Why Choose an Outdoor Griddle Grill?

Versatility:

An outdoor griddle grill is amazingly versatile. Its flat, expansive surface is designed to handle everything from pancakes and eggs to steaks and burgers. Craving some Asian cuisine? Stir-fry your favorite veggies and meats right there. How about a Mexican fiesta? Quesadillas, fajitas, and even tacos can be on the griddle. The sky’s the limit, and this tool ensures you’re not restricted by the bounds of conventional grilling.

Durability:

Outdoor elements can be unpredictable. From blistering summer heat to sudden downpours, the weather isn’t always kind to our outdoor equipment. But a quality outdoor griddle grill, often crafted from high-grade materials like stainless steel or cast iron, is built to withstand these adversities. It laughs in the face of rust, and with proper care, it can be the cooking companion that stays with you season after season. Think of it as an investment, one that pays delicious dividends year after year.

Flavorful cooking:

There’s a reason we all flock to outdoor barbecues and picnics. Food cooked outdoors, especially on a griddle grill, imbibes a flavor that’s hard to replicate indoors. The slight char, the smoky flavors, and the melding of natural aromas from the surroundings all combine to create a symphony on your plate. Whether it’s a simple grilled cheese sandwich or a marinated piece of fish, the griddle grill ensures every bite is flavor-packed.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Griddle Grill

Here are some essential considerations to ensure you’re not just getting a griddle, but the right griddle tailored for your needs.

Size and Portability considerations

One size definitely doesn’t fit all when it comes to griddle grills.

Space: First and foremost, measure the space where you intend to place the griddle. You don’t want a sprawling grill in a cramped patio, nor do you want a tiny griddle lost in a vast outdoor kitchen space.

Guest List: Do you often have large gatherings, or is it mostly intimate family dinners? While it’s tempting to go big, sometimes a modest-sized grill is more than enough for a family of four.

Portability: If you’re someone who likes to change the scenery – maybe grill on the porch today, by the pool tomorrow – then consider a griddle with wheels or one that’s lighter and portable.

Material quality

Your griddle grill is going to face the elements, and it will not be mellow.

Stainless Steel: Often chosen for its sleek look and rust-resistance. It’s easy to clean and can handle high heat. But, remember, all stainless steel is not created equal. Look for high-quality, heavy-gauge stainless steel for durability.

Cast Iron: Renowned for its excellent heat retention and distribution. It’s robust and can last for generations if cared for. However, it needs regular seasoning and can rust if left unprotected.

Enamel-Coated: Some griddles come with enamel coatings, which can provide a good balance between easy maintenance (like stainless steel) and heat properties (like cast iron).

Heat distribution

Nothing’s more frustrating than unevenly cooked food. A patch of overcooked steak here, a raw spot there – it’s not the mark of a great chef or a great grill.

Thickness: Thicker griddle surfaces tend to distribute heat more evenly, mitigating hot spots.

Burner Configuration: Look at how the burners are laid out beneath the griddle surface. Ideally, they should cover the area uniformly so that every part of the griddle receives consistent heat.

Adjustability: Can you control different sections of your griddle at different heats? This is a game-changer, especially when you’re cooking multiple dishes.

Additional Features to Consider

Grease Management System: A good griddle should have an efficient system to drain excess grease, preventing flare-ups and making the cleaning process easier.

Adjustable Heat Zones: Some advanced griddles offer multiple burners with individual controls, allowing you to set up different cooking zones.

Storage and Shelving: Handy for keeping your utensils, seasonings, and ingredients within arm’s reach. Some griddles come with side tables, bottom shelves, or even cabinet spaces.

Ignition System: An easy-start ignition system can save you a lot of hassle, ensuring your griddle heats up quickly and safely.

Lid or Cover: While not a necessity for everyone, having a lid can be beneficial for trapping heat, enabling you to roast or steam foods on the griddle.

Griddle Grill Picks From Amazon

Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle

The Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle offers 470 square inches of grilling space, ideal for a variety of meals from breakfast to dinner. It’s designed to replace traditional grills with easy assembly and a battery-powered push-button ignition, eliminating the need for kerosene, charcoal, or matches. The griddle is portable, featuring a removable top, foldable legs, and caster wheels, making it easy to move around the yard or take on camping trips. Additionally, it includes a bottom shelf and two side shelves for convenient food storage and preparation.

Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle with Cover

The Royal Gourmet PD1301S is a portable, easy-to-carry grill griddle, ideal for small outdoor events like camping and tailgating. It features sturdy feet for stability and is fueled by a 20 lb. propane tank. With three controlled burners, it offers 25,500 BTU of cooking power and has a 312 sq. in. cooking surface. The grill is designed for quick assembly and hassle-free cleaning, featuring a removable grease cup and a detachable griddle top.

Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle

The Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle is seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, ensuring excellent heat retention and even heating. It’s versatile, suitable for use in the oven, on the stove, grill, or over a campfire. This griddle is perfect for achieving a restaurant-quality sear and can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including searing, sautéing, baking, broiling, and grilling.

Cooking on Your Griddle Grill: Tips & Tricks

Maintaining the Right Temperature

One of the essential skills to master when griddling is temperature control. Why? Because different foods require varying heat levels for that perfect outcome.

Preheat Properly: Before you even think of placing your food on the griddle, ensure it’s adequately preheated. A well-heated griddle ensures consistent cooking.

Use a Thermometer: Don’t rely on guesswork. Especially if you’re new to griddle cooking, a surface thermometer can be your best friend. This tool helps you gauge the exact temperature, allowing you to make adjustments as necessary.

Zone Cooking: Here’s a trick not everyone knows! Create zones on your griddle — a high heat zone, medium, and low. This method allows you to move foods around based on their cooking needs. Searing a steak? High heat zone. Toasting buns? Low heat zone.

Using the Right Oils and Utensils

The right tools can make a significant difference in the outcome of your dishes. 

Choose High Smoke Point Oils: Griddle cooking often requires high heat, so opt for oils that can handle it without smoking too much. Avocado oil, canola oil, and grapeseed oil are excellent choices. Avoid olive oil or butter for high-heat griddling.

Sturdy Spatulas: These are a must-have! A good, long spatula can help you flip those burgers or pancakes with ease. If possible, invest in a set designed specifically for griddle cooking.

Avoid Sharp Objects: Never use knives or any sharp objects on the griddle surface. They can scratch and damage it, affecting its longevity and cooking efficiency.

Flavor Enhancements with Griddle Cooking

Here’s where the real magic happens. A griddle, with its flat surface, offers a unique opportunity to infuse flavors in ways traditional grills can’t.

Marinades & Rubs: Use these generously. The flat surface of the griddle ensures every inch of your food gets in contact with it. Whether it’s a spicy rub for your meats or a sweet marinade for your fruits, the griddle will lock in every flavor.

Infused Oils: Why use regular oil when you can add more flavor? Garlic-infused or rosemary-infused oils can elevate the taste of your dishes to a whole new level.

Experiment with Liquids: Yes, on a griddle! After searing your meats, try adding a splash of wine or broth, then cover quickly with a lid. The steam will not only cook your food evenly but will also infuse it with the liquid’s flavors.

Maintenance Tips

A well-maintained outdoor griddle grill not only prolongs the life of your equipment but also ensures that every dish you whip up retains its authentic flavor. Treating your griddle with care is part of the investment.

Cleaning

Regular cleaning is as significant as the quality of your cooking. Leftover residues can interfere with flavors, not to mention become a haven for bacteria.

Post-Cooking Ritual: As soon as you’re done cooking, while the griddle is still warm, pour some water on it. This helps lift the residual food particles. Then, using a griddle scraper or brush, gently scrub away the debris.

Deep Cleaning: Every once in a while, especially after a heavy grilling session, it’s good to indulge your griddle in a deep cleanse. A mix of water and a mild detergent can be used to scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly and ensure it’s dried properly to prevent rusting.

Under the Hood: Don’t just focus on the griddle surface. The burners, drip trays, and other underparts also need attention. Make sure to clear any blockages in the burners and empty drip trays regularly to prevent flare-ups.

Protection: Once cleaned, protect your griddle from the elements. A good quality grill cover shields your griddle from dust, rain, and other environmental factors, keeping it ready for your next culinary adventure.

Seasoning

Seasoning is an essential process that enhances the performance and longevity of the griddle.

The Why: Seasoning creates a protective layer on the griddle, preventing rust and creating a non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleaning easier.

The How: Start with a clean griddle. Coat the surface lightly with a high smoke point oil (like flaxseed, vegetable, or canola oil). Wipe off any excess oil using a cloth or paper towel. Heat the griddle until the oil begins to smoke. Let it cool and then repeat the process 2-3 times. This process will darken the griddle, creating a smooth, non-stick surface.

Regular Re-seasoning: Depending on usage and the environment, re-season your griddle occasionally. If you notice food sticking more than usual or the appearance of rust spots, it’s time for another seasoning session.

Conclusion

Outdoor griddle grilling is an amazing culinary experience. From understanding the intricacies of choosing the right griddle to knowing the basics of maintenance, we hope that the knowledge you gained will help you decide which one to invest on.

FAQs

1. Why should I consider an outdoor griddle grill over a traditional grill?

Outdoor griddle grills offer a flat, smooth surface that’s perfect for cooking a variety of dishes, from breakfast items like pancakes to dinner delights such as teriyaki salmon. Their versatility, durability, and ability to provide flavorful cooking set them apart from traditional grills.

2. What should I consider when buying an outdoor griddle grill?

When purchasing an outdoor griddle grill, consider factors such as its size, material quality, and heat distribution. Ensure it fits your outdoor space, is made of durable materials resistant to rust and corrosion, and provides even heating for consistent cooking.

3. How do I maintain and clean my outdoor griddle grill?

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity of your griddle grill. After each use, while the griddle is still warm, pour water to lift residual food particles and scrub gently. Occasionally, indulge in a deep cleanse with mild detergent. To prevent rust, always dry the griddle after cleaning and consider seasoning it to create a protective, non-stick layer.

4. I’ve experienced uneven cooking with my griddle. How can I fix it?

Uneven cooking can be due to several reasons, from the griddle’s quality to its seasoning. Regularly move and rotate food for even cooking. Be familiar with your griddle’s hot spots and ensure it is well-seasoned for an even heat distribution. Investing in a quality griddle can also alleviate this issue.

5. Why is my griddle overheating, and how can I control it?

Overheating can result from leaving the griddle unattended on high heat or cranking up the heat too quickly. Monitor the temperature regularly, consider a gradual preheat, and use different zones of the griddle for varying heat requirements. If it gets too hot, turn off the burners, let it cool a bit, and then restart.