Best Flat Top Griddles For Outdoor Cooking
Fire loves a good flat top, and you’re about to stack the deck with griddles built to take the heat. I’ve cooked enough eggs, steaks, and onions on these beasts to know what matters: fit, heat retention, and how long they’ll keep the crust on your sear. From cast iron giants to nanoceramic plates, this round-up covers the durable workhorses that turn weather into flavor. Mastery comes from good gear and real fire.
⚡ Quick Answer: Best Bbq
Best for Large Griddles: Uniflasy Nonstick Griddle for Gas Grill, Cast Iron Griddle for Outdoor Gas & Charcoal Grills, 25" x16" Nonstick Coating FlatTop Insert Cooking Pan for Weber Charbroil Camp Chef Grill
$88.33 — Check price on Amazon →
Table of Contents
- Main Points
- Our Top Picks
- Uniflasy Nonstick Griddle for Gas Grill, Cast Iron Griddle for Outdoor Gas & Charcoal Grills, 25" x16" Nonstick Coating FlatTop Insert Cooking Pan for Weber Charbroil Camp Chef Grill
- Utheer 25" x 16" Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle for Gas & Charcoal Grills – Universal Flat Top with Grease Groove, Reinforced Ridges & High Sidewalls, Great for Parties, Camping & Tailgating
- Nonstick Nanoceramic Griddle Plate, Pre-Seasoned Heavy-Duty Flat Top Insert, Universal Outdoor Cooking Griddle for Gas Grill/Charcoal/Gas Stove, Camping, Tailgating, Parties & Backyard BBQ, 17"x13"
- Onlyfire Universal BBQ Griddle with Handles for Most Grills, Ceramic Coated Non-stick Flat Top Griddle for Outdoor Cooking, 18"L x 12.6"W x 2.8"H "
- Lodge Double Play Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle - Dual-Sided with Double Burner Configuration for Eggs, Pancakes, Burgers & More - Seasoned, Non-Toxic Cookware - Heavy-Duty Grill Pan - Black
- Griddle for Gas Grill, 17" x13” Universal Griddle Flat Top Plate with Removable Handles for Charcoal/Gas Stove, Nonstick Coating Cooking Griddle Plate Insert for Camping, Tailgating, Parties
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Main Points
- Check fit and mounting: dimensions matter (these options run 25×16, 18×12, or 17×13), and confirm grill compatibility and handle clearance before you buy.
- Surface matters: cast iron delivers heat retention and the sear you crave, but needs seasoning; nanoceramic or ceramic coatings cut sticking and cleanup but may take a hit on longevity.
- Grease management wins cooks: a grease groove or tray helps channel drippings and reduces flare-ups, while high sidewalls keep the sauce from splashing.
- Portability and versatility: look for removable handles or double-sided designs for travel, tailgates, or camping—these let you do breakfast, burgers, and fajitas without swapping pans.
- Durability is king: reinforced ridges, heavy-duty construction, and coatings that endure weather and heat mean this gear outlasts the season and keeps flavor dialed in.
Our Top Picks
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Uniflasy Nonstick Griddle for Gas Grill, Cast Iron Griddle for Outdoor Gas & Charcoal Grills, 25" x16" Nonstick Coating FlatTop Insert Cooking Pan for Weber Charbroil Camp Chef Grill
🏆 Best For: Best for Large Griddles
Best for Large Griddles because this Uniflasy insert turns a wide grill into a true flat-top station. The 25" by 16" surface spans most grills, covering two burners on many gas setups and leaving room to push sides at once. A cast-iron core with a nonstick coating delivers steady heat and easy release, so you’re not fighting sticking debris or hot spots. It’s the upgrade that turns everyday grilling into flat-top precision, and that earns the Best for Large Griddles nod.
Key features and real-world benefits: A generous 25" x 16" flat-top insert, built on solid cast iron with a nonstick coating for fast cleanup. It fits gas and charcoal grills—Weber, Char-Broil, Camp Chef and more—so you can swap in a giant, stable cooking surface without buying a new grill. At $88.33 and 4.4 stars, it’s a bargain for the volume and control you gain, from eggs to smash burgers to pancakes.
Who should buy this and when: If you cook for a crowd, run weekend gatherings, or want to run multiple dishes at once, this is your move. Perfect for large grills that normally sip space, it makes sense on Weber, Char-Broil, Camp Chef setups, or any grill with a compatible grate width. When you want a dedicated flat-top surface without the commitment of a standalone griddle, this fits the bill.
Honest drawbacks or caveats: It’s heavy, so plan for a stable mounting and a solid place to flip it in. The nonstick coating isn’t indestructible—careful cleaning and light seasoning extend life, and avoid metal utensils that can scratch it. It’s not a featherweight accessory, but for real fire and big-flattie cooking, it’s worth the effort. Mastery comes from good gear and real fire.
✅ Pros
- Huge 25x16 surface
- Nonstick coating eases cleanup
- Durable cast iron heat retention
❌ Cons
- Heavy to lift and position
- Requires seasoning/maintenance
- Key Ingredient: Cast iron with nonstick coating
- Scent Profile: Neutral, easy cleanup
- Best For: Best for Large Griddles
- Size / Volume: 25" x 16" insert
- Special Feature: Nonstick surface for quick release
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Utheer 25" x 16" Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle for Gas & Charcoal Grills – Universal Flat Top with Grease Groove, Reinforced Ridges & High Sidewalls, Great for Parties, Camping & Tailgating
🏆 Best For: Best Cast Iron Surface
Best Cast Iron Surface earns this spot because it finally gives you a true flat-top experience on any grill. The Utheer 25" x 16" pre-seasoned cast iron griddle is ready to roll out of the box, delivering solid, even heat across a wide swath of surface. The grease groove traps fats and sauces, while reinforced ridges combat warping and high sidewalls keep juices from running over the edge. It turns a standard grill into a dependable flat-top station for eggs, burgers, fajitas, and more.
Key features shine in real use. It’s universal for gas and charcoal grills, so you don’t have to buy a new setup to get a proper griddle. The surface arrives pre-seasoned, meaning you can start cooking right away and build your own durable patina fast. A generous 25" x 16" footprint gives you room for multiple burgers, onions, peppers, and eggs without crowding. The grease groove channels drippings away from heat, reducing flare-ups, while reinforced ridges deliver even heat and prevent the occasional bow. High sidewalls keep sauces and juices contained, so your cook surface stays clean and efficient. At $66.79 and a solid 4.4-star rating, it’s hard to beat this value for a true cast-iron flat top.
Who should buy this and when: backyard bosses feeding crowds, campers, tailgaters, or anyone turning a grill into a full-on flat-top kitchen. If you want one pan that handles breakfast, lunch, and dinner—without swapping grills—this is your move. It’s ideal for parties, weekend gatherings, and camping trips where you need versatility, durability, and the ability to sear, sauté, and simmer in one hot, iron surface. If your setup demands a rugged cast-iron workhorse that sits in place and performs, you’ll love this when you’re feeding friends and family.
Drawbacks? It’s heavy and awkward to move, so recruit a helping hand or a solid plan for installation. It also requires regular seasoning to maintain the surface’s nonstick quality and prevent rust—you don’t buy cast iron to ignore it. If you don’t stay on top of upkeep, the patina can dull and performance can drop, especially with high-mileage use.
✅ Pros
- Large 25" x 16" cooking area
- Grease groove channels drippings away
- Ridges for even heat and durability
❌ Cons
- Heavy to move
- Seasoning maintenance required
- Key Ingredient: Pre-seasoned cast iron
- Scent Profile: Lightly seasoned iron aroma
- Best For: Best Cast Iron Surface
- Size / Volume: 25" x 16" flat top
- Special Feature: Grease groove, reinforced ridges, high sidewalls
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Nonstick Nanoceramic Griddle Plate, Pre-Seasoned Heavy-Duty Flat Top Insert, Universal Outdoor Cooking Griddle for Gas Grill/Charcoal/Gas Stove, Camping, Tailgating, Parties & Backyard BBQ, 17"x13"
🏆 Best For: Best Nanoceramic Nonstick
This plate earns Best Nanoceramic Nonstick for real-world release: a true nonstick layer that shrugs off sticky proteins and crust, plus a rugged 17x13 insert that takes a beating from smoke and heat without folding.
Pre-seasoned and ready to roll, it cleans up fast, resists scratches, and doubles as a portable flat top for camp kitchens. It fits gas grills, charcoal setups, and many gas stoves, turning any grill surface into a sturdy, high-heat griddle. The even heat distribution delivers fast sears, delicate eggs, and crisp veggies without sticking.
Who should buy this? Tailgaters, campers, backyard pitmasters who want a quick, clean flat top without breaking the bank. If you cook eggs, smash burgers, or stir-fry on the go, this plate delivers. It's ideal for parties and everyday grilling when you need a travel-ready griddle surface.
Drawbacks? The coating can wear with harsh scrubs. Not a heavy-duty steel, so it can warp if overheated. Occasional re-seasoning helps extend life. Mastery comes from good gear and real fire.
✅ Pros
- Nonstick nanoceramic coating
- Pre-seasoned and ready to use
- Universal fit for most grills
❌ Cons
- Coating wears with harsh scrubs
- Warp if overheated
- Key Ingredient: Nanoceramic coating
- Scent Profile: Neutral odor when heated
- Best For: Best Nanoceramic Nonstick
- Size / Volume: 17" x 13"
- Special Feature: Pre-seasoned, universal fit
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Onlyfire Universal BBQ Griddle with Handles for Most Grills, Ceramic Coated Non-stick Flat Top Griddle for Outdoor Cooking, 18"L x 12.6"W x 2.8"H "
🏆 Best For: Best Easy Handling Griddle
This one earns the Best Easy Handling Griddle crown because it strips away the drama and gives you real flat-top capability without wrestling the whole grill. Dual sturdy handles on each end let you lift and slide it like a pro, and the 18" x 12.6" surface lands in that sweet middle ground between space and maneuverability. The ceramic-coated non-stick keeps food sliding and cleanup fast, while the 2.8" profile clears most grill lids so you can flip eggs, onions, and small steaks without the roof catching fire.
Key features that pay off in the field: a ceramic coating that resists sticking and is easy to wipe down after a cook, a flat top that distributes heat evenly for brown, not burn, on veggies and proteins, and enough surface to run a couple of sunny-side-ups next to a sear. Real-world benefits show up as faster breakfasts, cleaner griddle work, and less tool-juggling on the grill. It handles direct heat well and plays nice with butter, oil, and sauces—cleanup is a wipe and go.
Who should buy this and when: cooks who want a true flat-top option on a variety of grill setups, tailgaters who need portability, and beginners who want a forgiving surface to learn on. It shines for weekend breakfasts, sautéing peppers with onions, and finishing small-batch meals without firing up a full griddle station. At under $50 with a solid 4.6 stars, it’s a practical upgrade for those who cook outdoors and want clear, repeatable results.
Honest caveats: it’s sized for standard grills—big multi-burners may outgrow it. The ceramic coating isn’t invincible—rough scrubbing or dropping can chip it. Pre-seasoning and a light oil coat helps protect the surface and keep sticking at bay. Mastery comes from good gear and real fire.
✅ Pros
- Sturdy dual handles for easy lift
- Ceramic coating aids quick release
- Fits most grills, versatile surface
❌ Cons
- May not fit large grill lids
- Ceramic coating can chip with rough use
- Key Ingredient: Ceramic-coated surface
- Scent Profile: Neutral scent when heated
- Best For: Best Easy Handling Griddle
- Size / Volume: 18" L x 12.6" W x 2.8" H
- Special Feature: Dual handles for easy lift
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Lodge Double Play Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle - Dual-Sided with Double Burner Configuration for Eggs, Pancakes, Burgers & More - Seasoned, Non-Toxic Cookware - Heavy-Duty Grill Pan - Black
🏆 Best For: Best Reversible Griddle
Best Reversible Griddle? This Lodge nails the position by giving you two cooking faces on one rugged piece and a price that won't haunt your wallet. One side is a smooth, flat griddle ready for eggs, pancakes, and sautéed onions; the other side is a raised, ribbed grill surface that sears steaks, chicken, and veggies with real grill marks. Cast iron heat retention means steady, even temps from the first sizzle to the last crust. And at $29.62 with a solid 4.5-star average, it's one of those moves you can rely on instead of chasing gimmicks.
Real-world benefits stack up fast. It's pre-seasoned, non-toxic, and built to endure heat from charcoal, gas grills, or camp stoves. The flat side handles delicate eggs and breakfast like a champ while the ridged side sears with grill marks, drains fats away, and keeps foods crisp on contact. It heats evenly, retains heat like a good pit, and because it's cast iron, it builds a crust and flavor that cheaper pans can't touch.
Who should buy this? Anyone who cooks outdoors and wants a single tool that covers breakfast through dinner: campers, RVers, backyard pitmasters, tailgaters, or folks with limited space who still want serious performance. When you need a quick setup between pancakes and burgers, or you want to do two different calls on a single burner station, this is your go-to. And if you're learning the craft, it forgives a few seasoning mistakes and grows with you.
Drawbacks? It’s heavy. Cast iron means you’ll feel it when you carry it around, and you’ll need to maintain seasoning—no soaking in the dishwasher. It can take a minute or two longer to heat, and you should dry promptly to avoid rust. It won’t fit every burner or grill setup, so check your space before buying.
✅ Pros
- Even heat across both surfaces
- Dual-sided versatility in one pan
- Budget-friendly cast iron quality
❌ Cons
- Heavy when loaded
- Seasoning upkeep required
- Key Ingredient: Seasoned cast iron
- Scent Profile: Iron-rich aroma; searing warmth
- Best For: Breakfast and grill meals outdoors
- Size / Volume: Large dual-surface griddle
- Special Feature: Dual-sided, double-burner setup
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Griddle for Gas Grill, 17" x13” Universal Griddle Flat Top Plate with Removable Handles for Charcoal/Gas Stove, Nonstick Coating Cooking Griddle Plate Insert for Camping, Tailgating, Parties
🏆 Best For: Best Portable Griddle with Handles
Here's why this Griddle earns the "Best Portable Griddle with Handles" tag: a 17" x 13" flat-top plate that sits on most gas grills and charcoal stoves, plus removable handles for fast stowing and swapping between rigs. It’s built for the road and the campsite—where you need a sturdy surface, not a gimmick. At $41.56 and a solid 4.5-star rating, you're getting serious value without burning through your budget.
Key features translate to real-world benefits: a generous cooking area that handles eggs, bacon, peppers, and burgers in one pass; nonstick coating for easy release and quick cleanup; removable handles let you pack light or store out of the way; universal compatibility with gas grills and charcoal stoves makes it a true travel companion; the budget-friendly price point leaves room to upgrade later if you want more rugged construction.
Who should buy this and when: campers and tailgaters who need a portable top for breakfast, lunch, or late-night fries; city dwellers with limited grill space who still want a flat-top; weekend warriors gearing up for camping trips, picnics, and parties. Use it for sizzling morning eggs, quick sears on burgers, or extra surface when the crew shows up hungry.
Honest drawbacks or caveats: 17" x 13" is roomy but not a crowd-pleaser for big feedings; nonstick coating requires proper care and avoiding metal utensils to extend life; removable handles can wander during transport; it's an insert plate, not a full grill, so heat control and skillet vibes rely on the host cooker. Bottom line: solid tool if you respect its limits. Mastery comes from good gear and real fire.
✅ Pros
- Removable handles for compact storage
- Generous 17x13 inch surface
- Great value at $41.56
❌ Cons
- Small batches only; not for crowds
- Nonstick coating wears with rough use
- Key Ingredient: Nonstick flat-top plate
- Scent Profile: Neutral; easy cleanup
- Best For: Best Portable Griddle with Handles
- Size / Volume: 17" x 13" cooking surface
- Special Feature: Removable handles
Factors to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flat top griddle, and what is it best for?
A flat top is a smooth, pan-like surface that gives you tons of cooking area in one plane. It shines for eggs, smash burgers, fajitas, and any job where surface contact and quick cleanup win. It’s your hot, easy-to-clean canvas for flavor-forward outdoor cooking.
Gas vs electric flat top for outdoor use—what should I pick?
Gas wins outdoors for most folks: real flame, quick heat control, and no cords dragging through the grass. Electric tops need a reliable power source and struggle with high-heat searing and smoke development. If you’re chasing authentic fire and reliability, gas is the safer bet.
How thick should the cooking surface be?
Aim for at least 3/8 inch, with 1/2 inch being the sweet spot for durability and even heat. Thinner plates heat fast but warp; thicker plates hold heat longer and resist warping, but they’re heavier. Your choice comes down to balance—portability vs. long, steady cooks.
Do I need a grease tray or drain on a flat top?
Yes. A trough and removable pan direct drippings away from the fire and reduce flare-ups. A slight slope toward the pan helps the flow, and an easy-clean surface means you’ll actually use it after a long cook. Clean as you go, and you won’t hate cleanup night.
How do I season and maintain a steel or cast top?
Seasoning builds a protective patina that flavors your food and slicks the surface. Heat the top, wipe on a high-temp oil, and let it smoke until it polymerizes. Re-season after heavy cleanups or if you see rust spots forming.
Can I use a flat top on a deck or wooden patio?
Absolutely, but secure it on a stable cart or legs and protect the surface from heat damage. Use a heat-resistant mat or clearance to keep the wood happy, and ensure proper ventilation to avoid smoke buildup. Stability and protection are non-negotiable.
Is a portable flat top worth it for camping or tailgating?
Yes, if you value surface area and even heat on the go. Choose a model that’s lightweight enough to carry, but rugged enough to survive wind, rain, and rough hands. You’ll trade a bit of performance for mobility, but you’ll still pull delicious results from the heat.
Conclusion
Pick a surface that’s thick, well-built, and easy to clean, and you’re already ahead in the cook-off. With the right flat top and real fire, you’ll push flavor and speed beyond what you thought possible. Mastery comes from good gear and real fire.
