Ah, the great debate among backyard chefs and patio culinary experts: griddle or grill? If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent more than one afternoon pondering this very question, revisiting memories of seared veggies on a hot griddle and the unmistakable smoky taste of grill-charred steaks.
But what if you didn’t have to choose? What if I told you that you could have the best of both worlds with a griddle grill combo? Let me tell you, it’s a game changer!
In this post, I’ll guide you through the ins and outs of owning and making the most out of a griddle grill combo.
So, buckle up, grab your spatulas and tongs, and let’s dive deep into the joys of having a griddle grill combo!
Don’t Have Time To Read It All?: Griddle grill combos offer the best of both worlds, combining the searing prowess of a grill with the expansive, even cooking surface of a griddle. They’re an ideal choice for those seeking versatility without the need to purchase two separate units, though they do trade off some cooking space for each function.
Our Picks For Best Griddle Grill Combos
Alright grilling gurus, let’s dive into our top picks for griddle grill combos that are sure to spice up your outdoor cooking game. These three champs blend the best of both grilling and griddling, perfect for those who love versatility and flavor in their backyard feasts. Let’s check them out!
Blackstone On The Go Tailgater
First up, check out the Blackstone On The Go Tailgater! This little beast combines a 17” griddle with a classic grill, perfect for those tailgate parties when you’re cheering on your favorite team. Its removable grill box has pre-seasoned cast iron grates that’ll make your burgers and steaks taste like they’re straight from a pro kitchen.
Plus, it’s got two cooking zones pumping out a total of 30,500 BTUs – talk about some serious heat! Whether it’s Philly cheesesteaks on the griddle or juicy burgers on the grill, this combo’s got your back. It’s the MVP of portable grilling!
Royal Gourmet Gas 4-Burner Portable Flat Top Grill and Griddle Combo
Next up, the Royal Gourmet Gas Grill and Griddle Combo is your answer. This 2-in-1 powerhouse offers the best of both worlds – a porcelain-enameled cast iron gas grill and a ceramic-coated steel griddle.
Each has its own generous cooking space, perfect for feeding the whole crew. With collapsible legs, it’s a breeze to take on outdoor adventures. Plus, with a total of 48,000 BTUs across four burners, you’re set for some serious cooking. It’s like having your own outdoor kitchen that goes wherever you do!
Razor Folding 4-Burner Combination Griddle and Grill
Finally, the Razor Folding 4-Burner Combination Griddle and Grill. This versatile buddy offers a whopping 512 sq. in. of cooking space, so you can cook up a storm for larger groups.
With 40,000 BTUs across four burners, you’ve got the power to grill or griddle pretty much anything. The steel lid isn’t just for protection – it’s great for melting and steaming too. And the best part? Its unique scissor leg design makes it super easy to fold and carry, so you can take your grilling adventures anywhere. Whether it’s a family picnic or a camping trip, this Razor’s got you covered!
Understanding the Griddle and the Grill
Before we jump into the hybrid world, it’s essential to understand the basics. Griddles and grills each have their special place in the heart of an outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Griddles: The Flat-Top Marvel
A griddle is a flat cooking surface that’s typically made from cast iron or stainless steel, providing an even heat distribution perfect for cooking almost anything slapped on it. Here’s where my love for breakfast foods comes into the picture.
Imagine cooking pancakes, eggs, bacon, and hashbrowns all at once without sacrificing an inch of your kitchen. That’s the beauty of a griddle. I’ve conjured up countless breakfast feasts on my trusty flat-top, each one bringing the kind of joy you’d expect from a sunny-side-up morning.
Grills: The Flame-Licked Favorite
Now for the grill – the pride of many patios. Be it gas, charcoal, or pellet, grilling is an art form; it’s where those bold grill marks and the unmistakable smoky flavor come to life. Grills are fantastic for barbecuing ribs, searing steaks, and getting that perfect char on vegetables.
I still remember the first time I mastered the grill, the sense of triumph watching my guests’ eyes light up as they bit into a perfectly medium-rare steak was unparalleled.
Enter the Griddle Grill Combo: A Culinary Powerhouse
Now imagine not having to choose between fluffy pancakes and smoky, seared meats. The griddle grill combo is exactly what it sounds like – a two-in-one solution that typically offers a griddle surface on one side and a grill on the other.
Why Choose a Combo?
The decision to invest in a combo came to me during a chaotic Fourth of July cookout. I was flipping burgers on my grill and found myself wishing for a griddle to handle the grilled onions and sautéed mushrooms.
While transferring these garnishes to the stovetop inside seemed practical, it took me away from my guests and the grilling action. It was then that I knew I needed a combo in my arsenal.
The Best of Both Worlds
With a griddle grill combo, you can delight in the flexibility of cooking methods. Want to start with a grilled chicken but crave a side of perfectly browned hash browns? No problem.
Planning a taco night and need to char tortillas while grilling carne asada? You’re all set. Each food item gets the surface it deserves, resulting in optimal texture and flavor.
Space Efficiency
Space is a premium, especially if you’re working with a smaller patio or deck. A combo unit saves space by combining two large pieces of equipment into one.
You no longer have to choose which cooking method wins the day; both can coexist in harmony, leaving you more room for those fancy patio chairs or a larger dining table.
Versatility in Cooking
A griddle grill combo gives you the versatility to cook a wider range of foods more effectively. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, name the meal, and this combo unit has you covered. I’ve hosted entire parties without once stepping into my kitchen, handling every course with my trusty combo.
Where Griddle-Grill Combos Fall Short
Now, don’t get me wrong, having the best of both worlds in one unit sounds like a backyard cook’s dream, right? But here’s the rub: when you’ve got a combo, you’re basically slicing the space of each in half.
Think about it – part of the whole charm of a griddle is that sprawling real estate where you can flip burgers, sizzle bacon, and even toast up some buns all at the same time. It’s like having your own outdoor diner! But with a combo, you’re kinda cramped.
Sure, you’ve got versatility, but it’s like trying to host a big party in a tiny apartment – things get tight real fast. So, while combos are cool for a bit of everything, if you’re really into griddlin’, nothing beats the space and freedom of a full-sized griddle.
Tips for Choosing Your Griddle Grill Combo
When you’re ready to make the leap and buy your own griddle grill combo, consider these tips based on my experiences:
Assess Your Needs
Think about what you like to cook and how you entertain. If you often have large gatherings, look for a combo with ample cooking space. If it’s just for family meals, a more compact model might do the trick.
Quality Matters
Don’t skimp on quality. Look for durable materials like stainless steel and cast iron. A good combo should withstand the elements and last for many grilling seasons.
Easy Cleaning
A combo that’s difficult to clean can be a deal-breaker. Opt for units with simple, easily accessible parts that make the cleanup process a breeze.
Portability
If you’re a tailgater or love camping, consider a combo that’s easy to move. Some models come with wheels or detachable stands that make transport a lot easier.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Combo
I’ll admit, when I first heard about griddle grill combos, I was skeptical. Could one unit truly handle both tasks effectively? After years of firsthand experience, I’m a full convert. The versatility, efficiency, and space-saving attributes of the combo make it invaluable to anyone who takes their outdoor cooking seriously.
Remember, outdoor cooking doesn’t have to be a choice between griddling or grilling. With the right combo unit, you can seamlessly transition between cuisines and cooking styles, ensuring you’re always the maestro of the backyard bash.
Whether it’s a sunny breakfast gathering or a rainy night grill-off, I’m ready for it all, and you could be too. So, here’s to many more memorable meals and the undeniably ingenious griddle grill combo!
