Grilling 101: Grilling Guide For Beginners
Ever dreamt of hosting unforgettable backyard barbecues that leave your guests raving about the food? It might seem intimidating at first, but the truth is there’s really nothing to fear!
With this beginner's guide you'll be equipped with the essential knowledge needed to transform your backyard into a sizzling haven!
What Is The Best Type Of Grill To Buy?
The foundation of any great BBQ is, of course, the grill itself. With a wide variety of options available, it's important to consider your needs and budget. To help you choose the perfect grill for you, and your grilling goals, we've created this quick breakdown of the most popular grills by fuel type:
Gas Grills
Perfect for beginners!
These user-friendly grills:
- Offer a convenient push-button ignition
- Have quick heat control/s
- All you to easily create many styles of food
Gas grills come with two fuel options - Natural Gas and/or LP (Liquid Propane):
- Natural Gas is piped gas from your home or available utility hookup
- Propane Gas is often housed in a tank or bottle with the most popular size being 20lbs (often called a BBQ tank)
Some of the most popular gas grill brands are:
- Weber, which is found in many box stores
- Napoleon and Delta Heat grills, which are known for their high quality construction & innovative features. and can be ordered with us or in other outdoor specialty store
Charcoal Grills
Great smoky flavor!
If you're looking for smoky flavor than a classic charcoal grill is for you! Over the years charcoal grills have expanded beyond standard "charcoal" as well - they now include options such as:
- lump wood charcoal
- wood pellets
The only "downside" with these grills is they take a bit more effort to light, and to maintain a desired temperature. Fortunately, brands like Big Green Egg (which we sell in-store), and Kamado (we sell online) have mastered techniques that make these processes easier.
Electric Grills
Perfect for small spaces!
Electric grills are often compact and portable, which make them a great option for use on balconies, rooftops, and small patios. Can't have an open flame? That's no problem at all when you're utilizing an electric grill!
While they may not offer the same level of searing as gas or charcoal grills, they're a safe and convenient option for urban dwellers.
Types Of Gas Grills
When choosing a grill, it's important to consider your needs, budget, and desired grilling experience. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common gas grill configurations we offer here at BBQ Depot to help you find the perfect fit:
Built-In Gas Grills
These grills are the heartbeat of your outdoor kitchen, creating a luxurious and permanent grilling station. However, when shopping for a built-in grill you need to keep in mind that they usually require professional installation, which will increase their overall cost and time of setup.
Some of the popular built-in grill brands are:
- Lynx & Alfresco grills, which are more luxurious brands, are constructed of high-end materials, and have advanced features like cool color options and sleek aesthetics that will complement your outdoor space.
- Summerset & Sedona grills, which are more affordable brands, have a great selection of sizes, accessories, and options.
*Pro Tip: Make sure to choose your built-in grill wisely when building an outdoor kitchen. Even when grills are the same listed "size" (example: 30 inches) they can have different cutouts. That means it can be hard to replace a grill without buying the same one once again. So, that's why it can be best to buy a higher end grill that will last vs a more affordable option that may have a shorter lifespan.
Freestanding Gas Grills
These versatile grills offer portability and flexibility. They come in various sizes and configurations, making them suitable for both spacious backyards and smaller patios.
One popular freestanding grill brand is AOG. Their grills are known for:
- Their powerful burners
- Impressive grilling performance
- Fair price in freestanding models
*Pro Tip: If you want a freestanding grill now, but you're planning to build an outdoor kitchen in the future, opt for a grill that allows you to remove the "grill head", so you can use it for your outdoor kitchen bill (instead of needing to buy a new grill).
Infrared Gas Grills
These high-tech grills utilize infrared burners for faster and more even cooking than traditional grills.
- Most reach temperatures in excess of 900 degrees in just minutes
- They're perfect for searing steaks & burgers, achieving that restaurant-quality char
While offering impressive speed and heat control, infrared grills can be more expensive than standard gas grills, and may have a longer learning curve.
Pedestal Gas Grills
These compact grills are:
- Often utilized in smaller spaced
- Attached to a patio or deck by a sturdy pedestal base
- Typically use natural gas
Our top choice for a Pedestal or Patio Mount Grill is MHP. This brand is made in the USA and offers some of the most reliable grills on the market!
Tabletop Gas Grills
These grills are lightweight and compact, which make them very easy to transport, and make them a perfect option for camping trips, picnics, and tailgating!
While they’re not ideal for large gatherings, tabletop grills are a convenient option for:
- Casual grilling on the go
- Those who do not grill often and do not need a full size product
- Those with little to no outdoor space
Grill Carts
These mobile carts are great if you want more storage space for grilling tools and other accessories, but don't want to invest in a full outdoor kitchen. When shopping for a grill cart you'll want to look for:
- Sturdy construction
- Lockable casters for easy movement
- Weather-resistant materials
Have an egg style grill & want to add a cart? No problem - we sell pre-designed carts for Big Green Egg & Kamado!
Grilling Techniques For Beginners
Ready to start grilling? Let's explore some fundamental grilling techniques:
Direct Grilling
This method involves placing your food directly over the heat source, which is perfect for searing steaks, burgers, and vegetables. Popular for its speed and simplicity, direct grilling is a great choice for beginners.
Indirect Grilling
This method cooks your food over low heat with the heat source positioned off to the side. It's ideal for larger cuts of meat like chicken or roasts, ensuring even cooking without burning the exterior.
Multi-Zone Grilling
This technique allows for creating different distinct temperature zones on your grill, and grilling many different meat types at once. Grill your burgers in one zone and grill your chicken in another until each reaches the desired internal temperature.
Grilling Tips & Tricks
Want to know even more ins & outs of grilling? Here are some additional tips and tricks to take your grilling game to the next level:
Preheating A Grill
A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and perfect grill marks. Aim for medium-high heat for direct grilling and medium-low heat for indirect grilling.
*Pro Tip: Preheat your grill with the hood down. Then after you have reached your desired temperature, grill with the hood open!
Marinades For Grilling
Marinades add flavor and moisture, which is especially beneficial when grilling lean meats like chicken or fish. You can also easily create your own marinades by experimenting with different herbs, spices, and acids (like vinegar or lemon juice).
Grill Thermometers
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your food reaches a safe internal temperature to avoid overcooking and drying out your meat.
Meat Rest Times
Once cooked, let your meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, which results in a more tender and flavorful experience.
Become A Master Griller
Remember, grilling is a skill that develops with practice. Don't be afraid to experiment with different recipes and techniques. Invite friends and family over for casual cookouts and enjoy the process of learning together!
As you gain confidence, consider exploring advanced grilling methods and accessories like smoking or grilling pizzas using specialized pizza stones. As you learn about the art of grilling, you’ll realize that there are numerous ways to cook a bountiful barbecue.
With a little bit of knowledge and practice, you'll be whipping up mouthwatering grilled dishes in no time. Soon, your backyard will be the go-to spot for unforgettable BBQ gatherings filled with laughter, good food, and memories made around the grill.
Ready to get started? At The BBQ Depot we have all the essential grilling parts, tools and accessories you need to become a backyard BBQ Master. We also have an incredible selection of top-rated BBQ grills, including
Need help shopping? Our knowledgeable staff is happy to answer any questions you might have! We'll help you find the perfect grill that suits both your needs and budget.
So, what are you waiting for? Shop online, or contact us now, and get ready to create some delicious memories that will last a lifetime!
