Essential Types of Outdoor Grills for Every Cook

Outdoor grilling options are diverse, varying in size, cooking style, and food placement. Many manufacturers also offer customized designs, enhancing the variety. Choosing the right grill depends on your specific needs. Here’s a guide to different types of outdoor grills categorized by their cooking methods.

Open Flame Grills
These straightforward grills feature a metal or stone box with a heat source below. They work with charcoal, wood, or propane.
Food is cooked directly over the flames, perfect for small, tender cuts like steaks, kebabs, vegetables, or fish.

The smoker is a traditional grill that imparts a smoky flavor to foods. Companies like Traeger, Weber, Pit Boss, and Oklahoma Joe’s manufacture these units. They operate primarily through indirect heat with wood smoke, ideal for low-and-slow cooking of ribs, briskets, and more.

Covered Grills
Grills with tall lids that encompass the fire are known as covered grills. They allow for indirect cooking and smoking and are suitable for thicker cuts like steaks, pork, or whole poultry such as chicken or duck.

Rotisserie Grills
These grills feature a rotating spit that ensures even cooking. Ideal for whole birds, roasts, or pork, they produce crispy exteriors while keeping meats tender and juicy. Top brands include Traeger, Napoleon, and Broil King.

Vessel Grills
Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, vessel grills are made from thick ceramic walls. They use radiant heat from sidewalls and direct heat from charcoal, perfect for flatbreads, kebabs, fish, lamb, and grilled cheeses.