Transform Your Grill (BBQ Griddle Combo) | Arteflame

The Quick Answer: What is a BBQ Griddle Combo?

A BBQ griddle combo, often referred to as a plancha, combines a traditional fire bowl with a solid carbon steel cooking ring. This design eliminates grate flare-ups and creates a temperature gradient—hotter in the center, cooler at the edges—allowing you to sear steaks and sauté delicate vegetables simultaneously. Unlike open grates, the solid surface creates a complete seal for better heat retention and flavor infusion.

Why Choose a Flat Top Griddle Over Traditional Grates?

Most backyard chefs are accustomed to open wire grates, but these often lead to dry meat caused by moisture loss and burnt food from uncontrollable flare-ups. A flat top griddle creates a conductive surface that cooks food in its own juices.

The primary advantage of the Arteflame style combo is Information Gain through surface contact. Traditional grates only touch about 30% of your food. A solid griddle provides 100% surface contact, maximizing the Maillard Reaction—the chemical process that creates the savory browned crust on steaks and burgers.

Pro Tip: Unlike cast iron, which can crack under thermal shock, carbon steel griddles absorb heat faster and recover temperature almost instantly after you drop a cold steak on them, ensuring a consistent sear every time.

Comparison: Traditional Grates vs. Carbon Steel Griddle

What Foods Cook Best on a Carbon Steel Plancha?

The beauty of a BBQ griddle combo is the ability to cook entire meals that would fall through standard grill grates. You are no longer limited to burgers and hot dogs.

• Breakfast Items: Bacon, eggs, and pancakes cook flawlessly on the flat surface.
• Small Vegetables: Asparagus, sliced peppers, and onions sauté without foil packets.
• Seafood: Scallops and shrimp sear quickly without sticking or falling into the fire.
• Juicy Burgers: The smashburger technique is only possible on a solid surface griddle.

Pro Tip: Use the temperature zones to your advantage. Sear your protein on the inner edge closest to the fire, then slide it to the outer edge to finish cooking slowly while you sauté sides in the medium-heat zones.

How Do I Maintain a Seasoned Griddle Surface?

Maintenance for a BBQ griddle combo is closer to caring for a cast-iron skillet than cleaning a gas grill. You never need wire brushes or harsh chemicals.

To maintain the seasoning, simply scrape food residue into the fire after cooking while the surface is still warm. Wipe it down with a cloth and a thin layer of cooking oil. This oil polymerizes, creating a natural, non-stick black patina that improves with every cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the griddle surface require soap for cleaning?

No, you should never use soap on a carbon steel griddle as it strips the seasoning. Use heat, a scraper, and a little water for stubborn spots, then re-oil immediately.

Can I leave the Arteflame outside year-round?

Yes, these grills are designed to be left outside in all weather. The carbon steel cooktop may develop surface oxidation if not oiled, but this can be scraped off and re-seasoned easily.

What fuel creates the best heat for the griddle?

Hardwoods (like oak or hickory) or lump charcoal provide the best heat and flavor. Avoid softwoods like pine, as they burn too fast and produce resinous smoke.