The right tools don’t just make grilling easier—they make it better. A successful outdoor kitchen is built on a foundation of reliable, innovative accessories that handle everything from precise temperature control to post-feast cleanup. This season, step up your game and spend less time fussing and more time enjoying the company of your guests.
We’ve compiled a list of essential gear designed to enhance your grilling experience. From high-tech gadgets that automate the tedious tasks to classic, durable tools that no pit master should be without, these nine accessories are key to a smooth and great grilling season.
Essential Gear for Your Best Grilling Season Yet
- Grillbot Automatic Grill Cleaning Robot
- The Ove Glove Heat & Flame Protection
- ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Meat Thermometer
- OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs
- Char-Broil Performance Grill Cover
- MEATER SE Smart Bluetooth Meat Thermometer
- KIZEN Instant Read Meat Thermometer
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
- Kona 360 Premium Grill Brush
Grillbot Automatic Grill Cleaning Robot
Cleaning the grill is often the least enjoyable part of a barbecue. The Grillbot changes that by automating the entire process. As the world’s first automatic BBQ grill cleaner, it uses three spinning nylon brushes to tackle stubborn grease, grime, and char without any manual effort from you.
Simply place it on a cool grill, press a button, and let it work. This hands-free tool provides a thorough clean, helping you maintain a healthier cooking surface. Its unique design and practical function also make it a standout gift for any grilling enthusiast.
The Ove Glove Heat & Flame Protection
Serious heat protection is non-negotiable at the grill. The Ove Glove offers superior safety, constructed from the same heat and flame-resistant material used by firefighters. It can withstand extreme temperatures up to 540 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you confidence when handling hot grates, pans, or lids.
Unlike bulky oven mitts, this glove provides full five-finger flexibility for a secure grip. The silicone non-slip surface helps prevent dropping precious food, and its ambidextrous, machine-washable design makes it a practical and durable addition to your kitchen toolkit.
ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Meat Thermometer
Forget constantly checking on your food. The ThermoPro TP20 wireless thermometer allows you to monitor cooking temperatures from up to 500 feet away using reliable radio frequency technology. This range is ideal for relaxing indoors while your smoker or grill works outside.
It features a simple setup with no app or Bluetooth pairing required. The receiver unit clearly displays both food and ambient oven temperatures simultaneously and includes a handy kitchen timer with count-up and countdown functions, making long cooks much simpler to manage.
OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs
A great pair of tongs is an extension of the griller’s hand. The OXO Good Grips 16-inch tongs provide the perfect length to keep your hands safely away from the heat while offering confident control. They are ideal for turning large steaks, roasts, or even tossing vegetables on the grill.
Built with the brand’s signature comfortable, non-slip handles, these tongs are versatile for many cooking tasks. When you’re finished, they lock closed for neat and convenient storage in a drawer or hanging on a hook.
Char-Broil Performance Grill Cover
Protecting your investment from the elements is crucial for longevity. This heavy-duty grill cover from Char-Broil is designed to fit 3-4 burner gas grills and large charcoal grills up to 62 inches wide. Its durable 18mil polyester fabric provides a strong shield against rain, sun, and dust.
The cover features sealed seams for improved water resistance and a protective liner to guard against sun fade. Using a quality cover like this one will keep your grill clean and ready for use, season after season.
MEATER SE Smart Bluetooth Meat Thermometer
The MEATER SE brings smart technology to your cookout. This completely wireless probe connects to a free app on your smartphone, providing real-time updates and guided cooking instructions. It tells you not only when your food is done but also recommends rest times for optimal results.
Its dual sensors accurately measure both the internal meat temperature and the ambient temperature inside your grill or oven. With a Bluetooth range of up to 165 feet and no need for calibration, it offers a high level of convenience for tech-savvy cooks.
KIZEN Instant Read Meat Thermometer
Speed and accuracy are key when checking if your food is perfectly cooked. The KIZEN thermometer delivers a precise reading in about three seconds with an accuracy of +/- 1 degree Fahrenheit. Its thin, fold-out probe is ideal for getting a quick temperature check without losing valuable heat.
The large, backlit LED screen is easy to read in any lighting condition, day or night. This versatile tool is also IP67 waterproof and features a magnetic back for handy storage on your grill or refrigerator.
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
No outdoor kitchen is complete without the versatility of cast iron. A Lodge skillet can go directly from your stove to the grill grates, handling everything from searing steaks and burgers to baking cornbread or cooking breakfast. Its excellent heat retention and even cooking are legendary.
Coming pre-seasoned from the manufacturer, it’s ready to use right away and will only improve with time. The durability of cast iron means this is a piece of cookware that, with proper care, can last for generations.
Kona 360 Premium Grill Brush
For a powerful manual clean, the Kona 360 grill brush is a top choice. Its design often features a full 360-degree scrubbing surface, allowing you to clean grill grates from all angles with a simple back-and-forth motion. This ensures you remove debris from both the top and sides of the grates effectively.
Many models include a replaceable head, which is both economical and more sustainable than throwing away an entire brush. A sturdy, well-designed grill brush is a fundamental tool for maintaining a clean and safe cooking surface before and after each use.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in Outdoor Kitchen Accessories
Getting your outdoor kitchen ready for a great grilling season is about more than just a good grill. The right accessories make the difference between a chore and a joy. I’ve learned that focusing on a few key areas can help you build a setup that’s both functional and fun.
First, think about prep and safety. A sturdy, weather-resistant cutting board is non-negotiable. I look for one made from hardwood or a durable composite material that won’t warp in the sun or rain. Right next to it should be a reliable set of grilling tools. Skip the flimsy, store-brand tongs. Invest in long-handled, stainless steel tools with a good grip. The length keeps your hands safe from the heat, and the quality means they won’t bend or break when you’re flipping a full rack of ribs. A good instant-read thermometer is the final piece of the safety puzzle. It’s the only way to know your food is perfectly and safely cooked, every single time.
Next, consider cooking versatility. My grill’s surface area is precious, so I use it wisely. A cast iron grill pan or skillet is my secret weapon for anything that might fall through the grates—think veggies, shrimp, or even breakfast hash. A vegetable basket is another game-changer, letting you cook smaller items without chasing them around with a spatula. For low-and-slow cooking, a quality smoker box is a must-have accessory for a great grilling season if you want to add wood-fired flavor without a dedicated smoker.
Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches. Organization is key outdoors. I use a heavy-duty side table or cart with shelves to keep my tools, spices, and plates within arm’s reach, so I’m not running back and forth to the house. For serving, a set of durable, outdoor-safe plates and platters that can handle the heat of freshly grilled food makes everything easier. By focusing on these categories—prep/safety, cooking versatility, and organization—you’ll choose accessories that you’ll actually use and love for seasons to come.
FAQ
What is the one accessory I shouldn’t grill without?
If I had to pick just one, it would be a high-quality instant-read meat thermometer. It takes all the guesswork out of grilling, ensuring your food is cooked to the perfect temperature for both safety and taste. No more cutting into a beautiful steak to check if it’s done!
Are expensive grilling tools worth the investment?
Generally, yes. Inexpensive tools often have shorter handles, weaker grips, and are made from materials that can bend or melt. A good set of stainless steel tools with long, heat-resistant handles will last for years, perform better, and give you much more control and safety at the grill.
How do I protect my outdoor kitchen accessories from the weather?
I use a simple two-step system. First, buy accessories made for outdoor use—look for materials like stainless steel, cedar, or powder-coated metals. Second, invest in a sturdy storage bin or a grill cover with side pockets. Storing your smaller tools and gadgets when not in use dramatically extends their life.
Do I need special plates and platters for outdoor dining?
It’s a really good idea. Regular ceramic or glass plates can get very hot if you put sizzling food directly on them, and they are prone to chipping or breaking outdoors. Melamine or enamelware plates are lightweight, durable, and won’t transfer heat, making them much safer and more practical.
What’s the best way to add smoky flavor on a gas grill?
The easiest method is to use a smoker box. You fill a metal box with wood chips (soaked or dry, depending on the design) and place it directly over the heat source on your gas grill. As it heats, it produces smoke that flavors your food. It’s a simple and effective accessory for a great grilling season.