By Allison Irwin
h, the summer heat, a season defined by poolside parties, beach trips, and the unmistakable scent of a good grill, sizzling away under the hands of the appointed BBQ maestro. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, the grill you use can make a world of difference. It’s like the secret ingredient that takes your cookout from good to mouthwateringly great. With that in mind, we've compiled the ultimate guide to the most popular grills of 2023.
Weber Genesis II EX-335 Smart Grill
Weber’s Genesis II EX-335 Smart Grill tops the list, blurring the line between traditional and high-tech grilling. Combining Weber’s reputation for quality with cutting-edge technology, this grill uses the Weber Connect app to send real-time grilling data directly to your smartphone. The Gourmet BBQ System grates, an infrared heating element for searing, and a side burner for simmering sauces or sides take your grilling game to the next level.
Traeger Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill
The Traeger Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill revolutionizes the grilling game with its combination of precision and versatility. This grill uses wood pellets and Traeger’s WiFIRE technology, enabling you to control temperature, monitor meat probes, and even receive recipe suggestions via an app. With a six-in-one functionality, it can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ to perfection. The Ironwood 885 features double-wall stainless steel insulation for consistent temperature and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for slow-cooking enthusiasts.
Big Green Egg Large
The Big Green Egg Large remains a timeless favorite among barbecue enthusiasts, famed for its unmatched versatility. Modeled after ancient clay Kamado cookers, it retains heat exceptionally well, offering top-notch temperature control. This grill can do everything: sear steaks at high temperatures, slow-cook brisket, bake bread, or even make pizza. Its ceramic build is super durable and fuel-efficient, requiring less charcoal than most grills. While it lacks the digital features of the first two, the Big Green Egg wins big on cooking quality and durability.
Char-Broil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill
The Char-Broil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill offers a solid, budget-friendly choice for families. It features four main burners and a side burner, perfect for cooking veggies or sauces. With a stainless-steel design, it’s not only durable but also easy to clean. The TRU-Infrared cooking technology ensures even heat distribution, preventing hot and cold spots while reducing flare-ups. Its spacious cooking area allows you to grill plenty of food simultaneously, making it ideal for parties and big family meals.
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500
Napoleon continues to impress with the Prestige Pro 500. It offers four primary burners, a rear infrared rotisserie burner, and an infrared SIZZLE ZONE™ side burner. This grill is a powerhouse of versatility, enabling you to cook in eight different ways, including smoking and rotisserie. The built-in smoker tube and dedicated burner let you add smoked flavor easily, and the backlit control knobs make night grilling a breeze.
No matter which you choose, the right grill can make the difference between a good summer gathering and a great one. It’s all about sizzling burgers, smokey ribs, grilled veggies, and most importantly, the joy of cooking under the summer sun. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and make this summer the most delicious one yet.