If you’re a barbecue enthusiast, you probably know that having separate equipment for grilling and smoking can take up valuable space and be quite a hassle. That’s where grill smoker combos come to the rescue, offering the convenience of both grilling and smoking in a single unit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top grill smoker combos for 2024, covering various types and price points to help you find the perfect fit for your outdoor cooking needs.
Which are the Best Grill Smoker Combos?
We like the Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill as one of the Best Overall. However, if that doesn’t fit your needs, we have some excellent alternatives like the Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 Wood Fired Pellet Grill should work well for most.
Keep reading to discover the other grill smoker combos we reviewed and what we liked best with each.
Why Choose a Grill Smoker Combo?
Grill smoker combos are versatile outdoor cooking appliances that allow you to grill your favorite steaks, burgers, and vegetables while also providing the capability to smoke mouthwatering ribs, brisket, or chicken to perfection. They offer several advantages:
- Space Efficiency: One of the primary reasons to consider a grill smoker combo is its space efficiency. These units are designed to maximize the use of your outdoor cooking area. They combine two essential pieces of equipment into one, saving you valuable space on your patio or deck.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in a grill smoker combo can also be a cost-effective choice. When you purchase these two components separately, it can add up to a substantial expense. Combos often provide a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on quality.
- Convenience: Convenience is another key advantage of grill smoker combos. They are designed for ease of use, making them accessible to both beginners and experienced grillmasters. Additionally, these units allow you to switch between grilling and smoking effortlessly, giving you versatility in your outdoor cooking adventures.
Our Review Criteria and Approach
Our expert panel has rigorously evaluated a range of grill smoker combos, considering factors like build quality, performance, and user feedback. You can trust our recommendations to guide you towards the best options on the market.
We believe in full transparency, which is why we’ll provide you with the pros and cons of each featured product. User feedback is also crucial, as it offers real-world insights into the performance of these combos.
Now, let’s dive into our top choices for the some of the best grill smoker combos, covering various fuel types and their unique features.
Top Picks: Grill Smoker Combos That Excel
1. Best Overall Grill Smoker Combo – Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill
- Air Lift Hinge – The air lift hinge significantly reduces dome weight. The grill dome can be lifted with a single finger giving the most comfortable…
- Exclusive Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system multilevel, half-rack design doubles cooking space and frees you to cook different foods on…
- Patented, all-aluminum, no-rust, rain-proof control tower top vent maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management
Versatility and Ease of Use: Kamado ceramic grills are renowned for their versatility, excelling at both grilling and smoking. Their exceptional insulation ensures steady temperatures for hours without constant monitoring.
Innovative Features: Kamado Joe includes innovations like the divide and conquer cooking system, allowing you to grill different foods at varying heights. The airlift hinge reduces the dome’s weight by 96%, enhancing usability.
What We Like: The Kamado Joe ticks all the boxes for a versatile grill smoker combo. The two-tier grill rack system is super convenient, and the heat deflector simplifies low and slow smoking. Cleanup is easy with the ash clean system.
What We Don’t Like: Kamado Joe can be on the expensive side, especially for larger options, and there’s a slightly updated Joe Classic III version available.
2. Best Budget Grill Smoker Combo – Char-Griller Akorn Kamado
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL – Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
- LARGE COOKING AREA – 20 inch Cooking Diameter with 447 square inch total Cooking Area can cook up to 27 burgers at once
- BEST IN CLASS FEATURES – Triple-Walled Steel Insulated Design, Cast Iron Grates, Locking Lid, 8″ Locking Caster Wheels, Removable Warming Rack, Bottom…
Great Value: The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado offers the benefits of a Kamado grill at a budget-friendly price. It provides ample cooking space and a simple ash cleanout system.
Affordable Kamado Experience: While it may not match the performance of high-end Kamado grills, it’s a decent alternative for those on a tight budget who want to experience Kamado grilling and smoking.
What We Like: Excellent value for money and a straightforward ash cleanout system for easy maintenance.
What We Don’t Like: Cheaper construction compared to premium Kamado grills, so it may not hold temperatures as steadily for extended low and slow cooking.
3. Best Pellet Grill for Smoking & Grilling – Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 Wood Fired Pellet Grill
- SmokeFire is the best pellet grill for searing, smoking, and everything in between with a competitive 200-600°F temperature range.
- Weber Crafted Outdoor Kitchen Collection frame included; sear, roast, bake, steam, and even stir-fry food never thought possible in a grill by simply…
- Weber Connect smart technology is your secret ingredient to perfectly grilled food – receive real-time food temperature alerts, reminders, and flip &…
High-Temperature Grilling: The Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 breaks the pellet grill mold by reaching higher temperatures, making it suitable for both grilling and smoking. Its unique design improves searing capabilities.
Wood Pellet Hopper and Auger Design: Weber’s innovation in hopper and auger design minimizes pellet jams, enhancing reliability.
What We Like: Improved wood pellet handling, efficient grilling and smoking, and the option to receive notifications when pellets are running low.
What We Don’t Like: The grease catchment system could be more efficient, and it lacks extensive shelving and storage areas.
4. Best Tabletop Grill Smoker Combo – Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill
- UNMATCHED VERSATILITY: Whether for individuals, couples, or family get-togethers, enjoy grilling, air frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and…
- CUSTOMIZED SMOKY FLAVORS: Tailor your cooking experience by using various wood pellets for smoking different foods, creating unique, rich flavors that…
- EFFORTLESS MONITORING: No more guesswork during your weekly meal prep or family BBQs. The smart built-in thermometer ensures everything from burgers…
Excellent Smoke Flavor: The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill is an electric grill with added smoking capabilities. It’s portable and offers a unique smoke flavor for your dishes.
Mobility: This grill is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for on-the-go grilling and smoking. Cleanup is a breeze with contained mess and easy-to-remove grill grates.
What We Like: Impressive smoke flavor, portability, and easy cleaning.
What We Don’t Like: Could be slightly wider for more cooking space.
5. Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24 Deluxe Pellet Grill with Optional Sear Box
- Large capacity pellet hopper with exclusive ash cleanout system
- Electronic auto-start ignition for quick and easy start every time
- Dual LED temperature readout shows internal cooking temps and food temps
Affordable Option: The Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24 offers great value, allowing you to choose between smoking and grilling. It provides efficient temperature control and plenty of cooking area.
Temperature Control: You can easily maintain ideal smoking temperatures for extended periods, and it’s quick to fire up for cooking.
What We Like: Efficient design and temperature control, along with various preset options.
What We Don’t Like: The one-year warranty is below industry standards, and for searing, you may want to consider the optional Sear Box add-on.
6. Weber Original Kettle Premium 22″ Charcoal Grill
- Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
- One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
Versatile Option: The classic Weber Kettle grill, while primarily known for grilling, can also serve as a competent smoker with the right setup.
Durable Construction: Weber Kettle grills are known for their durability, with porcelain enamel-coated steel bodies that resist rust.
What We Like: Affordable and versatile, with even heat distribution and portability.
What We Don’t Like: Requires some modifications for effective smoking, and cooking space can be limited on smaller models.
7. Weber Genesis II E-310 Propane Grill
- Boasts the GS4 grilling system with improved infinity ignition, burners, porcelain-enameled Glamorizer Bars, and grease Management system.Durable…
- Porcelain-enameled, cast iron cooking grates
- 529 Square inches of cooking space over three burners. Left Table down width – 42 inches
High-Quality Grill: The Weber Genesis II E-310 is primarily a grill but can be adapted for smoking with the right techniques. It offers outstanding build quality, even heat distribution, and a generous warranty.
Efficient Design: Weber’s design keeps heat inside, resulting in efficient temperature control and fewer flare-ups.
What We Like: Durable construction, even heat distribution, and an extended warranty.
What We Don’t Like: Lack of cabinet doors for grease tray access, and you’ll need to adapt it for smoking.
How to Smoke on Your Grill Smoker Combo
If you’re new to smoking but eager to give it a try on your grill smoker combo, here are two popular methods to get you started:
The Snake Method: A Brief Overview
The Snake Method is a clever setup that transforms your standard charcoal grill into an efficient smoker. Instead of piling charcoal in the center of the grill, you arrange it in a serpentine pattern along one side. This slow-burning line of charcoal provides consistent, low heat for hours, perfect for smoking everything from brisket to ribs, chicken, and more.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the steps, gather the following equipment:
- Charcoal grill: Ideally, a kettle-style grill with a lid.
- Charcoal: Choose high-quality briquettes or lump charcoal.
- Wood chunks or chips: For that essential smoky flavor.
- Charcoal chimney starter: To light your coals evenly.
- Drip pan: To catch drippings and prevent flare-ups.
- Water pan (optional): For added moisture control.
Step 1: Set Up Your Grill
- Select the Right Grill: While the Snake Method can work with various grill sizes, a kettle-style charcoal grill with a lid is the most common choice. Ensure your grill is clean and in good condition.
- Position the Grill: Find a suitable location for your grill, away from flammable materials and in a well-ventilated area.
Step 2: Prepare the Charcoal
- Arrange the Charcoal: Begin by stacking a single layer of charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal along one side of the grill’s charcoal grate. This will be the “snake” that slowly burns.
- Add Wood Chunks: Place a few chunks or a handful of wood chips evenly along the line of charcoal. Soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to create a slower, smoldering smoke.
- Charcoal Chimney Starter: Fill a charcoal chimney starter with charcoal and light it. Once the coals are hot and ashed over, carefully pour them onto one end of the charcoal snake. This will serve as your starting point.
Step 3: Set Up the Grill
- Add a Drip Pan: Place a drip pan filled with water or other flavorful liquids on the opposite side of the charcoal snake. This helps regulate temperature and keeps the cooking environment moist.
- Grill Grates: Position the cooking grates on top of the grill. Ensure they’re clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Temperature Control: Open the grill’s bottom vents partially to establish a controlled airflow. The top vent should be positioned above the food to draw smoke and heat over it.
Step 4: Smoking Your Meat
- Prep Your Meat: Season your meat as desired. Consider applying a dry rub or marinade for enhanced flavor.
- Placement: Place your meat on the grill grates, directly above the drip pan. Ensure there’s enough space between pieces for proper air circulation.
- Cover with the Lid: Close the grill’s lid, making sure the top vent is aligned with your meat. This allows smoke and heat to flow over the food evenly.
Step 5: Monitoring and Adjusting
- Temperature Control: Keep a close eye on the grill’s temperature using a reliable thermometer. The ideal smoking temperature generally ranges between 225°F and 275°F (107°C to 135°C).
- Adding More Charcoal: If your snake starts to run out of charcoal, prepare more coals in the chimney starter and add them to the unlit end of the snake. This keeps the fire going.
Step 6: Rest and Enjoy
- Resting the Meat: Once your meat reaches its target internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender bite.
- Slice and Serve: After the brief rest, slice or shred your smoked creation and serve it up to eager family and friends. Enjoy the fruits of your smoking labor!
Using a Pellet Smoker Tube (For Pellet Grills)
Invest in a pellet smoker tube, load it with wood pellets, and place it away from the direct heat source in your pellet grill. Ignite the pellets, and they will produce smoke for several hours, enhancing your smoking experience.
Follow these simple steps to create smoky masterpieces:
Step 1: Fill the Pellet Smoker Tube
- Choose Your Pellets: Select wood pellets that complement your meat. For instance, hickory pairs beautifully with beef, while applewood enhances poultry.
- Fill the Tube: Load the Pellet Smoker Tube with the chosen wood pellets, leaving about an inch at the top. Ensure the pellets are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Light the Pellets
- Prep Your Tube: Place the Pellet Smoker Tube on a heatproof surface, like a metal tray, to catch any ash.
- Use a Torch or Lighter: Ignite the pellets through one of the tube’s end openings. Let them burn for a few minutes until you see a steady flame.
- Let It Burn: Allow the pellets to burn for about 10-15 minutes. You want a consistent, smoldering smoke, not a roaring fire.
Step 3: Place the Tube in the Grill
- Safety First: While the pellets are smoldering, ensure your grill is in a safe location, away from flammable materials.
- Position the Tube: Once the pellets are producing steady smoke, place the Pellet Smoker Tube on the grill grates, ideally in an indirect cooking area. Position it to avoid direct contact with the flames.
Step 4: Smoke Your Meat
- Prep Your Meat: Season your meat as desired, considering the flavors of the wood pellets you’ve chosen.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer to keep an eye on the internal temperature of your meat. Different meats have specific target temperatures for ideal doneness.
- Adjust Grill Settings: Adjust the grill’s temperature settings to maintain the desired smoking temperature, typically between 225°F and 275°F (107°C to 135°C).
Step 5: Enjoy the Results
- Patience Pays Off: Smoking is a slow and low process. Depending on what you’re smoking, it may take several hours to reach the desired level of smokiness and tenderness.
- Rest and Serve: Once your meat reaches the ideal internal temperature, remove it from the grill, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat.
Remember to use a reliable wireless thermometer to monitor your cooking temperature and ensure your smoked dishes reach perfection.
Wrapping Up: Elevate Your Grill Smoker Combos Outdoor Cooking Game
There are various grill smoker combos to choose from, catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer the versatility of a Kamado grill, the affordability of a budget option, or the high-temperature grilling capabilities of a pellet grill, you can find the perfect grill smoker combo to elevate your outdoor cooking game. With the right techniques and methods, you’ll be smoking and grilling like a pro in no time. Enjoy your delicious barbecue creations
We invite you to explore the world of grill smoker combos, experiment with smoking techniques, and embark on a flavorful journey that will leave your friends and family impressed at your next barbecue.
Trust the experts at Red Brick Kitchen to be your go-to resource for all things related to outdoor cooking. Thank you for joining us on this culinary adventure, and here’s to making your next grill session truly remarkable!
Expert Tips and Tricks
Pro Tips from Experienced Grillmasters
As you progress on your smoking journey, it’s always valuable to have some expert tips and tricks up your sleeve. Here are insights from experienced grillmasters to help you level up your smoking game:
- Master the Fire Control: Managing the fire in your grill smoker combo is an art. Pay close attention to airflow, use a charcoal basket for even heating, and consider using a water pan to regulate temperature and add moisture.
- Experiment with Rubs and Marinades: The seasoning you use can make a world of difference in your smoked dishes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various rubs, marinades, and brines to discover unique flavor profiles.
- The Art of Resting: Just like a fine steak, smoked meat benefits from resting. Once your meat reaches the desired internal temperature, let it rest for a while before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.
- Keep an Eye on Smoke Color: Smoke should be a pale blue color. If it’s billowing white, that indicates incomplete combustion and can impart a bitter taste. Adjust your fire and airflow to achieve the ideal smoke.
- Consider Reverse Searing: For an exceptional crust on your meat, try reverse searing. Smoke your meat until it’s close to the target temperature, then finish it with a quick sear over high heat. It’s the best of both worlds.
- Experiment with Wood Combos: Don’t limit yourself to a single wood type. Mixing different woods can create complex and unique flavors. Try pairing fruitwoods with hickory or oak for exciting results.
- Maintain a Smoking Journal: Keep a record of your smoking sessions. Note the wood used, cooking times, temperatures, and seasonings. This helps you replicate your successes and learn from any mishaps.
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety when using your grill smoker combo. Ensure it’s set up on a stable surface, keep children and pets away from hot surfaces, and use heat-resistant gloves and utensils.
FAQs About Grill Smoker Combos
Q1: How long does it take to smoke a brisket on a grill smoker combo?
Smoking a brisket typically takes 10 to 12 hours at a low and slow temperature of around 225°F to 250°F. However, the exact time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the brisket.
Q2: Can I use charcoal and wood chips together in my combo for smoking?
Yes, you can. Combining charcoal and wood chips provides both heat and that essential smoky flavor. Use a charcoal chimney starter to ignite the charcoal and add soaked wood chips for smoke.
Q3: What’s the difference between indirect grilling and smoking on a grill smoker combo?
Indirect grilling involves cooking food away from the direct heat source, often using a two-zone setup. Smoking on a grill smoker combo focuses on low and slow cooking with a continuous supply of smoke for flavor.
Q4: Is it necessary to soak wood chips before using them for smoking?
While soaking wood chips can prolong their smoldering time, it’s not necessary. Dry chips ignite faster, producing smoke more quickly. Experiment with both methods to find your preference.
Q5: How can I prevent my meat from becoming too smoky or bitter?
To prevent overly smoky or bitter meat, use a clean fire source, avoid oversmoking, and ensure proper airflow in your combo. Choose hardwoods like apple or cherry for a milder smoke flavor.
Additional Resources
Suggesting Further Reading and Equipment Recommendations
If you’re eager to delve deeper into the world of smoking on a grill smoker combo or looking to upgrade your equipment, consider these additional resources:
- Books: Explore comprehensive smoking guides and recipe books written by BBQ experts.
- Online Forums: Join BBQ and smoking communities to connect with enthusiasts, share tips, and seek advice.
- Smoker Accessories: Invest in quality accessories like digital thermometers, smoking wood variety packs, and grill mats to enhance your smoking experience.
- Cooking Classes: Enroll in cooking classes or workshops focused on smoking techniques to refine your skills.
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Last updated: December 1, 2023
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