The precise responsive control of the dual independently operated heating elements is the perfect scenario for grilling perfection. High heat provides the perfect sear in one zone while low heat in the other zone gently finishes the cooking without drying the food out.

The grill is carefully designed to ensure responsive heat control while minimizing flare-ups.

  • - The heating elements rest in grooves on the underside of the cast iron grates allowing for efficient heat transfer.
  • - Lava rocks, placed in a tray under the grates absorb and evenly distribute heat as well as imparting an authentic grilled flavor and minimizing flare-ups.
  • - A small tray under the lava rocks catches drippings and sediment from the lava rocks.
  • - Both elements can be used at one time with different power levels or the entire grill can be heated to one power level.
  • - If only one element is activated the other element will absorb some residual heat.
  • - The included half sized cast iron griddle pan can be used to sauté vegetables, cook savory or sweet pancakes or hot toasted sandwiches.

Close-up image of two illuminated Gaggenau Vario grill control knobs

Grilling tips

For best results allow approximately 10 minutes for the grill to heat evenly. Prior to grilling brush foods with a light coating of heat tolerant oil to prevent sticking.

Max Power Level 12

This setting is ideal for a high heat sear when grilling steak. Be sure to wait until the heat indicator is solid before cooking and only turn the steak when it releases easily. Set both zones to this power level to grill a rustic pizza to perfection.

Power Level 10 - 11

This setting provides the ideal temperature range for grilling chops, fresh sausages, calamari or finishing sous vide octopus. To avoid the meat curling when grilling chops, make several cuts along the bone in the fat prior to cooking.

Power Level 9 - 10

This temperature range provides best results for a variety of foods such as, hamburgers, hot dogs, smoked sausages, chicken wings and thighs, large shrimp and also for finishing ribs and grilling vegetables.

Power Level 7 - 8

This lower power level provides best results when grilling fish such as salmon, tuna and halibut or for grilling bread.

Close-up image of vegetables cooking in the Gaggenau griddle pan

Tips for Cooking with the Griddle Pan

Power Level 10 - 11

A higher temperature range is ideal when cooking hamburgers, or sauteing vegetables.

Power Level 7 - 9

Lower temperatures are best for cooking eggs, pancakes, quesadillas or toasted sandwiches.

Close-up image of a Gaggenau wire brush for cleaning the various electric grill

Cleaning tips for the LAVA ROCKS, griddle pan and Grill plates

Lava Rocks

The tray that contains the lava rocks should be removed from time to time in order for the catch tray underneath to be cleaned and the base of the unit wiped clean. The need for cleaning will depend on the frequency of use and type of foods grilled.

The tray that contains the lava rocks can be washed in the dishwasher using the Auto cycle with the highest temperature setting. Before washing the tray turn the lava rocks onto a rimmed baking sheet lined with newspaper or paper towels.

The lava rocks will need to be replaced over time. When the rocks begin to turn black this indicates it is time to discard the rocks and replace them.

The grill ships with a large bag of lava rocks, enough to fill the tray twice. Additional lava rocks can be ordered from the Gaggenau eshop.

Griddle Pan

Allow the pan to cool after cooking then wipe any residue from the pan with a paper towel. Wash the pan with very hot water and dry thoroughly.

The grill plates and griddle pan are cast iron and not dishwasher safe.

Grill Plates

Cleaning the grill plates after each use is recommended to avoid baking on grease. Place the cooled grates in the sink and use the included grill brush to remove any cooking debris then use hot soapy water to wash them clean. If needed the grill plates can be soaked to loosen stuck on debris.

A Chef in a Gaggenau kitchen preparing a dish

Chef’s hints

As you become familiar with the vast abilities of your appliance to make every dish extraordinary, you will discover the difference that is Gaggenau. Create culinary masterpieces and achieve the most from your Gaggenau appliances with useful tips and recipes from our Head Gaggenau Educator, Chef Larissa.