Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill Review

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When it comes to grilling, finding the perfect grill is no small task. As someone who loves outdoor cooking and hosting weekend BBQs, I’ve used several grills over the years, each with its own strengths and quirks. Recently, I had the chance to try the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill, and I’ve been using it consistently for a few months now. Spoiler alert: it’s become my go-to grill. While it’s not without a few minor drawbacks, it delivers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and versatility that suits both casual grillers and enthusiasts.

Let me take you through my detailed experience with this grill, from its standout features to the practicalities of using it day-to-day.

Why I Chose the Napoleon Prestige 500

Before deciding on the Napoleon Prestige 500, I spent weeks researching different grills. I needed something that could handle a variety of cooking styles, was easy to use, and could cater to a larger group when needed. What caught my eye about this grill were its strong reviews and impressive specs, including a sizable cooking surface, an infrared side burner, and a reputation for even heat distribution.

When the grill arrived, I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.

Unboxing and First Setup

The unboxing process was a breeze. Everything was securely packed, and the stainless steel components immediately gave off a premium feel. It came with clear assembly instructions, and while I usually dread assembling large items, I managed to put it together solo in just under an hour.

One thing I appreciated was how well thought out the assembly process was. Each part was labeled clearly, and tools were included, which saved me from rummaging around for the right wrench. The grill looked stunning once set up—a sleek stainless steel design that gave my backyard a polished, professional vibe.

Features That Stand Out in the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill

After using the grill regularly, there are a few standout features that make it unique and worth considering:

1. Versatile Cooking Options
   Whether I’m cooking burgers for a small family dinner or hosting a full-on barbecue with friends, the Napoleon Prestige 500 gives me plenty of room to work. The four stainless steel burners are powerful, and the additional warming rack ensures I can keep things like buns and sides ready without overcrowding the primary cooking area.

   The addition of the infrared side burner has been a game-changer. I love using it for quick, high-heat searing of steaks or even preparing sauces while my main dishes cook on the larger grill.

2. Wave Grates for Better Heat Distribution
   The wave-shaped grates not only look great but serve a practical purpose. I’ve noticed that the heat is distributed evenly across the entire cooking area, which is something I can’t say for many other grills I’ve owned. It also makes cooking smaller items, like shrimp or sliced vegetables, less of a hassle since they don’t slip through the grates.

3. Jetfire Ignition System
   I can’t overstate how much I appreciate the convenience of the Jetfire ignition system. It’s reliable and fires up instantly every single time. I’ve owned grills where ignition was hit-or-miss, and nothing is more frustrating when you’re ready to cook. With the Napoleon Prestige 500, it’s one less thing to worry about.

4. Built-in Temperature Control
   The Accu-Probe temperature gauge is another feature I’ve come to rely on. Whether I’m slow-cooking ribs or grilling chicken breasts, having an accurate reading of the internal temperature ensures I’m always in control. It’s especially helpful when I’m trying more complex recipes.

5. Rotisserie-Ready Design
   While I haven’t purchased the optional rotisserie kit yet, I love that the grill is designed with this feature in mind. It opens up so many possibilities, from roasting whole chickens to creating beautifully browned pork roasts. It’s something I’m excited to experiment with in the future.

My Grilling Experience with the Napoleon Prestige 500

From my first test run to now, using the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill has been a consistently enjoyable experience. Here’s a closer look at some of my favorite use cases:

Cooking for a Crowd

A few weekends ago, I hosted a backyard gathering with about 10 people, and this grill handled everything I threw at it. With 500 square inches of cooking space, I was able to prepare a mix of burgers, chicken thighs, and grilled veggies simultaneously. The warming rack came in handy for keeping the first batch of food hot while I finished up the rest.

Perfectly Seared Steaks

The infrared side burner has become my go-to tool for searing steaks. It reaches incredibly high temperatures in seconds, locking in juices and creating that perfect crust. Once seared, I transfer the steaks to the main grill for slower, even cooking. It’s a level of control I haven’t had with other grills.

Versatility for Everyday Meals

Not every grilling session has to be a big event. Sometimes, I just want to grill a couple of chicken breasts or a quick veggie medley for dinner. This grill is equally suited for smaller meals. I’ve even used the warming rack to toast garlic bread while grilling, and the results were fantastic.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Is It Easy to Keep Up?

After a few messy grilling sessions, I was relieved to find that cleaning the Napoleon Prestige 500 is surprisingly easy. The wave grates are simple to scrub down, and the stainless steel surfaces wipe clean with minimal effort. The drip tray slides out smoothly, making grease disposal a breeze.

One thing I’ve learned from past grills is that regular maintenance goes a long way in extending their lifespan. With this model, it doesn’t feel like a chore. I give it a quick clean after every use, and it still looks as good as new.

Things to Consider Before Buying

While the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill has been a fantastic addition to my outdoor cooking setup, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Price: This is definitely an investment. If you’re new to grilling or don’t cook outdoors often, it might feel like overkill. However, if you grill regularly and value durability and performance, it’s worth the cost.
• Size: While it’s not the largest grill on the market, it does take up a decent amount of space. Make sure you have enough room in your backyard or patio to accommodate it comfortably.

Conclusion on Using the Napoleon Prestige 500

I’ve been using the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill for several months now, and it’s become an integral part of my outdoor cooking routine. Whether I’m experimenting with new recipes or sticking to tried-and-true classics, it delivers consistent results that I can rely on.

The combination of even heat distribution, versatile features like the infrared side burner, and durable construction make it a standout choice for anyone serious about grilling. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the performance and quality more than justify the price.

If you’re looking for a grill that can handle everything from casual weeknight meals to full-scale barbecues, I’d highly recommend checking out the Napoleon Prestige 500. It’s made outdoor cooking more enjoyable and stress-free for me, and I’m excited to keep discovering what it can do.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill

Q: What is the cooking area size of the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The grill offers a total of 500 square inches of primary cooking space, which is enough to cook up to 31 burgers at once. Additionally, there’s a warming rack that adds more cooking area, making it ideal for hosting large gatherings.

Q: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 have an infrared burner?
A: Yes, the grill comes with a powerful infrared side burner. It’s perfect for high-heat searing, allowing you to achieve steakhouse-quality results at home.

Q: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 compatible with a rotisserie kit?
A: Absolutely! The grill is designed to be rotisserie-ready. However, the rotisserie kit is sold separately and is not included with the grill.

Q: How durable is the grill, and does it resist rust?
A: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is made of high-quality stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion. With proper maintenance and cleaning, it is built to last for years, even in outdoor environments.

Q: How does the Jetfire ignition system work?
A: The Jetfire ignition system is a reliable way to start the grill. It uses a single spark to ignite the burners individually, ensuring that the grill lights up quickly and safely every time.

Q: Can I use the Napoleon Prestige 500 for slow cooking and smoking?
A: Yes, the grill is excellent for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow cooking. You can use indirect heat by turning off specific burners and placing your food away from the direct flame. Adding a smoker box is also an option for smoking.

Q: How easy is it to clean the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: Cleaning is straightforward. The stainless steel grates and surfaces wipe clean easily, and the drip pan is removable for hassle-free grease disposal. Regular maintenance will keep the grill in top condition.

Q: How much propane does the Napoleon Prestige 500 consume?
A: The grill is efficient with propane usage. It features four main burners that deliver up to 48,000 BTUs and an infrared burner with 18,000 BTUs. A standard 20 lb propane tank typically lasts for several hours of cooking, depending on heat settings.

Q: Does the grill come pre-assembled?
A: No, the Napoleon Prestige 500 requires assembly upon delivery. However, the process is straightforward, with clear instructions included. It typically takes about an hour to assemble.

Q: Can I move the grill easily?
A: Yes, the grill is equipped with locking caster wheels that make it easy to move around your patio or backyard. Once positioned, you can lock the wheels to keep it securely in place.