As the weather starts to warm up, it’s the perfect time to gather your friends and family and enjoy a delicious outdoor cookout. And what better way to do it than with the best flat top grill? With its versatile cooking surface, you can cook up everything from pancakes and eggs to juicy burgers and veggies. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top flat top grills that will make your outdoor cooking experience one to remember in 2023.
Introduction to Flat Top Grills and Outdoor Griddles
Flat top grills and outdoor griddles are becoming increasingly popular in outdoor cooking. They offer a unique cooking experience where food is cooked on a flat surface instead of grates, providing plenty of space to cook various types of dishes at once. Flat top grills and outdoor griddles are versatile and can be used to cook anything from breakfast favorites like pancakes, eggs, and bacon to main dishes like burgers, steaks, and vegetables. When choosing a flat top grill or outdoor griddle, there are several factors to consider, including size, material, heat distribution, and portability. Flat top grills and outdoor griddles are also easy to maintain, and regular cleaning is essential to keep them in good condition. With these tips in mind, anyone can choose the best flat top grill or outdoor griddle to suit their cooking needs.
Definition and difference between flat top grills and outdoor griddles
Flat top grills and outdoor griddles are both great options for outdoor cooking, but there are some differences between the two. A flat top grill is essentially a large griddle with a flat rectangular surface that is designed for outdoor use. It typically has a metal surface that is heated by gas or charcoal, and it can have either griddle or grill cooking surfaces. An outdoor griddle, on the other hand, is typically a portable cooking surface that can be used on any flat surface. It has a smooth cooking surface that is heated by gas or electric heat sources, and it is great for cooking a wide variety of foods. The main difference between the two is that flat top grills are typically larger and more heavy-duty, while outdoor griddles are more portable and versatile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Advantages of cooking on a flat top grill or outdoor griddle
There are many advantages of cooking on a flat top grill or outdoor griddle. One of the main benefits is versatility. These appliances are capable of virtually any cooking style with the right accessories, allowing for the cooking of a wide range of foods. Additionally, flat top grills and griddles heat faster and are more fuel efficient than electric stoves and griddles, which can be a significant cost saver over time. Another advantage is that these appliances allow for cooking small items, pancakes, eggs, and more, that would typically fall through the grates of a standard grill. Finally, flat top grills and outdoor griddles are easy to clean and maintain, and with proper care, they can last for years. All of these benefits make flat top grills and outdoor griddles an excellent investment for anyone who loves to cook outdoors.
Types of foods that can be cooked on a flat top grill or outdoor griddle
When it comes to cooking on a flat top grill or outdoor griddle, the options are practically endless. These versatile appliances allow for a wide variety of foods to be cooked on their large flat surface, from breakfast favorites like pancakes, eggs and bacon to lunch and dinner staples such as burgers and hot dogs. But it doesn't stop there – you can also cook up stir-fry dishes, seafood like shrimp and scallops, and even vegetables like asparagus and zucchini. Plus, the large surface area of a flat top grill or outdoor griddle makes it ideal for cooking for a crowd. So whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a new way to cook up your meals, a flat top grill or outdoor griddle is definitely worth considering.
Factors to consider when purchasing a flat top grill or outdoor griddle: size, material, heat distribution, and portability
When it comes to purchasing a flat top grill or outdoor griddle, there are several important factors to consider. One of the most crucial is size, as it will determine the amount of cooking space available and how many people you can feed at once. Additionally, the material the grill is made from will impact its durability and longevity. Heat distribution is another key element, as uneven cooking can leave you with undercooked or burnt food. Finally, for those who plan to take their grill with them on camping trips or to tailgates, portability is a must. By taking these factors into account, you can make a well-informed decision and choose the best flat top grill or outdoor griddle for your needs.
Maintenance and cleaning tips for flat top grills and outdoor griddles
Maintaining and cleaning your flat top grill or outdoor griddle is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. After every use, wipe down all areas of the flat top griddle, including the inside and outside of the sidewalls and the grease trough area. A folded-up towel and a flat metal spatula can be used to scrub off any food residue. For tougher stains, apply a cleaner specifically designed for flat top grills and outdoor griddles. Regularly check the gas connections for any leaks, and replace any damaged parts. Covering your grill or griddle when not in use can also prevent rust and other forms of damage. By following these maintenance and cleaning tips, you can enjoy cooking on your flat top grill or outdoor griddle for many years to come.
How We Choose the Best Flat Top Grills
We take the task of choosing the best flat top grills very seriously. We research and analyze a variety of factors to determine which grills are worth recommending to our readers. We consider factors such as the size and cooking surface of the grill, the fuel source, the portability of the grill, and the overall build quality and durability of the product. We also take into account the feedback and reviews from customers who have purchased and used the product. By carefully considering all of these factors, we are able to provide our readers with the most accurate and helpful information when it comes to choosing the best flat top grills for their outdoor cooking needs.
Blackstone 36 inch Griddle Station
Blackstone 36" Cooking Station 4 Burner Propane Fueled Restaurant Grade Professional 36 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle with Built in Cutting Board, Garbage Holder and Side Shelf (1825), Black
Why We Love It
The Blackstone 36 inch flat top grill is a popular choice among grill enthusiasts. With its large 720 square inches of cooking surface, you can cook up to 28 burgers at once, making it perfect for large gatherings. Its four burners provide even heat distribution, so your food cooks evenly every time. The grill surface is also easy to clean, thanks to its grease management system that collects and removes grease efficiently. Blackstone is one of the best outdoor grills.
Camp Chef Flat Top Grill
Camp Chef Portable Flat Top Grill, True Seasoned Griddle Surface, Four 12,000 BTU/hr. stainless steel burners
Why We Love It
The Camp Chef Flat Top Grill is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that offers an impressive amount of cooking space and heat output. This flat top grill features four stainless steel burners that can deliver 12,000 BTUs of heat each, providing a total of 48,000 BTUs for fast and even cooking. The grill also has a large griddle surface that measures 604 square inches, which is perfect for cooking multiple dishes at once or for accommodating larger groups. The grill's grease management system is also a standout feature, as it collects and channels grease away from the cooking surface, making it easy to clean up. Whether you're grilling up burgers, cooking breakfast, or searing steaks, the Camp Chef Flat Top Grill is a reliable and durable choice for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Royal Gourmet Portable Griddle and Grill Combo
Royal Gourmet GD401C 4-Burner Portable Propane Flat Top Gas Grill and Griddle Combo, Black
Why We Love It
If you’re looking for a flat top grill and griddle combo that’s easy to transport, the Royal Gourmet GD401 is a great choice. It’s lightweight and features a built-in handle, making it easy to take with you on camping trips or to the beach. The grill has two cooking surfaces, a 4- burner gas griddle and a 2-burner stove, giving you the flexibility to cook a variety of dishes at once. Its grease management system is also easy to clean, ensuring that your grill stays in top shape for years to come. This combo griddle grill makes all you outdoor activities a true backyard party.
Evo Professional Tabletop Grill
evo Professional Series Table Top Grill (10-0021-NG), Seasoned Steel Cooktop, Natural Gas
Why We Love It
The Evo Professional Tabletop Grill is the perfect flat top grill for those who want a high-end outdoor cooking experience. Its circular cooking surface provides even heat distribution, so your food cooks evenly every time. The grill also features a stainless steel drip tray, making it easy to clean. Its compact size makes it easy to store when not in use, making it perfect for those with limited outdoor space. This is one of the most luxurious outdoor flat-top grills on the market.
Blackstone Adventure Ready 22 inch Griddle
Blackstone 1813 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Hood Portable, Flat Griddle Grill Station for Kitchen, Camping, Outdoor, Tailgating, Tabletop, Countertop – Heavy Duty, 12, 000 BTUs, 22 Inch, Black
Why We Love It
The Blackstone 22 inch portable griddle is the perfect flat top portable gas griddle for those who love camping or tailgating. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, while its large cooking surface is perfect for cooking up a variety of dishes. The grill features two gas burners that provide even heat distribution, so your food cooks evenly every time. Its grease management system is also easy to clean, making it perfect for those who are always on the go.
Best Flat Top Grill FAQ - Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Grill
A flat top grill is a versatile and convenient option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With its large cooking surface and even heat distribution, a flat top grill can be used to cook up everything from pancakes and eggs to juicy burgers and vegetables. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about flat top grills and help you choose the best one for your outdoor cooking needs.
What is a flat top grill?
A flat top grill is a cooking appliance that features a flat cooking surface instead of grill grates. The cooking surface is typically made of stainless steel and provides even heat distribution for cooking a variety of foods.
How is a flat top grill different from a traditional grill?
A traditional grill uses grill grates to cook food, while a flat top grill features a flat cooking surface. A flat top grill is more versatile than a traditional grill, as it can be used to cook a wider variety of foods.
What are the benefits of using a flat top grill?
Flat top grills offer several benefits, including a large cooking surface, even heat distribution, and easy cleanup. They’re also versatile and can be used to cook a wide range of foods, from breakfast to dinner.
What are the different types of flat top grills?
There are several types of flat top grills, including outdoor gas griddles, flat-top grills and griddles, and portable flat top grills. Some popular brands include Blackstone, Pit Boss, and Camp Chef.
Can I use a flat top grill to cook seafood?
Absolutely! A flat top grill is perfect for cooking seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and fish. You can even cook clams and oysters directly on the grill for a delicious smoky flavor. Just be sure to clean your grill thoroughly after cooking seafood to prevent any lingering odors or flavors.
How do I choose the best flat top grill for my needs?
When choosing a flat top grill, consider factors such as size, cooking surface, fuel source, and portability. Decide whether you want a freestanding grill or one that can be used on a countertop or built into an outdoor kitchen.
What is the cooking surface of a typical flat top grill?
The cooking surface of a typical flat top grill ranges from around 200 to 700 square inches, depending on the size of the grill. This provides ample space to cook multiple items at once.
What fuel sources can be used with a flat top grill?
Most flat top grills are powered by propane, although some models can also be used with natural gas or charcoal.
How do I clean my flat top grill?
To clean your flat top grill, let it cool down and then scrape any excess food or debris off the surface using a scraper. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface, and then dry it off with a clean towel.
Can a flat top grill be used indoors?
A flat top grill can be used indoors as long as you have proper ventilation. Be sure to clean your grill thoroughly after each use to prevent any buildup of grease and oil.
Are flat top grills portable?
Some flat top grills are portable, while others are designed for more permanent outdoor use. If you’re looking for a grill that you can take on the go, consider a portable flat top grill that can be easily transported and set up.
Conclusion: How to Choose the Best Flat Top Grill for Your Needs.
In conclusion, choosing the best flat top grill for your needs requires careful consideration of various factors. Size is important to ensure that you have enough cooking space, while material and heat source impact durability and cooking performance. Maintenance is also a key factor to keep your grill in good condition. From Camp Chef to Blackstone, there are several high-quality flat top grills and outdoor griddles available on the market. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, the versatility and ease of cooking on a flat top grill can take your outdoor cooking to the next level. So, take the time to assess your cooking needs, evaluate your options, and select the best flat top grill or outdoor griddle that suits your preferences and budget. With the right flat top grill, you can create delicious meals and enjoy an unforgettable outdoor cooking experience.
Some Fun Recipes for your Flat Top Grill
Breakfast Quesadillas:
Ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 eggs
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, bell peppers, onions, salt, and pepper.
3 Pour the egg mixture onto the grill and scramble until fully cooked. - Place one tortilla on the grill and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Spoon the scrambled eggs on top of the tortilla and place another tortilla on top.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and egg mixture.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers:
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
- 8-10 wooden skewers
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the vegetables onto the wooden skewers, alternating between zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion.
- Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
- Serve hot as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course.
Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. thinly sliced sirloin steak
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices of provolone cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Add the steak, bell peppers, and onions to the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the steak is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Cut the hoagie rolls in half and place them on the grill, cut side down, to lightly toast.
- Divide the steak and vegetables evenly among the hoagie rolls.
- Top each sandwich with two slices of provolone cheese.
- Cover the grill and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches!
