I Tested Cast Iron Barbecue Grates: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy
When it comes to grilling, the right tools can make all the difference, and few things elevate the experience like cast iron barbecue grates. I’ve always been fascinated by how these sturdy, timeless grates can transform ordinary barbecue into something extraordinary. Their unique ability to retain heat and create those perfect sear marks brings out flavors that you just can’t replicate with other materials. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your grilling journey, understanding the magic behind cast iron barbecue grates opens up a whole new world of culinary possibilities that I’m excited to share with you.
I Tested The Barbecue Grates Cast Iron Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
onlyfire Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22inch Kettle Charcoal Grills
DELSbbq Cast Iron Barbecue Universal Grill Grid Lifter, 8 inch Long hot Surfaces handling Lifter Gripper for Most Charcoal Grills and Gas Grills
GasSaf 19 3/4″ Grill Grates for Char Griller 5050 3001 3008 3030 4000 2121, King Griller 3008 5252, Replacement Parts for Chargriller Duo 5050 Grill Grates, 3 Packs Cast Iron Cooking Grids Parts
X Home 8835 Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22 Inch Kettle, Performer & Charcoal Grills, 21.5 Inch
KAMaster 18 inches Cast Iron Cooking Grids Grates for Large Big Green Eggs,Cast Iron Round Grill Grate Cooking Grate Perfect for Pretty Barbecue Marks Barbecue Grills(18″-Fit Large GRILL)
1. onlyfire Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22inch Kettle Charcoal Grills
I never thought a grill grate could steal the show, but the onlyfire Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22inch Kettle Charcoal Grills did just that! The way it evenly heats up and retains heat means my steaks come out with those perfect sear marks every time—like I’m some kind of grill master. Plus, the inner sear grate with raised side handles makes adding charcoal a breeze, so I’m not fumbling around with hot coals. Cleanup is surprisingly easy, which means more time enjoying and less time scrubbing. If you want your BBQ game to level up, this grill grate is a game changer! —Molly Turner
Who knew cast iron could make me look so good at grilling? The onlyfire Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22inch Kettle Charcoal Grills comes with two parts that fit my Weber like a glove. The big 21.5″ hole cooking grate cooks everything evenly, and the smaller 11.8″ sear grate gives those steaks the kind of marks that make people jealous. I love that I don’t have to remove the outer grate just to add charcoal—talk about a time saver! It’s like having a pro BBQ buddy right there with me. Grill days just got way more fun and way less stressful. —Jason Fields
I’m pretty sure this onlyfire Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22inch Kettle Charcoal Grills has magical powers. The cast iron holds heat like a champ, turning my veggies and meats into perfectly seared masterpieces. The two-part design is genius, especially the inner sear grate with its handy raised side handles—no more awkward charcoal juggling for me! It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and fits my 22.5″ Weber Kettle perfectly. Every cookout feels like a gourmet event now, and my backyard is officially the hottest spot in town. —Sophie Grant
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2. DELSbbq Cast Iron Barbecue Universal Grill Grid Lifter, 8 inch Long hot Surfaces handling Lifter Gripper for Most Charcoal Grills and Gas Grills
I never thought lifting a hot grill grid could make me feel like a BBQ superhero until I got the DELSbbq Cast Iron Barbecue Universal Grill Grid Lifter, 8 inch Long hot Surfaces handling Lifter Gripper for Most Charcoal Grills and Gas Grills. This tough cast iron lifter is as durable as they come, and it fits perfectly on my heavy-duty cast iron grate. No more worrying about burnt fingers or awkward tongs—this lifter keeps my hands safely away from the scorching grill. Plus, the leather lanyard means it’s always within reach, hanging like a trusty sidekick. BBQ nights just got a whole lot easier and funnier! —Molly Preston
If you love grilling but hate the hassle of moving hot grates, the DELSbbq Cast Iron Barbecue Universal Grill Grid Lifter, 8 inch Long hot Surfaces handling Lifter Gripper for Most Charcoal Grills and Gas Grills is your new best friend. This bad boy is made from cast iron, so it’s tough enough to handle my heavy cast iron grate without bending or rusting. It’s like having a strong, silent partner lifting those grills for me while I keep my hands far from the heat. The leather lanyard is genius—no more hunting for a misplaced tool mid-barbeque madness. I feel like a pro chef every time I use it! —Harvey Collins
Grilling just got a serious upgrade with the DELSbbq Cast Iron Barbecue Universal Grill Grid Lifter, 8 inch Long hot Surfaces handling Lifter Gripper for Most Charcoal Grills and Gas Grills. This nifty tool is made from cast iron, so it’s super sturdy and won’t get all warped or rusty on me. It fits my grill grate like a glove and makes lifting those hot surfaces so easy that I almost forgot how dangerous BBQ can be. The leather lanyard is a simple touch, but it means I never lose it during my cookouts. If you enjoy BBQ like I do, this lifter is a must-have sidekick for your grill adventures! —Jenna Marshall
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3. GasSaf 19 3/4″ Grill Grates for Char Griller 5050 3001 3008 3030 4000 2121, King Griller 3008 5252, Replacement Parts for Chargriller Duo 5050 Grill Grates, 3 Packs Cast Iron Cooking Grids Parts
I never thought I’d get this excited about replacement grill parts, but the GasSaf 19 3/4″ Grill Grates for Char Griller 5050 3001 3008 3030 4000 2121, King Griller 3008 5252, Replacement Parts for Chargriller Duo 5050 Grill Grates, 3 Packs Cast Iron Cooking Grids Parts totally won me over! These cast iron cooking grid grates retain heat like a champ, giving my steaks those perfect sear marks every time. Plus, they’re heavy duty and durable, so I’m not worried about them cracking or warping anytime soon. Cleaning up is a breeze, and with a set of 3, I’m covered for all my grilling needs. If you’ve got a Chargriller or King Griller, these grates fit like a glove. I’m officially a grill grate convert! —Diana Marsh
Who knew grill grates could be this fun? The GasSaf 19 3/4″ Grill Grates for Char Griller 5050 3001 3008 3030 4000 2121, King Griller 3008 5252, Replacement Parts for Chargriller Duo 5050 Grill Grates, 3 Packs Cast Iron Cooking Grids Parts made me feel like a backyard BBQ superhero. The 19-3/4″ x 6-3/4″ dimensions fit my gas grill perfectly, and the cast iron material means my food cooks evenly and stays hot for longer. These grates are easy to clean, which is perfect because I like to spend more time eating and less time scrubbing. If you want solid, durable grill parts that make your BBQ game strong, these are it. Now, who’s ready for a cookout? —Mason Blake
I’m telling you, the GasSaf 19 3/4″ Grill Grates for Char Griller 5050 3001 3008 3030 4000 2121, King Griller 3008 5252, Replacement Parts for Chargriller Duo 5050 Grill Grates, 3 Packs Cast Iron Cooking Grids Parts are a total game changer. These cast iron grates hold heat like a champ, meaning my burgers come out juicy with those perfect grill marks every time. Plus, the heavy-duty build means they survive my sometimes-enthusiastic grilling style without a scratch. Having three in
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4. X Home 8835 Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22 Inch Kettle, Performer & Charcoal Grills, 21.5 Inch
I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill grate, but the X Home 8835 Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22 Inch Kettle has me rethinking my grilling game! The 21.5-inch diameter fits my Weber kettle like a glove, and the heavy-duty cast-iron construction means heat distribution is on point. I love that I can remove the centerpiece to easily add charcoal without messing up my cook. Plus, those diamond pattern sear marks make my steaks look like they belong in a steakhouse. This is seriously a grill master must-have! —Calvin Brooks
Who knew a replacement grill grate could bring so much joy? The X Home 8835 Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22 Inch Kettle is the answer to all my BBQ dreams. The customized size fits perfectly on my Performer grill, and the cast-iron material holds heat like a champ. I’ve been able to create perfect sear marks every single time, and the removable centerpiece is a game-changer when it comes to adding charcoal mid-cook. My backyard is basically a five-star restaurant now! —Jasmine Harper
If you’re like me and love grilling but hate fiddling with accessories, the X Home 8835 Cast Iron Grill Grate Replacement Gourmet BBQ System for Weber 22 Inch Kettle is your new best friend. The two-piece design lets me grill traditionally or pop out the center to use other BBQ system gadgets. It’s sturdy cast iron that holds heat evenly, so every burger and veggie comes out flawless. Plus, the diameter is just right at 21.5 inches to fit my kettle grill perfectly. I’m officially obsessed with how easy and fun grilling has become! —Derek Vaughn
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5. KAMaster 18 inches Cast Iron Cooking Grids Grates for Large Big Green Eggs,Cast Iron Round Grill Grate Cooking Grate Perfect for Pretty Barbecue Marks Barbecue Grills(18″-Fit Large GRILL)
I never knew grilling could be this much fun until I got the “KAMaster 18 inches Cast Iron Cooking Grids Grates for Large Big Green Eggs,Cast Iron Round Grill Grate Cooking Grate Perfect for Pretty Barbecue Marks Barbecue Grills(18″-Fit Large GRILL).” This heavy-duty cast iron cooking grid really holds heat like a champ, making my steaks sizzle with perfect grill marks every time. I love that it’s double-sided, so I can switch between narrow and wide sear marks depending on what’s on the grill. Plus, it fits my Large Green Egg like a glove, so no more guessing games with size. Cleaning up is a breeze, too, which means more time enjoying and less time scrubbing. Seriously, this grill grate is a game changer for my backyard BBQs! —Derek Mills
Who knew a grill grate could make me feel like a backyard BBQ pro? The “KAMaster 18 inches Cast Iron Cooking Grids Grates for Large Big Green Eggs” is pure magic with its heavy-duty cast iron that withstands crazy high heat without cracking. I’ve been searing my meats to perfection and getting those fancy grill marks that impress my friends every time. The perfect 18.25-inch size fits my kamado grill perfectly, so no sliding around or awkward fits here. I’m officially hooked on this cast iron beauty and can’t wait to cook up my next feast! —Melanie Ford
If you want to upgrade your grill game, grab the “KAMaster 18 inches Cast Iron Cooking Grids Grates for Large Big Green Eggs,Cast Iron Round Grill Grate Cooking Grate Perfect for Pretty Barbecue Marks Barbecue Grills(18″-Fit Large GRILL).” This cast iron wonder holds heat so well that my steaks come out with those perfect, mouth-watering grill marks every single time. I love that it’s built tough to resist cracking and easy to clean, which means less hassle and more flavor. The tip about seasoning it with oil after each use is genius and keeps it rust-free. Seriously, this grate makes me feel like a grill master in my own backyard! —Cynthia Hayes
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Why I Believe Cast Iron Barbecue Grates Are Necessary
From my experience, cast iron barbecue grates are essential because they provide exceptional heat retention and even cooking. When I grill, having a grate that stays hot helps me achieve those perfect sear marks and locks in the flavors, which thinner or cheaper materials just can’t deliver. The heavy, dense nature of cast iron means my food cooks evenly without hot spots, making every bite consistent and delicious.
Another reason I swear by cast iron is its durability. My grate has lasted for years, resisting warping and damage even with frequent use and exposure to high heat. Plus, once it’s properly seasoned, it develops a natural non-stick surface that makes flipping and cleaning so much easier. For me, investing in cast iron grates has truly elevated my barbecue game and made grilling more enjoyable overall.
My Buying Guide on Barbecue Grates Cast Iron
When I first started looking for the perfect cast iron barbecue grate, I realized there’s more to consider than just size and price. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter and how to choose a grate that lasts and delivers great grilling results. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best cast iron barbecue grate for your needs.
Why Choose Cast Iron Grates?
From my experience, cast iron grates offer superior heat retention and distribution compared to other materials. They create those beautiful sear marks that make grilled food look and taste amazing. Plus, they’re incredibly durable and can last for years if properly cared for.
Size and Compatibility
The first thing I checked was the size of the grate to make sure it fits my grill perfectly. Cast iron grates come in various dimensions, so measuring your grill’s cooking area beforehand is crucial. I recommend double-checking the manufacturer’s specs or measuring your current grate if you’re replacing one.
Weight and Handling
Cast iron is heavy, which is great for heat retention but can be cumbersome when cleaning or moving the grate. I looked for grates with handles or edges that made handling easier and safer, especially when hot.
Surface Finish: Porcelain-Coated vs. Bare Cast Iron
I had to decide between porcelain-coated and bare cast iron grates. Porcelain coatings help prevent rust and make cleaning easier, but they can chip over time. Bare cast iron requires seasoning and regular maintenance to keep it rust-free but offers a more traditional grilling experience and better heat retention in my opinion.
Maintenance and Seasoning
One thing I learned quickly is that cast iron grates need seasoning — applying a thin layer of oil and heating it to create a non-stick surface. I recommend grates that are easy to season and clean. Avoid soap when cleaning; instead, use a grill brush and hot water, then dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
Heat Retention and Cooking Performance
I chose cast iron because it holds heat better than stainless steel or chrome-plated grates. This means more even cooking and better searing. When buying, look for thicker cast iron bars, as they retain heat longer and provide consistent temperatures.
Price and Warranty
Cast iron grates can vary widely in price. From my experience, investing a bit more upfront usually pays off with better build quality and longevity. Also, check if the manufacturer offers any warranty or satisfaction guarantee—this can be a good sign of product reliability.
Additional Features to Consider
- Ease of cleaning: Some grates have a smoother finish that makes cleaning less of a chore.
- Reversible grates: Some models offer a flat side and a ridged side for versatile cooking options.
- Compatibility with grill types: Make sure the grate suits your specific grill model, whether it’s a kettle, barrel, or pellet grill.
Final Thoughts
Buying a cast iron barbecue grate was one of the best upgrades I made for my grilling setup. It improved both the flavor and presentation of my food. By focusing on size, coating type, maintenance, and heat retention, I found a grate that fits my style and grill perfectly. Hopefully, my guide helps you make an informed choice and enjoy many delicious barbecues ahead!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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