CGS Preferred XL Cast Iron Option — Large CI Grid on XL Woo/Spider

Our Preferred XL Cast Iron Option — Large CI Grid on XL Woo & Spider

For cast-iron grilling on the XL Big Green Egg, we prefer using the Large Big Green Egg Round Cast Iron Grid on either the CGS XL Woo or CGS XL Spider. The grid’s size, weight, and—most importantly—how it sits over the XL firebox make it a smarter, easier, and more affordable choice than using two XL half-moon cast iron grids.

Why We Prefer the Large Cast Iron (CI) Grid

• Perfect Match to the XL Lump Grate: The 18" Large CI grid nearly matches the 17.5" XL lump grate. This creates an even fire under the entire grid—temps at the edge match temps at the center for consistent grilling.
• Full Grid is Usable: The entire CI grid sits inside the fire ring, not on top of it. Plus, no space is lost to half-moon corners or dead spots.
• XL Woo or EGGspander: Both systems position the Large CI grid near the top of the fire ring—the same cooking height as the XL half-moon CI grids.
• XL Spider: Drop the Large CI grid down inside the fire ring. This places the grid closer to the fire for a hotter sear.
• Lighter & Easier to Handle: Significantly easier to lift, rotate, clean, and store compared to two heavy XL half-moon grids.
• More Versatile XL Setups: Works seamlessly with CGS deflectors, and multi-grid configurations.
• Added Savings: The Large CI grid costs about the same as one XL half-moon CI grid—freeing up the budget for the Woo, Spider, or your pocket.

XL Woo Highlights

• Positions the Large CI grid near the top of the fire ring
• Supports multi-level cooking on XL Adjustable Rig or Flexible 2nd Grid
• Compatible with CGS deflectors

XL Spider Highlights

• Pairs with all CGS XL Spiders
• Drops the CI grid inside the fire ring for maximum searing heat
• Pairs perfectly with the XL Adjustable Rig and Flexible 2nd Grid for full XL flexibility

Why This Works Better Than an XL Cast Iron Grid

The Large CI grid gives you the same searing capability with less weight, easier handling, better heat coverage, and more flexibility. It heats faster, moves easier, and integrates naturally into all CGS XL setups—without the bulk or awkwardness of full-size XL cast iron.

This setup is our preferred cast-iron solution for the XL Big Green Egg: large CI performance, better handling, and total compatibility with the XL Woo and XL Spider.