Learn easy and delicious recipes perfect for your outdoor flat top grill! From breakfast to dinner, these essential tips will help beginners master their griddle and impress everyone with simple, crowd-pleasing dishes.
Grilling with a flat top opens up a whole new world of delicious possibilities! If you’ve just got your hands on a new outdoor flat top grill, or you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons beyond burgers and hot dogs, you’ve come to the right place. Many folks find starting out a bit daunting, wondering what they can really make on that big, flat surface besides the usual suspects. It’s true, a flat top grill is incredibly versatile, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, though! We’re going to break down some genius essentials and simple recipes that will have you grilling like a pro in no time. Get ready to discover how easy and fun cooking outdoors can be!
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Flat Top Grilling
What’s the biggest advantage of using a flat top grill?
The biggest advantage is versatility! Unlike traditional grates, a flat top allows you to cook almost anything you’d make in a kitchen pan – from delicate fish and eggs to fried rice and pancakes – all while enjoying the smoky flavor of outdoor cooking.
How do I prevent food from sticking to my flat top grill?
Proper seasoning and using enough cooking oil are key. Ensure your grill is well-seasoned (creating a non-stick surface over time) and always preheat it thoroughly. During cooking, add a little oil or butter to the cooking surface to create a barrier between the food and the metal.
Can I cook breakfast foods on a flat top grill?
Absolutely! A flat top is perfect for breakfast. You can easily make pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, fried eggs, bacon, and sausage all at once, making it ideal for feeding a crowd.
How do I clean my flat top grill after cooking?
Turn on the heat to medium-high. Use a flat-edged griddle scraper to push debris into the grease trap. Once clear, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth or paper towel. For tougher stuck-on bits, you can add some water or oil and scrape. Always finish with a light coating of oil to protect the surface.
What kind of oil is best for my flat top grill?
High smoke point oils are best. Good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or avocado oil. These can handle the high heat without burning too quickly.
Can I use my flat top grill in the rain?
Most flat top grills are designed to be used outdoors, but heavy rain can be problematic. The cooking surface can get too wet, affecting cooking temperature and potentially causing flare-ups with water. It’s generally best to cover your grill or avoid cooking in very heavy downpours.
What’s the difference between a flat top grill and a griddle?
In the context of outdoor cooking appliances, the terms are often used interchangeably! A “flat top grill” typically refers to a grill with a large, solid cooking surface, as opposed to one with grates. A “griddle” is essentially the same thing when referring to this style of outdoor cooking appliance. So, for us, they mean the same genius cooking machine!
Flat Top Grill Essentials: What You Need to Get Started
Before we dive into the delicious recipes, let’s talk about a few tools that will make your outdoor flat top grilling experience even better. Think of these as your trusty gardening trowel and watering can – they make the job easier and more enjoyable!
- Flat-Edged Griddle Scraper: This is your best friend for cleaning and scraping off any bits of food. A good quality metal one is a must-have.
- Spatulas (Wide and Thin): You’ll want a few. A wide, flexible one is great for flipping large items like burgers or pancakes. A thinner, stiff one is handy for getting under sticky things or chopping.
- Tongs: Essential for turning and moving food.
- Squirt Bottles: For water (to steam clean) and oil. Having your oil ready to go makes cooking smoother.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves or Mitts: Safety first! Flat tops get hot, and these will protect your hands.
- Basting Covers or Domes: Great for steaming veggies, melting cheese, or keeping food warm.
- A Good Quality Oil: As mentioned in the FAQs, opt for high smoke point oils like canola, vegetable, grapeseed, or avocado oil.
Having these on hand will make cooking a breeze. Proper tools really do make a difference, just like having the right compost for your garden!
Mastering Your Griddle: The Art of Seasoning
Just like preparing your garden soil is crucial, seasoning your flat top grill is essential for a non-stick surface and great flavor. It’s not a one-and-done deal; it’s an ongoing process that builds up over time.
What is Seasoning?
Seasoning is the process of baking layers of oil onto the metal surface of your flat top. As the oil heats up past its smoke point, it polymerizes, creating a hard, slick, and naturally non-stick coating akin to what you find on cast iron pans.
Basic Seasoning Steps (for New Grills or Re-Seasoning):
- Clean the Surface: If your grill is new, remove any factory coating. If it’s old and rusty, scrub it down thoroughly.
- Apply Oil: Lightly coat the entire cooking surface with a thin layer of your chosen high smoke point oil.
- Heat It Up: Turn your grill to medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the oil begins to smoke lightly.
- Cool Down and Wipe: Let the grill cool completely. Then, wipe off any excess oil.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 2-4 at least 2-3 more times. The more you do it, the better the seasoning.
Maintaining Your Seasoning:
After each cooking session:
- Scrape off any food debris while the grill is still warm.
- Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth or paper towel.
- Apply a very thin layer of oil while still warm to protect the surface.
With consistent care, your flat top will become increasingly non-stick, and your food will have a wonderful flavor. If you notice food starting to stick, it might be time for another light seasoning session.
Genius Flat Top Grill Recipes for Beginners
Now for the exciting part – the food! These recipes are designed to be beginner-friendly, highlighting the capabilities of your flat top grill without requiring complicated techniques.
Morning Delights: Breakfast on the Flat Top
Breakfast is where the flat top truly shines. You can cook multiple items simultaneously, making it a weekend brunch game-changer.
1. The Ultimate Pancake & Sausage Breakfast
This is a classic for a reason. The flat top lets you cook your pancakes to golden perfection while your sausages sizzle nearby.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 batch pancake batter (use your favorite mix or recipe)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage links or patties
- Butter or oil for the griddle
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
- Lightly grease the griddle with butter or oil.
- Place the sausage links or patties on one side of the griddle. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10-15 minutes for links, 5-7 minutes per side for patties).
- While the sausages cook, pour pancake batter onto the hot griddle to form pancakes of your desired size.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
- Remove sausages and pancakes from the griddle and serve immediately with maple syrup.
2. Speedy Breakfast Tacos
A quick and tasty way to use up leftovers or enjoy a flavorful morning meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage or chorizo
- 4-6 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Small corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, salsa, avocado, chopped onions, cilantro
Instructions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to medium-high heat.
- Add the ground sausage or chorizo to the griddle and cook, breaking it apart with your spatula, until browned and cooked through.
- Push the cooked meat to the side of the griddle.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or water, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture onto the cleared side of the griddle. Scramble them by gently pushing cooked egg towards the center with your spatula.
- Once eggs are cooked to your liking, mix them with the sausage.
- Warm the tortillas on a separate section of the griddle or directly on the cooked meat/egg mixture for a minute or two per side.
- Assemble tacos by fillling tortillas with the egg and meat mixture. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Savory Suppers: Lunch & Dinner Classics
Don’t limit your flat top to just breakfast! It’s fantastic for quick lunches and easy dinners.
3. Smashed Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Achieve that perfect diner-style smash burger with crispy edges right on your flat top!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (like canola or vegetable)
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: Cheese slices, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C).
- Melt the butter in a pan or on the griddle over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until they are soft, sweet, and caramelized. Remove from the griddle and set aside.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll them into loose balls.
- Lightly oil or butter the griddle. Place the beef balls about 3 inches apart.
- Immediately smash each ball down firmly with a sturdy spatula or a burger press until they are about 1/2 inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving until a good crust forms. Then, flip the burgers. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty right after flipping.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, until cooked through and cheese is melted.
- While burgers cook, lightly toast the hamburger buns on a corner of the griddle.
- Assemble burgers: Place a patty on the bottom bun, top with caramelized onions, and add any other desired toppings. Serve immediately.
For burger-making tips, check out resources from the Serious Eats Food Lab for detailed insights.
4. Simple Fried Rice
A fantastic way to use leftover rice and customize with your favorite veggies and protein.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes chopping)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (like sesame or vegetable oil)
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers)
- 3 cups cooked, day-old rice (chilled rice works best)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your flat top grill to high heat (around 400°F / 200°C).
- Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to the griddle. If using protein, add it now and stir-fry for a few minutes until cooked through. Remove protein to a plate.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the griddle. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add your chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Push the vegetables and garlic to one side of the griddle. Pour the beaten eggs onto the cleared space. Scramble them until cooked.
- Add the cooked rice to the griddle. Break it up with your spatula.
- Pour soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice. Stir everything together, mixing in the scrambled eggs and cooked protein.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
- Stir in the sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot.
General Flat Top Grilling Tips for Success
Just like successful gardening involves understanding your plants and their needs, mastering your flat top grill involves a few key practices.
- Temperature Control is Key: Flat tops can have excellent temperature control. Many have multiple burners, allowing you to create different heat zones. Use cooler zones for moving food that’s cooking faster or just keeping things warm, and hotter zones for searing and quick cooking.
- Don’t Crowd the Griddle: Overcrowding lowers the temperature and leads to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing ample space for even cooking and browning.
- Use the Right Tools: As mentioned earlier, good spatulas and scrapers are essential. They make flipping, scraping, and cleaning much easier.
- Preheat Thoroughly: Always give your flat top grill enough time to heat up properly. A properly preheated surface is crucial for preventing sticking and achieving that desirable sear. Aim for 10-15 minutes of preheating.
- Embrace the Sizzle: The sound of food hitting a hot griddle is music to a griller’s ears! This signifies a good sear is about to happen, leading to delicious flavor and texture.
- Clean Up Immediately: A quick scrape and wipe down right after cooking makes your next grilling session much easier. It’s like tidying up your workspace after a gardening project!
Taking It a Step Further: Beyond the Basics
Once you’re comfortable with these essentials, you can start exploring more advanced uses for your flat top grill.
- Philly Cheesesteaks: Thinly sliced steak, onions, peppers, and melted cheese – a flat top is perfect for creating that authentic thin-steak texture.
- Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients & Basics:
Ingredient Description Steak (Ribeye or Sirloin) Thinly sliced, almost shaved, then chopped further on the griddle. Onions Thinly sliced, cooked until soft and slightly browned. Bell Peppers (optional) Thin
