Best 18-Inch Round Cast Iron Griddles for Outdoor Cooking
Looking for a durable, versatile 18-inch round cast iron griddle that fits your charcoal kettle or large grill? This guide highlights five top options, explains who each product suits best, and notes practical limitations. Whether you’re searing steaks, cooking seafood, or frying breakfast outdoors, these griddles offer reliable heat retention and a wide cooking surface. The top picks are best for different grill models, so choose based on your setup and cooking style.
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| 18″ Round Cast Iron Griddle for Oklahoma Joe’s & More Charcoal Kettle Grill | Weber, Oklahoma Joe’s, Kamado Joe, Big Green Egg on 18″ grills |
| Heavy Cast Iron Griddle for Weber 18″ Kettle | Weber 18″ Kettle, Bar-B-Kettle, Jumbo Joe |
| Heavy Cast Iron Cooking Griddle for BGE Large & Kamado Joe | Big Green Egg Large and Kamado Joe 18″ grills |
| Full-Size Griddle Insert for Monument 4-Burner Grill | Monument 4-Burner line and similar inserts |
| 18″ Cast Iron Griddle, Portable Campfire Grill | Camping, outdoor camping and portable setups |
18″ Round Cast Iron Griddle for Oklahoma Joe’s & More
- Universal Fit: Designed for 18″ and 22″ charcoal grills including Weber Original/Performer, Oklahoma Joe’s 7577447P04, Kamado Joe, Big Green Egg, Nexgrill, and other round grills.
- Premium Cast Iron: Ensures even heat distribution for searing steaks, burgers, and more; built to last for years of outdoor use.
- Versatile Surface: Ideal for searing, seafood, and vegetables with a spacious cooking area.
Best for: Grills that are designed to accommodate 18″ rounds and multiple brands. Choose this if you want broad compatibility and a classic searing surface. Caution: Always measure your grate diameter before ordering to ensure a proper fit.
Heavy Cast Iron Griddle for Weber 18″ Kettle
- Fits Weber 18″ Kettle and related 18″ models, including Bar-B-Kettle and Smokey Mountain Cooker Smokers.
- Dimensions near 17.5″ round; includes simple cleanup guidance to protect the surface.
- Recommended utensils: silicone, nylon, or wooden to avoid scratching the surface.
Best for: Owners of Weber 18″ kettles and similar round grills seeking a robust, heat-retaining surface. Caution: Slightly under 18″ circumference means verify exact grate diameter for a perfect seal.
Heavy Cast Iron Cooking Griddle for BGE Large
- Fits Big Green Egg Large, Kamado Joe Classic 18″, and Vision Grill VGKSS-CC2 family.
- Also compatible with Stand-Alone Classic 18″ grills, Jumbo Joe, and Smokey Mountain Cooker 18″.
- Cleaning and maintenance: wash with warm soapy water before first use, lightly oil before each cook, and store dry.
Best for: Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe users needing a compatible 18″ griddle insert that complements a classic egg-style setup. Caution: Data lists a broad compatibility; confirm exact model fit for non-standard 18″ setups.
Monument 4-Burner Griddle Insert
- Full-size griddle insert for Monument 4-Burner grills; carbon steel surface with PFOA-free nonstick coating.
- Compatibility emphasized for Monument 24367, 24633, 13892, 17842, 35633, 41847NG D405 D425 models.
- Useful for replacing or upgrading existing inserts on compatible Monument grills.
Best for: Monument grill owners seeking a direct-fit insert to expand cooking versatility. Caution: Specific Monument model compatibility should be verified before purchase.
Portable Campfire 18″ Cast Iron Griddle
- Heavy-duty, heat-retaining cast iron with a slightly concave cooking surface.
- Three removable legs for stability and portability; double ear handles for easy carrying.
- Designed for outdoor cooking, camping, and portable campfire setups.
Best for: Campers and outdoor cooks who need a portable, sturdy 18″ griddle that can be set on a campfire or portable grill. Caution: Heavier than typical pans; plan for storage and transport.
Buying Guide
What should you check before buying?
Fit and compatibility: Ensure the 18″ round griddle matches your grill’s grate diameter and model. Look for explicit compatibility lists or measure your grate.
Material and heat retention: Cast iron provides even heating and excellent heat retention. Consider pre-seasoned options for faster use.
Construction and durability: Thicker walls and a well-finished cooking surface extend lifespan and minimize warping with high heat.
Maintenance and care: Most griddles require hand washing, drying, and light oiling after use to prevent rust. For models with removable legs, check assembly ease.
Surface features: A slightly concave surface helps contain fats and juices; consider nonstick coatings only if specified as PFOA-free for safety.
Weight and portability: Portable camping griddles add weight to gear lists. If you travel, consider detachable legs and compact storage.
Comparison tips
- Best for broad grill compatibility: Pick a model labeled for Weber, Kamado Joe, Big Green Egg, and other 18″ rounds.
- Best for fixed setups: Choose inserts designed for specific grill lines (e.g., Monument or BGE Large) to minimize fit issues.
- Best for camping: Opt for portable designs with removable legs and a compact footprint.
Maintenance do’s and don’ts
- Do wash with warm, soapy water before first use, then dry thoroughly.
- Do lightly oil the surface before each use to prevent sticking.
- Do store in a dry place to avoid rust; avoid leaving the surface wet.
- Avoid metal scrapers that can gouge the seasoned surface; use nonmetal utensils when possible.
FAQ
- Q: Will these griddles fit my specific 18″ charcoal grill? A: Check the listed compatibility and measure your grate diameter to confirm fit.
- Q: Is seasoning required, and how often? A: Life-long seasoning helps prevent sticking; re-season after heavy cleaning or rust exposure.
- Q: Are these suitable for gas grills? A: Some are designed for round charcoal grills, but check product details for gas-grill compatibility before use.
- Q: Can I use metal utensils on these griddles? A: It’s best to use silicone, nylon, or wooden utensils to minimize scratching.
- Q: Do these have nonstick coatings? A: Some listings mention nonstick surfaces; verify coating materials and safety information in the product description.
- Q: How should I clean after cooking? A: Wipe with a soft sponge and mild soap when warm, then dry and oil lightly before storing.