Finding the right grill with a side griddle means prioritizing versatility, surface area, and ease of use for outdoor cooking. This guide highlights five top options that combine grilling and griddling in one station, each suited to different backyard needs—from family weekends to backyard parties or camping adventures. The top picks balance large cooking areas, potent heat, and practical features like built-in side burners and easy cleanup.
Summary table of chosen products:
| Product | Surface Area | BTUs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAUDLIFE 3-in-1 Grill Griddle Combo | 702 sq in | 50,000 | Flat-top griddling and searing in one station |
| LAUDLIFE 5-Burner Grill Griddle Combo | 702 sq in | 50,000 | Family gatherings, more cooking power |
| LMNOCHM Gas Grill and Griddle Combo | ≈49,000 BTU total | 49,000 | Modular layout, versatile modules |
| Royal Gourmet PD4001 4-Burner Griddle + Cart | 389 sq in griddle + 153 grill | 34,000 | Flexible stand/tabletop use |
| Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3-Burner Griddle Combo | 364 sq in total | 29,000 | Portable, compact yet functional |
LAUDLIFE 3-in-1 Propane Griddle and Grill Station
- What it is: A 3-in-1 system that switches between flat-top griddling, gas grilling, and a side burner for soups or sides.
- Best for: Griddlers and grill lovers who want one station for eggs, steaks, and sauces without flavor compromise.
- Why it stands out: A large 702 sq in cooking area and 50,000 BTUs across five burners support high-heat searing and wide-surface cooking at once.
- Consideration: The breadth of surface requires adequate outdoor space and careful setup for wind protection if used in open areas.
LAUDLIFE 5-Burner Propane Grill Griddle Combo
- What it is: A 3-in-1 setup with a side burner and large cooking space, built around a heavy-duty grilling platform.
- Best for: Larger gatherings where more simultaneous cooking tasks are needed, such as burgers, veggies, and sauces.
- Why it stands out: The 702 sq in area and 50,000 BTUs enable efficient, diverse cooking tasks on a single unit.
- Consideration: Like the 3-in-1 version, it benefits from stable installation and weather protection during use.
LMNOCHM Gas Grill and Griddle Combo
- What it is: A modular 4-burner propane grill with porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates and a double-wall insulated lid for versatile outdoor cooking.
- Best for: Grilling enthusiasts who want interchangeable griddle and grill modules and solid heat retention.
- Why it stands out: Independent burner control plus a dedicated side burner deliver flexibility for sauces and sides while maintaining sear performance.
- Consideration: The modular design may require some assembly time and careful alignment of modules for best performance.
Royal Gourmet PD4001 4-Burner Griddle with Cart
- What it is: A four-burner grill-griddle combo with a removable standing cart, convertible to tabletop use.
- Best for: Those who want a portable, flexible setup that can adapt to different cooking environments, tailgating to backyard.
- Why it stands out: The cart and hood design support protection when not in use and mobility when needed.
- Consideration: The 389 sq in griddle area plus 153 sq in grill space make it important to plan layout for multi-zone cooking.
Royal Gourmet GD401C 4-Burner Griddle and Grill Combo
- What it is: A dual-zone cooking system with two separate areas—griddle and grill—across four burners with a substantial total BTU output.
- Best for: Outdoor cooks who need distinct zones for breakfast-style griddling and high-heat grilling at the same time.
- Why it stands out: Large total cooking space (584 sq in) helps manage multi-dish meals efficiently.
- Consideration: Heavy enough to require stable setup; consider adding protective cover for longevity when stored outside.
Charbroil Pro Series With Amplifire Infrared Grilling
- What it is: A modular cooking system blending gas grilling with a griddle option and an infrared heat approach for faster cooking.
- Best for: Grilling fans who want rapid preheat and consistent high-heat performance with a simple transition to griddle mode.
- Why it stands out: The ability to switch to different cooking modes quickly supports diverse menus.
- Consideration: Infrared elements can make heat feel intense; proper air flow and temperature control are essential to avoid overcooking.
Buying Guide
Key decision factors help identify the right grill with a side griddle for your space and cooking style.
- Cooking area and layout: Look for square inches of griddle and grill space and whether modules are interchangeable. A larger surface supports family meals and multi-dish planning.
- BTU and heat control: Higher BTUs enable quick searing, but precise burner control matters for even cooking. Piezo ignition improves startup reliability.
- Portability vs. permanence: Cart-style units offer mobility; built-in or cabinet-style designs are more stable for a fixed patio.
- Durability and materials: Porcelain-enameled or cast-iron grates resist wear and deliver even heat. Double-wall lids aid heat retention and energy efficiency.
- Maintenance and cleanup: Removable griddles and easy-access grease management simplify routine cleaning and seasonal care.
- Ventilation and protection: Ensure proper wind protection for open spaces and consider covers to extend lifespan when not in use.
- Best-use scenarios: Choose based on typical meals—eggs and pancakes on a flat top, versus steaks and vegetables on grates, or sauces on a side burner.
- Budget and space: Larger, more modular systems offer versatility but require more space and investment. Smaller portable options suit patios and camps.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a “griddle and grill combo”? It combines a flat-top griddle with a traditional grill, often including a side burner for sauces or soups.
- Is a side burner essential? Not always, but it adds flexibility for sides and sauces without interrupting grill workflow.
- Can these units be used in camping? Some models offer portable configurations or compact footprints ideal for tailgating and camping.
- Do they require assembly? Most multi-module units require assembly; refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for steps and safety tips.
- What maintenance is recommended? Regularly season non-stick or ceramic-coated surfaces, clean grates after cooking, and cover units to protect from the elements.
- How should I place a grill with a side griddle? Position on a flat, stable surface with good clearance from walls and flammable objects, and ensure proper ventilation.
Note on Safety and Usage
Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines for gas connections, ignition, and storage. Use appropriate ventilation when operating outdoors and monitor for gas leaks before each use.