The Best Grill Tools You Must Have
Grilling enthusiasts know that having the best grill tools can elevate a backyard barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary. According to experts at Wirecutter and Good Housekeeping, these five essential grilling tools will help ensure your outdoor cooking adventures are both successful and enjoyable.
| Tool | Key Features | Primary Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Meat Thermometer | – Instant read – Digital display | – Ensures food safety – Achieves perfect doneness |
| Grill Tongs | – Long handle (16+ inches) – Spring-loaded | – Safe handling – Precise food manipulation |
| Grill Brush | – Durable bristles – Long handle | – Maintains grill cleanliness – Extends grill lifespan |
| Spatula | – Wide blade – Heat-resistant material | – Versatile for flipping foods – Prevents burns |
| Grill Basket | – Perforated design – Nonstick surface | – Grills small/delicate items – Prevents food from falling |
| Grill Fork | – Long handle – Stainless steel prongs | – Precise control – Safe meat handling |
High-Precision Meat Thermometer
A good meat thermometer is key for grilling perfect meats. The best ones are very accurate and give quick readings. Top models can measure within half a degree and show the temp in just one second. If you want to spend less, there are still great options. Some budget-friendly thermometers are accurate within two degrees and give results in 3-4 seconds.
Look for a thermometer with a clear display that’s easy to read. Water-resistant designs are helpful for outdoor cooking, and many come in different colors. Using a meat thermometer keeps your food safe and helps you cook it just right. It takes away the guesswork, so you don’t undercook or overcook your meat.
Essential Grill Tongs
Every grill master needs a good pair of long-handled tongs. The best ones are at least 16 inches long to keep your hands safe from the heat. Look for tongs made of two arms joined by a springy hinge. Oval-shaped, scalloped tips give you a better grip on food. Stay away from flimsy aluminum tongs or those with plastic tips that can melt. These won’t hold up to high grill temps.
Strong, well-made tongs let you move food around with ease and control. For a fancy touch, some tongs come with wooden handles. These look nice and work well for outdoor cooking. No matter which you choose, good tongs are a must-have for any serious griller.
Durable Grill Brush
A good basting brush is a must-have for any grill master. This simple tool helps you add flavor and keep your food moist while cooking. With a long handle, you can safely reach all parts of the grill without getting too close to the heat. The brush lets you spread sauces, oils, and marinades evenly over your food, making sure every bite is tasty. Look for a brush with strong bristles that won’t melt or fall out. It should be easy to clean, too.
A quality basting brush helps you cook better and makes your grilled meals more delicious. Whether you’re cooking meat, fish, or veggies, this tool will help you get great results every time you fire up the grill. Many brushes come with silicone bristles, which are heat-resistant and easy to clean, making them a popular choice for outdoor cooking.
Versatile Flipping Tools
A good spatula is a must-have for anyone who loves to grill. Look for one with a long handle to keep your hands safe from the heat. A wide blade makes it easy to flip food. Strong materials like stainless steel work best because they can handle high heat. Some spatulas do more than just flip. They might have sharp edges for cutting or even a bottle opener.
Comfort is key, so pick one that feels good in your hand. Holes in the blade can help drain extra grease, and a thin, angled edge makes it easier to slide under food. When you choose a spatula, think about what you’ll use it for most. With the right tool, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!
Precision Meat Maneuvering
Grilling forks are handy tools that work well with other grill gear. These forks have long handles, usually 18 to 24 inches, to keep your hands safe from the hot grill. Most are made of stainless steel because it’s strong and can handle high heat. Some forks are bent at an angle, which makes it easier to pick up and serve food.
There are even smart forks that can check meat temperature while you cook. When you’re picking a grill fork, look for one with a grip that stays cool. A fork made of all of steel is very strong. Also, make sure the prongs are long enough to hold different types of meat safely. With the right fork, you can handle your food easily and safely while grilling.
Grilled Veggie Perfection
Veggie baskets are must-have grilling tools. They make it easy to cook small or delicate foods on the grill. These baskets are usually made of strong steel that won’t rust. They have lots of small holes that let heat and smoke in but keep food from falling through. Many baskets are big enough to cook for a whole family. They have high sides to hold plenty of food.
You can use these baskets for more than just veggies. They’re great for shrimp, fish, and small pieces of meat, too. Most baskets are easy to clean – you can even put them in the dishwasher. They’re built to handle high heat without bending. Using a basket helps you get that yummy, smoky flavor on your veggies. It also keeps your food safe on the grill so nothing falls into the fire.
