7 Underrated Grilling Accessories That Actually Make a Difference

Okay, let’s be real for a second: grilling is one of those things where you don’t think you need all the bells and whistles until you try them. I mean, most of us start with the basics: tongs, a spatula, maybe a decent grill brush. And we get by. But over time, especially if you’re someone who actually enjoys the whole barbecue experience (not just the eating part), you start noticing the small stuff.

Like how annoying it is when veggies fall through the grates. Or how you wish you could keep those juicy ribs warm without charring them into oblivion. That’s where the underrated gear comes in.

Let me introduce you to seven accessories that I believe will really enhance your cookouts. You’ve been grilling for a while or are just starting and wondering if there’s anything out there that might genuinely help.

These are not flimsy techniques. These are enhancements with real deal value. And yes, many of these are available through Trusted BBQ, which helps understand what grillers want.

Grill Mat – Your Veggie Saviour

I’ll start with the one that probably changed the game the most for me. The grill mat.

Do you ever try grilling asparagus? Or shrimp skewers where one piece decides to leap to its doom? Same. A grill mat is this flat, non-stick surface that sits right on your grill grates. It lets you cook delicate items like fish, chopped veggies, and even eggs without worrying about losing half of them to the fire gods.

Trusted BBQ’s version is extra thick and reusable, which is awesome because the cheap ones usually warp after two uses. Also, you still get grill marks through it, which is important if you’re trying to impress.

Portable Charcoal Unit – Not Just for Camping

This one surprised me. I always thought portable grills were just for beach days or camping trips. But having a smaller, portable charcoal unit is genius for weeknight dinners or quick solo cookouts.

Trusted BBQ has one that’s compact but sturdy. I use mine when I don’t feel like firing up the full-sized grill just for a couple of burgers or some kebabs. Plus, it’s way easier to clean. Great for tailgating, too, obviously, but honestly? Even if you’re just in your backyard, this thing earns its keep.

Warming Rack – Because Timing Is Everything

I know I know… warming racks are usually built-in. But hear me out: if your grill doesn’t have one, or it’s tiny and useless, getting an add-on warming rack is 100% worth it.

When you’re juggling steaks, sausages, corn, and buns, having a spot to stash the stuff that’s already done (but still needs to stay warm) is a life-saver. It takes the stress out of having to time everything perfectly.

Trusted BBQ’s rack fits over pretty much any setup and adds an extra layer of “I’ve got this under control” to your grilling game.

Grill Basket – Stop the Veggie Escape

If the grill mat isn’t your thing, or if you want to char your food a little more directly, then a grill basket is the way to go. It’s essentially a metal container with holes that keep your chopped veggies, shrimp, or even diced chicken contained while still allowing the smoky heat to do its thing.

I use mine for fajita veggies all the time. You’re good to go; toss them in with some olive oil and seasonings, then shake the basket a couple of times.

Bonus: It’s way easier to clean than trying to scrape bits of onion off your grill grates.

Rotisserie Kit – The Slow Roast Masterpiece

Alright, this one is for the weekend warriors. If you’ve never tried making a whole chicken or pork roast on a rotisserie, you’re missing out.

It sounds fancy, but really, it’s just a spit that slowly rotates your meat over the flame, giving you even cooking and super juicy results. The trusted BBQ kit is motorized, fits on most grills, and comes with forks that actually hold the meat securely (some cheaper ones spin air, let’s be honest).

Yes, it takes longer. Yes, it’s a bit more involved. But when you carve into that perfectly golden bird, you’ll know it was worth every second.

Thermometer (Which Works)

This might sound basic, but a good digital thermometer is probably the most essential “extra” accessory you can have. I used to wing it. I’d poke the steak, do the finger test, and maybe cut it open (shameful, I know).

Then, I finally got a fast-read digital thermometer, and everything changed. No more guessing. No more undercooked chicken. Trusted BBQ offers a waterproof model with a backlit display, making it extremely easy to use, even at night or when multitasking with a beer in hand.

Grill Light – Because BBQs Don’t Stop at Sunset

Last but not least, the grill light. If you’ve ever grilled after dark and tried to balance your phone flashlight while flipping burgers… you get it.

A clip-on LED grill light is one of those things you don’t know you need until you have it. Trusted BBQ’s model is weather-resistant and rechargeable, and the beam actually covers your entire cooking area, not just a small, dim spotlight.

Perfect for fall evenings, late-night parties, or when you forget how early the sun sets, like in October.

Final Thoughts

So yeah, none of these are essential in the way a spatula or a bag of charcoal is. But that’s kinda the point.

They’re not must-haves for grilling. They’re nice-to-haves that become why didn’t I get this sooner?

Whether you’re a once-a-month backyard burger flipper or someone who hosts a full-on Fourth of July meat feast, these tools make grilling smoother, tastier, and honestly… a lot more fun.

Check out Trusted BBQ collection if you’re curious. They’ve got a solid range, and from my experience, their stuff actually holds up.

Anyway, happy grilling, and may your steak be medium-rare and your corn not fall between the grates.