Blackstone Grills and Griddles

Blackstone grills and griddles are flat top cooking machines that give you a huge, even cooking surface for everything from burgers to breakfast. They use propane, heat up fast, and work great for backyard gatherings or tailgating. This guide covers how to pick the right size, season your griddle, and keep it running for years.

Key Takeaways

• Flat Top Design: Blackstone griddles offer a large, flat cooking surface that replaces multiple pans and lets you cook many foods at once.
• Easy to Season: With the right oil and technique, you can build a natural nonstick surface that improves with every use.
• Multiple Sizes Available: From compact 17-inch models to spacious 36-inch griddles, there is a Blackstone size for every backyard and budget.
• Propane Powered: Most Blackstone griddles run on standard propane tanks, making them portable and easy to set up anywhere.
• Low Maintenance: Regular cleaning and proper storage keep your griddle in top shape for many cooking seasons.

What Are Blackstone Grills and Griddles?

When you hear the term Blackstone grills and griddles, you are talking about flat top cooking surfaces made from cold-rolled steel. These are not your typical gas grills with grates. Instead, they give you a smooth, flat cooking area that works like a giant stovetop outside.

The company Blackstone has become a household name in outdoor cooking. Their griddles come in several sizes, from small portable units to large setups that can feed a crowd. People use them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. You can cook eggs, pancakes, steaks, veggies, and even pizza on one of these flat tops.

What makes Blackstone stand out is the simplicity of the design. There are no complicated parts to figure out. You connect a propane tank, turn the knobs, and wait a few minutes for the surface to heat up. That is it. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned outdoor cook, a Blackstone griddle is easy to pick up and use right away.

Many people wonder how a flat top grill compares to a traditional charcoal or gas grill. The big difference is the cooking surface. A regular grill has metal bars that let fat drip through. A Blackstone griddle keeps everything on the flat surface, which means more flavor stays in your food. It also means you can cook delicate items like fish or vegetables that might fall through a standard grill grate.

Popular Blackstone Griddle Models

Blackstone offers several griddle models to fit different needs and budgets. Here is a quick look at what is popular right now.

Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle

This is the entry-level model and a great place to start. It is compact, lightweight, and perfect for small patios, dorm rooms, or camping trips. The 17-inch cooking area gives you plenty of room for a family breakfast or a couple of burgers. It runs on a standard 1-pound propane tank and heats up to about 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Blackstone 22-Inch Griddle

The 22-inch model is a sweet spot for most families. It gives you more cooking space without taking over your entire backyard. Many people use this size for weekend cookouts and tailgate parties. It comes with folding side tables and a sturdy frame that makes it easy to move around.

Blackstone 28-Inch and 36-Inch Griddles

If you love to cook for a crowd, these larger models are worth looking at. The 36-inch griddle can handle multiple dishes at once. You could fry bacon on one side, cook eggs on another, and warm up tortillas on a third zone. These models are perfect for outdoor catering or big family gatherings. They do require more storage space and a larger propane tank.

How to Season Your Blackstone Griddle

Seasoning is the most important step you will take with your new Blackstone griddle. Seasoning creates a natural nonstick layer that protects the steel and makes cooking easier every time. Here is how to do it right.

Step-by-Step Seasoning Process

1. Heat the griddle: Turn all burners to high and let the surface get hot for about 10 minutes. You want the steel to be smoking hot.
2. Apply oil: Use a paper towel or cloth to spread a thin layer of cooking oil across the entire surface. Flaxseed oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil all work well.
3. Let it smoke: Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down slowly. The oil will polymerize and form a hard, protective layer.
4. Repeat: Do this process 3 to 5 times for the best results. Each layer builds on the last one.

For a deeper dive into seasoning techniques, check out our guide on how to season your Blackstone griddle press for pro tips that make the process even easier.

Best Oils for Seasoning

• Flaxseed oil: Creates the hardest seasoning layer.
• Vegetable oil: Affordable and easy to find.
• Canola oil: Works well and has a high smoke point.
• Lard or bacon fat: Adds natural flavor to your seasoning layer.

Everyday Cooking Tips for Blackstone Griddles

Once your griddle is seasoned, the fun begins. Here are some practical tips to get the best results every time you cook.

Temperature Control

Blackstone griddles have independent burners, which means you can create different heat zones. This is a game-changer. You can sear a steak on the left side while keeping bacon warm on the right. Learning how to manage your heat zones takes a little practice, but it opens up a world of cooking possibilities.

Common Foods to Cook

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, bacon, and hash browns all cook beautifully on a Blackstone.
• Lunch and Dinner: Burgers, hot dogs, chicken breasts, stir-fry veggies, and quesadillas are crowd favorites.
• Desserts: You can make grilled peaches, cinnamon rolls, or even a flat top pizza with the right setup.

Cleaning After Cooking

Cleaning your griddle right after cooking is the best habit to build. While the surface is still warm, use a scraper to remove food bits. Then wipe it down with a paper towel. For deeper cleaning, check out our guide on how to clean a rusted Blackstone griddle if you have noticed any rust building up.

Never use soap on a seasoned griddle. Soap strips away the seasoning layer. Just use hot water and a stiff brush or scraper. If you need to remove stuck-on food, add a little water to the warm surface and scrub gently.

Preventing Rust and Keeping Your Griddle in Shape

Blackstone griddles are made from steel, which means they can rust if not cared for properly. Rust happens when moisture sits on the surface for too long. The good news is that preventing rust is simple with a few good habits.

Storage Tips

• Always dry your griddle thoroughly after cleaning.
• Store it in a dry place, ideally covered with a fitted griddle cover.
• If you store it outside, make sure the cover is waterproof and fits snugly.
• Apply a thin layer of oil to the surface before putting it away for the season.

Dealing With Rust

If you find rust on your griddle, do not panic. Small spots of rust can be fixed easily. For a full walkthrough on restoring a rusted Blackstone, read our article on how to fix rusted Blackstone griddles. The process involves scraping off the rust, re-seasoning the surface, and getting your griddle back to like-new condition.

The key is to catch rust early. A little surface rust is easy to fix. Deep rust that pits the steel is harder to deal with and can affect cooking performance. Regular maintenance is always better than heavy restoration.

Accessories That Make Griddle Cooking Better

While the griddle itself does most of the work, a few accessories can take your outdoor cooking to the next level.

• Griddle cover: Protects your unit from rain, sun, and debris when not in use.
• Propane hose and regulator: Makes it easy to connect to larger tanks for longer cooking sessions.
• Cast iron accessories: A cast iron skillet that fits on the griddle gives you even more cooking options.
• Scraper and spatula set: A good scraper keeps the surface clean without damaging the seasoning.
• Temperature probe: Helps you monitor the griddle surface temperature for perfect cooking results.

These accessories are not required, but they make a noticeable difference. A good cover alone can add years to the life of your griddle. And a quality scraper makes cleanup fast and easy after every meal.

Blackstone Griddle vs. Traditional Grill

Many people ask whether a Blackstone griddle is better than a traditional grill. The truth is, it depends on what you like to cook and how you like to cook it.

A traditional grill is great for smoking meats and getting those classic grill marks on a steak. A Blackstone griddle excels at cooking foods that need a flat surface. Think of it like the difference between a frying pan and a grill pan. Both have their place in the kitchen.

Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.

Feature	Blackstone Griddle	Traditional Grill
Cooking Surface	Flat, smooth steel	Metal grates
Best For	Eggs, pancakes, veggies, small items	Steaks, ribs, burgers with grill marks
Heat Zones	Multiple independent burners	Usually one heat source
Portability	Very portable, many models are lightweight	Can be heavy and bulky
Cleanup	Easy, scrape and wipe	Requires brushing grates
Flavor Profile	Clean, even sear	Smoky, charred flavor

Honestly, the best setup is having both if you can. But if you are just starting out with outdoor cooking, a Blackstone griddle is one of the most versatile and user-friendly options you can buy.

Final Thoughts on Blackstone Grills and Griddles

Blackstone grills and griddles have changed the way many people think about outdoor cooking. They are simple to use, easy to maintain, and incredibly versatile. Whether you are cooking breakfast for the family or feeding a crowd at a tailgate party, a Blackstone griddle delivers consistent results every time.

The key to getting the most out of your griddle is proper seasoning, regular cleaning, and smart storage. Take care of the surface, and it will take care of your meals for years to come. Start with a smaller model if you are new to flat top cooking, and you can always upgrade as your skills and appetite grow.

So grab a propane tank, fire up your griddle, and try cooking something new this weekend. You might just find that your flat top grill becomes your favorite way to cook outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Blackstone griddle should I buy?

The right size depends on how many people you usually cook for. A 17-inch griddle works great for one or two people. A 22-inch model is ideal for families of four. If you regularly cook for groups or love to meal prep outdoors, consider a 28-inch or 36-inch griddle.

Can I use a Blackstone griddle indoors?

Blackstone griddles are designed for outdoor use because they burn propane and produce carbon monoxide. Using one indoors is dangerous. Stick to outdoor cooking in a well-ventilated area like a patio, deck, or backyard.

How often should I re-season my Blackstone griddle?

You should re-season your griddle every few months or whenever you notice the surface starting to look dull or food sticking. Many users season their griddle after each deep clean. Regular seasoning keeps the nonstick surface in great shape.

Is a Blackstone griddle worth the money?

Most users find Blackstone griddles to be a great value. The flat top design gives you more cooking versatility than a standard grill, and the entry-level models are very affordable. With proper care, a Blackstone griddle lasts for many years.

What is the best oil to use on a Blackstone griddle while cooking?

Use any oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Avoid olive oil for high-heat cooking since it has a lower smoke point. A thin layer is all you need to prevent sticking and keep the seasoning intact.

How do I store my Blackstone griddle during the off-season?

Clean the griddle thoroughly, apply a light coat of oil to the surface, and cover it with a fitted griddle cover. Store it in a dry place like a garage or shed. If you must store it outside, make sure the cover is waterproof and secure against wind.