Known for robust, no-nonsense gear tailored to campfire cooking, backyard barbecues, and everything in between, Hungry Man products are built to withstand the elements and the heat. And now, with the release of the Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate, this brand has added a practical and rugged accessory to their lineup.
Whether you’re someone who needs more surface area for grilling up burgers for the whole family, or you’re a serious outdoor cook who likes to keep meats and veggies separated, an additional cooking grate could be the answer to your grill-side frustrations. But how well does this extra grate hold up in real-world use? Is it worth the price, and more importantly, does it live up to the Hungry Man reputation?
In this long-form review, we’re going to take a deep dive into everything this cooking grate has to offer—from build quality and materials to performance and versatility. We’ll also look at how it compares to similar products on the market and provide answers to some frequently asked questions. So if you’re considering expanding your cooking surface, read on—you might just find that this humble grate is exactly what you’ve been missing.
Key Features and Specifications of the Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate
To get started, let’s take a closer look at what the Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate actually brings to the table. Below is a breakdown of its primary features and specs.
| Feature | Description |
| Material | Heavy-duty stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 18 x 12 inches (standard) or larger depending on model |
| Weight | Approximately 4.5 to 6 pounds depending on size |
| Coating | Non-stick high-temperature coating (optional version available) |
| Design Type | Welded wire mesh with cross-support beams |
| Heat Resistance | Up to 1000°F |
| Compatibility | Works with Hungry Man grills, fire pits, and most standard open grills |
| Portability | Foldable legs or flat-pack storage (model dependent) |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher safe or hand-washable with grill-safe brush |
The specs tell us a lot: this isn’t just some flimsy piece of metal you toss over a flame. It’s clearly designed with real-world durability in mind. Stainless steel means rust resistance, and with a weight that feels substantial but not unmanageable, it strikes a good balance between portability and toughness.
Why You Might Want an Additional Grate: Real Use Cases
Still wondering if you really need an extra cooking grate? Let’s look at a few scenarios where this add-on becomes not just useful, but essential:
Cooking for a Crowd
If you’ve ever hosted a backyard cookout, you already know how cramped a single grill surface can get. The Hungry Man additional grate lets you double your surface area instantly. Stack it above your main grill for a second tier, or lay it across another open flame nearby—whatever works.
Keeping Foods Separate
Not everyone wants their steak cooked next to the corn on the cob. Whether it’s dietary restrictions, allergies, or just personal preference, having an extra cooking surface allows you to keep different types of food apart without sacrificing cooking efficiency.
Maintaining Temperature Control
Grilling isn’t just about high heat. Sometimes you need a slightly cooler surface to keep food warm without continuing to cook it. The elevated or offset design of the Hungry Man grate makes this easy to accomplish.
Dutch Oven or Cast Iron Skillet Support
Some users prefer to use Dutch ovens or cast iron cookware over a campfire or grill. This grate can serve as a strong and stable platform for heavier cooking vessels—making it a versatile tool in your outdoor kitchen arsenal.
Emergency Backup Cooking Surface
Let’s face it—grill grates wear out, or you forget to bring the original with you on a trip. Having an additional grate in your gear can save the day, especially one that’s easy to clean and store like this one.
Pros and Cons of the Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate
Like any product, this one isn’t perfect. Here’s a straightforward list of the things we liked and the areas where there’s room for improvement.
Pros:
- Solid construction: This thing feels bulletproof. It doesn’t wobble or warp with heat.
- Ample cooking space: Whether you’re cooking for two or ten, the extra room goes a long way.
- Heat-tolerant: Handles extreme temps with no visible damage or discoloration.
- Easy to clean: Grates wipe clean quickly, especially with the non-stick version.
- Versatile: Fits on multiple grills and can even be used directly over campfires.
- Great value for price: For what you get, it doesn’t break the bank.
Cons:
- A bit bulky for lightweight packers: If you’re trying to minimize gear, this might feel heavy.
- No height adjustment: Unlike some modular systems, it doesn’t have built-in height flexibility.
- Limited coating options: Only one model comes with a non-stick surface.
- Can discolor over time: Stainless steel can develop a patina with frequent use, though this is cosmetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate compatible with non-Hungry Man grills?
Yes, in most cases. It’s designed to be a universal fit for any grill or open fire pit that can support its dimensions. That said, always measure your grill to ensure a proper fit.
Can I use this over a direct campfire?
Absolutely. In fact, that’s one of the strong points of this grate. It’s built to withstand direct flame and high temperatures, making it a favorite among campers and bushcrafters.
Does it rust easily?
No. The stainless steel material is highly rust-resistant. Just make sure to clean and dry it properly after use, especially if you’ve been using it around salty air or in humid climates.
What makes this different from other extra grates on the market?
The Hungry Man version stands out for its durability and smart design. The cross-supports and welds are robust, and the slightly elevated frame provides an edge over flat grates in terms of airflow and heat management.
Is this a good option for smoking food?
Yes and no. While the grate itself doesn’t have built-in smoke functionality, it can be used in combination with a smoker or wood chips to expand your smoking setup. Its open design allows smoke to circulate freely.
Can I use it indoors?
It’s not intended for indoor use unless you’re placing it over a stovetop grill or in the oven with appropriate safety measures. It’s really designed for open flames or outdoor grills.
Conclusion
So, is the Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate worth adding to your grilling toolkit? If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor cooking and often finds themselves running out of space or looking for more versatility, the answer is a solid yes.
This grate delivers in nearly every department. It’s built like a tank, performs well in high-heat situations, and adds a level of flexibility that even seasoned grill masters will appreciate. Sure, it’s not the lightest piece of gear you’ll ever own, and no, it doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles—but that’s not the point. The Hungry Man Additional Cooking Grate is a simple, rugged, and reliable accessory that does its job extremely well.
Whether you’re using it on a fire pit at the campsite, over your backyard grill, or even as a makeshift prep surface, this additional cooking grate offers solid value and proven performance. If you’re in the market for more cooking space without upgrading your entire grill, this is one of the best options out there.