Imagine waking up on a sunny Saturday morning, the aroma of sizzling bacon and fresh pancakes drifting through your backyard. You’ve got a hungry crew to feed, but your old grill just can’t handle the volume or the variety. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a breakfast-for-dinner enthusiast, the best outdoor flat top griddle can transform your outdoor cooking game. This guide breaks down two standout options to help you find the perfect fit for your patio, camper, or campsite. If you’re exploring broader options, check out our best outdoor griddle roundup for more ideas.
Pros
- Compact and truly portable with secure lid lock and handles
- Versatile temperature range from 180°F to 500°F enables smoking and grilling
- Flame broiler adds high-heat searing capability rarely found in portable pellet grills
- Easy to assemble and operate according to customer reviews
- Produced delicious results for beginners and experienced users alike
Cons
- Smaller cooking area may not suit large families or parties
- Pellet hopper holds only 7 lbs, requiring refills for longer cooks
- Some users reported stickers on lid that need removal before first use (minor issue)
The Pit Boss 150 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker brings real hardwood flavor to your outdoor adventures. Designed as a tabletop model, it is perfect for tailgating, camping, or small backyard cookouts. With 256 square inches of cooking space and a two-tiered rack, you can grill burgers, smoke ribs, or sear steaks all in one portable unit.
Key standout features include an automatic start-up and cool-down system that simplifies operation and cleanup. The flame broiler reaches up to 1,000°F for instant direct heat searing, a rarity in portable pellet grills. Customers praise the consistent temperature control from 180°F to 500°F, making it easy to smoke low and slow or grill hot and fast. Real-world reviews highlight delicious results on everything from tri-tip to jerky.
Build quality is solid with alloy steel construction and porcelain-coated steel grates that resist rust and are easy to clean. The stainless steel handles and matte black finish give it a sleek look. At 43 pounds, it is sturdy but still manageable for transport thanks to the latch-lock lid and dual handles. The 7-pound hopper provides enough pellets for typical cooking sessions, though longer smokes may require a refill.
Potential drawbacks include the relatively small cooking area, which may limit large gatherings. Some beginners may need a short learning curve to master pellet grill techniques. A few customers noted minor assembly quirks, but overall the grill is well-received with a 4.5-star average rating from over 1,200 reviews.
Overall, the Pit Boss 150 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a portable, versatile wood pellet grill that smokes and sears. It delivers authentic hardwood taste in a compact package at a competitive price. Backed by a 5-year warranty, it offers great value for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Pros
- Extra-large cooking surface handles large batches easily.
- Nonstick surface releases food cleanly and simplifies cleaning.
- Removable temperature control and drip tray enhance convenience and health benefits.
- Heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperature across most of the griddle.
- Lightweight and easy to store despite its large cooking area.
Cons
- Heat distribution can be slightly uneven across the entire surface, with some areas cooking faster than others.
- No built-in indicator light to show when the griddle has reached the set temperature.
- The power cord may be short for some kitchen layouts, requiring a nearby outlet.
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is a versatile and spacious countertop cooking appliance designed for families, home cooks, and anyone who loves preparing large breakfasts, burgers, or complete meals in one go. With a generous 10x20 inch nonstick cooking surface, it can easily accommodate several pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage simultaneously, making it ideal for busy mornings or feeding a crowd.
Standout features include an adjustable temperature control that ranges from 200 to 420°F, allowing you to warm tortillas, fry eggs, or sear burgers with precision. The nonstick surface reduces the need for added oils, and the slide-out drip tray collects excess grease for healthier cooking. Real-world performance is impressive: the griddle heats up quickly and maintains even heat across most of the surface, though some users note slight hot spots near the edges.
Design and build quality are solid for the price point. The griddle is lightweight at 4.4 pounds and features a removable temperature control that makes the cooking surface fully immersible and dishwasher safe. The drip tray slides out easily for cleaning, and the overall construction feels durable. However, the lack of a temperature-ready indicator light and a relatively short power cord are minor inconveniences.
Potential drawbacks include the aforementioned uneven heat distribution, which can cause some areas to cook faster than others. This is common among electric griddles and can be managed by rotating food occasionally. Additionally, the temperature control dial could be more precise, but it works well enough for most cooking tasks.
Overall, the Chefman XL Electric Griddle offers excellent value for its price, delivering a large, nonstick cooking surface with convenient features that simplify meal prep and cleanup. It is a reliable choice for families, tailgaters, and anyone needing extra countertop cooking space without breaking the bank.
Brand: Chefman
Model: RJ23-LG-V3
Dimensions: 11.7 inches deep x 21.4 inches wide x 7.4 inches high
Weight: 4.4 pounds
Cooking Surface: 10 x 20 inches
Wattage: 1500 watts
Voltage: 120 volts
Temperature Range: 200 to 420°F
Material: Aluminum with nonstick coating
Color: Black matte
Included Components: User guide
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Certifications: UL approved
Pros
- Large cooking area ideal for feeding crowds or batch cooking
- Four independent heat zones offer versatile temperature control
- Quick and reliable push-button ignition
- Spacious folding side shelves and tool hooks for efficient workflow
- Hood provides weather protection and heat retention
Cons
- Heavy at nearly 128 pounds, making it less portable than smaller models
- Large footprint requires substantial storage space even when folded
- No built-in propane tank holder; an external tank is needed
The Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood is a 36-inch flat-top cooking powerhouse designed for outdoor enthusiasts who love to cook for a crowd. With its Omnivore griddle plate, four independent burners, and a spacious 768-square-inch cooking surface, this griddle is built for versatility and high-volume meal preparation. It is an excellent choice for tailgaters, campers, and backyard chefs who need to whip up everything from breakfast pancakes to dinner burgers and veggies.
Standout features include the four heat zones, which allow you to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously, and the one-button electric ignition that eliminates the need for matches. The Omnivore plate heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, while the built-in wind guards help maintain consistent cooking temperatures even on breezy days. Real-world performance is impressive, with the ability to cook up to 30 burgers at once, making it a top contender for large gatherings.
Design and build quality are solid. The griddle is powder-coated black steel, and the folding side shelves provide ample prep space, with hooks for hanging utensils. The rear grease management system directs drips into a removable cup for easy cleanup. The hood adds versatility, protecting the griddle from the elements and helping to preheat or keep food warm. However, the unit is heavy at nearly 128 pounds, so moving it around requires effort or a dedicated spot.
Potential drawbacks include its size and weight, which limit portability compared to smaller griddles, and the need for an external propane tank (not included). Additionally, assembly is required, and the large footprint may not suit those with limited storage space. Despite these factors, the griddle offers excellent value for its cooking capacity.
Verdict: The Blackstone 36-inch portable griddle with hood is a premium outdoor cooking tool that delivers on performance, capacity, and convenience. It is best suited for serious cooks and large families who prioritize cooking space and versatility over portability. Given its high rating and feature set, it is a strong recommendation for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game.
Buying Guide
Cooking Surface Area and Versatility
When choosing a flat top griddle, size matters. A larger cooking surface lets you prepare multiple items at once, which is perfect for big family breakfasts or backyard parties. The Royal Gourmet GB4000P offers a generous 766 square inches, ideal for feeding a crowd. On the other hand, the EWFEN Reversible Grill/Griddle provides a compact 16.7 by 9.5 inches, perfect for solo cooks, couples, or those with limited counter or campsite space.
Consider how many people you typically cook for and how much storage you have. A foldable or portable option like the EWFEN is great for camping, while a larger unit like the Royal Gourmet suits a dedicated outdoor kitchen setup. For more tips on choosing the right size, you might enjoy our best pit boss smoker guide, which covers similar space considerations.
Heat Output and Control
Even heat distribution and precise temperature control are crucial for perfect searing and even cooking. The Royal Gourmet features four independently controlled stainless steel burners that deliver a total of 52,000 BTU, giving you excellent heat output and the ability to create different heat zones. This means you can sear steaks on one side while keeping pancakes warm on the other.
The EWFEN, while smaller, excels in heat retention thanks to its cast iron construction. It heats up quickly and evenly, though you’ll have less control over separate zones. If you often cook for a crowd or like to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, prioritize high BTU output and independent burners.
Material and Durability
The material of the cooking surface affects both performance and longevity. Pre-seasoned steel, like that on the Royal Gourmet, offers a natural non-stick surface that improves with use and is highly durable against rust and warping. Cast iron, used in the EWFEN, is renowned for its superior heat retention and ability to develop a fantastic seasoning over time, but it requires more maintenance to prevent rust.
Consider how much upkeep you’re willing to commit to. If you want a low-fuss, high-capacity griddle, steel is a solid choice. If you love the traditional cast iron experience and don’t mind regular oiling, the EWFEN is a great pick. For more on maintaining outdoor cookware, check out our Masterbuilt Smoker care tips.
Portability and Storage
Think about where you’ll use your griddle and how you’ll store it. The Royal Gourmet comes with two casters with brakes and two directional wheels, making it easy to move around your patio, plus foldable side tables for compact storage. The EWFEN is lightweight and portable, perfect for taking to the park or campsite, and it fits easily into a backpack or RV.
If you’re short on space or love to travel, a portable option is a must. For those with a permanent outdoor cooking area, a rolling cart with storage shelves is more convenient. For more ideas on outdoor cooking gear, explore our best kitchen products for home chefs list.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between these two excellent flat top griddles comes down to your specific cooking style and space. If you need a large, powerful griddle for family gatherings and frequent outdoor entertaining, the Royal Gourmet GB4000P 4 Burner Propane Gas is a fantastic workhorse. If portability and versatility are your priorities, the EWFEN Reversible Grill/Griddle offers a durable cast iron solution that works anywhere. Whichever you choose, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious meals outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best outdoor flat top griddle for a family?
For a family, the Royal Gourmet GB4000P is an excellent choice due to its large 766 square inch cooking surface and four independent burners. This allows you to cook a full breakfast for everyone at once, from eggs and bacon to pancakes and hash browns. It’s a reliable option for weekend gatherings.
Can I use a flat top griddle on a campfire?
Yes, the EWFEN Reversible Grill/Griddle is specifically designed for campfire use, along with gas stoves, ovens, and induction cooktops. Its cast iron construction withstands high heat and provides even cooking. Just make sure to season it well before and after each use to protect it from the elements.
How do I clean a flat top griddle?
Cleaning methods vary by material. For a steel griddle like the Royal Gourmet, scrape off food residue while warm, then wipe with a paper towel and a small amount of oil. For cast iron like the EWFEN, avoid soap and water; instead, scrub with a brush, rinse with hot water, dry thoroughly, and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. Never put cast iron in the dishwasher.
Are flat top griddles worth it?
Absolutely! Flat top griddles offer unmatched versatility, allowing you to cook everything from breakfast staples to stir-fries and smash burgers. They provide even heat and a large cooking area, making them ideal for outdoor cooking. For more inspiration, check out our best iced tea makers to pair with your new griddle for a perfect summer meal.
