How to Start a Charcoal Grill
Get cooking by learning how to start a charcoal grill.
If you want to learn how to start a charcoal grill because you're interested in outdoor cooking, this guide is for you. It will teach you how to start a charcoal grill and how to use a charcoal starter so that you can master the art of cooking the way humans have done for centuries. To learn more about types of grills, check out our buying guide Grilling 101: Types of Grills to Know.
You'll Need:
- Charcoal grill
- Charcoal starter
- Charcoal
- Dry paper (newspaper is a great choice)
- Lighter or matches
- Grilling tongs
Before Starting
Use precaution when working with fire. Keep yourself protected by keeping clothing and hair away from the flame and be sure that nothing easily flammable is located nearby.
Tip!
For extra safety, keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Step 1
Place your charcoal starter on your empty charcoal grill. Remove the bottom grate inside your charcoal starter. Crumple two pieces of dry paper and place them at the bottom. Place the grate back into the grill and pull bits of paper through the grate to make lighting it easier.
Tip!
Be sure to leave enough air flowing through the two pieces of paper to create a stronger fire.
Step 2
Fill the charcoal starter to the top with charcoal. Generally, small, portable grills use about 30 bricks, and larger grills use between 50 and 75 bricks of charcoal. In general, the more charcoal you use, the hotter your fire will burn.
Step 3
Light the bits of dry paper with your lighter and let the charcoals burn for 20 minutes. Check on them regularly to make sure they are still burning. A great sign that they are burning is that you see bits of smoke. When your coals are halfway covered with ash, they are ready to use.
Step 4
Remove the top grate on your charcoal grill. Gently pour the burning charcoals into your grill. Make sure your coals are burning evenly. If not, adjust accordingly.
Step 5
Place the top rate back onto your grill and begin grilling your food.
Now that you know how to start a charcoal grill, shop for one that will be best for your needs. To learn more about how to use a charcoal grill, check out our guide How to Use a Charcoal Grill.
