10 Best Outdoor Griddles for Large Group Cooking in 2025

You’re planning another backyard gathering, and your regular grill just won’t cut it for feeding twenty hungry guests. The right outdoor griddle transforms your cooking game, letting you prepare everything from pancakes to burgers simultaneously on one expansive surface. But with dozens of models claiming to handle large groups, choosing the perfect griddle requires understanding which features actually matter when you’re cooking under pressure.

Blackstone 1554 36″ Omnivore Griddle with Folding Side Shelves

If you’re cooking for crowds regularly, the Blackstone 1554 36″ Omnivore Griddle delivers the space and power you need with its massive 768 square inches of cooking surface. You’ll handle impressive quantities – 47 eggs, 30 burgers, or 27 steaks in one session. Four independently controlled burners let you cook different foods at various temperatures simultaneously. The Omnivore plate technology provides even heating with built-in wind guards while reducing fuel consumption. You’ll appreciate the folding side shelves, tool hooks, and paper towel holder for organized cooking. At 120 pounds with casters, it’s substantial yet mobile for your outdoor cooking adventures.

Best For: Large families, frequent entertainers, and outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need to prepare substantial quantities of food for groups and want the flexibility to cook multiple items at different temperatures simultaneously.

Pros:

• Massive 768 square inch cooking surface can handle large quantities (47 eggs, 30 burgers, or 27 steaks) for crowd cooking
• Four independently controlled burners allow cooking different foods at various temperatures at the same time
• Omnivore plate technology provides even heating with wind guards while reducing fuel consumption

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 120 pounds makes it difficult to move frequently despite having casters
• Large size requires significant storage space and may not fit in smaller outdoor areas
• Propane fuel dependency means ongoing fuel costs and potential for running out of gas mid-cook

Cuisinart Flat Top Professional Quality Propane Gas Griddle (CGG-0028)

The Cuisinart CGG-0028 delivers 644 square inches of cooking space powered by dual 12,000 BTU burners, making it an excellent choice for groups of 8-12 people who need reliable performance without breaking the budget. You’ll appreciate the cold rolled steel cooktop that reaches over 600 degrees for excellent searing. The dual grease management system with front-access cups makes cleanup simple, while the foldable design saves storage space. Though assembly takes 30-60 minutes and you’ll need to remove shipping oil before first use, this griddle offers solid value with 4.3-star customer ratings and competitive pricing.

Best For: Budget-conscious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need to feed groups of 8-12 people and want a reliable griddle with ample cooking space and easy storage.

Pros:

• Large 644 square inch cooking surface with powerful dual 12,000 BTU burners that reach over 600 degrees for excellent searing
• Space-saving foldable design with wheels and handle for mobility, plus dual grease management system for easy cleanup
• Excellent value for money with competitive pricing and solid 4.3-star customer ratings

Cons:

• Requires 30-60 minutes of assembly and thorough cleaning to remove shipping oil before first use
• Rough cooking surface may need sanding for optimal performance and some users report minor hardware issues
• Better suited for stationary use rather than frequent portability despite having wheels

Uniflasy Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle for Gas & Charcoal Grills (25×16)

Grilling enthusiasts who frequently cook for large gatherings will appreciate the Uniflasy Nonstick Cast Iron Griddle’s generous 25×16-inch cooking surface that transforms any gas or charcoal grill into a versatile cooking station. You’ll find its nonstick coating prevents food from sticking while high bar sides contain grease splashes. The integrated grease channel keeps your cooking area tidy, and hollow side panels guarantee even heat distribution. Weighing 22.2 pounds, it’s built for durability yet features convenient handles for transport. This griddle fits Weber Genesis, Char-Broil, and Nexgrill models, making it perfect for cooking breakfast, lunch, or dinner for crowds.

Best For: Grilling enthusiasts who cook for large groups and want to transform their gas or charcoal grill into a versatile cooking station for breakfast items, vegetables, and small foods that would otherwise fall through grill grates.

Pros:

• Large 25×16-inch cooking surface with nonstick coating and grease management features for easy cooking and cleanup
• Universal compatibility with major grill brands including Weber Genesis, Char-Broil, and Nexgrill models
• Durable cast iron construction with even heat distribution and convenient handles for transport

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 22.2 pounds makes it cumbersome to handle and store
• Some users report food sticking issues and cleaning difficulties after extended use despite nonstick coating
• Requires seasoning before use and gradual heating to prevent warping, adding extra preparation steps

Cuisinart 360° XL Griddle Outdoor Cooking Center, 30″ Round Flat Top Grill

Large gatherings become effortless when you’re equipped with the Cuisinart 360° XL Griddle’s impressive 706 square inches of cooking surface. This 30″ round flat top grill delivers 45,000 BTU across three independent burners, letting you create hot and cool zones for versatile cooking. You’ll reach temperatures of 550°F quickly, perfect for grilling burgers, searing steaks, or stir-frying vegetables simultaneously. The 360° grease management system keeps cleanup simple, while folding prep tables provide extra workspace. At 99 pounds with all-terrain wheels, you can move it easily around your patio for ideal positioning during large cookouts.

Best For: Large families and serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who frequently host gatherings and need ample cooking space with precise temperature control across multiple zones.

Pros:

• Massive 706 square inch cooking surface with 45,000 BTU power across three independent burners for versatile zone cooking
• 360° grease management system and enamel-coated surfaces make cleanup quick and easy
• All-terrain wheels and folding prep tables provide excellent mobility and workspace for outdoor entertaining

Cons:

• Base construction quality concerns may affect long-term durability with heavy use
• Plastic control knobs are prone to breaking and some users report warping issues after multiple uses
• At 99 pounds, the unit requires significant space and may be challenging for some users to maneuver despite the wheels

Charbroil 28 Performance Series 2-Burner Propane Gas Griddle (463459924)

With 450 square inches of cooking space that can handle up to 25 smash burgers simultaneously, Charbroil’s 28 Performance Series 2-Burner Propane Gas Griddle becomes your go-to solution when feeding large crowds. You’ll appreciate the O-burners’ 3000 BTU power that delivers high temperatures quickly while minimizing cold spots. The heavy-duty cold-rolled steel surface won’t warp, even when cooking frozen foods. Built-in wind blockers maintain efficiency outdoors, while the grease management system with removable tray simplifies cleanup. At 77 pounds with convenient tool hooks and towel bar handle, you’ll find this griddle sturdy yet mobile for any outdoor gathering.

Best For: Large outdoor gatherings and events where you need to cook for crowds, especially if you frequently make burgers, breakfast items, or other flat-top cooking and want a sturdy, high-capacity griddle that can handle heavy use.

Pros:

• Large 450 square inch cooking surface with powerful 3000 BTU O-burners that heat quickly and maintain even temperatures with minimal cold spots
• Heavy-duty cold-rolled steel construction with anti-warping design and built-in wind blockers for reliable outdoor performance
• Convenient grease management system with removable tray, plus mobility features like tool hooks and towel bar handle

Cons:

• Assembly instructions are unclear and can make setup frustrating for users
• Regulator hose quality issues reported by some customers, potentially affecting gas flow and performance
• Difficulty achieving low cooking temperatures for delicate foods that require gentle heat

Cuisinart CGG-0036, 36 Four Burner Gas Griddle

The Cuisinart CGG-0036 delivers an impressive 760 square inches of cooking space that’ll handle meals for up to 10 people, making it ideal for hosts who regularly entertain large groups at outdoor gatherings. You’ll appreciate the four independently controlled burners producing 15,000 BTUs each for precise temperature control across different cooking zones. The cold-rolled steel surface guarantees even heat distribution, while the dual grease management system with removable front cups simplifies cleanup. At 96 pounds with integrated wheels, you can move it easily around your outdoor space. The folding design saves storage space when not entertaining.

Best For: Outdoor cooking enthusiasts and frequent entertainers who need to prepare large meals for groups of up to 10 people at gatherings, camping trips, or backyard events.

Pros:

• Massive 760 square inches of cooking space with four independently controlled 15,000 BTU burners for versatile temperature control
• Portable design with integrated wheels and folding capability makes it easy to transport and store
• Even heat distribution from cold-rolled steel surface and dual grease management system for easy cleanup

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 96 pounds may still be difficult to move despite having wheels
• Some customers report missing hardware upon delivery and mixed customer service experiences
• High BTU output may require careful monitoring to prevent overcooking on the large surface area

BBQ Future Universal Cast Iron Griddle for Gas Grill with Spatula Set

Grill enthusiasts who frequently cook for crowds will appreciate the BBQ Future Universal Cast Iron Griddle’s impressive 23″ x 16″ cooking surface that accommodates multiple portions simultaneously. You’ll benefit from its universal compatibility with Weber, Blackstone, Camp Chef, and other major grill brands. The high-quality cast iron construction delivers quick, even heating while thickened walls prevent warping under heavy use. You’ll find the side handles and high sidewalls particularly useful when managing large cooking sessions, as they prevent grease splashes and food spills. The full-width grease tray keeps your cooking surface clean, making it ideal for camping and tailgating events.

Best For: Grill enthusiasts who frequently cook for large groups and need a versatile, durable griddle that works across multiple grill brands and cooking surfaces.

Pros:

• Large 23″ x 16″ cooking surface accommodates multiple portions simultaneously, perfect for crowd cooking
• Universal compatibility with major grill brands including Weber, Blackstone, and Camp Chef, plus works on stove tops and electric grills
• High-quality cast iron construction with thickened walls provides even heating and prevents warping under heavy use

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 28.1 lbs makes it difficult to move and transport frequently
• Requires seasoning before first use and ongoing maintenance to prevent rust and maintain non-stick properties
• Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning which can be time-consuming given its large size

Onlyfire Universal Cast Iron Cooking Griddle, Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Coating (23 x 16)

Because this 23 x 16-inch cast iron griddle weighs over 23 pounds and features extra-high sidewalls with a built-in grease trough, it’s engineered specifically for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need to feed large groups without constantly monitoring spills or flare-ups. You’ll appreciate the dual handles that make transport manageable despite its substantial weight. The pre-seasoned nonstick coating delivers excellent heat distribution across its spacious surface, letting you simultaneously cook pancakes, bacon, burgers, and vegetables. With 4.5 stars from 557 reviews, customers consistently praise its durability and cleaning ease, making it a reliable choice for transforming your grill into an outdoor kitchen.

Best For: Serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need to prepare large quantities of food for groups while wanting excellent heat distribution and easy cleanup on their gas grills.

Pros:

• Spacious 23 x 16-inch surface with excellent heat distribution allows cooking multiple items simultaneously
• Extra-high sidewalls and built-in grease trough prevent spills and reduce flare-ups for safer cooking
• Pre-seasoned nonstick coating and durable cast iron construction deliver consistent performance with easy cleaning

Cons:

• Heavy weight of over 23 pounds makes it challenging to handle and transport
• Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning and maintenance with reseasoning recommendations
• Tends to slide on grill grates during use, though this doesn’t affect cooking quality

Royal Gourmet Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Gas Grill Griddle (PD1301S)

Delivering 25,500 BTUs across three independently controlled burners, the Royal Gourmet PD1301S transforms outdoor cooking for groups who need reliable heat distribution and easy portability. You’ll appreciate the 319-square-inch cooking surface that accommodates up to 15 patties simultaneously, making it perfect for feeding large crowds at camping trips or tailgating events.

The porcelain-coated steel surface prevents sticking while the integrated piezo ignition provides instant startup. You’ll find cleanup effortless thanks to the removable grease cup and detachable griddle top. At 29.3 pounds, it’s portable enough for transport yet stable during cooking, and the included waterproof cover protects your investment between adventures.

Best For: Outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need to feed large groups while camping, tailgating, or hosting backyard gatherings and want a portable griddle with reliable heat distribution and easy cleanup.

Pros:

• High-capacity cooking with 319 sq. in. surface that can handle up to 15 patties simultaneously, powered by 25,500 BTUs across three independently controlled burners
• Easy maintenance with porcelain-coated non-stick surface, removable grease cup, detachable griddle top, and included waterproof cover
• Portable design at 29.3 pounds with instant piezo ignition and stable construction for reliable outdoor cooking

Cons:

• Requires separate purchase of 20 lb. LP tank which adds to overall cost and weight for transport
• Some users report slight heat unevenness across the cooking surface that requires temperature adjustments during cooking
• Weight and size make it somewhat awkward to carry despite being designed for portability

Camp Chef Reversible Cast Iron Griddle for Outdoor Cooking

When you’re cooking for large groups at camp or in your backyard, the Camp Chef Reversible Cast Iron Griddle delivers the versatility and cooking surface you need. This 14×16-inch cast iron griddle gives you two cooking surfaces in one—flip it for grilling or griddling different foods simultaneously.

You’ll appreciate the pre-seasoned finish that’s ready to use straight from the box. The cast iron construction guarantees even heat distribution and retention, making it perfect for cooking smash burgers, bacon, and eggs all at once. It fits all Camp Chef 14 and 16-inch stoves and works effectively on outdoor grills.

Best For: Outdoor cooking enthusiasts and campers who need a versatile, large cooking surface for preparing multiple foods simultaneously for groups.

Pros:

• Reversible design provides two cooking surfaces in one griddle for maximum versatility
• Pre-seasoned cast iron construction offers excellent heat retention and even distribution
• Large 14×16-inch surface allows cooking multiple items at once for group meals

Cons:

• At 12.83 pounds, it’s heavy for backpacking or lightweight camping trips
• Lacks wire handles and taller sides that users frequently request for easier handling and preventing spillage
• Hand wash only requirement and cast iron maintenance needs may be inconvenient for some users

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Griddle for Large Group Cooking

When you’re shopping for an outdoor griddle to feed large groups, you’ll need to evaluate several critical features that directly impact your cooking success. The size of the cooking surface, BTU heat output, and number of burner control zones determine how much food you can prepare and how efficiently you can manage different cooking temperatures simultaneously. You’ll also want to take into account the griddle’s portability for transport and setup, plus how well its grease management system handles the increased volume of fats and oils from cooking for crowds.

Cooking Surface Area Size

As you plan outdoor cooking for large gatherings, the cooking surface area becomes your most critical consideration for efficiency and success. You’ll want to target griddles with 600 to 800 square inches of cooking space to handle large groups effectively. A 768-square-inch surface can accommodate up to 47 fried eggs or 30 burgers simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple cooking batches.

When you’re selecting a griddle exceeding 700 square inches, you’ll gain versatility for multiple cooking techniques—frying pancakes while grilling steaks at the same time. Look for models that create defined hot and cool zones across the surface, allowing you to prepare different dishes at various temperatures. This strategic approach optimizes your cooking process and guarantees everything’s ready together.

BTU Heat Output

Beyond cooking surface area, BTU heat output determines how quickly and efficiently your griddle will cook for large groups. You’ll want at least 30,000 BTUs total to handle large volumes of food effectively. Higher BTU ratings mean faster heating times, letting you start cooking sooner and maintain consistent temperatures when feeding crowds.

Look for griddles with multiple burners that distribute BTUs evenly across the cooking surface. This setup allows you to create different temperature zones, cooking bacon at high heat while keeping pancakes warm at lower temperatures simultaneously.

However, remember that higher BTU output increases propane consumption. You’ll need to balance your desired cooking power with fuel efficiency, especially during extended cooking sessions for large gatherings.

Burner Control Zones

Multiple burner control zones transform your griddle into a versatile cooking powerhouse that can handle diverse foods simultaneously. You’ll want to look for griddles with four or more independent zones that can deliver over 45,000 BTUs total, giving you maximum flexibility for large group cooking.

Independent burner control lets you create hot and cool zones across your cooking surface. You can sear steaks at high heat on one side while keeping pancakes warm on another. This eliminates cold spots and guarantees even heat distribution throughout your griddle.

When preparing complex meals with varying cooking times and temperatures, you’ll appreciate having separate controls for each zone. This feature accommodates different food preferences and cooking techniques, making large group meal preparation considerably more efficient and manageable.

Portability and Mobility

Portability and mobility become major considerations when you’re planning to cook for large groups at different locations or need flexibility in your outdoor cooking setup. Look for griddles under 100 pounds that won’t strain your back during transport to tailgates or camping sites. Built-in wheels and casters make relocation effortless, letting you quickly reposition your cooking station as needed.

Choose models with compact folding designs and collapsible side shelves to maximize storage efficiency in your vehicle or garage. Sturdy feet or bases guarantee stability on uneven ground, preventing dangerous wobbling while cooking large meals. Integrated handles provide secure grip points for safe maneuvering, especially when dealing with hot surfaces or moving between different cooking areas during your outdoor events.

Grease Management System

When cooking for large groups, an efficient grease management system becomes your best ally for maintaining a clean workspace and preventing dangerous flare-ups that can ruin your meal. You’ll want to prioritize griddles with removable grease trays or cups that make cleanup effortless after feeding dozens of people. Look for models featuring channels or troughs that direct grease away from your cooking surface, keeping your workspace tidy during extended cooking sessions.

Consider griddles with dual grease management systems that offer front-access cups you can remove without interrupting your cooking flow. These robust systems don’t just minimize mess—they enhance flavor retention by preventing grease from pooling on your cooking surface. You’ll cook more confidently knowing your griddle handles grease efficiently while you focus on preparing delicious meals.

Assembly and Maintenance

Before you commit to any outdoor griddle for large group cooking, you’ll need to factor in assembly requirements that can range from 30-60 minutes of setup time. Plan this into your cooking schedule, especially when preparing for large gatherings where timing matters.

You’ll also need to remove protective shipping oil before first use to guarantee peak cooking performance and hygiene. Regular maintenance becomes essential for longevity – cast iron surfaces require seasoning to prevent rust and enhance non-stick properties, particularly important when cooking multiple dishes.

Cleaning demands specific techniques using stiff brushes and non-dishwasher-safe methods to maintain surface integrity. Understanding your griddle’s grease management system simplifies cleanup after large gatherings, making post-cooking maintenance more manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Properly Season a New Outdoor Griddle Before First Use?

Clean your griddle with warm soapy water, then dry completely. Apply a thin layer of high-heat cooking oil across the entire surface. Heat on medium-high for fifteen minutes until it smokes and darkens.

What’s the Best Way to Clean and Maintain Griddle Surfaces After Cooking?

You’ll want to scrape off food debris while the griddle’s still warm, then wipe it down with a damp cloth. Apply a thin oil layer afterward to prevent rust and maintain seasoning.

Can Outdoor Griddles Be Used Safely in Windy or Rainy Weather Conditions?

You shouldn’t use outdoor griddles in rainy weather due to electrical hazards and rust risks. Light wind’s okay, but strong gusts affect heat distribution and safety. Always prioritize weather protection and proper ventilation when cooking outdoors.

How Much Propane Does a Large Outdoor Griddle Typically Consume per Hour?

You’ll typically consume 1-2 pounds of propane per hour with a large outdoor griddle, depending on heat settings and cooking intensity. Higher temperatures and constant use increase consumption, while moderate cooking reduces it.

What Accessories Are Essential for Cooking Large Meals on Outdoor Griddles?

You’ll need extra spatulas, squeeze bottles for oils and sauces, a large scraper for cleaning, heat-resistant gloves, aluminum pans for food storage, and a quality cover to protect your griddle investment.