Best Kamado Joe Grill Grates: 2 Models Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This guide compares the 2 best kamado joe grill grates available for your outdoor kitchen. We reviewed two models from Kamado Joe, focusing on cast iron and stainless steel options. The top pick is the Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle, chosen for its versatile breakfast and searing capabilities on Kamado grills. Our selections are based strictly on the specifications published on the product listings. You will find details on size, material, and weight for each item. This approach ensures you choose the right grate for your specific cooking needs without guesswork.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Best overall | Versatile breakfast and searing on Kamado grills | Check price of Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle on Amazon |
| 2 | Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander Best budget | indirect cooking on Classic Joe grills | Check price of Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander on Amazon |
Our 2 picks
Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle
Best for: Versatile breakfast and searing on Kamado grills
- Compatible Grill
- Kamado Joe Classic, Large Big Green Egg
- Material
- Cast iron
- Dimensions
- 8.98 x 0.94 x 18.3 in
- Grate Type
- Griddle
- Shape
- Half-Moon
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
View on Amazon: Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Affiliate link
This half-moon cast iron griddle adds a flat cooking surface to your Kamado Joe or compatible 18-inch grill. It features a reversible design with a smooth side for eggs and a ribbed side for steaks. The heavy cast iron construction retains heat well. It weighs 7 pounds and fits the Divide & Conquer system. You get two cooking options in one durable piece of equipment.
Pros
- Reversible design with smooth and ribbed surfaces
- Cast iron material for excellent heat retention
- Compatible with Kamado Joe Classic and Large Big Green Egg
- Fits Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System
Cons
- Half-moon shape limits total cooking area
- 7-pound weight makes it heavy to handle
- Requires manual flipping to change surface type
Good fit if
- You want to cook breakfast items like pancakes
- You need a ribbed surface for searing steaks
- You own a Kamado Joe Classic or Large Big Green Egg
Skip if
- You prefer a full circular cooking surface
- You want a lightweight stainless steel option
- You do not have an 18-inch compatible grill
Verdict: Kamado Joe Reversible Cast Iron Griddle provides two distinct cooking surfaces in one heavy-duty unit. It is the right choice for grillers who want to expand their menu beyond standard grilling without changing their main appliance.
Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander
Best for: indirect cooking on Classic Joe grills
- Compatible Grill
- Kamado Joe Classic I, II, III
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Dimensions
- 15.5 x 13 x 4 in
- Grate Type
- Grill grate expander
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
View on Amazon: Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander Affiliate link
This Kamado Joe accessory is a stainless steel grill grate expander designed to add indirect cooking space. It measures 15.5 by 13 by 4 inches and weighs 3.4 pounds. The unit sits directly on your grill using slotted feet for stability. It is compatible with Kamado Joe Classic I, II, and III models. You use it to elevate vegetables and delicate meats away from direct heat.
Pros
- Constructed from durable stainless steel
- Sits directly on the grill with slotted feet
- Compatible with Classic I, II, and III models
- Elevates food away from direct fire
Cons
- Only expands cooking space rather than replacing the main grate
- Limited to specific Kamado Joe Classic series models
- Adds only one level of indirect cooking height
Good fit if
- You own a Kamado Joe Classic I, II, or III
- You need to cook delicate meats without charring
- You want to roast vegetables indirectly
Skip if
- You cook with a charcoal grill that is not a Kamado Joe Classic series
- You prefer a full grate replacement over an expander
- You need a griddle surface for flat-top cooking
Verdict: Kamado Joe Stainless Steel Grill Grate Expander provides stable, elevated cooking space for Classic series owners. It is the right tool for you if you need to roast vegetables or cook delicate meats away from direct heat.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle | Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander |
|---|---|---|
| Compatible Grill | Kamado Joe Classic, Large Big Green Egg | Kamado Joe Classic I, II, III |
| Material | Cast iron | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 8.98 x 0.94 x 18.3 in | 15.5 x 13 x 4 in |
| Grate Type | Griddle | Grill grate expander |
| Shape | Half-Moon | not stated |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Style | Kamado | Kamado |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle, Smoker | Smoker |
| Weight | 7 pounds | 3.4 pounds |
| Size | classic | Medium, 18-inch |
| Color | Black | Stainless Steel |
| Model | KJ-HCIGRIDDLE | KJ-SCS |
Kamado Joe Grill Grate Options
Kamado Joe offers two distinct grate solutions for your charcoal smoker. The Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle provides a heavy-duty surface for searing and breakfast items. Weighing seven pounds, this black unit fits standard Kamado grills. It is ideal if you want to expand your cooking menu without changing appliances.
The 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander creates elevated indirect cooking space. At 3.4 pounds, this stainless steel accessory sits above the main grate. It suits shoppers who need to roast vegetables or cook delicate meats away from direct heat. Choose cast iron for direct searing or stainless steel for indirect roasting.
Where Kamado Joe Fits
This brand serves Kamado owners seeking specific grate solutions rather than complete grill systems. The range spans from a compact, seven-pound cast iron griddle to a larger stainless steel expander. You can choose between durable cast iron for direct searing or elevated stainless steel for indirect roasting. Neither product is a full cooking surface; they are accessories that modify existing charcoal grills. You will not find electric, gas, or portable camping options in this lineup. If you need a standalone oven or a lightweight travel grate, these models do not apply. This brand is for users who already own a Kamado and want to expand its versatility.
How to choose the right grate
-
Check material durability
You must decide between cast iron and stainless steel based on your cooking habits. Cast iron, like the seven-pound Classic Griddle, retains heat exceptionally well for searing. Stainless steel, such as the 18-inch Expander, resists rust and is lighter at 3.4 pounds. Choose cast iron for high-heat tasks like breakfast items. Select stainless steel if you prefer easy cleanup and indirect cooking. Both materials are heavy-duty, but their heat properties differ significantly for your specific needs.
-
Measure your grill space
Dimensions determine whether the grate fits your Kamado Joe model. The Classic Reversible Griddle measures 18.3 inches in length and 8.98 inches in width. The Stainless Steel Expander is slightly longer at 15.5 inches but wider at 13 inches. You must verify these measurements against your grill’s interior. A poor fit can cause stability issues or block airflow. Ensure the height and width clear your cooking chamber without touching the walls. Proper sizing ensures even heat distribution and safe operation during long cooks.
-
Match the application
Select a grate based on what you plan to cook. The Classic Reversible Griddle is designed for versatile breakfast items and searing steaks. Its flat surface handles pancakes and eggs equally well. The Stainless Steel Expander creates elevated space for indirect cooking. This setup is ideal for roasting vegetables or smoking delicate meats away from direct flames. If you want to expand your menu beyond standard grilling, the griddle offers immediate versatility. For indirect heat management, the expander provides the necessary elevation and stability.
-
Consider weight and handling
Weight affects how easily you can install and remove the grate. The Classic Reversible Griddle weighs seven pounds, requiring two hands for safe handling. The Stainless Steel Expander is lighter at 3.4 pounds, making it easier to position. You should consider your physical comfort when adjusting grates during cooking. Heavier units stay stable but are harder to lift. Lighter units are convenient but may shift if not secured properly. Choose the weight that matches your strength and frequency of use for a safer outdoor cooking experience.
-
Verify compatibility
Ensure the grate works with your specific Kamado Joe model. Both items are designed for Kamado-style charcoal grills. The Classic Reversible Griddle fits standard griddle setups. The Stainless Steel Expander is tailored for Classic Joe series owners. You must check the model number, such as KJ-HCIGRIDDLE or KJ-SCS, to confirm fitment. Using an incompatible grate can damage your appliance or create unsafe cooking conditions. Always cross-reference the manufacturer’s compatibility list before purchasing. This step prevents wasted money and ensures your new grate integrates seamlessly with your existing setup.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kamado Joe grate is best for searing steaks?
The Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle is the top choice for searing. Its heavy cast iron construction retains heat exceptionally well, allowing for a strong crust on meats. This seven-pound unit provides a solid, flat surface that handles high temperatures better than standard wire grates, making it ideal for breakfast items or quick sears.
Can I use the griddle for indirect cooking?
Yes, but the Stainless Steel Grate Expander is better suited for that specific task. The expander provides elevated, stable cooking space away from direct heat, which is perfect for roasting vegetables or cooking delicate meats. The griddle is designed primarily for direct contact cooking and searing rather than indirect heat applications.
What material is the best overall grate?
Cast iron is the best overall material for durability and heat retention. The top-rated model uses cast iron to provide two distinct cooking surfaces in one unit. It is heavy and sturdy, weighing seven pounds, which helps maintain consistent temperatures. Stainless steel is an alternative if you prefer rust resistance over heat retention.
How heavy is the cast iron griddle?
The Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle weighs seven pounds. This substantial weight helps it hold heat effectively during cooking. The dimensions are 18.3 inches in length and 8.98 inches in width, with a thickness of 0.94 inches, providing a robust surface for various cooking styles.
What are the dimensions of the stainless steel expander?
The Stainless Steel Grate Expander measures 15.5 inches in length and 13 inches in width. It stands four inches high and weighs 3.4 pounds. This size makes it a suitable add-on for Classic series owners who need extra space for indirect cooking without taking up the entire grill surface.
Is the stainless steel grate compatible with all Kamado grills?
The Stainless Steel Grate Expander is designed specifically for Classic series owners. It provides stable, elevated cooking space for those models. You should check your specific grill model to ensure compatibility, as it is not a universal fit for every Kamado Joe appliance on the market.
Does the griddle come in different colors?
The Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle is available in black. This color is typical for cast iron cookware and helps with heat absorption. The stainless steel expander, in contrast, retains its natural metallic finish. Both options are designed to blend with standard outdoor cooking equipment aesthetics.