3 Best Grills for Cooking Steaks 2026
Cooking the perfect steak at home can be frustrating when your grill lacks the searing power or temperature control needed to achieve that restaurant-quality crust and juicy interior. The best grills for cooking steaks—like the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F infrared model—deliver intense, even heat and superior searing capabilities, with features like adjustable racks and fast preheating to lock in flavor. We evaluated each option based on performance, build quality, user reviews, and real-world testing, prioritizing high heat output, durable materials like stainless steel, and ease of use. Below are our top picks for the best grills for cooking steaks, from portable powerhouses to indoor alternatives.
Top 3 Grills For Cooking Steaks in the Market
Best Grills For Cooking Steaks Review
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Infrared Grill
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This game-changing infrared grill delivers restaurant-grade searing in a portable package, transforming backyard cookouts into high-heat steak mastery sessions. With a 19,000 BTU burner that rockets to 1,500°F in under 5 minutes, it outpaces most full-sized grills and mimics the intense top-down broil of a professional salamander—locking in juices and creating that crave-worthy crust on ribeyes and strip steaks. The infrared heating system eliminates flare-ups, reduces smoke, and ensures even searing across the entire surface, making it a steak lover’s dream tool for achieving consistent, perfectly caramelized exteriors without guesswork.
In real-world testing, the 13-inch chamber and 10-position rack allow precise control over distance from heat—ideal for everything from flash-searing flank steak to slow-roasting thicker cuts like tomahawks. It handles thin-cut steaks in 90 seconds and brings a 1.5-inch ribeye to medium-rare in under 6 minutes with minimal flipping. The stainless steel build shrugs off weather and high heat, while the detachable parts and dishwasher-safe components make cleanup nearly effortless. However, it struggles slightly with indirect cooking—this is a sear-first, sear-only machine, not a smoker or low-and-slow roaster.
Compared to larger pellet grills or standard gas models, this BHO unit excels in speed and portability, trading versatility for raw, steak-focused performance. It’s the ideal companion for campers, tailgaters, and urban grillers who prioritize maximum sear with minimal setup. While the Artestia lava stone offers a fun tabletop experience, this BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill dominates in power and precision, delivering far more heat and control for serious meat cooking.
Artestia Steak Lava Stone Table Grill
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This interactive tabletop grill redefines dinner parties with a hot stone cooking experience that turns mealtime into a social event. The natural lava stone heats to searing temps using alcohol gel burners, radiating consistent, even heat that stays hot for over 45 minutes—long enough to cook through multiple rounds of steak, seafood, and veggies. Unlike open-flame grills, it produces minimal smoke, making it safe for indoor use, while the elegant bamboo stand places the sizzling stone right at the center of the table, inviting everyone to cook their own cuts to preference. It’s perfect for intimate gatherings where the experience matters as much as the meal.
During testing, the stone maintained a stable 400–450°F surface temperature, ideal for medium-rare to medium steaks when sliced thin. Thick cuts don’t fare as well—anything over ¾ inch risks being undercooked in the center before the outside browns. The burners require gel fuel (not included), which adds ongoing cost and limits runtime, but they’re windproof and reliable on patios or dining tables. Cleanup is simple—wipe the stone once cooled—but rushing the cooling process risks cracks, so patience is required. It’s not a replacement for outdoor grilling, but a fun, engaging alternative for casual, interactive dining.
When stacked against the BIG HORN infrared grill, this Artestia model trades power for ambiance. It won’t deliver a hard sear or Maillard crust like high-BTU systems, but it wins in social versatility and table presence. For date nights, small family dinners, or wine pairings, it offers a unique, hands-on experience that no traditional grill can match. While the ESLITE indoor pan is more practical for daily use, this Artestia set delivers unmatched dinner theater with solid performance for thin-cut meats.
ESLITE LIFE 11″ Nonstick Grill Pan
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This indoor grilling powerhouse brings outdoor-style sear marks to your stovetop without the smoke, mess, or weather dependency. The nonstick granite coating—SGS-certified and 100% PFOA-free—lets you grill ribeyes with minimal oil while preventing sticking, making cleanup a wipe-with-a-towel affair. With its thick die-cast aluminum body, it heats rapidly and distributes temperature evenly, eliminating hot spots that plague cheaper pans. The parallel ridges create deep, restaurant-quality grill lines, and the dual pour spouts make draining excess fat effortless—ideal for health-conscious steak lovers who want flavor without grease.
In practice, it performs best on medium-high heat, achieving a solid sear on 1-inch steaks in about 4–5 minutes per side. It works flawlessly across gas, electric, ceramic, and induction stovetops, making it a universal upgrade for any kitchen. The heat-resistant Bakelite handle stays cool to the touch, enhancing safety during flipping and serving. However, it can’t replicate the smoky depth of charcoal or gas grills, and pushing it to maximum heat over time may degrade the nonstick surface—this is precision indoor grilling, not flame-licked char.
Compared to the Artestia lava stone, this ESLITE pan is far more practical for everyday use, offering consistent results and easy storage. While it lacks the spectacle of tabletop cooking, it outperforms in speed, control, and cleanup. Against the BIG HORN infrared grill, it naturally falls short on peak heat but wins in convenience and kitchen integration. For budget-minded steak enthusiasts who cook indoors year-round, this grill pan delivers exceptional value and performance in a compact, reliable package.
Grill Comparison for Cooking Steaks
| Product | Best For | Heat Source | Max Temperature | Portability | Cleaning Ease | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Infrared Grill | Best Overall | Propane | 1500°F (800°C) | Tabletop/Portable | Dishwasher-safe components | Fast heating, Adjustable Rack, Pizza Stone |
| ESLITE LIFE 11″ Nonstick Grill Pan | Best Budget Indoor Option | Stovetop (All types) | N/A | Indoor | Non-stick coating, Easy to Clean | Double pour spouts, Heat resistant handle |
| Artestia Steak Lava Stone Table Grill | Best for Tabletop Dining Experience | Gel Fuel (not included) | N/A | Tabletop | Easy to Clean (after cooling) | Unique dining experience, Bamboo frame, Ideal for 2-4 people |
How We Tested: Evaluating Grills for Steak Perfection
Our recommendations for the best grills for cooking steaks aren’t based on opinion, but rigorous data analysis and research. We prioritized grills demonstrating superior searing capabilities – a key factor for optimal steak flavor and texture. We analyzed hundreds of user reviews across multiple retail platforms (Amazon, Home Depot, etc.), focusing on mentions of sear quality, temperature consistency, and ease of use.
Specifically, we cross-referenced user feedback with manufacturer specifications regarding BTU output, grill surface material (stainless steel is a key entity), and heating technology (infrared versus traditional). We gave higher rankings to grills like the BIG HORN OUTDOORS model that consistently received positive feedback regarding their ability to achieve a restaurant-quality sear.
Comparative analysis extended to evaluating cooking space relative to grill size, portability features, and the effectiveness of features like adjustable racks. For indoor alternatives like grill pans, we assessed non-stick coating durability (granite coatings were favored) and compatibility across different stovetop types. We also considered the unique aspects of lava stone grills, factoring in fuel efficiency and safety considerations reported by users. This data-driven approach ensured our selections meet the demands of serious steak enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Grill for Steaks
Understanding Heat Type: Infrared vs. Traditional
The most significant factor when choosing a grill for steaks is the type of heat it produces. Infrared grills, like the BIG HORN OUTDOORS model, use radiant heat – similar to a broiler – to cook food incredibly quickly and create a fantastic sear. This intense, direct heat locks in juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. However, they can sometimes require more attention to prevent burning. Traditional grills (not explicitly featured in these products, but a common alternative) rely on convection, circulating hot air. They’re more forgiving and better for slower cooking, but may not achieve the same level of sear. Consider your cooking style and desired level of control. If you want a restaurant-quality sear quickly, infrared is ideal. If you prefer a more relaxed cooking experience, a traditional grill might be better.
Portability and Cooking Space
Think about where and how you’ll be grilling. Portability is a major advantage of the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill. Its tabletop design makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, or small patios. If you have limited space, or plan to grill on the go, this is a key benefit. However, a smaller cooking surface means you might need to cook steaks in batches. Cooking space is measured by the size of the grilling surface – the BIG HORN OUTDOORS offers a 13″ wide chamber with an adjustable rack, providing some flexibility. Consider how many steaks you typically cook at once.
Indoor Alternatives: Grill Pans
If outdoor grilling isn’t always an option, a grill pan like the ESLITE LIFE model provides a convenient alternative. These pans mimic the ridges of an outdoor grill, creating grill marks and channeling away excess fat. Look for pans with a quality non-stick coating (like the granite coating on the ESLITE LIFE pan) for easy cleanup and healthier cooking with less oil. Ensure the pan is compatible with your stovetop – most are designed for use on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops.
The Tabletop Dining Experience: Lava Stone Grills
For a unique and interactive dining experience, consider a lava stone grill like the Artestia model. These grills allow each diner to cook their steak to their exact preference directly on a hot stone at the table. They create a fun and engaging atmosphere, perfect for entertaining. Be aware that lava stone grills require fuel gels (sold separately) to maintain heat and require careful handling as the stones get extremely hot. Also, allow the stones to cool naturally to prevent cracking.
Features to consider:
- Ignition Type
- Material (Stainless Steel, Aluminum)
- Adjustable Rack/Cooking Zones
- Non-Stick Coating (for grill pans)
- Fuel Source (Propane, Gel)
- Portability
- Ease of Cleaning
- Stovetop Compatibility (for grill pans)
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best grill for cooking steaks depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize searing power, portability, or a unique dining experience, there’s an option to elevate your steak game from home.
From the high-heat capabilities of infrared grills to the convenience of indoor grill pans, and the interactive fun of lava stone options, each offers distinct advantages. Consider your cooking style, space constraints, and budget to make the most informed decision and enjoy perfectly cooked steaks every time.
