Updated: July 2025
Looking to add griddle functionality to your outdoor cooking setup without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place! After researching various DIY griddle solutions, I’ve compiled the most practical and cost-effective methods to create your own flat top cooking surface in 2025.
Whether you own a Blackstone, Camp Chef, Nexgrill, Cuisinart, or Blue Rhino grill, these methods will work for virtually any flat top grill or standard gas grill.
If you’ve recently invested in a regular grill and discovered the amazing versatility of griddle cooking, you don’t need to spend hundreds more on a separate griddle. With some creativity and basic DIY skills, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – grilling steaks one day and making pancakes the next.
This comprehensive guide covers four different approaches, ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced DIY projects, so there’s an option for every skill level and budget. Each method has been tested and proven effective by thousands of outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Method 1: Buy A Ready-Made Griddle Plate
This is the simplest and fastest way to transform your existing grill into a griddle. A griddle plate essentially turns your grill grates into a flat cooking surface, perfect for pancakes, smash burgers, vegetables, bacon, and stir-fries.
What you’ll need:
• A griddle plate sized for your grill (typically $40-80)
• Measuring tape to ensure proper fit
• Optional: heat-resistant handles for easy removal
• High-heat cooking oil for initial seasoning
Pros:
• Instant gratification – use it immediately
• Maintain full grill functionality
• Easy to remove and store
• No tools or modifications required
• Most plates come pre-seasoned
Considerations:
• Temperature variations across the surface due to burner placement
• May require learning which zones cook faster
• Ensure your grill grates are level for even cooking
• Limited size options compared to custom builds
Pro Tip: Test different positions on your grill grates to find the most level placement. Some adjustment may be needed to achieve even heat distribution. Look for plates with cast iron construction for better heat retention and even cooking.
Method 2: Fabricate Your Own with Sheet Metal
For the budget-conscious DIY enthusiast, creating your own griddle plate from sheet metal is an excellent option. This affordable approach gives you complete control over size and specifications while potentially saving 50-70% compared to commercial options.
Materials needed:
• Hot-rolled steel sheet (¼ inch thick recommended) – approximately $25-40
• White vinegar for cleaning
• Dish soap
• High-heat cooking oil (flaxseed, canola, or vegetable oil)
• Metal cutting tools (if resizing needed)
• Steel wool or wire brush for preparation
Step-by-step preparation process:
Step 1: Clean and sanitize
Soak the steel sheet in a 50/50 vinegar and water solution for 12 hours. This removes manufacturing residues, oils, and contaminants that aren’t food-safe. Use a plastic container large enough to submerge the entire sheet.
Step 2: Wash thoroughly
Scrub with hot, soapy water using steel wool to remove vinegar smell and add an extra layer of cleanliness. Rinse completely and dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Season the surface
Apply a thin layer of high-heat oil using a paper towel. Heat in your oven or on your grill, starting at 200°F and gradually increasing to 500°F (or your oven’s maximum). The surface should turn golden-brown. Repeat this process 3-4 times for optimal seasoning.
Important safety note: Always ensure proper ventilation when seasoning, and never use galvanized steel for cooking surfaces due to toxic fume risk. Cold-rolled steel is smoother but more expensive – hot-rolled works perfectly for griddle applications.
This method requires moderate DIY skills, especially if you need to cut the metal to size. Most metal supply shops can cut it to your specifications for a small fee. Always prioritize safety and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure about any step.
Method 3: Find Brand-Specific Griddle Attachments
Many grill manufacturers now offer official griddle attachments designed specifically for their models. This option provides the perfect balance of convenience and compatibility, ensuring optimal performance with your existing equipment.
Advantages:
• Perfect fit guaranteed for your grill model
• Professional design and construction
• Often includes features like drip management and grease channels
• Warranty coverage typically included
• Pre-seasoned and ready to use
• Engineered for your grill’s specific heat output
Where to look:
• Your grill manufacturer’s website and customer service
• Authorized dealers and parts suppliers
• Generic brands offering universal-fit options
• Local BBQ and outdoor cooking specialty stores
Simply place the attachment on top of your grill grates, and you’re ready to start griddle cooking. While this is typically the most expensive option ($60-150+), the convenience, quality, and perfect fit often justify the cost for serious outdoor cooks.
Recommended option: The folks at Steelmade USA manufacture excellent griddle plates designed to fit most standard grills. Their products offer professional quality without requiring a complete griddle purchase and come with detailed installation instructions.
Method 4: Build Your Own Griddle from Scratch
For experienced DIY enthusiasts, building a complete griddle from scratch offers ultimate customization and satisfaction. This advanced project requires significant planning, welding skills, and strict attention to safety considerations, but results in a truly personalized cooking system.
Key components to consider:
Burner selection:
• U-shaped burners: Best for zone control and even heat distribution
• H-shaped burners: Good for larger cooking surfaces and multiple zones
• Linear burners: Simpler design, adequate for basic needs but less control
• BTU considerations: Plan for 15,000-20,000 BTU per burner for optimal performance
Proper burner positioning:
Maintain a ¼ inch gap between the griddle surface and burner flames at maximum heat. This prevents hot spots and ensures even cooking. Test with a thermometer to verify consistent temperatures across the surface.
Material selection:
• Stainless steel: Excellent heat retention and durability, easy to clean
• Carbon steel: Professional choice, requires seasoning but develops superior non-stick properties
• Cast iron: Exceptional heat retention but heavy and requires maintenance
• Avoid aluminum: Poor performance at high temperatures and potential health concerns
Essential design features:
• 4-inch splashguard around back and sides to contain grease
• Grease management system with sloped surface and collection tray
• Proper ventilation for gas connections and safety
• Stable base with adjustable legs for leveling
• Safety shutoffs and pressure regulators
• Wind guards to protect flames from extinguishing
Critical safety reminder: Gas connections and electrical work should always be performed by qualified professionals. Never attempt gas line work without proper certification and local permit approval. Many areas require inspection of custom-built gas appliances.
Seasoning requirement: Any griddle surface you build must be properly seasoned to create a non-stick coating and prevent rust, following the same process described in Method 2. Plan for multiple seasoning sessions before first use.
Conclusion
Creating your own griddle doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you choose a simple griddle plate for immediate gratification, craft your own from sheet metal for budget savings, purchase a brand-specific attachment for guaranteed compatibility, or build from scratch for complete customization, each method has proven successful for thousands of outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Choose based on your:
• Budget constraints ($25-$150+ range)
• DIY skill level (beginner to advanced)
• Time availability (30 minutes to several days)
• Desired features and customization level
• Long-term cooking goals and frequency of use
Remember to always prioritize safety, especially when working with gas connections or electrical components. When done correctly, a DIY griddle can perform just as well as commercial units while saving you significant money and providing the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands! Start with Method 1 or 2 if you’re new to griddle cooking, then upgrade to more advanced options as your skills and interest grow.
