16 Best Grill Tools and Accessories for Your Backyard BBQ Grilling Season
Do you enjoy grilling delicious food in the summer? Having the best BBQ tools is crucial for a fantastic BBQ. Whether you're grilling burgers for a casual cookout or slow cooking and grilling a mouthwatering brisket for a special meal, good BBQ tools can make a difference.
These best accessories, like tongs, spatulas, thermometers, and grill brushes, help you cook your food just as you want – perfectly seared, juicy inside, and bursting with flavour. But with so many choices, finding the best ones can be tricky.
That's where our expertise comes in. We've dedicated over 50 hours researching and testing various BBQ tools, including spatulas, meat thermometers, and grill starters, to help you discover the best options. If you're considering getting a grill, check out our recommendations for top-notch charcoal, gas, pellet, and portable grills.
You might have noticed that we still need to include grilling sets in this guide. That's because, in our experience, the tools in these sets often need to be more high-quality and well-designed. Instead, we recommend investing in high-quality instruments you need rather than paying for unnecessary extras that clutter your kitchen.
This article will introduce you to the must-have grilling tools for your BBQ adventures. Our research and testing will provide honest reviews to help you make the best choices. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these top-rated tools!
Top 10 BBQ Tools and Accessories Comparison
Tool/Accessory | Tool Description | Material | Key Features |
Grill Spatula | Flippin' Hero of BBQ. Wide, stainless steel, long handle, serrated edge. | Stainless Steel | Easy flipping, cool handle, serrated edge for testing doneness. |
Best Grill Brush | Your Grill's Best Friend! Strong bristles, long handle, scraper. | Durable Bristles | Effective cleaning, a safe distance from a hot grill. |
Best Meat Thermometer | Your Barbecue Temperature Buddy! Quick temperature reading, alarms. | Heat-resistant Material | Accurate temperature monitoring, and alarms for perfect doneness. |
Grill Basket | Your BBQ Food Saver! Sturdy, small holes, easy flipping. | Metal | Ideal for grilling small or delicate foods. |
Best Charcoal Grill | The Flame Whisperer! Authentic smoky flavor, easy temperature control. | Various Materials & Sizes | Classic smoky taste, various sizes, and styles available. |
Charcoal Grill Starter | Your BBQ Spark Wizard! Quick charcoal ignition. | Heat-resistant Material | Speeds up charcoal grill ignition. |
Basting Brush | Your BBQ Painter! Bristles, handle, for adding sauces and marinades. | Heat-resistant Material | Adds flavor and juiciness to grilled food. |
Weber Grill | The BBQ Boss's Choice! Quality, performance, and easy temperature control. | Durable Material | Trusted brand, various sizes, and features available. |
Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter | Your BBQ Blaze Booster! Quick charcoal ignition. | Heat-resistant Material | Speeds up charcoal grill ignition. |
Best Tongs | Your BBQ Grabbers! Metal, good grip, available in various lengths. | Metal | A versatile tool for flipping and grabbing. |
Lists of Top Pick BBQ Tools and Grill Accessories
1. Grill Spatula: The Flippin' Hero
Meet your BBQ's trusty sidekick, the best spatula! The flat, comprehensive tool makes flipping burgers, steaks, and veggies a breeze. Picture this: a strong handle that gives you the confidence to flip like a pro. Its stainless steel construction makes it challenging and easy to clean – no fuss!
But wait, there's more! A great spatula keeps your food in one piece without crumbling or falling apart. Plus, it keeps your fingers cool while you conquer the grill.
And here's the cool part: Look for a spatula with a long handle. That means you can reach across the grill without getting too close to those fiery flames. Some spatulas even have a fancy serrated edge – perfect for checking if your food's perfectly cooked.
2. Best Grill Brush: Your Grill's Best Friend!
Let's talk about the grill brush – it's your grill's best buddy! Think of it like a magic tool for keeping your grill clean and ready for cooking.
Here's the deal: Grilling can get messy, with food bits and grease sticking around. That's where the grill brush comes in. It's got firm bristles that scrub away the mess, so your grill stays nice and clean.
Now, you might wonder, "Why not use an old brush?" Here's the thing: a grill brush is made just for this job. It has a long handle to keep your hands away from the hot grill, and the bristles are tough enough to tackle even the toughest grease.
But wait, there's more! Some grill brushes even have a scraper, like a mini sword, for dealing with stubborn spots. It's like teaming up with your spatula for a BBQ cleaning adventure!
3. Best Meat Thermometer: Your Barbecue Temperature Buddy!
Let's talk about the meat thermometer – it's like having a temperature buddy for your BBQ adventures!
Here's the scoop: Grilling is all about getting the right temperature to perfect your food. And that's where the meat thermometer steps in. It's a simple tool that lets you know if your food is cooked correctly.
Now, why do you need one? Well, grilling is like a cooking mystery. You can't always tell if your chicken or steak is cooked inside just by looking at it. That's where the thermometer comes in. Stick it into your food, giving you a quick temperature reading. No guesswork is involved!
But here's the cool part: Meat thermometers are easy to use. Just stick the pointy end into your food and wait a few seconds. It'll tell you if your food is safe to eat and deliciously cooked.
And guess what? Some meat thermometers even have alarms that beep when your food reaches the perfect temperature. It's like having your BBQ cooking coach!
4. Grill Basket: Your BBQ Food Saver!
Now, let's talk about the grill basket – it's your BBQ food saver, and here's why it's fantastic in simple words!
Picture this: You want to grill small or delicate foods like veggies, shrimp, or fish. But they're so tiny that they might fall through the grill grates. That's where the grill basket swoops in to save the day!
So, what's it all about? It's like a sturdy metal basket with small holes that let the heat and smoky flavour in but keep your food from escaping into the grill's abyss.
Why do you need one? Without a grill basket, those tiny foods might say goodbye to the grill and end up in the fiery depths below. But with this handy tool, your food stays safe and cooks perfectly.
Here's the best part: Grill baskets are super easy to use. Just load them up with your favourite small goodies, put them on the grill, and let the magic happen. You can flip the whole basket so your food cooks evenly.
And guess what? No more poking each piece with a skewer or losing tasty morsels to the flames. The grill basket has your back, making sure you enjoy every bite.
5. Best Tongs: Your BBQ Grabbers!
Time to chat about the best tongs – your BBQ grabbers that make flipping and grabbing food a breeze!
Here's the deal: Tongs are like your grill's helping hands. Grill tongs are metal; you use them to pick up and turn food on the grill. They're like your trusty BBQ fingers.
Why are they important? Imagine grabbing a hot dog or a chicken wing with your hands. Ouch, right? Tongs keep your hands safe from the grill's sizzle.
But here's what makes them cool: Tongs are versatile. You can use them to flip burgers, turn sausages, and even pick up corn on the cob. They're like your grilling Swiss Army knife.
When shopping for tongs, look for ones with a good grip. You don't want your food slipping away mid-flip! Some tongs have a lock that stays closed when you're not using them. Handy, right?
And there's more – tongs come in different lengths. More prolonged tongs keep you farther from the grill's heat, which is helpful. Plus, they often have a scalloped edge for a better grip on your food.
6. Best Charcoal Grill: The Flame Whisperer!
Let's talk about the charcoal grill – it's like the flame whisperer, turning your backyard into a BBQ paradise.
Here's the scoop: A charcoal grill is like a big metal box with a grill grate. Inside, you put charcoal, like special BBQ fuel made from wood. When you light it up, the charcoal gets hot and prepares your food.
Why go for a charcoal grill? Well, it's all about that smoky flavour. Charcoal grills give your food that authentic, smoky taste that's a BBQ classic. It's like a flavour upgrade for your favourite dishes.
But here's what's incredible: Charcoal grills are super simple. Light up the charcoal, let it get hot, and you're ready to grill. Plus, they're usually smaller and portable so you can take your BBQ show on the road to picnics or camping trips.
Some charcoal grills have fancy features like adjustable vents for heat control or a built-in thermometer. But even the basic ones do a fantastic job at giving your food that mouthwatering smoky goodness.
7. Charcoal Grill Starter: Your BBQ Spark Wizard!
Get ready to meet the charcoal grill starter – it's like having a magic wand to light up your BBQ adventure!
So, what's the scoop? Think of the charcoal grill starter as your BBQ spark wizard. It's here to make starting your charcoal grill a piece of cake. No more fumbling with matches or lighter fluid.
Here's why it's incredible: Starting a charcoal grill can be a puzzle. But not with this fantastic tool. It's like your BBQ fire starter kit. You fill it with charcoal, put some paper underneath, and then light it. The grill starter does the rest; soon enough, your charcoal is glowing and ready for action.
But here's the best part: It's super quick. No more waiting around for the coals to catch fire. The grill starter gets them fired faster than you can say, "Let's BBQ!"
And guess what? It's safe to use. Your hands stay far away from the flames, and there's no need for lighter fluid that can sometimes make your food taste weird.
8. Basting Brush: Your BBQ Painter!
Now, let's dive into the world of the basting brush – it's like having a magical barbecue paintbrush in your hand!
Here's the deal: A basting brush is a simple tool with bristles at one end and a handle at the other. It's your secret weapon for adding tasty sauces and marinades to your grilling creations. It's like giving your food an extra burst of flavour and juiciness.
Why is it awesome? Think about it this way: Imagine you're grilling up some chicken. You want it to be tender, flavorful, and not dry. That's where the basting brush swoops in. You dip those bristles into your delicious sauce or marinade and paint it all over your meat. It's like a flavour makeover!
But here's what makes it fun: Basting brushes come in different shapes and sizes. Some have long handles for easy reaching, while others are small and perfect for precision. So whether you're basting a big turkey or some tiny shrimp, there's a brush for the job.
And guess what? It's not just for meat! You can use it to brush on some yummy garlic butter to your grilled corn or even coat your veggies with olive oil and herbs. It's like being a BBQ artist.
9. Weber Grill: The BBQ Boss's Choice!
It's time to talk about the Weber grill – the ultimate choice for BBQ bosses everywhere!
So, what's the deal? Imagine a Weber grill as your trusty BBQ partner, ready to turn your outdoor gatherings into sizzling feasts. It's like having your mini BBQ kingdom right in your backyard.
Here's why BBQ enthusiasts love it: The Weber grill is known for its quality and performance. It's built to last and delivers that classic grilled flavour we crave. Picture perfectly seared steaks, juicy burgers, and tender veggies – the Weber grill does it all.
But here's the best part: Using a Weber grill is a breeze. It's like the friendliest BBQ machine you'll ever meet. Easy temperature control allows you to cook everything just how you want – from slow-smoked ribs to quick-grilled hot dogs.
And guess what? Weber offers various sizes and styles to fit your BBQ dreams. Whether feeding a small group or hosting a big backyard bash, a Weber grill is perfect.
But wait, there's more! Some Weber grills come with cool extras like built-in thermometers, side tables for food prep, and even fancy colours to match your backyard vibe. It's like a BBQ paradise!
10. Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter: Your BBQ Blaze Booster!
Time to meet the Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter – it's like adding a turbo boost to your BBQ fire!
So, what's the deal with this gadget? Imagine it as your BBQ fire ally, here to speed up your charcoal grill's ignition process. It's like making your grill ready for action in record time.
Here's why it's fantastic: Starting charcoal grills can sometimes feel like a puzzle. But not with this nifty tool. It's like a magical fire-sparking tube. Fill it with charcoal, put some paper underneath, light it up, and watch the magic happen. The Rapidfire Chimney Starter makes your charcoal sizzle and roar, all set to grill.
But here's what makes it even more remarkable: It's super speedy. No more waiting for the charcoal to catch fire at a snail's pace. This starter revs things up faster than you can say, "Let's BBQ!"
And guess what? It's safe and easy to use. Your hands stay far from the flames, and there's no need for sketchy, lighter fluids that can make your food taste weird.
11. Best Chimney Starter: Your BBQ Fire Magician!
Get ready to meet the chimney starter – it's like having a magic wand for your BBQ fire!
Okay, so what's the deal with this nifty tool? Imagine a chimney starter as your BBQ fire magician. It's here to make your charcoal grill or smoker come to life with blazing flames in no time.
Here's why it's fantastic: Starting a charcoal fire can be tricky, right? But not with the chimney starter! It's like a superhero cape for your charcoal. You put charcoal on the top and light some paper at the bottom. The chimney starter does its thing; before you know it, your charcoal is glowing and ready to cook.
But here's what makes it even more remarkable: It's super quick. No more waiting around for the charcoal to catch fire. The chimney starter gets things going faster than you can say, "Let's BBQ!"
And guess what? It's safe to use. Your hands stay far away from the fire. Plus, pouring the hot coals right where you want them is a breeze.
12. Grill Gloves: Your BBQ Hand Armor!
Let's talk about grill gloves – your super armour for handling hot stuff on the BBQ!
So, what's the deal with these gloves? Imagine them as your secret weapon to keep your hands safe and relaxed while you conquer the grill. It's like having oven mitts, but cooler and more badass.
Why do you need them? Grilling means dealing with sizzling hot grill grates; you don't want your hands to feel the burn. That's where grill gloves step in. They're like a protective shield that lets you grab, flip, and handle your food without getting ouchie fingers.
But here's what makes them awesome: Grill gloves are made of unique heat-resistant materials, like Kevlar or silicone. It's like having a BBQ superhero suit for your hands. They can handle scorching temperatures so you can get your grill game on without worry.
And guess what? They're not just for grilling. You can use them for other hot kitchen adventures, like taking a pizza out of the oven or handling a steaming pot. It's like having multi-purpose hand armour!
But wait, there's more! Some grill gloves have a non-slip grip, so you won't drop your precious BBQ creations. They're like the sidekicks that never let you down.
13. Grill Grate: Your BBQ Grill's Secret Weapon!
Let's dive into the world of the grill grate – it's like the unsung hero of your BBQ grill!
So, what's the deal with this thing? Think of the grill grate as your grill's superhero sidekick. It's where all the grilling action happens, where your food gets those beautiful grill marks and mouthwatering flavour.
Here's why it's incredible: The grill grate consists of metal bars with spaces in between. These spaces let the heat from the charcoal or gas flames come through and cook your food. It's like a cooking ninja, making sure everything gets perfectly seared.
But here's what makes it even more astonishing: Grill grates come in different materials, like stainless steel or cast iron. Some have fancy non-stick coatings. Each type gives your food a unique taste and texture, so you can grill up your favourites just as you like them.
And guess what? Grill grates are super easy to clean. After grilling, please give them a good brush, and they're ready for your next BBQ adventure.
14. Grill Mate: Your BBQ Buddy!
Let's talk about the grill mat – it's like having a BBQ buddy right by your side! So, what's the scoop with this friendly helper? Imagine your grill mate as your trusty sidekick for all things BBQ. It's like having a buddy to share the grilling adventure with.
Here's why it's fantastic: A grillmate is there to lend a hand, like when you need an extra set of tongs or a quick recipe suggestion. It's like having your BBQ back-up team.
But what makes it even more remarkable is that your grillmate can also be your go-to for swapping grilling stories, sharing secret sauce recipes, or enjoying good company while the BBQ sizzles away. It's like a BBQ party made even better with a buddy.
And guess what? Grill mates come in all shapes and sizes – they could be your best friend, a family member, or even a neighbour who loves to grill. It's like forming a grill master alliance!
15. Magnetic Grill: The Grill's Secret Superpower!
Let's talk about the magnetic grill – it's like the hidden superhero of your BBQ world!
Now, what's the buzz about this magnetic wonder? Imagine your grill having a secret superpower: the ability to attract and hold on to all your grilling tools and gadgets, like spatulas, tongs, and brushes.
Here's why it's incredible: A magnetic grill is like a kitchen fridge with superpowers. It can hold your BBQ tools right where you need them – within easy reach while you work the grill. It's like having a trusty sidekick to hand you the tools whenever required.
But here's what makes it even more remarkable: It's super easy to use. Stick your metal grilling tools onto the magnetic surface, and they'll stay put—no more hunting for your spatula or juggling tongs while your burgers sizzle away.
And guess what? It keeps your grill area neat. No more tools scattered around or lost in the BBQ chaos. With a magnetic grill, everything stays organized and ready for action.
16. Grill Scraper: Your BBQ Cleanup Pro!
Let's talk about the grill scraper – it's like the superhero of BBQ cleanup! So, what's the scoop with this handy tool? Imagine your grill scraper as your trusty cleaning sidekick, ready to tackle the aftermath of a sizzling BBQ feast.
Here's why it's a BBQ essential: After all the grilling fun, your grill grates can get a bit messy with stuck-on bits and grease. That's where the grill scraper swoops in. It's like your secret weapon to scrape away the gunk and make your grill shiny again.
But it is even more remarkable that grill scrapers come in various shapes and sizes, like a metal brush or a simple handheld tool. They have sturdy edges to remove the tough stuff and prepare your grill for the next BBQ adventure.
And guess what? It's super easy to use. Give your grill a good scrape after cooking; it'll be clean and ready for action next time. You are no longer struggling with scrubbing pads or endless cleaning.
Grill Safety Tips
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the grill to avoid accidental burns. Use long-handled tools to flip and handle food.
Use Grill Gloves: Heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands when taking hot grates or cooking surfaces.
Proper Ventilation: Always grill in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of potentially harmful gases like carbon monoxide.
Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from the grill to avoid accidents.
Grill Placement: Position your grill on a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials like overhanging branches or wooden structures.
Gas Grill Safety: Check gas connections for leaks before each use, and store propane tanks upright.
Charcoal Grill Safety: Allow charcoal to cool completely before disposing of ashes in a metal container. Never dispose of hot ashes in a plastic or wooden container.
Safely Clean Grates: When the grill is turned off but still warm, use a grill brush or scraper to clean the grates, making the cleaning process more accessible and safer.
Food Safety: Practice proper food safety by separating raw and cooked meats, using a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperatures, and refrigerating leftovers promptly.
Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby for emergencies. Know how to use it in case of a flare-up.
Check for Gas Odor: If you smell gas while using a gas grill, immediately turn off the burners and the gas supply. Please only attempt to relight it once you resolve the source of the gas leak.
Avoid Loose Clothing: Wear appropriate clothing when grilling. Avoid loose or flowing garments that could catch fire.
Plan Ahead: Before grilling, prepare with all the necessary tools and accessories to minimise cooking distractions.
Key Takeaways:
The right grill tools are essential for a successful BBQ.
Spatulas and tongs are your grilling sidekicks for flipping and handling food.
A meat thermometer ensures safe and perfectly cooked dishes.
Keep your grill clean with a reliable brush.
Consider a toolset for added convenience.
Explore the best grill accessories to level up your BBQ game.
Conclusion
Having the best grill tools in BBQ is like having a secret recipe for success. Your trusty spatula and tongs make flipping a breeze, while a meat thermometer guarantees juicy, well-cooked masterpieces. Remember to keep your grill clean with a quality brush, and consider a toolset for all-in-one convenience. With these essential accessories, you'll be grilling like a pro in no time, impressing your friends and family with mouthwatering dishes all season long. Happy grilling!
FAQs
What is the best brand for grill tools?
The best brand for grill tools can vary, but trusted names like Weber, Cuisinart, and OXO are popular choices.
What tools do I need for a BBQ?
For a BBQ, essential tools include a spatula, tongs, a meat thermometer, and a grill brush to ensure a successful grilling experience.
What BBQ do chefs use?
Many chefs prefer charcoal grills for their BBQs due to the smoky flavour they impart to the food. Weber is a reputable brand often used by professionals.
What kind of grill is best for BBQ?
Many prefer charcoal grills for imparting authentic smoky flavour to BBQ dishes, while gas grills provide convenience and quick heat-up times.
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