Pit Barrel Cooker Review: A Closer Look at the Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Device

Join us today as we embark on an exciting journey with our Pit Barrel Cooker Review. We'll delve into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of this remarkable cooking device. 

By the time you finish reading this post, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of whether the Pit Barrel Cooker deserves a special place in your outdoor cooking adventures.

Magical Outdoor cooking

There's something magical about outdoor cooking—it brings people together, ignites taste buds, and creates cherished memories. And now, there's a newcomer on the scene that has sparked the interest of grilling enthusiasts far and wide—the Pit Barrel Cooker.

What to expect

In this review, we'll unravel the mysteries surrounding this culinary gem. What sets it apart from the rest? Why has it become the talk of the town? We'll answer these questions and more as we uncover the secrets behind its mouthwatering flavors.

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and explore whether the Pit Barrel Cooker lives up to the tremendous hype surrounding it. It's time to ignite your taste buds and discover the magic this unique cooking tool has to offer.

Pit barrel cooker review - What is the Pit Barrel Cooker?

The Pit Barrel Cooker is an amazing cooking device that can take your outdoor cooking to a whole new level. Created by Noah Glanville and his wife Amber in 2010, this vertical drum smoker has quickly become a favorite among grilling enthusiasts. 

Its simple design and incredible flavor results have made it a sensation in the world of outdoor cooking.

A Simple and Effective Design

Unlike other smokers that can be complicated and intimidating, the Pit Barrel Cooker keeps things straightforward. It features a vertical drum shape that acts as the cooking chamber. 

This drum is where the magic happens! The Pit Barrel Cooker uses the power of charcoal to create delicious smoky flavors in your food.

Unique Hook-and-Hang Method

One of the standout features of the Pit Barrel Cooker is its ingenious hook-and-hang method. Instead of placing your food directly on a grill or rack, you can hang it inside the drum using specially designed hooks. 

This allows the food to be suspended vertically, surrounded by flavorful smoke and heat. As a result, the food cooks evenly and becomes incredibly tender and juicy.

An Easy and Flavorful Cooking Experience

With the Pit Barrel Cooker, you don't have to be a professional chef to create mouth watering dishes. Its user-friendly design makes it perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Once you set it up and light the charcoal, the Pit Barrel Cooker does most of the work for you. It maintains a consistent cooking temperature, allowing you to relax and enjoy the outdoor cooking experience.

Why People Love the Pit Barrel Cooker

The Pit Barrel Cooker has gained a massive following for several reasons. Firstly, it produces amazing flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

The combination of charcoal, smoke, and the hanging method creates a unique and delicious taste that you won't find with other cooking devices.

Additionally, the Pit Barrel Cooker is versatile. Whether you're grilling burgers, smoking ribs, or even roasting vegetables, this cooker can handle it all. Its spacious drum can accommodate a good amount of food, making it ideal for small gatherings or family meals.
pit barrel cooker review ribs on the cooker

Pit Barrel Cooker Review - Why is it so popular?

One of the primary reasons for the Pit Barrel Cooker's immense popularity is its incredible versatility. Whether you're craving mouth watering brisket, succulent chicken, or flavorful ribs, this cooker can handle it all. 

The design and cooking method of the Pit Barrel Cooker make it suitable for a wide range of dishes. 

No matter your preference, you can explore various recipes and experiment with different flavors to create unforgettable meals.

Affordability Compared to Other Smokers

Another factor that contributes to the Pit Barrel Cooker's popularity is its affordability. While some smokers can be quite expensive, the Pit Barrel Cooker provides exceptional value for its price. 

It offers a high-quality cooking experience without breaking the bank. This makes it accessible to a wide range of outdoor cooking enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned grill masters.

Easy to Use for All Skill Levels

Even if you're new to outdoor cooking, the Pit Barrel Cooker is designed with simplicity in mind. It doesn't require extensive knowledge or expertise to operate. 

With easy-to-follow instructions and a straightforward setup process, you'll be cooking like a pro in no time. 

The Pit Barrel Cooker takes the guesswork out of outdoor cooking, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process and savoring the flavors.

Mouth watering Results

The most compelling reason why the Pit Barrel Cooker has gained such widespread popularity is its ability to produce incredibly delicious, tender, and juicy meat. The unique cooking method, which involves hanging the food vertically, allows the meat to self-baste as the juices drip down. 

This results in moist and flavorful dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. 

Whether you're serving your creations to family, friends, or hosting a backyard barbecue, the Pit Barrel Cooker will undoubtedly impress with its exceptional flavor output.

The Pit Barrel Cooker's popularity is well-deserved

The Pit Barrel Cooker's popularity is well-deserved, thanks to its versatility, affordability, ease of use, and mouthwatering results. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned outdoor cooking enthusiast, this cooker offers a fantastic cooking experience that will leave you wanting more. 

So, if you're looking for an outdoor cooking device that can handle various dishes, won't break the bank, and consistently delivers delicious and juicy results, the Pit Barrel Cooker is undoubtedly worth considering.

pit barrel cooker review on sidewalk

Pit Barrel Cooker Review - built with simplicity and durability in mind

The Pit Barrel Cooker is built with simplicity and durability in mind. It is made of high-quality steel, ensuring its longevity and resistance to the outdoor elements. 

The cooker's drum has a diameter of 18.5 inches and stands at 31 inches tall, providing ample cooking space for larger cuts of meat.

Its sturdy construction and powder-coated finish make it capable of withstanding high cooking temperatures.

Key Features

The Pit Barrel Cooker's standout feature is its unique hook-and-hang method of cooking. Instead of using traditional grates or racks, the cooker is equipped with hooks on the inside of the drum. 

This allows you to hang your meat, poultry, or fish, ensuring even heat distribution and smoke penetration. 

The result is perfectly cooked food with juicy and tender results. 

Cooking Performance

The Pit Barrel Cooker excels in its cooking performance. The hook-and-hang method, combined with the consistent heat generated by charcoal, creates a cooking environment that produces flavorful and moist food. 

The circulating smoke adds an extra layer of depth to the taste, enhancing the overall cooking experience. Whether you're grilling steaks, smoking ribs, or roasting a whole chicken, the Pit Barrel Cooker delivers consistent and delicious results.

Convenience and Cleanup

In terms of convenience, the Pit Barrel Cooker offers several features that make your outdoor cooking experience hassle-free. The removable ash pan makes cleanup a breeze by collecting the ashes, making it easy to dispose of them once you're done cooking. 

The cooker's straightforward design and user-friendly setup ensure that even those new to outdoor cooking can operate it with ease. With the Pit Barrel Cooker, you can spend less time worrying about complicated setup and cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious meals.

In conclusion, the Pit Barrel Cooker's design and features are tailored to provide a simple yet efficient cooking experience. 

Its durable construction, hook-and-hang method contribute to its ability to produce delicious and juicy food. With convenient cleanup options and user-friendly operation, the Pit Barrel Cooker is a great addition to any outdoor cooking enthusiast's arsenal. 

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned grill master, this cooker offers a reliable and enjoyable cooking experience that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Pit Barrel Cooker Review - Performance and Results

When it comes to cooking food, the Pit Barrel Cooker delivers exceptional performance and mouth watering results. The combination of heat and smoke generated by the charcoal infuses the food with a unique and delicious flavor profile that's hard to replicate with other cooking methods.

Whether you're grilling, smoking, or roasting, the Pit Barrel Cooker consistently produces impressive flavors that will leave your taste buds delighted.

One of the standout features of the Pit Barrel Cooker is its ability to create tender and juicy meat. 

The hook-and-hang method of cooking allows the meat to be suspended inside the drum, ensuring even heat distribution and optimal smoke penetration. 

This results in meats that are incredibly tender, moist, and packed with flavor. 

Whether you're cooking a succulent brisket, a flavorful chicken, or mouthwatering pork ribs, the Pit Barrel Cooker consistently delivers impressive and satisfying results.

Considerations for Cooking Style

While the Pit Barrel Cooker excels in many aspects, it's important to note that it is primarily designed for hot and fast cooking rather than low and slow cooking. 

This means that if you're planning to smoke a brisket for a long duration, the Pit Barrel Cooker may not be the ideal choice.

However, for most other cuts of meat, such as chicken, ribs, or pork shoulder, the cooker performs exceptionally well and produces delicious results.

Verdict on Performance

In conclusion, the Pit Barrel Cooker's performance in cooking food is highly impressive. It consistently delivers mouthwatering flavors, thanks to the combination of heat and smoke generated by the charcoal. 

The hook-and-hang method ensures that the meat is cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy bites. 

While it may not be the top choice for low and slow cooking, the Pit Barrel Cooker excels in hot and fast cooking methods. 

Whether you're grilling, smoking, or roasting, this cooker will elevate your outdoor cooking experience and leave you with satisfying and delicious meals.

pit barrel cooker review pork tenderloin

Pit Barrel Cooker Review - User Experience

The Pit Barrel Cooker is designed with user-friendly features that make it easy to assemble and set up. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor cook or a beginner, you'll find the process straightforward and hassle-free. 

The cooker comes with clear instructions and minimal parts, allowing you to have it up and running in no time. Within an hour, you'll be ready to start cooking and enjoying the flavors of your favorite dishes.

Simplified Cooking Process

Using the Pit Barrel Cooker is a breeze, even if you're new to outdoor cooking. Once the cooker is set up, the process is simple and intuitive. 

Just light the charcoal, hang your meat on the hooks inside the drum, and let the cooker do its magic. 

There's no need for complex temperature adjustments or constant monitoring. 

The Pit Barrel Cooker is designed to maintain a consistent temperature, allowing you to relax and enjoy the cooking process without constant intervention.

Straightforward Cleaning

Cleaning up after cooking with the Pit Barrel Cooker is relatively easy. The cooker features a removable ash pan, which makes disposing of ashes and charcoal remnants a simple task. 

After your cooking session, you can easily remove the ash pan and discard the debris. 

The drum itself can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge to keep it clean and ready for your next outdoor cooking adventure.

Customer Support and Warranty

When it comes to customer support and warranty, the Pit Barrel Cooker excels. 

It comes with a one-year warranty, ensuring that any defects in materials or workmanship are covered. 

The company behind the cooker also provides excellent customer support. 

Their knowledgeable team is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about the cooker, ensuring a positive and satisfying experience.

Exceptional User Experience

In conclusion, the Pit Barrel Cooker offers an exceptional user experience. It is designed to be user-friendly, with easy assembly and setup. 

The cooking process is simplified, allowing you to focus on enjoying your food without the need for constant adjustments. 

Cleaning up is straightforward, thanks to the removable ash pan and easy-to-wipe drum. 

Additionally, the Pit Barrel Cooker comes with a one-year warranty and excellent customer support, providing peace of mind and assistance when needed. 

With its user-centric features, this cooker ensures that your outdoor cooking experience is enjoyable and hassle-free.

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Pit Barrel Cooker Review Pros And Cons:

The Pit Barrel Cooker has some good things about it. It's easy to use and makes food taste yummy. You can cook lots of different foods on it.

But it doesn't have buttons to control the temperature, so it might not be perfect for all kinds of cooking. It's also not very big, so you can't cook a lot of food at once.

Lets take a look at some of the pros and cons of this cooking device.

Pros

  • Easy to use and assemble 
  • Produces delicious, tender, and juicy meat
  • Relatively affordable
  • Requires minimal expertise to operate
  • Durable and made of high-quality materials

Cons

  • Not designed for low and slow cooking
  • Challenging temperature control
  • May not be suitable for large cuts of meat
  • Possible coating issues over time

ConClusion

While the Pit Barrel Cooker offers many advantages, such as its ease of use, delicious results, affordability, accessibility, and durability, it also has a few limitations to consider. 

These include its focus on hot and fast cooking rather than low and slow, potential challenges in maintaining precise temperature control, size restrictions for larger cuts of meat, and occasional reports of coating issues. 

By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether the Pit Barrel Cooker is the right choice for your outdoor cooking needs.

Pit Barrel Cooker Review - Is It Worth the Investment?

When deciding whether the Pit Barrel Cooker is worth the investment, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. 

Here's our analysis:

Affordable and Easy to Use

The Pit Barrel Cooker offers a budget-friendly option for outdoor cooking. It's designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced cooks.

If you're seeking a hassle-free cooking experience without breaking the bank, the Pit Barrel Cooker is a solid choice.

Delicious and Juicy Meat

One of the standout features of the Pit Barrel Cooker is its ability to consistently produce delicious, tender, and juicy meat. 

The unique hook-and-hang method, combined with the flavors from charcoal, ensures mouthwatering results. 

If you're looking to impress your taste buds and those of your friends and family, the Pit Barrel Cooker can deliver on flavor.

Versatile Cooking Options

The Pit Barrel Cooker provides versatility in outdoor cooking. You can prepare various cuts of meat, from brisket to chicken to pork ribs, allowing you to explore different recipes and flavors.

Its cooking capabilities make it suitable for a range of dishes, expanding your culinary options.

Considerations for Alternative Options

When thinking about other choices instead of the Pit Barrel Cooker, it's important to think about things like how many different ways you can cook with it, how easy it is to control the temperature, and how much food you can cook at once.

Some other popular options, like kamado grills or pellet smokers, might let you control the temperature more precisely and cook in different ways, while offset smokers can cook more food but take up more space.

The best alternative option will depend on what you like and what you need for cooking.

Traditional Smokers

Traditional smokers offer precise temperature control and longer cooking times, making them ideal for low and slow cooking. 

If you enjoy the process of tending to a fire and have the time to invest in lengthier cooking sessions, a traditional smoker might be a better fit for your needs.

Pellet Grills

Pellet grills combine the convenience of gas grills with the flavor of charcoal smokers. They offer precise temperature control and are versatile in cooking styles.

If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach with automated temperature management, a pellet grill could be a suitable alternative to consider.

Kamado-Style Cookers

Kamado-style cookers, like ceramic grills, provide excellent heat retention and versatility in cooking methods. 

They are known for their ability to grill, smoke, and bake, making them a multifunctional choice. 

If you're seeking a versatile cooker with superior heat retention and durability, a kamado-style cooker might be worth exploring.


Pit Barrel Cooker Review: FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use the Pit Barrel Cooker for low and slow cooking?

A: While the Pit Barrel Cooker is primarily designed for hot and fast cooking, it can still be used for low and slow cooking to some extent. However, it may not be the ideal choice for long-duration smoking, such as smoking a brisket. It excels in cooking cuts of meat like chicken, ribs, and pork shoulder.

Q: How much food can the Pit Barrel Cooker accommodate?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker has a spacious drum that can accommodate a good amount of food. It provides ample cooking space for larger cuts of meat, making it suitable for small gatherings or family meals. However, for those who frequently cook for large groups, the size of the cooker may be a limitation.

Q: Does the Pit Barrel Cooker come with precise temperature control?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker does not offer precise temperature control. It is designed to maintain a consistent cooking temperature, but it does not have adjustable dials or thermostats. This may pose challenges for certain cooking techniques that require precise temperature control.

Q: How easy is it to clean the Pit Barrel Cooker?

A: Cleaning the Pit Barrel Cooker is relatively easy. It features a removable ash pan that collects the ashes and charcoal remnants, making it convenient to dispose of them. The drum can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge to keep it clean. Overall, the cleaning process is straightforward and hassle-free.

Q: What kind of support and warranty does the Pit Barrel Cooker offer?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker comes with a one-year warranty, ensuring that any defects in materials or workmanship are covered. The company also provides excellent customer support, with a knowledgeable team ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about the cooker. They strive to ensure a positive and satisfying experience for their customers.


Pit Barrel Cooker Review Conclusion: 

Ultimately, the best outdoor cooking device for you depends on your specific preferences and cooking goals. 

The Pit Barrel Cooker offers affordability, ease of use, and flavorful results, making it a popular choice. 

However, alternative options like traditional smokers, pellet grills, and kamado-style cookers provide unique features that may better align with your specific needs.

The key is to do thorough research, consider your cooking style, and prioritize what matters most to you in an outdoor cooker. 

Whether you choose the Pit Barrel Cooker or explore other options, remember that the most important thing is to have fun, experiment with different recipes, and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing delicious food with your loved ones.

Make sure to comeback to SmokyBeginnings.com as we are continuously adding new recipes and tips to the site.

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About the author 

CJ Ferrara

CJ Ferrara is a BBQ enthusiast, who shares his passion for grilling and smoking meats with the readers of Smoky Beginnings. When he isn't grilling, smoking meat, or writing BBQ-focused articles you can catch him spending time with his family and enjoying a sporting event.


Find out more about CJ on our About Us page


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