KitchenAid is one of those names that just about everyone knows. We know them for their high quality, but reasonably affordable kitchen appliances.
KitchenAid has stepped out of the kitchen, and has a line of grills that allow you to take your love of cooking, into your backyard or patio. They offer stand-alone grills, outdoor kitchen islands and built-in grills for your backyard kitchen.
Our Top Choice
|
Image |
Product |
Price |
|---|---|---|
|
|
KitchenAid 740-0781 Built-in
BEST CHOICE
|
|
|
KitchenAid 3-Burner
RUNNER UP
|
|
|
KitchenAid 4-Burner Full-Size
VALUE CHOICE
|
The Good
We can’t say too much bad about KitchenAid as a source of kitchen appliances. They’ve really been a leader in kitchen equipment for more than 100 years. So, when it comes to grills and outdoor cooking, KitchenAid is a solid choice.
We like that KitchenAid grills and outdoor appliances are like their regular appliances, they are attractive, and reasonably reliable. They also come in a range of prices, so there’s something for every budget.
For the best options look for KitchenAid grills with a variety of features and 304 stainless steel, side shelves and cabinets.
The Bad
Unfortunately, no matter how much we love KitchenAid, we do have to point out where they falter when it comes to their grills and outdoor cooking equipment. Our biggest concern is that their grills are actually made by Nexgrill Industries.
This company makes a huge range of grills that are sold in many big-box retailers. KitchenAid has given Nexgrill the license to use their name on some of the grills.
This is important to know, because the manufacturing standards that you expect from KitchenAid, are not the same from Nexgrill. Overall Nexgrill products aren’t the greatest, and unfortunately, this lesser quality is passed on in the KitchenAid line.
They’re not terrible grills, however. Frankly, if you’re just the average backyard chef, and you’re looking for a product that is reasonably priced, functional, and more compact in size and weight, then KitchenAid grills are a great option for you.
The KitchenAid line of grills comes with plenty of the same features that other grill lines have, so you aren’t missing out on features. Just be aware that unless you buy at the top of the KitchenAid line, you’ll get a grill built with lower quality materials.
Strengths
- Full featured and Easy to use
- Attractive design and appearance
- Versatile accessories on some models
- Affordable pricing
- Great warranty on burners
Weaknesses
- Poor customer service
- Limited spare parts availability
- All are made in China
- Prone to rusting
- Not as even heating
KitchenAid Grill Features To Consider
KitchenAid has a full line of outdoor grills and cooking appliances. This variability in both options and price point make KitchenAid a great choice for your backyard and patio grilling needs.
The variation in models, means that if you are shopping for a KitchenAid grill, you’ll probably want to have a good understanding of what you are looking for and the features that are best for your culinary needs and your pocket book. Here’s our list of consideration for KitchenAid grills.
Fuel type
- Propane Gas This is the most convenient way to power a gas grill. Install the tank, turn on the gas, and hit the ignitor button. You’re grilling in no time.
- Natural Gas Some of the higher end KitchenAid products can be converted to run on natural gas. If you want to use your home’s natural gas source for your grill, you’ll need to run a gas line to your patio, and then install the converter kit that comes with the grill. Make sure you shop carefully to insure you get a grill that is convertible.
- Charcoal There’s ton of extra effort that goes into cooking with charcoal. However, many backyard chefs swear that charcoal makes everything grilled, taste better. You get a smoky taste, and grilled or seared meat tend to be juicier than gas grilled, because coals get to a higher temperature, which sears in the juices.
Cooking capacity
KitchenAid grills come in sizes ranging from small and portable, to big enough to cook for a large party. Knowing how much grilling space you’ll need is important in finding the right grill for you. If you do entertain groups, you might want to opt for a larger grill. If you need something for tailgating or camping, you’ll love a smaller grill. A good rule of thumb is 100 square inches is enough for one person, so use that as a starting place when you’re shopping.
Secondary cooking space
Some KitchenAid grills come with a secondary cooking surface. This may be a smaller searing surface, a small side burner or a warming area. You’ll want to select the options that you’ll find most useful for your cooking needs.
Grates
There’s not much variability with cooking grates on KitchenAid grills. Almost all of them are equipped with porcelain-coated cast iron grates. These are really a good option since they are able to handle high heat, they’re reasonably non-stick, and they’re easy to clean. The porcelain coating allows them to resist rust, which extends the life of the grates.
Burners
Grill size is generally comparable to the number of burners. Most KitchenAid grills have two to six burners for the main cooking surface. Some have an additional side burner. Multiple burners allow you to create varied cooking zones, so you can cook a couple of different items at the same time. Side burners allow you to sauté or steam veggies, freeing up the main cooking area for meat.
Wheels
When you’re looking at a larger grill, make sure that the KitchenAid model that you select has wheels. All of the larger KitchenAid grills come with all-weather wheels, so you can easily move your grill, to the perfect spot in your yard or patio.
Accessories
KitchenAid has a full line of grill accessories to coordinate with your new grill. Look for a shiny set of tools, a grill cover or even basic replacement parts, to make your grilling experience last longer and be more enjoyable.
Rotisserie
This a great feature if you like slow cooked foods like roasted chickens, leg of lamb or beef roasts. Not all KitchenAid grills come with this feature, so make sure you do your research if a rotisserie is a must have.
Shelves and Storage
Shelves and storage are really handy to have. Most KitchenAid grills come with an attached cart that gives you space for storing your grill tools and propane tank.
6 Best KitchenAid Grills of 2022
1. KitchenAid 740-0781 Built Propane Gas Grill
Why you’ll love this:
We’ll start off this list with an attractive built-in option from KitchenAid. Constructed from durable and great looking stainless steel, this grill is made to handle a variety of weather conditions and still look great. It has 4 burners that put out a whopping 61,000 BTUs of total heat.
The four burner construction is perfect for creating multiple cooking zones, for a variety of foods. The roomy 775 square inch cooking area provides plenty of grilling room for any size party. This KitchenAid grill also features an infrared searing burner for perfectly cooked fish and veggies, and a separate ceramic rotisserie burner.
Angled flame tamers over the main burners control flare ups and create heat that vaporized grease and drippings that bring a smoky flavor to your grilled delights. Combine the flame tamers with the KitchenAid Even-Heat system, and you’ll perfectly cook, anything from steaks to vegetables, without worrying about hot spots or burning.
Convenience features of this grill include the electronic ignition that lights your grill, effortlessly with just the push of a button. And the built in thermometer allows you to easily watch the temperature, for a perfect grilling experience.
This grill also is capable of converting to natural gas. The included conversion kit will allow you to ditch the propane tank and tie directly into your home’s natural gas supply. Our recommendation is to have this work done by a qualified plumber, just to make sure it’s done correctly and is safe.
What We Liked
- Good power and heat control.
- It has a ceramic rotisserie burner.
- Large capacity cooking area.
- Nice searing feature.
What We Didn’t Like
- Requires assembly.
- Durability is not the best.
- Will tend to rust up if not covered.
2. KitchenAid 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Why you’ll love this:
Perhaps you’re looking for a classic sized grill, with just enough space to feed your family. You’ll find that this 3-burner grill from KitchenAid is a great option for you. It’s certainly not the high-end of the KitchenAid line, but it isn’t the bottom of the price range either. For the middle of the road price point, this is a good little grill that will do the job.
The main cooking area of this grill features three 12,000 BTUs for plenty of cooking power for just about anything you can whip up. There is a fourth burner that serves a small side burner that can be used for steaming veggies or making sauces.
This grill does have the space for an optional rotisserie feature. However, the rotisserie parts are sold separately, so that will be an added expense if you are into using that feature for slow cooking meats.
We do think it is important to note that while this is an adequate grill, and it has some nice features, it just isn’t as heavy duty as some of the other KitchenAid options. We did notice in many of the other reviews that this grill is prone to scratching and rusting.
This is mostly cosmetic, and does little to impact the performance of the grill. However, if you want to maintain the good looks of this grill, make sure that you tuck it under an awning or roof, or invest in a durable all-weather cover for added protection. The cabinet is handy for storing grill tools, and will keep your propane tank tucked away.
This grill can also be converted from propane to natural gas. However, like we’ve mentioned previously, make sure that you consult with a professional plumber for this work, so it’s done safely.
What We Liked
- This grill has good heat output.
- Added side burner for pots.
- It has electric continuous ignition.
- More features than most grills at this price point.
What We Didn’t Like
- Thinner steel.
- Grates are prone to rust.
- Rotisserie kit sold separately.
3. KitchenAid 720-0954A Full-Size Propane Gas Grill
Why you’ll love this:
If you’re looking for a full-size, stand-alone grill, this is the KitchenAid model for you. With four burners this grill can put out up to 55,000 BTUs of cooking power. The 697 square inch, main cooking area is big enough to cook for your whole family, plus some.
This KitchenAid grill features their Even-Heat cooking system, so there’s no worries about hot spots. And the angled flame tamers keep flare-ups to a minimum, while also using your food’s natural juices to create a delicious, smoky taste.
The convenience features of this grill that we appreciate are the durable, crack-resistant casters that make moving this grill, easy. The push button electronic ignition is also a great feature. There’s no need for matches to get cooking with this grill. Finally, the stainless steel cabinet provides ample space for all of your grilling tools, so you don’t have to find a place in your kitchen for them.
What We Liked
- A lot of grill for the money.
- It’s equipped with a 15,000 BTUs ceramic searing side burner.
- 10-year burner warranty.
- Can easily be converted to natural gas.
What We Didn’t Like
- Thin exterior metal is prone to corrosion.
- Assembly can be challenging.
- Some issues with flare-ups.
4. KitchenAid 720-0893D 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Why you’ll love this:
If you’re looking for a KitchenAid that has a few more features, but is still affordable, then this would be your answer. This great looking grill has an LED backlit control panel, that makes grilling at night much easier. This is one of the cool features, that makes this grill stand out from others in the KitchenAid line.
This grill has five total burners, three in the main cooking area, and two side burners, one with infrared searing capability and the other for steaming or sautéing. The main cooking surface features stainless steel cooking grates, and the KitchenAid Even-Heat system.
Cooking on the main surface is made safer thanks to the angled flame tamers that keeps flare-ups down and turns natural food juices into smoking flavoring for delicious results.
Like with other KitchenAid grills, this stand-alone grill comes with durable caters that make moving this grill from place to place, a breeze. It also has the upgraded, continuous spark ignition system that makes starting this grill effortless. We also really like that this grill comes with it’s own cover, so you don’t have to worry about it being damaged by rain, wind or snow.
It is also good for us to note that this stand-alone grill is convertible to natural gas, and comes with built-in spaces for the KitchenAid conversion parts. These parts are sold separately from the grill, so if you want to convert to natural gas, you’ll need to plan ahead.
What We Liked
- It features a large cooking area, a side burner, and a searing side burner.
- LED backlit temper glass.
- Can easily be converted to natural gas.
- Cover is included.
What We Didn’t Like
- It needs to be covered when not in use.
- Assembly can be tricky.
- Doesn’t get as hot as wanted.
5. KitchenAid 720-0891G Full-Size Propane Gas Grill
Why you’ll love it:
If you need a grill that is a bit more compact, but doesn’t lack in available cooking power than the 2-burner KitchenAid grill is a great option. This grill has two, 13,000 BTU burners, that provide a perfect amount of heat for cooking everything from thick steaks to seafood and veggies. The Even-Heat cooking system from KitchenAid provides worry-free cooking. There’s no hot or cool spots to cause uneven cooking results.
This tiny version of the KitchenAid grill also features their continuous-spark ignition system, for effortless starting.
We do really like the fold down shelves on this grill. It gives you some extra work space when you need it, but when you’re done, the shelves tuck away so you can move your grill out of the way. This is a great feature for apartment and condo patios.
What we liked
- Compact design perfect for small places.
- It’s foldable side shelves for prepping.
- Retains heat well for even cooking.
- Lightweight, colorful and easily movable.
What we didn’t like
- Drip tray is small.
- No side burner.
- Made in China.
6. KitchenAid 720-0826E 5-Burner Dual Chamber Propane Gas Grill
Why you’ll love it:
The largest of the grills we’ve included from KitchenAid, this 1,057 square inch grill is perfect for entertaining a crowd. This is a stand-alone grill, so it can easily move to any place in your yard or patio that you want it.
Like the other KitchenAid grills that we’ve reviewed, this one also features the Even-Heat system, and angled flame tamers for safe, yet tasty cooking.
This stainless steel grill has an infrared searing burner, and can be fitted with a rotisserie system, that is actually included with this grill. And with a total of 91,000 BTUs, there’s plenty of heat for all of your cooking needs.
The control knobs on this grill allow you to easily adjust from full, high heat to lower temperatures for cooking seafood and veggies.
What we liked
- Huge, versatile and powerful.
- It’s easy to get ignited.
- Rotisserie kit included.
- Burners have a 10-year limited warranty.
What we didn’t like
- The initial assembling of the grill was cumbersome.
- Cart, doors and shelves are thinner metal.
- Prone to flaking and rust.
FINAL VERDICT
KitchenAid has a great line-up of grills that range from small and portable, to 8-burner beasts that are made to feed a crowd. While we really like the diversity in the KitchenAid line, we are underwhelmed by the quality of construction.
This is certainly not what you expect from KitchenAid, but considering that they aren’t making their own grills, it’s probably not a surprise.
We really hoped to see these grills last longer and be manufactured with better quality materials and a more comprehensive warranty. Although, the Kitchenaid grill burners due come with a 10 year warranty.
In the end however, if you’re looking for a good, basic grill at a reasonable price point, a KitchenAid grill is a great option for you.
