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Calling all BBQ and outdoor cooking fans—if you’re serious about flavor, it’s time to consider adding a flat top grill to your setup. While we may be grill masters by trade, we know a game-changing cooking appliance when we see one, and flat top griddles are exactly that. From cooking breakfast to stir-fry to searing meats, they offer unmatched versatility and easily fit into areas where traditional gas grills might not. Pair one with your built-in gas grill, and you’ll unlock a whole new level of culinary freedom.
If you're not totally familiar with what a griddle can do—don’t worry. Our griddle buying guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know. Whether you’re shopping for a flat top gas grill or a portable outdoor griddle, our team of experts breaks down the key features, sizes, and benefits. We’ve even included insider tips to help you pick the perfect model for your cooking style. It’s time to solve the griddle riddle and take your outdoor cooking game to the next level!
Selecting the right flat top gas grill starts with understanding which setup best fits your outdoor cooking style—built-in, freestanding, or portable. Each type serves a unique purpose: built-in flat top grills offer a seamless look for custom outdoor kitchens, freestanding griddles deliver flexibility for rearranging your space, and portable options are ideal for tailgating, camping, or small patios. If you're already using a traditional gas grill , consider adding a flat top griddle to your setup for even more cooking versatility. Whether you’re searing steaks, flipping pancakes, or stir-frying veggies, this combo can transform your backyard into a true outdoor kitchen powerhouse.
Elevate your outdoor cooking setup with a built-in flat top griddle! Whether you're designing a full outdoor kitchen or enhancing an existing BBQ island , a built-in griddle is a must-have for serious grillers. Not only does it pair perfectly with a built-in gas grill —giving you the ultimate combo for grilling and searing—but it also adds a sleek, professional touch to your patio. Imagine guests gathered around the bar while you put on a show with hibachi-style cooking right before their eyes. A built-in griddle behind the island lets you serve up everything from breakfast to stir-fry with style.
While cleaning a built-in griddle can take a little extra effort, the cooking versatility and visual appeal make it more than worth it. Just picture a Blaze gas griddle sitting beside a matching Blaze gas grill —it’s a flawless blend of performance and design. Whether you're a weekend BBQ warrior or an everyday outdoor chef, this combo brings both flair and function to your backyard oasis.
Take your backyard cooking to the next level with a freestanding gas griddle—an ideal blend of performance and portability. These mobile flat top griddles come equipped with wheeled carts , making them easy to reposition on your deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen space . Need to shift locations for better lighting, weather protection, or party flow? No problem—just roll it where you want it. When colder months hit, you can store your griddle in a covered area , keeping it protected from the elements.
Freestanding griddles also shine in terms of maintenance and convenience. Their mobility allows for easier access when cleaning , and most models run on propane for quick, reliable heat , though natural gas options are also available. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch or cooking up hibachi at your next backyard bash, a freestanding gas griddle offers the flexibility, convenience, and flavor-packed results every outdoor chef dreams of.
Take your outdoor cooking on the road with a portable flat top grill—your go-to solution for versatility, convenience, and flavor wherever you go. These lightweight, travel-friendly griddles are designed for more than just backyard grilling. From tailgating parties to camping trips and cross-country road adventures, portable griddles let you cook sizzling bacon, pancakes, burgers, and more with ease and control—no matter where you set up.
Looking for a standout model? The Blackstone - 22" Electric Tabletop Griddle - 8001 is a perfect example of compact design meeting powerful performance. Its easy-to-transport frame , quick heat-up time, and spacious cooking surface make it a favorite for on-the-go grillers who don’t want to sacrifice quality. If you're seeking a flexible, efficient, and portable griddle solution , this is your ticket to outdoor cooking freedom.
Deciding between propane and natural gas is an important step in choosing the best fuel type for your flat top griddle. Each option offers unique benefits depending on your cooking style and setup. Propane griddles are highly portable and easy to refuel, making them ideal for tailgating, camping, or moving around your patio. On the other hand, natural gas griddles offer a more permanent solution with continuous fuel supply, perfect for built-in outdoor kitchens.
When comparing these two fuel types, think about installation requirements, mobility needs, and convenience . Propane is great for flexibility, while natural gas is perfect for set-it-and-forget-it backyard grilling. In this section, we’ll break down the key differences to help you determine which fuel source is best for your flat top grill .
Cut costs and simplify your outdoor cooking setup with a natural gas flat top griddle. If your home already has a natural gas line , this option is both cost-effective and low-maintenance . With the help of a licensed plumber to handle the installation, you'll enjoy an uninterrupted fuel supply—no more refilling propane tanks or running out of gas mid-cookout.
While natural gas griddles are generally less portable than propane models, they’re ideal for built-in outdoor kitchens where mobility isn’t a priority. Once installed, you’ll benefit from reliable performance, minimal upkeep, and long-term fuel savings. If you're planning a permanent griddle setup , natural gas is one of the smartest choices you can make.
Propane flat top grills offer unmatched convenience and affordability—especially if you're looking to avoid the cost and complexity of installing a natural gas line. With standard 20-pound propane tanks , you can enjoy full mobility, making it easy to move your grill around the patio, backyard, or even take it on the go . Unlike natural gas griddles that require professional hookup, propane models allow for easy, DIY tank connections , making setup simple and hassle-free.
The only minor trade-off? You’ll need to occasionally refill or exchange propane tanks , which is easy to do at local hardware stores. For heavy grillers, bulk propane refills from nearby dealers offer a cost-effective and convenient solution. Whether you're setting up for weekend cookouts or weeknight dinners, a propane flat top grill delivers the flexibility and power to fuel your outdoor cooking adventures.
Electric griddles provide a hassle-free cooking experience that sets them apart from traditional gas models. With push-button ignition and precision temperature control , you can start cooking instantly—no need for propane tanks or natural gas hookups. These units heat up evenly and quickly , ensuring uniform results across the entire surface.
One of the biggest advantages of electric flat top griddles is their indoor-outdoor flexibility . Whether you're cooking on a patio or in your kitchen, these griddles deliver consistent performance. Thanks to their non-stick surfaces , cleanup is fast and effortless—just wipe it down and you’re done. Plus, most electric griddles are compact, lightweight, and easy to transport , making them perfect for small patios, RVs, apartments, and on-the-go use.
If you’re looking for simplicity, portability, and low-maintenance grilling , an electric griddle is a smart and practical choice for both home cooks and outdoor food lovers alike.
When it comes to gas griddles, size isn’t just about space—it directly affects how much you can cook and how versatile your cooking setup can be. While flat top grills typically have fewer heat zones than traditional gas grills, the overall griddle size still plays a huge role in how efficiently you can prepare multiple dishes at once.
That’s why it’s essential to choose a grill size that fits both your outdoor area and your cooking needs. Unlike modular grills, griddles can’t be expanded once purchased—so getting it right the first time is key. To determine the best flat top grill size , think about how many people you typically cook for, the maximum number you might entertain, and how often you grill for that group. With those numbers in mind, explore the sizing breakdown below to find the perfect fit for your backyard or patio setup.
Small flat top gas grills are the perfect solution for those working with limited space or cooking for just a few people. Ideal for apartment balconies, patios, RVs, and tailgating , these compact 2-burner griddles offer surprising power and versatility in a smaller footprint. Despite their size, they heat up quickly and provide ample cooking surface for everyday meals like burgers, eggs, veggies, and more. Lightweight and easy to move, small gas griddles are perfect for on-the-go grilling or casual weeknight dinners. If you’re looking for a space-saving, budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent results, a small flat top gas grill is a smart pick for convenience and performance.
Medium flat top gas grills offer the perfect balance between size and versatility, making them ideal for most families and backyard grillers. With a 3-burner setup , these griddles provide more cooking zones , allowing you to prepare multiple dishes at once—think pancakes on one side, bacon on the other, and veggies in between. A medium-sized griddle typically fits comfortably on patios or decks while offering enough cooking space for 4–8 people, making it great for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers. Whether you're upgrading from a smaller model or looking for your first flat top grill, a medium flat top gas grill hits the sweet spot for capacity, control, and performance.
Large flat top gas grills are built for serious outdoor chefs and entertainers who need maximum cooking capacity and power. Featuring 4 or more burners , these grills offer expansive cooking surfaces perfect for hosting big backyard gatherings, meal prepping, or feeding large families. A large flat top griddle lets you cook a full breakfast spread, lunch, and dinner all at once—burgers, stir-fry, and sides with room to spare. They often include advanced features like side shelves, grease management systems, and high BTU output for consistent heat across every inch. If you want a commercial-style griddle experience right in your backyard, a large flat top gas grill delivers unmatched performance, convenience, and versatility.
Take your flat top griddle cooking to the next level with the right accessories. Our grilling experts strongly recommend Backyard Hibachi accessories , known for their quality and performance, but there are also several universal must-haves that can elevate any setup. Squeeze bottles are ideal for evenly applying oil and sauces across the cooktop, while long-handled spatulas provide safety and control when flipping or stirring food on a hot surface.
For even more versatility, try a melting dome —perfect for steaming veggies or melting cheese to perfection on burgers and sandwiches. When it comes to cookware, opt for stainless steel over cast iron to prevent rust and scratching that can damage your griddle's surface. With the right tools in hand, you’ll protect your investment and unlock new levels of flavor and efficiency in your outdoor cooking.
Before purchasing a gas griddle, it’s important to evaluate a few key features to ensure it fits your cooking needs and outdoor space. Start by considering the griddle size —larger models offer more cooking area and multiple heat zones , while compact units are better for small patios or on-the-go grilling. Pay attention to the BTU output , which determines how quickly and evenly the griddle heats up. Also, think about fuel type— propane griddles offer portability, while natural gas models are ideal for permanent setups. Look for easy-to-clean surfaces , sturdy construction, and optional accessories like side shelves or grease management systems. Keeping these factors in mind will help you choose the best gas griddle for your lifestyle and cooking goals.
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