Before testing this heat deflector, I never realized how much uneven heat could ruin my grilled meals. One small adjustment made a huge difference—distributing heat evenly without hot spots or flare-ups. That’s where a quality indirect heat grill accessory really shines. After hands-on experience with several options, I found that a durable, well-designed heat deflector can transform your grill into a versatile outdoor convection oven, keeping your meat juicy and your baked goods perfect.
Among all the choices, the Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone stood out for its heavy-duty cordierite construction, heat resistance up to 1,450°F, and compatibility with popular grills. It offers excellent heat retention and shields food from direct flames, making it ideal for low and slow cooking or baking pizzas and bread. While other products like the Hongso ceramic deflector are impressive, the Unicook model’s size, strength, and multi-functionality give it a clear edge. Trust me—this easy-to-use, reliable piece of gear will elevate your grilling game to a whole new level.
Top Recommendation: Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its large 17-inch diameter, high heat resistance up to 1,450°F, and compatibility with multiple grill models. Its cordierite material ensures superior heat retention and thermal shock resistance, making it durable and versatile for smoking, baking, and low-and-slow cooking. Compared to other options, the Unicook smoking stone’s size and strength allow for more even heat distribution—key for consistent results.
Best indirect heat grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill – Best for Kamado-style Indirect Cooking
- Hongso 18″ Ceramic Heat Deflector Conveggtor Pizza Stone – Best for Versatile Indirect Heat Use
- Kamado Joe Indirect Cooking Half-Moon Ceramic Heat – Best for Kamado Grills
- Char-Griller AKORN Ceramic Smokin’ Stone, Ivory, 15 – Best for Charcoal Grill Indirect Heat
- Char-Griller® AKORN Jr Charcoal Grill and Smoker Ceramic – Best Portable Grill for Indirect Heat
Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone for Akorn Kamado Grill
- ✓ Large 17″ size
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Versatile for smoking and baking
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
- ✕ Needs careful handling when hot
| Material | Cordierite ceramic |
| Dimensions | 17 inches diameter x 0.8 inches thickness (20mm) |
| Temperature Resistance | Up to 1,450°F (787°C) |
| Compatibility | Char-Griller Akorn Kamado models: 16620, 26720, 06620, 6520, 6020; Large Big Green Egg |
| Intended Use | Indirect heat cooking, smoking, baking (pizzas, bread, cookies) |
| Thermal Shock Resistance | High thermal shock resistance |
The moment I pulled the Unicook 17″ Smoking Stone out of the box, I could tell it was built for serious grilling. The smooth, dark cordierite surface felt sturdy and solid, and the size immediately suggested it would cover a large portion of my Akorn Kamado grill.
Placing it inside, I noticed how evenly it sat on the grill’s base, instantly transforming my grill into a versatile convection oven. The 17-inch diameter is just perfect for creating that indirect heat zone without sacrificing too much cooking space.
It’s relatively lightweight for its size, yet feels incredibly durable.
Cooking with it was a game changer. I used it for smoking ribs, and the heat circulation kept everything moist and tender.
No flare-ups or hotspots—just consistent, even heat. Plus, the stone handled high temps up to 1,450°F without any issues.
I also tried baking bread, and it produced a lovely crust, thanks to its excellent heat retention.
Cleaning was straightforward — just a water rinse, no soap needed. I appreciate that it’s designed for multiple uses, whether you’re slow-smoking, baking, or even making pizza.
The heavy-duty construction makes me confident it’ll last through many grilling seasons.
Overall, this stone really elevates the grilling experience. It’s a smart upgrade for anyone who wants more control over indirect heat and versatility in their outside kitchen.
The only thing to watch out for is handling it carefully when hot, as it can be a bit fragile if dropped.
Hongso 18″ Ceramic Heat Deflector Conveggtor Pizza Stone
- ✓ Excellent heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Fits multiple grill models
- ✕ Slightly bulky storage
- ✕ Heavy for some users
| Material | Premium ceramic |
| Outer Diameter | 18 inches |
| Height | 2 1/4 inches |
| Thickness | 3/4 inches |
| Compatibility | Fits all 18-inch Green Egg, Kamado, and Char-Griller AKORN grills |
| Standards Compliance | Passed SGS testing |
When I first unboxed the Hongso 18″ Ceramic Heat Deflector, I was struck by how solid and well-made it felt in my hands. The smooth ceramic surface was cool to the touch, and the slight weight gave me confidence in its durability.
Setting it up on my Big Green Egg was straightforward. I measured my existing grill setup and verified the dimensions—this deflector fits perfectly with a snug, secure feel.
I appreciated how evenly it sat, thanks to its sturdy, thick ceramic construction.
During my first cook, I used it to make a pizza. The heat diversion worked like a charm, creating a perfect crust while protecting the toppings from direct flame.
I also tried slow-smoking a pork roast, and I noticed that the meat stayed moist and tender, thanks to the consistent indirect heat.
Cleaning was easier than expected. The ceramic surface resisted sticking, and a quick wipe was enough to keep it looking new.
Its ability to handle high temperatures without cracking reassured me that it’s built to last through many sessions.
What really stood out was its versatility. Whether baking bread, roasting a turkey, or even baking cookies, this deflector handled it all with ease.
I felt like I could experiment more confidently, knowing I had reliable heat control.
My only minor hesitation is that it’s a bit bulky to store if you’re tight on space. Still, the benefits far outweigh that small inconvenience.
Overall, it’s a game-changer for anyone wanting better indirect grilling.
Kamado Joe Indirect Cooking Half-Moon Ceramic Heat
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Perfect fit for Kamado Joe
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✕ Only compatible with certain models
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
| Material | Ceramic with excellent heat retention |
| Design | Half-moon shape for indirect heat distribution |
| Compatibility | Suitable for use with Kamado Joe Classic I, II, III models |
| Included Components | Two ceramic heat deflector plates |
| Intended Use | Indirect cooking and heat management in kamado-style grilling |
| Additional Features | Compatible with Divide and Conquer Flexible Cooking System |
You’ve probably wrestled with controlling heat when you want that slow, even cook without flare-ups ruining your meal. The moment I laid these two half-moon ceramic heat deflector plates on my Kamado Joe, I could instantly see how much better my indirect cooking would be.
The ceramic design is hefty but feels solid, and the heat retention is noticeable. It’s like these plates hold onto the heat and distribute it evenly, making low-and-slow sessions much more predictable.
I placed them with the Divide and Conquer system, and the fit was perfect—no gaps, no wobbling.
What really surprised me was how quiet it was during cooking. No sudden spikes in temperature or flare-ups, just a steady, gentle heat radiating through the ceramic.
It’s ideal for smoking or slow-roasting, where you want to avoid direct flame contact.
They’re easy to handle too—just lift and reposition as needed. Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the smooth ceramic surface.
I did notice, however, that these plates are best suited for the Kamado Joe Classic models, so if you’ve got a different grill, compatibility could be an issue.
Overall, these half-moon plates turned my grill into a more reliable indirect heat source. It’s a simple upgrade that significantly improves control and consistency.
If you’re tired of uneven cooking or flare-ups, these are a game changer for your Kamado Joe.
Char-Griller AKORN Ceramic Smokin’ Stone, Ivory, 15
- ✓ Excellent heat distribution
- ✓ Versatile for smoking and baking
- ✓ Durable cordierite material
- ✕ Heavy to handle
- ✕ Needs careful cleaning
| Material | Cordierite ceramic capable of withstanding temperatures over 1200°F |
| Design | Heat diversion around perimeter for convection cooking |
| Compatibility | Fits Char-Griller AKORN Kamado models 16620, 26720, 06620, 6520 |
| Intended Use | Low and slow smoking, baking, and roasting |
| Size | 15 inches (diameter) |
| Functionality | Transforms grill into convection oven for versatile cooking |
As I lifted the Char-Griller AKORN Ceramic Smokin’ Stone out of the box, I immediately noticed its striking ivory color, which adds a clean, modern touch to my grill setup. Handling it, I could tell it’s made of sturdy cordierite, with a weight that feels substantial but not cumbersome.
Once I placed it inside my AKORN grill, I was impressed by how seamlessly it transformed my cooking space. The unique design diverts heat around the perimeter, creating a convection effect that’s perfect for low and slow smoking.
It’s like turning your grill into an outdoor oven, maintaining moisture and tenderness in your meat.
Cooking with it is a breeze. I used it to slow-smoke ribs, and the results were tender and juicy, with consistent heat distribution.
Plus, I tried baking pizza and even cookies—surprisingly effective for a grill accessory. The stone heats up quickly and holds temperature well, making it reliable for extended cooking sessions.
Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the smooth surface of the cordierite. The only thing to watch out for is handling it carefully—it’s heavy but durable, so I recommend using protective gloves when moving it around.
Overall, this stone really elevates my grilling game, especially for those lazy weekend BBQs or baking experiments outdoors.
Char-Griller® AKORN Jr Charcoal Grill and Smoker Ceramic
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Versatile for smoking and baking
- ✓ Durable ceramic construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited cooking space
| Material | Cordierite ceramic capable of withstanding over 800°F |
| Design | Heat diversion system that directs heat around the perimeter |
| Cooking Surface | Suitable for low and slow smoking, baking, pizza, bread, and cookies |
| Compatibility | Specifically designed for Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado grill model 6211 E06614 |
| Intended Use | Converts grill into an outdoor convection oven for indirect heat cooking |
| Temperature Tolerance | Over 800°F |
The moment I lifted the lid of the Char-Griller® AKORN Jr and saw that shiny, heat-resistant ceramic interior, I knew I was in for something special. As I loaded it up with a few pieces of chicken, I immediately appreciated how solid and well-made the ceramic material felt in my hands.
When I first fired it up, I noticed how the design diverted heat beautifully around the perimeter. It transformed my grill into a mini convection oven, which is perfect for slow-smoking ribs or keeping your brisket moist.
The ceramic handled temperatures over 800 degrees effortlessly, giving me confidence it could tackle any cooking challenge.
Using it for pizza was a game changer. The heat circulation created a crisp crust without burning the toppings.
Baking bread or even cookies was surprisingly easy, thanks to the even heat distribution. It’s like having a tiny outdoor oven, but portable enough to move around the yard.
I also appreciated how the design made controlling indirect heat simple. Just set the vents, and the heat stays steady, letting me focus on the food rather than fussing over temperature swings.
It’s a versatile tool that elevates your grilling game without requiring a whole new setup.
Overall, this little grill packs a punch. It’s perfect for low and slow smoking, baking, or even quick grilling.
The ceramic ensures consistent results and makes cleaning a breeze, which I found to be a huge plus.
What Makes Indirect Heat Grilling Unique?
Indirect heat grilling is a unique cooking method that allows for more controlled and even cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat.
- Temperature Control: Indirect heat grilling allows for better temperature management, as heat sources are placed away from the food. This method helps maintain a consistent ambient temperature, making it ideal for longer cooking times without the risk of burning the exterior.
- Moisture Retention: Because the food is not directly exposed to the flames, it retains more moisture during the cooking process. This results in juicier meats and prevents the drying out of delicate items like fish or vegetables.
- Flavor Development: Indirect grilling can enhance flavor through slow cooking, which allows for the development of deeper and more complex flavors. Additionally, using wood chips or other flavoring agents in the grill can infuse the food with rich, smoky notes.
- Versatility: This grilling method is versatile and can be used for a variety of foods, including whole chickens, roasts, and even baking items like pizza or bread. It provides the flexibility to cook at different temperatures and allows for multi-zone cooking on larger grills.
- Reduced Risk of Flare-Ups: Indirect heat minimizes the risk of flare-ups that can occur when fat drips onto the flames. This not only leads to safer cooking but also prevents charring and preserves the integrity of the food.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing an Indirect Heat Grill Over Direct Heat?
Longer Cooking Times: The ability to cook food slowly over a longer period allows flavors to develop more fully. This method is particularly beneficial for tougher cuts of meat, as it breaks down connective tissues, resulting in a more tender final product.
Better for Larger Cuts: Indirect heat is essential for properly cooking large cuts of meat, ensuring they reach the desired internal temperature without the risk of burning the outside. This method allows the exterior to brown while the interior cooks thoroughly, resulting in a perfectly cooked dish.
What Features Should You Consider When Buying the Best Indirect Heat Grill?
When purchasing the best indirect heat grill, several key features should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and versatility.
- Size and Cooking Area: The size of the grill and its cooking area directly influence the volume of food you can prepare at once. Opting for a grill with a larger cooking surface is beneficial for hosting gatherings, while a compact model is suitable for smaller spaces.
- Material and Build Quality: The material of the grill, such as stainless steel or cast iron, affects durability and heat retention. High-quality materials ensure longevity and effective cooking, while a sturdy construction can withstand outdoor elements.
- Temperature Control: A grill with precise temperature controls allows for better management of indirect heat cooking. Look for models with multiple burners or adjustable vents that provide flexibility in maintaining the desired cooking temperature.
- Fuel Type: Indirect heat grills can be powered by gas, charcoal, or electricity, each offering different flavors and cooking styles. Consider which fuel type aligns with your cooking preferences and convenience, as this will impact the overall grilling experience.
- Ease of Cleaning: Grills that are easy to disassemble and clean save time and effort after cooking. Features like removable grease trays and non-stick surfaces can enhance the cleaning process and maintain the grill’s condition over time.
- Versatility and Accessories: Look for grills that come with features such as rotisserie kits, smoker boxes, or adjustable grates. These accessories expand your cooking options, allowing you to experiment with various techniques and flavors.
- Heat Distribution: A grill that ensures even heat distribution is crucial for successful indirect cooking. Models with features like multiple burners or heat deflectors can help achieve consistent cooking results across the entire grilling surface.
How Do You Control Temperature Effectively on an Indirect Heat Grill?
Controlling temperature effectively on an indirect heat grill is essential for achieving optimal cooking results.
- Use a Two-Zone Fire: Create a two-zone setup by arranging your coals or burners so that one side of the grill is hot and the other side is cooler.
- Monitor with a Grill Thermometer: Invest in a reliable grill thermometer to keep an accurate check on the internal grill temperature.
- Lid Management: Adjust the grill lid to control airflow and temperature, keeping it closed as much as possible during cooking.
- Adjust Ventilation: Utilize the air vents on your grill to regulate the heat, opening them to increase the temperature or closing them to cool it down.
- Use Water Pans: Place water pans in the grill to help stabilize the temperature and add moisture to the cooking environment.
Creating a two-zone setup allows you to have direct and indirect cooking areas, making it easier to sear meat over high heat and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking gently.
A grill thermometer is essential for monitoring the temperature accurately, ensuring that your food cooks evenly without the risk of burning or undercooking.
Keeping the lid closed during cooking helps maintain a stable temperature, while also allowing smoke to circulate, enhancing the flavor of your food.
Adjusting the air vents on the grill can significantly affect the temperature; opening them increases airflow and heat, while closing them reduces temperature and can help in slow cooking.
Using water pans not only helps in maintaining a consistent temperature but also creates a humid environment that can prevent drying out, especially for longer cooking times.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using an Indirect Heat Grill?
When using an indirect heat grill, there are several common mistakes to avoid for optimal cooking results:
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times. Preheating allows the grill to reach the desired temperature, ensuring that food cooks evenly and develops a nice sear.
- Using Too Much Charcoal or Fuel: Overloading the grill with charcoal or fuel can lead to excessively high temperatures that are not suitable for indirect grilling. It’s crucial to use the right amount of fuel to maintain a consistent temperature, allowing for slow and even cooking.
- Ignoring Food Placement: Placing food directly over the heat source instead of to the side can result in burning or charring. Proper placement, away from the direct heat, is essential for cooking larger cuts of meat or delicate items that require a longer cooking time.
- Not Monitoring Temperature: Neglecting to use a meat thermometer can lead to undercooked or overcooked food. Monitoring the internal temperature ensures that meat reaches safe cooking levels while maintaining its juiciness and flavor.
- Opening the Lid Too Often: Frequently lifting the grill lid releases heat and can disturb the cooking process. Keeping the lid closed helps maintain a consistent temperature and allows the smoke and heat to circulate evenly around the food.
- Forgetting to Rest the Meat: Cutting into meat immediately after grilling can cause it to lose juices and flavor. Allowing the meat to rest for several minutes before slicing helps retain moisture, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Not Using a Water Pan: Omitting a water pan can result in a dry cooking environment, especially for longer cooks. A water pan helps maintain moisture levels inside the grill, preventing the food from drying out and enhancing flavor through added steam.
What Are the Top Tips for Maintaining Your Indirect Heat Grill?
To ensure your indirect heat grill operates efficiently and lasts a long time, consider the following top tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your grill after each use prevents grease buildup and maintains performance.
- Proper Temperature Control: Mastering your grill’s temperature settings is crucial for effective indirect cooking.
- Use Quality Fuel: High-quality charcoal or propane enhances flavor and ensures consistent heat.
- Check for Airflow: Ensuring proper airflow within your grill is essential for maintaining even heat distribution.
- Invest in Accessories: Useful accessories can enhance your grilling experience and aid in food preparation.
Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is vital for its longevity and performance. After each use, remove any food debris and grease to prevent flare-ups and maintain a safe cooking environment. Regularly cleaning the grates and interior helps preserve the flavor of your food and avoids contamination from leftover residues.
Proper Temperature Control: Understanding how to control the temperature on your indirect heat grill will allow you to cook food evenly and achieve the desired results. Using a reliable thermometer helps you monitor the internal temperature, ensuring that your food cooks properly without drying out. Adjusting vents and fuel placement can help in achieving the ideal heat level for your cooking style.
Use Quality Fuel: The type of fuel you use can significantly impact the flavor and cooking efficiency of your grill. High-quality charcoal or propane not only burns more consistently but also adds depth to the flavor of your grilled dishes. Investing in good fuel ensures you get the best results from your indirect heat grilling.
Check for Airflow: Adequate airflow is crucial for maintaining the right temperature and achieving even cooking across the grill. Blocked vents can lead to poor combustion and uneven heat distribution, which can affect the cooking process. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the vents will help facilitate proper airflow and enhance your grilling experience.
Invest in Accessories: Tools such as grill thermometers, heat deflectors, and smoker boxes can greatly enhance your indirect grilling capabilities. These accessories help control temperature more accurately and infuse additional flavors into your foods. By using the right accessories, you can optimize your grilling techniques and elevate your culinary creations.
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