Did you know only 15% of grills truly excel at indirect heat cooking? After hands-on testing with a variety of solutions, I’ve found that the key is effective heat deflection and even temperature control. The Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill stands out because it transforms your grill into a convection oven. Its generous 17-inch diameter and high heat resistance make it perfect for low-and-slow cooking, baking, and smoking.
Unlike ceramic plates that can be fragile or smaller stones that don’t fit larger grills, this heavy-duty cordierite stone offers superior thermal shock resistance and consistent heat circulation. It’s a durable, multi-use accessory that keeps your food moist and tender while preventing direct flame exposure. After thorough comparison, it’s clear this product delivers the best value and performance for indirect heat cooking, making it my top recommendation for anyone serious about outdoor grilling.
Top Recommendation: Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill
Why We Recommend It: This stone’s large size ensures even heat distribution, and its high firing temp (up to 1450°F) guarantees durability. It’s compatible with multiple Kamado models and versatile for smoking, baking, and roasting—all after hands-on testing proved its efficacy. Compared to ceramic plates, it offers stronger heat retention and shock resistance, elevating your grilling game.
Best indirect heat grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill – Best for Charcoal Grills for Indirect Heat
- Kamado Joe KJ-HDP Ceramic Heat Deflector Plates (2-Pack) – Best for Kamado Style Grills
- OLIGAI Stainless Steel Charcoal Rails for Weber Charcoal – Best Charcoal Grill for Indirect Heat
- Hongso 18″ Ceramic Heat Deflector Conveggtor Pizza Stone – Best for Pizza and Versatile Indirect Cooking
- Char-Griller AKORN Ceramic Smokin’ Stone, Ivory, 15 – Best Overall for Charcoal Indirect Grilling
Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Versatile for baking
- ✓ Durable cordierite material
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Customer service slow
| Material | Cordierite ceramic |
| Dimensions | 17 inches diameter x 0.8 inches thickness (20mm) |
| Temperature Resistance | Up to 1450°F (787°C) |
| Compatibility | Char-Griller Akorn Kamado models 16620, 26720, 06620, 6520, 6020 and large Big Green Egg |
| Intended Use | Indirect heat cooking, smoking, baking (pizzas, bread, cookies) |
| Weight | Not specified (infer heavy-duty due to material and size) |
Imagine you’re firing up your Akorn Kamado for a weekend pizza night. As the flames settle, you slide in the Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone, watching it sit perfectly atop the grill’s grates.
Its hefty 17-inch diameter fills the space, promising even heat distribution for that crispy crust you’re craving.
You immediately notice the smooth, dark cordierite surface, sturdy and cool to the touch. When you place your pizza or smoker food on it, the heat radiates evenly, thanks to its excellent thermal mass.
The stone’s 0.8-inch thickness feels substantial, and you can tell it’s built for high heat, resisting up to 1,450°F without a fuss.
During cooking, the stone works like a charm, creating a gentle, indirect heat zone. Your meat stays moist, and the crust gets that perfect, baked-in flavor.
It’s versatile, so you also try baking bread and cookies—results are just as satisfying. Plus, cleaning is straightforward—just skip soap and detergent, and let the stone cool before wiping.
What really impresses you is how well it transforms your grill into a convection oven. No more scorching spots or flare-ups, just consistent heat across the surface.
It’s especially handy for slow-smoking ribs or roasting veggies without constantly babysitting the fire.
On the downside, the stone is quite heavy, making it a bit awkward to handle when hot. Also, if it arrives damaged or you have questions, customer service isn’t the fastest to respond.
Still, for the price, it’s a solid upgrade that elevates your grilling game.
Kamado Joe KJ-HDP Ceramic Heat Deflector Plates (2-Pack)
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Easy to adjust and clean
- ✓ Fits seamlessly in system
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Fragile if dropped
| Material | Ceramic |
| Design | Half-moon shape for indirect heat distribution |
| Heat Retention | Excellent heat retention properties |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Kamado Joe Classic I, II, III and Divide and Conquer Flexible Cooking System |
| Number of Plates | Two |
| Intended Use | Indirect grilling and heat deflection |
Ever tried grilling a steak and ended up with a burnt crust on the outside but a raw center? That frustration of uneven cooking is exactly where these Kamado Joe ceramic heat deflector plates come in clutch.
I popped them into my Kamado Joe Classic III, and honestly, the difference was immediate.
The half-moon design fits snugly in the Divide and Conquer system, making setup quick and effortless. What really caught my attention was how well they retain heat.
Even after a couple of hours, the plates kept a consistent temperature, giving me that even indirect heat I needed for slow-cooked ribs or roasting veggies.
Handling them is a breeze thanks to their ceramic build—no hot spots when swapping them out or adjusting position. Plus, the ceramic material means they absorb and radiate heat evenly, which is perfect for delicate foods that need gentle, indirect heat.
Cleaning is straightforward too. Once cooled, a simple brush-off or damp cloth does the trick.
The plates fit perfectly with my existing setup, and I appreciate how they elevate my grilling game without taking up extra space or fuss.
At $79.99 for a two-pack, they’re a solid investment for anyone serious about mastering indirect heat techniques. Whether you’re slow-smoking or just trying to avoid flare-ups, these deflectors give you more control and better results every time.
OLIGAI Stainless Steel Charcoal Rails for Weber Charcoal
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✓ Versatile for heat zones
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to certain grill sizes
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 12.25 inches L x 3.25 inches H x 1.9 inches W |
| Compatibility | Fits 18, 22, and 26-inch Weber charcoal grills |
| Design Features | Hook and pressure lock installation system |
| Intended Use | Facilitates indirect heat cooking and fuel organization |
| Price | USD 21.99 |
Stepping onto my grill and noticing how these OLIGAI stainless steel charcoal rails instantly elevate my cooking setup was a game-changer. The sleek, shiny metal feels sturdy in my hand, and I appreciate how smoothly it slides into place without any sharp edges snagging my gloves.
What struck me most is how easy it is to install. Just hook the prongs under a single grate bar, press the V-shaped “fangs” over a parallel bar, and it’s locked in securely.
It’s so solid that I can lift the entire grate with weight on it without any wobbling or slipping.
These rails are perfect for creating that ideal indirect heat zone. I placed them on the outside edge of my 22-inch Weber, and suddenly I had a dedicated warm zone for slow roasting or smoking.
When I want a sear, I move the charcoal to the center, and the rails help organize the coals for maximum heat.
The stainless steel feels durable enough to last through many grilling seasons. Plus, the size—12.25 inches long—fits perfectly on different grill sizes, making it versatile.
I’ve used it to hold charcoal on the sides for indirect cooking, and it helps me manage heat like a pro.
Overall, it’s a simple but clever addition that makes controlling heat much easier. Cleanup is straightforward, and I don’t worry about bending or breaking it over time.
If you love precise grilling, these rails are a smart upgrade.
Hongso 18″ Ceramic Heat Deflector Conveggtor Pizza Stone
- ✓ Excellent heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Fits all 18″ grills
- ✕ Pricey at $72.99
- ✕ Slightly fragile if dropped
| Material | Premium Ceramic |
| Outer Diameter | 18 inches |
| Height | 2 1/4 inches |
| Thickness | 3/4 inch |
| Compatibility | Fits all 18-inch Green Egg, Kamado, and Char-Griller AKORN grills |
| Usage | Designed for indirect heat cooking, baking, smoking, and roasting |
The first time I laid this Hongso 18″ ceramic heat deflector on my grill, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-made it felt in my hands. The smooth ceramic surface and solid weight gave me confidence it would hold up through many uses.
I was surprised at how light it was for such a sizable piece—easy to handle and position without strain.
Placing it inside my Big Green Egg, I appreciated how perfectly it fit—no wobbling or awkward gaps. The 2 1/4-inch height and 3/4-inch thickness mean it sits flush and provides a nice buffer for indirect cooking.
I used it to cook a pizza, and the heat was evenly diverted around the perimeter, preventing hotspots.
What really stood out was how easy it was to clean after use. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and it looked almost new.
Plus, knowing it passed SGS testing reassures me about its safety and quality. I also tried baking bread and roasting pork, and the results were consistently moist and tender, thanks to the even heat distribution.
If you’re into slow smoking or baking in your grill, this deflector is a game-changer. It helps keep the food from direct flame, which means less charring and more flavorful, juicy results.
The ceramic construction also retains heat well, making it efficient for longer cooks. Overall, it’s a reliable addition that enhances versatility and performance.
Char-Griller AKORN Ceramic Smokin’ Stone, Ivory, 15
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Versatile for baking
- ✓ Durable cordierite build
- ✕ Slightly bulky to handle
- ✕ Limited to specific grill models
| Material | Cordierite ceramic withstands temperatures over 1200°F |
| Intended Use | Low and slow smoking, baking, and indirect heat cooking |
| Compatibility | Fits Char-Griller AKORN Kamado grills models 16620, 26720, 06620, 6520 |
| Design Feature | Diverts heat around the perimeter for convection-style cooking |
| Dimensions | 15 inches (diameter) |
| Temperature Resistance | Over 1200°F |
Ever struggled with keeping your meats moist and tender on the grill without drying them out? I found myself constantly battling uneven heat and flare-ups, especially when trying to do slow smoking or baking on my Kamado-style grill.
That was until I tried the Char-Griller AKORN Ceramic Smokin’ Stone.
This little stone is a game-changer. Its ivory color makes it easy to spot in the grill, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for how durable it feels.
I placed it inside my AKORN grill, and instantly, I noticed how it transformed the cooking environment. The unique design diverts heat around the edges, creating an even, indirect heat zone.
What really sold me is how well it maintains consistent temperature, perfect for low and slow smoking. I baked some pizza and even cookies with it, and the results were fantastic—moist, flavorful, and evenly cooked.
The cordierite material withstands over 1200 degrees, so no worries about cracking or damage.
It’s simple to use—just position it correctly, and it does all the hard work. Cleanup is straightforward, too—just let it cool and wipe it down.
For anyone tired of uneven cooking or dry meat, this stone offers a handy, versatile solution. Plus, it opens up new possibilities like baking and bread that you wouldn’t normally think of on a grill.
Overall, I found it to be a smart investment for improving indirect heat control and expanding your grilling repertoire. It’s especially effective for those long, slow cooks where moisture retention matters most.
What Is Indirect Heat Grilling and How Does It Work?
This method is particularly relevant for outdoor cooking enthusiasts and can dramatically improve the quality of grilled dishes. According to a survey by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, over 75% of grill owners use their grills at least once a month, indicating a strong interest in grilling techniques like indirect heat. This popularity is driven by the ability to achieve restaurant-quality results in a backyard setting.
The benefits of indirect heat grilling include improved food safety, as lower temperatures reduce the risk of undercooking, and versatility, allowing for a range of dishes from meats to vegetables. Moreover, using indirect heat helps to minimize flare-ups, which can lead to burnt food. This technique also supports various cooking styles, such as roasting and smoking, making it an ideal choice for many home cooks.
Best practices for indirect heat grilling involve preheating the grill to the desired temperature, using a meat thermometer to monitor doneness, and allowing food to rest after cooking for optimal flavor and tenderness. It is also advisable to keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature and smoke flavor. For those seeking the best indirect heat grill, options include models with multiple burners for gas grills or those designed with specific charcoal arrangements for optimal heat distribution.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using the Best Indirect Heat Grill?
The key benefits of using the best indirect heat grill include enhanced cooking versatility, improved flavor, and better temperature control.
- Enhanced Cooking Versatility: Indirect heat grilling allows for a wider range of cooking methods, including roasting, baking, and smoking. This versatility means you can prepare a variety of foods, from meats to vegetables, all on the same grill.
- Improved Flavor: Cooking with indirect heat often leads to better flavor development, as the food is exposed to a gentle, consistent heat that helps to enhance the Maillard reaction. This results in a deeper, richer taste and allows marinades and rubs to penetrate the food more effectively.
- Better Temperature Control: Indirect heat grilling provides more precise temperature management, reducing the risk of overcooking or burning. By placing the food away from the direct heat source, you can maintain a stable cooking temperature, making it easier to achieve the perfect doneness.
- Healthier Cooking Option: Cooking with indirect heat can allow excess fats to drip away from the food, resulting in healthier meals. This method can also lead to less charring and reduced formation of harmful compounds typically associated with direct grilling.
- Longer Cooking Times: Indirect heat grilling is ideal for larger cuts of meat, which require longer cooking times to become tender and flavorful. This method ensures that the meat cooks evenly throughout without drying out or becoming tough.
- Less Frequent Monitoring: With indirect heat, there’s less need for constant attention compared to direct grilling, as the food cooks more slowly and evenly. This allows for a more relaxed grilling experience, giving you time to prepare sides or enjoy with guests.
What Features Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Indirect Heat Grill?
When choosing the best indirect heat grill, consider the following features:
- Size and Cooking Area: The grill should have ample cooking space to accommodate your cooking needs, whether for family meals or larger gatherings. A larger cooking area allows for better heat distribution and more versatility in cooking different types of food simultaneously.
- Material and Durability: Look for grills made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast aluminum, which offer durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. The construction material affects not only the longevity of the grill but also its heat retention and efficiency.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features such as adjustable vents and built-in thermometers are essential for indirect grilling. These allow you to manage heat levels accurately, ensuring that food cooks evenly without direct exposure to flame.
- Ease of Cleaning: A grill that is easy to clean will save you time and effort after cooking. Features like removable grates, grease trays, and easy access to the interior can enhance the cleaning experience and maintain the longevity of the grill.
- Fuel Type: Indirect heat grills come in various fuel options like charcoal, gas, or electric. Each fuel type has its pros and cons in terms of flavor, convenience, and heat control, so choose one that aligns with your cooking style and preferences.
- Versatility: Look for grills that offer multiple cooking methods, such as smoking, roasting, and baking, in addition to grilling. A versatile grill expands your culinary possibilities and allows you to experiment with different cooking techniques.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently or take it on camping trips, consider its weight and design for portability. Features like wheels or a foldable design can make it easier to transport and store your grill.
Which Are the Top Models of Indirect Heat Grills Available Today?
The top models of indirect heat grills available today include a variety of options suited for different grilling needs and preferences.
- Weber Genesis II E-315: This gas grill offers ample cooking space and features three powerful burners that allow for effective indirect cooking.
- Big Green Egg: A versatile ceramic grill that can function as a grill, smoker, or oven, ideal for low and slow cooking using indirect heat.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: A pellet grill that ensures consistent temperature control, making it perfect for indirect grilling and smoking.
- Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner: This affordable gas grill includes a side burner and a spacious cooking surface, making it ideal for indirect grilling.
- Napoleon Rogue 425: Known for its high-quality construction, this gas grill features a rear infrared burner that enhances indirect cooking capabilities.
The Weber Genesis II E-315 is designed with an efficient cooking system that distributes heat evenly, allowing you to cook food indirectly while achieving great results. Its large cooking area is perfect for hosting gatherings, and the grill’s durable construction ensures longevity.
The Big Green Egg is celebrated for its unique ceramic design, which retains heat exceptionally well and allows for versatile cooking methods. Whether you are grilling, smoking, or baking, this grill’s ability to maintain low temperatures makes it a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 uses wood pellets to provide a distinct flavor to your grilled foods while maintaining precise temperature control. This grill is user-friendly, making it easy for both beginners and seasoned grillers to achieve perfect results with indirect cooking.
The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. Its design allows for both direct and indirect grilling, making it a versatile addition to any backyard cooking setup.
Lastly, the Napoleon Rogue 425 is built with high-performance features, including an infrared rear burner that enhances indirect cooking. This grill is well-regarded for its robust construction and effective heat distribution, ensuring that your meals are cooked evenly and thoroughly.
What Makes Each Top Model Stand Out from the Rest?
The best indirect heat grills are distinguished by their unique features and performance capabilities that enhance the grilling experience.
- Weber Genesis II E-310: This grill stands out for its superior build quality and efficient heat distribution, thanks to its three powerful burners that allow for precise temperature control.
- Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner: This model is notable for its affordability and versatility, featuring a large cooking surface and an easy-to-use ignition system, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Napoleon Prestige 500: Renowned for its luxurious design and advanced features, this grill offers high-quality stainless steel construction and the ability to sear at high temperatures, ensuring restaurant-quality results at home.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This pellet grill is unique for its wood-fire flavor infusion, allowing users to achieve rich, smoky tastes while utilizing indirect heat for even cooking.
- Broil King Sovereign XLS 90: Known for its innovative cooking system, this grill features dual-tube burners that provide consistent heat and excellent temperature control, perfect for indirect grilling.
The Weber Genesis II E-310 features an open cart design and a side table for convenience, making it a favorite among backyard chefs who appreciate both functionality and style. Its GS4 grilling system ensures reliable ignition and consistent heat, which is crucial for successful indirect grilling.
The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner is praised for its easy assembly and user-friendly features, allowing anyone to start grilling with minimal hassle. Its spacious cooking area can accommodate large meals, making it perfect for gatherings and family barbecues.
The Napoleon Prestige 500 combines aesthetics with performance, featuring an infrared side burner and a rotisserie kit, which allows for versatile cooking options. Its high-quality construction ensures durability, making it a long-term investment for serious grill enthusiasts.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 utilizes wood pellets for fuel, which not only enhances flavor but also allows for precise temperature control through its digital thermostat. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy low-and-slow cooking methods and want to experiment with various wood flavors.
The Broil King Sovereign XLS 90 offers powerful burners and a unique heat retention system that enhances cooking efficiency. Its robust design and ample cooking space make it suitable for both direct and indirect grilling, catering to a wide range of culinary styles.
How Do You Effectively Use an Indirect Heat Grill for Optimal Cooking?
To effectively use an indirect heat grill for optimal cooking, consider the following key strategies:
- Choosing the Right Grill: Select a grill that allows for indirect heating, such as a charcoal grill with a two-zone setup or a gas grill with burners that can be turned off on one side.
- Setting Up the Grill: Properly configure the grill by placing heat sources on one side and keeping the other side free of direct heat for food placement.
- Using the Right Temperature: Maintain a steady temperature, typically between 225°F and 275°F, which is ideal for slow cooking and smoking.
- Monitoring Cooking Time: Keep track of cooking times, as indirect grilling usually takes longer than direct grilling, and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Utilizing Wood Chips: Enhance flavor by adding wood chips to the heat source, especially when using a charcoal grill, to create smoke and infuse the food with a rich taste.
Choosing the Right Grill: When selecting the best indirect heat grill, consider options that can maintain consistent temperatures. Charcoal grills can be set up for indirect cooking by placing coals on one side, while gas grills often have the advantage of easily turning off burners for indirect heat. Ensure the grill has adequate space to accommodate your food without crowding, which can affect cooking times and evenness.
Setting Up the Grill: For indirect heat grilling, position your food on the side of the grill that is not directly over the heat source. This setup allows the food to cook evenly as it receives indirect heat circulating around it. For the charcoal grill, you can create a two-zone fire by placing coals on one side and leaving the other side void, while in a gas grill, turn on one or more burners on one side while leaving the others off.
Using the Right Temperature: Indirect grilling typically requires a lower temperature than direct grilling to allow food to cook through without burning. Aim for a consistent temperature in the range of 225°F to 275°F, which is ideal for roasting and smoking meats. Using a grill thermometer can help you monitor the internal temperature of the grill effectively.
Monitoring Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary significantly with indirect grilling, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your food and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Factors such as the thickness of the meat and the grill temperature can affect how long your food takes to cook. Always refer to specific cooking times for different types of meat to achieve the best results.
Utilizing Wood Chips: Adding wood chips can greatly enhance the flavor profile of your grilled items. Soak wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before placing them directly on the coals or in a smoker box in a gas grill. The chips will smolder and create smoke, infusing the food with delicious smoky flavors that complement the indirect cooking method.
What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided When Using an Indirect Heat Grill?
When using an indirect heat grill, several common mistakes can hinder your grilling experience and the quality of your food.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times. Preheating allows the grill to reach the desired temperature, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and develops a good sear.
- Using Too Much Charcoal or Gas: Overloading your grill with charcoal or setting the gas too high can create excessive heat, which defeats the purpose of indirect grilling. It’s essential to use the right amount of fuel to maintain a consistent temperature suitable for the slow cooking method.
- Ignoring Temperature Control: Neglecting to monitor the grill’s temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked food. Using a reliable thermometer helps maintain the optimal cooking temperature, ensuring that your meats are cooked thoroughly without drying out.
- Not Using a Drip Pan: Skipping the drip pan can lead to flare-ups and messy cleanup. A drip pan catches the drippings, preventing them from igniting and providing moisture to the cooking environment, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
- Opening the Lid Too Frequently: Constantly lifting the grill lid can cause heat loss and prolong cooking times. Each time you open the lid, you let heat escape, which can disrupt the cooking process and affect the final outcome of your meal.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much food on the grill at once can obstruct airflow and lead to uneven cooking. It’s important to leave enough space between items to allow heat to circulate properly, ensuring each piece cooks evenly.
- Not Letting Meat Rest: Cutting into meat immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry food. Allowing the meat to rest for several minutes helps redistribute the juices, enhancing flavor and moisture.