With these DIY grill pans and BBQ drip pans, there’s no need for a grill basket or pan. You can create custom-sized pans using aluminum foil.
Whether you’re grilling pizzas, kebobs, veggies, or tender meats like fish or seafood, grill pans can prevent small, delicate ingredients from falling through the grates. DIY aluminum foil pans can help retain every last drop of marinades or basting sauces from recipes, including ribs, pork chops, steaks, chicken, or side dishes. What’s even better? There is no need for tedious scrubbing after grilling! Simply dispose of your pan in the trash. Pans that are clean and dry may even be recyclable in some communities.
How to Make a DIY Grill Pan
These are easier to make than you think! Even your kids can lend a hand.
Because these DIY grill pans are made with aluminum foil, you can form them to any size your dish requires—and you likely already have everything you need in your pantry. They’re the ideal grill pan substitute.
Directions:
Place a 13 by 9 by 2-inch pan upside down.
Lay one sheet of heavy duty foil that extends the entire width of the pan plus a little extra and another sheet of foil that extends the length of your pan, ensuring that the corners overlap.
If using Grill Foil or Non-Stick Foil for sticky foods, make sure the non-stick side (dull side) faces down.
Press the sheets of foil around the pan.
Remove the foil from the pan, flip over, and crimp the ends to form a rim.
Place your DIY grill pan on a sturdy flat tray to transport the food to and from the grill.
To customize the size, you can substitute different-sized pans to create the size you need. You can also form a rim around your food by folding and crimping the foil on each end.
What are drip pans? They’re very similar to a grill pan but have slightly different uses. Both can be made using the DIY grill pan instructions. Make sure your pan has a deep enough rim and is tightly sealed at the corners to prevent liquids from leaking. And always remember to use a sturdy flat tray to transport your drip pan to and from the grill.
How Are BBQ Drip Pans Different from a Grill Pan?
It collects the juices: Rather than having the meats soak in their juices in a grill pan, BBQ pros strategically place drip pans underneath them to collect the tasty juices that drip during the cooking process. The juice can be used to create flavorful gravies and sauces.
It boosts flavors with indirect cooking: Grilling enthusiasts place herbs and savory veggies with the juices in the drip pan to infuse flavors into your meat during slow grilling.
As with grill pans, drip pans make cleanup so much easier. They help prevent grease buildup on your grill and protect your patio or deck from stains. And there’s no need to scrub a drip pan tray, either!
Disposable aluminum foil drip pans are also extremely helpful for soaking wood chips or marinating foods before grilling!
How to Use DIY Grill Pans
Did you know that there are many valuable ways to use grill pans? Discover how to use grill pans for other unique uses like a DIY smoker grill and for cooking skewers.
DIY Smoker Grill
Did you know that you can turn your gas grill into a smoker? This easy aluminum foil trick will add smoky flavor to your meals without buying new equipment!
If you enjoy grilling skewers, chances are you've had to deal with your food getting burned or falling through the grates. We have the solution—a skewer shield made of aluminum foil. It’s such a simple fix! It prevents your skewers from burning and blocks tender veggies, fruits, or meats from slipping into the depths of your grill. You can use a DIY grill pan or place an aluminum foil sheet that’s slightly larger than your skewers on your grill grate. If you prefer your skewers to be moist and tender with less charring, you can also place them in a loosely folded aluminum foil packet as a shield.
Grilling Recipes
Are you excited to start grilling with your newfound knowledge of making DIY grill pans and BBQ drip pans? Check out these delicious recipes to get started.
Yes, grilling with aluminum foil helps you grill your BBQ favorites like a pro with less mess. From delicious packet meals to mouthwatering grilled recipes and even grill cleaning, aluminum foil is the go-to tool for any grilling enthusiast. Unlock your grill’s potential by discovering the versatile ways to grill with aluminum foil.
Yes, you can put aluminum foil on the grill gates. Lining your grill with aluminum foil is convenient and easy to cook perfectly grilled meats and veggies without the post-grilling cleanup. Aluminum foil spreads heat evenly, so foods cook just right. It will also keep smaller foods and bits of meat from falling through the grill grates. Poke small holes in the foil lining to promote airflow.
Rest assured that all Reynolds Wrap® Foil products are safe to use on the grill. Our foil is tough enough to handle cold to ultra-hot conditions—handling temperatures from -40°F to 650°F.
Disposable aluminum foil drip pans are also extremely helpful for soaking wood chips or marinating foods before grilling!
