Charbroiler vs Griddle: What’s the Difference?

Metal griddle with plenty of roasted sausages and meat on grid inside with smoke coming out in sunlight

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and cook some delicious food for your family and friends. If you’re looking to add a little variety to your grilling repertoire, you may be wondering what the difference is between a charbroiler and a griddle.

Here are key differences between a charbroiler and a griddle:

  • A charbroiler uses direct heat to cook food, while a griddle uses indirect heat. This means that a charbroiler will cook food faster than a griddle. This is because the direct heat from the charbroiler will sear the outside of the food, while the indirect heat from the griddle will cook the inside of the food.
  • A charbroiler cooks food on bars or grates, while a griddle cooks food on a flat surface. This means that a charbroiler is better for cooking meats, as the bars or grates help to sear the meat and keep it juicy.
  • A griddle can be used to cook multiple items at once, while a charbroiler can only cook one item at a time. This makes a griddle more efficient for cooking large quantities of food.
  • A charbroiler is better for cooking foods that need to be turned, such as burgers or chicken breasts. A griddle can also be used to cook these items, but it is more difficult to flip them over without losing the juices.
  • A charbroiler typically uses propane or natural gas as a fuel source, while a griddle can use either propane or electricity. This means that a charbroiler is not always convenient to use if you don’t have access to a gas line.
  • A griddle can be used indoors or outdoors, while a charbroiler must be used outdoors. This makes a griddle more versatile and convenient to use. This is particularly true if you live in an apartment and don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
  • A charbroiler generally costs more than a griddle. This is because a charbroiler is a more specialized cooking device.
  • A charbroiler is larger and heavier than a griddle. This makes it less portable and more difficult to store.
  • A griddle can be used to cook a variety of foods, including pancakes, eggs, bacon, and grilled cheese sandwiches. A charbroiler is mostly used for meats such as burgers, chicken, and steak.
  • A griddle is easier to clean than a charbroiler. This is because a griddle has a flat surface, while a charbroiler has bars or grates that can be difficult to clean.

Now that you know the key differences between a charbroiler and a griddle, you can decide which is best for your needs. If you’re looking for a fast and efficient way to cook meats, then a charbroiler is the way to go. If you’re cooking for a large crowd or need the flexibility to cook multiple items at once, then a griddle is the better option. No matter which one you choose, you’re sure to enjoy delicious grilled food all summer long!