Looking for an Outdoor Gas Griddle? Read the review below…

All the best restaurants in the world cook meat on gas griddles. First of all, this cooking appliance is ready to use in 5 minutes after turning on. Secondly, it’s equipped with 2-8 burners, so they have multiple temperature zones to cook various foods at once.

You can cook fish, steaks or burgers in a hot zone and pork, poultry, potatoes, and large pieces of meat in a low-temperature zone or keep food warm so it doesn’t get cold. The middle zone is perfect for vegetables. Finally, gas griddles are very easy to clean. So why not buy yourself one?

The list of Top-Rated Outdoor Gas Griddles / Flat top Grills:

PhotoProductBTUCooking AreaDetails
Blackstone 1554Blackstone 155460000720 sq. in.View on Amazon
Blackstone 1666Blackstone 166624000330 sq. in.View on Amazon
Blackstone 1517Blackstone 15172x15000470 sq. in.View on Amazon
Char-Broil 18952074Char-Broil 1895207440,000778 sq. in.View on Amazon
Camp Chef TB90LWGCamp Chef TB90LWG3 x 30,000608 sq in.View on Amazon
Royal Gourmet GD401Royal Gourmet GD40148000584 sq. in.View on Amazon
Royal Gourmet PD1300Royal Gourmet PD130027000325.9 sq. in.View on Amazon
Cuisinart CGG-501Cuisinart CGG-50120000285 sq. in.More Information
Blue Rhino GGC1643BBlue Rhino GGC1643B62000730 sq. in.View on Amazon
Camp Chef FTG600Camp Chef FTG6004 x 12000604 sq. in.View on Amazon
Blaze BLZ-GRIDDLE-LTE-NGBlaze BLZ-GRIDDLE-LTE-NG2 x 18000495 sq. in.View on Amazon
Blackstone 1560Blackstone 156060000720 sq. in.View on Amazon
BBQ Grill Commercial Grade Large for EventsBBQ Grill Commercial Grade Large for Events1160001001 sq. in.View on Amazon

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Gas Griddle

How many people are in the family? How often are you going to cook? Where do you plan to use your griddle, e.g. at your outside kitchen or take it on a picnic with you from time to time? These are the first questions to answer when you need to decide on a gas griddle type. Formally, there three basic types: built-in, transportable, and tabletop griddles.

Built-in griddles are suitable for summer kitchen owners or cottages with a full-sized kitchen to use during the cold season.

Transportable griddles are cooking stations with 2-4 castor wheels and/or folding legs for easy transportation. They are mainly used outside the house, in backyards, but you can also take them with you on picnics or camping with family/friends.

Note that the wheels can be different. Small wheels are suitable for transportation on hard surfaces, e.g. concrete or asphalt paths, paving stone, wooden planks, etc. If you have to move your grill on grass, soil, or gravel, it is better to choose a model with larger wheels.

Tabletop grills are the most popular. These models usually feature two burners and heat controls. Such gas griddles are compact, lightweight and can be easily carried outside for cooking.

More questions to ask yourself before buying a gas griddle:

1. Which cooking surface do I need, flat or grooved?

The first option is better for seafood, fish, poultry, and lean meat. After a few minutes of cooking on a flat griddle, a thin layer of fat emerges on the bottom which protects the food from burning, keeping all the juices, flavor, and freshness.

At the same time, large pieces of fat meat are easier to grill on a grooved griddle top. Excess fat comes out, and signature striped texture appears on the sides – you get beautiful, crispy grilled steaks.

If you are interested in both options, you can easily find hybrid gas griddles with dual surfaces. The cost is higher, though.

2. What will I cook on?

Some gas griddles can only run on liquefied petroleum gas and some only work on methane. At the same time, some models cook on any type of raw gas. You have to figure out in advance which of the options is the most suitable considering your conditions and make sure your chosen griddle supports it.

3. What is more important – price or reliability?

Gas griddles are typically made from stainless steel or cast iron. The former is easier to maintain and more durable, but the latter is more efficient. They cost less and are can keep food warm longer.

4. What additional functions do I need?

To make it more comfortable and safer to use, some griddles come with protection and electronic ignition functions. If one of the burners goes out, the gas supply will stop automatically, so you don’t have to worry about safety. As for the ignition, it makes our lives a little more comfortable. You should get a griddle with such a feature if you’re going to use your griddle more than once a week.

These are just some of the questions you need to answer before buying a gas griddle. More after the reviews below. If you are serious about choosing a gas grill, the list of models below should help you choose a reliable high-quality product.

Review of the Best Outdoor Gas Griddles

Blackstone 1554 – Best Outdoor Gas Griddle

 

Blackstone 1554

 

 

The Blackstone 36″ Classic Black gas griddle is simply the king of outdoor cooking. Four independent heat controls with four stainless steel burners provide separate cooking zones and scorching 60,000 BTUs of power for making legendary mouth-watering meals.

You can cook any meal you want on the solid steel griddle top and feed a large bunch of people or your entire neighborhood with quickly and thoroughly grilled food. Flip-up top 28 burgers or 72 hot dogs! Every party or outdoor event will become much more entertaining and satisfying with Blackstone!

Breakfasts, lunches, or dinners – this griddle can manage it all! Now fully equipped with the new rear grease management system for effortless, worry-free cooking and easy maintenance. Cook anything, anytime, anywhere!

Specifications

  • Output power – 60,000 BTUs (15.000 BTUs for each burner)
  • 720 square inches of cooking surface
  • Cold-rolled 7-gauge Steel griddle top
  • 4 independent solid stainless steel adjustable burners
  • Built-in quick igniter
  • 4 heavy-duty commercial casters
  • Propane tank fasteners
  • 2 side shelves for serving food
  • 1 tray for storing goods

Features

  • Powder-coated steel frame
  • Easy-to-remove griddle top
  • Fast ignition button
  • Rear grease management system
  • Various heat ranges on each burner (from low to high)
  • Thick cold-rolled steel evenly heated cooking surface
  • Excellent heat retention and even distribution
  • Fast and easy assembly

 


Blackstone 1666 – Best Portable Table Top Grill/Griddle

 

Blackstone 1666 - Best Portable Table Top Grill/Griddle

 

 

This 22″ model from Blackstone will perfectly fit a family of 4 (and a few friends). A cooking surface here is smaller than in the previous model and measures 448 square inches. However, it’s still a serious unit, you can call it a real powerhouse since it’s able to accommodate 44 burgers or 22 steaks on itself.

You have two H-style stainless steel burners which provide 34,000 BTUs, two heavy-duty castors, a cold-rolled 10-gauge steel griddle top, and one side shelf. Everything else is just the same as with the previous model.

The griddle is built using industrial materials (e.g. cold-rolled 10-gauge steel griddle top, commercial-grade casters, powder-coated steel frame) for durability and optimal heat distribution. This model also features the rear grease management system for cooking with no mess and easy cleanup. Cook anything, anytime, anywhere with Blackstone!

Specifications

  • Output power – 34,000 BTUs
  • 2 H-Style burners
  • 2 adjustable heat controls
  • Built-in quick igniter
  • 448 sq. in. cooking surface
  • 2 heavy-duty casters

Features

  • Easy assembly and transportation
  • Durability and longevity
  • Controllable heat zones
  • Grease management system
  • Cold-rolled 10-gauge steel griddle top
  • Powder-сoated steel frame

 


Blackstone 1517 – Best Outdoor Griddle Grill

 

 

 

And here we have another type of griddle from Blackstone. This portable tabletop model offers 352 square inches of the cooking surface to make your favorite meals without any messing around, compared to full-sized grills. You have your adjustable heat zones controlled by two independent H-burners for versatile cooking techniques and simultaneous cooking (or keeping warm) of multiple foods at once.

And don’t worry about burning anything – the heat is distributed evenly in this model just like in any other product from Blackstone. If you thought this compact griddle has no grease management system, well, that’s not the case. This model comes equipped with a grease channel to keep all excess juices and grease away from your food, providing easy cleanup after every cooking.

This griddle is quite lightweight, so you will have no problems with taking it anywhere you want, whether it’s a party, backyard BBQ, picnic or camping. This cooking appliance is a perfect assistant when it comes to cooking tender meat. You can be sure there will be no flare-ups or tasteless food. It can fit around 12 hamburgers, 16 eggs, or 30 hot dogs.

Requires a 1-lb propane bottle (not included) or a 20-lb propane tank (needs a bulk tank hose adapter accessory).

Specifications

  • Weight – 32 lbs
  • Output power – 24,000 BTUs
  • 339 sq. in. cooking surface
  • 2 H-burners
  • 2 adjustable heat controls
  • Built-in igniters
  • Integrated grease management system
  • Height-adjustable rubber feet

Features

  • Cold-Rolled Steel Griddle Top
  • Heat resistant grip on the handle
  • Stability and durability
  • Stainless steel front plate
  • High-quality
  • Low price

 


Char-Broil 18952074 – 4-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Griddle

 

Char-Broil 18952074 - 4-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Griddle

 

 

This 4-burner stainless steel griddle from Char-Broil will cook various meals simultaneously with no hassle. You can use 4 independent controls to cook eggs, pancakes, veggies, meat, hamburgers, or seafood at the same time using four heating zones of the pre-seasoned, heavy-duty griddle top (778 square inches) which is evenly heated by 40,000 BTUs for optimal cooking performance.

This durable gas griddle’s reliable construction is made of stainless steel. The griddle works on liquid propane. It has folding side shelves and a tank storage circle cutout under the cooking surface to provide unmatched stability during cooking.

The unit is convenient to use, plus you have adjustable screws on each corner of the top to allow for perfect leveling, depending on your needs or ground surface. Moreover, you will have no problems with cleaning this unit since it comes with a large front removable grease cup for collecting all excess juices and grease.

And lastly, you can effortlessly transport this powerful station anywhere you want due to four lockable heavy-duty caster wheels.

Specifications

  • Output power – 40,000 BTUs
  • 778 sq. in. cooking surface
  • Large front removable grease cup
  • 2 folding steel shelves
  • 4 lockable casters
  • 4 independent stainless steel burners
  • Weight – 119.05 lbs
  • Dimensions – 25.8 x 37 x 63.4
  • 2-year warranty

Features

  • Maximum cooking performance
  • Heavy-duty steel griddle
  • Easy transportation and maintenance
  • The heavy-duty rolled-steel cooking surface
  • Gas tank storage cutout under the griddle
  • Sturdy and stable stainless steel construction
  • Adjustable screws at each corner for perfect leveling
  • Versatility and level cooking
  • Hassle-free assembly

 


Camp Chef TB90LWG – 3 Burner Grill & Griddle

 

Camp Chef TB90LWG - 3 Burner Grill & Griddle

 

 

The Expedition 3X from Camp Chef comes with three cast aluminum burners which provide 90.000 BTUs (30.000 each) for ultimate cooking power. This is one of the most powerful units in today’s market which also comes with a three-sided windscreen, matchless quick ignition for convenient cooking of food in any outdoor conditions, and a ready-to-use seasoned professional griddle.

But that’s not all of it! The set also includes a 3 ft. hose, regulator, tool rack, paper towel holder, and removable sturdy legs, so you can move it with no hassle and have your arsenal of choice right beside you when cooking.

With a large cooking area (608 square inches), this 3-burner camp stove provides extreme versatility for cooking outdoors – you can easily match the griddle with any of the other 16” Cooking System accessories from Camp Chef, e.g. a Grill Box or cast iron Dutch oven. What more could you wish for? The Expedition 3X is a great choice if you want to modify your summer kitchen!

Specifications

  • Output power – 90,000 BTUs
  • 3 cast aluminum burners
  • Flat top griddle – 16″ x 24″
  • Cooking height – 30″
  • Cooking surface – 384 sq in.
  • Overall cooking area – 608 sq. in.
  • Over all weight – 77 lbs
  • 3 ft. hose and regulator
  • 1-year warranty

Features

  • Removable legs
  • 3-sided windscreen
  • Compatible with 16″ Camp Chef accessories
  • Paper towel and utensil holders included
  • Seasoned Professional Flat Top Griddle
  • Wind Baffle Burner technology
  • Appliance-styled temp controls

 


Royal Gourmet GD401 – Grill and Griddle Combo

 

Royal Gourmet GD401 - Grill and Griddle Combo

 

 

If you are looking for a professional energetic gas griddle to make delicious meals and throw splendid BBQ parties in your backyard, you are only one step away from reaching your goal! Discover and enjoy the Royal Gourmet’s premium gas griddle which will turn cooking into real pleasure!

The GD401 comes with a dual cooking surface (versatile flat griddle and grill) to allow your cooking to get versatile as never before! Grill your favorite food on the large cooking surface with a total of 584 square inches, using an electronic ignition system with a simple push of a button.

You have four convenient adjusting controls responsible for four stainless steel burners which provide 48000 BTUs for truly powerful cooking. The cooking surface of the GD401 distributes heat evenly and protects the food from the direct fire in each of the four cooking zones.

Folding side shelves of this griddle are equipped with hooks for your cooking utensils, and there’s even a bottle opener, which is great for every-day use or a large outside event! Moreover, you also have a removable grease cup for easy cleanup and four heavy-duty lockable casters for stability. And if you need to relocate your cooking station, you can fold the legs within 15 minutes.

Specifications

  • Output power – 48.000 BTUs (12.000 BTUs each)
  • Cooking surface – 292 sq. in.
  • Overall cooking area – 584 sq. in.
  • Dimensions – 66.5″(L) x 21″(W) x 39.4″(H)
  • 4 stainless steel burners
  • 4 heavy-duty 360-degree casters
  • 2 metal side tables
  • Weight – 100 lbs

Features

  • Dual cooking surface (grill/flat)
  • Easy to assemble
  • 4 different cooking zones
  • Versatile and portable design
  • Hooks for BBQ tools
  • Electronic one-touch ignition
  • Built-in grease channel
  • Removable grease drip cup
  • Easy cleanup and assembly
  • Bottle opener
  • Folding frame

 


Royal Gourmet PD1300 – Portable Natural Gas Griddle

 

Portable Natural Gas Griddle

 

 

The PD1300 from Royal Gourmet is a portable gas griddle with a porcelain enamel top which provides magnificent cooking experience. Three independent ring-shaped burners provide even heat from 25.000 BTUs on a large cooking surface that measures 325.9 square inches.

You have a durable stainless steel control panel, removable side grease cup, a built-in regulator for 20 lb tank, and Piezo Ignition System which makes barbecue easier than ever before. You can stop hauling those heavy and bulky full-sized grills and become a true grill master with the Royal Gourmet’s PD1300 which is perfect for your family outdoor events.

The large cooking capacity of this griddle is ideal for frying rice, eggs, hash browns, French toasts, bacon, and hamburgers. You can make breakfast in a few minutes and cook up to 15 pancakes at once! The portable design of this griddle provides convenience for camping, picnics, and other outdoor events, such as nights on the patio.

Specifications

  • 325 sq. in. cooking surface
  • Output power – 25.000 BTUs (8.500 for each burner)
  • 3 independent round burners
  • Dimensions – 25.2″(L) ? 18.1″(W) ? 9.4″(H)
  • Weight – 30.9 lbs
  • Cooking surface – 325.9 sq.in.

Features

  • Portable tabletop LP gas griddle
  • Easy cleanup, storing, and transportation
  • Durable stainless steel control panel
  • Piezo ignition system
  • Porcelain enamel griddle top
  • Removable side grease cup
  • Built-in regulator for 20 lb gas tank
  • Low price

 


Cuisinart CGG-501 Gourmet Gas Griddle Two-Burner

 

Cuisinart CGG-501 Gourmet Gas Griddle Two-Burner

 

 

Now, this model is one of the most compact appliances on the list, which does not affect its high quality in any way. We are talking about Cuisinart here, a brand that retains its remarkable reputation for years both on the US market and worldwide. It may seem that this lightweight griddle is perfect just for two, but in reality, it can feed an entire family!

So if you are looking forward to simple and versatile cooking at (or near) your home, you are looking at the right unit! From grilled snacks to breakfast and further, you can cook just about anything on the CGG-501! Its thick, cold-rolled steel cooking surface offers 285 square inches for your exquisite meals. Various Cuisineart products can be found in almost every cultural cuisine, from the US to Japan.

This powerful 2-burner griddle is designed to look perfect both on your patio and outdoor kitchen, while providing portability for camping, picnics, or anywhere else you want to cook mouth-watering grilled food. It’s not demanding in maintenance and easy to use due to convenient twist-to-start adjustment controls.

Your cooking ideas and creativity will expand with this wonderful griddle. If you need an all-in-one lightweight outdoor cooking appliance which is easy-to-handle, then this product is for you!

Specifications

  • Output power – 20,000 BTUs
  • Dimensions – 19.5″(L) x 20″(W) x 9″(H)
  • Weight – 34 lbs
  • 285 sq. in. cooking surface
  • 2 stainless steel burners

Features

  • Quick ignition
  • Convenient twist-to-start heat control
  • Thick, cold-rolled steel cooking surface
  • Built-in hose made for 20lb LP tanks

 


Blue Rhino GGC1643B Razor Griddle

 

 

 

The Razor from Blue Rhino allows you to cook up to 57 burgers at a time with 730 square inches of pre-seasoned steel cooking surface. This is a perfect cooking appliance for camping, tailgating, and your backyard, the GGC1643B features four stainless steel burners which provide a total of 62,000 BTUs of power, including an integrated Sear Zone.

A push-and-turn quick ignition system makes this gas griddle easy to light and a real pleasure to use. Grease removal is a snap with a removable grease cup. Ultra-handy legs and two castor locks make for fuss-free transportation and use at any outdoor event. Moreover, there’s a bottom shelf under the griddle for convenient storage.

You will love making your favorite potato salads, mushroom pizzas, or spicy beer-brined grilled pork loins on this convenient griddle from Blue Rhino! By the way, if you visit their official site, you can find videos on how to assemble, season, or refurbish your new griddle from the world-famous manufacturer with an excellent reputation and years of experience.

Specifications

  • Output power – 62,000 BTUs
  • Cooking surface – 730 sq. in.
  • Dimensions – 77″ x 24″ x 35″
  • Weight – 117 lbs
  • 2 locking heavy-duty casters
  • 1 bottom shelf
  • 1 drain cup

Features

  • Pre-seasoned steel griddle
  • Versatility and durability
  • Unique drain system
  • Large removable grease cup
  • Convenient bottom shelf for storage
  • Folding legs and shelves
  • Quick built-in ignition system
  • Integrated sear zone

 


Camp Chef FTG600 Flat Top Grill

 

Camp Chef FTG600 Flat Top Grill

 

 

This unit from Camp Chef provides unmatchable ignition system and increased versatility with its removable griddle top. Remove it to discover a massive grill that you can use to cook mouth-watering burgers, steaks, chicken or any other type of meat. Don’t limit yourself with breakfast only – cook anything you want on this powerful unit!

You have 4 stainless steel burners, each providing 12.000 BTUs with evenly distributed heat all across 604 square inches of the cooking surface of the griddle. Grill surface, in turn, is 501 square inches, which is more than enough for 20> burgers.

Use four red stylish and convenient adjustment controls to control the temperature and cook your favorite meals on 4 heating zones. Cook different food simultaneously whenever and wherever you want!

This cold-rolled steel griddle comes with two large folding steel shelves, propane tank holder, adjustable leg levelers, two heavy-duty locking casters, and an enhanced grease management system which includes a grease tray and catch bucket.

Specifications

  • Output power – 48.000 BTUs
  • Cooking surface – 604 sq. in
  • Grilling surface – 501 sq. in.
  • Griddle cooking dimensions – 31.5″ x 19.5″
  • Overall dimensions (no shelves) – 33″ x 22″ x 37″
  • Overall dimensions (all set up) – 62.5″ x 22″ x 37″
  • Weight – 142 lbs
  • Flat top dimensions – 20.5″ x 31″
  • 4 stainless steel burners
  • Grease tray
  • Catch drawer
  • 1-year warranty

Features

  • Cold rolled steel griddle
  • Unmatchable ignition system
  • 2 large folding steel shelves
  • Propane tank holder
  • Adjustable leg levelers
  • 2 heavy-duty casters
  • Enhanced grease management system
  • Versatility (includes a massive grill under the griddle)

 


Blaze BLZ-GRIDDLE-LTE-NG 30-Inch Built-in Gas Griddle

 

Blaze BLZ-GRIDDLE-LTE-NG 30-Inch Built-in Gas Griddle

 

 

Let there be light! Here we have a built-in model that can become a perfect cooking appliance and an inalienable piece of your outdoor kitchen, providing additional comfort, convenience, and style. This griddle from Blaze comes with signature LED illumination, so you cook even when it’s dark outside.

Discover new cooking realms with the Blaze built-in gas griddle equipped with two high-quality 304 stainless steel U-burners, each providing 18,000 BTUs of power across the 495 square inches of cooking surface. Push-to-turn flame-thrower ignition, backup flash tube secondary ignition, and cross tubes ensure a stable and quick flame for each cooking process.

A full-width grease trough with a ring-shaped cutout in the center directs grease down to a large drip tray for easy cleaning.

This griddle is ETL-certified and fully designed with heavy-duty stainless steel. Moreover, the built-in unit also comes with a stainless steel lid to cover the surface when not in use. Blaze gas griddles always come with a lifetime warranty, which eliminates any construction and durability issues.

While the ignition system and electronics are under one-year warranty after the purchase date. Just don’t forget to register your griddle within 30 days for the warranty to apply, and Blaze will have you covered!

Specifications

  • Output power – 36.000 BTUs
  • Dimensions – 12.3/8″(H) x 30″(W) x 28.3/8″(D)
  • Weight – 152 lbs
  • Cooking surface – 495 sq. in.
  • 2 high-performance U-burners

Features

  • Heavy-duty 304 stainless steel construction
  • Durability and convenience
  • Illuminated controllers for cooking in the dark (LEDs)
  • Stainless steel lid for protection when not in use
  • Large drip tray for easy cleanup
  • Full-width grease trough
  • Flame-thrower ignition
  • Lifetime warranty

 


Blackstone 1560 36” Stainless Steel Outdoor Griddle

 

Blackstone 1560 36'' Stainless Steel Outdoor Griddle

 

 

You missed this manufacturer, didn’t you? So we decided to add one more gas griddle from Blackstone for a full picture. This marvelous unit comes with a sleek stainless steel front panel. And that’s pretty much it. Yup! That’s everything that distinguishes it from the black model described in the first position of this list.

So if you prefer this kind of look, you will be a winner with this professional gas griddle from Blackstone.

Specifications

  • Output power – 60,000 BTUs (15.000 BTUs for each burner)
  • 720 square inches of cooking surface
  • Cold-rolled 7-gauge Steel griddle top
  • 4 independent solid stainless steel adjustable burners
  • Built-in quick igniter
  • 4 heavy-duty commercial casters
  • Propane tank fasteners
  • 2 side shelves for serving food
  • 1 tray for storing goods

Features

  • Stainless steel front panel
  • Powder-coated steel frame
  • Easy-to-remove griddle top
  • Fast ignition button
  • Rear grease management system
  • Various heat ranges on each burner (from low to high)
  • Thick cold-rolled steel evenly heated cooking surface
  • Excellent heat retention and even distribution
  • Fast and easy assembly

 


BBQ Grill Commercial Grade Large for Events

 

BBQ Grill Commercial Grade Large for Events

 

And finally, we have a real commercial grade monster from Rankam with 8 (!) burners and 116.000 BTUs to feed the whole army! This event grill allows you to cook up to 65 burgers and 126 hot dogs on it… At once! Watch out for the open slots though, it doesn’t come with a grease management system, so the grease will just drip down.

But who cares about that when you can feed your entire neighborhood?! Everyone will want to be your friend! Just imagine those 1001 square inches of cooking surface with 8 stainless steel burners at your service! Plus, the griddle comes with folding legs, 4 locking casters, and a convenient grill cover for safety and easy transportation.

And if you have a standard pickup truck with a 6′-8′ bed, then you will have absolutely no problems with transporting this relatively compact gas griddle! Get it for a big company to cook dinners or lunches, go camping or picnics with it, get it if you own a restaurant, hotel, country club, or if you’re in catering, sales promotions, construction sites, a church, school, fire and police stations, etc.

It’s a perfect cooking appliance for big sporting events and annual reunions. This gas griddle can feed everyone!

Specifications

  • Output power – 116,000 BTUs
  • Dimensions – 109.25″(L) x 25.19″(W) x 43.22″(H)
  • Weight – 330 lbs
  • Cooking surface – 1,001 sq. in.
  • 8 stainless steel burners

Features

  • Up to 65 hamburgers and 126 hot dogs at once
  • Fits a 6′-8′ pickup bed
  • Cast iron handles
  • Folding legs
  • Easy transportation
  • Locking castors
  • Compact design (as far as possible)
  • Grill cover included
  • CSA-certified

 


First Things to Check When Choosing a Gas Griddle

  • Features. Despite the seeming similarity of gas griddles, there are several nuances worth paying attention to when choosing.
  • Construction. Cast or assembled. This directly affects maintenance chores. A cast griddle is easier to clean because no food particles are clogged in the joints and corners, and no grease or soot accumulates. Taking care of a gas griddle, constructed of several parts, especially if there is no self-cleaning system, requires more effort and time.
  • Lid. If your favorite dish list includes only classic grilled steaks or veggies, the height of a gad griddle lid is not crucial. High and dome-shaped lids give you more space and allow cooking a whole chicken, turkey, or massive ham. In stationary models, pay attention to the high lid opening mechanism. Check dimensions in the open position and how far from the wall should the griddle be in the kitchen.

One of the great features of some gas griddle constructions is dual walls. They perfectly retain heat for a long time, keeping the right temperature inside.

When buying a gas griddle, pay attention to the warranty period from the manufacturer. This can save you money – you don’t have to buy parts that should never actually be broken. The warranty period for high-quality products is eternal, electronics are typically covered for 1 year. Some companies offer lifetime repair or replacement of their devices. Practice shows that here, overpayment for “the brand” almost always justifies itself.

  • Burners. It should be proportional to the size of the appliance. Some manufacturers are trying to attract customers by creating a large, impressive metal casing – it seems like you can grill an elephant there. However, there’s only one burner, and even that is small, which means your griddle will be full of cold zones, negatively affecting the dish.

For a regular family of up to 4 people, 2-3 burners are enough. If the family is larger or you are a friendly host who often throws large parties, we recommend models with 4 burners or more for intensive cooking of large portions of food and grilling various meals at the same time.

  • When choosing a griddle, check with your retailer to find out the technical specifications of the burners – what they are made of as well as their construction features. The most modern material for today is stainless steel. Compared to cast iron or brass burners, “stainless steel” is more reliable, practical, easy to clean, and convenient to use.
  • Note perforation holes in built-in griddles – the more, the faster the griddle heats up. Double perforation row ensures almost instant heating of the appliance and even distribution of heat flows across the cooking surface.

Keep in mind that for proper and tasty cooking, the size of the griddle does not matter. The number and power of burners is not a panacea either. What’s important is that the heat is distributed evenly across the surface. A fire distributor will help you to do this. A large griddle is only needed when you need to feed a large company.

Regulator handles are an important nuance that affects the accuracy of temperature control during cooking. Regulators can be fixed or infinitely adjustable. The second option is preferable since it allows you to choose the temperature with an accuracy of 5-10 degrees, which is ideal for a particular dish.

Another important point is the design and location of the flame сutters in a gas griddle. Those are large metal plates that prevent extra juices, grease, and salt from getting into the burner and messing up the fire. Besides, such plates serve as aroma plates – dripping juice, when getting on them, evaporates and saturates the dish with rich BBQ flavor. This design is successfully used in the Char-Broil TRU Infrared ™ and Weber Flavorizer Bars systems.

The formation of various types of dirt and contamination on the burner is one of the main, most common causes of griddle malfunctions. Want to buy a reliable appliance? Make sure the flame arrestors cover the entire burner from the top, not from the side as with some models. Also, make sure there are no rust marks on those “fire tamers.”

Besides, pay attention to the location, construction, and overall area of the fire cutters – the plates should be placed exactly below the cooking surface, not on the sides, and any juice should flow into a special grease tray.

If you are going to grill professionally, make sure that your gas griddle has borders and a tray for collecting grease. You can also try to find a model with a drain valve as well – this will make it much easier to use and also save you time on cleanup.

The construction of gas griddles is mostly quite robust. There are rarely any problems. High-quality devices are distinguished by polished welded seams and AISI 304 stainless steel hoods. However, if you live close to the coast or your climate is very humid and you want to cook outside – even such protection will not save you. It will only delay the inevitable, making the rust form three or four years later. That’s where a good guarantee comes in handy. In general, in high humidity conditions, copper and aluminum devices are the best.

Accessories for extending the functionality of griddles include side shelves, storage compartments or low tables, bars, hooks, bottle openers, dual cooking surfaces, rotisseries, woks, roasters, planchas, and additional fryers – everything that allows you to increase the range of dishes that require special conditions for cooking.

Gas Griddle Materials

If you are worried about the appearance of your grill, make sure the lid has double walls when purchasing a stainless steel unit. The exterior will not change its color than for sure.

If you are getting yourself a hybrid gas griddle, check the grill grid material. It can be porcelain enameled steel or cast iron. Many retailers say you need to clean your grill while it’s still hot. But the reality is that, at times like this, porcelain is particularly fragile – it can crack. Left uncoated, the iron will quickly rust, and if you took your griddle with a one-year warranty, you can forget about replacement or free repairs. It is, of course, clear that manufacturers need to somehow increase sales, but try to make sure that they did not do it at your expense.

Gas griddles for the cooking surface are made of different materials. Stainless steel is practical and durable, easy to clean, but the price can “bite”. Cast iron grids keep warm longer and cost cheaper. Steel grids covered with porcelain enamel need more gentle care – they should be cleaned when cooled down completely.

The design of the grid affects the quality and appearance of the meals – choose the appropriate one based on personal preferences. Ribbed griddles with distinct grooved cooking surfaces are perfect for steaks – not only they allow you to grill juicy and rosy pieces of meat, but also create a signature BBQ pattern on steaks. Flat surfaces are good for fish and seafood, grilled vegetables. An ideal option is a double-sided grid, adjustable to cooking different products. Professional chefs recommend gas griddles with wide, close rods – they are considered to provide appetizing appearance and even cooking without burning.

The burners should be stainless steel and independent. The best material for their lids is porcelain-coated steel. The control knobs on most appliances are made of plastic, make sure they are smoothly adjustable, not only “high”, “medium”, and “low” temperatures – you’ll have plenty of situations where you want to reduce the fire just a little. You will not be able to do this with three-position knobs.

The secret of comfort is the additional functionality of your griddle.

Side tables are added to most outdoor gas griddles these days. Not necessary for built-in models, but necessary for transportable barbecue variants. The shelves/tables, located on the sides of the cooking area, can be used as a cutting surface and for keeping everything you may need at hand while cooking.

Convenience can be expanded if the tables are equipped with drawers, additional shelves for spices, and hooks for kitchen utensils. An additional side burner makes it easy to cook more food at the same time.

Some griddles also have additional storage space for gas tanks, which is an indication of clever design. Some have special compartments with doors/flat panels to increase comfort, style, and convenience of the unit.

Built-in griddle LED illumination can also be a pleasant trifle for cooking in the dark.

A rotisserie is one of the most popular barbecue accessories which allows you to cook whole poultry or large pieces of meat, ensuring even heat and beautiful browning. Some models are also equipped with a separate burner for the rotisserie.

It’s important to understand that enhanced functionality (or lack of it) affects the final price of the griddle – when you start choosing your set, make sure that all the offered features are needed.

Conclusion

The latest developments, quality materials, and innovative systems make it possible to produce top quality meals with minimum effort and time. Among the undeniable advantages of gas grills are the following:

  • Time efficiency. Gas griddles heat up instantly, cook fast;
  • Versatility. An ability to cook various dishes of any complexity is a true benefit. Only “long” recipes can be a problem when you have to leave the dish on the griddle overnight;
  • Easy maintenance. As mentioned before, high-quality stainless steel gas griddles are very easy to clean and maintain. Plus, folding legs and side shelves make them convenient for transportation.
  • Price. Although gas griddles often cost more than charcoal grills, they are cheaper to maintain in the future. This is because the price of high-quality coals and firewood is much higher than gas.

If your choice fell on a gas griddle, it means you appreciate your time, comfort, and practical approach to solving household problems.

Today’s market offers a wide range of griddle models that an inexperienced buyer will not immediately understand the differences and benefits. We hope that this article helps to choose a perfect gas griddle that will suit your needs and priorities.

How to Clean a Gas Griddle

  • Part of the cleaning work is done by the griddle itself. Just heat it and keep it hot until the leftovers inside are burned. After that, it will be easy to remove dirt using a metal scraper.
  • Clean or replace grease trays regularly. This will prevent the grease from burning.
  • Heat the grid on high mode and clean it with a metal brush. If necessary, use a cleaning agent.
  • For enamel and external surfaces, use only a special grill cleaner.
  • Cast iron grids should only be cleaned by hand. Never wash them in a dishwasher!

Useful tools and accessories for cleaning a gas grill:

  • Soapy warm water;
  • Сlean water;
  • Soft sponge;
  • Dry paper towels;
  • Wet wipes (no alcohol and fragrances);
  • Tooth sticks;
  • Сocktail sticks;
  • Foil;
  • Tongs.
  • Rubber gloves will make the process more comfortable, as grease may remain on the walls of the griddle.
  • Grill brushes are essential tools that are usually equipped with steel bristles and come in different sizes and shapes.
  • Plastic scrubbers are perfect for cleaning the most persistent dirt on gas grill burners.
  • Cleaning agents. Gas griddle manufacturers usually have various special sprays in store for cleaning different cooking surfaces (grill grids, enamel, stainless steel, etc.).
  • Microfibre cloths are convenient for wiping and polishing the external surfaces of the griddle. Ideal for both stainless steel and enameled models.
  • Aluminum trays are used as exchangeable containers for excess grease. Such pallets make it easy to collect grease and get rid of it.

How to clean the grid?

Use a special brush. To prevent food from sticking as well as make the cleaning process effortless in advance, use vegetable oil and a cotton pad to lubricate the grid. If there is no brush, roll a piece of foil in a ball and grab it with tongs. Preheat the grill to the maximum temperature under a closed lid before you start cleaning. During this time the grease will melt, and food remains will burn. Turn the griddle off and leave it for 15 minutes. You can then clean the grill. Start with the grid to avoid cleaning the unit all over again.

Interior cleanup

  • Unplug the gas tank (see the user manual for details on how to do this properly).
  • Clean the grid from leftovers with a brush and spray some grate cleaner on it. Wait 30 seconds. Wipe the grid with the hard side of a sponge, rinse with water, and leave to dry.
  • Use the cleaner to spray the bowl and plates. Wait 30 seconds for maximum effect. Remove any persistent contamination with a plastic scraper. Remove the plates and clean them with a sponge.
  • Clean the griddle bowl and grease container, use a brush if necessary. Make sure that water does not enter burner tubing.
  • Make sure the grill is well-dried, put all parts back in place, and spray the griddle with a pan spray.

Exterior cleanup

  • Apply a suitable cleaning agent to enameled or steel surfaces (for enamel and stainless steel respectively).
  • Wipe the surfaces with a microfibre cloth. Wipe the stainless steel surface “along the fibers” to ensure that they are not scratched.
  • Rinse the frame/panels with warm soapy water using a sponge.
  • Thoroughly wipe housing elements dry with a microfibre cloth.
  • Use a special brush to clean the burner inlet valves.

Cold cleanup

When the appliance is cooled down, use a cold clean brush to remove any remaining soot from the grid. If you plan to grill bananas, white fish, or other light products, you can bring the grid to initial purity. Take a normal paper towel, scrunch it up, and oil it. Then grab it with tongs and apply it to the griddle surface. After that, polish the grid in the same way, using foil instead of the towel.

Cleaning the grid is a basic element of griddle maintenance. This procedure must be carried out after each use.

Gas griddle parts under the grid can be cleaned 1-3 times a season, depending on the frequency of use.

When doing annual gas griddle cleaning before the season, make sure there are no cracks on the burners and they work properly. The openings on both sides must not be clogged with grease, food slices, insects, etc. If you notice something like that, use a special brush for gas griddle burners.

Once you have finished cooking and cleaned the structure, cover the griddle with a cover. This will protect it from dust and help maintain an attractive look for a long time.

Tips

Gas griddles are good because of quick ignition and heat adjustment capabilities. To ensure that you not only cook conveniently but also get perfect meals, stick to the following tips on gas grills.

  1. Always heat the griddle before cooking. Turn on the burners to the maximum, close the lid, and the griddle will be ready for use after 5-10 minutes.
  2. Most grill recipes specify the cooking temperature for windless and warm weather (69-70F). So cook a little longer when if it’s cold or windy outside. Conversely, reduce the cooking time on hot days.
  3. The more food you put on the griddle surface at the same time, the longer it will take to cook.
  4. Always cook meat under a closed lid so that it cooks well on all sides.
  5. Always cut off the excess fat from the steaks to prevent flare-ups (you can leave 0.20″-0.24″ (5-6 mm) of fat). In the case of flare-ups, turn off the burners and move the food to another part of the cooking surface. When the flame goes out, turn the burners back on and continue cooking.
  6. Never put out the flame with water in a gas griddle.
  7. Remember that large pieces of meat (per 1 lb) take longer to cook than small pieces of meat.
  8. Use tongs instead of a fork (or any other tools) to flip over the meat – this way it retains the juiciness.
  9. Some delicate dishes (e.g. casseroles, seafood, or fish fillets) are best cooked in aluminum pallets. Any metal dishes with heat-resistant handles will also work.
  10. If you lubricate the food with vegetable oil before cooking, it will brown better and will not stick to the grill. Always oil the food itself, not the grid.
  11. If you use marinade, sauce, or sugar-containing glaze, they can burn pretty fast. So cover the food with them no sooner than 5-10 minutes before cooking.

FAQ

What is the best gas griddle?

There’s no perfect gas griddle for everyone. But Blackstone gas griddles are definitely at the top. Camp Chef, Royal Gourmet, Blue Rhino, Cuisineart, Broil King, and Weber brands are also considerable options.

What is the best flat top griddle?

Again, this is strictly personal. There are always some pros and cons. However, we would like to mention Camp Chef here.

Is a griddle better than a grill?

Well, they have no gaps for food to fall between, oiled and seasoned cooking surface, no sticking meat or fish, and the food gets browned in a truly thorough manner, faster and more even than on most grill grates. Outdoor gas griddles open up the whole world of creative cooking solutions.

How do you season an outdoor gas griddle?

You will need a damp cloth, a scraper to get rid of any food leftovers, any kind of cooking oil, and paper towels. A set of cooking tongs is a good idea as well. First, you have to clean the cooking surface with the scraper and wipe it down thoroughly with your damp cloth. Then fire up your burners to high and leave them for 10-15 minutes until the top starts to darken.

Once it’s dark, add some oil on top, keeping the burners on high. Use a thick ball of paper towel to spread the oil across the surface and try no to burn your fingers. You can use tongs or heat-resistant gloves if you have them. Make sure to lubricate all of the edges, corners, and sides. The burners are still on high.

Once it seems like the oil is mostly burnt off on top, add some more oil and repeat the spreading process. You can do that as many times as you want, however, 2-3 times are quite enough.

Is cooking on a griddle healthy?

Healthier than frying for sure. That depends on what and how you cook. Too many pancakes or burgers are never good for your health, you know? A gas griddle itself does not make any food harmful.

Are Blackstone griddles made in the USA?

Yes. Designed and engineered in the USA.

Are Blackstone griddles cast iron?

Yes. Pre-seasoned and ready to use.

What is the best griddle for pancakes?

Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle With Removable Handles is one of the best options.

What foods can you cook on a griddle?

Not only your breakfast. However, that’s the main purpose of most people. Eggs, pancakes, bacon, grilled cheese, french toasts, waffles, hash browns, burgers, sandwiches, steaks, veggies, pizza quesadillas, shrimps, etc.

What metal is used for griddles?

Cast iron, chrome steel, aluminum, or stainless steel.

Can you cook steak on a griddle?

Yes. It can be quite challenging, though.

How do you cook a steak on a griddle grill?

You will need a pair of tongs (medium size), a meat thermometer, aluminum foil, paper towels, and a timer. Take your steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to allow to come to room temperature. Heat your griddle up to 400 degrees (not more than that) until smoking hot.

A drop of water sizzling on a stovetop griddle tells you it’s heated sufficiently. Lightly brush the steak with a little olive oil and season with a little sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides just before cooking.

Cook stakes on high heat for about 10 minutes and then flip them over. Cook on high or medium-high for another 10-12 minutes (depending on the temperature) for a medium or medium-rare type of steak. You can also grill them on their sides as well.

Let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. You can also add some veggies, sprinkle some oil and spices on them, and cook on high heat for a few minutes. Then lower the heat to continue cooking.

Can u boil water on a griddle?

Yes. You can fill a glass pot with water, set it on the griddle, and wait until boiling.

How do you cook eggs on a griddle?

Crack the eggs in a cup. Make sure there are no shell chips in the egg white. Get your griddle ready. Set the heat temperature between 300 and 325 F. Pour eggs onto the griddle. Add a spoonful of water, let it bubble for a sec, and cover the eggs with a lid. Let them cook for 1 minute. Uncover and continue cooking for 30 seconds. SLide the offset spatula under the eggs and remove them from the griddle. Serve!

Can you cook chicken on a griddle?

Yes.

How do you cook hamburgers on a griddle?

Get a meat thermometer. Buy pre-formed, lean beef or bison patties, or press your patties from lean ground meat. Make sure your griddle surface is lightly coated with some oil, melted butter, or fat. Preheat the griddle to 400 F. Test if the temperature is right with a few drops of water (they should immediately sizzle and evaporate).

Cook burger patties for about 4 minutes on one side, and 3 minutes on the other side. Use a spatula to flip the hamburgers.

The temperature at the very center of the burger pattie should be at least 160 F (use your meat thermometer). Make a small cut to check there’s no red visible in the pattie. You can also cook some onions separately. Cook them for a few minutes, turn and flip them over, drizzle more butter on top of them if you want to help them caramelize. By the way, bread crumbs, whole wheat, or eggs will add stability to your burgers.

How hot does a Blackstone griddle get?

560F.

What temperature should a flat top grill be?

That depends on what you cook. 375F temperature is known to be the most optimal for cooking most foods. However, low temperatures (300F-320F) are best for cooking large cuts of red meat, pork, poultry, potatoes, etc.

Breakfast, seafood, and veggies (some of the vegetables are best cooked at low temperatures, though) are best on medium or medium-high heat. High temperatures are best for cooking burgers, steaks, fish fillets, caramelized onions. Only high griddle temperatures can make your food crispy.

How do you cook fish on a griddle?

Brush tuna steaks lightly with oil. Put the fish onto the pre-heated (375F) griddle pan and leave long enough to carbonize the steak and create the lined effect. When ready, turn 90 degrees to create the criss-cross effect. Brush another side of the fish with oil and turn over to sear. Serve.

What kind of oil do you use on a griddle?

Any kind of cooking oil. Peanut, coconut, avocado, grapeseed oils are all terrific. Olive oil and butter are also perfect for medium-heat cooking.

How long does it take to cook burgers on a griddle?

4-5 minutes.

Do you put oil on a griddle?

Yes.

How do you remove rust from Blackstone griddle?

Rust only forms at the surface of iron – it doesn’t affect the whole metal. That means if you scrape off the top layer of your flat top, you’re good to go. You will need a metal scraper, cooking oil, paper towels, a grill stone/brick, heat-resistant gloves. Put on the gloves. Turn the griddle on high and leave for 20 minutes. This will make the rust easier to remove.

Turn off the heat. Let the griddle cool down, and get your metal scraper. Scrape down the entire top, until there’s no more corrosion. Apply 3-4 tbsps of oil across the cooking surface and use a grill stone to scrub down the top. If you don’t have a grill stone, use steel wool or medium-grit wet or dry sandpaper.

Wipe the griddle clean with a cloth or paper towels. Apply another 3-4 tablespoons of oil and wipe the griddle down again. Continue pouring oil and wiping down until all signs of rust are gone. Season the griddle top to create a protective coating that avoids rust.

Any cooking oil will do, but if you can grab yourself some flax oil or extra virgin olive oil, that’s even better, as they bound more to the metal. When you’ve finished seasoning, drip another 3-4 tablespoons of cooking oil for an additional protective layer.

This blocks contact between air and water with the griddle plate – without that you have no rust! Keep your griddle safe in a cool and dry place. Use a griddle cover to protect the unit from humidity.

How do you clean a steel griddle?

You will need a griddle scraper, grill brick, cleaning rag, soda water (or club soda), cooking oil, and vinegar. You should mix 1/2 vinegar, 1/2 water and 3 drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Pour some water onto your grill to cover the whole surface and leave it for about 5 minutes. Use a griddle scraper to remove all food leftovers. Then slide it into the drip pan. Get some freshwater into a bowl.

Take your spray bottle, and spray the mixture all over the surface. Use a scrub pad to clean the top and remove whatever is left on the surface. Remove the mixture with water and a scraper and use a dish towel to wipe the surface. Use the spray again. Leave the solution for about 3-5 minutes and use a paper towel to wipe it off.

About the author

Lou Anderson

Lou Anderson

Lou Anderson is a keen home and garden innovator with over 25 years of hands-on experience in, home improvement, landscape gardening and all things appliance related to making life easier and more interesting.

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