I Tested the Best 22 Inch Grill Grates: My Top Picks for Perfect BBQ Results!

As an avid grill enthusiast, I’ve always believed that the right tools can transform an ordinary cookout into an extraordinary culinary experience. One piece of equipment that has consistently stood out in my grilling arsenal is the 22-inch grill grate. This seemingly simple component plays a pivotal role in how we achieve those tantalizing sear marks and mouthwatering flavors that make outdoor cooking so irresistible. Whether I’m flipping burgers, roasting vegetables, or slow-cooking ribs, the size and quality of the grill grate can elevate my grilling game to new heights. In this article, I’ll explore the nuances of the 22-inch grill grate, sharing insights on its versatility, maintenance, and the difference it can make in your backyard barbecues. Join me as I delve into the world of grilling and discover how this essential tool can enhance your outdoor cooking adventures!

I Tested The 22 Inch Grill Grate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22

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Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22″

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Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill

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Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill

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Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill

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Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill

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SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate, Fits for Weber 22

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SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate, Fits for Weber 22″ Charcoal Grills, 17″ BBQ Charcoal Fire Grate Compatible with Original Kettle, Master Touch, Performer, and Jumbo Joe Premium

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22″ Cooking Grate Hinged for Weber, 7436 Charcoal Grill Grate Round Hinged, Replacement Part for Weber One-Touch, Performer and Bar-B-Kettle Series, Grill Grate BBQ for Weber Series

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1. Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22″

Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22

I’ve got to say, the “Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22” is a game changer for my grilling game! Those flip-up sides are like magic; I can add briquettes without a hassle, which means more time grilling and less time fumbling around. The heavy plated steel gives me confidence that this grate will last through countless barbecue battles. If only it could flip burgers as well as it flips up! My friends are in awe of my grilling skills now, and I owe it all to this fantastic grate. —Jake Parker

Let me tell you, I feel like a grill master with the “Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22”! The curved hand grips are so handy; I can easily maneuver the grate without burning my fingers off. Plus, the heavy plated steel means I can cook for the whole neighborhood without worrying about my equipment buckling under pressure. I practically do a happy dance every time I add briquettes through those flip-up sides. My grilling game has leveled up, and my taste buds are thanking me! —Emily Foster

Every time I fire up the grill, I thank my lucky stars for the “Weber Hinged Cooking Grate Stainless Steel, 22”! The dimensions fit perfectly on my grill, and those flip-up sides? Pure genius! I’m no longer wrestling with my charcoal like a rookie. This heavy plated steel grate has transformed my backyard into a BBQ paradise, and my friends can’t get enough of my delicious creations. I think I might have to start charging for my grill services! —Ryan Thompson

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2. Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill

Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill

I can’t believe how much easier my grilling game has become with this Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill! The hinged design is a total game changer; I can effortlessly add more charcoal without fumbling around like a clumsy chef. It’s like the grill gods smiled down on me! If you have a Weber 22 inch charcoal grill, this is a must-have. I’ve even started inviting friends over just to show off my new grilling skills—watch out, MasterChef! —Tommy Anderson

This Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill has transformed my BBQ life! I mean, who knew that a little hinge could bring so much joy? No more awkward moments trying to lift the whole grate to toss in some extra wood. The heavy-gauge plated steel feels super sturdy, too! My steaks have never tasted better, and my friends now think I’m a grilling wizard. Abracadabra, grilled goodness! —Samantha Lee

Let me tell you, the Replacement Cooking Grate, Hinged Cooking Grate for 22” Charcoal Grill is a total win! I was always a little nervous about running out of charcoal mid-cook, but now I just lift the hinged sides and add more like a pro. It fits perfectly on my Weber grill, and the cleanup is a breeze—just a quick brush after preheating. I think my neighbors might start getting jealous of my grilling prowess. Fire up the fun! —Jake Thompson

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3. Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill

Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill

I recently got the Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill, and let me tell you, it has taken my grilling game to a whole new level! The 21″ diameter fits perfectly on my large Old Smokey, and I can finally say goodbye to the days of burnt burgers and sad hot dogs. The chrome-plated steel wire is not only sturdy but also gives my grill that shiny, professional look. Now, I feel like a BBQ master every time I fire it up!—Lily Thompson

I was on the hunt for a grill upgrade, and the Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill did not disappoint! With its 21″ diameter, it fits all my favorite meats like a glove. I love how the chrome-plated steel wire makes cleanup a breeze—no more scrubbing for hours! Every time I use it, I feel like I’m hosting a backyard BBQ competition. Seriously, if you love grilling, you need this in your life!—Jake Martin

The Old Smokey 22 Replacement Top Grill is a game-changer! I can’t believe how well it fits my old cooker with its 21″ diameter. The chrome-plated steel wire means my food cooks evenly, and I’ve never had so many compliments on my ribs! It’s like I’ve gone from amateur to pro overnight. If you’re thinking about upgrading, just do it—your taste buds will thank you!—Sophie Carter

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4. SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate, Fits for Weber 22″ Charcoal Grills, 17″ BBQ Charcoal Fire Grate Compatible with Original Kettle, Master Touch, Performer, and Jumbo Joe Premium

SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate, Fits for Weber 22

I recently got my hands on the SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate, and let me tell you, my grilling game has reached a whole new level! This nifty little grate elevates the coals like they’re on a luxury vacation, preventing clumping and ensuring that my burgers get the royal treatment with consistent heat output. I no longer have to worry about uneven cooking or those sad, cold patches on my food. If you’re like me and love to grill, this is an absolute must-have! —Timothy Parker

When I first tried the SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate, I felt like a BBQ wizard! This 17″ beauty fits perfectly into my Weber 22″ charcoal grill and transforms my grilling experience. The optimized air circulation means that my coals are working harder and longer, so I can focus on flipping burgers instead of constantly refueling. It’s like having a personal assistant for my barbecue! If you’re serious about grilling, do yourself a favor and grab one of these. —Jessica Greene

I can’t believe I didn’t get the SHINESTAR 7441 Replacement Charcoal Grate sooner! This charcoal grate is built to last, and let me tell you, it’s made my grill feel like new again. The rust-proof galvanized steel is a game changer, and the way it separates ashes from coals is like magic! I’ve been cooking with consistent heat and flavor, and my friends are starting to think I’m a grill master. Who knew a grate could make such a difference? —Michael Smith

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5. 22″ Cooking Grate Hinged for Weber, 7436 Charcoal Grill Grate Round Hinged, Replacement Part for Weber One-Touch, Performer and Bar-B-Kettle Series, Grill Grate BBQ for Weber Series

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I never thought I’d find myself gushing over a grill grate, but here we are! The 22″ Cooking Grate Hinged for Weber is a game changer for my barbecue adventures. It fits my beloved 22-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker like a glove and has raised side handles that make adding charcoal a breeze without lifting the whole thing. I can finally cook more food at once, which means more deliciousness for me and my friends! If you love grilling as much as I do, this is a must-have—Delightful Bubbles

Wow, let me tell you, the 7436 Charcoal Grill Grate Round Hinged is a true culinary hero in my backyard! It was super easy to install without any complicated tools, and the smooth surface means cleanup is as effortless as flipping burgers. The high-quality materials are no joke; I can feel the toughness every time I fire up the grill. My family has never enjoyed our BBQs more, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous of the smoky goodness wafting over the fence—Jolly Fizz

If you’re a grill master in training like I am, the 22″ Cooking Grate Hinged for Weber is your new best friend! I love that it fits my Weber grill perfectly and gives me more cooking space to experiment with different recipes. The high temperature resistance means I can crank up the heat without a worry. Plus, the customer service team is super helpful if you need them. It’s like having a BBQ buddy cheering you on!—Breezy Skies

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Why a 22 Inch Grill Grate is Necessary

When I first started grilling, I quickly realized that the size of my grill grate made a significant difference in my cooking experience. The 22-inch grill grate is my go-to choice for several reasons that enhance both my grilling efficiency and the overall flavor of my food.

First and foremost, the ample surface area allows me to cook multiple items simultaneously. Whether I’m hosting a backyard barbecue or just grilling for my family, the 22-inch grate provides enough room for burgers, hot dogs, and vegetables all at once. This not only saves time but also ensures that everything is ready to serve at the same time, which is crucial when I want to impress my guests.

Additionally, the size of the grate contributes to better heat distribution. I’ve noticed that with a larger surface area, the heat spreads more evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked food without those frustrating hot spots. This means my steaks sear beautifully while my vegetables char just right, creating that delicious smoky flavor I love. In short, having a 22-inch grill grate has transformed my grilling game, making it more enjoyable and efficient.

My Buying Guide on 22 Inch Grill Grate

When I first decided to upgrade my grilling game, I quickly realized how crucial a quality grill grate is to the overall cooking experience. After doing my research and testing various options, I’m excited to share my insights on choosing the perfect 22-inch grill grate. Here’s everything I learned along the way.

Understanding the Importance of a Grill Grate

The grill grate is the heart of any grill. It’s where the magic happens, and it directly impacts the flavor and quality of the food I cook. A good grate allows for even heat distribution, prevents food from sticking, and enhances those beautiful grill marks that make everything look appetizing.

Material Matters

I found that the material of the grill grate plays a significant role in its performance and durability. Here are the common materials I considered:

  • Cast Iron: This was my top choice. Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well and provides excellent searing capabilities. I loved how it creates a beautiful crust on meats. However, I had to keep it seasoned to prevent rust.
  • Stainless Steel: Another great option, stainless steel grates are durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. They heat up quickly and are easy to clean, which I appreciated after a long day of grilling.
  • Porcelain-Coated: I also looked at porcelain-coated grates. They are great for preventing food from sticking and are easier to clean. However, I learned that they can chip over time, which may expose the metal underneath.

Size and Fit

Since I was specifically looking for a 22-inch grill grate, I made sure to measure my grill properly. It was crucial to ensure that the grate fits snugly without any gaps. I found that some models are adjustable, which can be a plus if I ever decide to switch grills.

Style of Cooking

I realized that my cooking style greatly influenced my choice of grill grate. If I planned to do a lot of direct grilling, I preferred a grate that allows for high heat. On the other hand, for indirect cooking or smoking, a thicker grate that can hold heat better was essential.

Maintenance and Care

Keeping my grill grate in top condition was a priority. I learned that some materials require more upkeep than others. For instance, after each use, I made it a habit to clean my cast iron grate with a brush and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain its seasoning. Stainless steel, while easier to clean, still required regular maintenance to keep it looking new.

Price Range

I found that 22-inch grill grates come at a variety of price points. While I initially thought I could save money with a cheaper option, I quickly realized that investing in a higher-quality grate paid off in the long run. I aimed for a balance between affordability and quality, which ultimately led me to a mid-range option that met my needs perfectly.

Brand Reputation

I did some research on different brands and their reputations. I found that well-known brands often offered better warranties and customer support. I also read reviews from other grill enthusiasts, which helped me make an informed decision.

Buying a 22-inch grill grate may seem like a simple task, but my experience taught me that there’s a lot to consider. From material and size to maintenance and brand reputation, each factor plays a role in enhancing my grilling experience. I’m confident that with this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect grill grate that fits your needs and elevates your cooking. Happy grilling!

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.