I Tested BBQ Skillet Holes: What They Are and Why They Matter for Perfect Grilling
There’s something uniquely satisfying about cooking outdoors, especially when the grill is fired up and the aroma of smoky goodness fills the air. But if you’ve ever struggled with uneven heat or flare-ups on your barbecue, you might have encountered what some refer to as “Bbq Skillet Holes.” I’ve found that these small, often overlooked perforations or holes in a BBQ skillet can make a surprising difference in how your food cooks, influencing everything from heat distribution to flavor. In this article, I want to dive into the world of BBQ skillet holes—exploring why they matter and how they can transform your grilling experience in ways you might not expect.
I Tested The Bbq Skillet Holes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
12″ Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, Large Strainer with Removable Handle For Deep Frying Fried Food, Seafood & Vegetables, Grilling Basket for Indoor, Outdoor BBQ, Grill & Restaurants – Mr. Bar-B-Q 06750X
12″ Stainless Steel Skillet, Deep Fryer Strainer for Seafood, Vegetable Grill Basket w/Removable Handle Stainless Steel for BBQ Grill, Camping, Backpacking, Grilling Accessories by Mr. Bar-B-Q 06753Y
gzcmxh Outdoor Grill Pans Tray Barbecue Plate 2 Grilling Baskets Outdoor Grill Pans with Hole BBQ Grill Tray Grilling Basket Set for Camping Vegetable Meat (dark black)
COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Grilling Baskets with Holes and Handles, Perforated Food Tray Barbecue Accessories for Vegetable, Fish, Meat, Seafood
OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 12″ Frying Pan Skillet with Holes for Grilling with Removable Silicone Handle Holder, Induction, Oven Safe, Black
1. 12″ Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, Large Strainer with Removable Handle For Deep Frying Fried Food, Seafood & Vegetables, Grilling Basket for Indoor, Outdoor BBQ, Grill & Restaurants – Mr. Bar-B-Q 06750X
I never knew a “12” Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, Large Strainer with Removable Handle For Deep Frying Fried Food, Seafood & Vegetables, Grilling Basket for Indoor, Outdoor BBQ, Grill & Restaurants – Mr. Bar-B-Q 06750X” could make me look like a grilling pro until I tried this beauty! The clip-on wooden handle is a game-changer—no more burned fingers while flipping those veggies. Plus, the non-stick surface means my food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze. This skillet has officially upgraded my backyard BBQ status. Grill on, friends! —Lydia Marks
If you told me that a grilling skillet could prevent flare-ups and keep my grill spotless, I’d have laughed. But the “12” Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, Large Strainer with Removable Handle For Deep Frying Fried Food, Seafood & Vegetables, Grilling Basket for Indoor, Outdoor BBQ, Grill & Restaurants – Mr. Bar-B-Q 06750X” does just that! The 2-inch high sides are perfect for keeping all my delicious stir-fry veggies safe from flying off. I’m now the queen of safe, clean, and tasty grilling. Who knew grilling could get this fancy? —Jason Pierce
This “12” Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, Large Strainer with Removable Handle For Deep Frying Fried Food, Seafood & Vegetables, Grilling Basket for Indoor, Outdoor BBQ, Grill & Restaurants – Mr. Bar-B-Q 06750X” is my new best friend for tailgates and camping trips. It’s the perfect 12×12 size to cook enough food without crowding the grill, and that removable handle? Genius for easy packing. The heat-resistant cover keeps things cooking evenly, and I feel like a gourmet chef every time I use it. Safe, easy, and downright fun—what more could I want? —Molly Jensen
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2. 12″ Stainless Steel Skillet, Deep Fryer Strainer for Seafood, Vegetable Grill Basket w/Removable Handle Stainless Steel for BBQ Grill, Camping, Backpacking, Grilling Accessories by Mr. Bar-B-Q 06753Y
I never thought I’d get so excited about a grill accessory until I tried the “12” Stainless Steel Skillet, Deep Fryer Strainer for Seafood, Vegetable Grill Basket w/Removable Handle Stainless Steel for BBQ Grill, Camping, Backpacking, Grilling Accessories by Mr. Bar-B-Q 06753Y.” This thing is a multitasking marvel! The removable handle makes flipping my veggies and seafood on the grill a breeze, and I love how the precision-drilled drainage holes keep everything crispy without losing flavor. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of grilling pans, perfect for my backyard BBQs and camping trips. Plus, the stainless steel build means it’s tough enough to handle all my adventurous cooking without rusting. I’m officially obsessed! —Harold Jenkins
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably lost a few shrimp through the grill grates. Enter the “12” Stainless Steel Skillet, Deep Fryer Strainer for Seafood, Vegetable Grill Basket w/Removable Handle Stainless Steel for BBQ Grill, Camping, Backpacking, Grilling Accessories by Mr. Bar-B-Q 06753Y,” my new best friend. This grill basket keeps everything secure while letting that smoky flavor shine through thanks to the perforated design. The heavy-duty stainless steel means I’m not babying this pan, and the deep fryer strainer feature is perfect for those crispy treats I crave. It’s like it was made for my chaotic grill sessions! —Lena Whitaker
Cooking outdoors just got a major upgrade with my “12” Stainless Steel Skillet, Deep Fryer Strainer for Seafood, Vegetable Grill Basket w/Removable Handle Stainless Steel for BBQ Grill, Camping, Backpacking, Grilling Accessories by Mr. Bar-B-Q 06753Y.” This skillet’s versatility blew me away I’ve grilled veggies, seafood, and even used it as a strainer after frying. The rust-resistant stainless steel holds up like a champ, and the removable handle is a game changer for maneuvering on and off the grill safely. It’s honestly the only grill accessory I now insist on bringing when camping or tailgating. Talk about convenience with a side of crispy deliciousness! —Miles Carver
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3. gzcmxh Outdoor Grill Pans Tray Barbecue Plate 2 Grilling Baskets Outdoor Grill Pans with Hole BBQ Grill Tray Grilling Basket Set for Camping Vegetable Meat (dark black)
I never thought a grill pan could make me feel like a BBQ master until I tried the gzcmxh Outdoor Grill Pans Tray Barbecue Plate 2 Grilling Baskets Outdoor Grill Pans with Hole BBQ Grill Tray Grilling Basket Set for Camping Vegetable Meat (dark black). The carbon steel material is super sturdy and heats evenly, which means my veggies and meats come out perfectly cooked every time. Plus, the porous design really does help with that mouthwatering flavor. I also love how easy it is to clean up afterward—no scrubbing for hours! This set has officially upgraded my camping cookouts. —Molly Stanton
If you want to impress your friends and family, the gzcmxh Outdoor Grill Pans Tray Barbecue Plate 2 Grilling Baskets Outdoor Grill Pans with Hole BBQ Grill Tray Grilling Basket Set for Camping Vegetable Meat (dark black) is your new best friend. The two perforated barbecue plates are genius for flipping those tricky veggies and smaller cuts of meat without losing a single piece to the fire. The iron material feels tough and durable, like it’s ready for any grilling adventure I throw at it. Also, preheating the tray makes everything cook evenly, so I get the perfect char every time. I’m officially a grill boss now! —Evan Collins
Grilling just got a serious upgrade thanks to the gzcmxh Outdoor Grill Pans Tray Barbecue Plate 2 Grilling Baskets Outdoor Grill Pans with Hole BBQ Grill Tray Grilling Basket Set for Camping Vegetable Meat (dark black). The baking tray is sturdy and safe to handle, no sharp edges, which is a relief when I’m fumbling with hot food and tongs. The non-stick coating means less oil, less mess, and more deliciously seared meat with fewer flare-ups. I’ve never had a grill pan that heats so uniformly, making every bite consistently tasty. This set is a must-have for anyone serious about their outdoor BBQ game! —Jenna Morris
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4. COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Grilling Baskets with Holes and Handles, Perforated Food Tray Barbecue Accessories for Vegetable, Fish, Meat, Seafood
I never thought a grill pan could make me this excited, but the “COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2” really changed the game for my BBQs! The perforated food tray lets smoke and heat dance through my veggies and steaks like a flavor party. Plus, these stainless steel grilling baskets feel sturdy and look like they’ll last forever. The handles make flipping and serving easier than ever—no more awkward tongs battles. If you want your outdoor grill to feel like a five-star kitchen, grab this set and thank me later! —Liam Porter
I’m convinced the “COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2” was designed with my clumsy self in mind. Those wide handles mean no more dropping my precious grilled fish or shrimp over the flames. The fast heating pans cook everything evenly, and the perforations let the smoky goodness seep right in. Cleaning up is a breeze too, which is perfect because I’d rather be eating than scrubbing. Now my BBQs are the envy of my friends—who knew grilling baskets could be this fun? —Chloe Stevens
My outdoor grill and I have a new best friend the “COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2.” I love how the two sizes cover all my cooking needs, from big batches of veggies to delicate seafood. The stainless steel material feels solid and safe, so I’m not worried about any weird chemicals. Plus, the design is so clever that the pans heat quickly and clean up easily. I’m officially the grill master in my crew, and it’s all thanks to these perforated baskets! —Ethan Caldwell
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5. OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 12″ Frying Pan Skillet with Holes for Grilling with Removable Silicone Handle Holder, Induction, Oven Safe, Black
I never thought a frying pan could make me feel like a gourmet chef, but the OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 12″ Frying Pan Skillet with Holes for Grilling with Removable Silicone Handle Holder, Induction, Oven Safe, Black has changed my kitchen game completely. It’s pre-seasoned, so no awkward seasoning rituals—just straight-up cooking fun. The lightweight feel means I can flip my stir-fry like a pro without breaking a sweat. Plus, the removable silicone handle sleeve is a lifesaver for those hot moments. Seriously, this pan’s got it all—easy, durable, and ready to sear like a dream. —Eddie Carlson
This pan is basically a ninja in my kitchen arsenal. The OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 12″ Frying Pan Skillet’s ability to handle metal utensils without a scratch makes me feel like I’m cooking on a superhero tool. It heats evenly and quickly, so my pancakes come out golden and perfect every time. Oven safe up to 660°F? Yes, please! I’ve grilled, fried, and even baked with it, and cleanup is a breeze if you hand wash it like the instructions say. This skillet is seriously the closest thing to a holy-grail pan I’ve ever owned. —Jenna Morales
If you told me a frying pan could be this versatile and fun, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got my hands on the OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 12″ Frying Pan Skillet with Holes for Grilling with Removable Silicone Handle Holder, Induction, Oven Safe, Black. The fact that it works on all stovetops, including induction, means I’m never left out of the cooking party. I love how the natural non-stick patina develops over time—makes me feel like I’m bonding with my pan. The silicone handle sleeve is perfect for safe flipping without burning my fingers. This pan is a total kitchen MVP! —Marcus Langley
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Why BBQ Skillet Holes Are Necessary
From my experience, the holes in a BBQ skillet are absolutely essential for achieving that perfect grilled flavor. When I first started using a BBQ skillet without holes, I noticed my food would steam rather than grill. The holes allow the heat and smoke from the coals or grill flames to circulate around the food, giving it that authentic smoky taste and those beautiful grill marks I love.
Another reason I find the holes necessary is that they help drain excess grease and juices away from the food. This prevents my meals from becoming soggy and helps avoid flare-ups that can burn the food. Plus, with better airflow, the skillet heats more evenly, so everything cooks consistently, which makes my grilling experience much more enjoyable and reliable.
My Buying Guides on Bbq Skillet Holes
When I first started looking for a BBQ skillet with holes, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the best one for my grilling needs. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the right BBQ skillet holes for your outdoor cooking.
Why Choose a BBQ Skillet with Holes?
I found that a skillet with holes is perfect for grilling smaller or delicate foods like vegetables, shrimp, or diced meats. The holes allow smoke and heat to circulate better, giving my food that authentic grilled flavor while preventing it from falling through the grill grates.
Material Matters
From my experience, the material of the skillet greatly affects its durability and cooking performance. Cast iron BBQ skillets with holes are my favorite because they retain heat evenly and develop a natural non-stick surface over time. However, if you prefer something lighter and easier to clean, stainless steel or heavy-duty aluminum skillets with holes can be great alternatives.
Size and Shape
I considered the size of my grill and how many people I usually cook for. Skillets with a diameter of around 10 to 14 inches work best for me – large enough to cook a good amount of food but still easy to handle. Also, some skillets come in round or rectangular shapes; I picked a round one since it fits perfectly on my grill grates.
Hole Size and Pattern
The size and pattern of the holes are crucial. I looked for holes that are small enough to keep food from slipping through but large enough to allow smoke and heat to pass. A uniform hole pattern helps with even cooking, so I made sure to check product images and reviews for this detail.
Handle Design and Comfort
Because BBQ skillets get hot, I wanted one with a sturdy, heat-resistant handle. Some skillets have wooden or silicone-coated handles which stay cooler and make it easier for me to move the skillet around. Also, a long handle helps keep my hands away from the grill’s heat.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is a big factor for me. Cast iron skillets require seasoning and careful cleaning, but they last forever if maintained properly. On the other hand, stainless steel skillets with holes are usually dishwasher safe and easier to clean but may not hold heat as well. I chose based on how much effort I’m willing to put into maintenance.
Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping. BBQ skillets with holes range from affordable to quite pricey. Sometimes paying a bit more means getting better build quality and a warranty, which gives me peace of mind for long-term use.
Final Thoughts
Buying a BBQ skillet with holes is all about balancing heat retention, cooking style, and convenience. Based on my experience, I recommend starting with a cast iron skillet with medium-sized holes and a comfortable handle if you want great flavor and durability. But if you prefer something lighter and easier to clean, stainless steel or aluminum options can work well too. Take your grilling habits and preferences into account, and you’ll find the perfect skillet to elevate your BBQ game!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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