Quick Summary:
Price: $1,149
Pros
- Consistent Heat Distribution: The three main burners ensure even cooking across the entire grill surface.
- Versatility: With a sear station and side burner, you can cook a wide variety of dishes simultaneously.
- Flavor Enhancement: The Flavorizer Bars add a rich, smoky flavor to your food, enhancing the overall taste.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel components provide longevity and resistance to the elements.
- Spacious Cooking Area: With 669 square inches of total cooking space, there is ample room to prepare multiple dishes at once.
Cons
- Price: The Weber Spirit SP-335 is priced higher than some other grills in its category, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Size: The grill's size may be cumbersome for those with limited outdoor space, making it less suitable for small patios or balconies.
As an avid grilling enthusiast, I've always believed that the right equipment can elevate the entire cooking experience. After extensive research and consideration, I decided to invest in the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill. This decision was influenced by its promising features and the reputable standing of the Weber brand. Over the past few months, I've had the pleasure of using this grill extensively, and I'm eager to share my firsthand insights.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions of the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
Upon receiving the Weber Spirit SP-335, I was immediately impressed by its robust packaging, ensuring all components arrived in pristine condition. The assembly process was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions provided. Within a couple of hours, the grill stood assembled, showcasing its sleek stainless steel finish and sturdy construction. The thoughtful design elements, such as the side burner and sear station, hinted at the versatility this grill promised.
Cooking Performance: Putting the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill to the Test
The true test of any grill lies in its cooking performance. The Weber Spirit SP-335 boasts three stainless steel burners delivering 32,000 BTU-per-hour input, complemented by a 7,500 BTU-per-hour sear station burner and a 12,000 BTU-per-hour side burner. This configuration provides ample heat for various cooking techniques.
In practice, the grill heats up rapidly, reaching optimal cooking temperatures within minutes. The sear station is particularly impressive, creating an intense heat zone perfect for achieving those coveted sear marks on steaks. The side burner adds versatility, allowing me to simmer sauces or sauté vegetables alongside grilling.
The cooking grates, made of porcelain-enameled cast iron, retain heat efficiently and are easy to clean. The 529 square inches of total cooking area, including a warming rack, provide ample space to grill multiple items simultaneously, making it ideal for hosting gatherings.
Design and Build Quality of the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
Weber's attention to detail is evident in the Spirit SP-335's design. The stainless steel lid and control panel not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its durability. The grill features six tool hooks and a spacious side table, offering ample space for grilling essentials, serving trays, and utensils. The electronic crossover ignition system ensures reliable startups every time.
The accessible drip tray, built within the catch pan, funnels away grease from the burners, simplifying the cleanup process. Additionally, the sleek lid with a center-mounted thermometer allows for precise temperature monitoring, ensuring consistent cooking results.
Maintenance and Durability: Long-Term Use of the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
After several months of regular use, the Weber Spirit SP-335 has proven to be a reliable companion. The stainless steel components have resisted rust and corrosion, maintaining their appearance and functionality. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates have remained intact, showing no signs of wear.
Cleaning the grill is straightforward. The grease management system effectively channels drippings into a removable tray, making disposal easy. Regular maintenance, such as brushing the grates and emptying the drip tray, has kept the grill in optimal condition.
User Experience: Day-to-Day Grilling with the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
The Weber Spirit SP-335 has enhanced my grilling experience significantly. The even heat distribution ensures consistent cooking, eliminating the need to shuffle food around the grill. The sear station has become a favorite feature, allowing me to achieve restaurant-quality sear marks on meats.
The side burner has added convenience, enabling me to prepare side dishes without leaving the grill. The ample cooking space has made hosting gatherings more enjoyable, as I can cook various items simultaneously without overcrowding the grill. This feature is especially useful when preparing meals for a crowd, allowing me to cook everything at once rather than juggling multiple cooking sessions.
Versatility of the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
One of the standout features of the Weber Spirit SP-335 is its versatility. Whether I’m grilling meats, vegetables, or even trying my hand at grilling pizza, this grill accommodates various cooking styles. The ability to adjust heat across the burners makes it easy to sear meats at high temperatures while maintaining a lower, indirect heat zone for slower cooking, such as for chicken or fish.
I’ve also enjoyed the ability to experiment with smoking by adding a smoker box to the grill. While not a dedicated smoker, the Weber Spirit SP-335 can effectively handle small amounts of wood chips for a smoky flavor on meats like ribs or brisket. This flexibility makes it a great option for both traditional grilling and experimenting with different cooking techniques.
Pros and Cons of the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
Pros:
- Versatile Cooking Options: The combination of main burners, sear station, and side burner offers flexibility for various cooking techniques.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel components and porcelain-enameled grates ensure longevity.
- User-Friendly Design: Features like the electronic ignition system and accessible drip tray simplify operation and maintenance.
- Ample Cooking Space: The generous cooking area accommodates large meals, ideal for entertaining.
- Consistent Performance: The heat distribution is reliable, delivering consistent results each time.
Cons:
- Price Point: The Weber Spirit SP-335 is priced higher than some other grills in its category, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Size: The grill's size may be cumbersome for those with limited outdoor space, making it less suitable for small patios or balconies. However, it’s perfect for those with larger yards or those who do a lot of outdoor cooking.
- Learning Curve for New Grills: If you’re new to grilling, there may be a slight learning curve with getting the heat control just right, especially with the sear station. But with a little practice, it becomes second nature.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for the Weber Spirit SP-335
Cleaning and maintaining the Weber Spirit SP-335 is a relatively simple process, but like any grill, it requires some care to ensure it continues to perform well. Here are a few tips that have helped me keep it in great condition:
- Regularly clean the grates: After each use, I make it a point to brush the cooking grates with a grill brush to prevent any leftover food from sticking. This keeps the grill clean and ready for the next use.
- Empty the grease tray: The grease management system works well, but it’s important to empty the tray regularly to avoid buildup that could lead to flare-ups or unwanted odors.
- Check burner ports: Every few months, I inspect the burner ports to ensure they’re clear of debris. This simple maintenance helps the burners perform at their best.
- Cover the grill when not in use: While the Weber Spirit SP-335 is designed to withstand the elements, I always use a cover when it’s not in use to protect it from dirt and weather.
Final Thoughts on the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
The Weber Spirit SP-335 has been a solid addition to my outdoor cooking arsenal. It strikes a great balance between performance, ease of use, and long-term durability. While its price might be higher than some other grills in the market, the features and build quality make it a solid investment for anyone serious about grilling.
For me, the Weber Spirit SP-335 is more than just a grill—it’s an essential part of my backyard cooking routine. Whether I’m cooking a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for family and friends, this grill has delivered time and again. Its versatility, combined with reliable performance and ease of maintenance, makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enhance their grilling experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
Q: What type of fuel does the Weber Spirit SP-335 use?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 uses liquid propane (LP) gas. You can also use a natural gas version if you have a natural gas line available in your home.
Q: How large is the cooking area on the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 provides 529 square inches of total cooking space, including a warming rack. This is ideal for grilling large meals or cooking multiple items at once.
Q: How many burners does the Weber Spirit SP-335 have?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 features three stainless steel burners, plus a dedicated sear station burner and a side burner, offering flexible cooking options.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit SP-335 come with a sear station?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 includes a 7,500 BTU-per-hour sear station that helps you achieve intense heat for perfect sear marks on steaks and other meats.
Q: Can I use the Weber Spirit SP-335 to cook with indirect heat?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 supports indirect cooking. You can turn off one or more burners and place food on the cooler side of the grill, ideal for slow-cooking meats like chicken or roasts.
Q: Is the Weber Spirit SP-335 easy to assemble?
A: Yes, the assembly of the Weber Spirit SP-335 is relatively simple and should take around 1-2 hours. The instructions are clear, and all necessary tools and parts are included in the package.
Q: How do I clean the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: Cleaning the Weber Spirit SP-335 involves brushing the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates after each use, cleaning out the grease tray regularly, and wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth. The grill also has a grease management system that helps simplify cleanup.
Q: How much does the Weber Spirit SP-335 weigh?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 weighs approximately 130 pounds, making it sturdy but not too heavy to move around if needed.
Q: What kind of warranty does the Weber Spirit SP-335 come with?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 comes with a 10-year warranty on all parts, including the burners and cooking grates. This warranty provides peace of mind for long-term use.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit SP-335 have a built-in thermometer?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 features a built-in lid thermometer, which allows you to monitor the internal temperature of the grill for precise cooking control.
Q: Is the side burner on the Weber Spirit SP-335 useful?
A: Yes, the side burner is very useful for preparing sauces, sautéing vegetables, or boiling corn while grilling. It’s a great addition for multitasking and expanding your cooking options.
Q: Can the Weber Spirit SP-335 be used for smoking?
A: While the Weber Spirit SP-335 is not a dedicated smoker, you can use a smoker box to add wood chips and infuse your food with a smoky flavor while grilling.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit SP-335 have tool hooks for storage?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 comes with six tool hooks, providing convenient storage for grilling utensils, brushes, and other accessories while cooking.