Why Every Gas Grill Needs a Wood Fire Backup

Introduction

If you're used to grilling with a propane and charcoal grill—or even an electric one—you might be missing out on a world of flavor. Most gas grills max out around 450°F, which isn't hot enough to create the coveted Maillard reaction. This chemical reaction, essential to searing steaks and locking in flavor, typically requires temperatures of 600°F and above. Only a wood fire can efficiently deliver that intense heat and classic smokiness that elevates foods like perfectly seared steaks, burgers, briskets, and ribs. With a wood-fired grill like Arteflame, you can reach temperatures up to 1,000°F, creating steakhouse-quality results that gas grills simply can't replicate.

Grilling on gas may be convenient, but it often falls short when it comes to flavor, heat range, and overall cooking experience. There's a reason gourmet chefs and barbecue champions stick with wood: it's unbeatable. Let’s explore why adding a wood-fired grill to your lineup is a game changer.

Why Wood Fire Wins

There's no denying the speed and ease of a propane and charcoal grill, but when it comes to culinary depth, nothing compares to grilling over wood. Here’s why investing in a wood-fired grill—particularly an Arteflame—amplifies your outdoor cooking experience:

1. Unmatched Searing Power

Wood-fired grills like the Arteflame allow you to reach temperatures up to 1,000°F. This is crucial for achieving the Maillard reaction, which happens between 300°F–500°F but is significantly enhanced at higher temperatures. This reaction caramelizes the surface of meats, creating that crave-worthy crispy crust and amplifying umami flavors.

Gas grills typically top out at 450°F even with all burners on full. That kind of limit makes reverse searing or achieving steakhouse finishes nearly impossible without extended cooking times—which risks drying out your meat.

2. Signature Wood-Fire Flavor

A propane and charcoal grill can’t replicate the deep, smoky flavor brought on by burning hardwoods. Whether you’re using oak, hickory, or cherry wood, a wood-fired grill infuses your food with nuanced layers of flavor gas simply can’t mimic.

• Steaks develop a rich crust and bold flavor.
• Burgers taste heartier and juicier.
• Vegetables take on a sweet, smoky undertone.
• Pizzas get that perfect blistered crust with a hint of firewood aroma.

3. Seamless Cooking Versatility

A wood-fired Arteflame grill isn’t just about searing—it’s a full-blown outdoor kitchen. The plancha surface surrounding the center fire offers graduated heat zones, allowing you to:

• Sear meats in the center over flames.
• Sauté onions and peppers on the outer ring.
• Slow-roast vegetables or even cook breakfast items like eggs and pancakes.

This dual-zone cooking means you can prepare entire meals on one surface without overcooking or cooling down parts of your grill.

4. Designed for Social Cooking

Unlike propane and charcoal grills, which often have a closed-lid design and limited surface space, Arteflame grills invite guests to gather around. The open plancha layout creates a communal, interactive cooking atmosphere—a perfect centerpiece for backyard entertaining.

It’s not just about function; it’s about experience. The aroma of wood smoke, the visual of flames licking the cooking surface, and the sound of sizzling meat create a sensory-rich atmosphere that electric and gas grills can’t provide.

5. Beautiful, Durable Craftsmanship

Arteflame grills are engineered to be statement pieces. Made from American steel and corten—also known as weathering steel—they develop a beautiful patina over time without rusting through. Strong, easy to maintain, and visually stunning, these grills are built to last and to impress.

6. Seamless Integration With Your Gas Grill

You don’t need to choose between propane and wood. Many grill masters use their propane grill for fast, everyday meals and rely on their wood-fired grill when flavor and presentation matter most. Having both lets you pick the perfect tool for the job—whether it's a quick weeknight chicken breast or a Saturday night ribeye extravaganza.

Conclusion

While a propane and charcoal grill can serve the basics, only a wood-fired grill—like an Arteflame—delivers the high-heat performance and rich flavor profiles needed to elevate your outdoor cooking. From steakhouse-quality finishes at 1,000°F to the deep umami-packed flavors of wood smoke, Arteflame transforms your backyard into a culinary destination.

Beautiful, functional, and 100% made in the USA, Arteflame grills are the perfect complement to your existing gas setup. Add one to your outdoor cooking arsenal, and never settle for “just grilled” again—grill with passion, grill with power, and grill with fire.