Best Grill Insert for Outdoor Kitchen – 2025 Reviews

Before investing in any grill insert, take an honest look at how you cook outdoors. Are you primarily searing steaks and burgers, or do you enjoy cooking breakfast items, stir-fries, and delicate foods that benefit from flat surface cooking?

Traditional grill inserts excel at high-heat searing and creating those perfect grill marks, while griddle inserts offer superior versatility for everything from pancakes to fajitas. Many outdoor kitchen owners eventually add both to cover all cooking scenarios.

While total BTU output gets most of the attention, how that heat is distributed matters more for consistent cooking. Higher BTUs don’t always mean better performance—look for features like flame stabilizing grids or even burner placement that prevent hot and cold spots.

For griddles, even heat distribution across the entire surface is crucial since you’re cooking directly on the metal. For grills, consistent temperature zones allow you to cook different foods simultaneously at their ideal temperatures.

The materials used in your grill insert directly impact durability, heat retention, and maintenance requirements. 304 stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and longevity, making it ideal for outdoor use. Cast iron provides superior heat retention and even cooking but requires more maintenance to prevent rust.

Pay attention to thinner materials or coatings that might degrade over time—investment in quality construction pays dividends in consistent performance and fewer replacements.

Outdoor kitchen cutouts aren’t standardized, so precise measurements are essential before purchasing any built-in insert. Note both the cutout dimensions (the space in your counter) and overall dimensions to ensure proper fit.

For griddle inserts that convert existing grills, measure your cooking area depth and width carefully. Many modern inserts feature adjustable stands or universal fits, but verifying compatibility prevents installation headaches.

Built-in grills typically require professional gas line installation and precise countertop fitting, while griddle inserts often drop directly into existing grill spaces. Consider whether you’re comfortable with DIY installation or need to budget for professional help.

Natural gas units require permanent plumbing, while propane models offer more flexibility but need tank management. Some higher-end models include detailed templates and instructions that simplify the process significantly.

Outdoor cooking equipment faces harsh conditions—weather, temperature fluctuations, and regular use all take their toll. Stainless steel requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning, while cast iron needs regular seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties and prevent rust.

Look for features like weather-resistant lids, easy-clean surfaces, and accessible grease management systems that make maintenance less of a chore over the long haul.

While premium grill inserts offer impressive features and construction, many budget options deliver excellent performance for typical home use. The key is identifying which features you’ll actually use regularly versus those that are nice-to-have but not essential.

Remember that higher price doesn’t always mean better performance—sometimes a well-designed budget insert outperforms more expensive models for specific cooking tasks. Focus on the features that match your most common cooking scenarios.

Grill inserts feature traditional grates that create sear marks and allow fat to drip away, ideal for meats and vegetables where you want that classic grilled flavor and appearance. Griddle inserts provide a solid flat surface perfect for foods that would fall through grates—think eggs, pancakes, stir-fries, and delicate fish. Many outdoor enthusiasts eventually add both to their kitchen for maximum versatility.

The choice really comes down to your cooking preferences. If you primarily grill meats and want those characteristic marks, a grill insert is your best bet. If you enjoy breakfast foods, Asian cuisine, or anything that benefits from even surface cooking, a griddle insert will serve you better.

Absolutely! Many of the products we’ve reviewed are designed specifically for this purpose. Universal griddle inserts like the Uniflasy model or BBQ Future option drop right into most popular grill brands, instantly converting your cooking surface from grates to flat top.

The key is measuring your grill’s cooking area carefully before purchasing. Look for inserts with adjustable features or universal compatibility to ensure proper fit. This approach gives you the best of both worlds without needing separate appliances.

BTUs matter for how quickly your insert heats up and maintains temperature, but they’re not the only factor. Heat distribution and construction quality often matter more for consistent cooking results. A grill with lower BTUs but better heat retention might outperform a high-BTU model with poor design.

For griddles, look for even heat across the entire surface rather than just total output. For grills, consider how the burners are arranged and whether they provide consistent temperature zones. The best inserts balance sufficient power with intelligent design for reliable performance.

Maintenance varies significantly by material. Stainless steel inserts need regular cleaning with appropriate cleaners to maintain their finish and prevent staining. Cast iron griddles require periodic seasoning to maintain their non-stick properties and prevent rust—this involves applying a thin layer of oil and heating it to create a protective layer.

All inserts benefit from regular grease management—clearing drain holes and channels to prevent buildup. Covering your insert when not in use significantly extends its lifespan by protecting it from weather elements.

This decision often comes down to your existing setup and preferences. Natural gas offers convenience since you’re connected to your home’s gas line—no tanks to refill—but requires professional installation. Propane provides more flexibility in placement and is easier to install yourself, but you’ll need to monitor tank levels and have spares available.

Performance-wise, there’s little difference when the inserts are properly designed for their fuel type. Consider which option aligns with your kitchen layout, budget, and how much you value the convenience of never running out of fuel mid-cook.

Precision is everything with built-in inserts. Start by carefully measuring your countertop cutout—width, depth, and height. Compare these measurements against the manufacturer’s specified cutout dimensions, noting that you typically need a slight clearance for installation.

Many quality manufacturers provide installation templates or detailed dimensional drawings. If possible, dry-fit the insert before permanent installation to verify fit. For griddle inserts that convert existing grills, measure your cooking area dimensions and look for universal fits or adjustable features that accommodate variations between grill models.