Imagine flipping perfect, golden-brown pancakes or searing juicy burgers for a backyard cookout. That’s the magic a BBQ griddle brings to your cooking! If you’ve ever dreamed of restaurant-quality meals cooked right on your patio, then a griddle is your ticket.
But let’s be honest, picking the best BBQ griddle can feel overwhelming. There are so many types, sizes, and features to consider. You want one that’s easy to clean, cooks evenly, and fits your cooking style. It’s easy to get lost in all the choices and end up with a griddle that doesn’t quite hit the mark.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great BBQ griddle and guide you through the important things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the perfect griddle to elevate your outdoor cooking game, from sizzling breakfast to delicious dinners.
Our Top 5 Bbq Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bbq Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to cook up a storm with the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle! This sturdy, black cast iron pan is a kitchen workhorse, offering two cooking surfaces in one. It’s pre-seasoned, meaning it’s ready to go right out of the box. You can use it on your stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even take it camping. It’s made right here in the USA by a family business that’s been around since 1896, so you know it’s built to last.
What We Like:
- It’s PFAS-FREE and NON-TOXIC, made with just iron and oil.
- The DOUBLE-BURNER size gives you plenty of space to cook.
- The REVERSIBLE surface lets you grill and griddle, making it super versatile.
- It works on ANY COOKTOP, including induction, plus ovens, grills, and campfires.
- It’s MADE IN THE USA and is a family-owned product.
- The heavy-duty cast iron heats evenly and keeps its heat.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so lifting it might be a challenge for some.
- It requires care and maintenance to keep it seasoned and rust-free.
This Lodge grill/griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering incredible versatility and durability for all your cooking adventures.
2. Griddle for Gas Grill
Rating: 9.4/10
Transform your outdoor cooking with this versatile 17″ x 13″ Flat Top Cast Iron Griddle Insert! This nonstick griddle is designed to fit a wide range of gas, charcoal, and electric grills, including popular brands like Weber, Charbroil, and Camp Chef. It’s perfect for cooking everything from breakfast favorites and sizzling steaks to delicate shrimp and teppanyaki-style dishes. The heavy-duty metal construction ensures it won’t warp or deform, and the nonstick coating makes cleanup a breeze.
What We Like:
- Generous 17″ x 13″ cooking surface provides plenty of space for all your grilling needs.
- Universal compatibility with most gas, charcoal, and electric grills, including major brands like Weber, Charbroil, and Camp Chef.
- Premium, heavy-duty nonstick metal material ensures durability and easy food release.
- High side walls help contain food and prevent grease splatters for a cleaner grilling experience.
- Integrated handles make it easy to move and position the griddle on your grill.
- Side panel cutouts promote even heating and airflow for efficient cooking.
- Ideal for cooking small items like vegetables and seafood, as well as larger meats.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires seasoning with oil before each use to maintain the nonstick surface.
- While it fits many grills, always double-check dimensions against your specific grill model before purchasing.
This griddle is an excellent addition for anyone looking to expand their grilling capabilities. It offers a convenient and enjoyable way to cook a variety of foods outdoors.
3. Utheer 25″ x 16″ Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle for Gas & Charcoal Grills – Universal Flat Top with Grease Groove
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level with the Utheer 25″ x 16″ Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle. This griddle is designed to fit most gas and charcoal grills, making it a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to grill. Whether you’re heading out camping, cheering at a tailgate, or hosting a backyard party, this griddle will help you create delicious meals.
What We Like:
- It’s made of thick, pre-seasoned cast iron that won’t warp, even with high heat.
- Three reinforced ridges help distribute heat evenly, so you won’t have hot spots.
- The griddle has a built-in grease trough to catch drippings and make cleaning easier.
- Detachable handles make it simple to move and store.
- The polished edges are smooth and safe to touch.
- It’s super versatile, perfect for cooking everything from pancakes and eggs to steaks and veggies.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires proper care and seasoning to prevent rust and maintain the nonstick surface.
- The size might be too large for very small grills.
This Utheer griddle is a game-changer for outdoor cooking, offering a durable and versatile way to make all your favorite grilled foods. It’s a solid investment for anyone who enjoys gathering friends and family for a delicious meal.
4. Victoria Rectangular Cast Iron Griddle. Double Burner Griddle
Rating: 9.4/10
The Victoria Rectangular Cast Iron Griddle is a versatile cooking tool that brings the joy of outdoor grilling indoors. This double-burner griddle, measuring 13 x 8.5 inches, is pre-seasoned with healthy, kosher-certified, non-GMO flaxseed oil, making it ready for immediate use. Its durable, high-quality cast iron construction ensures excellent heat retention and even cooking. This griddle is designed for ease of use, with wider handles that make it simple to grip, even with oven mitts. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen for cooking a variety of foods, from breakfast favorites to delicious grilled dinners.
What We Like:
- The natural, non-stick seasoning made from flaxseed oil is healthy and gets better with time.
- It’s reversible, offering both a smooth side for pancakes and tortillas, and a grill side for meats and vegetables.
- The griddle works on multiple heat sources, including induction, ceramic, campfire, broiler, and oven.
- It’s built with commercial-grade cast iron for lasting durability and excellent heat distribution.
- The wider handles provide a comfortable and secure grip.
- Cooking with it can naturally add trace amounts of iron to your diet.
What Could Be Improved:
- The medium cooking surface area might be smaller than some competitors for very large meals.
- While pre-seasoned, like all cast iron, it requires proper care to maintain its non-stick qualities.
This Victoria griddle is a solid choice for anyone looking to expand their cooking repertoire with a reliable and healthy cast iron option. Its versatility and durability make it a worthwhile investment for delicious meals.
5. 25＂×16＂ Nonstick Universal Griddle for Gas Grill
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to transform your grilling game with the 25＂×16＂ Nonstick Universal Griddle! This isn’t just any griddle; it’s a game-changer for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or hosting a backyard bash, this versatile flat top plate insert brings the diner experience right to your grill. Cook everything from sizzling bacon and fluffy pancakes to juicy burgers and delicate salmon with ease.
What We Like:
- The 2025 upgrade uses a special Physical Nitriding Technology that makes it super strong and prevents rust. It’s also a healthy cooking surface without any bad coatings.
- It comes with its own scraper, so cleaning up after cooking is super easy. You don’t need to buy extra tools!
- Raised side walls help you flip food easily, and the grease groove catches extra grease to keep things tidy. The surface is tough and won’t scratch easily.
- This griddle is super versatile. You can cook tons of different foods like veggies, eggs, beef, sandwiches, and more.
- Made from thick, pure iron, it’s built to last and easy to clean without warping. It really makes grilling more enjoyable.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the griddle is designed for most gas grills, users might want to double-check specific grill dimensions for a perfect fit.
- The polished surface is scratch-resistant, but very sharp metal utensils could potentially still mark it over time.
This griddle is a fantastic addition to any outdoor kitchen. It makes cooking a variety of foods simple and enjoyable, with easy cleanup to boot.
Your Guide to Picking the Best BBQ Griddle
Griddling is a fantastic way to cook outdoors. You can make anything from fluffy pancakes to juicy smash burgers. A BBQ griddle turns your regular grill into a flat-top cooking surface. This guide will help you find the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Think about how much food you usually cook. Griddles come in different sizes. A larger griddle is good for parties. A smaller one works well for a few people.
- Heat Control: Good heat control lets you cook different foods at the right temperature. Some griddles have multiple burners. This means you can have different heat zones.
- Portability: If you like to camp or tailgate, a portable griddle is a must. Look for ones with sturdy legs and handles that stay cool.
- Grease Management: A good grease trap makes cleanup easy. It catches grease and drippings. This keeps your cooking surface clean and safe.
- Lid: A lid helps cook food evenly. It also keeps bugs and dirt out when you’re not using it.
Important Materials
The material of your griddle affects how it cooks and lasts.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is a popular choice. It heats evenly and holds heat well. Cast iron griddles need to be seasoned. This means oiling and heating them to prevent rust. They can be a bit heavy.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. It heats up fast. Some stainless steel griddles might have hot spots. This means some areas get hotter than others.
Chrome-Plated Steel
Chrome-plated steel looks shiny. It’s non-stick and easy to clean. However, the chrome plating can chip or scratch over time. This can lead to rust.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a griddle better or worse.
Good Quality
- Thick Metal: Thicker metal heats more evenly. It also lasts longer.
- Strong Construction: Look for sturdy welds and well-built frames. This means your griddle will be stable.
- Even Heat Distribution: The best griddles heat up without hot spots. This ensures all your food cooks perfectly.
Lower Quality
- Thin Metal: Thin metal can warp easily. It also doesn’t hold heat well.
- Poor Welds: Weak welds can break. This makes the griddle unsafe.
- Rust Prone Materials: Some materials can rust quickly if not cared for properly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a BBQ griddle is a fun experience. It opens up many cooking possibilities.
What You Can Cook
- Breakfast: Pancakes, bacon, eggs, and hash browns are easy to make.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: Get that perfect sear on smash burgers. Grilled cheese sandwiches cook up beautifully.
- Stir-fries and Fajitas: Cook vegetables and meats together for a flavorful meal.
- Seafood: Shrimp and fish cook quickly and evenly on a griddle.
Griddles are great for backyard parties. They are also good for camping trips or tailgating. Cleanup is usually simple. Just scrape off food bits and wipe it down. Remember to season cast iron griddles regularly. This keeps them in great shape for years of delicious meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a griddle and a grill?
A: A grill has grates that let heat pass through. A griddle is a flat surface. It cooks food directly on it.
Q: How do I clean a BBQ griddle?
A: For most griddles, scrape off food residue with a spatula. Then, wipe it down with a damp cloth. For cast iron, use a stiff brush and re-season it after cleaning.
Q: Can I cook pancakes on a BBQ griddle?
A: Yes! BBQ griddles are perfect for pancakes. They get a nice golden-brown color.
Q: Do I need to season a stainless steel griddle?
A: Generally, no. Stainless steel griddles do not need seasoning like cast iron does.
Q: Will a griddle rust?
A: Cast iron and chrome-plated griddles can rust if not cared for properly. Stainless steel is more rust-resistant.
Q: How many burners should a BBQ griddle have?
A: This depends on your needs. Two to four burners offer good heat control and the ability to cook at different temperatures.
Q: Is a lid important for a BBQ griddle?
A: A lid is helpful. It keeps food warm and allows for steaming or baking. It also protects the surface when not in use.
Q: What is the best material for a BBQ griddle?
A: Cast iron is often considered the best for even heating and durability, but it requires more maintenance. Stainless steel is a good all-around choice for ease of use and cleaning.
Q: Can I use a griddle on any BBQ?
A: Some griddles are designed to fit over existing grill grates. Others are standalone units. Check the compatibility with your specific BBQ.
Q: How thick should the griddle plate be?
A: A thicker griddle plate (around 1/4 inch or more) will provide better heat retention and more even cooking.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!