Charcoal vs. gas: find your kind of fire
Compare start-up time, flavor, fuel, cleaning, and the amount of hands-on attention each grill asks from you.
01 / MAKE · THE BBQ EDIT
Good things happen around the fire.
Backyard cooking should feel like an invitation, not a test. Find clear guides to grills, heat, smoke, and easy hosting—whether you are lighting your first kettle or finding a new favorite way to cook outdoors.
START WITH THE BASICS · BUYING GUIDE
Charcoal vs. gas: find your kind of fire
Charcoal rewards a slower ritual and brings a distinctive smoky character. Gas gets hot quickly and makes weeknight cooking wonderfully straightforward. The best choice is the one that fits your space, time, and favorite meals.
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COOK WITH CONFIDENCE
From first spark to final bite
Two heat zones. A whole new way to grill.
Keep one side hot for a quick sear and the other cooler for gentle finishing. It is a flexible setup that helps avoid burnt edges and undercooked centers.
A laid-back cookout, from prep to plates
Make the gathering feel effortless with a short prep list, simple sides, and a cooking area arranged so the host can enjoy the conversation too.
THE GOOD-TIME FIELD NOTES
Build a better cook around what you already have
A memorable barbecue is less about owning every accessory and more about understanding heat. Start by giving yourself enough room to work, keeping a clean plate for cooked food, and placing the tools you use most within easy reach. A reliable instant-read thermometer and a sturdy pair of tongs can be more useful than a drawer full of gadgets.
Choose a grill that fits your real routine
Think about where the grill will live, how many people you usually cook for, and what you enjoy making. A compact charcoal kettle is a flexible, approachable option for direct grilling and occasional low-and-slow cooks. A gas grill is ready quickly and offers easy burner control. Pellet cookers are designed for steady, hands-off heat and a wood-fired flavor profile. Match the equipment to your habits rather than buying for a rare once-a-year feast.
Quick start:
Preheat the grill fully, clean and lightly oil the cooking grate, and let the food tell you when it is ready to turn. A little patience protects both the crust and the cook.
Simple steps for more even cooking
- Set up a hot zone and a cooler zone so food can move away from direct flame.
- Give steaks and vegetables room on the grate; crowded food steams instead of browning.
- Close the lid when you want steady heat, and open it when you need to manage flare-ups.
- Use a clean platter for cooked food and keep raw ingredients separate.
- Brush the grate after cooking and allow the barbecue to cool before covering it.
Make room for the good part
For an easy gathering, choose one main dish that can be cooked without constant attention, prepare sides ahead, and set out water and serving plates before lighting the grill. The best cookout gives you time to step away from the heat and enjoy the people around the table.