10 Essential Tips for Getting the Most From Your Big Green Egg

The Big Green Egg is more than just a grill—it’s a complete outdoor cooking system. From searing steaks to baking pizzas or slow-smoking brisket, this kamado-style charcoal cooker is built for versatility. To help you make the most of it, we’ve put together 10 helpful tips that every Big Green Egg owner should know. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, these tips will help you get better results—and have more fun doing it.

1. Mastering Temperature Control

Getting familiar with how to control the temperature inside your Egg is key to successful grilling, roasting, or smoking. Use the bottom draft door to manage airflow and heat, and fine-tune it using the top vent. A wide-open draft door increases the temperature quickly, while partially closing it brings the heat down. With a little practice, you’ll be able to dial in the perfect cooking temp every time.

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2. Use High-Quality Lump Charcoal

Fuel matters. Skip the briquettes and opt for natural lump charcoal—it lights faster, burns hotter, and produces less ash. Plus, lump charcoal adds great flavor without any unwanted additives or chemicals. It’s also easier to control the temperature with lump charcoal thanks to its responsiveness to oxygen.

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3. Skip the Lighter Fluid

Avoid lighter fluids—they leave behind a chemical taste. Instead, use natural fire starters like paraffin cubes or an electric charcoal lighter. Lighting the charcoal in multiple spots will help it catch faster and create an even base of heat.

4. Let It Preheat

Like an oven, your Big Green Egg needs a few minutes to preheat. Allow about 10 to 15 minutes for the temperature to stabilize before placing your food on the grill. Preheating helps ensure more even cooking and better searing when it’s time to grill.

5. Take Advantage of EGGcessories

Big Green Egg offers a wide range of accessories (aka “EGGcessories”) that take your cooking to the next level. The convEGGtor, for example, turns your Egg into a convection oven, perfect for low-and-slow barbecue or baking. These tools allow you to expand your menu well beyond grilling.

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6. Add Flavor with Smoking Woods

Enhance your cook with smoking woods like cherry, apple, hickory, or mesquite. Each type delivers its own unique flavor profile. Soak wood chips in water for a longer burn, or use chunks for longer cooking sessions. Always use natural, untreated wood.

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7. Use a Thermometer

Don’t rely on guesswork. A good meat thermometer—especially a digital version—can monitor internal temps and cooking chamber heat at the same time. It’s one of the best ways to ensure your food comes off the Egg perfectly cooked.

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8. Always “Burp” Your Egg

Opening your Egg too quickly when it's hot can cause a backdraft—a sudden flare of heat that can be dangerous. To prevent this, crack the lid a couple inches first to let heat escape slowly. After a second or two, fully open it. Always stand to the side and wear heat-resistant gloves.

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9. Keep It Clean

A clean Egg performs better. After each use, scrape the cooking grid while it’s still warm. Empty ash regularly to improve airflow. Periodically check the gasket seal around the dome and base—if it looks worn, it may be time to replace it.

Learn More About Cleaning and Maintaining Your Big Green Egg

10. Let Your Meat Rest

After cooking, give your food time to rest. This helps the juices redistribute, leading to more flavorful and tender results. Rest steaks for a few minutes and larger cuts like roasts for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.

Shop Big Green Eggs and EGGcessories at The Mad Hatter Online Store

From entry-level setups to advanced grilling gear, The Mad Hatter Online Store has everything you need to master your Big Green Egg. We carry a full line of Big Green Eggs, EGGcessories, charcoal, tools, and more—ready to ship nationwide. Have questions? Our team is here to help you choose the right gear and accessories for your next cookout.

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