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 an avid outdoor cooking enthusiast, I was eager to test the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black. This griddle promises to elevate outdoor cooking with its expansive cooking surface and versatile features. In this review, I'll share my firsthand experience with this griddle, covering its design, performance, ease of use, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle has a sleek and functional design. Its 756 square inches of cooking space are more than sufficient for large gatherings, allowing me to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously. The five stainless steel burners enable the creation of distinct heat zones, which is invaluable when cooking a variety of items at once. The large cooking surface allows me to spread out my food, meaning I don’t have to worry about overcrowding, especially when hosting guests.
The griddle’s construction is solid, featuring a black powder-coated steel frame that not only enhances its durability but also gives it a professional look in my outdoor kitchen. The control knobs are intuitive and easy to use, allowing for precise temperature adjustments. I’ve found the control system to be extremely user-friendly, and it gives me a lot of flexibility when cooking different types of food.
Performance and Cooking Experience
When it comes to performance, the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle really stands out. The 65,000 BTUs of heat it delivers are more than enough to handle anything I throw at it, from breakfast to dinner. One of the first things I cooked on this griddle was breakfast for my family—eggs, bacon, pancakes, and sausages all at once. The results were impressive. The heat distribution was even, with no hot spots, and everything cooked thoroughly and quickly. I didn’t have to worry about constantly moving food around to avoid uneven cooking.
The five burners are incredibly helpful in creating heat zones. I’ve used this feature to cook bacon and eggs at higher heat while keeping pancakes warm on lower heat, all on the same surface. It’s really convenient when cooking for a group, and it’s something that’s unique to griddles like this one, rather than traditional grills.
Versatility and Cooking Options
The versatility of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle has been one of the most exciting aspects for me. Unlike traditional grills that are limited to grilling meat and veggies, this griddle allows me to prepare a wide range of foods. From stir-fries and stir-fried rice to quesadillas and smash burgers, this griddle is capable of handling all sorts of cooking styles. I’ve even cooked up a batch of scrambled eggs in the morning and followed it up with dinner later in the evening, without feeling like I was limited to one type of cooking.
The even heat distribution is a huge advantage. I can cook delicate items, like fish, and get the perfect sear on a steak, all without worrying about the temperature fluctuating or creating uneven cooking. I’ve tried making pancakes and they came out beautifully browned, which isn’t always easy on a traditional grill, where the uneven heat can cause them to burn in some spots.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Using the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle is an incredibly straightforward process. Setting it up is easy. The griddle comes with a push-button ignition system that sparks up the burners quickly, and the propane connection is simple to hook up. I’ve never had any trouble starting it up, even after leaving it unused for a while.
Cleaning up after cooking is another area where this griddle shines. After cooking multiple dishes, the grease management system helps keep the surface relatively clean. The built-in grease tray catches most of the drippings, and the griddle itself is simple to wipe down after use. I’ve found that with a little water and a paper towel, I can quickly clean up the cooking surface. The surface material is durable and resistant to staining, which makes maintenance a lot less of a hassle.
One thing I’ve really appreciated is the griddle’s large, flat surface. Unlike grills with grates that can be tricky to clean, the Blackstone griddle surface is uniform, meaning that food debris doesn’t get stuck between the grates. Simply wiping it down after cooking is all it takes.
Durability and Longevity
As someone who enjoys outdoor cooking year-round, durability is essential when choosing equipment, and the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle hasn’t disappointed in this area. The sturdy steel frame and solid construction give me confidence that this griddle will hold up over time. After several months of regular use, the griddle still looks as good as new, with no signs of rust or deterioration.
The cooking surface is made from cold-rolled steel, which retains heat well and distributes it evenly. I’ve found that, even during colder weather, the griddle warms up quickly and maintains a consistent cooking temperature. I’ve used it in both chilly mornings and warmer afternoons, and it’s performed consistently. For an outdoor appliance, the Blackstone griddle is built to last and endure frequent use.
Storage and Portability
One of the concerns I had before purchasing the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle was how bulky it might be. At first glance, the griddle does look like it could take up a lot of space, but the good news is that it’s relatively easy to move around. It comes with four heavy-duty caster wheels, which lock into place when you’re cooking to ensure stability. I’ve found that the wheels make it much easier to reposition the griddle around my patio, whether I need to tuck it away for storage or move it closer to the action for a cookout.
The spacious design is an advantage, but it also means I need to make sure there’s enough room on my patio to store it when it’s not in use. Fortunately, the griddle’s sturdy frame means it holds up well outdoors without showing signs of wear, even after exposure to the elements.
Cost vs. Value
When considering the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle, the initial cost might seem like a larger investment compared to a traditional grill. However, after using it extensively, I can confidently say that it’s worth the price. This griddle offers more versatility than a standard grill, and the added benefit of having five burners means I can cook multiple things at once with great precision. For someone who frequently entertains or enjoys cooking large meals, the investment in this griddle is justified.
The amount of cooking space provided is ideal for large gatherings, and the fact that I can cook multiple dishes at varying temperatures simultaneously is invaluable. I’ve used it for everything from quick breakfasts to full-scale dinner parties, and it’s never let me down. It’s an essential tool for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black is a fantastic addition to any outdoor kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just someone who enjoys casual grilling, this griddle offers a lot of flexibility, power, and ease of use. The durable build quality, large cooking surface, and consistent performance have made it a go-to cooking tool for me.
If you’re someone who enjoys hosting, or simply wants to make cooking outside easier and more enjoyable, this griddle is worth considering. It’s not just a griddle, but a versatile cooking station that can handle everything from pancakes to stir-fries with ease. While it may not be for everyone—especially if you’re looking for something compact or more budget-friendly—if you’re ready to invest in a high-quality, versatile outdoor griddle, the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
Q: What is the cooking surface size of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle features a large 756 square inch cooking surface, which is spacious enough to cook for a large group of people or family with ease.
Q: How many burners does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle have?
A: As the name suggests, the griddle comes with five stainless steel burners that provide even heat distribution and allow for multiple heat zones for cooking a variety of foods simultaneously.
Q: How many BTUs does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle deliver?
A: The griddle delivers a powerful 65,000 BTUs, which is more than enough to cook food quickly and evenly on the expansive cooking surface.
Q: Is the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle easy to assemble?
A: Yes, the griddle comes with clear instructions and all the necessary tools for assembly. While it might take a bit of time to put together, it’s a straightforward process, and I managed to assemble mine without any issues.
Q: Does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle come with a grease management system?
A: Yes, it features an integrated grease management system that funnels grease and drippings into a removable rear cup, making cleanup much easier.
Q: Can I use this griddle for cooking other foods besides burgers and steaks?
A: Absolutely! The Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle is highly versatile and can be used to cook a wide variety of foods, including pancakes, eggs, stir-fries, fajitas, seafood, and even breakfast items like bacon and hash browns.
Q: Is the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle compatible with natural gas, or just propane?
A: This particular model is designed to use liquid propane. If you want to use natural gas, you may need to purchase an additional conversion kit, which can be found from Blackstone or a third-party supplier.
Q: How difficult is it to clean the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: Cleaning is relatively easy thanks to the smooth cooking surface and the grease management system. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and a cleaning brush is all that’s needed after cooking, and the grease cup is removable for easy disposal.
Q: Does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle come with a cover or any accessories?
A: The griddle does not come with a cover, but you can purchase a cover separately from Blackstone to protect your griddle from the elements when not in use. Some accessories like griddle tools and cleaning kits are also available for purchase.
Q: Can the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle be used in cold weather?
A: Yes, the Blackstone griddle performs well even in colder weather. It heats up quickly and retains heat efficiently, so you can use it year-round. Just be sure to follow proper maintenance and care to keep it in good condition.
Q: How portable is the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle is equipped with four heavy-duty caster wheels, making it relatively easy to move around the patio or store it when not in use. The wheels lock into place for stability during cooking.
Q: What are the dimensions of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle measures approximately 62 inches wide, 23 inches deep, and 36 inches tall. It provides plenty of space for cooking large meals but does require a suitable amount of room for storage.
Q: Can I cook multiple dishes at different temperatures at the same time?
A: Yes, the five burners allow you to create multiple heat zones on the griddle. This makes it easy to cook different foods at different temperatures, such as searing meat on high heat while keeping vegetables warm on a lower setting.