Quick Summary:
Price: $1,299.99
Pros
- Large Cooking Surface: With 720 square inches of cooking space, you can prepare large meals for big groups.
- Versatile Cooking: The griddle can handle a wide variety of foods, from breakfast to dinner.
- Independent Burners: Five independently controlled burners allow for precise heat management across different cooking zones.
- Durable Construction: The cold-rolled steel griddle surface is robust and easy to maintain.
- Efficient Grease Management: The rear grease trap makes cleaning up after cooking quick and hassle-free.
Cons
- Heavyweight: At 120 lbs, the griddle can be challenging to move around, even with caster wheels.
- Requires Regular Maintenance: The cold-rolled steel surface needs to be properly seasoned and maintained to prevent rust.
As someone who thrives on hosting weekend gatherings and preparing meals outdoors, I always search for the perfect equipment to meet my cooking needs. The Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black quickly piqued my interest, given its reputation for being versatile, reliable, and spacious. After weeks of putting it to the test, I’ve gathered my thoughts on what makes this griddle a standout option—and where it shines best.
Setting Up the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
When the griddle first arrived, the assembly process was refreshingly simple. I’m not exactly a DIY expert, but the step-by-step guide made it clear and approachable. Within about an hour, the griddle was set up and ready to go.
The first thing I noticed was the substantial cooking surface. With 720 square inches to work with, it’s a dream for anyone who likes to cook large batches or a variety of dishes at once. The five burners were evenly spaced, promising uniform heat distribution—a feature that would prove invaluable during my cooking sessions.
Cooking with the Blackstone Griddle: My First Impressions
I fired it up for the first time to make breakfast for my family. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, and hash browns all had plenty of space on the griddle. What surprised me most was the consistent heat across the entire surface. Unlike other grills I’ve used in the past, there were no hot or cold spots to frustrate my cooking process.
The electronic ignition made starting the burners quick and seamless. Within minutes, I was cooking without any hassle—a definite plus when you’re preparing food for a hungry crowd.
Exploring the Griddle's Versatility
One of my favorite things about the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black is its incredible versatility. While it excelled at breakfast foods, I also used it to prepare stir-fried vegetables, smash burgers, and even fajitas. The griddle surface provides the flexibility to cook anything from delicate seafood to hearty steaks, making it an all-season cooking companion.
I also tried a few more ambitious dishes, like hibachi-style fried rice. The large cooking surface allowed me to move ingredients around freely, and the five burners made it easy to manage different heat zones. Whether searing, sautéing, or simmering, the griddle handled it all effortlessly.
Perfect for Entertaining
If you enjoy hosting, the Blackstone griddle is a game-changer. I recently invited friends over for a backyard barbecue, and the griddle became the centerpiece of the evening. With enough room to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, I kept the food flowing without anyone waiting too long.
The side shelves were invaluable, providing ample prep space and keeping utensils within arm's reach. And when the night was over, the cleanup process was much easier than I anticipated.
How Easy Is Cleanup?
Speaking of cleanup, the Blackstone griddle has one of the best grease management systems I’ve encountered. Grease collects in a front-facing tray that’s easy to remove and empty. After the cooking session, I simply scraped down the surface with a griddle scraper, wiped it clean with paper towels, and applied a light coat of oil for protection.
For anyone who’s worried about maintenance, I found the process to be straightforward and quick. As long as you clean it after each use, the griddle surface stays in great condition.
Portability and Space-Saving Features
While the Blackstone 5 Burner Griddle is undoubtedly a large piece of equipment, I appreciated how easy it was to move around my patio. The four caster wheels made relocation a breeze, and the locking mechanism kept it secure while I cooked.
When not in use, the side shelves fold down, making storage more convenient. If you’re tight on space, this thoughtful design feature really helps.
Cooking for Large Groups
As someone who frequently cooks for larger gatherings, I loved how efficient this griddle was in feeding a crowd. During one of my family reunions, I managed to cook breakfast for over ten people without breaking a sweat. The expansive cooking surface and the ability to prepare multiple items simultaneously saved time and effort.
Even when I was just cooking for my immediate family, I found the size helpful. It allowed me to keep different dietary preferences and restrictions in mind by creating separate zones for vegetarian and non-vegetarian items.
Benefits of Propane Cooking
The liquid propane system is another feature that won me over. It heats up faster than charcoal and gives you better control over the temperature. While I still love the flavor of food cooked over a traditional grill, the Blackstone griddle’s propane system is unbeatable for speed and convenience.
Additionally, the griddle retains heat well, so even after turning off a burner or two, I could keep food warm without worrying about overcooking.
Who Is the Blackstone Griddle Best For?
After weeks of using the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black, I can confidently say it’s best suited for those who love outdoor cooking and entertaining. Its large size, versatility, and ease of use make it perfect for:
- Families who cook together outdoors regularly
- Hosts who entertain guests frequently
- Food enthusiasts looking for a multipurpose griddle to try new recipes
- Beginners who want a simple, reliable cooking tool to start with
That said, if you’re someone who only cooks occasionally or has limited outdoor space, this griddle might feel a bit excessive. It truly shines when put to regular use.
A Few Drawbacks to Consider
While there’s a lot to love about this griddle, I did notice a few minor drawbacks. For one, its size means you’ll need sufficient outdoor space to accommodate it. Additionally, while it’s portable, it’s not the kind of grill you’ll easily load into a car for a camping trip.
Another consideration is the propane consumption. With five burners, it can use more fuel than a smaller grill, so it’s worth keeping an extra tank on hand if you’re planning a long cooking session.
Tips for Maximizing Your Griddle Experience
After spending ample time cooking with the Blackstone, here are a few tips I’d recommend for getting the most out of it:
- Season the Griddle: Before your first use, season the griddle thoroughly to ensure food doesn’t stick and to extend the life of the surface.
- Use Heat Zones: Take advantage of the five burners to create different temperature zones for various foods.
- Invest in Accessories: A griddle spatula, scraper, and oil dispenser can make your cooking sessions smoother and more enjoyable.
- Plan Cleanup in Advance: While the grease management system is excellent, cleaning right after cooking makes the process much easier.
Product Review Conclusion
In summary, the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black delivers on its promise of versatility, performance, and convenience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who loves outdoor cooking, whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast or hosting an elaborate dinner.
While it’s a bit of an investment, the griddle’s durability and features make it worth every penny for those who will use it regularly. It has certainly become a staple in my backyard setup, and I look forward to many more memorable meals cooked on this powerhouse griddle.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
Q: How large is the cooking surface on the Blackstone 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle features a spacious cooking surface of 720 square inches, making it ideal for preparing meals for large groups or cooking multiple items simultaneously.
Q: Does the griddle come pre-assembled?
A: No, the griddle requires assembly upon delivery. However, the instructions are clear, and the process takes approximately 1–2 hours.
Q: How do I season the griddle before using it for the first time?
A: To season the griddle, apply a thin layer of cooking oil across the entire cooking surface and heat it until the oil smokes. Repeat this process 2–3 times to create a non-stick, protective layer.
Q: Can I cook multiple types of food at different temperatures at the same time?
A: Yes, the five independently controlled burners allow you to create multiple heat zones, making it possible to cook different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously.
Q: Is the Blackstone griddle easy to clean?
A: Yes, the griddle is designed for easy cleanup. The grease management system directs grease into a removable tray, and the flat surface can be wiped down with a scraper and paper towels after use.
Q: Does the griddle come with a cover or accessories?
A: Accessories such as a cover, spatulas, and other tools are sold separately. However, Blackstone offers a variety of compatible accessories designed to enhance your griddle experience.
Q: Is the Blackstone griddle portable?
A: While the griddle is relatively large, it comes with four caster wheels for easy mobility. Two of the wheels are lockable, ensuring stability when in use.
Q: What type of propane tank is needed for this griddle?
A: The griddle is compatible with a standard 20-pound propane tank, commonly used with outdoor grills.
Q: Can this griddle be used in cold weather?
A: Yes, the griddle performs well in cold weather. However, propane efficiency may decrease slightly in extremely low temperatures, so ensure your tank is full for longer cook sessions.
Q: Is there a warranty on the Blackstone 5 Burner Griddle?
A: Yes, the griddle comes with a one-year limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Be sure to register your product to activate the warranty.
Q: Does the griddle emit a lot of smoke during cooking?
A: The amount of smoke depends on what you’re cooking and the oil used. While some smoke is normal, proper ventilation and outdoor use minimize any inconvenience.
Q: Can I use the griddle to bake or roast food?
A: While primarily designed for griddling, the Blackstone griddle can be used creatively for some baking or roasting tasks by using pans or griddle-safe accessories.
Q: How long does it take to preheat the griddle?
A: The griddle preheats quickly, usually within 5–10 minutes, depending on the desired cooking temperature.
Q: What materials is the griddle made of, and is it rust-resistant?
A: The cooking surface is made of cold-rolled steel, which is durable and easy to maintain. Proper cleaning and oiling after each use will help prevent rust.