Outdoor cooking becomes more enjoyable when you have a grill that matches the way you like to prepare food. From fast, high-temperature searing to traditional live-fire cooking, different grill designs offer very different experiences. Outdoor grills can use propane, charcoal, or specialized heating systems, giving home cooks plenty of choices for preparing steaks, burgers, vegetables, seafood, and other meals.
Big Horn Outdoors’ grill collection includes propane infrared steak grills and adjustable-height Santa Maria-style charcoal grills. These options are designed for different cooking preferences, so understanding their fuel sources, heat control, portability, and maintenance requirements can help you choose the right setup for your outdoor cooking area.
Understanding Outdoor Grills
Outdoor grills are available in many shapes and sizes, but the fuel source is one of the most important differences. Propane grills provide convenience and quick temperature control, while a charcoal grill creates the distinctive smoky flavor associated with traditional grilling.
There are also specialized grills designed around particular cooking techniques. An infrared steak grill, for example, is built to produce intense, concentrated heat that can quickly sear the surface of meat. A Santa Maria grill provides a more traditional live-fire experience while allowing the cooking grate to be raised or lowered over the coals.
The best option depends on whether you prioritize speed, flavor, control, portability, or the hands-on experience of cooking over a live fire.
Infrared Steak Grill for High-Temperature Searing
An infrared steak grill is particularly appealing to steak enthusiasts who want intense heat and rapid cooking. Infrared systems transfer heat directly toward the cooking surface, allowing the grill to reach high temperatures suitable for searing.
High heat can create the browned exterior associated with a flavorful steak crust while helping the inside remain juicy when the steak is cooked properly. Because infrared grills can become extremely hot, they require careful temperature management and attention to cooking time.
For the best results, allow the grill to preheat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pat steaks dry before cooking and season them appropriately. Place the steak on the hot cooking surface and avoid constantly moving it. Once a good crust develops, adjust the heat or move the steak to a cooler area if necessary to finish cooking without burning the exterior.
Santa Maria Grill for Traditional Live-Fire Cooking
A Santa Maria grill offers a different approach to outdoor cooking. Originating from the Central Coast of California, the Santa Maria style traditionally uses a wood or charcoal fire beneath an adjustable cooking grate.
The defining feature is the height-adjustable grate. Instead of relying entirely on a temperature dial, the cook can raise or lower the grate to control the intensity of the heat reaching the food.
This design gives cooks considerable flexibility. Lowering the grate brings food closer to the fire for stronger heat and faster cooking, while raising it creates a gentler cooking environment. This makes the grill useful for everything from searing meat to slowly cooking larger cuts.
Santa Maria-style cooking also provides the visual and sensory experience of live-fire grilling, making it an attractive choice for outdoor gatherings.
Charcoal Grill vs. Propane Grill
Choosing between a charcoal grill and a propane grill often comes down to flavor and convenience.
Charcoal grills are popular because burning charcoal can create a distinctive smoky character. They also allow cooks to experiment with direct and indirect heat zones. However, charcoal requires more preparation. You need to light the fuel, allow it to reach the appropriate condition, and manage airflow and fuel throughout the cooking process.
A propane grill is generally quicker and easier to start. Turn on the fuel supply, ignite the burners according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and adjust the controls to reach the desired temperature. This makes propane particularly useful for weeknight meals when you want to start cooking quickly.
Propane also offers precise heat adjustment, while charcoal provides a more traditional live-fire experience.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Fuel choice should reflect your cooking habits. If convenience and repeatable heat are priorities, propane may be the better option. A propane grill is especially useful when you cook frequently and want minimal preparation.
If smoky flavor and traditional grilling are more important, charcoal can be a better fit. A Santa Maria charcoal grill adds another layer of control by allowing you to change the distance between the food and the fire.
For cooks focused specifically on steak, an infrared propane grill can provide the intense heat needed for rapid searing.
Preparing Steak for the Grill
Even the best grill cannot compensate for poor preparation. Start with quality steaks and allow them to reach an appropriate cooking state according to your chosen recipe and food-safety practices.
Pat the surface dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can interfere with browning. Salt, pepper, garlic, and other seasonings can be used according to personal preference.
Preheat the grill before adding the steak. High-heat cooking requires close attention because the surface can brown quickly. A reliable food thermometer is useful for checking internal temperature without repeatedly cutting into the meat.
After cooking, allow the steak to rest for several minutes. This gives the juices time to redistribute before slicing.
Cleaning and Grill Maintenance
Regular cleaning helps keep outdoor grills performing properly. Remove food residue from the cooking surface after the grill has cooled to a safe temperature, following the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.
For propane models, periodically inspect hoses, connections, burners, and other components for signs of wear or damage. For charcoal and Santa Maria grills, remove accumulated ash once everything has cooled completely.
Protect the grill from rain, excessive moisture, and harsh outdoor conditions when possible. A suitable cover can help reduce exposure to the elements and extend the life of the equipment.
Outdoor Operating Conditions
Weather can affect grilling performance. Wind can influence flames and heat distribution, while cold temperatures may increase preheating times. Always position the grill in an appropriate outdoor area with sufficient clearance from buildings, combustible materials, and other hazards.
Never use an outdoor grill inside an enclosed space, garage, tent, or other area where ventilation is inadequate. Follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and local requirements for fuel storage and outdoor cooking.
Final Thoughts
Big Horn Outdoors’ selection of outdoor grills offers options for different cooking styles. A propane infrared steak grill is well suited to quick, high-temperature searing, while a Santa Maria grill provides adjustable-height live-fire cooking with traditional charcoal flavor.
When deciding between a charcoal grill and propane grill, consider how much time you want to spend managing the fire, how important smoky flavor is, and how much temperature control you need. With proper steak preparation, regular cleaning, and attention to outdoor conditions, the right grill can become a versatile centerpiece for everything from quick weeknight dinners to memorable outdoor gatherings.
