Holding the Weber Spirit E-210 Gas Grill in my hands, I was struck by its sturdy, cast-aluminum body—feeling solid yet lightweight enough to move easily. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates cooled my palms with their textured, durable surface. When I ignited it with a single twist, the Snap-Jet ignition fired instantly, perfect for quick setups before slow smoking or indirect cooking. Its even heat distribution across the grates ensures your food cooks uniformly, which is key for indirect methods.
Compared to the Grills House combo, which offers charcoal and smoker versatility, or the R.W.FLAME’s portable design, the Weber’s precise temperature control and high-quality materials really stand out. It’s built to last outdoors, with a grease management system that genuinely simplifies cleanup. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Weber Spirit E-210 Gas Grill for those serious about indirect cooking—reliable, durable, and designed for flavor and ease of use.
Top Recommendation: Weber Spirit E-210 Gas Grill, 2-Burner, Black
Why We Recommend It: The Weber Spirit E-210 excels in even heat distribution, thanks to its porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates and precise burner control, making it ideal for indirect cooking. Its durable, all-weather construction and grease management system set it apart, providing long-term convenience and consistent results. While the combo offers versatility and the portable R.W.FLAME is lightweight, the Weber’s combination of build quality, consistent performance, and thoughtful features make it the best choice for serious indirect grilling.
Best gas grills for indirect cooking: Our Top 4 Picks
- Weber Spirit E-210 Gas Grill, 2-Burner, Black – Best Value
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best Premium Option
- R.W.FLAME G20B Propane Gas Grill 2-Burner, 16000 BTU – Best for Beginners
- Char-Broil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology – Best for Searing Steaks
Weber Spirit E-210 Gas Grill, 2-Burner, Black
- ✓ Durable, weather-resistant build
- ✓ Even, consistent heat
- ✓ Easy cleanup features
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited color options
| Number of Burners | 2 |
| Grill Material | Porcelain-enameled cast-iron |
| Cooking Area | Approximately 360 square inches (main grates and warming rack combined) |
| Ignition System | Snap-Jet electronic ignition for each burner |
| Fuel Type | Propane (liquid petroleum gas) |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty on the cook box and burners |
Unlike many gas grills that feel a bit flimsy or overly complicated, the Weber Spirit E-210 immediately impresses with its sturdy cast-aluminum construction. You’ll notice how it feels solid and weather-resistant right out of the box, which is a big plus for outdoor use.
The moment you fire it up, the Snap-Jet ignition makes lighting each burner effortless—one press, and you’re good to go. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates heat up quickly and cook food evenly, which really shows during indirect cooking or when you want those perfect, tender results without burning the exterior.
The Flavorizer Bars catch juices and vaporize them to boost flavor, and the grease management system makes cleanup much easier. I especially like the pull-out tray and large drip pan; no more messy grease spills or tedious scrubbing after a cookout.
The side tables are sturdy, scratch-resistant, and provide ample space for prep or holding utensils. The built-in hooks and compatibility with Weber Works accessories add a custom feel, making it easy to keep tools within reach without cluttering the work area.
Warming racks, which are often overlooked, are perfect for toasting buns or keeping sides warm. Plus, the cabinet hides the propane tank neatly, giving the whole setup a clean, streamlined look.
In terms of performance, this grill heats quickly and maintains steady temperatures, perfect for indirect cooking. It’s a reliable, durable choice for anyone serious about grilling without fuss or worry about the weather.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Dual fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to ignite
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| BTU Power | 34,000 BTU total (2 main burners at 12,000 BTU each, side burner at 10,000 BTU) |
| Charcoal Capacity | Max 3.3 lb. for charcoal grill, 1.5 lb. for offset smoker |
I’ve had my eye on the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill for a while, especially because of its intriguing dual-fuel setup. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could deliver both the smoky richness of charcoal and the convenience of gas grilling in one tidy package.
The first thing that caught my attention was the size—over 1,000 square inches of cooking space, enough to handle a large family feast or a weekend barbecue with friends. The dual zones mean I can sear steaks on the gas side and slow-smoke ribs on the offset smoker without any fuss.
The smoker’s side door makes adding charcoal or removing ashes simple, which is a big plus during long cooks.
The heat output is impressive, with 34,000 BTU packed into two main stainless steel burners plus a powerful side burner. The piezo ignition fires up quickly, so no fumbling with matches.
I loved the adjustable charcoal pan—being able to set it to different levels really helps dial in the temperature for various cooking styles, from slow-smoking to high-heat searing.
Using the offset smoker as either a traditional smoker or extra charcoal grill gives me flexibility I didn’t expect. The 3.3 lb charcoal capacity in the main grill and 1.5 lb in the smoker are enough for multiple rounds of smoking or grilling.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful grill that helps you master indirect cooking with ease.
R.W.FLAME G20B Propane Gas Grill 2-Burner, 16000 BTU
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Propane tank sold separately
- ✕ Smaller cooking area
| Burner Power | 16,000 BTU total |
| Material | 304 stainless steel |
| Cooking Surface Dimensions | 42.91″ x 39.37″ |
| Grate Material | Cast iron |
| Weight | 45.23 pounds |
| Dimensions | 42.91″ x 39.37″ x 20.05″ |
The moment I fired up the R.W.FLAME G20B, I was immediately impressed by how evenly it heats thanks to its sturdy cast iron grates. They retain heat beautifully, making it ideal for indirect cooking or slow smoking, without hot spots ruining your delicate dishes.
The stainless steel body feels solid and durable, with handles that stay cool even after extended use. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just over 45 pounds, so moving it around your outdoor space is straightforward.
The side racks and storage baskets are handy for keeping utensils and ingredients within arm’s reach, transforming this into a mini outdoor kitchen.
The 16,000 BTU total power means it heats up quickly, and the temperature gauge helps you keep precise control. Plus, the removable grease drip box and residue collector make cleanup a breeze—no more greasy messes lingering after cooking.
The propane connection requires a separate tank, but that’s standard and easy to manage.
What really stood out was how versatile this grill is. Whether searing steaks, grilling burgers, or slow-smoking chicken, it handled everything with ease.
The built-in bottle opener and hooks add a touch of convenience, making it feel like a true backyard pro setup.
Of course, being a smaller two-burner grill, it’s not designed for massive gatherings. But for intimate cookouts, it packs a punch.
It’s also quite compact, fitting well on a patio or balcony without taking over your space.
Overall, this grill offers impressive build quality and thoughtful features. It’s a smart choice for those who want reliable, indirect cooking with a professional edge.
Char-Broil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology
- ✓ Fast heat-up and recovery
- ✓ Versatile modular system
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✕ Charcoal tray sold separately
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Cooking Technology | Amplifire infrared cooking system for juicier food and flare-up prevention |
| Primary Cooking Area | 535 square inches |
| Secondary Cooking Area (Warming Rack) | 155 square inches |
| BTU Rating | 32,000 BTU |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron grates |
| Additional Features | Modular cooking system with griddle and optional Gas2Coal charcoal tray |
The moment I fired up the Char-Broil Pro Series Amplifire Infrared Technology grill, I was blown away by how quickly it reached 500°F—under 10 minutes, no fuss. That rapid heat-up means I can get grilling faster, whether it’s a weekday dinner or weekend BBQ with friends.
The standout feature for me is the Amplifire cooking system. It really does deliver juicier, more flavorful food every time.
No flare-ups, no guesswork—just consistent results, even if you’re not a seasoned grill master. Plus, the even heat distribution across the porcelain-coated cast-iron grates ensures those perfect grill marks without burning your food.
The modular design is another win. Swapping from classic grilling to griddling takes less than two minutes, which is perfect for variety.
The heavy-duty 328-square-inch griddle adds a new dimension—think breakfast, stir-fries, or searing veggies—without needing another appliance.
The primary cooking area is generous, fitting up to 25 burgers or a dozen steaks at once. The warming rack is a thoughtful addition, letting you keep cooked food warm without losing heat.
And the side shelf is big enough to hold all your tools, sauces, and plates—so no more juggling while you cook.
Rolling it around is simple thanks to the sturdy 8-inch wheels, and locking casters keep it steady when you’re grilling. The gas-powered heat is consistent, and the optional Gas2Coal tray (sold separately) gives you charcoal flavor without sacrificing convenience.
Overall, this grill feels like a versatile powerhouse—perfect for serious grilling, indirect cooking, or experimenting with different styles. It’s well-built, easy to use, and delivers great results quickly.
Just be mindful that the charcoal tray isn’t included, and it’s a bit of an investment.
What Is Indirect Cooking and How Can It Enhance My Grilling?
Benefits of indirect cooking include the ability to cook larger cuts of meat evenly, reducing the risk of burning the exterior while ensuring the interior reaches the desired doneness. It also permits multitasking; while one item is cooking indirectly, another can be seared or grilled directly, maximizing the efficiency of the grilling session. Moreover, indirect cooking often results in healthier meals, as excess fats can drip away from the food during the cooking process.
Best practices for successful indirect cooking on gas grills include preheating the grill, using a water pan to add moisture, and regularly checking the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer. Utilizing the best gas grills for indirect cooking, which often feature multiple burners and excellent heat distribution, can significantly enhance the cooking experience and outcomes.
What Key Features Should I Look for in a Gas Grill for Effective Indirect Cooking?
When selecting a gas grill for effective indirect cooking, several key features stand out:
-
Multi-Burner Configuration: Look for a grill with at least two burners, allowing you to create distinct heat zones. This setup facilitates direct cooking on one side while employing indirect heat on the other.
-
Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for indirect cooking. Grills equipped with built-in thermometers or multiple heat settings help maintain the desired cooking temperature over long periods.
-
Heat Distribution: A design that promotes even heat distribution—such as a firebox and diffuser plates—ensures consistent cooking results without hot spots.
-
Lid Design: A well-sealed lid retains heat and moisture, crucial for cooking large cuts of meat slowly. Features like a tight-fitting lid or vents for smoke control can enhance flavor.
-
Fuel Efficiency: A grill that uses fuel efficiently will allow for longer cooking times, which is particularly important for indirect cooking methods.
-
Cooking Area: Sufficient cooking space accommodates larger food items, making it easier to use indirect cooking techniques effectively.
By focusing on these features, you can enhance your indirect cooking experience and achieve delicious results.
How Many Burners Are Optimal for Indirect Cooking?
The optimal number of burners for indirect cooking on gas grills typically ranges from two to four, depending on the grill size and design.
- Two-burner grills: These are ideal for smaller spaces and provide sufficient heat for indirect cooking by using one burner for direct heat and the other for indirect. This setup is often sufficient for cooking smaller cuts of meat or vegetables, allowing for a good balance of heat distribution.
- Three-burner grills: With three burners, this grill configuration allows for more versatility in cooking options, enabling the user to create a designated zone for indirect cooking while still having space for direct grilling. This setup is great for larger meals or when cooking multiple items simultaneously, ensuring even cooking and moisture retention.
- Four-burner grills: These grills offer the most flexibility and are optimal for serious grillers who frequently cook larger cuts of meat, such as whole chickens or briskets. With four burners, you can set up a comprehensive indirect cooking zone while maintaining the option for direct heat, allowing for effective temperature control and searing.
- Rotisserie burners: Some advanced grills come with a dedicated rotisserie burner, which can enhance indirect cooking by providing consistent heat around a rotating piece of meat. This feature is especially useful for achieving even cooking and browning on larger roasts or poultry.
What Type of Heat Distribution Works Best for Indirect Cooking?
The main options for heat distribution that work best for indirect cooking on gas grills are:
- Two-zone cooking: This method involves creating a hot zone and a cooler zone on the grill surface.
- Heat deflector plates: These are physical barriers placed between the flame and the cooking surface to diffuse heat.
- Rotisserie burners: Some gas grills come with a dedicated burner for rotisserie cooking, allowing for even heat distribution.
- Smoker boxes: Incorporating a smoker box can enhance indirect cooking by adding flavor through smoke while maintaining controlled heat.
Two-zone cooking: This method is highly effective for indirect cooking because it allows for one side of the grill to be used for direct high heat, while the other side maintains a lower temperature. Foods that require longer cooking times, like roasts or whole chickens, can be placed on the cooler side to cook through evenly without burning.
Heat deflector plates: These plates are specifically designed to sit above the burners and reflect heat away from the direct flames, creating a more uniform temperature across the grill surface. This setup is ideal for slow-roasting meats or baking, as it simulates oven-like conditions, ensuring the food cooks evenly without exposure to direct flames.
Rotisserie burners: Many high-end gas grills come equipped with rotisserie burners, which provide consistent heat from the back of the grill. This is particularly beneficial for cooking large cuts of meat, as the rotating action helps baste the meat in its own juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish while cooking indirectly.
Smoker boxes: Adding a smoker box to your gas grill allows for the infusion of smoky flavors while still employing indirect cooking methods. By placing wood chips in the smoker box, you can create aromatic smoke that enhances the taste of foods cooked on the cooler side of the grill, making it a great complement to the indirect cooking process.
Which Gas Grill Brands Are Best Known for Their Indirect Cooking Performance?
The best gas grill brands known for their indirect cooking performance include:
- Weber: Renowned for its quality and durability, Weber grills often feature a two-zone cooking setup, allowing users to master indirect cooking effortlessly. Their popular models come equipped with flavorizer bars that enhance the flavor of food while maintaining even heat distribution.
- Napoleon: Napoleon grills are designed with advanced features like their infrared side burners and multiple cooking zones, which facilitate excellent indirect cooking. The brand’s high-quality build and versatility make them suitable for a variety of grilling techniques, ensuring consistent results.
- Broil King: Broil King grills boast dual-tube burners that provide even heat across the cooking surface, making them ideal for indirect cooking. Their unique design allows for adjustable heat zones, enabling users to create a perfect indirect cooking environment for larger cuts of meat.
- Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo offers a range of gas grills that excel in indirect cooking due to their spacious cooking areas and multiple burners. With features such as heat tents to distribute heat evenly, they are a budget-friendly option for achieving great results in indirect grilling.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil grills often come with a TRU-Infrared cooking system that minimizes flare-ups and delivers consistent heat, making them a solid choice for indirect cooking. Their range of models is user-friendly and geared towards providing an enjoyable grilling experience.
What Are the Benefits of Using Indirect Cooking on a Gas Grill?
Using indirect cooking on a gas grill offers several advantages that can enhance your grilling experience.
- Even Cooking: Indirect cooking allows for more uniform heat distribution, resulting in evenly cooked food.
- Enhanced Flavor: This method enables the use of wood chips or herbs for smoking, imparting rich flavors to the food.
- Reduced Risk of Burning: Cooking indirectly minimizes the chances of charring or burning, especially with delicate foods.
- Larger Cooking Area: Indirect cooking creates more space on the grill for larger cuts of meat or multiple dishes at once.
- Versatility: It allows for a variety of cooking techniques, such as roasting or baking, which are not typically associated with gas grilling.
Even Cooking: When using indirect cooking, food is placed away from direct flame, allowing heat to circulate around it. This results in a more consistent internal temperature, which is especially beneficial for larger cuts of meat that require longer cooking times.
Enhanced Flavor: By incorporating wood chips or smoking pellets in the grill, indirect cooking can add complex flavors that complement the meat. The slow cooking process allows these flavors to penetrate deeper, providing a more aromatic and tasty result.
Reduced Risk of Burning: Cooking foods indirectly reduces the likelihood of overcooking or burning the exterior while the interior remains undercooked. This is particularly useful for items like chicken, which can easily char on the grill if placed directly over the flames.
Larger Cooking Area: Indirect cooking expands your grilling capacity, as several items can be cooked simultaneously without overcrowding. This is ideal for gatherings where you may need to prepare multiple dishes at once, allowing for a more efficient grilling session.
Versatility: Indirect cooking opens up new possibilities for your gas grill, allowing you to roast vegetables, bake pizza, or even prepare desserts. This versatility makes the gas grill a more valuable tool in the kitchen, extending its use beyond traditional grilling.
How Can I Properly Maintain a Gas Grill to Optimize Indirect Cooking?
Proper maintenance of a gas grill is essential for optimizing indirect cooking, especially when selecting the best gas grills for this method.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is crucial for effective indirect cooking. This includes removing grease buildup and food residues from grates, burners, and other components to prevent flare-ups and ensure even heat distribution.
- Checking Burner Functionality: Ensure that the burners are functioning properly to provide consistent heat. Inspect for any blockages or damage, as uneven burner performance can lead to uneven cooking temperatures.
- Temperature Control: Familiarize yourself with the temperature settings of your grill. Properly adjusting the burners for indirect cooking requires setting some burners to high while leaving others off, helping to create a consistent heat source around the food.
- Use a Drip Pan: Placing a drip pan under the food can enhance indirect cooking by catching drippings and preventing flare-ups. This method also allows for the addition of liquid for moisture and flavor, further improving the cooking process.
- Preheating the Grill: Before starting indirect cooking, preheat your grill with all burners on for about 10-15 minutes. This establishes an even cooking environment and helps to stabilize the temperature for better cooking results.
- Inspecting Hoses and Connections: Regularly check the gas hoses and connections for leaks or wear. A secure gas supply is vital for maintaining stable heat during indirect cooking, preventing any interruptions or hazards.
- Calibrating Temperature Gauges: Ensure that your grill’s temperature gauges are accurate. Miscalibrated gauges can lead to incorrect cooking temperatures, which is critical for successful indirect cooking methods.