Best Griddle for Weber Kettle – Do You Need One?

Grilling enthusiasts understand the unparalleled joy of cooking outdoors. And when it comes to classic grilling, the Weber Kettle is an iconic choice. But did you know that you can take your Weber Kettle to the next level by adding a griddle?

In this guide, we’ll explore the best griddles for your Weber Kettle, transforming it into a versatile outdoor cooking station.

Why Add a Griddle to Your Weber Kettle?

Before diving into the griddle options, let’s understand why a griddle is an excellent addition to your Weber Kettle:

1. Expanded Cooking Options: While the Weber Kettle is fantastic for grilling, a griddle offers versatility. You can cook breakfast items like pancakes and eggs, stir-fry vegetables, sear steaks, or even make smash burgers – all on the same grill.
2. Even Heat Distribution: Griddles provide even heat distribution, preventing hot spots and ensuring consistent cooking. This is especially crucial when cooking delicate foods like fish or vegetables.
3. Outdoor Cooking Fun: Griddle cooking on your Weber Kettle isn’t just about food; it’s about the experience. Gather friends and family around, enjoy the fresh air, and savor the delicious results.

What is the Best Griddle for Weber Kettle?

The best griddle for a Weber Kettle grill can depend on your specific needs and preferences, but here are a few options that are well-regarded by grilling enthusiasts:

1. Weber 7421 Gourmet BBQ System Griddle:
   • Designed specifically for Weber Kettle grills as part of the Gourmet BBQ System.
   • Made of porcelain-enameled cast iron, which provides excellent heat retention and distribution.
   • Fits into the center of your Weber Kettle, replacing the standard grill grate, so it’s a perfect fit.
2. Little Griddle GQ230 – Professional Quality Griddle:
   • A stainless steel professional-grade griddle.
   • Offers a generous cooking area (17″ x 13″) and even heating.
   • Features a grease well to catch drippings and prevent flare-ups.
3. Blackstone Tabletop Griddle:
   • While not designed exclusively for Weber Kettles, it’s a versatile and portable griddle.
   • Made of rolled carbon steel and offers a sizeable cooking surface (17″ x 15.25″).
   • You can place it on your Weber Kettle’s cooking grate for added versatility.
4. Sizzle-Q SQ180 Universal Griddle:
   • A stainless steel griddle that is versatile and fits many grill models, including Weber Kettles.
   • Features sidewalls to keep food contained and has a generous cooking area (18″ x 13″).

The best griddle for your Weber Kettle depends on factors like the type of cooking you want to do, the size of your grill, and your budget. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the one that’s right for you.

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Can I put a griddle on my Weber grill?

Yes, you can put a griddle on your Weber grill, including Weber Kettle grills, to expand your cooking options. There are a few ways to do this:

1. Weber Gourmet BBQ System Griddle: If you have a Weber Kettle grill, Weber offers a specific griddle called the Weber 7421 Gourmet BBQ System Griddle that is designed to fit perfectly into the center of your Weber Kettle. It replaces the standard grill grate and provides a flat surface for griddling.
2. Universal Griddles: There are universal griddles available that can be used on a variety of grill types, including Weber grills. These griddles are typically made of materials like cast iron or stainless steel. You can place them directly on the grill grates.
3. Placing a Griddle Pan: Another option is to place a griddle pan or skillet directly on the grill grates. While this doesn’t provide as much cooking surface as a full griddle, it can still work well for griddling smaller quantities of food.

When using a griddle on your Weber grill, make sure it’s properly preheated before adding food to ensure even cooking. Additionally, consider using high-heat cooking oil or butter to prevent sticking, and be mindful of the temperature settings to achieve the desired results. Griddling is a versatile cooking method that can be used for items like pancakes, eggs, vegetables, and more on your Weber grill.

Can you use a griddle on a charcoal grill?

Yes, you can use a griddle on a charcoal grill. Griddling on a charcoal grill is a versatile cooking method that allows you to cook a variety of foods, from breakfast items like pancakes and eggs to vegetables, seafood, and even steaks. Here’s how you can do it:

Materials Needed

1. Griddle: You can use a griddle pan, griddle plate, or a cast iron griddle. Ensure that the griddle is of an appropriate size for your grill.
2. Charcoal Grill: Make sure your charcoal grill is clean and in good working condition.
3. Charcoal: You’ll need charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal for fuel.
4. Chimney Starter: To light the charcoal.
5. Fireplace Gloves or Heat-Resistant Gloves: For safety when handling hot grates and griddle.

Steps

1. Prepare your charcoal grill: Clean the grill grates and ensure they are in good condition. You’ll want a clean and well-maintained grill for even cooking.
2. Light the charcoal: Use a chimney starter to light your charcoal. Once the coals are ashed over and hot, carefully pour them onto one side of the grill, creating two cooking zones – one hot zone and one cooler zone.
3. Place the griddle: Position your griddle over the hot coals on one side of the grill. If you’re using a cast iron griddle or griddle plate, make sure it’s preheated until it’s hot enough for cooking. You can test this by flicking a few drops of water onto the griddle; if they sizzle and evaporate, it’s hot enough.
4. Cooking: Place your food items on the griddle and cook as needed. You can control the cooking temperature by moving food between the hot and cooler zones or by adjusting the airflow through the grill’s vents.
5. Monitor the Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature and adjust the charcoal as needed to maintain the desired heat.
6. Clean-Up: After griddling, let the griddle cool down. Once it’s cool, clean it with a grill brush or scraper. You can also season cast iron griddles with a thin layer of oil to prevent rust.

Using a griddle on a charcoal grill adds a new dimension to your outdoor cooking options and allows you to achieve that unique griddled flavor and texture in your dishes.

What is the best griddle on the market?

Although there are numerous griddle in the market, it is important to understand that they are never the same. Here are the best griddles on the modern market.

1. Blackstone 36-inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle: This is a large and versatile griddle that’s perfect for outdoor cooking. It offers a generous cooking surface and multiple heat zones for different cooking tasks.
2. Lodge LPGI3 Pro-Grid Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle: Lodge is known for its quality cast iron cookware, and this reversible griddle is no exception. It’s suitable for use on a stovetop, grill, or campfire.
3. Camp Chef Flat Top Grill: Camp Chef produces a range of outdoor cooking equipment, and their flat top grill griddles are known for their performance and durability. They come in various sizes to suit your needs.
4. Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill Griddle: This portable griddle is great for camping, tailgating, or small outdoor gatherings. It has three burners for precise heat control.
5. Cuisinart CGG-501 Gourmet Gas Griddle: If you’re looking for a compact griddle, this Cuisinart model is a good option. It’s portable and well-suited for small outdoor spaces.
6. Weber 7421 Gourmet BBQ System Griddle: Designed for Weber kettle grills, this griddle insert allows you to turn your charcoal grill into a griddle. It’s a great option if you already own a Weber kettle grill.