Upgrade Weber Genesis Grates (Like a Pro) | Arteflame

Quick Verdict: Can You Turn a Weber Genesis Into a Griddle?

Yes, you can instantly transform a Weber Genesis gas grill into a high-performance griddle by replacing the standard wire grates with a solid carbon steel insert. This upgrade optimizes the grill for searing, completely eliminates flare-ups, and creates a unified heating surface ideal for smash burgers, breakfast items, and vegetables. Unlike placing a pan on top of grates, a direct insert maximizes heat transfer for restaurant-quality results.

How Does the Arteflame Insert Compare to Standard Grates?

Most gas grills come with stainless steel or porcelain-enameled wire grates. While functional for basic grilling, they lose significant heat to the air and allow fat to drip down, causing flare-ups. Upgrading to a solid carbon steel surface changes the thermodynamics of your grill. The table below outlines the key performance differences.

Why Choose Carbon Steel Over Cast Iron for Your Weber?

When looking to upgrade a Weber Genesis, many pitmasters debate between cast iron and carbon steel. While cast iron is traditional, carbon steel offers superior durability and smoothness for daily use.

Does Carbon Steel Season Better Than Cast Iron?

Carbon steel is smoother than cast iron, which typically has a pebbled surface. This smoothness allows the seasoning (polymerized oil) to build up faster and more evenly, creating a glass-like, non-stick surface that rivals Teflon without the chemicals.

Pro Tip: Don't worry if your carbon steel insert looks dark or black after a few uses. This is called "seasoning." The darker the steel gets, the better it cooks and the more non-stick it becomes. Never use soap to clean it—just water and a scraper while it's hot.

How Do I Install and Use the Griddle Insert?

The installation process is designed to be a direct drop-in replacement, requiring no tools or modifications to the firebox of your Weber Genesis.

What is the Installation Process?

1. Remove Old Grates: Take out the existing wire grates from your Weber Genesis.
2. Clean Ledges: Briefly brush the grate ledges to ensure the new insert sits level.
3. Drop In Insert: Place the Arteflame carbon steel insert directly where the grates were.
4. Pre-Heat: Ignite the burners. Carbon steel heats up quickly; allow 10–15 minutes for the heat to distribute evenly across the entire flat top.

Pro Tip: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil (grape seed or avocado oil work best for high heat) immediately after the grill heats up. This protects the steel and starts the seasoning process instantly.

Is the Insert Compatible with All Weber Genesis Models?

Arteflame designs specific inserts to fit the Weber Genesis II 300 Series and other standard Genesis models. Always measure your current grate dimensions before ordering. The insert replaces the stock grates entirely, sitting flush to trap heat inside the cookbox for improved fuel efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I close the grill lid while using the griddle insert?

Yes, you can close the lid. However, because the solid steel retains significantly more heat than wire grates, monitor the temperature gauge closely to prevent the grill from running hotter than usual.

How do I clean the carbon steel insert?

Clean it while it is still hot. Pour a small amount of water onto the surface (the steam lifts debris) and scrape the residue into the grease trough with a flat spatula. Wipe it with a paper towel and a drop of oil.

Will the insert rust if left outside?

Like a cast iron skillet, carbon steel can develop surface rust if left unseasoned or exposed to heavy moisture without an oil coating. Keep it oiled after every use, and the seasoning layer will prevent rust naturally.