Top Grilling Equipment Trends That Are Revolutionizing Outdoor Cooking in 2025
The world of grilling equipment is experiencing a major transformation in 2025, with innovative technologies and advanced heat systems completely changing how we approach outdoor cooking. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these grilling trends will help you stay ahead of the curve and elevate your backyard cooking game.
From smart grills with Wi-Fi connectivity to eco-friendly cooking solutions, today's hottest grilling trends give you the best of both worlds—smart tech that makes outdoor cooking easier while still delivering that authentic BBQ flavor you can't get anywhere else. Let's dive into the top grilling equipment trends that are making waves in the outdoor kitchen world.
(Napoleon Prestige 665 RSIB Connected)
1. Smart Grills with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity
Smart grilling technology is no longer a luxury—it's becoming the standard for serious outdoor cooks in 2025. These connected grills offer top notch control and precision to bring you ease and convenience at your next backyard BBQ.
Key Features:
- Remote temperature monitoring via smartphone
- Set timers and receive real-time notifications when food is ready
- Check fuel levels via smartphone
- Receive cooking assistance and various recipe suggestions
Leading Brands: Alfresco, Weber, Napoleon and Kamado Joe offer innovative features that make grilling more accessible and precise.
(Kamado Joe 18" Konnected Joe with Cart)
2. High-Performance Charcoal Grills Make a Comeback
Charcoal grills are staging a major comeback in 2025. Charcoal grilling enthusiasts are driving demand for high-end charcoal BBQ equipment that delivers superior flavor and brings more of an authentic outdoor cooking experience.
Performance Advantages
- Better heat retention and radiant cooking compared to gas
- No dependency on propane or gas line connections
- More precise control over heat zones for experienced grillers
What's Driving the Trend:
- Fast-lighting charcoal grills with electric ignition systems
- Portable charcoal grills with advanced features like adjustable grates and built-in rotisseries
- Kamado-style grills offering versatility for smoking, grilling, and baking
(Lynx 30" Asado Cooktop Griddle )
3. Outdoor Griddles and Flat-Top Grills
Outdoor griddles are one of the fastest-growing categories in grilling equipment. These flat-top grills offer incredible versatility for outdoor cooking and transform your backyard into an all-day cooking station that handles breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ease.
Why Griddles Are Trending:
- Large cooking surface for feeding crowds
- Easy cleanup compared to traditional grill grates
- Restaurant-style cooking at home
- Perfect for delicate foods like fish and vegetables
Popular Uses:
- Morning: pancakes and eggs
- Lunch: quesadillas and sandwiches
- Dinner: stir-fry and smash burgers
(Alfa Forni Moderno 2 Pizze Gas Pizza Oven)
4. Personal Pizza Ovens Transform Backyard Dining
Outdoor pizza ovens have evolved from massive, expensive installations to compact, user-friendly personal pizza ovens that anyone can enjoy.
Why You'll Want One:
- Electric, propane, or pellet fuel options
- Portable designs for apartment balconies
- Multi-functional cooking beyond just pizza
- Easy setup and maintenance
Top Pick: Alfa Forni Pizza Ovens are revolutionizing backyard pizza with their innovative Heat Genius Technology, which delivers authentic Neapolitan pizza in just 90 seconds!
(FireMagic Aurora Charcoal/Gas Built-In Grill)
5. Multi-Functional Hybrid Grills
Hybrid grilling systems are perfect for outdoor cooks who want maximum versatility in their BBQ equipment. These multi-fuel grills combine multiple cooking methods in one unit—Gas, Charcoal and Smoker functions.
Hybrid Grill Capabilities:
- Rotisserie cooking with integrated motor systems
- Searing and low-and-slow BBQ
- Baking and roasting with convection-style heat circulation
- Various smoking techniques including hot smoking for brisket and ribs and cold smoking for fish and pre-cured meats
Benefits: Space-saving design, cost-effective compared to multiple single-purpose units, and flexibility for different cooking styles.
(Lynx Built-In Grill with All Trident Infrared Burners)
6. Infrared Grilling Technology for Perfect Searing
Infrared grilling systems are experiencing massive growth in 2025 as home cooks discover the restaurant-quality searing power that was once exclusive to commercial kitchens.
Why Infrared is Trending:
- Extreme high heat capability reaching 1,500°F+ for perfect steakhouse-style searing
- Even heat distribution eliminating hot and cold spots across the cooking surface
- Faster cooking timeswith superior heat retention and efficiency
- Reduced flare-ups due to controlled radiant heat rather than direct flame contact
- Energy efficiency using less fuel while producing higher temperatures
Popular Infrared Applications:
- Sear stations as add-on components to existing gas grills
- Dedicated infrared burners integrated into premium grill designs
- Infrared side burners for high-heat cooking and sauce preparation
- Portable infrared grills for apartment and small-space cooking
7. Modular Outdoor Kitchen Systems
Modular outdoor kitchens are revolutionizing backyard design by offering flexible, customizable cooking spaces that can grow with your needs.
Modular Kitchen Components:
- Interchangeable grill inserts for different cooking styles
- Flexible countertop configurations for prep and serving
- Integrated refrigeration and beverage systems
- Weather-resistant materials like marine-grade stainless steel
Design Benefits: Easy expansion, seasonal reconfiguration, and personalized layouts for any space.
(Solaire Anywhere Portable Stainless Infrared Grill)
8. Compact and Portable Grilling Solutions
There has been a huge demand for compact, portable grills that allow grilling enthusiasts to enjoy authentic BBQ flavor in small spaces or on the go. Whether you're hosting at your apartment or heading on a camping trip, you can now bring the BBQ with you wherever you go.
Portable Grill Features:
- Foldable electric grills for balcony use
- Lightweight charcoal models
- Tabletop designs perfect for small spaces
- Battery-powered options for camping and tailgating
Perfect For: Apartment balconies, RV camping, beach trips, and tailgating events.
9. Premium Grilling Tools and Smart Accessories
High-end grilling accessories are becoming essential for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want professional-level results.
Must-Have Accessories:
- Smart & Wireless meat thermometers that provide extended wireless range and monitoring several items simultaneously
- Grillbot Automatic Grill-Cleaning Robot that works like a Roomba for your grill
- Electric fire starters help making lighting your charcoal grill easier and safer
- Reusable grill mats that provide environmental advantages and offer easy clean up
Investment Benefits: Improved cooking results, convenience, enhanced safety and eco-friendly.
Ready to Upgrade Your Grilling Game?
The grilling equipment trends of 2025 offer exciting opportunities to elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you're interested in smart grill technology, exploring charcoal grilling, or creating a complete modular outdoor kitchen, there's never been a better time to invest in quality BBQ equipment.
If you're a grilling expert and wanting to bring some versatility to your backyard, maybe its time to invest in an infrared, hybrid or table top grill. If you're the host of the group, mix things up the next time you have a backyard BBQ with a create your own pizza night. Your options to upgrade yoru grilling game are endless, but be sure to choose trends that match your cooking style and lifestyle needs.
Ready to explore these trends? Head to thebbqdepot.com to see these trends in action and bring innovation to your outdoor kitchen. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!
FAQ
What is the biggest grilling trend in 2025?
The biggest grilling trend in 2025 is the integration of smart technology into outdoor cooking equipment. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled grills are becoming mainstream, allowing cooks to monitor temperatures, receive notifications, and even get recipe suggestions through smartphone apps. This makes smartgrills particularly valuable not only for beginners learning proper grilling techniques but busy cooks who want to multitask when grilling.
What's the difference between a griddle and a traditional grill?
Outdoor griddles feature a flat cooking surface that provides even heat distribution, while traditional grills use grates over direct heat. Griddles are great for cooking breakfast foods, delicate items like fish, and achieving restaurant-style sears. They're easier to clean but don't provide the smoky flavor or grill marks that traditional grills offer.
What should I look for in a personal pizza oven?
When choosing a personal pizza oven, consider fuel type, heating time, portability, and maximum temperature capability. Also evaluate whether you want a dedicated pizza oven or a multi-functional unit that can grill and roast. While it really comes down to your needs, we highly recommend Alfa Forni ovens due to their modern designs, range of fuel types and sizes and ability to reach 1000 degrees.
Are hybrid grills worth the investment?
Hybrid grills can be excellent investments for outdoor cooks who want versatility without purchasing multiple units. They typically combine gas, charcoal, and smoking capabilities in one system. Consider your cooking style, available space, and budget—hybrid grills cost more upfront but may save money compared to buying separate specialized grills.
What makes a grill "eco-friendly"?
Eco-friendly grills typically feature energy-efficient designs, use sustainable fuel sources and minimize harmful emissions. Electric grills powered by renewable energy and charcoal grills using sustainably harvested wood are examples of eco-friendly grilling equipment.
What's the best grilling equipment for beginners in 2025?
For beginners, we recommend starting with a mid-range gas grill with smart features that will help give you some guidance as you start to learn how to cook food on your new grill. Add a wireless meat thermometer and basic accessories like quality tongs and a grill brush to complete your outdoor kitchen setup. As skills develop, consider adding specialized equipment like a personal pizza oven or outdoor griddle based your personal preferences.
