Upgrade Your Nexgrill: Best Replacement Grates | Arteflame

The Fastest Way to Upgrade Your Nexgrill Performance

Replacing standard Nexgrill grates with a solid carbon steel insert is the single most effective upgrade for versatility and flavor. Unlike stock wire or cast iron grates that allow juices to fall into the flames, a griddle insert captures drippings to sear meat in its own flavor while completely eliminating dangerous flare-ups. This simple drop-in replacement instantly converts your standard gas grill into a professional-grade flat-top cooker.

How Does a Griddle Insert Compare to Stock Nexgrill Grates?

Before purchasing standard replacement parts, consider the significant performance differences between sticking with stock grates and upgrading to a carbon steel flat top. The data below highlights why many grillers are making the switch.

By switching to a solid surface, you gain the ability to cook foods that would normally fall through the cracks, such as vegetables, eggs, and bacon.

Why Is Carbon Steel Better for Searing Than Standard Grates?

When you use standard grates, the heat is primarily convective, meaning hot air cooks the food. While this creates grill marks, it often dries out the meat. Carbon steel inserts convert that heat into conductive heat.

Pro Tip: For the perfect smash burger, you need a surface that retains high heat without dropping temperature. Carbon steel is virtually indestructible and absorbs heat faster than cast iron, allowing for a deep, flavorful crust (the Maillard reaction) across the entire surface of the meat, not just where the grate touches it.

Additionally, carbon steel seasons over time, becoming naturally non-stick and turning pitch black. This creates a surface that is easier to clean than rough cast iron and more durable than porcelain-coated wire.

How Do I Measure My Nexgrill for a Replacement Insert?

Nexgrill manufactures various models, so ensuring the correct fit is critical. The Arteflame insert is designed to replace your existing grates directly, sitting on the original grate supports.

To find the perfect match, remove your current grates and measure the inside of the firebox from left to right and front to back. The insert fits specific sizes, such as the widely used 27-inch replacement size.

• Check the Depth: Ensure the front-to-back measurement matches the insert.
• Check the Width: You can often use an insert that covers the majority of the grill while leaving a small section for traditional grate cooking if desired.

Pro Tip: Don't measure your old grates; they may have warped over time. Always measure the interior ledge (the firebox) where the grates rest to ensure an accurate fit for your new insert.

What Is the Best Way to Clean and Maintain the Insert?

Maintenance is one of the biggest advantages of upgrading to carbon steel. Unlike wire racks that require deep scrubbing between individual bars, a griddle insert can be cleaned in seconds.

1. Scrape it Down: While the grill is still hot, use a flat scraper to push food residue into the fire.
2. Wipe with Oil: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil (like grapeseed or avocado oil) using a paper towel.
3. Let it Cool: The oil protects the steel from moisture and builds up the seasoning layer.

If you encounter rust, it is easily fixed. Scrub the spot with steel wool, wipe it clean, and re-season with oil and heat. The surface is self-healing through seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the griddle insert on just one side of my Nexgrill?

Yes, depending on the size of your grill and the insert. Many users choose to replace only a section of their grates, creating a hybrid cooking zone with both a flat top and traditional open grates.

How long does it take for the carbon steel insert to heat up?

Carbon steel heats up very quickly, usually within 5 to 10 minutes on a gas grill. Because it is conductive, it distributes the heat evenly, eliminating the hot and cold spots common with standard thin wire grates.

Does the insert require seasoning before the first use?

Yes, seasoning is essential for non-stick performance and rust protection. Wash the insert to remove shipping oils, heat it up, apply a high-smoke-point oil (like flaxseed or grapeseed), and let it smoke off. Repeat this 2-3 times for a solid base.