When it comes to outdoor gatherings, the gas grill is a true centerpiece—a reliable workhorse that’s become a staple of backyard barbecues everywhere. Invented in the 1950s by Don McGlaughlin, the gas grill has evolved to be an essential addition to any outdoor kitchen, available today in an incredible array of over 1,500 models. Whether you’re interested in propane or natural gas, there’s a perfect fit for every cooking style and setup.
From ignition types to stainless steel grades, it’s easy to get lost in technical details or marketing lingo. That’s why we’ve streamlined the essentials in this guide, making grill shopping simple and enjoyable. Let’s find the ideal gas grill for you!
Blaze Outdoor Grills – The Perfect ENtry-Level Barbecue Grill for your Lanai Kitchen
Why Choose a Gas Grill?
1. Exceptional Heat
Top gas grills can reach upwards of 700°F, with premium models even surpassing 1,000°F, offering ideal temperatures for searing.
2. Instant Ignition
With a simple turn of a knob or push of a button, gas grills ignite almost instantly, often with a backup system for extra reliability.
3. Rapid Preheat
Unlike other grill types, gas grills preheat fast, ensuring the cooking grates are ready to create those perfect grill marks.
4. Superior Temperature Control
Gas grills not only reach high temperatures but can also maintain them evenly across the cooking surface, ideal for a variety of cooking techniques.
5. Versatile Cooking Options
Many models allow indirect cooking with multiple burners, making it possible to grill, smoke, and even bake outdoors.
6. Simple to Use
The controlled, independent burners make gas grills easy to operate, even for beginners.
7. Customizable Design
With options like additional burners, storage, and specialty accessories, gas grills can be tailored to your style and needs.
8. Modern Appeal
Featuring stainless steel finishes, LED lights, and other sleek design touches, gas grills complement any outdoor aesthetic.
Lynx Professional Grills and Components Lifestyle Photo – Elegant Outdoor Kitchens of Southwest Florida
Choosing the Right Grill Configuration
Freestanding Gas Grills
Mounted on a cart, freestanding grills offer the mobility and storage you need for propane tanks, with many models also featuring shelves and side burners.
Built-in Gas Grills
Designed for seamless integration into a custom outdoor kitchen or island, built-in models are great for establishing a dedicated outdoor cooking area. When installing in combustible islands, use an insulated jacket for safety.
Portable Gas Grills
Lightweight and mobile, these compact grills are ideal for on-the-go grilling. They come in countertop-friendly options, with wheels or carts for added convenience.
Outdoor Kitchen Islands and Kits
For a faster, more cost-effective setup than a custom kitchen, outdoor kits with gas grills offer the complete experience with minimal hassle.
Post & Pedestal Mounted Grills
These stable, compact grills offer a space-saving solution without sacrificing grilling power, ideal for smaller areas.
Fuel Type: Propane or Natural Gas?
Natural Gas Grills
Tied directly to your home’s utility lines, natural gas provides a cost-effective, eco-friendly fuel source that’s always available. Though installing a new line can be costly, it eliminates the need for propane tank refills and keeps fuel flowing even during power outages.
Propane Grills
If flexibility is a priority, propane offers the ability to move and place your grill wherever needed, making it perfect for portable units or homes without a natural gas line. With propane tanks widely available, it’s a convenient solution for grilling on the go.
Alfresco 56 Inch Luxury Deluxe Grill
Grill Size, Cooking Surface, & Burners
The size of your grill and number of burners determine how much and how flexibly you can cook. Consider your typical guest count, the largest group you’d cook for, and your favorite cooking techniques to find the best fit.
- Small Grills: Ideal for small families, with 1-3 burners, though multi-zone cooking may be limited.
- Medium Grills: Generally equipped with 2-4 burners, allowing for indirect grilling, often with extras like side burners.
- Large Grills: These 3-6 burner grills enable multi-zone cooking and are suited for larger gatherings.
- Extra Large Grills: With as many as 8 burners, these grills are designed for serious hosts and feature advanced options like rotisseries and searing stations.
Key Materials & Construction
Stainless Steel
Renowned for durability and sleek style, stainless steel resists rust and evenly retains heat. Choose high-grade stainless for the best longevity.
Cast Aluminum
Lightweight and naturally resistant to rust, cast aluminum grills hold heat well and are easy to move, though they can be prone to corrosion over time.
Porcelain-Coated Steel
An economical alternative, porcelain-coated grills prevent food from sticking and offer decent heat retention, though they may not be as durable as other options.
Blaze Professional 34-Inch 3 Burner Built-In Gas Grill With Rear Infrared Burner – Rotisserie Motor Close-Up
Grill Features & Options
Side Burners
Side burners add versatility, allowing you to cook pots or pans alongside your grilling. Some models include sear burners for intense, focused heat.
Rotisseries
Many premium grills come with rotisserie options, making it easy to slow-cook meats to perfection. These systems can typically be attached seamlessly to the grill.
Rotisserie Burners
These burners provide consistent, infrared heat for even cooking, perfect for achieving a crispy exterior on slow-roasted meats.
Grill Lights
Interior and knob lighting enhance visibility, making grilling in low light easy and safe, with an added touch of style.
Infrared Sear Burners
Infrared burners offer high, direct heat for restaurant-quality sears and help retain moisture in your food while reducing flare-ups.
With this guide in hand, finding your perfect gas grill is straightforward and fun. Explore our top models, consider the features that matter most to you, and take the next step towards creating a backyard space you—and your guests—will love!
We invite you to check out our online barbecue store below!
Ready to Build Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen?
As Southwest Florida’s premier outdoor kitchen contractor, we’re here to turn your vision into reality. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek grilling station, a full-service outdoor kitchen, or a cozy gathering space, our expert team at Elegant Outdoor Kitchens will guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to begin designing a custom outdoor kitchen that’s perfectly tailored to your style, needs, and outdoor space. Let’s create something amazing together—your backyard transformation starts here!
