Spit Roasting at Home | What You Actually Need to Get Started

Spit roasting has long been part of Australian outdoor cooking. From backyard lamb roasts to slow-spinning chickens on a Sunday afternoon, it’s one of the most relaxed and social ways to cook for family and friends.

If you’re new to spit roasting, choosing the right setup can feel confusing. This guide covers the basics first, then walks through the different levels of spit roasters, so you can work out what suits how you actually cook — not just what looks impressive.

If you’re still getting a feel for what’s available, it can help to browse the full range of spits and rotisseries to see different sizes and fuel options side by side before narrowing things down.

The Basics: What to Consider Before Buying a Spit Rotisserie

Before choosing a spit, it’s worth understanding a few key factors that affect how practical it will be at home.

Space and Setup

Spit roasters don’t require a full outdoor kitchen, but they do need:

• Flat, stable ground

• Clearance from walls, fences and flammable surfaces

• Some protection from wind

If you’re planning a more permanent cooking area, a spit can work well alongside BBQs and prep benches as part of a broader outdoor setup. Many people eventually incorporate their spit into a dedicated zone like an outdoor kitchen, especially if they cook regularly.

Fuel Type: Gas, Charcoal or Both

Fuel choice affects flavour, ease of use and how involved the cooking process is.

• Charcoal suits slow cooking and people who enjoy managing heat

• Gas offers consistency and quicker setup

• Dual fuel provides flexibility depending on the occasion

The best choice comes down to how often you cook and how hands-on you want to be.

Capacity and What You’ll Cook

Think realistically about your most common cooks:

• Chickens or small roasts for family meals

• Larger cuts for weekend entertaining

• Whole animals for special occasions

Buying too small can be limiting, but oversizing can be unnecessary if you’re mostly cooking for a few people.

Motor Strength and Balance

A reliable motor is essential, especially for heavier loads. A stronger motor:

• Turns food smoothly and consistently

• Reduces strain during long cooks

• Helps ensure even cooking

Proper balance on the spit also improves results and prolongs motor life.

Entry-Level Spit Roasters: Simple and Easy to Use

Entry-level spits are ideal if you’re just getting started or only cook on a spit occasionally.

They’re best for:

• Chickens and smaller roasts

• Casual entertaining

• Portable or temporary setups

These spits are easy to manage, quick to set up and a great way to learn the basics without overcommitting.

Mid-Range Spit Roasters: 1200mm with More Capacity and Control

Mid-range spits suit households that cook more often or regularly entertain.

They generally offer:

• Larger cooking space

• Stronger frames and motors

• Better heat control

This level suits people who want reliability and flexibility without moving into oversized equipment.

Top Tier Spit Roasters: "The Big Dog" Built for Whole Animals

Heavy-duty spits are designed for large loads and frequent use.

They’re best suited for:

• Whole animals

• Large gatherings

• Permanent outdoor setups

If you regularly cook for crowds or want something that will last for years with minimal fuss, this is where the investment makes sense.

Final Thoughts

A good spit roaster doesn’t need to be complicated — it just needs to suit how you cook and how often you’ll use it. Starting with the right size and fuel type makes spit roasting easier, more enjoyable and far more social.

If you’re exploring outdoor cooking more broadly, spending time on the Outdoor Living Abode site can also help you see how different cooking options work together, from spits and BBQs through to full outdoor setups.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spit Roasters

Do I need a permanent setup to use a spit roaster?

No. Many spit roasters are designed to be portable and work well on flat ground in a backyard or patio area. A permanent setup only becomes useful if you cook on a spit regularly or want it integrated into a broader outdoor cooking space.

Is charcoal or gas better for first-time spit roasting?

Both work well for beginners. Charcoal suits people who enjoy managing heat and cooking at a slower pace, while gas is easier to control and quicker to start. If you value simplicity, gas is often the easier option to learn on.

How much food can I realistically cook on a spit?

That depends on the size and strength of the spit. Entry-level models are ideal for chickens and smaller roasts, mid-range spits handle larger cuts and multiple items, and heavy-duty spits are designed for whole animals and large gatherings.