Grilling season is here, and whether you're a seasoned pro or a backyard grilling novice, a good grilling basket can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. This comprehensive review dives into eight of the best grilling baskets available in 2020, helping you navigate the options and find the perfect fit for your needs. From sturdy stainless steel designs to convenient nonstick options, we've analyzed key features like size, durability, ease of cleaning, and price point to provide you with an informed decision.This guide covers a variety of baskets, each catering to different grilling styles and preferences. We've considered baskets ideal for vegetables, meats, and even delicate foods, taking into account factors like handle design, heat resistance, and overall versatility. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium, long-lasting investment, our detailed reviews will help you choose the best grilling basket to enhance your next barbecue.
Pros And Cons
- Three inches deep, accommodates a good deal of vegetables
- Allows flavorful smoke to permeate
- Handles on two sides for lifting
- Inexpensive
- Comes in a round version
- Needs a pot holder for lifting during cooking
- Not ideal for meat
- Evenly spaced perforations
- Relatively thick metal transfers plenty of heat
- Suitable for small foods (shrimp, diced meat, vegetables)
- Convenient curved grips
- Almost nine inches square
- Lifetime money-back guarantee
- 11 inches square, fits easily on most grills
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Slightly rounded handles for easy movement
- Dishwasher safe
- Comes in a non-stick version
- Inexpensive
- Suitable for open fires
- Holds plenty of food (7.5 x 11 x 3 inches)
- Wooden handle locks for easy flipping
- Long handle to prevent burning hands
- Durable construction, withstands up to 500°F
- May prevent grill lids from closing
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Char-Broil Nonstick Grilling Basket
This mesh cage, made from strong wire, allows ample smoke and vapor to penetrate the food, enhancing its flavor. Its durable nonstick coating simplifies cleaning, though overcooking should be avoided. It's versatile, suitable for various vegetables and meats.
However, the latch can be difficult to open, and it's challenging to handle when hot. Despite this minor drawback, it remains a popular choice for many users.
Barbecue Masters Wire Mesh Grilling Basket
This 3-inch deep basket accommodates a large quantity of vegetables. Its design facilitates even smoke penetration for enhanced flavor. The handles on either side ease lifting, although a pot holder is recommended for safety during cooking.
Available in round and rectangular versions, it's a very affordable option. However, it's not ideally suited for cooking meat due to its open design.
Yukon Glory Premium Grilling Basket
Suitable for open fires, this basket boasts a large capacity. Its 7.5 x 11 x 3-inch dimensions allow for cooking substantial amounts of food. The wooden handle locks for easy flipping and keeps your hands at a safe distance from the heat.
Its durable construction withstands temperatures up to 500°F. However, its size might prevent grill lids from closing completely.
Yukon Glory Grilling Basket Set
Offering exceptional value, this set includes square, rectangular, and circular baskets. The price is very competitive. While thick and sturdy, the baskets can be prone to discoloration over time.
Ideal for smaller grills, and backed by a three-year warranty, though individual baskets are relatively small. A great budget-friendly option.
Grill Holux Heavy Duty Grilling Basket
Evenly spaced perforations and thick metal construction ensure efficient heat transfer. It's excellent for smaller food items like shrimp, diced meats, and vegetables, minimizing loss to the coals. Convenient curved grips add to its usability.
This approximately 9-inch square basket offers a lifetime money-back guarantee. A strong contender for those needing a reliable, durable basket.
Koala Tech 430 Grilling Basket
Perfect for open pits or campfires, this basket prepares a variety of foods: vegetables, hamburgers, and even whole fish. It features three separate 4.5-inch wide compartments, offering versatility.
Made of stainless steel with a removable locking handle, it includes heat-resistant gloves. A good option for outdoor cooking scenarios.
Cuisinart Grilling Basket
Measuring 11 inches square, this basket fits easily on most grills, leaving ample space for other items. Its durable stainless steel construction and rounded handles facilitate easy movement with tongs.
Dishwasher safe and available in a nonstick version, it's an affordable and convenient option. A practical and user-friendly choice.
Weber 6430 Vault Grilling Basket
Made of thick stainless steel with thin slits, this basket provides a large surface area ideal for roasting delicate foods. Minimizes food falling through the grate, enhancing cooking safety.
Though cleaning requires more effort, its durability and 12-inch square size make it compatible with various grills. A robust and long-lasting choice.
Conclusion
The best grilling basket for you depends on your needs and preferences. The Char-Broil offers nonstick convenience, while the Barbecue Masters is budget-friendly. Yukon Glory provides versatility with its sets, and the Grill Holux offers durability. The Koala Tech is great for campfires, the Cuisinart is easy to use, and the Weber provides excellent roasting capabilities.
Consider factors like size, material, features (nonstick coating, handles), and intended use (vegetables, meats, etc.) when making your decision. Each basket reviewed offers unique advantages, so choose the one that best suits your grilling style and needs.