The Best Big Green Egg Grilling Accessories for Beginners

Must-Have Tools for First-Time Eggheads and Backyard Pitmasters Alike


If you're new to grilling on the Big Green Egg or looking to upgrade your setup, you might be overwhelmed with all the accessories out there. As someone who’s spent countless weekends smoking brisket, grilling steaks, and roasting everything from chicken thighs to vegetables on this beast of a grill, I’ve narrowed down the essential Big Green Egg accessories every beginner should own.

Whether you’re prepping for your first cook or leveling up your backyard barbecue game, here’s my go-to list for grilling accessories for beginners—designed to save you time, protect your Egg, and help you grill with confidence.


1. A Solid Table or Grill Station

A Big Green Egg table is more than just a place to set your tools—it's a game-changer. I started with the standard metal nest, but quickly realized the value of having a full surface to work on. If you’re on a budget, find a local builder or woodworker who can replicate the BGE table design. It’s safer, more spacious, and trust me—ground-level grilling is a nightmare. I’ve seen Eggs topple off cheap stands. Invest in a table early.

Not a paid ad, but I personally got my table from Anderson Enterprises Loxley. if you get one from them, tell them I sent ya!

Big Green Egg Setup Backyard Grilling Station

2. BGE Table Nest

Never place your Egg directly on wood. The heat from the ceramic base can cause scorching or even start a fire. The BGE Table Nest (also called a riser) keeps your setup safe by providing airflow beneath the grill.

Purchase Link

* Affiliate Link (Amazon Duplicate)

3. Ash Scoop & Pan

Every few cooks, your Egg needs an ash clean-out. The ash pan and scoop make the job way faster. I personally use the BGE-branded version, but any solid metal scoop will do. Just don’t let ashes build up—it restricts airflow and makes your fire harder to manage.

Ash Scoop Purchase Link

Ash Pan Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

4. Royal Oak Lump Charcoal

After trying multiple brands, Royal Oak Lump Charcoal stands out for its consistent burn, long-lasting embers, and clean, smoky flavor. It’s affordable and widely available—perfect for beginners looking to dial in their fire management.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

5. Charcoal fire bowl

A charcoal basket improves airflow and makes cleaning out old lump a breeze. The stock plate that comes with the Egg doesn’t allow for quick charcoal changes, and poor airflow can hurt your cook. This upgrade helps with both.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

6. Electric Charcoal Starter (BGE)

The BGE Electric Charcoal Starter is plug-and-play. Just bury it in the lump charcoal, go prep your food, and when you come back—it’s lit. I’ve tried electric torches and blow torches, but this wins for simplicity and hands-free lighting.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

7. ConvEGGtor (Plate Setter)

The ConvEGGtor is what transforms your Egg from a simple grill to a powerhouse smoker and oven. You’ll use it for low-and-slow cooks like ribs, pulled pork, and whole chickens. Think of it as your grill’s best friend—it’s the most used accessory in my setup.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate (Duplicate)

8. High Heat Grill Gloves

Grabbing the ConvEGGtor or adjusting your grill grates? You’ll need high heat-resistant gloves. Welding gloves work amazingly well and are usually cheaper than name-brand BBQ gloves. Just don’t use regular oven mitts unless you like surprises.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

9. Long-Handled Spatula & Tongs

Basic? Yes. But essential. Always use long-handled tools to avoid hovering your hands over the fire. Whether flipping burgers or repositioning a steak, these give you reach and control. No particular brand recommendation—just get something durable.


10. Reliable Grill Thermometer

Don’t guess your temps. Undercooked meat is a health risk—and overcooked meat is a tragedy. A grill thermometer(even a basic instant-read) ensures you hit the right internal temps. I use a Weber constant-read thermometer for real-time tracking and peace of mind.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

11. BBQ Daddy (Grate Cleaner)

Ditch the wire brush. Seriously—those bristles can shed and end up in your food. The BBQ Daddy has a durable, safe design and works well on hot grates. Plus, the built-in scraper makes post-cook cleanup a breeze.

Purchase Link

*Amazon Affiliate

Final Thoughts

These Big Green Egg beginner accessories aren’t just about convenience—they’re about improving your cook, staying safe, and getting the most out of your investment. Whether you're doing slow-smoked ribs or a quick weeknight chicken thigh sear, the right tools make all the difference.

If you’re just getting started, grab the basics first—table, riser, charcoal, and ConvEGGtor. Then build out from there as your grilling confidence grows.

Want more Big Green Egg tips, recipes, and gear reviews? Subscribe to my channel and follow along for the full backyard BBQ journey.