A griddle insert can add space for pancakes, eggs, burgers, vegetables, and other foods that are awkward to cook between grill grates. The right choice depends on your grill’s dimensions and layout: some inserts are made for specific models, while universal plates need careful measuring before you buy. These five options range from a grill-specific Weber insert to larger cast-iron plates for different outdoor cooking setups.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Size or fit | Material | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber Rust-Resistant Griddle Insert | Select Spirit and Searwood grills | Pre-seasoned carbon steel | A compatible Weber grill and a full-surface conversion |
| GORGERILA Universal Cast Iron Griddle | 17 × 13 inches | Cast iron with matte enamel surface | A compact plate for varied grill types |
| Uniflasy Cast Iron Griddle | 25 × 16 inches | Heavy-duty iron/metal | A large cooking area and broad stated compatibility |
| Charbroil Performance Series Griddle Insert | 270 square inches; sits on grill grates | Porcelain-coated cast iron | Quick setup on a gas grill |
| BBQ Future Universal Cast Iron Griddle | 23 × 16 inches | Cast iron | A large surface with included spatulas |
Our Picks: Best Griddle Insert For Outdoor Kitchen reviews
1. Weber Rust-Resistant Griddle Insert: Best for Compatible Weber Grills
This Weber insert is designed to turn the cooking surface of certain Spirit and Searwood grills into a griddle. Its grill-specific fit is the key advantage: if your model is on the compatibility list, it can offer a more integrated alternative to a plate that simply rests on top of the grates.
The insert is made from carbon steel and comes pre-seasoned, so the supplied product details say it is ready to use out of the box. A raised rim helps keep food, oil, and seasonings on the cooking surface, while the grease management design works with the grill’s existing collection system. The thick construction is intended to help resist warping and provide even heat for browning, sautéing, and searing.
The main drawback is that this is not a universal choice. Confirm your exact grill model and configuration before ordering; a similar-looking Spirit grill may not be included in the stated fit range. A storage bag is mentioned as a separate purchase, not as an included accessory.
Pros:
- Designed to convert the full grilling surface on compatible models
- Pre-seasoned carbon steel is described as ready to use
- Rimmed edges and integrated grease management help contain mess
- Thick construction is designed to help resist warping
Cons:
- Fits only specified Spirit and Searwood grill models
- Storage bag is sold separately
Verdict: Choose this insert if you own a listed Weber grill and want a close-fitting, full-surface griddle conversion; skip it if your grill model is not confirmed as compatible.
2. GORGERILA 17 × 13-Inch Cast Iron Griddle: Best Compact Universal Option
At 17 by 13 inches, this GORGERILA plate is a smaller option than the two large universal griddles in this guide. Its cast-iron construction and reinforced bottom are intended to provide a sturdy cooking surface for gas, charcoal, and electric grills, as well as stovetops and other cooking setups listed by the maker.
The surface is described as matte enamel, a design intended to make food residue easier to remove. A grease groove helps collect excess oil, which can be useful when cooking bacon, burgers, or other foods that release fat. Its more compact footprint may also leave part of a grill’s cooking area open for direct grilling, depending on the grill’s layout.
“Universal” does not mean it will fit every outdoor kitchen. Check the plate’s dimensions against the usable area of your grill and make sure it can sit securely without blocking important airflow or grease channels. Its smaller surface also offers less room for cooking several dishes at once than the 23- and 25-inch options.
Pros:
- Compact size suits smaller grills or partial-surface cooking
- Cast-iron construction with a reinforced bottom
- Matte enamel surface is described as easier to clean
- Grease groove helps collect excess oil
Cons:
- Smaller cooking area than the larger plates in this guide
- Dimensions and grill layout still need to be checked before purchase
Verdict: Consider this griddle if you want a compact cast-iron plate and have verified that its dimensions work with your grill.
3. Uniflasy 25 × 16-Inch Griddle: Best for a Broad Cooking Surface
The Uniflasy griddle measures 25 by 16 inches, making it one of the largest plates in this selection. That extra space can help when you want to cook several ingredients together, such as meat, vegetables, and breakfast foods. The maker lists compatibility with many grill brands and models, but the dimensions should still be your first check.
Its design includes raised sides to help keep food on the plate, a groove for collecting grease, and side handles for moving the griddle. Cutout side panels are intended to allow airflow around the surface. The product description identifies it as heavy-duty iron or metal and describes the cooking surface as nonstick; check the listing’s care information for the exact surface and maintenance instructions.
A large plate can cover much of a grill’s cooking area, which may limit access to the grates underneath. It may also be more cumbersome to lift and store than the smaller GORGERILA option. The broad compatibility list is helpful, but it is not a substitute for checking your grill’s actual dimensions and grate arrangement.
Pros:
- Large 25 × 16-inch cooking area
- Raised sides help keep food contained while cooking
- Grease groove and side handles support practical use
- Listed compatibility covers many grill brands and models
Cons:
- Large footprint may cover most or all of the grill grates
- Broad fit claims still require a dimension and layout check
Verdict: This is a strong option to consider when cooking space is your priority and your grill can safely accommodate its full dimensions.
4. Charbroil Performance Series Griddle Insert: Best for Fast, Simple Setup
This Charbroil insert sits on top of gas grill grates to create a 270-square-inch flat cooking area. The maker describes setup as a matter of placing it on the grates, preheating, and cooking, with no seasoning or prep required. That straightforward approach makes it appealing if you want to add griddle cooking without replacing grill parts or buying a separate appliance.
The cooking surface is porcelain-coated cast iron, which is described as providing steady heat and natural nonstick performance. A built-in grease slot directs drippings toward the grill’s grease management system, and the surface is specified as safe for metal utensils. Its 12-inch flat-top depth offers space for griddle meals, though it is smaller than the two largest plates here.
Because it rests on top of the grates, fit and stability matter. Confirm that its shape and dimensions work with your grill before buying, and check that the grease slot lines up with a suitable collection path. It is listed as a gas-grill accessory, so it is not the best match if you need an insert specifically for a charcoal or electric setup.
Pros:
- Simple placement-on-grates setup
- Porcelain-coated cast iron is described as rust-resistant
- Grease slot directs drippings toward the grill’s collection system
- Metal-utensil-safe surface according to the product details
Cons:
- Designed for gas grills, not a stated all-fuel universal fit
- Cooking area is smaller than the largest options in this guide
Verdict: Pick this model if quick setup on a compatible gas grill matters more to you than a full-grill cooking surface.
5. BBQ Future 23 × 16-Inch Cast Iron Griddle: Best for a Large Surface and Included Tools
This BBQ Future griddle offers a 23 by 16-inch surface for cooking several foods at once. The package is listed as including a three-piece stainless-steel spatula set, so it may suit shoppers who want basic griddle tools included with the plate. Its stated applications include gas and charcoal grills, electric grills, stovetops, and outdoor burners.
The cast-iron plate has side handles, high sides, and a full-width grease tray intended to help contain food and manage drippings. Its product details describe a treated, nonstick surface and also advise seasoning the griddle before first use. Since those care claims do not fully align, read the supplied use instructions and follow the maintenance guidance that comes with the product.
This plate is slightly smaller than the Uniflasy model but still takes up a substantial area on many grills. Its universal-fit wording should be treated as a starting point, not a guarantee: check the cooking surface dimensions and make sure the plate does not interfere with the grill’s controls, lid, or grease system.
Pros:
- Large 23 × 16-inch surface for cooking multiple foods
- Includes a three-piece spatula set
- High sides and a full-width grease tray help manage food and drippings
- Listed for use across several grill and cooking-appliance types
Cons:
- Large size may not suit smaller grills
- Product details call for seasoning, so check care instructions before use
Verdict: Consider this plate if you want a generous cooking area and included spatulas, and are comfortable checking fit and following the griddle’s care directions.
How to Choose a Griddle Insert for Your Outdoor Kitchen
Measure the Grill’s Usable Cooking Area
Start with the grill, not the product’s “universal” label. Measure the area where the insert will sit and compare it with the plate’s full dimensions. Check whether handles, raised sides, or a grease channel add to the footprint. An insert that is too large may not sit securely, while a smaller one may leave useful grill space available for cooking over the grates.
Check the Exact Grill Fit
A model-specific insert, like the Weber, may provide a more integrated fit, but only for the listed grill models. Universal plates offer more flexibility across grill types, yet their fit depends on the grill’s grate layout and dimensions. Confirm the model and configuration in the product details before ordering rather than relying on brand name alone.
Choose a Material That Matches Your Routine
The options here include carbon steel and cast iron. The Weber’s carbon-steel plate is listed as pre-seasoned, while the cast-iron options vary in surface treatment and care directions. Review the specific maintenance instructions before use, especially if the product description mentions seasoning. Also consider how you will lift, clean, and store the plate; a larger metal insert can require more space and care than a compact one.
Think About Cooking Space and Grill Flexibility
A large griddle can make it easier to prepare several foods at once, but it may cover most of the grill’s direct-cooking area. A smaller plate may let you use grates beside it, depending on your grill. Decide whether you want to convert nearly the whole cooking surface or add a smaller flat-top zone for a few items.
Look at Grease Control and Edge Design
Grease grooves, slots, trays, and rimmed edges serve different purposes. A groove or tray can help collect drippings, while raised sides help contain food and oil as you turn ingredients. On inserts that rely on the grill’s existing grease system, check that the channel is positioned to work with your grill. Good grease control can make cooking and cleanup more manageable, but it does not remove the need to clean the grill and insert as directed.
Confirm Fuel Type and Placement
Some plates are described for gas, charcoal, or electric grills, while others are specifically listed for gas grills or certain grill families. Check the maker’s stated use and consider how the plate sits on the cooking surface. An insert that rests on top of grates may have different fit needs from one designed to replace or cover a grill’s full cooking surface.
Review What Comes in the Package
Included accessories can change the overall value of an insert. The BBQ Future option lists a spatula set, while the Weber storage bag is sold separately. Check the package details so you know whether tools or storage accessories are included, and follow the product’s care instructions before the first cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a universal griddle insert fit any outdoor grill?
No. “Universal” describes a range of intended uses, not a guaranteed fit for every grill. Compare the insert’s dimensions with your grill’s cooking area and check that it sits securely without blocking the lid, controls, airflow, or grease management system.
Can I use a griddle insert on a charcoal grill?
Some products in this guide are listed for charcoal grills, including the GORGERILA, Uniflasy, and BBQ Future options. The Charbroil insert is described for gas grills. Always follow the product’s stated fuel compatibility and use instructions.
Do cast-iron griddle inserts need seasoning?
Care requirements depend on the specific surface and product. The BBQ Future description advises seasoning before first use, while the GORGERILA surface is described as matte enamel. Read the instructions for your chosen model instead of assuming all cast-iron inserts have the same preparation needs.
What size griddle insert should I buy?
Choose a size that fits the grill’s usable cooking area and matches how much food you plan to cook. The 17 × 13-inch GORGERILA is the most compact option here, while the 25 × 16-inch Uniflasy is the largest. Leave room for safe placement and consider whether you want to keep some grates uncovered.
Can a griddle insert replace a standalone flat-top grill?
An insert can add flat-top cooking to a compatible grill, but it uses that grill’s existing cooking area and heat source. It may not offer the same dedicated workspace or layout as a standalone flat-top appliance. Check the insert’s size and your grill’s capabilities to see if it suits your cooking needs.
How should I choose between a grill-specific insert and a universal plate?
Choose a grill-specific insert if your exact model is listed and you want a more tailored fit. A universal plate can work across a wider range of setups, but it places more responsibility on you to confirm dimensions, stability, and grease alignment.
Final Recommendation
For owners of a compatible Spirit or Searwood grill, the Weber is the most direct choice because it is designed for those models and is intended to cover the full grilling surface. If you need a more flexible option, the BBQ Future and Uniflasy plates offer large cooking areas, while the smaller GORGERILA may be easier to fit on a compact setup. Whichever you choose, verify the dimensions and grill compatibility before ordering.