Best Propane Grills That Can Handle Cast Iron Skillets (Camping-Ready)
When I’m cooking outdoors, I love using my cast iron skillet on the grill. It’s perfect for searing steaks, sautéing vegetables, or even baking cornbread. However, not all propane grills can handle the weight and heat retention of cast iron cookware. After testing and researching, I’ve compiled a list of the best propane grills that are compatible with cast iron skillets, ensuring even heat distribution and durability.
Table of Contents
Top Propane Grills Compatible with Cast Iron Skillets
1. Weber Genesis E-325s 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
The Weber Genesis E-325s is a powerhouse when it comes to handling cast iron cookware. With its porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates, it provides excellent heat retention and even cooking. The spacious cooking area allows me to place a large skillet without any issues.
Key Features:
- 39,000 BTU main burners
- Extra-large sear zone
- Compatible with Weber Crafted accessories
- Durable construction for long-term use
2. Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
The Napoleon Prestige 500 offers a robust grilling experience with its stainless steel construction and infrared side burner, which is perfect for heating up cast iron skillets quickly. I’ve used it to cook everything from fajitas to skillet brownies.
Highlights:
- 48,000 BTU main burners
- Infrared side and rear burners
- Large cooking surface
- Jetfire ignition system
3. Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Cart Style Gas Grill
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner grill is a great choice. Its porcelain-coated cast iron grates are durable and provide a non-stick surface, making it ideal for cast iron skillet cooking.
Why I recommend it:
- 36,000 BTU main burners
- 10,000 BTU side burner
- Swing-away warming rack
- Easy-to-clean grease tray
4. Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner Stove
The Camp Chef Explorer is not your traditional grill, but its high-output burners make it perfect for cast iron skillet cooking. I’ve taken it on camping trips, and it handles cast iron cookware with ease.
Features:
- 30,000 BTU burners
- Detachable legs for portability
- Compatible with various Camp Chef accessories
- Durable cast aluminum burners
5. Blackstone 36 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill
The Blackstone 36 Inch Flat Top is a favorite among outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its flat top griddle surface is essentially a large cast iron skillet, making it perfect for cooking multiple items simultaneously.
Top features:
- 60,000 BTU output
- Four independently controlled burners
- Rolled steel cooktop
- Easy grease management system
Tips for Using Cast Iron Skillets on Propane Grills
When using a cast iron skillet on a propane grill, here are some tips I’ve learned:
- Preheat the skillet: Allow the skillet to heat up gradually to prevent cracking.
- Use indirect heat: This helps in even cooking and prevents hotspots.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: Don’t place a cold skillet on a hot grill or vice versa.
- Clean and season regularly: Maintain the skillet’s non-stick surface and prevent rusting.
Final Thoughts
Cooking with a cast iron skillet on a propane grill elevates the outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re searing meats or baking desserts, the combination offers versatility and flavor. The grills mentioned above have proven to handle cast iron cookware effectively, ensuring delicious meals every time.
Ready to enhance your grilling experience?
Click here to explore top-rated propane grills compatible with cast iron skillets on Amazon.
One of the main reasons I love using cast iron skillets on propane grills is the heat retention. Cast iron holds heat better than almost any other material, which means your food stays hot even if you open the lid or lift the skillet briefly. That’s a big deal when you’re cooking outdoors where wind and cold can interfere with temperature consistency.
Most people don’t realize that cast iron cookware actually performs better on open flame grills than on indoor stovetops. A propane grill delivers direct, concentrated heat, which is ideal for properly searing meats or getting a golden crust on cornbread and potatoes.
When you’re cooking with a heavy cast iron pan, your grill grates need to be strong enough to support the weight. That’s why I always check for cast iron or stainless steel grates instead of flimsy wire options. Durable grates not only support heavier cookware, but they also spread heat more evenly.
If you’re planning to use a cast iron skillet regularly, make sure your grill offers ample burner output, preferably over 10,000 BTUs per burner. Anything lower, and your skillet might not get hot enough for proper browning or frying.
Another thing to keep in mind is the cooking space. Cast iron pans are typically wide and bulky. You’ll want a grill with at least 200 square inches of usable surface area if you’re working with larger pans or multiple skillets at once.
I always recommend choosing a propane grill with a flat, stable cooking surface. Uneven grates can make a skillet wobble, which isn’t just annoying—it can be dangerous. Flat-top grills or models with wide grates and support bars are a safer option.
If you love cooking with cast iron, you might also appreciate a grill that includes a side burner. I often use mine to preheat the skillet or finish sauces while the main dish cooks on the central grates. It adds more flexibility without crowding the main cooking area.
Some tabletop propane grills are powerful enough to handle cast iron cookware, but be sure to check the grill’s weight limits. Cast iron can get very heavy when filled with food, so avoid cheaper grills that might warp or bend over time.
Cleaning is another factor. When I cook with cast iron on my propane grill, I want to make sure there’s a grease management system in place. A removable tray or drain system makes cleanup faster and prevents flare-ups during cooking.
You also want to think about lid clearance. If you’re cooking in a deep cast iron pan or using a Dutch oven, the lid of the grill should be tall enough to close over the pan. Low-profile grills can be limiting in this area.
It’s worth noting that not all propane grills heat evenly across their surfaces. That’s why multi-burner grills are usually better for cast iron use. You can control the temperature across different zones and move your pan as needed without burning the food.
Finally, don’t forget to bring along heat-resistant gloves and a good pair of tongs. Cast iron gets extremely hot, and handling it safely requires proper gear—especially when you’re cooking on a propane grill where space is limited.