Grilling enthusiasts know that having the right tools can make all the difference in creating delicious outdoor meals. As we approach the 2024 grilling season, it’s important to consider which BBQ essentials will enhance the cooking experience and produce better results.
The best BBQ tools for 2024 combine durability, functionality, and innovative features to help grillers of all skill levels achieve great results. From spatulas and tongs to thermometers and grill brushes, a well-equipped grilling arsenal allows for precise cooking, easier cleanup, and safer handling of hot foods. With the right tools at hand, backyard chefs can focus on perfecting their culinary creations and enjoying time with family and friends.
1) Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter
The Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter stands out as an essential tool for charcoal grilling enthusiasts in 2024. This device offers a quick and efficient method to light charcoal briquettes without the need for lighter fluid.
Constructed from durable aluminized steel, the Rapidfire Chimney Starter features two handles for easy and safe handling. Its cylindrical design holds enough charcoal to fill a standard kettle grill.
The cone-shaped bottom ensures briquettes ignite quickly, reducing the time between lighting and cooking. Users simply place newspaper in the bottom compartment and fill the top with charcoal.
Weber offers both standard and compact sizes to accommodate different grill sizes. The compact version is particularly suitable for smaller grills like the Smokey Joe.
Grilling enthusiasts appreciate the Rapidfire Chimney Starter for its convenience and effectiveness. It eliminates the need for chemical accelerants, allowing for a cleaner burning fire and better-tasting food.
This tool proves to be a reliable and practical addition to any barbecue setup. Its consistent performance and ease of use make it a top choice for both novice and experienced grillers in 2024.
2) Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan
The Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan stands out as a top choice for BBQ enthusiasts in 2024. This durable pan is made in the USA and offers exceptional heat retention and distribution.
Its ribbed cooking surface creates appealing grill marks on food while channeling away excess grease. This feature is particularly useful for cooking high-fat foods like burgers.
The pan’s cast iron construction allows it to withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for both stovetop and oven use. It comes pre-seasoned, providing a natural non-stick surface that improves with use.
Lodge’s grill pan measures 11 inches square, offering ample cooking space for multiple items. The depth of its grill grates strikes a balance between creating distinct marks and ensuring even cooking.
Versatility is a key advantage of this pan. It excels at grilling meats, vegetables, and even sandwiches, bringing outdoor grilling flavors indoors year-round.
While heavier than some alternatives, the pan’s weight contributes to its heat retention properties. Proper care and seasoning will ensure this Lodge grill pan remains a kitchen staple for years to come.
3) Thermapen ONE Instant-Read Thermometer
The Thermapen ONE is a top-tier instant-read thermometer for BBQ enthusiasts and home chefs in 2024. It provides exceptionally fast and accurate temperature readings, displaying results in just one second.
This thermometer boasts impressive accuracy, with readings precise to ±0.5°F (±0.3°C). Its digital display shows temperatures to the decimal point, allowing for more precise cooking control.
The Thermapen ONE features a tapered probe tip that easily inserts into various foods. This design makes it ideal for checking temperatures of meats, poultry, and fish on the grill or in the oven.
Durability is a key feature of the Thermapen ONE. It’s built to withstand the rigors of frequent use in outdoor cooking environments.
The device is user-friendly with an auto-rotating display that adjusts based on how it’s held. This feature ensures easy reading from any angle while grilling or cooking.
For BBQ enthusiasts seeking precision in their cooking, the Thermapen ONE is a valuable tool. It helps achieve desired doneness in meats and ensures food safety by providing quick, accurate internal temperature readings.
4) OXO Good Grips Basting Brush
The OXO Good Grips Basting Brush stands out as an essential BBQ tool for 2024. This versatile utensil enhances grilling experiences with its thoughtful design and durable construction.
The brush features silicone bristles that resist high temperatures, making it ideal for applying marinades and sauces to hot foods. Its bristles are angled to reach into corners and crevices, ensuring thorough coverage.
OXO’s signature non-slip grip provides comfort and control, even with oily hands. The brush’s long handle keeps users at a safe distance from heat sources.
This basting brush is dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup after grilling sessions. Its durability ensures it will last through many BBQ seasons.
For the 2024 grilling season, the OXO Good Grips Basting Brush remains a top choice among grill enthusiasts. Its reliable performance and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking toolkit.
5) Grillaholics BBQ Grill Mats
Grillaholics BBQ Grill Mats are a versatile addition to any griller’s toolkit. These non-stick mats provide a smooth cooking surface that prevents food from falling through grill grates.
The mats are made from heat-resistant materials that can withstand high temperatures. They allow for even heat distribution, ensuring food cooks uniformly.
Grillaholics offers their grill mats in various pack sizes, including 2-packs and 3-packs. This allows users to choose the quantity that best suits their grilling needs.
One of the key benefits of these mats is their ability to keep grills clean. They minimize direct contact between food and grates, reducing stuck-on residue and making cleanup easier.
The mats are particularly useful for grilling delicate items like fish or vegetables. They prevent these foods from breaking apart or slipping through the grates.
Grillaholics BBQ Grill Mats are reusable and dishwasher safe. This makes them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for frequent grillers.
6) Bear Paws Shredder Claws
Bear Paws Shredder Claws have become a staple tool for BBQ enthusiasts in 2024. These meat-shredding implements are designed to efficiently tear through cooked meats with ease.
Made in the USA from BPA-free nylon, Bear Paws are FDA-approved and heat-resistant up to 475 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes them safe for use with hot meats straight off the grill or smoker.
The National BBQ Association has recognized Bear Paws as the “Best BBQ Tool.” This endorsement speaks to their effectiveness and popularity among barbecue professionals and home cooks alike.
Bear Paws have gained visibility through appearances on popular cooking shows. They’ve been featured on BBQ Pitmasters, Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and America’s Test Kitchen.
These claws excel at shredding pork for pulled pork sandwiches. They’re also useful for handling and cutting other types of meat. Their ergonomic design allows for comfortable use during extended cooking sessions.
For the 2024 holiday season, Bear Paws purchased between November 1 and December 31 can be returned until January 31, 2025. This extended return policy adds value for gift-givers and recipients.
7) Traeger Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs
Traeger’s Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs are a standout grilling tool for 2024. These tongs feature durable stainless steel construction, ensuring longevity and resistance to rust.
The 16.5-inch length provides ample reach, keeping hands safely away from heat while maneuvering food on the grill. A strong teak wood handle offers a comfortable grip and aesthetic appeal.
A convenient locking mechanism keeps the tongs closed when not in use, saving storage space. The addition of a leather loop allows for easy hanging and accessibility.
These tongs excel at flipping and moving various meats and other foods on the grill. Their serrated edges provide a secure grip on food items, reducing the risk of slippage.
Traeger’s BBQ Tongs are part of their essential grilling accessories line, designed to complement their pellet grills. However, they are versatile enough for use with any type of grill or outdoor cooking setup.
For grilling enthusiasts seeking reliable, well-crafted tools, Traeger’s Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs are a worthy investment for the 2024 grilling season.
8) GrillPro Gas Barbecue Griddle
The GrillPro Gas Barbecue Griddle is a versatile addition to any outdoor cooking setup. This flat cooking surface attaches to gas grills, expanding culinary possibilities beyond traditional grilling.
Made of durable materials, the griddle offers even heat distribution for consistent cooking results. Its smooth surface is ideal for preparing foods that might fall through standard grill grates.
Users can cook a variety of dishes, from breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs to stir-fries and smash burgers. The large cooking area accommodates multiple items at once, making it perfect for feeding groups.
The griddle’s design often includes a grease management system, channeling excess oils away from food for healthier cooking. It’s typically easy to clean, with many models featuring a non-stick surface.
GrillPro’s reputation for quality barbecue accessories extends to this griddle, ensuring a reliable product for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. It’s a practical tool for those looking to diversify their grilling options in 2024.
9) Himalayan Salt BBQ Plank
Himalayan salt BBQ planks have become popular grilling accessories in recent years. These pink salt slabs add a unique flavor to foods while cooking or serving.
The planks can be heated on the grill or in the oven to cook foods directly on the salt surface. As they heat up, they impart a subtle salty mineral taste to meats, seafood, and vegetables.
Many grillers also use cold salt planks as serving platters for cheeses, sushi, or chilled desserts. The natural antibacterial properties of salt help keep foods fresh.
Salt planks are versatile tools that work for both hot and cold applications. They retain temperature well, staying hot or cold for extended periods when serving.
Cleaning is simple – just wipe with a damp cloth after use. With proper care, a quality Himalayan salt plank can last for many grilling sessions.
When shopping for a salt plank, look for thick slabs at least 1.5 inches thick for durability. An 8×8 inch size works well for most grilling needs.
10) Cuisinart Grill Cleaning Brush
The Cuisinart Grill Cleaning Brush is a standout tool for maintaining a pristine barbecue grill. This stainless steel brush boasts durability and effectiveness in tackling tough grime and residue.
With a length of 16.5 inches, the brush offers excellent reach, allowing users to clean every corner of their grill. Its design enables thorough cleaning of grates, ensuring optimal cooking surfaces for future use.
The brush features a sleek appearance that complements other grilling accessories. Its sturdy construction withstands the high temperatures associated with grill cleaning tasks.
Cuisinart’s grill brush is suitable for various grill types, making it a versatile choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. It performs well during regular maintenance and deep cleaning sessions alike.
The brush’s efficiency contributes to shorter cleaning times, allowing grill masters to focus more on cooking and less on cleanup. Its ease of use makes it accessible for both novice and experienced grillers.
Importance of Quality BBQ Tools
Quality BBQ tools are essential for achieving great results when grilling. They impact
Latest Innovations in BBQ Tools for 2024
BBQ enthusiasts can expect exciting advancements in grilling technology this year. Smart features and sustainable materials are at the forefront of BBQ tool innovations for 2024.
Smart BBQ Grills
Wi-Fi connected grills are revolutionizing outdoor cooking. These high-tech devices allow users to monitor and control temperatures remotely via smartphone apps. Some models incorporate AI-powered cooking assistants that provide step-by-step recipes and guidance.
Precision temperature control is another key feature. Advanced sensors and algorithms maintain consistent heat levels throughout the cooking process. This ensures perfectly grilled meats and vegetables every time.
Voice-activated controls are becoming more common. Grillmasters can adjust settings hands-free, enhancing convenience and safety during busy cookouts.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Sustainable BBQ tools are gaining popularity in 2024. Manufacturers are using recycled metals and responsibly sourced woods for grill construction and accessories.
Biodegradable cleaning products designed specifically for grills have emerged. These eco-friendly solutions effectively remove grease and grime without harsh chemicals.
Plant-based grill mats and liners offer a non-stick cooking surface while being compostable. They reduce cleanup time and minimize environmental impact.
Solar-powered grill lights and thermometers are now available. These energy-efficient accessories extend grilling sessions into the evening hours without increasing carbon footprints.