Can You Put a Griddle on a Charcoal Grill: 2026 Guide

The ROVSUN Dual Fuel Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo bridges the gap between quick weekday cooking and slow weekend fire building. Instead of forcing you to choose between the speed of gas and the distinct aroma of charcoal, this freestanding cooker mounts both platforms on a single mobile cart. It targets backyard cooks, tailgaters, RV campers, and patio entertainers who want genuine versatility without crowding their deck with multiple bulky appliances.

Real-world cooking performance shines when taking advantage of both sides at once. The flat top griddle is powered by a 12,000 BTU propane burner that gets sizzling hot in minutes across 189 square inches of space, making it great for smash burgers, breakfast scrambles, or fajita peppers. On the other side, the 135-square-inch charcoal chamber gives you that classic wood and briquette smoke profile. An integrated airflow vent allows you to regulate intake air to keep heat steady for brats or open it wide for a fast, searing char.

Build quality balances portability with backyard practicality. Both cooking chambers come equipped with their own hinged lids, which help guard flames against sudden wind gusts and trap heat for more uniform cooks. The cart features folding support legs and integrated wheels, giving you the option to roll it across a gravel campsite or pack it into an SUV trunk for game day. Because the metal chassis is built with lightweight mobility in mind, keeping the exterior protected under a weather cover and oiling the griddle plate after every cookout is necessary to ward off surface rust.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward compared to many dual-fuel setups. The griddle surface uses angled channels that steer excess bacon fat and cooking oils directly into a removable catch cup. Over on the charcoal side, a bottom pull-out ash tray catches falling embers and spent dust, eliminating the messy job of tipping over a greasy barrel to clean out briquettes. Assembly is simple thanks to the folding leg framework, making it quick to unpack, fire up, and tear down.

While the compact 324 total square inches of combined cooking space means you will not be slow-smoking whole briskets for huge neighborhood block parties, it is scaled well for family dinners, campout breakfasts, and small tailgate gatherings. If you value having hot griddle searing and wood-coal fire at your disposal wherever you go, this dual-fuel combo delivers solid utility and dependable outdoor cooking fun.

Running two distinct heat sources at once changes the rhythm of your cookouts. The propane flat top heats rapidly, reaching steady griddle temperatures capable of delivering a crisp crust on burger patties and hash browns. Its 12,000 BTU burner supplies consistent heat across the steel plate, reducing frustrating cold spots while you fry eggs or caramelize sliced onions.

The charcoal side acts as your flavor engine. By adjusting the vent damper, you can settle the coals down for roasting drumsticks or stoke them hot to leave distinct sear marks on steaks. Having both fuel types side by side lets you transfer foods seamlessly, such as searing chicken breasts over raw charcoal heat and finishing them in a glaze on the gas griddle.

Cleaning dual-fuel cookers can be tedious, but this unit keeps the process tidy through smart separation. The flat top plate utilizes a channeled grease funnel that deposits rendered fat into a slide-out tray, preventing oil from dripping near the gas burner tube. Wiping down the steel griddle while it is still warm with a bit of water and a spatula takes only a few minutes.

The charcoal firebox incorporates a dedicated sliding ash drawer below the coal grate. Rather than scooping burnt powder out of a narrow pit, you wait for the unit to cool and slide the tray out directly into a metal trash can. Regular oiling of the griddle surface and storing the unit away from heavy rain will ensure long-lasting performance season after season.

The BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo is a dual-fuel outdoor cooking station designed for backyard grillers, tailgaters, campers, and RV owners who want the best of both worlds. This unit combines a propane-powered flat top griddle with a charcoal grill, giving you the flexibility to cook everything from quick-seared steaks to low-and-slow smoked ribs in one compact cart.

Who is this grill for? If you love hosting weekend BBQs with friends, tailgating before the game, or cooking at the campsite, this combo delivers. The 327 square inches of cooking space - split between a 187 sq in cast-iron griddle and a 140 sq in charcoal grid - can handle up to 20 burgers at once. That's enough for a hungry crowd without firing up a second grill. The propane side fires up fast with its U-shaped stainless steel burner (12,000 BTU), giving you even heat across the flat top for pancakes, eggs, or smash burgers. Meanwhile, the charcoal side lets you build a smoky fire for ribs, chicken, or brisket.

Cooking performance is where this combo shines. The independent cooking zones let you manage two different temperatures at the same time. On the propane griddle, you get strong searing ability and good heat retention thanks to the cast-iron surface. You can cook vegetables on one side while searing steaks on the other. For the charcoal side, you control the smoke flavor by managing the airflow and charcoal placement. It's not a dedicated smoker, but with careful fuel management you can achieve low-and-slow results for pulled pork or a brisket flat. The stainless steel burner provides consistent heat without hot spots, and the griddle's large cooking area means you can cook an entire breakfast spread without waiting.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The dual lids are sturdy enough to trap heat and smoke, and the cart uses heavy-gauge steel with a powder-coated finish that should resist rust with proper care. The two side shelves fold down for transport, and the three hooks on each side are great for hanging spatulas, tongs, and grill brushes. The wheels are heavy-duty with lockable casters, so you can roll this grill around the patio or load it into an SUV for camping trips. Assembly is straightforward, though you'll need two people to lift the main body onto the cart frame. Once set up, the grill feels stable on flat ground, but it's not designed for rough terrain.

Ease of use and cleanup are standout features. The propane side lights with a push-button ignition (no need for matches), and the charcoal side has an adjustable ash tray that doubles as a damper for airflow control. After cooking, the full-size grease trap slides out for easy dumping and washing - no messy drip pans to scrape. The charcoal ash tray also slides out cleanly. The flat top griddle requires a quick scrape and wipe down after use, but the cast iron will need occasional seasoning to stay non-stick. For storage, the grill's folded dimensions are compact enough to fit in a garage corner or under a deck cover.

Realistic limitations? The grill is heavy (around 60-70 pounds assembled) and wide, so it's not a backpacking option. Some users may find the charcoal side small for large cuts of meat - a full brisket might require cutting in half. Heat distribution across the charcoal grate can be uneven if you don't bank the coals properly. Also, there are no verified reviews yet, so while the features look solid, long-term durability is unknown. That said, for the price, this combo offers exceptional versatility. If you're an outdoor cooking enthusiast who wants both propane speed and charcoal flavor in one unit, the BESTFIRE combo is a practical buy for backyard entertaining, tailgates, and campsite kitchens.

The dual-fuel design delivers genuine cooking versatility. On the propane side, the U-shaped stainless steel burner heats the 187 sq in cast-iron griddle evenly, reaching high temperatures quickly for searing steaks or making a batch of breakfast sausage. The flat top holds heat well, letting you cook multiple items at once without temperature drops. For the charcoal side, the 140 sq in cooking grid provides a classic smoky flavor. You can control the heat by adjusting the charcoal amount and airflow through the bottom vent and ash tray. This setup works well for grilling burgers, chicken, and vegetables, but it can also handle low-and-slow cooking for ribs or pork shoulder if you manage fuel carefully. Just expect to add charcoal every 45-60 minutes for longer cooks.

This grill is best described as 'patio portable' - it's not backpack-friendly but rolls easily on its two large wheels and two lockable casters. The overall dimensions of 51.56 x 16 x 36.8 inches mean it needs a stable spot on your patio or a flat campsite. Setup out of the box takes about 30-45 minutes with basic tools (wrench and screwdriver). The side shelves fold down for transport, and the heavy-duty wheels handle grass and pavement well. The lockable casters keep it steady during cooking. For tailgaters, it fits in the back of a pickup or a large SUV with seats down. The integrated hooks and condiment shelf make it convenient to keep everything organized on site.

Cleanup is straightforward thanks to dedicated grease and ash management. After cooking on the propane griddle, scrape off food residue and wipe the cast-iron surface with a damp cloth - avoid soap to preserve the seasoning. The full-length grease tray slides out from underneath the propane side for easy rinsing. On the charcoal side, the ash tray slides out to dump cold ashes, and the cooking grid can be scrubbed with a wire brush. Both trays are removable and dishwasher-safe (hand wash recommended to prevent warping). For the exterior, wipe down with a mild cleaner after each use. Periodically check and tighten bolts, especially after moving the grill. With basic care, this combo should last several seasons of outdoor cooking.

The Grill Trade Portable Charcoal Grill is exactly what it sounds like: a mini, foldable tabletop grill designed for folks who love cooking outdoors but don’t want to haul around a massive smoker or propane setup. It’s a compact charcoal grill that measures just 16.5 x 23.2 inches when set up, and it folds down flat for easy storage in a car trunk, RV cabinet, or even a large backpack.

This little grill is best suited for campers, tailgaters, RV owners, and backyard cooks who need a quick, portable solution for small meals. If you’re cooking for just two to four people, maybe some burgers, hot dogs, or skewers, this grill handles the job without any fuss. It’s also a solid choice for patio cooks or apartment dwellers with limited space who still want that authentic charcoal flavor.

When it comes to real-world cooking performance, the adjustable air vents make a noticeable difference. You can open them wide for a fast, searing heat perfect for burgers or steaks, or partially close them for a slower, smoky cook. The chrome wire grate does a decent job at heat retention and leaves decent sear marks, though it’s not quite as good as cast iron. Smoke flavor is present but not overwhelming, which is typical for a small charcoal grill. Temperature control is manual, so you’ll need to keep an eye on the vents and add charcoal as needed – it’s not set-and-forget like a pellet grill.

Build quality is solid for the price. The metal frame feels sturdy, and the chrome wire mesh grate resists rust reasonably well. The folding legs snap into place securely, and the whole grill feels stable on a flat surface. There are no wheels, but at 1.58 pounds you don’t need them – you just pick it up and go. Weather resistance is decent; if you leave it outside uncovered, expect some surface rust over time, but it’s easy to wipe down and store indoors.

Setup and transport are where this grill shines. It comes flat in the box, and you simply unfold the legs and lock the grate in place – takes about 30 seconds. Cleanup is straightforward: let it cool, dump the ash, and scrub the grate with a brush. The lack of a grease management system means you’ll get some drips, so using it on a non-flammable surface like a picnic table or a fireproof mat is wise. Storage is a breeze since it folds to a slim profile.

Realistically, this grill has limitations. The small cooking area won’t feed a crowd, and the thin wire grate can let small food items fall through. You also don’t get a built-in thermometer or lid latch, so you’ll want to bring a separate thermometer and be careful when opening the lid to avoid flare-ups. But if you’re looking for an affordable, portable charcoal grill that’s easy to take on a camping trip or set up on a tailgate, this is a practical, no-nonsense option that delivers real charcoal flavor without the bulk.

The Grill Trade Portable Charcoal Grill delivers a solid performance for its size. With adjustable air vents, you can control the heat for direct searing or slower cooking. The chrome wire grate heats up quickly and produces decent grill marks on burgers and steaks. Smoke flavor is present, though you won’t get the same depth as a larger smoker. Fuel efficiency is decent – a standard charcoal chimney load will last about 45-60 minutes, enough to cook a meal for 2-4 people. This grill is best for fast grilling rather than low-and-slow, but you can manage a small rack of ribs with careful vent control.

One of the biggest strengths of this grill is how easy it is to take anywhere. It weighs only 1.58 pounds and folds flat, fitting into a backpack or trunk. Setup takes less than a minute: unfold the legs, place the grate, and you’re ready to light charcoal. It’s perfect for campsite cooking, beach trips, picnics, or tailgating where space is tight. There’s no bulky stand or wheels to worry about – just a compact, lightweight design that’s ready to go.

Cleaning the Grill Trade portable grill is straightforward. After cooking, let it cool completely. Dump out the ash from the bottom pan, then scrub the chrome wire grate with a grill brush or steel wool. The metal frame can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Because there’s no grease trap, drippings will fall into the ash, so it’s best to grill over a non-flammable surface and avoid flare-ups. Store the grill in a dry place to prevent rust. Overall, maintenance is minimal, making it a low-fuss option for outdoor cooking.

This portable charcoal grill shines in situations where full-sized grills are impractical. Use it for camping trips to cook fresh meals at the campsite, for tailgating in a parking lot, or for backyard picnics on a patio table. It’s also great for RV owners who want a compact grill that doesn’t take up much storage space. If you’re cooking for just yourself or a small couple, it’s perfect for a quick burger or steak dinner. Avoid using it for large parties or very windy days, as the small size and open design can make temperature management tricky.

The Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus is a 3-in-1 outdoor cooking station that brings together gas grilling, charcoal grilling, and a flat-top griddle. It’s designed for backyard cooks who want maximum flexibility without crowding their patio with multiple units. You can fire up the gas side for a quick midweek dinner, then load the charcoal side for a weekend slow-smoked brisket. Add the optional side fire box (sold separately) and you’ve got a Texas-style offset smoker.

This rig is best suited for grill enthusiasts who love to experiment. It works great for backyard parties, tailgating (if you have a truck or trailer to move it), and patio cooking. The griddle insert opens up breakfast and stir-fry possibilities, making it a true all-in-one solution. Just keep in mind that this is a stationary grill, not a portable camping stove.

Cooking performance is solid. The gas side heats up fast with three stainless steel burners producing 30,000 BTUs. You get even heat across the grates, and the cast iron grates retain heat well for good sear marks. The charcoal side lets you control temperature with an adjustable tray and dual dampers, so you can dial in the perfect smokiness for ribs or chicken. The included griddle heats evenly and is pre-seasoned, so it’s ready to go out of the box.

Build quality is a mixed bag. The grill feels sturdy once assembled, but the sheet metal on both cooking chambers is thin. One reviewer noted rust under the paint before assembly, which raises concerns about long-term durability. The cast iron grates are heavy and durable, but the overall frame and lid feel less robust than some premium brands. The grill is also very heavy at 170 pounds, so you won’t be moving it around easily. Assembly is a headache — instructions are vague and lack detail, so plan on spending a few hours with a screwdriver and some patience.

Cleanup is manageable thanks to the EasyDump ash pan on the charcoal side and the front-access grease cup on the gas side. The griddle is removable and easy to wipe down. You’ll want to keep the grates seasoned and watch for early signs of rust on the painted surfaces.

Overall, the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus offers great versatility for the price. If you value having multiple cooking methods in one package and don’t mind a challenging assembly, this grill will serve you well for backyard entertaining. Just be prepared to give it some TLC to prevent rust and make sure the charcoal lid closes properly. For grillers who want a dedicated smoker or a purely portable unit, look elsewhere. But for the weekend cook who enjoys both fast grilling and low-and-slow, this is a solid choice.

The gas side fires up quickly with electronic ignition and delivers consistent heat across the cooking grates. The three burners allow for zone cooking, so you can sear steaks on high while keeping vegetables on low. The cast iron grates hold heat well and produce nice sear marks.

The charcoal side offers excellent temperature control via the adjustable tray and dual dampers. You can run it hot for direct grilling or dial it down for low-and-slow smoking. The griddle insert works great for breakfast foods, grilled cheese, and stir-fries. It heats evenly and is easy to season.

For smoking, you’ll want to add the optional side fire box (not included). The grill itself can handle some indirect cooking, but true offset smoking requires the attachment. Overall, cooking flexibility is the big win here. You can switch from gas to charcoal to griddle in minutes, making it easy to tackle any meal.