The IKEA cast-iron grill is a $79 portable charcoal grill that delivers professional-grade results without the premium price tag. Made from cast iron and measuring just 16⅞ inches long by 8¼ inches wide, this compact cooker is designed for backyard cookouts, park picnics, and beach trips where space and portability matter. At less than one-third the cost of many competing grills, it represents a serious challenge to the idea that quality outdoor cooking requires deep pockets.
Key Takeaways
- IKEA’s Soluppgång cast-iron grill costs $79 and fits in tight outdoor spaces
- Cast-iron construction delivers high heat retention and even heat distribution across the grate
- Pre-treated with vegetable soybean oil and ready to use without seasoning
- Produces dark grill marks and crispy caramelized results on meat and vegetables
- Compact dimensions make it ideal for small yards, balconies, parks, and beaches
Why the IKEA Cast-Iron Grill Outperforms Expensive Alternatives
The IKEA cast-iron grill’s value proposition is simple: it delivers heat retention and cooking performance comparable to grills costing significantly more. Cast iron’s thermal properties—high heat retention and even heat distribution—allow the grill to achieve the dark caramelization and crispy exterior that serious cooks demand. The grate is specifically designed to keep small pieces of food from falling into the coals, making it ideal for meat, fish, and skewered vegetables.
When compared to alternatives like the Weber 18-inch kettle priced at $139, or Habitat’s Mini Tabletop Kamado at £120, the IKEA grill delivers equivalent cooking capability at a fraction of the cost. Even against IKEA’s own older GRILLSKÄR charcoal barbecue—which costs roughly three times as much—the Soluppgång offers better value for most home cooks. The grill’s vents increase airflow to the bowl, which raises grilling temperature and speeds up cooking time, eliminating the sluggish performance common in budget models.
Portable Design for Small Spaces and Adventures
The real genius of the IKEA cast-iron grill lies in its portability and footprint. At just over 7 inches tall and weighing far less than traditional barrel or kettle grills, it fits on apartment balconies, small patios, and even fits in car trunks for trips to the park or beach. This makes it the rare grill that serves both permanent backyard installations and mobile entertaining.
The grill arrives pre-treated with vegetable soybean oil, so there is no need for the tedious pre-seasoning ritual that deters many first-time cast-iron users. Unbox it, set it up, and start grilling—a major advantage over raw cast-iron models that require hours of seasoning before first use.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Cast iron demands respect, but the IKEA grill is straightforward to maintain. After each use, brush the grate with a grill brush while it is still warm. If the grill has cooled, soak it in hot water before cleaning. Greasing the grate with cooking oil during use makes cleanup easier and prevents rust. For the bowl itself, wipe it clean with a sponge, warm water, and soap, then empty the grease cup after each session.
If stains or corrosion appear over time, IKEA recommends cleaning with steel wool or an abrasive sponge, then reseasoning with food-grade oil. For those who want to avoid elbow grease entirely, the IKEA Norway product page suggests two unconventional hacks: slice an onion in half and rub it on the warm grate (which may leave a faint onion taste), or pour beer over the grate and scrub with newspaper. Neither is foolproof, but both are worth trying before reaching for chemicals.
Part of a Larger Affordable Outdoor Ecosystem
The IKEA cast-iron grill is the centerpiece of the broader Soluppgång outdoor collection, which includes accessories ranging from just $4 to $80. A $4 spork, $25 folding stool, $40 picnic blanket, and $60 folding table round out the range. This positions the grill as the first item to buy in a complete outdoor entertaining setup, with matching pieces available at prices that do not require a second mortgage.
Is the IKEA cast-iron grill worth buying?
Yes, if you have limited outdoor space, value portability, or want to grill without spending hundreds of dollars. The cast-iron construction and heat retention rival grills costing two to three times as much. The main trade-off is size—you are grilling small pieces of food, not whole chickens or racks of ribs.
How do you season the IKEA Soluppgång before first use?
You do not need to. The grill comes pre-treated with vegetable soybean oil and is ready to use straight out of the box. Unlike raw cast-iron cookware, there is no seasoning step required before your first cookout.
Can you use the IKEA grill on a balcony or apartment patio?
Yes. The compact 16⅞-by-8¼-inch footprint and low weight make it suitable for small outdoor spaces including balconies, patios, and even car trunks for portable entertaining. Always check your lease or building rules regarding open-flame or charcoal grilling in multifamily housing.
The IKEA cast-iron grill proves that summer cookouts do not require expensive equipment or sprawling backyards. At $79, it delivers serious grilling performance in a footprint that fits almost anywhere. For renters, apartment dwellers, and anyone tired of overspending on outdoor gear, it is the rare budget product that does not compromise on results.
Where to Buy
IKEASoluppgÅng Plate – Enamelled Steel 8 "$4.99shop now
Edited by the All Things Geek team.
Source: Tom's Guide
