Imagine the sizzle of perfectly cooked bacon, the satisfying sear on a burger, or the fluffy texture of pancakes all made right in your backyard. Griddles bring that delicious outdoor cooking experience to life! But when you look at all the griddles out there, it’s easy to feel a little lost. So many brands, sizes, and features can make choosing the perfect one feel like a big chore.
You want a griddle that cooks your food just right, is easy to clean, and lasts for years. Nobody wants to buy a griddle that disappoints or breaks down quickly. That’s where this guide comes in! We’re here to help you cut through the confusion and find a griddle that will be your new favorite cooking companion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know what to look for, understand the different types of griddles, and feel confident picking the best one for your needs. Let’s dive in and discover your perfect griddle!
Our Top 5 Griddle On The Market Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Griddle On The Market 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: 9.0/10
Meet the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle, a kitchen workhorse designed to make your cooking easier and more delicious. This heavy-duty, black cast iron pan is pre-seasoned, meaning it’s ready to go right out of the box. Its generous 9.5 x 16.75-inch size fits perfectly over two burners, giving you plenty of room to cook for the whole family or get a head start on meal prep.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: The reversible design offers a flat griddle side for fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon, and a ribbed grill side for beautiful sear marks on burgers and chicken.
- Safe and Healthy: Lodge cast iron is PFAS-free and non-toxic, made with just iron and oil. You can feel good about cooking healthy meals for your loved ones.
- Cook Anywhere: Use it on your stovetop (even induction!), in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire. It’s built for all your cooking adventures.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Made in the USA by a family-owned company since 1896, this cast iron is crafted to last for generations.
- Ample Cooking Space: The double-burner size means you can cook more food at once, saving you time in the kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: Cast iron is heavy, so it might be a little tricky for some to move around.
- Seasoning Maintenance: While it comes pre-seasoned, occasional re-seasoning is needed to keep it in top shape.
This Lodge grill/griddle is a fantastic investment for any home cook. Its durability and versatility make it a go-to for everyday meals and special occasions.
2. Blackstone 2224 On-The-Go 22″ Omnivore Tabletop Griddle with Hood
Rating: 8.9/10
The Blackstone 2224 On-The-Go 22″ Omnivore Tabletop Griddle with Hood is your ticket to delicious, outdoor cooking wherever you roam. This griddle is built for adventure, packing serious cooking power into a portable package. Its spacious cooking surface lets you whip up meals for a crowd, and the dual burners give you control over different cooking temperatures. The built-in hood keeps things toasty and protects your food, making outdoor feasts a breeze.
What We Like:
- It has a big, strong cooking surface that’s 339 square inches.
- You can cook two different things at once because of the two separate heat zones.
- The two stainless steel H burners provide a powerful 24,000 BTUs of heat.
- It comes with a cool, classic-looking hood to help you cook and keep food warm.
- The bright orange handle on the hood is easy to see and grip.
- It’s designed to be taken with you, perfect for camping or tailgating.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s portable, it can still be a bit heavy to carry long distances.
- The fuel tank connection might require a specific adapter for some users.
- Cleaning the griddle can take some time after cooking.
Overall, the Blackstone 2224 On-The-Go griddle offers fantastic cooking versatility and power in a portable design. It’s a solid choice for anyone who loves to grill and wants to do it outside their home.
3. Blackstone 22” On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle with Two Burners -Stainless Steel Gas Griddle with Hood
Rating: 8.9/10
The Blackstone 22” On The Go Scissor-Leg Griddle with Two Burners is your ultimate companion for outdoor cooking adventures. This sturdy stainless steel griddle makes it easy to whip up delicious meals anywhere your travels take you, from backyard barbecues to campsite cookouts. Its smart design ensures convenience and versatility, letting you focus on the fun of cooking and enjoying your food.
What We Like:
- The “Roll and Go” scissor leg design makes it super easy to move and set up.
- It folds down into a handy cart for simple transportation.
- A spacious side shelf keeps your cooking area organized and your tools within reach.
- The large handle helps you fold and unfold the griddle with ease.
- Its 22-inch cooking surface is big enough to cook a variety of foods, from breakfast favorites to hearty dinners.
- Two burners with separate controls let you cook different items at the same time and keep food warm.
- The patented rear grease management system makes cleaning up after cooking a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for portability, it is still a heavy-duty griddle and might be a bit cumbersome for some to lift alone.
- The stainless steel, while durable, can show fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular wiping to maintain its shine.
This Blackstone griddle truly brings the convenience of a professional kitchen to your outdoor excursions. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who loves to cook and explore.
4. LITTLE GRIDDLE Sizzle-Q SQ180 100% Stainless Steel Universal Griddle with Even Heating Cross Bracing for Charcoal/Gas Grills
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to transform your grilling game with the LITTLE GRIDDLE Sizzle-Q SQ180. This 100% stainless steel griddle is your new best friend for everything from backyard BBQs to camping trips and tailgating adventures. Its smart design and durable build make cooking outdoors a breeze, giving you more time to enjoy the fun.
What We Like:
- Built tough with 100% restaurant-grade stainless steel for lasting use.
- Keeps flare-ups under control with a special grease trough, making grilling cleaner.
- Mess-free cooking is easy thanks to the raised side walls that stop spills.
- Cooks food evenly everywhere on the griddle for perfect results every time.
- Fits most gas grills, so you can use it for camping, parties, or tailgating.
- Its 18″x13″x3″ size is just right for many grill setups.
What Could Be Improved:
- While versatile, it does add extra weight to transport for camping or tailgating.
- Requires preheating for best even-heating results.
The Little Griddle Sizzle-Q SQ180 is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to grill. It makes cooking outdoors easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable.
5. Grill Light Designed for Blackstone Griddle & Weber Grill
Rating: 8.6/10
This Grill Light is designed to make your grilling experience better. It fits most griddles and grills, including popular brands like Blackstone and Weber. Its automatic on/off feature means it lights up when you open your grill lid and turns off when you close it. This handy light helps you see your food clearly, ensuring perfect cooking every time.
What We Like:
- It fits many different grills and griddles with its included brackets.
- It’s much brighter than other grill lights because it has two LED lights.
- You can choose between automatic on/off or constant light, and there are two brightness levels.
- It’s easy to install and use, and you can even detach it to use as a flashlight.
- It’s built tough for outdoor use, with waterproof features and it’s heat resistant.
- It helps you cook food perfectly by letting you see it clearly.
- It makes a fantastic gift for any grill lover or dad.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is not suitable for PIT BOSS grills or some smoker grills.
This grill light is a smart addition for any outdoor cook. It offers convenience, brightness, and durability, making it a must-have accessory for anyone who loves to grill.
Your Guide to the Perfect Griddle
Are you ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level? A griddle can be your new best friend for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From fluffy pancakes to perfectly seared burgers, a griddle offers a huge cooking surface for all your favorites. This guide will help you pick the right griddle for your backyard adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
Size Matters
Griddles come in different sizes. Think about how many people you usually cook for. A smaller griddle is good for a few people. A larger one is better for parties or big families. Some griddles are portable, perfect for camping or tailgating.
Heat Control
Good heat control is super important. You want to be able to adjust the heat to cook different foods perfectly. Some griddles have multiple burners, which lets you cook at different temperatures at the same time. This is great for cooking bacon and eggs together.
Easy Cleanup
Nobody likes a tough cleanup. Look for griddles with grease traps or channels. These help catch grease and make it easier to wipe down. A non-stick surface also helps a lot.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to move your griddle around, check if it has wheels. Some griddles fold up for easy storage. This is helpful if you have limited space.
2. Important Materials
Cooking Surface
Most griddles have a flat cooking surface made of steel. Some have a special coating, like cast iron or chrome. Cast iron is known for its durability and even heating. Chrome surfaces are often non-stick but can scratch.
Frame and Legs
The frame and legs are usually made of steel. Look for sturdy materials that can hold the griddle’s weight and stand up to outdoor weather. Powder-coated steel is a good choice because it resists rust.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Thickness of the Griddle Plate
A thicker griddle plate heats up more evenly. It also holds heat better, which means your food cooks more consistently. Thin plates can get hot spots, leading to uneven cooking.
Burner Design
Better burner designs provide even heat distribution across the entire griddle surface. This prevents cold spots where food might not cook properly. Some burners are designed to be very efficient, using less fuel.
Construction Quality
Look for griddles with solid welds and strong connections. Cheaply made griddles might rust quickly or have parts that break easily. A well-built griddle will last longer and perform better.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Versatility
Griddles are super versatile. You can cook almost anything on them! Make pancakes and bacon for breakfast. Grill burgers and hot dogs for lunch. Cook stir-fries or fajitas for dinner. They are also great for searing steaks.
Ease of Use
Many griddles are simple to start and use. Just connect your propane tank, turn the knob, and light it up. The large surface makes it easy to flip food and manage multiple items at once.
Outdoor Fun
A griddle is perfect for backyard BBQs, camping trips, or even just a quick meal on the patio. It brings people together and makes cooking outdoors a breeze.
Choosing the right griddle depends on your needs and budget. Consider these points, and you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best material for a griddle top?
A: Cast iron is a very popular choice because it heats evenly and lasts a long time. Stainless steel and chrome are also used.
Q: How many burners do I need?
A: For most people, two to four burners are enough. More burners give you more control over different cooking temperatures.
Q: Can I use a griddle indoors?
A: No, griddles are designed for outdoor use only due to the fuel source and potential for smoke.
Q: How do I clean my griddle?
A: Most griddles can be cleaned by scraping off food bits while warm and then wiping down with a damp cloth. Some have removable grease trays for easier cleaning.
Q: Are griddles hard to assemble?
A: Most griddles come with clear instructions and are not too difficult to assemble. Some might require a few basic tools.
Q: What kind of fuel do griddles use?
A: The most common fuel source is propane. Some larger models might be designed for natural gas.
Q: Can I cook delicate foods like fish on a griddle?
A: Yes, you can. Just make sure the griddle is properly seasoned or oiled, and use a good spatula for flipping.
Q: How long does a griddle typically last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a good quality griddle can last for many years.
Q: What is a “seasoned” griddle?
A: A seasoned griddle has a layer of oil baked onto the cooking surface. This helps prevent food from sticking and protects the metal from rust.
Q: Is a griddle better than a grill?
A: It depends on what you like to cook! A griddle is great for smaller items and a flat-top cooking experience, while a grill is better for smoky flavors and char marks.
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!