Understanding Griddles

Although griddles and grills both serve the same purpose, they do so in different ways. Take a look at the main differences between these two cooking devices to determine which one best fits your outdoor cooking needs.

Understanding Griddles

Griddles consist of a flat, smooth, generally rectangular surface that provides even heat distribution across the entire cooking area. Some models even have a built-in heat source below the surface, while others are designed to be placed over existing heat sources. These versatile devices come in both gas and electric models and are ideal for cooking smaller foods that would fall through the openings between grill grates.

Griddles excel at cooking items such as chopped vegetables, rice, sandwiches, eggs, pancakes, bacon, and hash browns. Their flat surface allows you to cook delicate foods without worrying about losing them to the flames below.

These cooking appliances are a user-friendly option due to their portability, affordability, and indoor-outdoor versatility. They encourage even cooking and can be placed over a grill, campfire, or stovetop burner. Griddles don't produce flames or smoke, making them a safer alternative than grills for family gatherings and enclosed spaces.

Understanding Grills

Grills feature a flat, sometimes multi-tiered surface with metal grates that rest above an open flame. These devices are designed to cook whole vegetables, skewers, and larger pieces of meat—such as chicken breasts, steaks, and sausage links—with that signature charred flavor.

Grills can be fueled by propane gas, wood, charcoal, or electricity. Since they produce intense heat, flames, and smoke, they're built exclusively for outdoor use. Grills can be portable, depending on the size and style. Their trademark feature is the distinctive grill marks they leave on food, creating that classic barbecue appearance.

What Are the Best Cooking Temperatures for Each Device?

While griddles can cook food thoroughly at about 350°F, grills typically produce a temperature of 400°F or higher. That's because grills—particularly propane gas, wood, and charcoal fueled models—produce open flames that generate more intense heat for searing and charring.

Can I Use a Griddle on a Gas Grill?

While you can use a griddle on a gas grill, it requires the use of a griddle accessory. Since griddles cook food at roughly 350°F, they aren't all equipped to handle the high temperatures produced by grills. If you decide to use a griddle on a gas grill, be sure to use one made to be used on a grill, like our Stainless Steel Griddles.

Griddle vs. Grill: Which Is Better?

There's no clear-cut answer as to whether a griddle or a grill is better for cooking. It all depends on a few factors that vary based on your personal preferences and cooking style.

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