How to Season Your Kettle BBQ: A Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Grilling
If you’ve just unpacked a brand-new kettle BBQ or you’re looking to revive an older one seasoning it properly is one of the best things you can do. Seasoning not only protects your grill from rust but also creates a non-stick cooking surface and enhances the flavor of your food. Think of it as breaking in your barbecue for years of delicious meals.
Whether you're new to kettle grilling or a backyard pro, this guide shows you exactly how to season your kettle BBQ the right way.
Why Seasoning Your Kettle BBQ Matters
Seasoning isn’t just for cast iron pans. Your kettle BBQ benefits in several important ways:
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Prevents rust: A thin layer of oil protects metal surfaces from moisture.
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Creates a non-stick cooking surface: Food won’t stick as easily to oiled grates.
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Burns off manufacturing residue: Removes oils, dust, and coatings from production.
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Improves flavor: A seasoned grill enhances that smoky, charred goodness.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the essentials:
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High-heat cooking oil (canola, grapeseed, or vegetable oil work best)
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Paper towels or a clean cloth
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Heat-resistant gloves
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Charcoal
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BBQ tongs
Step-by-Step: How to Season Your Kettle BBQ
1. Clean the Grill
If it’s brand new, a quick wipe-down is enough. If it’s older, remove debris, ash, or old grease.
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Remove the grates
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Brush off any loose residue
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Wipe interior surfaces with a damp cloth
Make sure everything is dry before moving on.
2. Apply a Thin Coat of Oil
Using a paper towel or cloth, apply a thin, even layer of oil to:
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Cooking grates
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Inside of the lid
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Inside walls of the kettle
Don’t soak it a light sheen is all you need to avoid flare-ups.
3. Fill the BBQ with Charcoal
Add enough charcoal to create a hot fire. You’ll want high heat to bond the oil to the metal.
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Fill about two-thirds of your charcoal grate
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Light it using your preferred method
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Let the charcoal fully ignite until glowing hot
4. Heat the BBQ for 45–60 Minutes
Place the oiled grates back onto the BBQ once the fire is hot.
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Put the lid on
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Open all vents fully
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Let it cook for about an hour
This high heat polymerizes the oil and darkens the metal just like seasoning cast iron.
5. Let the BBQ Cool Down Naturally
Turn off the heat by closing all vents and allow the grill to cool on its own.
When you open it, your grates should look darker with a smooth, semi-glossy finish. That’s the seasoning layer!
Maintenance: Keeping Your BBQ Seasoned
Once it’s seasoned, you can keep it in great shape by:
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Oiling your grates lightly after each use
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Cleaning with a grill brush while still warm
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Doing a deep re-seasoning a few times a year
This ensures your kettle BBQ stays protected, rust-free, and ready for flawless grilling.
