Best Tailgate Grill

10 Best Tailgate Grills Of 2022

Are you a fan of outdoor picnics? Do you love to grill? Then you should get the best tailgate grill now!

A tailgate grill can be simplified as a grill that has the hefty feature called portability. Wherever you want to go, you can bring them with you.

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But of course, you have to be aware that not all tailgate grills are made equal. Some of them are great, while others feel too shabby. Sure enough, I know that you are here to get the right one.

In the next section, I listed some of the finest and most innovative grills for tailgate parties. See them now!

Name

Maximum BTU

Cooking Surface

Image

20,000 BTU

285 square inches

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill

8,500 BTU

189 square inches

Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill

9,500 BTU

200 square inches

Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill

20,000 BTU

285 square inches

Coleman Roadtrip LX Propane Grill

20,000 BTU

512 square inches

Blackstone Grills Tailgater - Portable Gas Grill and Griddle Combo - Barbecue Box - Two Open Burners “ Griddle Top - Adjustable Legs - Camping Stove Great for Hunting, Fishing, Tailgating and More

5,500 BTU

145 square inches

Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill, Red

8,500 BTU

189 square inches

Weber 51060001 Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill

20,000 BTU

285 square inches

Coleman Roadtrip X-Cursion Propane Grill

20,000 BTU

280 square inches

Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill

20,000 BTU

276 square inches

Cuisinart CGG-306 Professional Tabletop Gas Grill, Two-Burner, Stainless Steel
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is undeniably one of the top-performing grills that I have used so far. And I am pretty sure that those who have used this grill have the same opinion, too.

Just by looking at its design, you'll definitely know that it is meant for outdoor cookouts and tailgate parties. Just having the quick-fold legs and rugged wheels ensure that you can transport it without any difficulties.

Of course, the performance of this grill is definitely cemented by the fact that it comes with an improved burner technology. It can control over its maximum output. Specifically, this device is rated to have 20,000 BTU, which is more than enough to grill your favorite food.

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 has a cooking surface that is divided into three zones. Each of these zones has independent temperature configurations. With this innovative feature, you can cook any food here simultaneously. The burners can be adjusted accurately so that you can achieve your desired results.

Despite being a portable grill, the Coleman RoadTrip has a large cooking surface. You can grill any food on its 285 square inch grilling surface. Meanwhile, the grill has a non-stick property so that residues won't cling on it.

With all of these features, anyone would really enjoy using this grill. I recommend that you check out the RoadTrip and see why it is a top-choice even among pitmasters!

PROS

  • Powerful heating element
  • Temperature can be controlled precisely
  • Includes a push-button ignition
  • The grill grates can be swapped with stove grates or griddles
  • Can be transported easily.

CONS

  • Its water tray is seemingly shallow.
Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill

Another impressive portable grill that you can get for your next tailgate parties is the Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill. This one does not lack the features nor the qualities that would make your outdoor cookouts truly sumptuous!

Since this product is manufactured by Weber, you can expect that its durability is unquestionable. None of the parts is seemingly flimsy! From the grill grates down to its legs, this unit can really survive various external elements.

Specifically, its grates are tailored from porcelain-enameled cast-iron while its body and lid are from food-grade aluminum. These materials do not ensure the ruggedness of the device; they also guarantee that cleaning it would never be a problem.

Honestly, the heating output of this Weber Liquid Propane Grill is not as high as the Coleman RoadTrip 285. It only has a maximum 8500 BTU, but it is already decent enough for simple grilled recipes.

There are also useful ergonomics integrated on this grill. Just like the Coleman grills, this one features push-button ignition so that you don't need to use matches anymore. It also has an infinite control burner valve so that you can have better control in your cooking.

It's such a nice thing if you can have this Weber grill every time you decide to host a tailgate party. With its specifications, it is a sure eye-catcher!

PROS

  • Features a durable and sturdy build
  • Easy clean-up and maintenance
  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Doesn't consume too much fuel
  • Ensures simple and hassle-free controls.

CONS

  • Limited cooking surface
  • Heating output is pretty average.
Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill

Do you want a great tailgate grill but don't want to spend that big? Then the Char-Broil Grill2Go is the perfect choice for you! This one is surprisingly cheap. It doesn't cost higher than a hundred bucks, but its quality is truly superb and outdoor-worthy!

A good selling-point of this item is its ruggedness. This grill doesn't mind being tossed around while traversing off-road terrains. After all, its entire body is downright rugged and impervious to the elements. Even its latching lid is sturdy, too.

It also has a push-button ignition so that you can start grilling whenever you want to. Based on its specifications, the burner of the Char-Broil Grill2Go is rated at 9,500 BTU, which is pretty impressive already.

Despite its seemingly rock-solid construction, this tailgate grill is lightweight and portable. Whether you are camping or fishing, you can bring this unit with you with ease. Specifically, it only weighs less than 20 pounds.

The grill implements the use of TRU-Infrared technology. The latter is an innovative approach to grilling. Specifically, the device releases infrared heat throughout the cooking surface at an even rate. The infrared can heat and cook the food without drying it!

I am pretty sure that once you try this grill, you'll never get enough of it!

PROS

  • A great choice for portability
  • Sufficient cooking surface
  • TRU-Infrared technology prevents the food from drying
  • Highly sturdy and durable construction
  • Cooks food evenly.

CONS

  • It gets too hot sometimes
  • Stains and residues cling on it.
Coleman Roadtrip LX Propane Grill

If you are aiming to get a grill that is large but doesn't sacrifice any hint of portability, I suggest that you get the Coleman Roadtrip LX Propane Grill. This extra-large portable grill is the cousin of the Coleman RoadTrip 285. It has the same cooking surface of 285 square feet, which allows you to cook large quantities of food simultaneously.

Aside from that, the grill offers 20,000 BTU of heating capacity. It will never lack the power that you need to grill your favorite dishes and delicacies. The cooking surface is separated in half. Each of them has its own adjustable burners. In simplest terms, you can cook food here at different heat settings for optimal versatility.

The ergonomics of the Coleman Roadtrip LX doesn't stop there. The cooking top of the grill can be removed and interchanged with other cooking platforms. You can swap it for stove grates and griddles. However, only those that are produced by Coleman can fit on the grill. Furthermore, you need to purchase them separately.

You will not worry if you take the Coleman Roadtrip LX on a hot or cold season. This is due to the presence of the proprietary PerfectFlow technology, which allows it to maintain the ideal cooking temperature regardless of the external weather conditions.

Needless to say, the grill comes with push-button ignition. It also has a collapsible design for hassle-free storage and transport.

I highly suggest that you check this propane grill by yourself. I am confident that it can match (or surpass) your expectations!

PROS

  • Includes a tabletop setup so that it can work without a stand
  • Maximum heating output is high
  • Dual grates come with separate and independent burners
  • Weatherproof construction
  • Cooks food quickly and evenly.

CONS

  • You have to throw the grease gathered on its tray manually.
Blackstone Grills Tailgater - Portable Gas Grill and Griddle Combo - Barbecue Box - Two Open Burners “ Griddle Top - Adjustable Legs - Camping Stove Great for Hunting, Fishing, Tailgating and More

The Blackstone Grills Tailgater is something that I cannot miss here. I consider it as one of the best tailgate grills out there due to its versatility and finesse when grilling food.

This grill emphasizes the aspect of portability. It doesn't require fussy assembly before you can transport it in your vehicle. Furthermore, it doesn't weigh that much. Even a single person can carry it without difficulties.

Just like I said, one of the critical features of the Blackstone Grills Tailgater is its versatility. Well, that's no bluff. You can actually utilize the grill in different combinations. You can simultaneously use the grill and griddle simultaneously. You can also remove one grill so that you can use one of the burners for your pans and pots.

There are two burners integrated on this device: the stainless steel H-tube burner and cast iron burner. The H-tube burner has a maximum power output of 15,000 BTU, while the cast iron burner can generate up to 20,000 BTU. These specifications ensure that the grill can cook whatever barbecue recipe you have in mind.

Of course, the grill has a durable construction. Its components are either made from iron or steel. Moreover, powder coating has been applied to protect the grill from the damages that the external elements can cause.

This grill from Blackstone has been lauded by a lot of pitmasters already. I think it is time for you to try it as well!

PROS

  • Powerful heating output
  • Features a versatile setup for grilling and cooking food
  • Comes with impressive durability
  • Doesn't require cumbersome assembly
  • Not susceptible to the build-up of residues.

CONS

  • The grease tray requires improvement on its design
  • It is a large unit; it consumes space.
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill, Red

I admit that not all of you like to bring large grills to tailgate parties. Of course, if you are just going with a small party, it is not necessary anymore to bring the big guns on your arsenal.

The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill is an excellent choice for people who want to pack small. Its compact size is great for camping and backcountry adventures.

But of course, one cannot say that this particular grill is weak. That's not really the case here. I've tried this grill in the first place, anyway, and it didn't fail me or my stomach.

With a maximum output of 5,500, this one is capable of cooking your patties, barbecues, burgers, and other grilled recipes. It has a simple operation which allows quick and flawless setup. Even first-timers will never have difficulties using it.

The grill is also using a porcelain-enameled grate. It eliminates the possibility of having too many residues on the grill. At the same time, it ensures that the heat will be distributed throughout the cooking surface equally.

There is a pair of aluminum legs on this grill. You can either erect them or simply let them stay in a collapsed position. It is you who decides that! Furthermore, this grill owes its portability to its briefcase-style handles.

You will never regret acquiring this grill. It is a solid investment for simple tailgate parties!

PROS

  • Best choice for portability
  • User-friendly controls and interface
  • Comes with stable legs for upright grilling
  • Fuel-efficient tailgate grill
  • Grills food evenly.

CONS

  • Doesn't have a high heating output
  • Small cooking surface.
Weber 51060001 Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill

The big brother of the Weber Q1000 is definitely an outstanding choice. It is far from being shabby; it is a great grill that can serve your needs during tailgate parties, campsite picnics, and even simple backyard gathering.

This grill has an outstanding design. It was made to be tough so that the outdoor elements cannot compromise it. All of the parts are durable, too. It can last long in service as long as you clean and maintain it regularly.

Keep in mind that the grates of this grill are made from porcelain-enameled cast-iron while its body is from high-grade aluminum. These materials assure that the grill is not prone to suffer from durability and rigidity issues.

Furthermore, this grill has an easy-to-clean feature. The grates are removable, and its entire surface has non-stick property. Any food residue will never be able to cling to it, which makes it an absolutely convenient choice.

The burner of this grill can offer up to 8,500 BTU, which is already decent enough for making different barbecue and grilled recipes. It is also capable of heating food evenly. It doesn't overcook or undercook as long as you configure the temperature properly. Overall, the device can provide 189 square inches of cooking surface.

It also features an electronic ignition and infinite control burner valve configurations. In short, the grill can give you full control over its operation!

The quality of the Weber 51060001 Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill is downright convincing. If you get it, you'll never regret it.

PROS

  • Made from high-quality materials
  • Comes with better heat control
  • Compact and lightweight construction
  • Ensures hassle-free ignition
  • Includes an efficient grease management.

CONS

  • It is somewhat difficult to attach small gas cans on it
  • Cannot accommodate large fuel canisters.
Coleman Roadtrip X-Cursion Propane Grill

I don't have any bias towards Coleman. It is just that most of its portable grills are indeed great for tailgate parties and outdoor picnics. Coleman developed its grills in such a way that simple users like you and me can enjoy them to the full extent.

If you are looking for another travel-worthy companion, the Coleman Roadtrip X-Cursion Propane Grill is an excellent option to consider. First of all, it features a collapsible steel scissor legs and low profile construction. Carrying it anywhere you want is as easy as flipping a patty.

Of course, the wheels that come with its legs are rugged. They can run in different terrains without breaking or suffering from any issues.

The grilling surface is pretty large, too. You can enjoy 285 square inches of cooking surface on this grill. Aside from that, the Roadtrip X-Cursion also provides cast-iron grates with non-stick properties. Just because you are outdoors doesn't mean you are allowed to cook messily, right?

The convenience of using this grill is also due to its push-button ignition. Press the button, and the grill will heat up right away. There are also two independent and adjustable burners in the grill. In case you want to cook different delicacies, this feature is extremely useful.

Similar to other Coleman grills, the Roadtrip X-Cursion allows you to remove its grates and replace it with griddles and stove grate. With such a feature, you can always maximize your versatility in cooking.

Also, this grill is packed with 20,000 BTUs of grilling power despite its portable construction!

Check the Coleman Roadtrip X-Cursion and be surprised by its impressive qualities!

PROS

  • Comes with highly stable table top legs
  • Grilling grates can be replaced by griddles and stove grates
  • Includes high heating capacity
  • Burners can be controlled with precision
  • Designed for better mobility.

CONS

  • Its paint is susceptible to chipping.
Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill

The Char-Broil is another superb manufacturer of grills for outdoor picnics and tailgate parties. It can offer you a myriad of options that can certainly satisfy the inner pitmaster in you.

One of the highly commendable grills that you can get from Char-Broil is the Classic 280. This one was designed to accommodate large cookouts without sacrificing its portability. Specifically, the grill has 280 square inches of cooking surface. It is further accompanied by porcelain-coated grates for a more optimal cooking experience.

Even the lid and firebox of this grill are constructed from porcelain-coated steel. With such a specification, it is pretty clear that the Classic 280 is a durable unit. It can also repel damages caused by elements such as rust and corrosion. It will never complain if the weather is bad.

Meanwhile, the stainless steel inline burners of the Char-Broil Classic 280 are also rugged and durable. Aside from that, the burners can also provide better high to low temperature control than those traditional burners. I always deem that this is the best feature that this grill is currently in possession. It allows users to have better control over their cooking.

Another great feature that this grill possesses is its Piezo ignition system. The latter allows you to quickly start the burner in just a single push of a button. And even if it is windy or cold, the heating capacity of this grill is not affected. Specifically, it can produce up to 20,000 BTUs to ensure that you can still create your favorite delicacies.

The mobility of the Char-Broil Classic 280 is not a problem either. The highly stable legs are coupled with two six-inch molded plastic wheels. Not only are they resistant to the elements, but they can also provide maneuverability to the entire device.

And just like other grills here, the Classic 280 includes two metal shelves on its sides. You can use this as your plate or a compact table where you can prepare your goods!

There are a lot of good things that you can spot on this tailgate grill from Char-Broil. It is something that you need to check out right now!

PROS

  • Highly mobile and maneuverable tailgate grill
  • Offers a large cooking surface
  • The ignition system is indeed flawless
  • Can be used regardless of the weather condition
  • Heat adjustments are highly precise.

CONS

  • It takes time to assemble.
Cuisinart CGG-306 Professional Tabletop Gas Grill, Two-Burner, Stainless Steel

I know that some of you like the concept of instant. Even on tailgate grills, people want something that can require minimal or no assembly at all. Once you arrive at your destination, you want to grill to work right away.

Of course, not all tailgate grills are capable of doing that. That's why if you are searching for a grill with hassle-free setup, it is best that you would consider the Cuisinart CGG-306. This grill has a professional quality, but it is not flimsy as others have suggested.

Specifically, the grill features a no-assembly setup. For as fast as ten minutes, this one can already grill your meat, veggies, and other recipes. Of course, there's no need for extra tools to make it work. All of its operations are either controlled by a button or knobs.

Despite its portable construction, the Cuisinart CGG-306 includes two burners. Each of the burners can generate up to 20,000 BTUs. But on their own, the burners up to 10,000 BTUs, respectively. Because of this feature, the grill is capable of simultaneous grilling.

The stainless grate of the Cuisinart CGG-306 is the perfect choice for large cuts of meat. It can provide a performance that is similar to large grills. Since it is a two-burner system, every part of the meat can be cooked evenly. Furthermore, the food doesn't stick to the grates due to the latter's non-stick coating.

Needless to say, the setup of this tailgate grill is geared towards portability. Even if you are alone, you can easily carry this grill. You don't need to exert effort, too, as the device is pretty lightweight.

So does it mean that this grill has a flimsy build? Not necessarily. In fact, the Cuisinart CGG-306 is as tough as a nail. It can't get damaged easily. If properly maintained, it can serve for years!

Be sure that you can examine the features of the Cuisinart CGG-306 by yourself. Trust me. It will never make you frown!

PROS

  • Designed with minimized weight
  • Comes with a twist-start automatic ignition system
  • Can accommodate up to twenty pounds of propane tanks
  • Generates powerful heating capacity
  • Includes an integrated thermometer for a more precise grilling.

CONS

  • It gets too hot, especially on the area of the burners.

Best Tailgate Grill Buying Guide

Best Tailgate Grill Buying Guide

Not all tailgate grills are the same. It is for that reason why you need to be careful in selecting this particular product. You will never want to use a grill that doesn't suit up your expectations.

Fuel Source

A tailgate grill can be operated by different fuel sources. Here are some of them:

  • Gas - Just like its name suggests a gas grill uses gas or propane as its fuel source. The gas is contained in a tank and attached to the grill through a hose. You don't need to use matches when it comes to gas grills. You just need to press the ignition button for them to startup. Gas grills produce less mess and better control in grilling.
  • Charcoal - As I said, charcoal is one of the most preferred fuel types of pitmasters. After all, they are the ones that can produce authentic grill flavor. That smoky and charred texture is usually created by blazing hot charcoals. If you are a fan of barbecues, you can immediately tell the difference between the flavors that charcoal and gas grills can create. The only disadvantageous part of charcoal grills is their clean-up. It takes time before you can remove the residues and wastes on these grills.

Size

You need to be mindful of the size of the grill. Since we are talking about tailgate grills, it is quite given that many of us would go for compact units. But sometimes, that's not really the case, especially if you are bringing a large pack with you. If you are just going to set the grill within your campsite or nearby your vehicle, there's no problem in bringing larger units.

The size determines the cooking surface of the grill. The bigger the grill, the more space it can offer to you. For instance, a 250-square-inch tailgate grill can accommodate up to ten burgers at once.


Features

There are several features that a portable tailgate grill has to possess. Here are some of them:

  • Ignition - Using a tailgate grill should be a hassle-free experience. Therefore, matches are already out of the equation. A good grill comes with a push-button ignition system that enables you to start the device right away.
  • Non-stick Design - When grilling, it is pretty common for food residues to cling to the grill, specifically to the grates. However, new grill designs include non-stick coating to ensure that the food will not settle on the device.
  • Durability - Since we are talking about tailgate parties, it is pretty understandable that we are going to take the grill outdoors. The elements are present there, so it is pretty crucial that the grill can withstand them.
  • Controls - It is also important that the grill you choose should allow you to control the temperature of the grill. After all, it would really be bad if the grill will just heat up loosely!
  • Power - The maximum heating output of a grill is usually measured by BTU (British thermal unit). The higher the BTU it can produce, the more heat it can produce. Those grills that have higher heating capability are the best choice for grilling in cold conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What can I grill on a tailgate?

A: Honestly, there are a lot of recipes out there that suit well with tailgating. We are aware that as long as there's a grill, there's no limit to what we can cook.

Generally, people think that tailgating is only about burgers, barbecues, and hotdogs. They are the common delicacies, after all. However, your options are not actually limited to that. Otherwise, tailgating would really be boring, right?

Here are some suggestions that I can give: chile-glazed hanger steak, spice-rubbed T-bone steak, grilled lamb chops, tacos, and jalapenos. There are a myriad of variations for these recipes, so make sure you research the best possible option for a tailgate party!

If you want something new, these game day recipes can fit your tailgate and camping parties!

Q: What do you do at a tailgate party?

A: Aside from eating, there are still other things that you can do at a tailgate party. Even if you exclude drinking booze, tailgate parties can be a lot of fun when you do the following things.

  • Playing "Large" Games - Since the setting is outdoors, there's no limit as to what you can play. There are classic games out there that you can host such as giant Jenga, colossal checkers, or super-sized Connect Four!
  • Installing A Photo Booth - There's nothing wrong if you want to capture the fun in a tailgate party. And the best way to do this is not taking selfies, but rather through the use of a photo booth. Bring a lot of props with you, too!
  • Tripping With Music - Sure enough, music can elevate your tailgating experience. Whether you are cooking or chatting around, good music in the background simply enlivens the ambiance. There are a lot of songs to choose from. However, you have to make sure that they are suitable for everyone's preferences.

Here are some secrets on how you can make a tailgate party more enjoyable!

Q: How do you dispose of charcoal after tailgating?

A: Charcoal is one of the primary fuels that grills use. You can induce a smoky flavor to your meat and veggies when you use charcoal instead of other types of fuels. It is for that reason why a lot of people love to opt for charcoal grills.

However, the clean-up process for charcoals is a little bit tedious. You just need to be patient in dealing with them.

You must never dump hot coals anywhere. They have grease on them, which can cause a fire. If you are in a grassy area or a woodland, doing such is a risky move. Therefore, the best thing that you need to do is to wait for the coal to cool down before you throw them on designated trash cans.

Learn how to properly dispose of your charcoal residues here:

Conclusion

Having the best tailgate grill gives you the versatility that you need in cooking outdoors. It lets you create various recipes and delicacies even if you are far from the comforts of your backyard or kitchen.

The units that I listed here are among the finest options that you can have for a portable and powerful grill. You should check each of them and see which one catches your attention!

That's it for now. If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.

4.9/5 - (19 votes)

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