How to Use a Propane Gas Grill

Propane makes great grilling easy!

Did you know that close to 42 million homes in the United States have propane grills?

There are many reasons that propane is such a popular fuel source for grilling. But the main one is that it’s so easy! Just turn on the fuel supply from the cylinder, turn on the igniter, and you’re ready to grill. This speed and ease make propane perfect for grilling everything from quick weeknight dinners to a whole lot of burgers and hot dogs at the big Fourth of July cookout.

Whatever and whenever you’re grilling, rely on Taylor for propane cylinder refills so that you’ll always have enough propane!

Let’s discuss how user-friendly propane elevates your grilling game.

Direct and indirect heat on a propane grill

Propane gives you something charcoal just can’t: precise, instant heat control. Want high heat for searing steaks or low heat for slow-cooked meats like pulled pork? Just turn the dial to raise or lower the temperature.

With a propane grill, you can create individual heat zones or temperature modes for direct or indirect grilling.

Direct grilling is for cooking foods fast at higher temperatures. This setting is for boneless chicken breasts, kebabs, grilled pizza and fish.

Indirect grilling sounds like what it is. The heat isn’t directly under the food but near it to provide gentler heat and slower cooking. Think barbecued chicken and pork shoulder.

And you can do both at the same time! Turn on the burners on one side of the grill. Use that for direct grilling. The other side, where the burners are off, can be used for indirect grilling.

Propane for proper searing

If you’ve ever wondered why steakhouse steaks taste so good, it’s the delicious crust they get on the outside. You don’t need an expensive restaurant range to get that crust. You can put a good sear on steaks, lamb and pork with your propane grill. This is the foundation of good direct grilling, and why the instant and precise temperature control that propane gives is so important. Here’s how you do it:

1. Turn the temperature setting on your propane grill to high.
2. Be patient. The grill has to be fully hot for proper searing. The temperature should be at least 450°. If you don’t have a grill thermometer, test the temperature by holding your hand five inches above the grill. If you can only hold it there for a second or less, the grill is ready.
3. When the grill is hot, put the meat on it and leave it alone for at least a minute before turning it.

The professionals at Taylor can help you choose the right grill for your home in the St. Mary’s County area. Contact us to get started!