Weber Genesis II Griddle review exploring durability, heat retention, and grilling performance

Description

My Experience with the Weber Genesis II Griddle (7599)

Testing the Weber Genesis II Griddle (7599) has been a game-changer for backyard cooking. It’s not just a griddle; it’s a versatile tool that adds an incredible layer of functionality to your grill setup. I’ve used it for everything from sizzling breakfast classics to perfectly seared steaks, and I can confidently say it’s one of the most reliable cast-iron griddles I’ve tried.

Design and Build Quality

The porcelain-enameled, cast-iron construction of this griddle immediately stood out to me when I set it up. The material ensures superior heat retention, which is a big deal when you’re cooking foods that require consistent temperatures. The griddle feels solid and durable, weighing in at 15 pounds, which gives it a sturdy presence on the grill. I also appreciate the rectangular shape (22″ x 16″), which provides ample space for cooking multiple items at once.

One detail I found particularly clever is the double-sided design—flat on one side and featuring grates on the other. This allows for a variety of cooking techniques, and flipping it over is straightforward. However, the weight can make flipping a bit of a workout if you’re not careful.

Performance and Heat Distribution

Cooking on this griddle is a breeze. The porcelain coating prevents sticking, which is a fantastic feature when you’re dealing with delicate items like pancakes or eggs. I was impressed by how evenly the heat distributed across the surface. No cold spots, no overcooked edges—just consistent results every time.

The angled cooking surface is another standout feature. It’s designed to drain grease into a reservoir, which then filters it to the cook box underneath. This not only keeps the cooking surface less greasy but also ensures that flare-ups are kept to a minimum.

Key Benefits

• Excellent versatility with its double-sided design—flat top for pancakes, grates for steaks.
• Superior heat retention and even distribution, thanks to its porcelain-enameled cast iron.
• Efficient grease management system reduces mess and prevents flare-ups.
• Compatible with Genesis II or II LX 3, 4, and 6 burner grills, making it an ideal accessory for those models.

Areas of Concern

• Weight: At 15 pounds, the griddle is heavy, which might be challenging for some users to handle.
• Compatibility limitations: It doesn’t fit the 2022 Genesis Gas Grills, which could be a dealbreaker for some.
• Care instructions: Since it’s not dishwasher safe, cleaning requires a bit of elbow grease, especially after cooking greasy foods.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Using the griddle felt intuitive. It fits snugly into place, replacing one of the grates on the grill. I do wish it were dishwasher safe, as hand washing can be a bit of a chore, especially if you’re not diligent about cleaning it immediately after use. That said, the porcelain-enameled coating does make it easier to scrub away food residue compared to other cast-iron griddles I’ve used.

Competing Products

Compared to similar griddles, this one holds its ground exceptionally well. I’ve tried accessories from other brands like Lodge and Cuisinart, and while they perform decently, they lack the specialized grease management system that the Weber Genesis II Griddle offers. Lodge’s griddles, for instance, are great for heat retention but don’t have the angled surface or the grease reservoir, making them messier to use.

On the flip side, some competitors like Cuisinart offer lighter griddles, which are easier to handle but don’t feel as durable or distribute heat as evenly. If durability and performance are your priorities, the Weber griddle takes the lead.

True Value

In terms of price to quality ratio, this griddle is worth the investment. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of durability, performance, and compatibility makes it a smart choice for anyone serious about grilling. It’s not just an accessory; it’s an upgrade to your outdoor cooking experience.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely—especially if you already own a Genesis II grill and want to expand its functionality. Just be ready to put in a bit of effort when it comes to cleaning and handling its weight.

Additional information