Can You Use Parchment Paper on the Grill? Everything You Need to Know

November 20, 2023
Written by Kristy J. Norton

Yes, you can use parchment paper on the grill.

But in order to avoid any potential problems, it’s important to use parchment paper properly. For instance, exposing your parchment paper to very high heat (over 420 F) is not recommended. The reason is that even though the best types of parchment papers are resistant to heat, using them after a maximum temperature of 420 degrees can be dangerous. But that’s not it, there is some more info you need to know on how to best use parchment paper on the grill.

I frequently use parchment paper when cooking meals on my grill, and I always get delicious results that don’t stick to my grill. Today, I’ll tell you my secrets. Let’s get started!

can you use parchment paper on the grill

Why You Should Use Parchment Paper?

Firstly, most varieties of parchment paper, just like this paper from Amazon, are non-stick by nature. As a result, you can use them on a grill without worrying about your meals sticking to the grill. Bear in mind that you can use parchment paper on a gas grill, charcoal grill, and pellet grill.

Furthermore, parchment paper insulates your food on the grill. Wrapping meat or fish in parchment before placing them on the grill will create a steam pocket that allows the food to cook slowly and consistently. This produces meat with a delicate and juicy texture and prevents overcooking.

Moreover, unlike plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which tend to seal the air out, using parchment paper on the grill allows your food to breathe. This allows your food to stay crispy thanks to this ventilation pocket.

You can also cut down on the time and effort required to remove food from the grill’s grates by wrapping it in parchment paper. This also prevents sauces and marinades from dripping on the burners and clogging them. Just discard the parchment paper and clean the grill pan and grates.

Lastly, when it comes to health, parchment paper is a better choice than aluminum foil because it is safer and healthier. Overusing aluminum foil when cooking at a high temperature increases the chance of aluminum leaching into the meal.

A high aluminum intake that has leached into food has been linked to neurological issues. Therefore, even though there will always be some metal in food, it is better to use less of it when grilling.

How to Use Parchment Paper?

Now, let’s discuss how you can use parchment paper on the grill.

Grilled Meat Placed on the Parchment Paper

Step 1: Choose the Parchment Paper 

First, select the right kind of paper for your grill. The ideal parchment paper for your grill will be heat-resistant and have a non-stick coating.

I advise you to steer clear of wax paper. This is because this kind of paper is heat-sensitive and will melt under high heat. Therefore, be careful to choose the proper paper that can withstand high heat.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill once you’ve selected the right kind of paper. Preheating the grill ensures that the paper doesn’t stick when you place it on the grill.

Make sure the temperature is appropriate and doesn’t rise above a cooking temperature of 420 F, even when grilling your food.

Step 3: Place the Paper on the Grill Grates and Start Grilling

Once the grill is heated enough, cut the parchment paper so it will easily fit into the grill’s grates. To start, measure the size of the grates and cut the amount of paper you’ll need.

Next, lay the cut parchment paper on the grill grates. Always remember to check that the paper is flat and even. If it wrinkles or overlaps, it will slightly affect your grilling because the heat will not be distributed evenly, which will cause your food not to cook properly. As a result, ensure that the parchment paper is even and flat.

After placing the paper on your grill, arrange the food you’ll be grilling on parchment paper. Avoid putting too much food at once, as this will overcrowd both your grill and the parchment paper. The food won’t cook evenly if this occurs. So, make sure there’s some room between the foods you place on the grill.

Now, pay attention to the food while it grills and continue to adjust the heat as required to protect the paper from flare-ups.

Step 4: Remove the Paper From the Grill

Remove the food from the paper once it has finished cooking. Make sure you remove the food from the paper with tongs to protect your hands from the steaming heat. Lastly, throw out the parchment paper once you’re done grilling. The parchment paper isn’t reusable, so it’s best to crumple it and throw it in the trash.

Parchment Paper Alternatives

Let’s look at two alternatives to using parchment paper.

Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil is a common material with a non-stick surface that is used for grilling by pitmasters worldwide. Aluminum can withstand high temperatures while also conducting and distributing heat without becoming too hot.

Foil is extremely heat-resistant, so it is better suited for high temperatures of 420 degrees and above. In addition, foil retains juices and liquids that may drip onto your grill. The retention properties of foil also allow your meat to stay extra moist since there’s no moisture loss.

Grilled Chicken on the Aluminum Foil

Oil

Before placing the meat on the hot grill, use a small brush to coat the meat with a small amount of vegetable oil.

Next, lightly spray the grates with cooking oil spray before adding your meals to the grill. Ensure you spray the oil before you turn on the heat source to prevent paper burns or flare-ups. Spraying oil while the grill is fired up can cause it to catch fire, so it’s always best to spray it before the grill is on.

Hands Rubbing Olive Oil Over Raw Turkey

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Grill With a Baking Sheet?

A baking sheet can work on a BBQ grill. In fact, many people use baking sheets when cooking veggies or proteins. Ensure that the sheet is properly seasoned and that it does not stick to your food. Silicon-coated paper also works well for this grilling on a charcoal grill.

2. Is It Possible to Place Parchment Paper on a Griddle?

Yes, parchment paper can be used on a griddle. Using parchment paper will prevent food from sticking and also make cleanup a breeze. It also adds a great crispy texture when you cook food.

Conclusion

Now you know the answer to “Can you use parchment paper on the grill.” Parchment paper is a versatile material that you can use on your grill and other indoor and outdoor cooking appliances. Not only is parchment paper non-sticky and safe to use, but it also produces crispy and crunchy meals.

So, now that you know you can use parchment paper on your grill, make sure you carefully follow my directions, so your food doesn’t stick or burn. Remember, you can always apply oil or use aluminum foil on the grates if you don’t have parchment paper.

By Kristy J. Norton
I'm Kristy – a chef and connoisseur of all things BBQ! You can find me either in my kitchen (or someone else's) or at a big outdoor barbecue surrounded by friends and family. In both my professional and personal life I’ve picked up more than a few tips and tricks for turning out delicious food. I consider it a privilege to share it with others!
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