Grilling vs. Smoking: Understanding the Differences

While both grilling and smoking produce incredibly tasty results and both are outdoor cooking methods that use fire to get results, they're fundamentally different cooking methods that produce distinct results.

Here at Lone Star Grillz, we offer custom grills and smokers. Some of our rigs even allow you to cook both ways. So we want to make sure you understand the full capability of any piece of equipment you purchase from us.

What is the right temperature for grilling vs. smoking?

Grilling uses high, direct heat. You'll typically bring temperatures to 400℉ and above. Cooking goes much faster. You can usually grill up a piece of meat in 15 minutes or so.

Smoking is all about going "low and slow." It takes patience, because you're using indirect heat. You'll try to maintain consistent temperatures that sit between 225℉ and 275℉. Smoking usually takes hours, with the number of hours required depending heavily on the type of meat you use and the results you're trying to achieve.

What are the texture and flavor differences between grilled meat and smoked meat?

Grilling creates a seared exterior and a firm internal texture. If you want rare or medium rare steaks, for example, then grilling is a great way to go. Grilling is also great for cooking thin, tender cuts of meat.

Great foods to grill include:

• Hamburgers
• Steaks
• Chicken breasts
• Vegetables

If you want wood smoke flavor and a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture, then smoking is the way to go. Smoking is a great way to turn large, tough cuts into an incredible meal.

Great foods to smoke include:

• Brisket
• Ribs
• Pork Shoulders
• Whole Chicken

Do smoking and grilling use the same equipment?

No. Grills are open grate cookers that allow you to use direct heat to sear your meat. Smokers are closed units designed to maintain consistent low temperatures. They are meant to hold the smoke inside.

However, Lone Star Grillz does offer combination models that allow you to grill and smoke at will, perfect for those who love both styles of cooking. For example, our "El Patron" model allows you to grill, smoke, bake, sear, rotisserie, or even cook a pizza if you want to.

Find the Perfect Grill or Smoker at Lone Star Grillz

Can you taste that perfect cook already? Are you dreaming of backyard cookouts to remember?

Browse our shop to find the perfect pit, or reach out to our team to get guidance on the right rig for you. We're grilling and smoking enthusiasts too, and we'll be happy to help!