Bubba Keg Bbq Grill

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is a popular choice among barbecue enthusiasts who want to expand their outdoor cooking repertoire. Known for its unique design and versatile cooking capabilities, this article discusses the features, benefits, operation, various models, and maintenance tips for the Bubba Keg Grill, which rivals the Big Green Egg and Broil King Steel Keg. Additionally, it includes a buying guide and answers to frequently asked questions.

Bubba Keg BBQ Grill Features and Benefits

The Bubba Keg is a hybrid outdoor grill that combines the advantages of traditional kettle grills, ceramic Kamado grills, and the innovative features found in models like the Weber Performer. It features a double-walled steel drum design that allows for both grilling and smoking. The grill is available in two main models, along with options to add a rotisserie and other accessories like grill grates and removable side trays:

– **Keg 20**: Measures 43 x 39 x 26 inches, weighs 130 pounds, and has a total cooking surface of 385 square inches.
– **Keg 15**: Slightly smaller at 32 x 37 x 24 inches, weighs 115 pounds, and offers 227 square inches of cooking surface.

The Keg 20 model is recommended for larger households or gatherings.

| Model | Cooking Surface | Weight (including packaging) |
|———|——————|——————————|
| Keg 20 | 20 inches diameter, 385 square inches | 130 pounds (59 kg) |
| Keg 15 | 15 inches diameter, 227 square inches | 115 pounds (52 kg) |

The double-walled drum design provides the benefits of a ceramic Kamado-style grill, including enhanced heat retention and insulation, while maintaining the ease of cleaning associated with a traditional kettle grill. The insulated double wall allows the grill to retain heat while keeping the outer surface cool to the touch. This design enables it to function as both a high-heat direct grill and a low-heat indirect smoker, reducing fuel consumption by allowing up to 50% less charcoal to be used, making it an efficient choice for tailgating at football games.

The grill features adjustable dampers and an adjustable chimney vent for precise temperature control and natural airflow. Its lid has a unique internal hinge design, which prevents it from taking up extra space when opened and makes it compatible with trailer hitch systems for portability. Additionally, it comes with a removable ash catcher for easy cleanup without the need to move the grill.

The Bubba Keg also offers various accessories sold separately, including a pizza stone and rotisserie, while accommodating Kamado-style accessories such as heat deflectors, pizza stones, and wok rings. It is backed by a three-year limited warranty.

Bubba Keg BBQ Grill Operation

The Bubba Keg can be used for grilling, smoking, or baking, distinguishing it from traditional kettle grills and offering the versatility needed for a true grilling enthusiast. Its base features a large vent and adjustable air intake to facilitate natural airflow, enhancing the cooking process and ensuring the retention of natural moisture in your dishes. The grill operates best using lump charcoal rather than briquettes, as this allows for better temperature control, reduces ash buildup, and enhances the grilling experience, especially when cooking dishes like brisket or steak. To prepare the grill, follow these steps:

1. Fully open the air intake and chimney.
2. Add 1/4 to 1/2 pound of lump charcoal and place a few lighter cubes underneath.
3. Light the charcoal, allowing it to burn for 15 to 20 minutes until fully ignited and covered with white ash.
4. Partially close the chimney and air intake to lower the temperature if necessary. If using the grill as a smoker, add wood chips or chunks at this time.

To set up for smoking, place a 10-pound bag of smoking chips or chunks on top of the lump charcoal, ensuring your cooking abilities shine through in dishes such as pork roast or bacon explosion. Close the air intake and chimney until the temperature reaches between 200 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit, then adjust as needed by opening the chimney and air intake.

Bubba Keg BBQ Grill Types

While there are many outdoor grill options available, the Bubba Keg offers two main models with a few rotisserie options:

– **Bubba Keg 20**: Features a 20-inch diameter cooking surface with a total cooking area of 385 square inches (2.67 square feet) and weighs 130 pounds.
– **Bubba Keg 15**: Has a 15-inch diameter cooking surface with a total cooking area of 227 square inches (1.57 square feet) and weighs 115 pounds.

Both models can be equipped with either a motorized or manual rotisserie kit.

Bubba Keg BBQ Grill Maintenance and Care

The Bubba Keg is designed for easy cleaning, with features like chromed steel and cast iron components that facilitate maintenance. It includes an adjustable chimney vent for temperature control and natural airflow, as well as a unique internal hinge on the lid that prevents obstruction when opened. The grill comes with a removable ash catcher for straightforward cleanup.

To maintain the grill, it should be cleaned after each use, a process simplified by its removable ash catcher and the ability to easily scrub down the grill grates. Scrub the interior with a wire brush while it is hot, and wipe off any food residue using paper towels. If necessary, a grill cleaner can be utilized. Once cooled, empty the charcoal ash, and regularly clean the exterior with warm soapy water.

Bubba Keg BBQ Grill Buying Guide

The retail price of the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill ranges from $600 to $700 for the two main models, making it a competitive choice available at retailers like Home Depot and Amazon. Replacement parts are available on the BubbaKeg.com website, and the grill can also be purchased through Amazon and other major grill retailers, ensuring easy access to consumer reviews and demonstration videos.

Bubba Keg BBQ Grill FAQ

**What type of grill is the Bubba Keg?**
The Bubba Keg is a hybrid charcoal grill that operates using both lump charcoal and wood chips. Its double-wall insulation allows it to function as both a high-heat direct grill and a low-heat indirect smoker.

**What is the difference between kettles and ceramic grills?**
Kettle grills are typically round and have both a top and bottom cooking surface, making them easier to clean and allowing for better airflow. In contrast, ceramic grills are oval with a single cooking surface, distributing heat more evenly and retaining it for longer, but they are generally more challenging to clean.

What Is a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill?

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is a versatile and innovative outdoor cooking equipment designed specifically for grilling enthusiasts who value high-performance cooking and appreciate the advantages of double-walled steel construction.

Constructed from double-walled steel and featuring advanced thermal convection technology, this grill ensures optimal heat retention and airflow for a variety of cooking methods, from carne asada to pollo asada.

Whether you’re tailgating at NFL stadiums or hosting a backyard barbecue, the Bubba Keg is capable of handling everything from brisket to a bacon explosion, making it an essential tool for any serious grilling aficionado.

What Are the Features of a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill?

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill boasts several innovative features that enhance usability and efficiency, making it a favorite among cooking enthusiasts.

Its design includes double-walled steel construction for improved heat retention, adjustable dampers for precise air control, and removable side trays that provide additional cooking and preparation space, making it a true multi-tool in outdoor cooking.

The durable, insulated design ensures the grill maintains an even cooking temperature while using minimal fuel, all while enriching the flavors of your grilled creations.

The adjustable dampers enable users to control the fire with great precision, offering versatility for various cooking techniques, such as smoking or searing.

Additionally, the removable side trays help keep the workspace organized during meal preparation and simplify cleanup.

Compared to traditional grills, the Bubba Keg’s unique construction and functional features deliver superior performance.

How Does a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill Work?

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill utilizes thermal convection and charcoal fuel to achieve high temperatures, resulting in an efficient and flavorful cooking process. Its innovative design ensures even heat distribution, allowing for a range of cooking styles, from slow-cooked brisket to quickly seared steaks, all while preserving the food’s natural moisture.

This effectiveness is largely due to the Bubba Keg’s unique double-walled construction, which retains heat better than many traditional grills. The airflow system is crucial to this process, featuring intake and exhaust dampers that enable users to achieve precise control over temperature and smoking levels, thereby enhancing flavor and ensuring a seamless cooking process.

Properly managing the Bubba Keg’s temperature is akin to the technique used with the Big Green Egg, which operates on similar principles of airflow and insulation, though it lacks the more portable design of the Keg. Together, these elements work harmoniously to provide users with the versatility and confidence to produce restaurant-quality results right in their backyards, a testament to the Bubba Keg’s superior cooking abilities.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill?

There are numerous advantages to using a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill. These grills are versatile, enabling users to grill, smoke, and bake a variety of dishes.

With a Bubba Keg, you can prepare everything from pork roast to carne asada and pollo asada, optimizing the grill’s cooking abilities for diverse recipes. Additionally, they efficiently utilize fuel and maintain high heat retention, making them ideal for tailgating and backyard barbecues, even amidst security people and the hustle of football games.

1. Versatility in Cooking Options

One of the most notable features of the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is its versatility, which offers a cooking option perfect for grill masters eager to experiment with various recipes and techniques.

The Bubba Keg can prepare virtually any type of grilled or barbecued dish, from classic brisket and pork roast to innovative creations like bacon explosions and carne asada.

This grill enables enthusiasts to perfect their grilling skills by achieving ideal char marks and juicy interiors, while also mastering the art of smoking, which infuses dishes with deep, rich flavors, akin to those produced by renowned brands like Keltin and JoeDuke.

For baking enthusiasts, the unique design and precise temperature regulation of the Keg make it an excellent choice for creating pizzas and bread with a crisp crust, further establishing its reputation among cooking equipment.

Popular recipes among Bubba Keg BBQ Grill aficionados include:

• Smoked ribs with hickory wood
• Grilled vegetable skewers drizzled with balsamic glaze
• Baked desserts like peach cobbler
• Grilled carne asada and pollo asada

2. Efficient Fuel Consumption

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is designed to use charcoal efficiently, ensuring that fuel is utilized economically while maximizing heat retention throughout the cooking process. Whether using charcoal fuel or wood chunks, the grill’s insulation and air flow control make it a superior choice for outdoor cooking.

This efficiency allows the cook to save money on fuel and cook for extended periods, making it ideal for slow-roasting large cuts of meat. The double-walled design with insulation minimizes heat loss, enabling the grill to achieve and maintain high cooking temperatures with less fuel.

Additionally, adjustable dampers provide better control over airflow, resulting in improved combustion and reduced charcoal consumption. In contrast to traditional grills that often require constant refueling and experience heat loss due to poorly insulated walls, the Bubba Keg, much like the Big Green Egg, stands out as a leader in fuel economy.

Over time, these operational efficiencies can lead to significant savings, making it an appealing choice for those who wish to enjoy flavorful barbecue without exceeding their budget. The Bubba Keg is available at various retail price points, including at Home Depot and other major retailers.

3. Easy to Clean and Maintain

Cleaning and maintaining the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is easy, which contributes to its appeal among busy grilling enthusiasts who want to minimize the time spent on upkeep. The removable side trays, much like those found on premium models like the Weber Performer, and easy access to the grill grates simplify the cleaning process.

While the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is an impressive piece of equipment, regular maintenance is essential to ensure it performs at its best. This includes addressing any potential issues with the paint job to avoid rust.

To clean the grates, simply remove them and wipe them down with a non-abrasive cleaner to eliminate any grease and food debris. The grill’s durable steel construction helps it retain heat, and its smooth surface makes cleaning easy, as debris is less likely to become stuck.

After each use, it is advisable to heat the grill for a few minutes to burn off any remaining food particles before scrubbing the grates. Using a brush specifically designed for cast iron or chromed steel will help prolong the life of these essential components and keep the grill performing well during grilling season.

Additionally, regularly cleaning the drip pan will prevent unwanted build-up.

4. Durable and Long-lasting

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is designed for durability and long-lasting performance. Constructed from high-quality materials, it can withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking, ensuring reliable performance for years to come.

Its double-walled steel design not only retains heat efficiently but also offers protection against rust and corrosion, significantly enhancing its lifespan compared to competitors like the Broil King Steel Keg and Keltin grills.

While other models may utilize thinner materials that are prone to wear and tear, the solid build of the Bubba Keg enables it to maintain consistent temperatures, resulting in superior cooking results.

This durability ensures that outdoor enthusiasts can depend on their grill for countless gatherings, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values longevity and performance in their grilling experience. Many consumer reviews highlight the grill’s exceptional cooking abilities and versatility.

What Are the Different Types of Bubba Keg BBQ Grills?

The different types of Bubba Keg BBQ Grills include the following:

1. Charcoal Bubba Keg: This version uses charcoal as its fuel source and is favored by traditional barbecue chefs. Cooking with wood or charcoal imparts a unique flavor to the food.
2. Gas Bubba Keg: This variant is powered by gas and is popular among tailgaters and busy grillers. The convenience of gas allows many people to avoid the wait associated with heating a charcoal grill. This model is often seen at NFL stadiums and other large sporting events.

1. Charcoal Bubba Keg BBQ Grill

The Charcoal Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is designed for those who appreciate the traditional taste and experience of charcoal grilling. Built for high heat retention and thermal convection, this grill is ideal for slow-cooking larger cuts of meat, such as brisket or pork roast.

It produces the sought-after smoky flavor that many barbecue enthusiasts prefer and aids in heat management, ensuring more even cooking across all types of food.

Its unique double-walled design minimizes temperature fluctuations, allowing for precise control over cooking conditions. This feature enables users to master various traditional techniques, such as searing steaks and preparing delicate barbecue ribs, all while benefiting from a consistent charcoal fire that is easy to maintain. Also, its high temperature capabilities ensure an excellent sear on meats.

This combination of flavor enhancement and heat retention makes this grill one of the best choices available. It is especially popular among tailgaters who value both performance and portability.

2. Gas Bubba Keg BBQ Grill

The Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is ideal for users who prioritize convenience alongside performance, making it an excellent choice for tailgating and outdoor events. Its trailer hitch receiver bar allows it to be easily transported, adding to its appeal for tailgaters.

This model utilizes gas, which allows for easy ignition and quick adjustments to cooking temperatures. It features built-in thermometer gauges and multiple burner controls, ensuring even heat distribution and a variety of cooking techniques. The gas-powered nature of this model makes it a favored choice for those who grill at football games and other high-energy outdoor events.

Compared to charcoal grills, this gas BBQ grill is easier to use, as it eliminates the lengthy setup and monitoring typically required. Users can effortlessly switch from searing meat to slow cooking, enabling them to enjoy their preferred grilling techniques without the extended wait associated with charcoal. This makes it perfect for enthusiasts looking to prepare bacon explosion or other elaborate dishes.

Additionally, it is easier to clean, allowing users to spend less time on cleanup and more time enjoying their passion for cooking. Many users report positive experiences in consumer reviews on platforms like Amazon.

How to Use a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill?

Bubba Keg BBQ Grills are designed for ease of use, allowing even beginners to set them up with minimal hassle and start cooking quickly.

With just a few simple steps for preparation, lighting, and cooking, these grills can be used to create a variety of dishes, from steak to bacon explosion. For more ideas and demonstration videos, visit BubbaKeg.com.

1. Preparing the Grill

Preparing the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is essential for achieving optimal cooking results and ensuring a successful grilling session.

Begin by checking that the grill grates are clean and free of debris, and then arrange your charcoal or set up the gas supply, depending on your model. Taking a few moments to clean the grill helps prevent unwanted flavors from lingering and promotes even heat distribution.

After scrubbing the grates, it is advisable to preheat the grill for at least 10-15 minutes to eliminate any remaining bacteria and enhance the cooking surface. If you are using charcoal, consider employing the chimney starter technique for an even burn.

If using a gas supply, ensure to check for leaks and verify that the burners are functioning properly. Being meticulous in these initial steps lays the groundwork for a perfectly grilled meal, allowing smoke flavors to flourish while minimizing flare-ups.

2. Lighting the Grill

Lighting the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is straightforward, whether you are using the charcoal or gas model. For charcoal grills, you can utilize a chimney starter or lighter cubes, while the gas model is equipped with a built-in ignition system for instant lighting and heating.

To light the charcoal grill, start by filling the chimney starter with your preferred briquettes or lump charcoal. Place 3-4 lighter cubes underneath the chimney and ignite them. Once the coals are glowing, wait until they turn an even ash-gray color before dumping and spreading them in the grill.

For the gas grill, ensure that the propane tank is securely connected, turn on the gas, and press the ignition button. It is essential to check for gas leaks by applying soapy water to the gas connections; if bubbles form, this indicates a leak.

If you encounter difficulties igniting the grill, double-check your fuel supply and connections to ensure they are secure for proper use and cooking.

3. Cooking on the Grill

Cooking on the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill opens up a world of culinary possibilities, ranging from perfectly searing steaks to slow-roasting larger cuts of meat. Its ability to retain natural moisture in foods enhances flavor, making every dish a hit at gatherings.

By carefully monitoring the temperature and utilizing the adjustable dampers, you can achieve the desired results for various dishes. For example, maintaining an ideal cooking temperature is essential for creating that perfect crust while sealing in the juices.

Employing different techniques, such as indirect grilling for ribs or direct heat for burgers, enhances both flavor and tenderness. In terms of timing, thicker cuts of meat benefit from lower temperatures and longer cooking times, allowing collagen to break down for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Always keep a reliable meat thermometer on hand to ensure that the ideal internal temperatures are reached, transforming any outdoor gathering into a culinary triumph.

How to Clean and Maintain a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill?

Cleaning and maintaining the Bubba Keg BBQ Grill are essential for ensuring safety, longevity, and optimal performance. This includes using a multi-tool for various cleaning tasks and checking the grill regularly for any wear and tear.

This attention to upkeep guarantees that every grilling experience remains as enjoyable as the first.

To keep the grill in excellent working condition, it is important to regularly clean the grill grates and remove ash and debris after each use. Regular maintenance ensures your cooking equipment performs at its best and extends the life of your investment.

1. Cleaning the Grill Grates

Cleaning the grill grates of your Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is essential for maintaining optimal cooking performance and ensuring food safety.

After each use, allow the grates to cool, then scrape them with a grill brush designed for cast iron or chromed steel surfaces.

You will also need a bucket of warm, soapy water, a non-abrasive sponge, and a grill cleaner suitable for your specific grill type. Additionally, regularly checking for any negative aspects like rust spots or loose screws can help maintain your grill’s longevity.

For a deeper clean, after scraping the grill grate, dip the sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the grate to remove any stubborn stains, burnt food particles, or residual barbecue sauce. Additionally, a degreasing solution can be effective for tackling burnt oils, as it penetrates thick oil more effectively. Consider using a multi-tool with chromed steel bristles for additional cleaning abilities.

Be sure to rinse the grill grates thoroughly and dry them completely to prevent rusting.

2. Removing Ash and Debris

Removing ash and debris from your Bubba Keg BBQ Grill is a crucial maintenance step that ensures optimal performance and prevents flare-ups during cooking. Depending on how frequently you use the grill, ash should be removed after each use to maintain proper airflow and heat retention, which is essential for the double-walled steel construction’s thermal convection.

Whenever possible, utilize a small ash vacuum designed for this purpose, as it is efficient, quick, and minimizes mess.

If you choose to wear gloves for hand protection, keep in mind that they may hinder your ability to feel sharp particles and can become dirty quickly. After emptying the ashtray, it is important to conduct a quick inspection of the vents to ensure they are not blocked, as clear vents facilitate good airflow.

Additionally, regularly inspecting the interior of the grill for grease buildup can help prevent smoke and enhance flavor. Establishing a regular cleaning schedule, especially during grilling season, can ensure this important task is consistently performed.

3. Storing the Grill Properly

Proper storage of your Bubba Keg BBQ Grill after use is essential for maintaining its longevity and performance.

First, ensure that the grill is thoroughly cleaned, and if possible, store it with a grill cover to protect it from the elements, especially if it will be kept outdoors. Make use of removable side trays for convenience and to enhance the grill’s portable nature.

It is advisable to place the grill in a dry location, away from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions.

Regularly cleaning the grill grates and interior components after each use helps remove grease and food residue, preventing corrosion and rust buildup.

Additionally, conducting regular checks for any signs of wear and tear allows you to identify maintenance needs early on.

By following these best practices, you can significantly extend the life of your grill.

Where to Buy a Bubba Keg BBQ Grill?

You can find Bubba Keg BBQ Grills at many major retailers and e-commerce platforms that specialize in home improvement equipment. These stores offer competitive retail prices and often run promotional sales or feature demonstration videos to assist consumers in making informed buying decisions. Football games and tailgating events are perfect occasions to showcase the grill’s versatility and outdoor cooking capabilities.

Bubba Keg products are frequently sold at barbecue equipment retail stores or websites popular among grilling enthusiasts. Prices for these grills typically range from $350 to $700, depending on the model and features, including adjustable dampers and high-temperature grilling capabilities.

Customer reviews and ratings on retail websites offer valuable insights into the grills’ performance and durability, and many retailers provide in-store demonstrations of the products.

You can find Bubba Keg Grills at the following locations:

• Home Depot
• Amazon
• Wayfair
• BBQ Guys
• BubbaKeg.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Bubba Keg BBQ grill?

A Bubba Keg BBQ grill is a type of outdoor cooking appliance that uses a charcoal fuel source and features a unique “keg” design for improved heat retention and even cooking.

How does a Bubba Keg BBQ grill differ from other charcoal grills?

Unlike traditional charcoal grills, a Bubba Keg grill is shaped like a beer keg with double-walled insulation, allowing it to maintain a consistent temperature for longer periods of time. This feature is comparable to popular models like the Big Green Egg and Broil King Steel Keg.

Can a Bubba Keg BBQ grill be used for both grilling and smoking?

Yes, the Bubba Keg grill can be used for both grilling and smoking. Its design allows for precise temperature control, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods.

Is the Bubba Keg BBQ grill difficult to clean?

No, the Bubba Keg grill is designed for easy cleaning. The porcelain-coated cooking grates and removable ash pan make it simple to maintain and keep clean. Consider using a multi-tool specifically designed for grill maintenance.

What is the cooking capacity of a Bubba Keg BBQ grill?

The Bubba Keg grill has a cooking surface of 280 square inches, which can accommodate up to 12 burgers or 5-6 steaks at a time. Its design ensures natural moisture retention, making it ideal for cooking brisket, pork roast, or even a bacon explosion.

Can a Bubba Keg BBQ grill be used for camping or tailgating?

Yes, the Bubba Keg grill is a portable and versatile option for outdoor cooking. Its sturdy construction and compact size make it ideal for camping trips, tailgate parties, or as a feature during NFL stadium events.