Guide to 5 Essential Types of Outdoor Grills for Every BBQ Enthusiast

When choosing an outdoor grill, considering the design, heat source, and cooking style is essential. The market offers a diverse range of grills, each tailored to specific grilling preferences and food types. From traditional open flames to sophisticated rotisserie setups, understanding these options can help you select the perfect grill for your backyard. Below are five popular types of outdoor grills, categorized by their grilling method, to assist you in making an informed choice.

Open Flame Grills
The simplest outdoor grills, open flame models consist of a metal or stone box with a heat source at the bottom. They typically use charcoal, wood, or propane and are ideal for direct grilling of smaller meats, vegetables, and seafood. Foods are placed directly over the flame for quick, flavorful cooking.

The smoker grill is renowned for imparting a smoky flavor to foods. Brands like Traeger, Weber, Pit Boss, and Oklahoma Joe’s manufacture these models. They are perfect for low-and-slow cooking, ideal for ribs, briskets, and other cuts that benefit from smoke infusion and indirect heat.

Covered Grills
Enclosed grills, featuring tall lids, enable indirect cooking and smoking. They accommodate thicker foods like steaks, pork, chicken, and fish, providing even heat distribution and the ability to cook larger portions. These grills are multifunctional, combining direct and indirect cooking techniques.

Rotisserie Grills
This grilling method employs a rotating spit to cook food evenly and develop a crispy exterior. Ideal for whole poultry, roasts, and pork shoulders, rotisserie grills ensure succulent, flavorful results. Leading brands include Traeger, Napoleon, and Broil King, which offer high-quality rotisserie units.

Vessel Grills
Vessel grills are versatile ceramic units suitable for indoor or outdoor use. They use radiant heat from sidewalls and direct heat from charcoal, perfect for dishes like kebabs, flatbreads, or roasted meats. Their design allows for high heat retention and even cooking.