Charcoal or Propane? A Really Hot Topic

Out here, we believe grilling isn’t just a way to cook—it’s a way to slow down, gather up the people you love, and make something worth remembering. And whether you're new to the grill or you’ve been cooking over fire since your grandpa first handed you the tongs, one debate still sparks up every summer:

 

Charcoal or propane?

 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but we’ll lay out all the facts so you can pick the method that fits your life best. Because when it comes to good meat, the way you cook it makes all the difference.

 

Flavor:

 

Let’s start with the big one: flavor. Charcoal grilling is known for delivering that deep, smoky taste you just can’t fake. If you're cooking something with fat (like a bone-in ribeye or wagyu burger patties) the drippings hit the coals and create flavorful smoke that wraps around your meat. Charcoal has a way of making your backyard smell like a memory.

 

Winner: Charcoal, end of story.

 

Convenience:

 

Propane wins this round, no question. Twist the knob, press a button, and you’re cooking in under five minutes. Cleanup’s easier too, there’s no ash to deal with, and you don’t have to wait for the coals to burn down.

 

Charcoal requires more time and patience. You’ve got to light it, let it heat up, and tend it a bit. But some folks enjoy that process—the calm before the feast.

 

Winner: Propane wins for speed and simplicity.

 

Heat Control:

 

With propane, you’re in control. You want medium heat? You got it. Two-zone cooking? Easy. With propane, it’s overall easier to time out everything and avoid overcooking.

 

Charcoal gives you high heat, but it takes a bit more finesse to manage. You’ll need to know how to arrange the coals, where the hot spots are, when to vent or flip, and how to create direct and indirect heat zones. It’s not hard, but it’s definitely more hands-on.

 

Winner: Propane for a beginner, but charcoal if you have enough experience.

 

 

Cost:

 

Charcoal grills are typically less expensive upfront, but good charcoal costs more over time, especially if you grill often. Gas grills cost more initially, and propane refills aren’t cheap either, but they’re easier to budget for in the long run. Either way, the real investment is what you’re putting on the grill.

 

Winner: It depends on how often you grill. Occasional grillers might lean charcoal. Regular grillers may find propane more cost-effective.

 

So… Which One’s Better?

 

Truth is, it depends on you. If you’re an occasional griller who enjoys to stop and smell the smoke—charcoal is for you. But if you’re more of a “I want dinner in 30 minutes” kind of person, propane’s hard to beat. It’s fast, reliable, and always ready when you are.

 

Whichever way you lean, just know this: the fire matters, but what you put over it matters more. And we’ve got you covered there. Whether you’re heating up charcoal or twisting the knob on a propane grill, our 100% American meat is made to perform. From bone-in ribeyes, to chicken breasts, steakhouse pork chops, and more, we source only America’s best meat—so you can focus on the moment, the meal, and the folks around your table.