An American Story

The history of grilling at Kingsford is a classic American story. It all started in 1919 when Edward G. Kingsford helped Henry Ford procure a stretch of timberland to supply wood for his auto plants.

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Kingsford® Preserve the Pit

Kingsford remains committed to celebrating Black barbecue culture by launching the second year of Preserve the Pit and doubling the investment in aspiring barbecue professionals.

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American Pride

An American-made company founded over 100 years ago, Kingsford has a lot to be proud of. Our employees have been continuing the family tradition in backyards across the nation.

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The Kingsford Difference

Kingsford has been fueling legendary grills since 1920, and we’re still America’s #1 charcoal for good reason. Our briquets light faster, burn longer, and deliver the high heat you need for exceptional results. Whether you’re searing steaks or savoring smoky flavors, one thing’s for certain — nothing beats the original.

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Kingsford®

Original Charcoal

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  • 100% natural ingredients
  • Ready to cook on in 15 minutes
  • Long burn time*

Since 1920, Kingsford® Original Charcoal has been the gold standard of grilling. Made in the USA with North American ingredients. With 100% natural ingredients, Kingsford® Original gives BBQ lovers the smoky wood-fired flavor they crave. Our Original briquets are great for any grilling occasion. Whether you’re smoking a brisket, grilling up vegetables or firing up the grill at your next tailgate, Kingsford® Original delivers the best in authentic BBQ flavor. In fact, Kingsford® lights faster than competitive brands, giving you the ultimate grilling experience — every time. Available in a variety of sizes, from 4-lb. to 2x20-lb. bags.

† Compared to nationally available conventional charcoal in the U.S.A.
  • *Compared to other charcoal brands.
The Kingsford Difference

Blue Bag

When it’s time to fire up the grill, choose the original. Kingsford charcoal is designed to light fast, burn long, and cook hot, giving you quick starts and wood-fired finishes. From steaks seared to perfection to the irresistible flavor of smoky goodness, Kingsford delivers.

Watch the video to see why Kingsford is America’s #1 charcoal.*

* Based on IRI Unit Sales Data

The Kingsford Difference

Designed Stronger for Fewer Breaks*

When it comes to grilling, strength matters. In our Drop Test, Kingsford briquets stay intact, while the competition crumbles. Why does that matter? Because strong briquets mean less waste.

Watch our Drop Test video and see the difference for yourself.

* Compared to Jealous Devil Max XL Charcoal Briquets

The Kingsford Difference

Quicker Cooks

For grillers who demand the best, Kingsford delivers. When tested, our steak reached 135°F in just 7 minutes, leaving our competition in the dust. While their meat stays raw*, Kingsford serves up steaks cooked to perfection. Nothing beats the original when it comes to speed, heat and flavor.

Ready to see the Steak Test for yourself? Watch the video.*

* Always ensure you cook for adequate time to reach USDA requirements.

† Kingsford® Original Charcoal Briquets compared to Jealous Devil Max XL Charcoal Briquets

Pairs well with this recipe

Grilled Ribeye

Grilling thick cut ribeye steaks to perfection is simple, fast and fit for every occasion.

Get the Recipe
Learn

How to Grill with Charcoal

Everything you need to know about grilling with classic Kingsford® charcoal and charcoal grills.

Learn How
Reviews
4.7
4409 Reviews
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Smoky Flavor with consistent burn makes this a gre Kingsford Charcoal is a reliable choice for grilling, known for its consistent burn and smoky flavor. The charcoal lights easily, burns evenly, and provides a steady heat that’s perfect for both direct and indirect grilling. Its distinct, rich aroma adds an authentic smokiness to food, making it a favorite among casual and seasoned grillers alike. While it can produce some ash buildup, it’s a dependable and affordable option for outdoor cooking. Overall, Kingsford delivers quality performance for those seeking a hassle-free grilling experience.
Date published: 2024-12-19
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Great Very good charcoal. Cooks all my steaks and meats with a perfect flavor packed from the charcoal. Will continue to use this brand in the future. Heat output is always amazing .
Date published: 2024-12-18
Rated 5 out of 5 by from The best This is the only charcoal I use in my little grill and it does a great job. I use a chimney starter to help get it going with some newspaper and it works perfectly every time. Highly recommend this brand as it doesn’t create a crazy amount of ash.
Date published: 2024-12-15
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Really love I love this so much lights up fast unlike other brands really love how it grills really fast and the heats extreme makes it have more flavor on the mean or chicken.
Date published: 2024-12-10
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Love this brand Since 1920, Kingsford® Original Charcoal has been the gold standard of grilling. Made in the USA with North American ingredients. With 100% natural ingredients, Kingsford® Original gives BBQ lovers the smoky wood-fired flavor they crave. Our Original briquets are great for any grilling occasion. Whether you’re smoking a brisket, grilling up vegetables or firing up the grill at your next tailgate, Kingsford® Original delivers the best in authentic BBQ flavor. In fact, Kingsford® lights faster† than competitive brands, giving you the ultimate grilling experience — every time. Available in a variety of sizes, from 4-lb. to 2x20-lb. bags. Heat output is pretty modern! Burn time is about 2 hours. Ash production is pretty slow as well!
Date published: 2024-12-10
Rated 5 out of 5 by from This is the best brand. We use Kingsford charcoal all the time when barbecuing. The ash production is great. Burn time is amazing. They have different flavors of charcoal. It doesn't take long for it to ignite, so the Ignition time is great as well.
Date published: 2024-12-09
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Works well I have always preferred kingsford brand charcoal for grilling. It works well, fairly priced, durable packaging that doesn’t bust open easily; just all in all it’s the best charcoal.
Date published: 2024-12-07
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Kingsford Charcoal Good value for the money. It burns well and produces steady heat. It’s very easy to light and use for grilling. It provides very little smoke when using.
Date published: 2024-12-07
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Best for you BBQ The briquettes ignite easily and reach cooking temperature quickly, which is perfect for when you don’t want to wait too long to start cooking. Once lit, they burn evenly and provide consistent heat throughout the cooking process. What I love most is the flavor enhancement—thanks to the real wood ingredients, it adds a genuine smoky taste to the food. Whether you’re grilling burgers, chicken, or veggies, this charcoal never disappoints. Highly recommend it for both beginners and seasoned grill masters.
Date published: 2024-12-06
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Good charcoal brand I like to use Kingsford charcoal because I like the smell of it. It makes my food taste better and the heat and burn time is perfect. I always use this brand when it comes to BBQ and charcoal.
Date published: 2024-12-06
Rated 4 out of 5 by from Kingsford charcoal I like how easy it is to use Kingsford charcoal and the amount of Heat output on the grill is good and the burn time is good and it last even after you stop cooking and the Ignition time is less then 3 minutes and the Ash production is good and I use the Ash for my garden and some brands have a flavor but the original charcoal has a lite taste and flavor
Date published: 2024-12-05
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Made the Chicken taste good & the Charcoal was a g This charcoal lit quickly & gave the chicken a great flavor & the heat output was great. The ash residue was not a lot.I think the Charcoal cooked the chicken faster.Love it ❤️
Date published: 2024-12-05
Rated 5 out of 5 by from The Best Of All Time For as long as I can remember kingsford charcoal has been the family go to for grilling out . Rather it be at home or camping this is a staple for barbecuing. The food cooks perfectly and with the best grill taste hands down .
Date published: 2024-12-04
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Great charcoal! ❤️ Kingsford Original Charcoal is a solid choice for casual grilling. It offers a reliable performance at an affordable price, making it a great option for those who simply want to fire up the grill and enjoy a backyard cookout. However, if you're a serious grilling enthusiast who demands the purest flavor and minimal ash, you might want to explore premium charcoal options.
Date published: 2024-12-03
Rated 5 out of 5 by from Best charcoal for grilling! Kingford is our main charcoal for grilling. We love the flavor it gives off in the grilled meats and how long it lasts. It lasts a long time and makes our food delicious,
Date published: 2024-12-02
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Light your fire with Kingsford® products.

Explore our full range of charcoal, pellets and flavor boosters to take your grilling to the next level.