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If you cook for family or friends on a backyard grill, the right outdoor griddle makes a big difference in surface area, searing consistency, and cleanup time. This guide focuses on top Grill Outdoor Griddles that expand a grill into a flat-top cooking surface so you can sear steaks, cook vegetables, and run a breakfast station with one tool. We shortlisted seven well-regarded options that cover different grill sizes and fuel setups and evaluated them on practical kitchen metrics. Below you will find short profiles of the best picks plus clear guidance on what matters when matching a griddle to your grill and routine. We explain the evaluation criteria used and highlight maintenance, performance, and installation considerations to help you pick the right grill accessory.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Royal Gourmet GB6000 Griddle |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Blackstone 36" Omnivore Griddle |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | SKOK 3 Burner Gas Griddle |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Blackstone 1517 28" Griddle |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Lodge Double Play Reversible Grill/Griddle |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Royal Gourmet PD1305H Griddle Grill Combo |  |
Royal Gourmet GB6000 Griddle
| Fuel Type | Gas |
|---|---|
| Main Burner Count | 6 |
| Cooking Surface Area | 994 square_inches |
| Total Output | 78,000 BTU |
The Royal Gourmet GB6000 is a heavy-duty 6-burner propane griddle built for backyard cookouts and larger gatherings. It offers a 994 sq. in. ceramic-coated flat top that resists rust and scratches while providing even heat across six independently controlled stainless steel burners for a combined 78,000 BTU output. The unit is used like a restaurant-style griddle: preheat zones, sear proteins, and cook vegetables or pancakes side by side without flavor transfer. Practical touches include folding side tables with towel and tool hooks for prep, a front spice rack, double-layer bottom shelves for storage, lockable casters for mobility and a removable grease cup for easier cleanup. Electronic ignition simplifies startup, and the large cooking area can handle high-volume jobs such as dozens of burgers at once. Trade-offs are its large footprint and assembly and maintenance needs typical of a full-size outdoor griddle, and the ceramic top may require care to avoid chipping with heavy metal tools.
Best for: Buyers who want a high-capacity outdoor griddle for frequent entertaining and value independent burner control, integrated prep space, and ample storage.
Less Ideal for: People with very limited outdoor space or those who want a compact, lightweight portable griddle for occasional use should consider smaller alternatives.
- Large 994 sq. in. ceramic-coated cooking surface for high-volume cooking
- Six independently controlled stainless steel burners with 78,000 BTU total for zoned cooking
- Foldable side tables with towel rack, knife holder and tool hooks for convenient prep and storage
- Double-layer bottom shelves and front spice rack provide generous organized storage
- Removable grease cup and electronic ignition simplify cleanup and startup
- Large footprint requires substantial outdoor space and may be awkward during assembly
- Ceramic-coated surface can be damaged by improper tools or rough handling
Verdict: Choose the GB6000 when you need a high-power, large-surface outdoor griddle with independent burner control and built-in prep and storage features for big gatherings.
Blackstone 36" Omnivore Griddle
| Fuel Type | Gas |
|---|---|
| Main Burner Count | 4 |
| Heating Power | 17.58 KW |
| Cooking Surface Area | 720 square_inches |
The Blackstone 36" Omnivore Griddle is a heavy-duty outdoor griddle built for high-output cooking and versatility. Its 36-inch flat top provides expansive cooking area and four independently controlled stainless steel burners, so you can run separate heat zones for burgers, vegetables, and pancakes at the same time. The griddle plate technology is designed to heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly while built-in wind guards help maintain consistent temperatures outdoors. Practical touches include a front grease management system for easier cleanup, two folding side shelves for prep space, tool hooks, and four casters with two locking wheels for mobility and stability. Because it is a dedicated flat-top unit, it locks in juices and is better suited to foods that benefit from a flat surface rather than traditional grate-char. The trade-offs are that it is a large, freestanding unit that needs outdoor space and propane hookup and it does not provide grate-style searing or smoking capability found on some grills.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize high-performance, crowd-capable outdoor cooking and want precise temperature control across multiple zones for varied foods.
Less Ideal for: Anyone who needs a compact grill for limited patios, wants charcoal or smoker functionality, or prefers grate-style sear marks over flat-top cooking.
- Four independently controlled burners let you run multiple heat zones at once.
- Large 36-inch flat cooking surface for cooking for a crowd.
- Rear/front grease management system simplifies cleanup.
- Built-in wind guards and fast, even heat-up from the griddle plate technology.
- Foldable side shelves and locking casters add prep space and easy mobility.
- Provides flat-top cooking only so it does not offer traditional grill grates or smoking capability.
- Requires substantial outdoor space and a propane supply for operation.
Verdict: Choose the Blackstone 36" Omnivore Griddle when you want a high-output, multi-zone flat-top that can cook a crowd with precise heat control.
SKOK 3 Burner Gas Griddle
| Main Burner Count | 3 |
|---|---|
| Cooking System | propane gas with closed system |
| Cooking Surface Area | 326.2 square_inches |
| Installation Type | Free Standing |
The SKOK 3 Burner Gas Griddle is a portable tabletop propane flat-top designed for outdoor cooking like tailgating, camping, or patio use. It uses three stainless-steel tube burners that deliver a combined 45,000 BTU with independent controls so you can create separate heat zones for searing, simmering, or keeping food warm. The large 326.2 square-inch griddle gives room to cook burgers, vegetables, pancakes and larger items at once, and the high removable hood improves heat retention for faster cooking. Construction is primarily stainless steel with a painted finish and the unit includes a grease management system and drip tray to simplify cleaning. The built-in ignition on the durable control panel starts quickly and the griddle ships with a spatula. Limitations to note are its tabletop freestanding design, which is meant for outdoor use only and may not suit built-in or full-sized backyard setups, and the painted finish may show wear over heavy regular use.
Best for: Buyers who want a practical, no-frills outdoor griddle that maximizes cooking space and heat control for small gatherings and mobile grilling scenarios.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking a built-in, cart-mounted, or permanently installed backyard grill system should consider larger freestanding or built-in models instead.
- Three independently controlled burners for adjustable heat zones
- Large 326.2 sq in flat cooking surface for batch cooking
- High lid that improves heat retention and speeds cooking
- Stainless-steel construction with grease management system for easier cleanup
- Tabletop freestanding format is not intended as a built-in or full-size grill replacement
- Painted finish can show wear over time with heavy use
Verdict: A compact, stainless-steel tabletop griddle that gives practical heat control and a large flat cooking area for efficient outdoor cooking.
Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle
| Material Type | Cast Iron |
|---|---|
| Max Temperature Setting | 260 °C |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Oven, stove, grill, campfire |
The Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle is a heavy-duty cast iron plate that flips between a smooth griddle and a ridged grill, giving you a versatile cooking surface for pancakes, bacon, burgers, and steaks. Sized to span two burners, it expands your stovetop area for batch cooking and outdoor uses on a grill or over a campfire. The pre-seasoned finish is made with vegetable oil so it is ready to use and improves with regular cooking, and the cast iron construction provides strong heat retention and even heat distribution to reduce hot spots. A grease gutter and loop handles make it practical for high‑fat foods and transport, while compatibility with induction, ovens, and open flame keeps this useful across cooking situations. The main trade-offs are the weight and the maintenance cast iron requires — it needs drying and occasional re-seasoning and is heavier than aluminum or nonstick options — but for buyers wanting a durable, PFAS-free outdoor griddle that will last for years, it delivers dependable performance.
Best for: Buyers who want a budget-friendly, long-lasting outdoor griddle that delivers versatile cooking surfaces and durability for regular home or campfire use.
Less Ideal for: People who prioritize ultralight cookware, one-handed handling, or maintenance-free nonstick surfaces should consider lighter or coated griddles instead.
- Reversible design gives both flat griddle and ridged grill surfaces in one pan
- Pre-seasoned, PFAS-free finish ready to use out of the box
- Heavy cast iron construction for even heat distribution and excellent heat retention
- Large rectangular surface spans two burners for efficient batch cooking
- Compatible with stovetops, ovens, grills, induction, and campfires
- Heavy weight makes it less convenient to lift and maneuver
- Requires cast-iron care like drying, oiling, and occasional re-seasoning
Verdict: If you want an affordable, no-chemicals outdoor griddle that doubles as a grill and will last for generations, this Lodge reversible cast iron plate is a top practical choice.
Blackstone 1517 28" Griddle
| Fuel Type | Gas |
|---|---|
| Heating Power | 9942 watts |
| Main Burner Count | 2 |
| Cooking Surface Area | 517 square_inches |
The Blackstone 1517 is a full‑size, free‑standing outdoor griddle built for straightforward, reliable backyard cooking. Its large 517 sq. inch flat top and two independent H‑burner heat zones let you run two different temperatures at once, so you can sear steaks on one side while gently cooking eggs or vegetables on the other. The Omnivore griddle plate and wind guards speed preheat and improve heat distribution, which reduces fuel use and helps maintain steady temperatures during longer cooks. Setup and movement are simple thanks to the integrated side handle and two caster wheels, and the patented rear grease management system channels drippings for easier cleanup. Construction uses alloy and stainless steels for a rugged outdoor frame. Expect practical, durable performance rather than precision temperature controls or digital features, and you should plan for seasonal maintenance like seasoning the plate and checking fittings. For anyone wanting a heavy-duty flat top that cooks a lot at once, this griddle does the job dependably.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a dependable, heavy-duty outdoor griddle that can feed a crowd and withstand regular backyard use.
Less Ideal for: If you need precise, low-temperature or digitally controlled cooking for sous‑vide‑style finishes or slow smoking, this unit is not the best match.
- Large 517 sq. in. cooking surface for cooking multiple items at once
- Two independent H‑burner heat zones for simultaneous different-temperature cooking
- Rear grease management system simplifies cleanup and grease disposal
- Sturdy alloy and stainless steel construction built for outdoor use
- Caster wheels and side handle make the griddle easier to move and position
- No digital temperature controls or thermostatic regulation for precise temp management
- Requires routine seasoning and maintenance of the flat top surface
Verdict: Choose the Blackstone 1517 if you want a rugged, no‑frills flat top griddle that reliably cooks large quantities outdoors.
Lodge Double Play Reversible Grill/Griddle
| Material Type | Cast Iron |
|---|---|
| Included Components | 9.5" X 16.75", Lodge Ldp3 Double Play Reversible Grill/Griddle |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Use in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire |
| Max Temperature Setting | 212 °F |
The Lodge Double Play is a heavy-duty reversible cast iron griddle that gives you a flat griddle surface on one side and raised grill ridges on the other, sized to span two burners for family breakfasts or bigger sears. It arrives pre-seasoned with vegetable oil so it offers immediate, naturally PFAS-free release that improves with regular use. You can use it on gas, electric, induction, in the oven, on a grill, or over a campfire, making it a solid choice for both backyard cooking and outdoor trips. Cast iron holds heat evenly and produces an excellent sear, though the piece is heavy and needs care to maintain seasoning and avoid rust. Cleaning takes more effort than nonstick pans and it requires occasional re-seasoning, but its durability and simple, chemical-free cooking surface mean it will last for years if cared for correctly. The dual-sided design is versatile for pancakes, bacon, burgers, and grilled vegetables, and the American-made construction is a reassuring quality signal for buyers who value longevity.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize long-lasting, no-chemical outdoor cookware and want a single plate that handles both pancakes and high-heat grilling for family meals or cookouts.
Less Ideal for: If you need ultra-lightweight, dishwasher-safe, or low-maintenance cookware for everyday quick cleanups, this heavy cast iron griddle is not the best match.
- Reversible dual-sided design gives both flat griddle and ridged grill surfaces.
- Pre-seasoned cast iron provides a naturally nonstick, PFAS-free cooking surface out of the box.
- Compatible with gas, electric, induction, oven, grill, and campfire for true indoor/outdoor versatility.
- Thick cast iron construction holds and distributes heat well for consistent searing.
- Heavy weight makes it cumbersome to lift and move when hot.
- Requires regular seasoning and care to prevent rust and maintain nonstick performance.
Verdict: Choose this Lodge reversible cast iron griddle when you want a durable, chemical-free outdoor-ready plate that sears like a pro and will last for years.
Royal Gourmet PD1305H Griddle Grill Combo
| Cooking Surface Area | 364 square_inches |
|---|---|
| Total BTU Output | 29,000 BTU |
| Side Burner Count | 1 |
| Main Burner Count | 2 |
| Material Type | Steel (Main body), Porcelain-enameled (griddle/grill) |
The Royal Gourmet PD1305H is a compact, portable propane cooktop that combines a porcelain-enameled griddle, a grill grate, and a pot rack so you can switch cooking styles without swapping appliances. It is typically used for backyard cookouts, tailgates, and camping where a tabletop setup is convenient. Two 8,500 BTU stainless steel main burners plus a 12,000 BTU side burner produce the listed 29,000 BTU output for rapid heating and reasonable temperature control, while flame tamers and the porcelain surfaces help even heat distribution and cleanup. The unit includes removable grease cups and a piezo ignition that works without batteries for straightforward startup and maintenance. Limitations to note are its tabletop orientation and portable size, which mean it is not a full-size backyard grill replacement and offers less cooking area than cart-style grills; assembly and stability depend on a flat surface and the adjustable feet. For buyers wanting a versatile, travel-friendly outdoor cooker, the PD1305H delivers solid performance in a small footprint.
Best for: Buyers who want a risk-averse, dependable portable cooker for outdoor gatherings and trips and prioritize straightforward setup, easy ignition, and simple cleanup.
Less Ideal for: Those looking for a permanent backyard grill with large continuous cooking capacity or a built-in cart-style unit should consider larger, stationary grills instead.
- True 3-in-1 design lets you use griddle, grill grate, or pot rack without extra gear
- High combined BTU output for quick heat and searing from stainless steel burners
- Removable grease cups and porcelain-enameled surfaces simplify cleaning
- Piezo ignition works without batteries for reliable startup
- Compact, tabletop portability makes it easy to take camping or tailgating
- Tabletop format and compact cooking area are smaller than full-size grills
- Requires a stable flat surface for safe operation and heat stability
Verdict: A compact, reliable 3-in-1 tabletop propane grill and griddle that gives risk-averse buyers versatile outdoor cooking with easy ignition and cleanup.
Choosing the Right Grill Outdoor Griddle: Key Factors to Consider
Heat Distribution
An even heat profile across the griddle plate is essential for predictable results. Uneven hotspots produce inconsistent searing and require constant food movement, which is frustrating when you are cooking multiple items at once. Consider griddles with thicker plates or engineered channels that help spread and retain heat so you get uniform browning from front to back.
Heat distribution also affects fuel use. A plate that holds heat well reaches cooking temperature faster and recovers heat when cold food is added, reducing flare-ups and wasted fuel. If you plan to cook for larger groups or serve mixed items simultaneously, prioritize even heat over marginally faster warm-up times.
Material And Plate Thickness
Griddle plates come in different materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, or cast iron, and thickness varies widely. Thicker plates resist warping and provide better thermal mass, which stabilizes temperature under load. Carbon steel and cast iron develop a seasoned surface that offers good nonstick properties when maintained properly, while stainless steel is easier to clean but may not hold heat as long.
Think about long-term durability and maintenance. Thicker steel requires more edge weight and may take longer to heat, but it rewards with even cooking and longevity. If you expect heavy use or occasional high-heat searing, choose robust plate construction to avoid future distortion.
Compatibility With Your Grill
Not every griddle fits every grill. Compatibility refers to how the griddle mounts, whether it blocks burners or controls, and how stable it is during cooking. Some griddles are sized to sit in place over the grill grates, while others attach to the front rail or replace a grate. Measure the grill width and note burner layout before choosing a plate.
Consider access to grill controls and ventilation. A griddle that restricts burner operation or makes it hard to adjust heat will complicate multi-zone cooking. If you own a particular grill type, prioritize a griddle designed to match that configuration to avoid fitment surprises.
Ease Of Cleaning And Maintenance
Outdoor cooking is messier than indoor stovetop work, so think about how the griddle handles grease and residue. Plates that allow scraping and have angled edges or grease channels make it easier to remove food debris and collect fats. Surfaces that can tolerate high-heat seasoning and routine re-seasoning are preferable if you want long-term nonstick performance.
Also consider weight and portability. A very heavy plate may perform well but be difficult to remove for thorough cleaning or storage. Look for designs that balance manageable weight with durable construction, and check whether the griddle's geometry makes it simple to access and clear grease traps.
Cooking Surface Area And Workflow
The usable cooking area determines how much you can prepare at once and shapes your cooking workflow. Larger plates let you sear protein on one side while keeping vegetables or eggs warm on the other. However, oversized plates may be harder to heat uniformly and can exceed the grilling area of smaller grills.
Consider how you usually cook. If you often feed a crowd or like to run multiple dishes at once, a larger surface is worth the tradeoff. If you mostly make meals for one or two people, a compact griddle that concentrates heat and is easy to store may be a smarter choice.
Mounting, Storage, And Portability
Practical use includes how you attach, detach, and store the griddle. Some designs are lightweight and fold or nest, while others are heavy and intended to remain on the grill. Mounting systems that allow quick removal help with cleaning and let you switch back to open-grate grilling when needed.
Portability matters if you move your grill frequently or transport the griddle to tailgate events. Evaluate how the griddle balances weight, handles, and overall footprint relative to your grill setup and storage space.
Preparing Your Grill For A Griddle Plate
Before installing a griddle plate, ensure the grill is cool and clean. Remove loose grates and any debris that could impede a flat fit. Check that burners are operational and that control knobs and igniters remain accessible once the plate is in place.
If the griddle sits above burners, verify that the plate will not block essential ventilation or interfere with the burner flame pattern. For bolt-on or rail-mounted systems, follow manufacturer torque guidance to avoid warping the plate during installation.
- Measure interior grill width and depth to confirm fit.
- Clear grease and ash to prevent uneven contact.
- Test fit the plate cold to confirm alignment with burners and controls.
Seasoning And Initial Break-In
Carbon steel and cast-iron griddles benefit from a seasoning process that builds a protective, semi-nonstick layer. After washing with warm water and a gentle scrub, dry the plate thoroughly and apply a thin layer of neutral oil before heating on the grill.
Start with a low to moderate heat, then gradually increase to allow the oil to polymerize without smoking excessively. Repeat the oiling and heating cycle two or three times to develop a durable surface. Stainless steel plates need less seasoning but may benefit from a light oil to prevent sticking during initial uses.
- Use high-smoke-point oils like refined vegetable or grapeseed oil.
- Avoid soaps for routine cleaning once a seasoning layer is established.
Everyday Cooking Techniques On A Griddle
A griddle lets you run multiple cooking zones across one flat surface. Use a hotter center for searing and slightly lower temperatures toward the edges for finishing or warming. This technique reduces the need for flipping and juggling pans.
Use metal spatulas for flipping and a bench scraper to clear residue between batches. For sticky foods like eggs, allow the surface to reach proper temperature and use a light coating of oil to minimize sticking.
- Create temperature zones by varying burner output beneath the plate.
- Reserve one area for delicate items and another for high-heat searing.
Managing Grease And Safety
Effective grease management reduces flare-ups and simplifies cleanup. Many griddles include angled surfaces and grease channels that direct fats to a collection cup. Keep the drainage path clear and empty catchers regularly to avoid overflow.
Always monitor flare-ups and never leave a hot griddle unattended. Use heat-resistant gloves when handling the plate, and ensure any grease catchers are placed and secured before cooking.
- Position a drip pan or grease cup off to the side and check it midway through long cooks.
- Keep a spray bottle of water on hand for small flare-ups but avoid dousing a grease fire.
Storing And Caring For Your Griddle
After each cook, while the plate is still warm, scrape away food particles and wipe with an oil-coated cloth to preserve seasoning. For deeper cleaning, remove the plate once cool and wash with minimal soap, then re-season as needed.
Store the griddle in a dry location to prevent rust. If you keep it attached to the grill, consider a weatherproof cover and occasional touch-up seasoning to protect exposed metal surfaces.
- Dry thoroughly after cleaning to avoid rust.
- Apply a thin oil layer before long-term storage.
How We Chose the Best Grill Outdoor Griddle
We looked for griddles that turn a grill into a reliable flat-top cook surface while keeping installation and maintenance straightforward. Key evaluation criteria included how evenly a griddle distributes heat across its surface, the durability and material thickness of the cooking plate, how the unit integrates with common grill types, ease of cleaning and maintenance, and how simple it is to store or remove. We also considered how much usable cooking area each option provides relative to typical backyard grilling needs and whether the griddle supports multiple cooking techniques such as searing and low-and-slow cooking. We excluded thin, hobbyist plates and specialty restaurant equipment that require professional installation or dedicated fuel systems. We also filtered out units lacking clear instructions for safe grill mounting or those that limit access to grill controls. The resulting shortlist emphasizes dependable construction, predictable heat performance, and practical maintenance for everyday outdoor cooks.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will a griddle plate fit on any grill?
It depends. Fit requires matching the plate width and mounting style to your grill's interior dimensions and burner layout. Measure your grill and check the griddle's compatibility details before purchasing.
How often should I re-season a carbon steel griddle?
Re-seasoning frequency depends on use. With regular cooking, a light oil wipe after each use and a more thorough seasoning every few months keeps the surface performing well. High-acid foods can erode seasoning faster.
Can I leave a griddle on the grill year-round?
You can, but prolonged exposure to weather increases the risk of rust and wear. If you keep the plate mounted, use a cover and periodically reapply seasoning and inspect for corrosion.
How do I prevent food from sticking on stainless griddle plates?
Preheat the plate fully, use a light coating of a high-smoke-point oil, and avoid moving food too early. Once the food releases naturally, use a metal spatula to flip. Routine cleaning and oiling also help.
Is a thicker plate always better?
Thicker plates resist warping and retain heat better, which is valuable for steady searing. However, they weigh more and take longer to heat. Choose thickness based on cooking volume and how often you want to remove the plate for storage or cleaning.
Final Verdict
Prioritize heat distribution, plate durability, and ease of cleaning when choosing a Grill Outdoor Griddle. Tradeoffs are common: thicker plates and larger surfaces provide stability and more cooking area but increase weight and warm-up time. Compatibility with your grill and practical grease management are equally important for safe, consistent performance. Focus on the factors that match how you cook: choose a compact, easy-to-store plate for casual use or a heavier, thicker plate if you frequently sear for crowds. With the right balance of fit, material, and maintenance, a griddle will expand what you can do on your grill and make outdoor cooking more versatile.