How to Use a BBQ Basket Grill Like a Pro (And Why You’ll Love It)

A BBQ basket grill is one of the handiest tools for any backyard cookout.

Whether you're grilling vegetables, shrimp, or delicate fish, a grill basket helps keep everything in place.

No more food falling through the grates — and no more flare-ups from oils dripping into the flames.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to use a BBQ basket grill the right way.

You’ll learn what to cook, how to clean it, and why it belongs in your summer grilling gear.

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

What Is a BBQ Basket Grill?

A BBQ basket grill is a metal container, often made of stainless steel or non-stick coated wire.

It sits right on top of your grill grates.

Most baskets have small holes or mesh that allow heat and smoke in, but keep food secure inside.

Some have lids that clamp shut.

Others are open like a tray with high edges.

These baskets are perfect for:

• Grilling chopped vegetables
  
  

• Cooking shrimp, scallops, or cubed meats
  
  

• Making fish without it falling apart
  
  

They come in different shapes and sizes.

Some are long with handles for flipping, while others are square and sit still during cooking.

Why You Should Use a Grill Basket for BBQ

Grill baskets solve one of the biggest problems in BBQ: food falling between the grates.

You can toss, turn, and stir your ingredients without worrying about losing anything.

They're also great for cooking smaller or delicate items.

Think about grilling thin asparagus, sliced zucchini, or marinated mushrooms.

A BBQ basket holds them all together for even cooking.

With a basket, you don’t need skewers or foil.

That means less prep — and a faster path to deliciousness.

You Won’t Want to Miss This: 5 Grill Grate Cleaning Hacks That Will Save Your Day

How to Use a BBQ Basket Grill (Step-by-Step)

• Preheat the Grill: Turn on your BBQ and let it warm up to the desired temp.

• Oil the Basket: Spray or brush a little oil on the inside to prevent sticking.

• Add Your Food: Place your chopped veggies, fish, or meat into the basket.

• Grill as Usual: Set the basket on the grill and close the lid.

• Shake or Flip: Every few minutes, shake the basket or use tongs to stir the food for even cooking.

• Serve and Enjoy!

Tip: Don’t overload the basket. Too much food at once can lead to uneven heat and soggy results.

Best Foods to Cook in a BBQ Basket

Not sure what to try first?

These are top picks for a grill basket:

• Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and squash

• Shrimp or scallops with olive oil and herbs

• Salmon or tilapia fillets

• Cubed chicken or steak for kabob-style meals

For veggies, toss them in a bit of oil and seasoning before they go in.

For fish, a grill basket makes turning easy without breaking the fillets.

Cleaning Your BBQ Basket the Easy Way

After grilling, you’ll probably see some stuck-on bits or grease.

Let your grill basket cool slightly, then scrape off the tough spots before washing.

One of the best ways to clean your grill and basket is with a bristle-free grill scraper, like the one from Easy Function.

It’s safer than traditional wire brushes and works on all types of grates — stainless, porcelain, or cast iron.

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon USA

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon Canada

Using a scraper right after cooking makes cleanup faster and keeps your tools ready for the next BBQ.

BBQ Basket Tips for Best Results

• Preheat the basket with the grill to prevent sticking

• Don’t add sugar-heavy sauces until the end—they burn fast

• Use a basket with a long handle for safer flipping

• Avoid metal tongs on non-stick baskets (they scratch)

• Let the basket cool fully before soaking or scrubbing

The key is to keep things simple.

Season your food, cook it hot, and don’t overthink it.

That’s what makes basket grilling fun and easy.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get a BBQ Basket Grill?

Absolutely. A BBQ basket grill is a small investment that makes a huge difference.

You’ll cook more types of food, with less mess and fewer headaches.

Pair it with tools like a good grill scraper and a temperature guide magnet, and your BBQ setup becomes faster, cleaner, and more reliable every time.

👉 Ready to upgrade your grilling game? Click the image or button to check out our range of tools and gear designed for smarter, easier BBQs.