Choosing The Right BBQ Cooker

Choosing the right BBQ cooker can feel overwhelming — gas, charcoal, pellet, drum, offset, ceramic… the options seem endless. In this episode, inspired by a recent listener question, we break down how to actually decide which BBQ is right for you. It’s not about chasing trends or buying what someone else owns — it’s about understanding what you want to cook, how involved you want to be in the process, and who you’re cooking for. We explore convenience vs. craft, how the industry has evolved toward ease-of-use, and why learning core cooking methods matters more than the brand stamped on the lid.

🔥 Highlights: Brian’s flat iron steak fajitas (an underrated cut for tenderness and flavor) and Jay’s exploration of wagyu beef tallow.

Check out this week's Grill Coach recommends at TheGrillCoach.com - a simple way to elevate everything from searing steaks to seasoning cast iron.

🎙️ After the Break we dive deep into how to think through your cooker decision the right way. We start by asking what you’re trying to achieve — quick weeknight grilling, low-and-slow barbecue, or a mix of both. We discuss who you’re cooking for and how that affects size and capacity, along with how hands-on you want to be during the cooking process. We talk about how the BBQ industry has shifted toward convenience with new cooker technology, but why mastering fire management and cooking methods will ultimately make you successful on any setup.

We also share our recommendations for beginners and why there’s nothing wrong with owning more than one cooker as your skills grow. Finally, we explain what types of cookers we would choose if we were starting from scratch, based on the kinds of cooks we are and the flavors we love to create.

No matter where you are in your BBQ journey, this episode will help you clarify your goals and invest confidently in the right cooker for your style.

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