If you enjoy cooking outdoors as much as we do, you probably also appreciate hearing about the different grill types and what they offer.
In this guide, we’ve narrowed our focus to determine which is the best gas grill with cast iron grates.
Below, we’ve outlined why we would seek out this type of grill in the first place.
Also included are shopping tips and hints on how to make the most out of what these units have to offer.
In a rush? Here are the winners:
Best overall:
- Your purchase includes One Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid...
- Grill dimensions: Lid Open - 57"H x 48"W x 26"D. Lid Closed - 44.5"H x...
- Propane gas grill works with Standard 20 lb LP tank.
- Features: Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates,...
- Two burner grill is built to fit small spaces, and packed with...
Best for the money:
- 4-Burner, 36,000-BTU Cart-Style Gas Grill with 10,000-BTU Lidded Side...
- 475 square inches of primary cooking on porcelain-coated cast iron...
- Stainless steel lid, handle and control panel add style and durability
- Removable grease pan for quick and simple cleaning; Care and Cleaning:...
- Electronic ignition for fast and reliable startups. Large metal side...
Why Buy A Gas Grill?
Gas grills have several advantages over their charcoal-fueled counterparts. First and foremost, they can be fired up at the touch of a button. Instead of waiting for 30 to 45 minutes for the coals to heat up, you can start cooking as soon as the flames appear.
Second, gas grills provide a much cleaner cooking experience. There’s no ashy buildup to dispose of, no messy briquettes to deal with. While you’ll still need to clean the cooking grates after each use, the grill itself requires very little maintenance.
As a fuel source, gas is also cheaper than charcoal. This means you’ll be able to use your grill more often, even if you’re on a budget. You can even hook the gas line up to your home’s fuel supply, so you won’t have to worry about running out.
Finally, operating a gas grill requires very little skill. It takes time and practice to perfect the charcoal-grilling technique. When you use a gas grill, you’ll look like a master chef in no time.
What Are The Advantages Of Cast Iron Grates?
Cast iron grilling grates provide maximum heat retention, giving you those prized grill marks that are the hallmark of a great barbecue. When they’re properly cared for, they can last a lifetime.
Many cast iron grates are finished with a porcelain coating. In addition to making the grates easier to clean, the finish helps keep food from sticking to the surface during cooking. It can also help prevent rust and corrosion, assuming that the porcelain finish is high-quality and doesn’t flake off.
If the cast iron isn’t coated, you can achieve the same nonstick properties by seasoning the grates before their first use. All you have to do is apply a thin layer of oil while warming the grate over a low flame. Alternatively, you can heat the grates in the oven.
What To Look For In A Gas Grill
Price
With any major purchase, your first consideration should be your budget. How much can you afford to spend, and are you willing to invest in the best product available?
Additionally, don’t forget to check whether the gas or propane tank is included in the purchase price. If it isn’t, then you can expect to spend another $30 or so on the tank itself.
Material
Many gas grills are made of stainless steel, but high quality units may feature a heavy-duty cast aluminum construction. Stainless steel is usually adequate for the main body of the grill, but the frame should be sturdy enough to withstand the elements.
Also, be aware that some manufacturers might use a lower-grade steel in order to boost profits. If you have any questions about the grill’s construction, check the company’s website before making a purchase.
Size
How many people will you be cooking for on a regular basis? What types of food are you planning to cook? Is your deck or patio large enough to accommodate a larger grill? Gas grills come in many different forms, from travel-sized units to behemoths that offer more than 1,000 square inches of cooking space. Your answers will make it easier to choose the one that works for you.
Features
Also, think about which “extras” will come in handy while you’re cooking. Some units come equipped with side burners and warming racks, making it easier for you to prepare several meal components at once. Others will have hooks for your barbecue tools or shelves for storage. Built-in internal thermometers allow you to check the temperature of the meat while it’s cooking. If any of these elements rank high on your hit parade, narrow your list to include only the units that offer them.
Important Precautions
- Make sure your fuel tank is in good condition before you attempt to light the grill. Replace it if it’s suffered any damage from rust or dents.
- Never allow anyone to smoke around a gas grill.
- Always use the grill in an open, well-ventilated area.
- Double-check all the switches and valves after each use to make sure they’ve all been turned off.
- Wait for the grill to cool before covering it for the night.
Best Uses For A Gas Grill
You can use a gas-fueled unit for any type of grilled food, but here are a few of our favorites. Because most of these require very little cooking time, they don’t benefit as much from the extra smoke flavor that charcoal provides.
- Vegetables
- Hot dogs
- Hamburgers
- Bratwurst
- Grilled pizza and flatbread
- Any firm-fleshed fish, such as salmon or halibut
Best Gas Grill with Cast Iron Grates: Product Review Guide
The grills listed below are all gas-powered units featuring cast-iron cooking grates. In these product reviews, we’ll take a closer look at each model to determine whether they stack up against the established criteria.
#1 Char-Broil Performance 300 2-Burner Cabinet Gas Grill
This is one of the smaller units on our list, offering just 300 square inches of cooking space on the main grill with an additional 100 square inches on the swing-away rack. Both sets of grates feature a porcelain-coated cast iron construction, so they’re both durable and easy to clean.
The main body is constructed of stainless steel, including the lid. Two metal side shelves offer optional storage space and can be folded down when not in use. The cabinet-style construction has a streamlined appearance, hiding the propane tank from view. A set of rolling casters allows for freedom of movement, but two of the casters lock in place, so you don’t have to worry about the grill sliding away when you’re trying to cook.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble and clean
- Accurate temperature control
- Impressive fuel efficiency
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Grill grates don’t get hot enough to get a good sear on the meat
- Inconsistent heat from front to back
- On the smaller side
#2 Char-Broil Performance 475 4-Burner Cart-Style Gas Grill
Unlike the Performance 300, this is a cart-style grill, which means the propane tank is always in full view. On the plus side, it also means the unit is more lightweight, which should make it easier to maneuver. With 475 square inches of cooking space, it’s also slightly larger, making it a good choice for families of three to four people. A swing-away rack offers an additional 175 square inches.
The removable grease tray contributes to an easy cleanup, as do the porcelain-coated cast iron grilling racks. The metal shelving on either side allows you to keep your ingredients close by when cooking. The Performance 475 features a stainless steel construction, with a built-in temperature gauge on the lid.
The only quibble we have with this model involves the rolling casters, which are much lower in quality than the rest of the unit. If you plan on moving the grill around a lot, we would recommend looking elsewhere. Otherwise, it’s a fair value for the price.
Pros:
- Main body is sturdily constructed
- Inexpensive price point
- Good heat retention
- Side burner offers versatility
Cons:
- Confusing assembly instructions
- Shoddy packaging
- Cheap rolling casters
#3 Char-Griller E3001 Grillin' Pro Gas Grill
The “Grillin’ Pro” is a bargain offering, worth a look if you’re on a tight budget. The main grilling area is comprised of 438 square inches, while an additional warming rack offers another 192 square inches–a generous measure. Both cooking grates are constructed of porcelain-coated cast iron.
A side burner allows you to warm sauces or side dishes at a different temperature than the main grill, which is another huge plus. There’s also a side shelf for prep space or storage, and a set of built-in utensil hooks.
This unit features a steel construction, but it’s not as durable as some of the others on this list. We think the quality is reflected in the low price tag. If you’re in the market for a gas grill that will see you through a couple of seasons, this one could be worth a look.
Pros:
- Easy-to-follow instructions for assembly and general use
- User-friendly
- Good temperature control
- Budget price point
Cons:
- Only lasts 1-2 years
- Some shipping issues reported
- Doesn’t get hot enough to achieve a good sear
#4 Cuisinart CGG-7400 4-Burner Gas Grill
This is another cart-style grill, including 443 square inches of cooking space over four burners with an additional 167 square inches on the optional warming rack. The grilling area is flanked by two ample side tables, which are perfect for storage or prep. All cooking grates are constructed of cast iron, while the main body is stainless steel.
Be forewarned that the lid on this unit warps easily under high heat. While it generally heats up quickly, it doesn’t hold its heat well over long periods. For this reason, we wouldn’t recommend using it for low-and-slow cooking applications like smoking and braising. We also don’t think it would hold up for more than a few years. Fortunately, it’s set at a reasonable price point.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to clean
- Quick assembly
- Heats quickly and evenly
Cons:
- Chintzy lid
- Doesn’t hold its heat over long periods of time
#5 Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill With Rotisserie
This is a sturdy and attractive unit, featuring a cabinet-style design and a sleek stainless steel construction. The primary cooking area measures just over 513 square inches, with porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates. A side burner is also included.
Because this grill easily heats to 600 degrees with the lid closed, it’s a good choice for grilling pizza and flatbreads. You could even use it for baking if you wanted to get creative. We think the quality is somewhat out of line with the price, but if the rotisserie option appeals to you, this grill is worth a look.
Pros:
- Built-in rotisserie for roasting chickens
- Eye-catching design
- Heats effectively and evenly
Cons:
- Spotty customer service
- Relatively high price point
- Steel could be higher in quality
#6 Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill
Weber grills tend to be priced higher than the competition–but with good reason, in our opinion. This one offers the company’s GS4 grilling system, with an effective grease management system and built-in “Flavorizer” bars that lend real char-broiled flavor to your grilled meats.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates cover 450 square inches, which is fairly generous for a two-burner unit. The open cart design features six built-in tool hooks and a pair of large wheels to make it more maneuverable. Weber offers a 10-year guarantee on this unit.
Pros:
- Generous company guarantee
- Easy to assemble
- Great bonus features
Cons:
- Slightly pricey for the size
- Control knobs turn easily, which could be hazardous if young children are around
#7 Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill
This unit is virtually identical to the Spirit II E-210, with one marked difference: It has three burners instead of two, with a total of 529 square inches of cooking space. The grilling grates are composed of porcelain-enameled cast iron, and the built-in “Glamorizer” bars are coated in porcelain as well, contributing to the easy cleanup.
This model is iGrill compatible, meaning the temperature can be remotely controlled via your smartphone or tablet. The cart-style design comes with built-in tool hooks and a side table for prep. If you like the Spirit II E-210 but need more space, this could be the right fit for you.
Pros:
- Effective ignition and grilling system
- Plenty of prep and storage space
- iGrill compatibility
Cons:
- Assembly can be confusing with a three-burner unit
- Some shipping issues reported
Best Gas Grill With Cast Iron Grates: The Bottom Line
Of all the units we’ve reviewed, we prefer the Weber Spirit II E-210. It’s large enough to accommodate a larger party if needed, but not so immense that it ruins the flow of the yard or patio. The sophisticated grilling system makes it a conversation piece as well as a cooking station, and it’s easy to assemble and to clean. While it’s slightly expensive for a grill of this size, its durability makes it easy to recommend.
Click here to read more about the Weber Spirit II E-210.
Best of luck, and happy grilling!
