Are you looking to switch up your grilling game? Maybe you’ve been eyeing a flat top grill at your local hardware store, but the price tag is just too steep. Well, what if we told you that there’s an alternative option that might save you some cash?
Before dropping money on a new grill, have you considered whether or not it’s possible to add a flat top to your existing one? It may seem like an impossible feat, but fear not – as your helpful neighbor in all things related to grilling and BBQs – we are here with the answers!
In this guide, we’ll explore whether or not it’s possible and explain how exactly you can put a flat top on your grill. So grab some spices and let’s get cookin’!
What Is A Flat Top Grill?
A flat top grill, also known as a griddle, is an outdoor cooking appliance that features a large, flat cooking surface. Unlike traditional grills that have grates for the food to sit on and cook over an open flame, flat top grills have a smooth surface that allows for even heat distribution across the entire cooking area.
Flat top grills are typically fueled by propane or natural gas and can be used to cook a wide variety of foods including meats, vegetables, pancakes, eggs, and more. They can also be used to sear meat or seafood quickly at high temperatures.
If you’re someone who loves hosting parties or cooking for large groups of people, a flat top grill might be just what you need. With its spacious cooking surface and versatility in terms of temperature control and heating options (such as using charcoal), you’ll be able to whip up delicious meals for all your guests without breaking a sweat.
Can You Put A Flat Top On A Grill?
If you’re wondering whether you can add a flat top to your existing grill, the short answer is yes, but it depends on the type of grill you have. Most gas grills are compatible with a flat top attachment, which is essentially a large metal plate that sits on top of your grill grates.
Before purchasing an attachment, make sure that your grill has enough clearance for the additional height of the flat top. Also note that not all attachments will fit all types and brands of grills, so be sure to check compatibility before making a purchase.
If you’re feeling handy or want something more customized, it’s also possible to convert an existing grill into a custom flat top setup by replacing or modifying the existing cooking surface. This option may require some DIY skills and tools, but can often result in a more tailored solution for your specific needs.
Whether using an attachment or custom setup, using a flat top on your grill offers many benefits such as versatility in cooking style and even heat distribution across its large surface area. However, keep in mind that maintenance is key to ensuring longevity and proper functioning.
Consider investing in specialized cleaning tools and seasoning products for optimal results.
Flat Top Grill Attachment
If you already have a grill and don’t want to invest in a separate flat top grill, there are attachment options available that can turn your existing grill into a flat top.
Flat top grill attachments come in different sizes and shapes, so make sure to choose one that fits your specific grill model. They typically consist of a metal plate or tray with raised edges that sits on top of the grates of your gas or charcoal grill.
One benefit of using an attachment is that it allows you to utilize the cooking power of your existing grill while still being able to enjoy the benefits of a flat top surface. This can save you money compared to buying a separate unit.
When choosing an attachment, pay attention to materials used as well as how easy it is to clean. Stainless steel is often preferred for its durability and resistance to rusting, while non-stick surfaces may be easier to clean after use.
Remember though, even with an attachment, not all grills are created equal so it’s important to adjust cooking times and temperatures accordingly based on what works best for your setup.
Custom Flat Top Grill
If you’re someone who loves to cook outdoors, investing in a custom flat top grill may be a great option for you. Not only will it allow you to cook a variety of dishes, but it’ll also add a unique touch to your outdoor cooking setup.
One way to customize your grill is by building your own flat top surface on an existing grill. This can be done with some basic tools and materials, such as steel plates and angle iron. However, keep in mind that this process can be time-intensive and requires some DIY skills.
Another option is to purchase a custom flat top attachment that can be added onto your existing grill. This type of attachment typically includes the smooth cooking surface along with the necessary support brackets for easy installation.
When considering a custom flat top grill, think about the size and shape of the cooking surface as well as the heat output needed for optimal cooking results.
Consider what types of meals you plan on preparing and choose a configuration that allows for ample space and temperature control.
No matter which customization route you choose, remember that safety should always be priority number one when working with grills or any kind of open flame cooking equipment.
Always follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully and take precautions like wearing protective gear while handling hot surfaces or sharp tools.
Next up we’ll dive into the benefits of using a flat top grill so stay tuned!
Benefits Of A Flat Top Grill
Flat top grills have become increasingly popular among grill enthusiasts in recent years, and for good reason.
Here are a few key benefits that you can enjoy when using a flat top grill:
- Versatility: Flat top grills can be used to cook just about anything, from burgers and hot dogs to pancakes and stir-fry dishes. You can use the entire cooking surface to prepare multiple types of food simultaneously.
- Even Heat Distribution: Unlike traditional grills that rely on direct heat, flat top grills distribute heat evenly across the entire cooking surface. This means you won’t have any hot or cold spots on your grill, resulting in perfectly cooked food every time.
- Large Cooking Surface: Most flat top grills come with large cooking surfaces, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings or family dinners where you need to cook multiple items at once.
- Easy To Clean: Cleaning a flat top grill is quick and easy thanks to its smooth surface and grease management system. Simply scrape off any excess food residue and wipe down the surface with a damp cloth or paper towel.
By taking advantage of these benefits, you’ll be able to prepare amazing meals on your flat top grill every time!
However, it’s important to keep some tips in mind to help ensure success while using one – which we will cover in our upcoming subheadings below!
Versatility
One of the biggest benefits of a flat top grill is its versatility. You can use it to cook just about anything, from breakfast foods like pancakes and eggs to burgers, steak, and vegetables.
With a flat top grill, you have more control over the temperature than with a traditional BBQ or smoker. This makes it ideal for cooking delicate items like fish or shrimp that require precise heat.
You can also use a flat top grill to create stir-fry dishes or even cook pizzas. The large cooking surface allows you to cook multiple items at once without having to worry about them sticking together.
Another benefit of using a flat top grill is that you don’t have to wait for charcoal or wood chips to heat up before you start cooking. This means that you can get your food on the table much faster than with other types of grills.
Overall, if versatility is what you’re after in a grill, then a flat top grill might be just what you need. With its large cooking surface and precise temperature control, it’s the perfect tool for creating all kinds of delicious meals at home.
Even Heat Distribution
One of the biggest benefits of a flat top grill is its even heat distribution. Unlike traditional grills that rely on direct flames, a flat top grill heats up evenly across its entire surface. This means you can cook your food more evenly and avoid hot spots.
To ensure that your flat top grill heats up evenly, it’s important to let it preheat properly before cooking. This will help distribute the heat evenly across the surface. You can also adjust the temperature as needed throughout the cooking process to maintain an even cooking temperature.
When using a flat top grill, you’ll notice that there are no open flames or exposed heating elements like there are on traditional grills. Instead, heat is generated from underneath the flat top surface and distributed evenly across the cooking surface.
Not only does this lead to better tasting food, but it also means that you can cook multiple items at once without worrying about one item getting overcooked while another remains undercooked.
With a flat top grill’s even heat distribution, everything will cook perfectly every time!
Large Cooking Surface
One of the biggest benefits of using a flat top grill is the large cooking surface it provides. Unlike traditional grills with grates, a flat top grill allows you to cook multiple items at once without worrying about them falling through the gaps.
This makes it an ideal choice for cooking up big batches of food, like burgers and hot dogs for a backyard barbecue or pancakes and bacon for a large family brunch. It also gives you more flexibility in terms of what types of foods you can cook – from stir-fry to grilled cheese sandwiches, there’s no limit to what you can create on a flat top grill.
To get the most out of your large cooking surface, make sure to organize your food in sections based on cooking time and temperature requirements. This will help ensure that everything cooks evenly and nothing gets overcooked or burnt.
Another tip is to avoid overcrowding the surface. While it’s tempting to pile on as much food as possible at once, this can lead to uneven heat distribution and longer cook times. Instead, try splitting up larger batches into smaller portions that fit comfortably on the surface.
Overall, having a large cooking surface on your flat top grill is an invaluable asset for any outdoor chef. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for more space to prepare your favorite dishes, investing in one of these versatile appliances is sure to pay off in delicious meals every time.
Easy To Clean
One of the biggest advantages of a flat top grill is that it’s incredibly easy to clean. Unlike traditional grills with grates, a flat top doesn’t have any crevices or small spaces for food debris to get stuck in. This makes cleaning up after your meal a breeze!
To clean your flat top grill, simply scrape off any excess food particles using a metal spatula. Then, wipe down the surface with a damp rag or paper towel. If there are any stubborn spots that won’t come off, you can use some water and dish soap to scrub them away.
It’s important to note that you should never use abrasive materials like steel wool on your flat top grill as this can scratch the surface and damage it over time. Stick to using soft cloths or sponges instead.
Another tip for keeping your flat top grill clean is to season it regularly. This involves coating the surface with oil and heating it up until it starts smoking, which creates a non-stick layer on the surface of the grill. Not only does this make cooking easier, but it also helps prevent food from sticking and makes cleanup even faster.
In summary, if easy cleanup is high on your priority list when choosing a new outdoor cooking appliance – then consider investing in one of these versatile kitchen gadgets!
Tips For Using A Flat Top Grill
Using a flat top grill can be intimidating at first, but with these tips, you’ll be cooking up delicious meals in no time:
- Season the flat top: Before using your new flat top grill, season it with oil to prevent food from sticking. Rub oil onto the surface of the grill and heat it up until smoking. Let it cool down and repeat this process a couple of times.
- Don’t overcrowd the surface: It’s tempting to put as much food as possible on the grill, but try not to overcrowd it. This can cause uneven cooking and make flipping more difficult.
- Keep it clean: After each use, scrape off any excess food bits or grease and wipe down with a damp cloth. You should also deep clean your flat top every few uses by using warm water and soap.
- Use the right tools: Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch or damage your flat top surface. Instead, opt for wooden or plastic spatulas that won’t harm the coating.
By following these simple tips, you’ll ensure that your flat top grill lasts for years to come while also producing delicious meals every time you cook on it!
Season The Flat Top
Before using a flat top grill, it’s important to season it properly. This will not only prevent your food from sticking to the surface, but also help extend the life of your grill.
To season a flat top grill, start by heating it up on high heat for 10-15 minutes. Once heated, use a high temperature oil such as canola or vegetable oil and apply a thin layer onto the surface. Using paper towels or a clean cloth, spread evenly across the entire cooking surface.
Let the oil cook into the surface for at least 20-30 minutes before wiping off any excess with another clean cloth. Repeat this process several times until you notice that there is no more black residue coming off when wiping down with paper towels.
It’s important to note that seasoning should be done regularly to maintain an optimal cooking surface. After each use, scrape off any food remnants and reapply another layer of oil onto the cooled-down surface.
By seasoning your flat top grill properly and regularly maintaining it, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious meals without having to worry about sticking or uneven heat distribution.
Don’t Overcrowd The Cooking Surface
One of the biggest mistakes people make when using a flat top grill is overcrowding the cooking surface. It’s tempting to cook as much as possible in one go, but this will result in uneven cooking and may even cause your food to burn.
To avoid overcrowding, it’s important to leave space between each item you’re cooking. This will allow for even heat distribution and prevent any excess moisture from being trapped, which could cause your food to steam rather than fry.
If you do need to cook a large amount of food at once, consider working in batches instead. This will take more time, but it will ensure that everything is cooked evenly and has a chance to get crispy on the outside.
Another thing to keep in mind is the size of your cooking utensils. Using oversized utensils can also lead to overcrowding and make it harder for you to maneuver around the grill, so be sure to use tools that are appropriately sized for your surface area.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to make delicious meals on your flat top grill every time without worrying about overcrowding or uneven cooking.
Keep The Flat Top Clean
To ensure a long and healthy life for your flat top grill, it’s important to keep it clean after every use. Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Use a scraper – After cooking, allow the grill to cool down before using a scraper to remove any food debris or grease that has accumulated on the surface.
- Wipe with cloth – Once you’ve removed all debris, use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down the surface of the flat top grill.
- Apply oil – To prevent rust and ensure that the surface remains non-stick, apply a thin layer of oil after cleaning.
- Cover when not in use – Finally, cover your flat top grill when not in use to protect it from dirt and dust buildup.
Overall, keeping your flat top grill clean will help prolong its lifespan while also ensuring that your food is always cooked at optimal levels.
Use The Right Tools
Using the right tools is essential for maximizing the potential of your flat top grill. Here are some tools to consider when cooking on a flat top:
- Spatulas: A good spatula with a long handle can help you cook and flip food easily, without burning yourself or getting too close to the heat.
- Scraper: Flat tops need to be cleaned regularly, and a scraper can help you remove any food debris or burnt bits quickly and efficiently.
- Tongs: Whether you’re flipping burgers or moving vegetables around, tongs are an essential tool that can make grilling easier and safer.
- Heat-resistant gloves: Even if you’re careful when cooking on a flat top, accidents can happen. Investing in heat-resistant gloves will protect your hands from burns while handling hot food or adjusting the grill temperature.
- Oil bottles: Oiling the flat top before cooking is important to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Using oil bottles with precise nozzles allows for easy distribution of oil on the grill surface.
- Food containers/dispensers: It’s important to keep raw and cooked foods separate while using a flat top grill, so having dedicated containers for each type of food helps maintain hygiene standards.
By using these tools properly, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of your badass new grill safely and effortlessly!
Can I Use a Flat Top Grill Inside to Grill All-Year-Round?
Using indoor bbqs with a flat top grill is a fantastic option to grill all-year-round. With its versatile design, it allows you to enjoy the delicious smoky flavors and grill your favorite meals indoors, regardless of the weather. Whether you crave juicy steaks, savory vegetables, or sizzling burgers, an indoor bbq with a flat top grill provides convenience while maintaining the traditional grilling experience.
Best Flat Top Grills
If you’re looking for a flat top grill, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best flat top grills on the market:
- Blackstone Grills – Blackstone is one of the most popular brands when it comes to flat top grilling. They offer a range of sizes and styles, from portable models to large outdoor cooking stations.
- Camp Chef Grills – Another well-respected brand in the world of outdoor cooking, Camp Chef offers a variety of flat top grills with features like adjustable heat zones and built-in grease management systems.
- Royal Gourmet Grills – This brand may not be as well-known as Blackstone or Camp Chef, but they still make quality flat top grills that are worth considering. Their models come in a range of sizes and include features like side tables and warming racks.
When choosing a flat top grill, consider factors like size (how much cooking surface do you need?), portability (will you be using it at home or taking it camping?), and price (flat top grills can range from under $100 to over $1000).
By doing your research and investing in a quality grill, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious meals cooked on a smooth surface that’s perfect for everything from pancakes to stir fry.
Blackstone Grills
If you’re looking for a high-quality flat top grill, Blackstone Grills is a great place to start. They offer a wide range of gas and propane-powered grills that are perfect for cooking up delicious meals in your backyard or on the go.
One of the things that sets Blackstone Grills apart from other brands is their commitment to quality materials and construction. Their grills are made from durable stainless steel and feature thick cooking surfaces that heat evenly and retain heat well.
Another big advantage of Blackstone Grills is their versatility. Many models come with multiple burners that can be independently controlled, so you can cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.
This makes it easy to prepare complete meals without having to switch between appliances or worry about timing everything perfectly.
In addition, many Blackstone Grills come with convenient features like side shelves for food preparation or storage, built-in grease management systems for easy cleaning, and even integrated lighting so you can see what you’re doing when cooking at night.
Overall, if you want a high-quality flat top grill that will serve all your outdoor cooking needs, take a look at what Blackstone has to offer.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out, their versatile and reliable grills are sure to impress!
Camp Chef Grills
If you’re in the market for a flat top grill and are considering Camp Chef grills, here’s what you need to know.
Camp Chef offers a range of flat top grill options, including both propane and pellet grills. One popular option is the Camp Chef Flat Top Griddle 600, which boasts a 604 square inch cooking surface and four independently controlled burners.
Another option is the Camp Chef Woodwind WIFI Pellet Grill with Sear Box, which not only functions as a traditional grill but also has a sear box that can be used as a flat top surface.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing a Camp Chef grill is that they tend to be on the pricier side compared to some other brands. That being said, many customers swear by their durability and quality of cooking.
Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality flat top grill, it’s worth considering one from Camp Chef. Just make sure to do your research beforehand and choose the model that best fits your needs (and budget).
Royal Gourmet Grills
If you’re looking for a high-quality flat top grill, the Royal Gourmet grills are a great option to consider. These grills provide an excellent combination of performance, durability, and convenience.
One of the standout features of the Royal Gourmet grills is their large cooking surface. With plenty of space to cook multiple items at once, these grills are perfect for feeding your family or hosting backyard parties with friends.
Another benefit of the Royal Gourmet grills is their even heat distribution. Thanks to their powerful burners and well-designed heating system, these grills can easily maintain consistent temperatures across the entire cooking surface.
In addition to being easy to use and highly effective, Royal Gourmet grills are also built to last. Made from durable materials like stainless steel and cast iron, these grills are designed to withstand years of use without showing any signs of wear and tear.
Whether you’re a serious home cook or just looking for an easy way to grill up some burgers and hot dogs on a lazy summer afternoon, a Royal Gourmet grill can help you get the job done right. So why not add one to your outdoor kitchen setup today?
What Are the Benefits of Adding a Flat Top to Your Grill for Versatility?
Adding a flat top to your grill can enhance its versatility. With a flat top grill, you can cook a variety of foods like pancakes, eggs, hamburgers, and vegetables. The flat top grill uses a level cooking surface, making it easier to flip and maneuver food while ensuring even heat distribution for perfect results.
Conclusion
After exploring what a flat top grill is, whether or not you can put a flat top on your existing grill, the benefits of using one, tips for cooking with one and some of the best options available on the market today, we hope that you have a better understanding of what this versatile cooking appliance can do.
If you’re in doubt about whether or not adding a flat top to your current grill setup makes sense for you, consider buying an attachment first. This will give you the chance to test it out before committing to something more permanent.
Whether you’re looking for fast heat up times and even heat distribution or simply want to be able to cook restaurant-quality meals at home, investing in one of these grills could be just what your outdoor kitchen needs.
If you decide that a custom flat-top addition is right for your grilling arsenal but don’t want to tackle building it yourself from scratch, there are plenty of pre-made options available online as well.
Simply search around until you find something within your budget and start enjoying all of the benefits that come along with using one.
Remembering key tips like seasoning your new surface properly before use and keeping everything clean after each meal will help ensure years of successful outdoor cooking experiences ahead!