Cooking outdoors has an undeniable allure, and for those who relish the joy of preparing delicious meals under the open sky, finding the best outdoor griddle becomes an exciting culinary pursuit.
An outdoor griddle is a versatile and indispensable cooking companion, capable of transforming any backyard or camping trip into a gastronomic adventure.
Whether you're sizzling up pancakes at sunrise, searing juicy steaks for a family barbecue, or crafting an array of delectable dishes during a camping escapade, the right outdoor griddle can elevate your outdoor cooking experience to new heights.
What are griddles?
A griddle is a flat cooking surface that can be utilized to prepare various dishes. It is often constructed out of metal, like cast iron or stainless steel, and is intended to be put over a heat source like a cooktop or a grill. Griddles come in various shapes and sizes, from small portable ones to large commercial-grade versions.
A griddle's flat and smooth surface provides an even and consistent heat distribution, making it ideal for cooking items like pancakes, eggs, bacon, burgers, sandwiches, and various other foods. Griddles are especially popular for cooking breakfast items because they can cook multiple items simultaneously and retain their natural juices and flavors.
In this comprehensive Guide, we explore the top contenders competing for the title of the best outdoor griddle, unveiling their features, benefits, and practicality to help you make a well-informed choice and unlock a world of delicious possibilities in the great outdoors.
Buying Guide for best outdoor griddle
Size and Cooking Area:
The size of the griddle and its cooking area are crucial considerations. Think about how many people you'll be cooking for regularly and the available space in your outdoor cooking area. Compact grills are ideal for small gatherings or camping trips, while more giant griddles are suitable for entertaining a larger group or hosting backyard barbecues.
Material and Construction:
The material and construction of the griddle significantly affect its performance and durability. Stainless steel and cast iron are commonly utilized materials in outdoor griddles. Stainless steel griddles are lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to clean, making them a popular choice for outdoor use. On the other hand, cast iron griddles offer excellent heat retention and even cooking, but they require more maintenance to prevent rust.
Heat Distribution and Retention:
To achieve constant and uniform cooking, a good outdoor griddle should transmit heat equally over the cooking surface. Additionally, it should have excellent heat retention properties to maintain a stable cooking temperature, even when adding or removing food. Griddles with uneven heat distribution can result in hot spots and unevenly cooked food.
Heat Source Compatibility:
Consider the heat source compatibility of the griddle. Some outdoor griddles are designed for gas grills, while others can be used on charcoal grills or portable propane burners. Ensure that the griddle is compatible with the heat source you plan to use for outdoor cooking.
Grease Management System:
Efficient grease management is essential to keep your griddle clean and prevent flare-ups. Look for griddles with effective grease management systems, such as grease channels, trays, or removable cups. These features make collecting and disposing of excess grease easy, promoting a cleaner and safer cooking experience.
By carefully considering these five essential factors, you can find the best outdoor griddle that suits your cooking needs, enhances your outdoor cooking experience, and allows you to create delicious meals while enjoying the great outdoors quickly.
Cuisinart CGG-888 Outdoor Stainless Steel Lid
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Cuisinart's CGG-888 Outdoor Stainless Steel Lid 360° Griddle Cooking Center is the perfect outdoor cooking companion. This sleek and stylish griddle center boasts two independently controlled burners that provide 30,000 BTUs, allowing you to control the temperature on different sections of the griddle surface for precise heat control. An oversized 360-degree grease pan naturally funnels grease to the included removable grease cup, so you can keep it clean and safe.
Similar to a traditional grill, the stainless steel lid with vent lets you enjoy a variety of cooking styles - from roasting and steaming to baking or smoking. The folding prep table also features a paper towel holder underneath for easy access to wipes, towels, and other necessities.
With its easy assembly, this griddle center can be set up in 30 minutes or less and is backed by a 3-year limited warranty. Enjoy delicious outdoor cooking with the Cuisinart CGG-888 Outdoor Stainless Steel Lid 360° Griddle Cooking Center. It's ideal for any backyard or camping trip, allowing you to craft various delectable dishes easily.
Specifications
Dimensions
30.7 x 29.9 x 12.2 inches
Surface Area
380 square inches
Number of Burners
2
BTUs
30,000
Pros
- It has a well-designed grease management system
- It comes with a lid to use for different cooking methods
Cons
- It needed a handle for more accessible transportation.
Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle
Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle
2 Burner Propane Fuelled Rear Grease Management System, 1517, Outdoor Griddle Station for Camping, 28 inch
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With the Blackstone Flat Top Grills Griddle 2 Burner, you can prepare food like an expert. With a flat-top grilling cooking space measuring 524 square inches, you can prepare a variety of delectable breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes.
Prepare anything from eggs, pancakes, quesadillas, and grilled cheese to steak, potatoes, and teppanyaki-style dishes easily.
The Blackstone griddle is an ideal replacement for your standard grill or B.B.Q. Easy to assemble, press the battery-powered push-button ignition, and you'll be ready to start cooking in no time. A removable griddle top, fold-up legs, and two wheels can easily be wheeled around your backyard or transported from one campsite to another.
A 1-year warranty backs the Blackstone Flat Top Outdoor Gas Griddle, so you can cook confidently knowing it is built to last. Upgrade your outdoor cooking experience and enjoy delicious restaurant-style meals with the Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle 2 Burner Rear Grease Management System.
Specifications
Colour
Black
Weight
1.36kg
Shape
Rectangular
Pros
- easy to assemble
- Good Quality
Cons
- It's expensive
Traeger Grills Flatrock Flat Top Griddle
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The Traeger Grills Flatrock Flat Top Griddle is the ideal outdoor cooking companion to help you explore new flavor frontiers. This propane-powered grill grates features three distinct, insulated cooking zones for precise temperature control across the entire cooking surface.
The Triple U-Burner design offers two times the burner-to-cooktop coverage compared to standard patio griddles. With the Flamelock Construction, you can lock in heat and block out wind using less propane than traditional griddles
When the grill is turned on, the fuel gauge shows you how much gas is still in the tank, so you won't have to worry about abruptly running out of gasoline.
Customize your outdoor cooking experience with Traeger's Pop-and-Lock accessories that connect to the P.A.L. rail outside the grill for convenience and storage options. The grease trap in the front left allows for easy scraping of bits and pieces into the grease keg, making clean-up a breeze.
Two large fold-down shelves on each side of the Flatrock provide essential space for your cooking needs, or you can fold them down if the hole is tight. Best for any backyard or camping trip, the Traeger Grills Flatrock Flat Top Griddle will help you quickly make delicious meals.
Specifications
Length of cooktop
33 inches
Cooking area
594 sq. in
Burners
3
BTUs
Not provided
Pros
- Premium design
- It has large, oversized shelves and a contained grease collector
Cons
- It's Pricey
Blackstone Tabletop Griddle
Blackstone Tabletop Griddle
1666, Heavy Duty Flat Top Griddle Grill Station for Camping, Camp, Outdoor, Tailgating, Tabletop – Stainless Steel Griddle with Knobs & Ignition, Black, 22 inch
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The Blackstone Tabletop Griddle is the perfect outdoor cooking companion for camping trips, tailgates, and backyard barbecues. Two strong "H" shape burners in this sturdy griddle, measuring 339 square inches, can provide up to 24,000 BTUs of heat.
The inch cooking surface provides plenty of space to cook eggs, hash browns, bacon, French toast, or other delicious meals. Featuring a built-in igniter and adjustable dials, you can quickly control the temperature of each burner for precise cooking results.
The tabletop griddle also has an innovative grease management system to simplify clean-up. A rear grease trap collects all the mess from your plate while cooking, so you don't have to worry about a greasy lot afterward.
The easy-to-clean stainless steel surface ensures your griddle will look great for years. Whether camping out in nature or hosting a backyard party, the Blackstone Tabletop Griddle will surely make any outdoor cooking experience truly unforgettable.
With its durable construction and maximum convenience, this flat-top grill will be the star of your next cookout. Grab yours today and make every meal a tasty adventure!
Specifications
Length of cooktop
22 inches
Cooking area
339 sq. in.
Burners
2
BTUs
24,000
Pros
- Portable
- Can reach high temps
Cons
- Small drip pan
PIT BOSS PB336GS Two Burner Portable Flat Top Griddle
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The Pit Boss PB336GS Two Burner Portable Flat Top Griddle is a great way to bring restaurant-style cooking to your next outdoor gathering. With a 289 sq in the cooking area and two independently controlled 9,000 BTU stainless steel burners, you can cook up multiple dishes simultaneously with precision temperature control.
The 3 mm thick griddle surface is pre-seasoned with organic oil, giving you a non-stick surface for easy cooking and cleaning. The griddle also features an easy push-and-turn ignition to start your meal quickly.
This griddle has a portable size that's perfect for outdoor camping, tailgating, or at-home use. With its black powder-coated steel construction and four adjustable non-skid feet, you can confidently cook, knowing that this griddle is built to last.
The PB336GS Two Burner Portable Flat Top Griddle also has a two-year limited warranty for your peace of mind. Upgrade your outdoor cooking experience today with the Pit Boss PB336GS Two Burner Portable Flat Top Griddle - it's sure to make every meal a delicious adventure.
Specifications
Dimensions
20.47 x 17.32 x 10.83 inches
Cooking area
289 square inches
Number of burners
2
BTUs
18,000
Pros
- Easy start ignition
- Non-stick pre-seasoned surface
- Portable size
- Two-year limited warranty
Cons
- The grease tray should be more significant.
FAQs
What is the difference between outdoor griddle and a grill?
While outdoor griddles and grills are used for outdoor cooking, they have different cooking surfaces. Grills have grates, whereas griddles have a smooth, griddle cooking surface. Griddles are ideal for cooking pancakes, eggs, and stir-fries, while grills are better suited for barbecuing meats and vegetables.
Can I use an outdoor griddle indoors?
Some outdoor griddles can be used indoors, depending on their design and the availability of proper ventilation. However, it's essential to check the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that using the grill indoors is safe and appropriate.
How do I clean and maintain my outdoor griddle?
Cleaning and maintaining your outdoor grill is essential for its longevity and performance. After each use, scrape off excess food debris with a spatula and wipe the griddle surface with a damp cloth or sponge. For cast iron griddles, avoid using soap, as it may remove the seasoning.
Instead, use water and a scrub brush to clean the surface; mild soap and water can be used for stainless steel griddles. Seasoning cast iron griddles regularly helps prevent rust and maintains a non-stick surface.
Can I use oil on the griddle to prevent sticking?
Applying oil to the griddle surface can help prevent sticking. Before cooking, lightly coat the grill with cooking oil or a high-temperature cooking spray to create a non-stick surface. Seasoning the surface with oil enhances its non-stick properties for cast iron skillets.
How do I control the cooking temperature on an outdoor grill?
Outdoor griddles may have built-in temperature control knobs for adjusting the heat output. Gas grills often have burners with adjustable dials, allowing you to control the cooking temperature. You can change the heat for charcoal grills by moving the coals closer or further away from the cooking surface.
Conclusion
Selecting the best outdoor griddle is a pivotal decision to elevate your outdoor cooking experience significantly. By considering essential factors you can confidently make a well-informed choice that aligns perfectly with your cooking needs and preferences. A well-chosen outdoor griddle provides the versatility and convenience to cook a wide variety of dishes, from hearty breakfasts to sizzling grilled favorites, all while relishing the great outdoors.
