Top-Rated Fire Pits for Cooking: Grills, Skewers, and More

Looking for a fire pit that does more than keep you warm? Discover the top-rated fire pits for cooking meals, including models with grills, skewers, grates, and more.

Why a Fire Pit Built for Cooking Is a Game Changer

When I first bought a fire pit, I just wanted something cozy for cool nights. But once I discovered how many fire pits are made for cooking over an open flame, I never looked back. A good cooking fire pit turns your backyard into an outdoor kitchen, perfect for grilling burgers, skewering kebabs, or even making breakfast with a flat top.

Whether you’re cooking over wood, charcoal, or propane, the key is to find a fire pit with the right attachments, stability, and heat control. Below are the best fire pits for cooking that I’ve personally tried or researched extensively—each one offers great value, versatility, and solid customer ratings.

Top-Rated Fire Pits for Cooking: Grills, Skewers, and More

Top Fire Pits for Cooking Outdoors

1. Breeo X Series 24 Smokeless Fire Pit with Outpost Grill

Fuel: Wood
Why I Recommend It: The Outpost Grill accessory lets you adjust the cooking height over an intense, smokeless flame. You can grill, sear, and roast over real hardwood.
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2. BioLite FirePit+ with Grill Grate

Fuel: Wood or Charcoal
Why I Recommend It: It includes a grate for grilling and a built-in fan to control flame intensity. You can even charge your phone while cooking.
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3. Sunnydaze Northland 36-Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate

Fuel: Wood
Why I Recommend It: Comes with a large swivel cooking grate and spark screen. Great for grilling multiple items at once.
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4. Camp Chef Propane Fire Pit with Grill Top Accessory

Fuel: Propane
Why I Recommend It: You can add a grill accessory for burgers, plus enjoy the no-mess of propane. Great for tailgating or RVs.
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5. Solo Stove Yukon with Cast Iron Cooktop (Add-On)

Fuel: Wood
Why I Recommend It: Large flame output plus you can add the Solo Stove Hub + Cast Iron Grill or Griddle top to turn it into a cooking machine.
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What to Look for in a Cooking Fire Pit

If you’re a beginner or just starting to cook outdoors, here are some key features to look for:

Swivel Grates or Adjustable Cooking Racks – Let you manage heat and distance from the flame
Removable Grills or Skewers – Great for clean-up and versatility
Raised Cooking Platforms – Keep food safe from direct flames
Multi-Fuel Capability – Models that allow both wood and charcoal give you more control
Heat Management – Fans, vents, or grates that allow airflow for better control

My Favorite Backyard Meals with a Fire Pit

I’ve cooked all kinds of meals using fire pits—some of my favorites include:

Skewered chicken and vegetables over a rotatable grate
Cast-iron skillet eggs and bacon for a weekend brunch
Fire-roasted corn and potatoes right in the coals
S’mores and grilled peaches for dessert
Thin-crust campfire pizza with a grill top and cast iron pan

Once you get comfortable with the heat, there’s no limit to what you can create outdoors.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a fire pit that can also handle cooking has completely changed how I use my outdoor space. Whether it’s weekday grilling or weekend gatherings, I now use my fire pit way more than I ever thought I would. With the right setup, it becomes more than just a heat source — it becomes the centerpiece of the meal.

Before I found the right fire pit for cooking, I tried using a regular wood-burning pit and balancing a grate over it. Let me tell you — it worked, but it was stressful. No control, uneven cooking, and my burgers kept sliding off. That’s when I realized how important built-in cooking features are.

One thing I highly recommend for anyone starting out is a swivel cooking grate. These allow you to swing the grill over the flames to sear, then swing it out to prevent overcooking. It’s great for multitasking or when your fire is hotter than expected.

I also learned the hard way that not all cooking grates are created equal. Look for chrome-plated or cast iron grates, which last longer and give better grill marks. Thin or cheap metal tends to bend, rust, and make food stick.

If you love kebabs, try a fire pit with skewer slots or adjustable rods. I’ve grilled everything from chicken and pineapple skewers to shrimp and veggie sticks right over the flame — no grill pan needed. It’s a simple upgrade that really expands your outdoor menu.

Some nights I just want to cook one or two things without firing up the big grill. That’s where my compact propane fire pit with a grill top comes in handy. It’s quick to light and just big enough for burgers or breakfast for two.

Cooking on a fire pit also adds a social element to the meal. Everyone gathers around, and it turns dinner into an experience. I’ve had some of my best conversations while flipping sausages and tending flames in the backyard.

I always keep a pair of long grilling tongs and heatproof gloves nearby. When you’re dealing with open flame, safety and control are everything. Trust me, it’s worth investing in the right tools — even for a casual evening cookout.

One thing many people don’t realize is that cooking over wood adds real flavor. I use cherry or applewood logs when I want a slightly sweet, smoky taste. You don’t get that on a gas grill or stovetop, and it’s part of the fire pit cooking charm.

If you want versatility, consider fire pits that support accessory add-ons like a pizza oven insert or griddle plate. These make it easier to cook diverse meals, from flatbreads to pancakes — all on one fire pit.

Another thing I’ve learned is the importance of heat distribution. Some pits have better airflow or double-wall insulation, so the fire burns evenly and food cooks more consistently. If you’ve ever had one side of your steak raw and the other side burned, you know what I mean.

If your space is limited, look for portable cooking fire pits with foldable grates or removable grills. I’ve taken mine camping, tailgating, and even to a friend’s backyard BBQ. The portability makes it way more useful than a built-in outdoor kitchen.

Lastly, if you’re using a wood-burning pit for cooking, make sure to use natural, untreated hardwood. No painted wood, no pressure-treated scraps, and definitely no garbage. Clean hardwood burns hotter, cleaner, and safer for food.

Top-Rated Fire Pits for Cooking: Grills, Skewers, and More