keep everything organized.
- Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the slide-out grease tray.
- Powerful 60,000 BTUs for even cooking.
- Easy to move around with sturdy wheels.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sheer size might be a bit much for very small patios.
- While versatile, mastering both grill and griddle at once might take a little practice.
This Brand-Man Griddle Grill Combo truly offers fantastic cooking flexibility and convenience. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any backyard barbecue, making outdoor cooking fun and delicious.
Your Guide to Picking the Perfect Grill and Griddle Combo
Why Choose a Grill and Griddle Combo?
Do you love burgers but also crave perfectly seared steaks? A grill and griddle combo is your answer. This versatile appliance lets you cook almost anything. You can grill juicy burgers and then flip some pancakes. It’s great for outdoor parties or even weeknight dinners.
Key Features to Look For
Even Heat Distribution
Good combos spread heat evenly. This means no hot spots. Your food cooks consistently. Look for models with good burner design.
Independent Controls
Separate knobs for the grill and griddle are a big plus. You can set different temperatures. This lets you cook different foods at once. For example, grill chicken on one side and cook veggies on the other.
Size and Cooking Space
Think about how much food you cook. Families need more space. Small apartments might need a more compact model. Check the total cooking area.
Ease of Cleaning
Nobody likes a tough cleanup. Look for removable grease trays. Non-stick griddle surfaces make cleaning easier. Some parts might be dishwasher safe.
Durability and Build Quality
A well-built combo lasts longer. Sturdy materials are important. It should feel solid and stable.
Important Materials
Stainless Steel
Many good combos use stainless steel. It’s strong and resists rust. It also looks good. Stainless steel grates are common on the grill side.
Cast Iron
Cast iron griddles are excellent. They heat up well and hold heat. This gives food a great sear. Cast iron needs a little more care to prevent rust.
Aluminum
Some griddles are made of aluminum. They heat up fast. Aluminum is lighter. Make sure it has a good non-stick coating.
Chrome
Chrome-plated griddles are also an option. They are affordable. However, the coating can wear off over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Combo Great
- Thicker Metal: Thicker metal parts tend to last longer. They also heat more evenly.
- Solid Construction: A sturdy frame and well-attached parts mean a better quality product.
- Good Burner Design: Efficient burners deliver consistent heat.
- Quality Coating: A durable non-stick coating on the griddle is a big quality booster.
What Can Make a Combo Less Than Ideal
- Thin Metal: Thin metal can warp with heat. It also heats unevenly.
- Flimsy Parts: Weak handles or legs can break easily.
- Poor Burners: Inconsistent heat from burners leads to uneven cooking.
- Cheap Coatings: Coatings that scratch or peel off quickly reduce the griddle’s usefulness.
User Experience and Use Cases
A grill and griddle combo offers many ways to cook. You can host backyard barbecues. Grill burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. Use the griddle for breakfast. Make pancakes, eggs, and bacon. It’s perfect for camping trips too. Many are portable. You can even use them indoors if they are electric. Think about what you want to cook most. This will help you choose the right combo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Grill and Griddle Combos
Q: What is a grill and griddle combo?
A: It’s an appliance that has both a grilling surface and a flat griddle surface. This lets you grill and fry foods at the same time.
Q: What are the main benefits of a combo?
A: The main benefits are versatility and convenience. You can cook many different foods in one place. It saves space compared to having separate grill and griddle appliances.
Q: What kind of fuel do they use?
A: They commonly use propane gas. Some smaller or electric models are also available.
Q: Are they easy to clean?
A: Most are designed with cleaning in mind. Look for removable grease trays and non-stick surfaces. Cleaning is usually easier than with a traditional grill.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on the griddle?
A: It depends on the griddle’s surface. If it has a non-stick coating, it’s best to use plastic or silicone utensils to avoid scratching. Cast iron griddles can usually handle metal.
Q: How much cooking space should I look for?
A: This depends on how many people you usually cook for. A family of four might need at least 300-400 square inches of total cooking space.
Q: Are grill and griddle combos good for camping?
A: Yes, many portable models are excellent for camping. They offer a way to cook a variety of meals outdoors.
Q: What’s the difference between a flat-top griddle and a grill?
A: A flat-top griddle is a smooth, solid surface. It’s great for searing, frying, and cooking smaller items. A grill has grates. It allows heat to circulate and gives food grill marks.
Q: How do I maintain my grill and griddle combo?
A: Clean it after each use. Season cast iron griddles regularly. Keep it covered when not in use to protect it from the weather.
Q: Can I cook seafood on a grill and griddle combo?
A: Absolutely! The griddle side is perfect for delicate seafood like shrimp or fish fillets. The grill side can be used for larger items like fish steaks.
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!