Top 8 Best Pellet Grill With Cast Iron Sear Grate of 2026 for Backyard Searing

The Camp Chef Deluxe BBQ Grill Box is a versatile single-burner accessory designed to turn any compatible Camp Chef stove into a full-fledged portable grill. If you're a camper, tailgater, or backyard cook who already owns a Camp Chef three-burner stove, this grill box is a smart addition that adds real grilling capability without taking up extra space.

This grill box covers one burner and gives you a 14x16 inch cooking surface – big enough for about eight burgers, a dozen hot dogs, or a mix of chicken and veggies. The pre-seasoned cast iron grate retains heat beautifully and produces those satisfying sear marks. Inside, the heat diffuser plates spread out the flame so you get even cooking across the entire surface. No hot spots or cold corners here. The included temperature gauge lets you keep an eye on your cook without constantly lifting the lid, which helps avoid heat loss.

Build quality is solid. The lid locks down with a heavy-duty handle, making it easy to carry and store. At 22 pounds, it's not ultralight, but it's manageable for campsite setups or tossing in the back of a truck for tailgating. The steel body feels durable enough to handle a few bumps and scrapes, and the black finish resists rust reasonably well if you keep it dry between uses. Cleanup is straightforward – the grate removes easily, and a grease tray underneath catches drips, so flare-ups are minimal.

One limitation to keep in mind: this is not a standalone grill. It needs to attach to a compatible Camp Chef stove base. If you're looking for a completely independent portable grill, this might not be the right call. Also, the cooking space is compact – great for small groups or side dishes, but you won't be smoking a full brisket here. For grilling burgers, steaks, fish, or veggies for 2-4 people, it's excellent.

In real-world use, the grill box heats up quickly and holds temperature well. The cast iron grate gets hot enough for a nice sear on steaks, and the heat diffuser prevents scorching when you're cooking delicate items like fish. I've used it for camping breakfasts (bacon and eggs on the flat side) and tailgate lunches (burgers and brats) – it performs consistently. The lid helps retain heat in windy conditions, a common issue with open grills at the campsite.

Overall, the Camp Chef Deluxe BBQ Grill Box is a practical upgrade for anyone who already owns a compatible Camp Chef stove. It adds genuine grilling ability to your outdoor cooking setup without adding bulk. If you're a camper, tailgater, or backyard cook who values portability and solid construction, this grill box delivers reliable results. Just make sure you have the stove base to attach it to, and you'll be cooking like a pro at your next outdoor gathering.

The FrameFirm BAC772 Reversible Sear Grate is an aftermarket grilling accessory engineered to elevate the direct cooking capability of standard outdoor cookers. Designed primarily for pellet grills, gas units, and charcoal setups that need a boost in surface contact heat, this 18.25-inch by 11.5-inch plate serves two distinct roles. It appeals strongly to steak enthusiasts, burger fans, and weekend breakfast cooks who want the thermal efficiency of heavy metal cookware without hauling massive, rust-prone cast-iron slabs out to the patio.

In terms of cooking performance, the BAC772 takes advantage of the natural thermal conductivity of aluminum. With a thickness of 0.6 inches, the plate absorbs heat from below and distributes it evenly across the cooking plane. The raised ridged side focuses conductive heat into tight contact points, assisting cooks who want defined sear marks on ribeyes, pork chops, and hamburgers. Flipping the accessory reveals a smooth, flat griddle surface suitable for delicate fish fillets, shrimp, asparagus, bacon, and fried eggs, turning a standard grill grate into a mini flat-top cooking station.

Build quality centers on an anodized aluminum alloy that delivers notable practical benefits over traditional cast iron. Tipping the scales at roughly 3.2 pounds, it is remarkably lightweight and simple to maneuver with grill gloves. Unlike traditional cast-iron griddles that can rust if left outdoors or exposed to humidity, this anodized plate is rust-proof and corrosion-resistant. It eliminates the tedious chore of applying continuous seasoning layers or scouring off orange oxidation before a family dinner.

Day-to-day handling and operation are straightforward, though following manufacturer guidelines is essential for long-term surface preservation. FrameFirm recommends preheating the grill to approximately 475 degrees Fahrenheit and applying a thin coat of high-smoke-point oil, such as canola oil, using a folded paper towel. Cooking sprays with aerosol propellants should be strictly avoided, as the chemical additives can damage the surface coating. Cleanup is relatively fast, requiring only warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth or sponge once the grate has cooled.

There are a few realistic limitations to keep in mind before adding this to your grilling kit. Because it measures 18.25 inches long by 11.5 inches wide, buyers must double-check their grill's interior grate layout to ensure a stable, flush fit. Additionally, while the anodized surface wipes down easily, it is not impervious to metal tool gouges, so silicone, nylon, or wooden utensils are strongly advisable. Cooks must also remember to follow the oil-application steps rather than relying on quick spray cans.

Overall, the FrameFirm BAC772 represents a sensible and affordable upgrade for backyard grillers who find their pellet grills or standard gas burners lacking in intense contact searing. By combining two cooking styles into an easy-to-clean, lightweight, and rust-proof aluminum package, it delivers real cooking versatility for everyday family dinners and game-day patio meals alike.

The primary advantage of the FrameFirm BAC772 is its reversible 2-in-1 cooking configuration. On one side, raised aluminum ridges trap and transfer heat directly into the meat, creating deep, distinct sear lines on steaks, burgers, and chicken cutlets that are often difficult to produce on pellet grills running at lower surface temperatures.

When turned over, the smooth, flat griddle side provides an uninterrupted cooking zone ideal for foods that would otherwise slip through open grates. This makes it simple to prepare morning bacon, eggs, hash browns, or delicate seafood like scallops and white fish outdoors without needing a standalone flat-top griddle station.

Routine care for the FrameFirm BAC772 is noticeably less labor-intensive than raw cast-iron alternatives. Because the anodized aluminum alloy is naturally rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, cooks do not need to worry about scraping away rust or undergoing lengthy oven re-seasoning cycles after washing.

To preserve the non-stick surface quality, the manufacturer warns against using aerosol cooking sprays, which can leave a sticky, baked-on residue that harms the finish. Instead, use a cloth or paper towel soaked in high-smoke-point oil. After grilling, let the plate cool and wipe it clean with warm water and a non-abrasive sponge to maintain its smooth cooking surface.

The BBQ Future Cast Iron Grill Sear Grate is a heavy-duty replacement and add-on accessory measuring 18.25 inches by 11.5 inches with a 2-inch height profile. Designed as an alternative for Traeger part BAC772, it integrates into ModiFIRE-compatible pellet smokers like the Timberline and Ironwood series while also sitting atop standard cooking grates on gas, charcoal, or outdoor burner setups. It is specifically aimed at pellet grill owners who want stronger direct searing capability, as well as flat top griddle cooks using 28-inch or 36-inch Blackstone stations who want traditional grill marks on their burgers and steaks.

In terms of outdoor cooking performance, cast iron remains one of the most reliable materials for heat retention. Pellet grills excel at low-and-slow convection smoking, but they sometimes lack the concentrated surface heat needed for a fast, dark crust. Preheating this solid iron plate allows it to soak up ambient cookbox heat and transfer it directly to proteins. The reversible design offers distinct cooking modes: the ridged side elevates meats to create distinct char lines while letting drippings vaporize below, whereas the smooth, flat reverse side works well for delicate fish fillets, scallops, asparagus, and smash burgers.

The build quality relies on solid cast iron, providing substantial heft that stays firmly in place whether placed directly onto cookbox support ledges or resting atop existing wire or porcelain grates. The 18.25-inch by 11.5-inch footprint gives you a dedicated searing zone while leaving the rest of your primary grill surface open for indirect roasting or holding finished sides. Because it is solid iron without delicate synthetic coatings, it can withstand high-temperature grilling without the risk of peeling or blistering.

Using and maintaining this accessory follows standard cast iron care. Cooks should preheat the grate inside the grill for proper thermal buildup and brush it lightly with a high-smoke-point oil before laying down food. After cooking and allowing the metal to cool safely, cleanup is handled with warm water and a stiff grill brush rather than harsh detergents or dishwashers. Periodically applying a thin layer of oil after drying keeps the metal seasoned, protects against moisture-induced surface rust, and helps maintain a naturally slick release over time.

There are a few practical limitations to keep in mind. Like all cast iron cookware, this grate is heavy and retains heat for a long time, meaning you cannot easily flip between the ridged and flat surfaces mid-cook without heavy-duty barbecue gloves and heat-safe tools. Additionally, when placed directly on top of existing grates on compact or portable grills, the added two inches of height reduces overhead lid clearance, which may affect cooking space for taller cuts like whole chickens. Buyers should also verify their specific cookbox or griddle measurements before purchasing.

For backyard grillers looking to overcome the mild searing limitations of standard pellet grills or add traditional grill marks to a Blackstone griddle station, this BBQ Future cast iron grate is a practical, value-oriented upgrade. Its dual-sided flexibility, solid construction, and wide model compatibility make it an effective tool for weeknight steak dinners and weekend backyard cookouts.

Cast iron is widely valued in outdoor grilling for its thermal mass and ability to hold high temperatures steadily. Pellet grills and low-BTU gas grills often struggle to generate a dark, even crust through air convection alone. By placing this solid iron grate in the cookbox during preheating, backyard cooks can take advantage of stored thermal energy that does not instantly drop when cold meat contacts the surface.

The raised ridges concentrate that stored heat directly into the meat, producing pronounced grill marks and rendering fat quickly. The flat reverse side acts like a mini plancha, maximizing surface contact for reverse-seared steaks, burgers, or delicate vegetables that might otherwise fall through standard wire grates.

Maintaining solid cast iron requires a different approach than cleaning stainless steel or porcelain-coated grates. It should never be washed in a dishwasher or soaked in soapy water, as standing moisture will strip the seasoning and promote surface rust. Once the grill and grate have cooled down to a warm, touch-safe level, use a standard grill brush and warm water to scrub away cooked-on food particles.

After scrubbing, dry the grate completely with a towel or place it back on a warm grill to evaporate lingering moisture. Finishing with a light wipe of neutral cooking oil across the entire surface seals the metal against ambient humidity and continuously builds a resilient seasoning layer for future cooks.

For backyard grillers who love the versatility of a flat top but don't want a separate appliance, the Traeger ModiFIRE Reversible Cast Iron Griddle is a solid addition to your outdoor cooking setup. It's designed specifically for Traeger's ModiFIRE grills, so you can turn your pellet grill into a griddle for everything from smash burgers and pancakes to seared fish and vegetables.

Who is this for? It's ideal for anyone who already owns a ModiFIRE grill and wants to expand their cooking options without buying another standalone griddle. Backyard BBQ enthusiasts, tailgaters, and patio cooks will appreciate the ability to cook eggs, bacon, and grilled cheese right alongside their smoked meats. Campers and RV owners might also find it useful if they have a portable ModiFIRE grill, but note that this griddle isn't lightweight enough for backpacking.

Real-world cooking performance: The cast iron construction delivers excellent heat retention and even heat distribution. You can get a nice sear on steaks using the ribbed side, while the flat side is perfect for making a large batch of pancakes or fried rice. Temperature control depends on your grill, but the griddle itself responds well to adjustments. It's not designed for low-and-slow smoking, but for fast grilling and griddle cooking, it shines. Fuel efficiency? Since it's an accessory, it doesn't affect pellet consumption directly, but using the flat top may require higher heat settings.

Build quality and durability: The enamel coating makes the griddle easy to maintain and resistant to rust compared to bare cast iron. It's a heavy 12 pounds, but that's typical for cast iron. The handle openings allow you to lift it with grill tongs or hooks, but there's no dedicated handle, so be careful when moving it hot. It fits securely on the grill grates and doesn't wobble. Weather resistance is good if you store it properly, but cast iron can rust if left in the rain.

Setup and cleanup: No seasoning required right out of the box - just wash it, oil it lightly, and you're ready to cook. After cooking, the recessed grease trap catches drippings, making post-meal cleanup easier. You can wipe it down with a paper towel and mild soap if needed. Storage is straightforward since it's relatively compact.

Limitations: The biggest limitation is compatibility. It only works with ModiFIRE grills, so if you have a different Traeger model or another brand, this won't fit. Also, the weight might be a minor issue for some when lifting on and off the grill. And like all cast iron, you need to dry it thoroughly to avoid rust. Overall, it's a practical add-on for anyone who wants griddle functionality from their Traeger grill. If you're a Traeger ModiFIRE owner and you enjoy cooking breakfast or searing burgers on a flat top, this griddle is a no-brainer. It's well-built, easy to use, and enhances your outdoor cooking repertoire.

The reversible design gives you two distinct cooking surfaces. The ribbed side creates those classic grill marks on steaks and chicken, while the flat side is perfect for making eggs, bacon, pancakes, or even a pile of smash burgers. The cast iron retains heat well, so you get a consistent sear without hot spots. When cooking on the flat side, the grease trap collects drippings, helping to reduce flare-ups and keeping your cooking area clean. It's a versatile tool for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the campsite or in your backyard.

Cleaning this griddle is straightforward. After cooking, let it cool slightly, then scrape off any food residue. Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush with warm water and mild soap if needed. Avoid soaking it for long periods to prevent rust. Dry it thoroughly and apply a thin coating of oil to maintain the seasoning. The enamel coating helps protect against rust, but it's still important to store it in a dry place. The recessed grease trap makes it easy to discard drippings - just wipe it out with a paper towel. With proper care, this griddle will last for many cookouts.

This flat top griddle is a solid addition to any outdoor cooking setup, whether you're a backyard BBQ enthusiast or a weekend camper. It's built for versatility, letting you sear steaks, fry eggs, or grill veggies on a single, even-heat surface. The griddle's design focuses on practical outdoor use, from patio parties to campsite breakfasts.

Who should buy this? If you love tailgating or RV trips, this portable griddle is a no-brainer. Its compact size fits easily in a car trunk or camper storage, and the flat top means you can cook everything from pancakes to stir-fry without needing multiple pans. Backyard cooks will appreciate the large cooking area for feeding a crowd.

In real-world use, the heat distribution is impressively even across the surface, which helps avoid hot spots that can burn food. Searing burgers or steaks gives a nice crust, though achieving a deep smoke flavor is tricky since it's not a smoker or pellet grill. Temperature control is straightforward with the burner knob, but wind can affect performance, so a wind guard helps on breezy days.

Build quality is decent for the price. The griddle surface feels sturdy and resists rust with proper care, but it's not heavy-duty cast iron. The legs fold for transport, and the grease tray slides out for easy cleanup. Wheels would be a plus for moving it around a patio, but it's light enough to carry short distances.

Setting up is quick: unfold the legs, connect a propane tank, and you're cooking in minutes. Cleanup is simple too—scrape off residue and wipe with a paper towel. The main limitation is that it's not meant for low-and-slow cooking or smoking; it's a griddle for high-heat, fast cooking. Also, the cooking surface can get scratched if you use metal utensils, so stick with plastic or wood.

Overall, this flat top griddle is a practical choice for outdoor cooks who want a portable, easy-to-clean cooking surface for everyday meals or gatherings. It's not a replacement for a smoker or charcoal grill, but it excels at quick, versatile cooking. If you need a reliable griddle for camping, tailgating, or patio use, this one delivers solid performance.

This griddle heats up quickly and maintains a steady temperature across the entire surface, making it reliable for cooking multiple items at once. The even heat helps you get consistent browning on pancakes or a nice sear on burgers. It handles high heat well for fast grilling, but you'll want to keep an eye on it in windy conditions to avoid temperature swings.

The Lonsge BAC772 sear grate is a cleverly designed grill accessory that brings restaurant-quality searing to your backyard, campsite, or tailgate. Measuring 18.25 by 11.5 inches, this reversible grate fits most grills—just rotate it 90 degrees to sit perpendicular over your existing grates. It works especially well with Traeger models but is compatible with many other brands too.

This grate is built for outdoor cooks who love a perfect crust on steaks, chops, or vegetables. The ridged side creates deep, dark sear marks that lock in juices and enhance flavor, while the flat side is ideal for even searing of burgers, fish, or pancakes. The anodized aluminum construction won't rust, making it a durable choice for weather-exposed grills.

In real-world use, the BAC772 performs best when preheated with the grill set to 475°F. A light coating of canola oil before cooking prevents sticking and helps achieve those beautiful marks. The ridges and valleys do a nice job capturing drippings, which adds moisture and flavor back into the food. For tailgating or camping, this lightweight grate is easy to pack and store.

Cleaning is straightforward—hand wash with mild dish soap and a soft sponge. Avoid metal scrubbers to protect the non-stick coating. For stubborn residue, a soak in warm soapy water works well. Always dry thoroughly and apply a light oil layer before storing to keep it in top shape.

One limitation is that it requires a specific preheating routine and placement on the left side of the grill. It's also not as heavy-duty as cast iron, so careful handling is needed to avoid dents. But for the price, it offers excellent versatility and performance for any grilling enthusiast.

Overall, the Lonsge BAC772 is a solid choice for backyard BBQ lovers, campers, and tailgaters who want to upgrade their searing game without a full grill replacement. It's practical, easy to maintain, and delivers consistent results that will impress your guests.

The BAC772 excels at delivering high-heat searing that locks in moisture and creates a flavorful crust. Preheating to 475°F is key—this ensures the aluminum gets hot enough to produce those deep sear marks. The ridged side is perfect for steaks, chops, and chicken thighs, while the flat side works great for delicate fish or even eggs. Heat distribution is even across the grate, thanks to the aluminum construction. You won't get hot spots like with some cheaper grates. The reversible design adds versatility, letting you switch between styles depending on what you're cooking. For tailgating or camping, this grate heats up quickly and maintains temperature well, even in breezy conditions.

Keeping the BAC772 clean is simple. After cooking, let it cool completely. Hand wash with mild dish soap and a soft sponge—no metal scrubbers or abrasive pads, as they can damage the non-stick coating. For burnt-on bits, soak the grate in warm soapy water for 15-20 minutes, then scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Before storing, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to protect the surface and prevent staining. The anodized aluminum resists rust, so you don't have to worry about moisture damage. Avoid the dishwasher, as high heat and harsh detergents can degrade the coating over time. With proper care, this grate will last through many seasons of outdoor cooking.

The Grilleroy BAC772 Cast Iron Grill Sear Grate is a specialized heavy-duty cooking accessory engineered to bring high-heat searing capabilities to a wide variety of outdoor cookers. Measuring 18.25 inches long by 11.5 inches wide, this 15.7-pound solid cast iron slab sits directly on top of existing grill grates or griddle plates. It is designed for backyard cooks who love the convenience or smoke profile of pellet grills, gas grills, or flat top griddles but desire the intense contact heat that only thick cast iron can deliver for steaks, chops, and burgers.

In practical outdoor cooking, cast iron excels because of its sheer thermal mass. While standard wire or stamped steel grates can lose surface temperature when cold meat is laid down, this nearly 16-pound grate retains heat to produce distinct sear marks and a crisp outer crust. The reversible build gives you two distinct cooking profiles. The ridged side lifts meat above rendering fats, allowing dripping juices to vaporize against the hot metal for added aroma, while the smooth flat reverse side provides full contact for delicate foods like fish, scallops, asparagus, and smash-style patties.

The build quality is defined by thick, solid cast iron that resists warping, even when exposed to high direct heat. Its structural integrity helps reduce rapid heat loss when opening the grill lid, creating a dependable hot spot across its surface. Compatibility is one of its strongest features: it matches Traeger ModiFIRE systems, including Ironwood and Timberline models, while also fitting popular gas and pellet cookers from Weber, Pit Boss, Camp Chef, and Charbroil. It is also sized to work across multiple two-burner and three-burner Blackstone griddles, expanding flat top stations into ridged searing setups.

Day-to-day handling requires acknowledging the realities of heavy cast iron. Placing the grate requires a stable grill cookbox, and moving it should only be done once the unit is completely cool or with heavy-duty heat-resistant grill gloves. Because this is cast iron, it should not be soaked in water or run through a dishwasher. Maintenance involves scraping off food residue after cooking, wiping it clean, drying it thoroughly, and applying a light coat of cooking oil to protect the iron and develop a natural nonstick seasoning with regular use.

There are a few practical limitations to keep in mind before buying. At 15.7 pounds, it is considerably heavier than standard aftermarket accessories, making storage and transport between the patio and campsite less convenient. In addition, cooks with smaller portable grills or compact kettle units should measure their interior cookbox dimensions carefully, as the 18.25-inch length requires adequate clearance to sit flat without obstructing lid closure.

Overall, the Grilleroy BAC772 is an excellent, cost-effective upgrade for backyard grillers who want dedicated steakhouse-style searing without having to replace their entire grill. If you own a pellet grill that struggles to produce dark sear marks, or a gas grill with lightweight grates, adding this heavy reversible cast iron surface delivers outstanding heat retention, flexible dual-sided cooking, and long-term durability.

Thermal retention is the critical factor when creating a deep sear on steaks, pork chops, and thick burgers. Lightweight wire grates often drop in temperature the second chilled meat touches them, resulting in gray steaming rather than rapid browning. The Grilleroy BAC772 solves this by packing 15.7 pounds of cast iron into an 18.25 by 11.5 inch surface, creating a concentrated heat reservoir that maintains high contact temperatures.

The ridged side features raised cast iron bars that channel rendering fats away from the meat while allowing rising heat to vaporize grease droplets for outdoor flavor. When flipped over, the smooth side delivers maximum surface contact, making it ideal for crusting smash burgers, searing delicate sea scallops, or caramelizing sliced vegetables without food slipping through the grates.

Caring for the Grilleroy BAC772 requires the same simple routine used for traditional cast iron cookware. After cooking, allow the grate to cool slightly, then brush away food particles using a grill brush or wooden scraper. Avoid harsh dish detergents and never soak the grate in water, as bare cast iron will quickly develop surface rust if left wet.

Once clean, dry the grate completely and wipe a very thin layer of high-smoke-point cooking oil over both sides before storing it in a dry location or inside your covered grill. Over time, heat and cooking oils will polymerize into a slick, durable seasoning layer that improves release performance and protects the metal against corrosion.