Yes, you can add a griddle to your gas grill, and it's one of the best ways to expand your outdoor cooking options. The griddle transforms the grill into a flat cooking surface, perfect for foods that might otherwise fall apart, like eggs, pancakes, stir-fries, or delicate seafood. It gives you the flexibility of indoor griddle cooking with the delicious flavors of outdoor grilling.

Why Use a Griddle on a Gas Grill?

• Versatility: Cook breakfast foods, smash burgers, fajitas, or even fried rice.

• Even Cooking: Distributes heat more consistently than open grill grates.

• Prevents Food Loss: Keeps small or delicate foods from falling through the grates.

• Flavor Boost: Combines flat-top cooking with smoky grill flavor.

Types of Griddles You Can Use

1. Cast Iron Griddles

• Excellent heat retention and durability.

• Can be seasoned for a natural non-stick surface.

2. Stainless Steel Griddles

• Rust-resistant and easy to clean.

• Great for high-heat cooking.

3. Non-Stick Coated Griddles

• Easy cleanup but must be handled carefully to avoid scratching.

• Best for low-to-medium heat cooking.

4. Reversible Griddles

• One side smooth (for pancakes, eggs).

• One side ridged (for grilling meats).

How to Use a Griddle on a Gas Grill

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

• Light your gas grill and set burners to medium or medium-high heat.

• Preheat for about 10–15 minutes to ensure even heating.

Step 2: Place the Griddle

• Position the griddle directly over the burners.

• Make sure it sits flat and stable to avoid uneven cooking.

Step 3: Oil the Surface

• Apply a thin coat of oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado oil) to the griddle.

• Prevents sticking and helps create a non-stick surface over time.

Step 4: Start Cooking

• Cook foods that benefit from a flat surface (bacon, eggs, pancakes, burgers, stir-fry).

• Use a wide spatula for flipping and turning.

• Control heat with your grill’s burners as needed.

Step 5: Clean After Cooking

• Let the griddle cool slightly.

• Scrape off food residue with a spatula.

• Wipe with paper towels or wash with mild soap and warm water (avoid soap on cast iron).

• Dry thoroughly to prevent rust.

Safety Tips

• Avoid sudden temperature changes (like pouring cold water on hot cast iron) to prevent cracking.

• Always use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot griddles.

• Monitor flare-ups if grease builds up under the griddle.

Conclusion

Yes, you can put a griddle on a gas grill, and doing so opens up a wide range of cooking possibilities. Whether you’re making a full breakfast outdoors or searing smash burgers for dinner, a griddle adds versatility and convenience to your gas grill setup. Choose the right type of griddle, preheat properly, and clean it well to enjoy years of reliable cooking performance.