Whether you're searing a steak, baking pizza, or roasting vegetables, your outdoor kitchen's grill temperature is the key to nailing that perfect bite. But with so many types of food — and even more types of grills — how do you know what temperature you should be cooking at?

We’re breaking down the ideal grill temperatures for different foods and offering tips on how to manage heat, no matter what kind of outdoor cooking setup you’re working with.

Understanding Grill Zones: Direct vs. Indirect Heat

Before we jump into temperatures, let’s talk about how your grill cooks. Most outdoor kitchens include either a gas grill, a kamado cooker like the Big Green Egg, or a wood-fired pizza oven. All of these use a mix of direct and indirect heat zones:

Direct heat (right over the flame or coals) is ideal for searing and fast cooking.
Indirect heat (off to the side) is better for slower, gentler cooking and smoking.

Smart temperature control often means using both zones strategically.

Best Grill Temperatures by Food Type

Here’s a handy reference guide for cooking temps on your outdoor grill or kamado cooker.

How Do You Know Your Grill Temperature?

Here are a few ways to check your heat — and keep it consistent:

Built-in Thermometers

Most gas grills and kamado cookers come with a dome thermometer. These give a general idea of the internal temperature, but they don’t always reflect the heat at grate level, which is what matters most for your food.

Hand Test (Quick & Dirty)

Hold your hand about 5 inches above the grill grate:

2–4 seconds = High heat
5–6 seconds = Medium heat
7+ seconds = Low heat

(Just don’t burn yourself — we’re all about cooking outdoors, not cooking yourself.)

Use a Grill Surface Thermometer

These sit directly on the cooking grate and give you a true reading of the temperature where your food actually cooks.

Smart Thermometers & Probes

WiFi and Bluetooth meat probes like the Meater or ThermoWorks let you track internal food temp and grill temp in real time from your phone. Super helpful for longer cooks like brisket or ribs.

Pro Tips for Better Temp Control

Let your grill preheat. Give it 10–15 minutes to get fully up to temp before throwing anything on.
Use vents for airflow. On kamado grills or smokers, more airflow = more heat. Close vents slightly for low-and-slow cooking.
Two-zone setup = total control. Even on a gas grill, use one side on high and the other on low or off — it’s the secret to perfect grilling.

Mastering grill temperature isn't just about numbers — it’s about confidence, control, and consistency. Once you learn how your outdoor kitchen appliances behave at different temps, you’ll start to feel the rhythm of the fire and know exactly when to flip, move, or serve.

Whether you’re grilling burgers for the family or firing up a wood oven for a pizza party, the right temperature makes all the difference.

Got questions about your setup or want help choosing the right grill for your outdoor kitchen? Contact us at WWOO Concrete Outdoor Kitchens — we’re always happy to help.

What's the Best Grill Temperature for [X] — And How Do You Know?