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One thing recently caught my eyes on the internet. People are super confused about the Weber sear station and have been asking all sorts of questions about it. So, I’ve created a guideline that includes all questions you may have about sear station uses.
If you have decided to get a Weber grill that comes with this sear station feature, it’s better to have all information. So, is Weber sear station worth it? Let’s find out.
What Is The Sear Station On A Weber Grill
The structure, as well as the function of a sear station, are simple. A sear station is when three burners are closer to each other compared to regular burners.
This feature allows the burner to reach a very high temperature in less time. As you know, searing takes a high-temperature point.
A searing station can cut down the cooking time by reaching a certain temperature comparatively quicker than a usual burner.
Is Weber Sear Station Worth It – Weber Sear Station Review
Getting a Weber grill that features a sear station will certainly cost you a few hundred extra bucks. When someone is getting a new grill, they always get confused regarding this feature.
Spending a few extra bucks will allow them to enjoy this high-end feature, but it’s not an easy decision to make. Let’s talk upsides and downsides.
The first thing to understand is that it can make searing extremely convenient. You will be able to reach a very high temperature and get the desired result, as long as you know what you’re doing with your grill.
Whether you’re doing a regular sear or a reverse one, the sear station will not disappoint you. It’s super easy to use the sear station too.
Even though many people get confused about the proper way of utilizing a sear station, there’s hardly a wrong way to operate it.
The second great thing about this sear station to consider is the amount of time you can save. With a traditional grill burner, it’ll take some time to reach a high-temperature point.
It also becomes difficult to combine cooking and searing when you’re using the same burner for both purposes. So, a searing station not only lessens your cooking time but also makes the process easier.
Don’t assume that the sear station has no downsides. The first downside I would like to highlight is the added cost. You will need a handsome budget if you want to enjoy this feature.
Secondly, your Weber grill can already reach a high enough level to sear with perfection. If you have enough time to sear with your regular burner, there is no need to spend that kind of money on a side burner.
Another thing most people forget to weigh before buying a grill is how often they use the side burner. Most people spend that extra money to get this feature but end up not using it at all. So, think this through.
The question comes down to this- is Weber sear station worth it? The answer is yes. The sear station is worth your money if you utilize it.
A sear station is an excellent feature to enjoy. Anyone who owns a grill with a sear station will tell you so.
However, it depends on two things. The first thing is the budget you have set for your grill. The second one is are you going to use it as frequently as it requires to make the purchase worth it?
Also Read: 5 Best Griddle For Weber Genesis: Which One is Right for You?
Weber Grill With Sear Station – Which Weber Grills Come With Sear Stations
Hopefully, you’ve made a decision whether you want to go with a grill with or without a sear station. If you want the sear station, you will find some recommendations below.
Weber summit models, genesis models, and spirit models come with sear station. I’ve reviewed them for you with details.
Summit models – Weber Summit Liquid Propane Grill
This model from Weber’s Summit series is enriched with attractive features. If you’re looking for a gas grill with a sear station, I would highly recommend this one without any second thoughts.
Even though it’s on the pricier end compared to other Weber models, the grill is well worth the price. The stainless steel structure with a well-built 580-square inch cooking area is only a few features to mention.
Stay tuned to check out the entire review below.
Top Features
- Grease management system
- 3D assembly with the free BILT app
- Built-in thermometer and fuel gauge
- Rear-mounted infrared rotisserie burner
- Sear station, smoker burner, and side burner
There are countless things to mention about this grill. When you’re getting a grill from Weber, you can already expect that it is going to be worth the money.
However, the features will certainly make your decision much easier when you’re considering a grill with a sear station.
A large cooking area that sums up to 580 square inches allows you to cook for eight to ten people at once. As for efficiency, there are four high-end burners, a sear station, and a rotisserie rear burner to make your cooking experience as diverse as possible.
The grease management is more effective than any other gas grill. It’s a combination of a grease tray and a disposable catch pan. So, cleaning is now easier than ever.
When the pan fills, simply remove it and replace it with a new one. There’s also a built-in thermometer for better control and a fuel gauge to let you know the level of gas.
This grill from the Summit series is an amazing combo between premium-quality materials, sturdy construction, convenient grilling features, and durability. You will certainly take your cooking experience to another level when using this grill.
So, if you have enough budget, I would certainly recommend selecting this grill over the others.
Pros:
- Retains the maximum heat
- Easy to cook on and easy to clean
- Huge cooking surfaces allow to sear many pieces at once
- Adds more flavor and juiciness to food by catching the drips
Cons:
- Costlier than other Weber sear stations
Also Read: Weber Gas Grill Regulator Leaking (Reason & Solution)
Genesis Models – Weber Genesis 3-Burner Grill
Another amazing unit offering the benefit of a sear station is this model from the Genesis Series by Weber. Along with great heating distribution and performance, the sear station works as a cherry on top.
The side table and the enclosed storage come in handy when you want to store everything that’s needed when you’re cooking.
If you’re considering a gas grill with some exciting features, I would highly recommend you go for this one.
Top Features
- Warming rack
- Fast sear marks
- Effective heat retention
- Diverse cooking options
- Side table and enclosed storage
Genesis series has some great grills too. The basic attributes are almost the same for every gas grill from Weber.
For instance, you can expect fewer flare-ups from all grills because of the efficient grease management system. The structure also ensures that you only get the best smoky flavors when grilling with this unit.
The additional features are breathtaking too. You can sauté or simmer using this grill.
Besides, the sear station allows for quick and easy searing without going through any hassles.
Another fascinating feature is the infinity ignition. So, expect perfect ignition without fail every time you light the grill up. So, you can save a lot of time if you’re grilling with this gas grill.
There’s a warming rack, a side table, and enough storage for all your things like a griddle, mat, cover, etc. Keep any BBQ sauce, seasonings, and tools near at hand so that nothing can interrupt when you’re cooking.
Weber excels in two of the significant features users seek. One is maximum heat retention and the other one is even heat distribution.
So, this grill offers you all the primary attributes you want in a grill with a lot more to offer.
Pros:
- Adds beautiful sear marks to food
- Perfectly maintains and distributes heat
- The warming rack keeps the food fresh for a later serving
- Versatile usage- great for searing, sauteing, and simmering
Cons:
- Requires a larger place than expected
- Takes too much time and effort to assemble the product
Also Read: 10 Best Weber Drip Pan Alternatives: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Grill
Spirit Models – Weber Spirit Gas Grill
This spirit model from Weber is comparatively a lot more affordable. When you’re considering the sear station with this grill, the price is surprisingly reasonable.
It’s a heavy-duty unit built to last. The grates are made of cast iron, unlike most grills which feature stainless steel grates. The cooking grates are porcelain-enameled.
Overall, it’s a great grill to consider, specifically for the price.
Top Features
- Even heat distribution
- Stainless steel burners
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Cast iron cooking grates
- Comparatively affordable
If you want an affordable option with basic features, the spirit series can be a lifesaver for you. The size is perfect if you are cooking for four to six people. The cooking grates are cast iron made. They also have porcelain on top.
The burners, on the other hand, are made of stainless steel. So, you can not only expect excellent heat retention but also even heat distribution. Structural construction also plays an important role in making this a valuable unit.
The lid and the cook box are rust-proof, so you can expect them last a long time just using a cover for your spirit. You will also enjoy the excellent flavor when cooking with this unit.
In addition, the ignition system will ignite the grill with perfection every time. There’s a side burner. It comes in handy when you love to saute or simmer anything. That certainly improves the diversity in your cooking.
There are also some downsides to this grill. One considerable factor is the weight of this grill. The grill is comparatively a lot heavier than others. So, if it’s a deal-breaker issue for you, I won’t recommend this grill to you.
However, as an affordable option with a high-end sear station, you won’t find a better option than this one.
Pros:
- Lasts for years
- Easy to assemble
- Heats up very fast
- A Budget-friendly option
- Designed for effortless cleanups
Cons:
- The surface is not big enough to cook for a large group
Also Read: How To Use A Searing Burner On A Gas Grill – Most Effective Way
How Does Weber Sear Station Work
A sear station is nothing complicated at all. It’s three burners attached closely together. The burners are different from regular burners. You can reach a very high temperature faster than usual burners.
Searing requires a direct high heat to create that beautiful effect on the food. It does not only create a visual impact but is also essential for the recipe to work with perfection.
The function of a sear station is to directly heat the food you’re placing on top and offer as high a temperature as you need without taking much time.
A Weber searing station will sear each side of a steak within one to four minutes. This way, your recipe becomes more efficient and takes less time.
So, By using the proper method, you can sear any meat a lot faster than a normal burner. Besides, it will be more convenient too.
How To Use Sear Station On Weber Grill
Using the sear station on a Weber grill is pretty easy. First, you will have to open the lid and ignite the grill. You won’t have to turn the sear burner yet.
Close the lid. Make sure to let the grill preheat for about 15 minutes or so. You can also wait till the grill reaches 500 to 550 degrees F. Once the grill is preheated, turn on the sear station.
You will have to turn the outer or right burner off or set it to low before lighting the searing station. Then, you can start searing your food.
Depending on the meat and recipe, it can take anywhere between one to four minutes to sear each side. You can also experiment with the searing time to see what result works for you the best.
Once you’re done searing, transfer it to the other burner that has a lower temperature compared to the sear station.
You can finish the rest of the cooking there. You can also try reverse searing. It’s a method where you do the searing process as a finishing touch to your recipe.
Weber Sear Station Vs Infrared
I’ve already explained how a sear station works. Now, let me explain how it differs from an infrared burner. Unlike traditional burners, infrared burners do not use an open flame. Instead, infrared components heat up the food to cook it.
One significant benefit of an infrared burner is that when you’re cooking in a windy area, it won’t get affected. Traditional burners and sear burners will be affected by the wind.
How To Cook Steak With Weber Sear Station
Cooking steak with a Weber sear station is a very easy process. However, the seasonings and the precise procedure entirely depend on your personal preference.
Step By Step Process
- Season your stake. Use whichever combination you like the most.
- Open the Weber grill’s lid and turn on the burners. Do not light the sear burner, only the main ones.
- Preheat the grill till it reaches about 550 degrees F. Make sure that the side burner is turned off or set to low.
- Now, turn on the sear burner. Place the steak on it. Once it has reached the desired level of temperature, sear the steak. The time you need to sear each side will depend on your recipe.
- Transfer the steak over to the main burner once you’re done searing. Finish cooking the steak there according to your preference.
Benefits Of Sear Station On Weber Genesis
Even though I’ve already discussed why you should get a Weber grill with a sear station, I want to highlight the major reasons. I’ve summarized them below.
- It reduces your cooking time
- Offers a better sear compared to a traditional burner
- Reaches a very high temperature
- Does not take long to reach a high temperature
- Searing doesn’t take long
- Convenient to create separate zones by utilizing it
Conclusion
So, is Weber sear station worth it? In the end, it’s all up to you. If you consider yourself a regular cook who loves to sear often, there can’t be a better option. The sear station will be absolutely worth it. In comparison, if you won’t be using it much, I don’t see the point of investing that much money in this extra feature. If you sear occasionally, a regular grill will do fine. You will have to wait longer for that perfect sear, but it will still be better than spending those extra bucks on a sear station you will barely use.
