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The Best Grill Rack of 2024
Barbecue enthusiasts know that choosing the right grill rack is key to a successful cooking experience. A poor fit will lead to insufficient space and uneven cooking, negatively impacting the flavor and texture of the food. The best grill rack, however, will provide even heat distribution, ample space, and durability. With these crucial factors in mind, our team has conducted extensive research on the current market and shortlisted our top picks for 2024. Our favorite grill grate is from Weber, which has a 22-inch diameter perfect for round charcoal grills and convenient side handles for effortless portability. Keep reading to learn about our other top choices, and take advantage of our informative buying guide!
Our Top Picks For Grill Rack
View all ContentsThe Best Grill Rack
Best Overall
This cooking rack by Weber is our best overall pick for charcoal grills, thanks to its durable construction and 22.5-inch diameter. It is perfect for Weber grills but is compatible with most similar models. The handles on the sides are angled, making lifting the rack from your grill easy. Featuring heavy-duty plated steel, the rack supports multiple BBQ sessions. It will last you season after season, especially with proper cleaning, which is a breeze. Simply preheat it on high for about 15 minutes, then scrub the rack clean with a grill brush. If you need a replacement cooking grate, this robust rack from Weber is our top choice.
Pros
- Heavy-duty plated steel construction
- Angled handles for easy lifting
- Compatible with most round grills
Cons
- Does not fit Weber smokers
Best Value
The Hiware grill racks come in a pack of two, providing excellent value. The stainless steel construction prevents rust and provides long-lasting durability. The size is ideal for half-sheet pans and measures 11.8 by 16.5 inches. The robust structure handles temperatures up to 575 degrees, and the small grid size allows you to cook a range of foods. The grill grates feature six cooling feet that raise the racks by 0.6 inches, leading to better air circulation for even cooking. You can also place the racks on top of a drip tray for cooking juicy meats.
Pros
- Durable and rust-resistant
- Thick rack supports heavy weight
- Has six cooling feet
Cons
- Tight grid design is difficult to clean and the grill will eventually lose its original finish if you use it for grilling
Most Durable
The Kitchenatics Grill Racks 2-Pack sets itself apart from the competition with robust 304 stainless steel construction. The wire racks handle temperatures up to 575 degrees and support up to 45 pounds of weight without breaking or warping. The commercial-grade material makes it suitable for multiple applications, including baking, roasting, grilling, broiling, and smoking. They measure 8.5 by 12 inches, fitting any 13 by nine inch baking sheet. With three support bars, you can raise the racks by an inch for better air circulation. You can also use the versatile grill grates as a dish drying rack, griddle warming rack, crisper rack, and more.
Pros
- Multipurpose design
- Commercial-grade stainless steel
- Fits any 13″x9″ baking sheet
Cons
- Difficult to hand-wash tight grid
Best Tight Grid Design
Also a two-pack, the Checkered Chef Grill Racks measure eight by 11.75 inches, fitting most standard ovens and cookware sheets. With a tight grid design, the racks ensure sufficient airflow and prevent pieces of food from sinking and falling through. The robust stainless steel wire is rust-resistant and withstands temperatures up to 575 degrees. The support bars lift the grates, which is perfect for cooling foods or placing the racks over a drip pan. Plus, the grates are conveniently dishwasher-safe, taking time and hassle out of your chores.
Pros
- Available in three sizes
- Sturdy wire will not bend or wrap
- The grid is excellent for sufficient airflow
Cons
- Thinner wires than other racks
Also Consider
If you need the most durable grill grate but don’t need the two-pack, here you have it. The Kitchenatics Grill Rack is also available as a one-piece. The commercial-grade stainless steel rack withstands up to 575 degrees of heat and holds an impressive weight of 45 pounds, so you can confidently cook up a storm. The 8.5 by 12-inch size is perfect for placing over baking sheets, and you can raise the rack to ensure optimal airflow while cooking or cooling food. The dishwasher-safe rack stands the test of time without warping or wearing down, making it a reliable choice in 2024.
Pros
- Perfect for cooking and cooling
- Impressive 45-pound capacity
- Durable and dishwasher-safe
Cons
- Limited sizes to choose from
The Best Grill Rack: A Buyer’s Guide
If you love cooking, baking, or hosting backyard BBQs, you know what the best grill rack brings to the table. Grill racks, or cooking grates, are necessary for both home cooks and professional chefs, as they ensure proper heating and cooling of your meals. In this guide, we shed light on everything you need to know before purchasing a replacement cooking grate.
Purpose of a Grill Rack
You may use a cooking rack in a grill for barbecues, fish, veggies, and steak. It is generally oven-safe, perfect for baking tasty treats like macarons. You can also place it on top of a drip tray, ideal for juicy meats. Some grill grates double as cooling racks, letting soft foods like cookies cool without breaking when they are hot.
Material
Stainless steel grill racks are the most common choice, thanks to their durability and rust resistance. They are safe to use in the oven and can withstand the high temperatures they’re exposed to in grills. Some cooking grates feature plated steel, which provides durability but is not generally dishwasher-safe and may rust over time. Stainless steel is safe for the dishwasher and will not bend or warp with frequent use.
Size and Shape
Ensure the grate fits your grill and accommodates the amount of food you typically cook. These racks come in rectangular, circular, or specialty shapes, accommodating different cooking needs and specific grills. If you are looking for a rack for a specific grill, you will need to analyze the dimensions of both items to make sure they fit. The Weber Grill Grate, measuring 22 inches in diameter, is perfect for most round charcoal grills.
Grate Design
Analyze the cooking rack’s grate design to ensure your meals will cook evenly and won’t fall through. Racks with wide grids are ideal for fish, BBQ chicken, and similar foods. Small grid sizes are ideal for vegetables, cookies, and soft foods.
Value
To get the best value, select a durable and long-lasting BBQ rack. That way, you don’t have to worry about it wearing down season after season, and you can save money buying frequent replacements. Also, consider investing in a two-pack, especially if you cook or host BBQ parties often.
Longevity
The longevity of the wire grill rack depends on the quality of the rack and how you treat it. Extremely good quality ones can last several years, even 10 to 15 years, if you take good care of them. Thick, stainless steel ones can withstand high temperatures and are easy to clean. It is important that you do not let any grease or food residue accumulate on the grill, as it can get very difficult to get rid of. Cleaning it after every use is a crucial step in keeping it in top-notch condition. If you notice signs of discoloration and some part of the rack has started to bend, it’s time to replace it.
How Did We Choose Our Top Picks?
Our team goes through a rigorous process to ensure that we only bring the best products in the market to you. For this purpose, we analyze grill grates based on quality of material, brand reputation, value, and customer reviews.
People Also Asked
How do I wash a rack that is not dishwasher-safe?
First, soak the rack in soapy water. Rinse it clean, place it inside the grill, and turn the heat on. Once warm, scrape off any excess residue.
How often should I clean my grill grate?
It is important to clean your grill grate after every use. If you use the rack for cooling purposes, you can wipe it clean after every use and wash it once a week.
Is it safe to eat food cooked on a rusted grill rack?
You should not eat food that has been cooked on a rusted rack, as it can be dangerous for your health.
