This Grill Grates Griddle review dives into the performance of these popular cooking accessories, examining whether they deliver on their promises. We put the Grill Grates to the test on a Camp Chef flat top grill, evaluating their heat distribution, cooking times, and ease of cleanup. From initial setup and preheating to cooking burgers side-by-side on the griddle and the grates, we meticulously documented our experience to provide a comprehensive assessment. This review will explore the advantages and disadvantages, ultimately determining if the Grill Grates are a worthwhile investment or a disappointing addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal.Our experiment involved a direct comparison of cooking performance between the griddle surface and the Grill Grates. We observed significant differences in heat distribution, cooking times, and the final product. This detailed account will help you decide if the convenience and purported benefits of the Grill Grates outweigh the potential drawbacks highlighted in our practical test. We'll analyze the perfect fit, the ease of cleanup, and ultimately, whether the uneven heat distribution compromises the quality of your cooked food.
Read more: Traeger Grill Grates: Top 10 Best Reviews & Buying Guide
Initial Setup and Preheat
The Grill Grates arrived brand new and the instructions were clear: preheat the griddle before placing the grates. I followed the recommendation and applied cooking spray, as suggested. The grates heated up relatively quickly, reaching temperatures between 160°F and 200°F within a minute or two. However, I noticed a significant temperature difference between the front and back of the grates.
Even after preheating, the back of the grates remained hotter than the front. The griddle itself reached around 400°F on a medium setting. This temperature discrepancy concerned me, suggesting potential inconsistencies in heat distribution.
Grill Grates Fit and Design
The 18.5-inch Grill Grates fit perfectly on my Camp Chef flat top grill. The snug fit prevents grease from dripping over the sides, which is crucial for easy cleanup. I appreciate the seamless integration and the lack of overhang.
The design ensures all grease drains directly into the grease trap, making cleanup easier. This precise fit is a key advantage of these grates, eliminating mess and ensuring efficient cooking.
Cooking Performance Comparison
I cooked two frozen burger patties simultaneously – one directly on the griddle and the other on the Grill Grates. This comparison highlighted the impact of the grates' design on cooking time and results. The patty on the griddle cooked significantly faster, reaching higher temperatures more quickly.
The burger cooked directly on the griddle developed a nice crust and reached an internal temperature of 145°F-146°F. In contrast, the patty on the Grill Grates was considerably slower to cook and reached the same temperature much later, indicating uneven heat distribution from the Grates.
Temperature Issues and Conclusion
Throughout the cooking process, the Grill Grates struggled to maintain a consistently high temperature. Even on a high setting, the grates took an unusually long time to heat up and often failed to reach the desired cooking temperature. This hindered the cooking process and resulted in unevenly cooked food.
Despite the initial promise, the Grill Grates for the griddle failed to live up to expectations. The uneven heating and slow cooking times significantly impacted performance. While the fit and design were positive aspects, the inconsistent heat distribution makes me hesitant to recommend this product. For a smoother, faster cook, sticking with the griddle directly is a better option.
