Upgrade Your Weber GBS Insert (Like a Pro) | Arteflame

The Ultimate Weber Gourmet BBQ System Griddle Upgrade

Transforming your Weber kettle into a versatile flat-top grill is effortless with the right accessory. By replacing the standard center grate of your Weber Gourmet BBQ System (GBS) with a solid carbon steel insert, you instantly create a high-heat searing surface that eliminates flare-ups and prevents food from falling through the grates. This simple swap leverages the intense heat directly above the charcoal basket for steakhouse-quality sears while keeping the outer perimeter open for airflow and indirect cooking.

Which Grate Insert Offers the Best Performance?

When deciding between sticking with the stock wire grate, upgrading to cast iron, or switching to carbon steel, the difference lies in heat conductivity and versatility. The table below compares the standard Weber setup against the Arteflame carbon steel upgrade to help you decide quickly.

How Does the Carbon Steel Insert Improve Cooking?

The standard Weber GBS grate is excellent for general grilling, but it lacks the surface area required for the Maillard reaction—the chemical process that creates the delicious crust on a steak or burger. A solid carbon steel insert solves this immediately.

Why is Surface Area Important for Flavor?

Wire grates only sear the food where the metal touches, which is less than 20% of the surface area. A solid insert provides 100% surface contact. This creates a uniform crust, seals in juices, and allows you to cook foods impossible to grill on wire racks, such as bacon, eggs, pancakes, and finely chopped vegetables.

Pro Tip: Unlike cast iron, carbon steel is slightly flexible and much more durable against thermal shock. You can take the insert from freezing temperatures to a blazing hot fire without worrying about the metal cracking.

Is Carbon Steel Better Than Cast Iron for Weber Grills?

Many grillers default to cast iron accessories, but carbon steel is the superior choice for modern outdoor cooking. While both materials hold heat well, carbon steel offers a smoother surface that seasons faster and becomes non-stick much more easily than the rough texture of cast iron.

How Does the Seasoning Process Work?

The Arteflame insert arrives ready to be seasoned. As you cook with oil and heat, the oil polymerizes to the steel, turning it black. This "patina" is essential—it protects the steel from rust and creates a slick, natural non-stick coating. The more you cook, the better the performance becomes.

Pro Tip: Never scrub your carbon steel insert down to the bare silver metal after the first use. That black layer is your flavor and non-stick protection. Simply scrape it clean while hot and wipe it down with a light coat of oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Arteflame insert fit all Weber grills?

The insert is designed specifically for the Weber Gourmet BBQ System (GBS) grates, which typically feature a removable 12-inch center section. It fits perfectly into 22-inch Weber kettles and other models equipped with the GBS grate.

Do I need to clean the insert with soap?

No, you should avoid using soap on seasoned carbon steel as it can strip the non-stick patina. The best cleaning method is to scrape food residue into the fire while the grill is hot, then wipe the surface with a paper towel and a small amount of cooking oil.

Can I use this insert for low and slow cooking?

Yes, the insert acts as a heat deflector directly over the coals. You can place meat on the outer wire grate for indirect cooking while the solid center plate blocks direct flame, helping to regulate temperature and prevent burning.