Useful Grilling Tips You Should Know

Summer’s in full swing, and that means grill season is officially on. But are you really getting the most out of your outdoor grills? If you’ve ever wondered how to level up your grill game (and avoid the all-too-common charred-on-the-outside, raw-on-the-inside dilemma), you’re in the right place.

We’re sharing some of our favorite grilling tips and tricks to help you grill smarter, cook better, and maybe even earn yourself that “Grill Master” title this summer.

 

 

Grilling Tips for Beginners

If you’re new to the grill scene, don’t worry, you don’t need to master ribs or brisket on day one. Start with the basics:

• Choose your grill type: From gas and charcoal to electric, pellet, and even pro-style models, there are plenty of options out there. Each offers unique benefits, and what matters most is finding the one that fits your cooking style and flavor preferences.

• Preheat your grill: Give it 10-15 minutes to get hot. That helps with better searing and prevents food from sticking.

• Don’t overload it: Too much food at once can drop the grill’s temperature and steam your food instead of searing it.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a grilling fork to safely flip thicker cuts. Just avoid piercing meats too much or you'll lose the juices.

 

Charcoal BBQ Grilling Tips

Charcoal grills are known for smoky, wood-fired flavor. It takes a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly rewarding.

• Use a chimney starter: For even ignition, skip the lighter fluid; it’s not worth the aftertaste.

• Wait until coals are white-hot: That’s when you know they’re ready. No more guessing.

• Control heat with your vents: Open vents = more oxygen and hotter flames. Close them to cool things down.

• Create two heat zones: Pile more coals on one side for searing, and leave the other side cooler for slow cooking or keeping food warm.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t forget to browse our grill accessories like chimney starters, grill brushes, and ash pans to make charcoal grilling easier and cleaner.

Gas BBQ Grilling Tips

Gas grills are perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when you don’t want to fuss with coals. They offer convenience, control, and fast preheating.

• Check for gas leaks: Before firing up, check for leaks, especially after long periods of no use.

• Cook with indirect heat for better control: Turn on the burners on one side of the grill and place your food on the unlit side. This helps prevent burning and is ideal for thick cuts of meat, whole chickens, or anything that needs slower, even cooking.

• Clean your grates: Clean grates prevent leftover gunk and off flavors.

Shop Metro’s selection of LP Gas Grills and Natural Gas Grills to find the right fit for your home setup. Choose an LP grill for propane tanks or a natural gas grill for built-in gas lines.

Electric BBQ Grilling Tips

Don’t overlook electric grills, as they’re perfect for small patios, apartments, or anywhere open flames aren’t allowed. With precise temperature control and quick plug-and-play operation, they’re a fantastic no-flame option.

• Preheat your grill fully: Give it at least 10-15 minutes to reach the desired temperature for proper searing.

• Use a grill-safe pan or mat: Since electric grills often have smaller grates, a grill mat helps prevent smaller foods from falling through.

• Keep the lid closed: This helps retain heat and mimics the effect of a traditional gas or charcoal grill.

• Avoid using heavy marinades: They can drip and create smoke or mess on the heating element. Opt for dry rubs or light sauces instead.

• Clean the grates after each use: Residue can build up quickly on electric elements, so wipe them down once the grill has cooled.

Pellet BBQ Grilling Tips

Pellet grills use compressed wood pellets and digital controls to deliver that authentic, slow-smoked flavor with the push of a button. Great for smoking brisket, ribs, or even baking pizzas.

• Choose the right wood pellets: Hickory, mesquite, apple, or cherry wood all create different flavor profiles; match the pellet to your meat.

• Keep the hopper full: Running out of pellets mid-cook can cause temperature drops and inconsistent results.

• Preheat before smoking: Give the grill time to come up to temp before adding your food, just like an oven.

• Use a water pan for added moisture: This helps prevent meats from drying out during long cooks.

• Clean out ash regularly: Built-up ash can affect airflow and performance, especially during longer smokes.

Pro-Style BBQ Grilling Tips

Want to build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams? Pro-style grills bring restaurant-level features to your backyard with unmatched power and precision.

• Plan your zones: With multiple burners, create dedicated areas for searing, indirect cooking, and warming.

• Use the rotisserie: Rotisserie cooking adds even browning and juicy results, especially for poultry and roasts.

• Take advantage of infrared burners: These deliver intense heat ideal for steakhouse-quality searing.

• Use a grill thermometer: Even with pro features, monitoring internal temps ensures perfectly cooked meats every time.

• Keep it clean: With all the bells and whistles, regular cleaning helps maintain performance and extends the life of your grill.

The Secret to Great Grilling

Here’s what separates grill rookies from the weekend pit masters:

• Know your temps: Invest in a meat thermometer. Guesswork is overrated.

• Don’t flip too often: Let food develop a crust before you move it.

• Rest your meat: Give it 5–10 minutes off the grill to let juices settle in.

• Get perfect grill marks: Place your meat at a 45-degree angle, then rotate halfway through each side.

 

Recommended Outdoor Grills

Here are some standout grills available now at Metro Appliances & More:

Green Mountain Grills Peak Prime 2.0 Grill

Model: 211507
Perfect for the tech-savvy outdoor chef, this pellet grill offers total control from your phone and delivers wood-fired flavor every time.

• WiFi and server mode for remote monitoring

• Custom cooking profiles and food timers

• SideBURN™ for versatile searing

• BBQ rotisserie included

• Power-efficient 12V direct power setup

• Wood-fired pizza ready with the RACKT™ system

DCS 48" Series 7 Grill

Model: BH148RSN
This powerhouse gives you the ultimate control—ideal for grilling, smoking, searing, and even baking pizza.

• Up to 126,500 BTUs of total power

• Double-sided stainless steel grates for searing and delicate foods

• Built-in smoker tray with dedicated burner

• Patented Grease Management System™ to reduce flare-ups

• Smart Beam™ halogen light for night grilling

• Wide temp range from 300° to 1100° with zero-to-sear gauge

Memphis Wood Fire Grills Elite Cart ITC3 Grill

Model: VG0002S
Blending the best of wood-fired flavor with modern technology, this grill is built for serious grillers who want versatility and precision.

• Temp range: 180–700°F with indirect and direct flame modes

• 24-lb dual pellet hopper—mix and match your favorite flavors

• Intelligent WiFi temperature monitoring and Bluetooth setup

• Ergonomic 7" touch screen display with interior lighting

• Oven-grade gasket and double-walled stainless steel design

• Includes direct flame insert, meat probe, and grill cleaning mode

 

Find Your Perfect Grill at Metro Appliances & More

Whether you're a burger flipper or a brisket whisperer, grilling should be fun, not frustrating. Stick to the basics, invest in the right tools, and take the time to learn your grill. 

If you’re ready to explore our grills for sale and more in person, contact us or visit us at one of our appliance store locations across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. We’re here to help you find a grill that fits your lifestyle, space, and flavor goals.

Browse our appliances online, including ranges, ovens, cooktops, and more.

Related readings from our blog:

• The Best Outdoor Grills for Backyard BBQs: Gas, Charcoal, or Pellet?

• Using Lighting To Create An Outdoor Oasis

• The Role of BTUs in Cooking Power: How Much Do You Really Need?

FAQ: Common Grilling Questions

What are the 3 basic rules of grilling?

First, always preheat your grill. This helps prevent food from sticking and ensures even cooking. Second, avoid overcrowding the grates so heat can circulate properly around each item. And third, let your meat rest after grilling to lock in the juices and keep it tender.   

How do I keep food from tasting like lighter fluid?

Use a chimney starter instead of lighter fluid. It’s safer, cleaner, and won’t affect the flavor.

What is the 3-2-1 method for grilling ribs?

3 hours smoked/grilled, 2 hours wrapped in foil with liquid, 1 hour unwrapped to finish. This method is perfect for fall-off-the-bone ribs

What’s the best temp to start grilling?

Between 400-450°F for direct heat. For low and slow, aim for 225-250°F.