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.
When I first decided to upgrade my outdoor cooking setup, I had one goal in mind: to make cooking for a crowd easier and more enjoyable. After some research and reading reviews, I settled on the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle. This powerful griddle not only promises to deliver an even and consistent cooking experience, but it also comes with a sleek design that could elevate any outdoor space. I’ve had it for a few months now, and I’m excited to share my experience.
The First Impressions: Design and Assembly
As soon as I unboxed the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle, I could immediately tell that this was built for serious outdoor cooking. The griddle has a robust, commercial-grade look with its black powder-coated steel frame, and the cooking surface is a solid piece of cold-rolled steel that is designed for even heating.
Assembly was relatively straightforward, though it did take about an hour. The instructions were clear, and all the pieces were well-packaged and labeled. With some help from a friend, we got it set up in no time. The griddle sits on a sturdy base with four locking casters, making it easy to move and secure in place when needed.
Key Features of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle
One of the main reasons I was drawn to this griddle was its versatility. Here’s a rundown of the features that stood out to me:
Five Burners for Maximum Cooking Power
The Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle boasts five independent burners, giving me the flexibility to cook multiple items at once at different temperatures. Whether I’m making pancakes for breakfast or grilling burgers for dinner, the five burners ensure there’s plenty of space to cook everything simultaneously without crowding the griddle.
Large Cooking Surface
With a cooking surface of 36 inches wide, the griddle provides ample space to prepare meals for a large group. It’s not just about size; the cold-rolled steel surface offers an even distribution of heat, ensuring that everything cooks consistently, whether I’m cooking bacon in the morning or stir-frying vegetables in the evening.
Push-Button Ignition
Gone are the days of struggling with matches or lighters. The push-button ignition system makes starting the burners quick and easy. I’ve found it to be incredibly reliable, sparking up the burners with just the press of a button each time.
Rear Grease Management System
Cleaning up after grilling is always one of the least enjoyable parts, but the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle makes it easier. It comes equipped with a rear grease management system, which channels grease into a removable tray. This makes cleaning up a breeze and ensures that the cooking surface stays free of excess grease build-up.
Cooking Experience on the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle
The real test for any griddle is how it performs in action. I’ve used the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle for a wide range of meals, from family breakfasts to large outdoor cookouts, and here’s how it held up:
Breakfast: Pancakes and Bacon
I’ve made breakfast on this griddle a few times now, and it’s been a game-changer. The Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle heats up quickly and evenly, so I can get started right away. The bacon crisps up perfectly, and the pancakes cook evenly across the surface without any cold spots. With five burners, I’m able to cook everything at once—something that would’ve been much harder on a regular grill or stovetop.
Lunch: Stir-Fry and Grilled Veggies
One of my favorite features of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle is its versatility. I’ve used it to cook up stir-fries and grilled vegetables. The wide surface gives me plenty of space to move the ingredients around, ensuring they cook at the right temperature. The griddle retains heat well, and the veggies come out with a perfect char while staying tender inside.
Dinner: Burgers and Searing Meat
I’ve also used the griddle to make dinner for friends and family. Burgers, chicken breasts, and even steaks come out with a satisfying sear and juicy interior. The griddle surface doesn’t just cook food evenly—it also provides that slightly crispy edge that you can’t get on a traditional gas grill. Plus, the large surface allows me to prepare multiple meals at once, which makes hosting barbecues much easier.
Cleanup and Maintenance
As someone who enjoys cooking outdoors but dreads the cleanup process, I was pleased to find that the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle makes it as easy as possible. The rear grease management system is a game-changer. All the excess grease and food remnants slide easily into a removable tray, which I can simply dispose of or clean after each use. The flat cooking surface also wipes down easily with a scraper and a paper towel.
One thing to keep in mind is that, since the griddle uses a cold-rolled steel surface, it requires seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties. After every few uses, I make sure to apply a layer of cooking oil to the surface to prevent rusting and to help retain its non-stick qualities.
The Pros of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle
Here are some key benefits I’ve experienced with this griddle that make it stand out:
- Even Heating: The griddle surface provides consistent heat distribution, eliminating hot spots and ensuring even cooking across the entire surface.
- Large Cooking Area: The 36-inch cooking surface gives me plenty of space for large meals, making it ideal for entertaining or cooking for a crowd.
- Versatility: The five burners and large surface area allow me to cook a wide variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner and everything in between.
- Durability: The cold-rolled steel surface and sturdy construction make this griddle durable, while the powder-coated steel frame ensures that it can withstand the elements.
- Ease of Cleaning: The rear grease management system and easy-to-clean surface make cleanup quick and hassle-free.
The Cons of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle
While I’ve been very happy with this griddle, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Size and Weight: The griddle is large and heavy, so it requires a bit of space and effort to move around, especially if you plan to store it indoors when not in use.
- Seasoning Required: Like many griddles with cold-rolled steel surfaces, it needs to be seasoned to maintain its non-stick surface and to prevent rusting.
Who Should Consider the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
The Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle is ideal for anyone who enjoys cooking outdoors and wants a versatile cooking tool. It’s perfect for families, people who entertain often, or anyone who loves to cook large meals at once. It’s especially great for people who want more control over their outdoor cooking and prefer a flat cooking surface over a traditional grill.
However, if you have limited outdoor space or don’t plan on cooking for a crowd, you might find this griddle to be too large for your needs. It’s also best suited for those who are willing to spend a bit more time on cleanup and maintenance, such as seasoning the cooking surface regularly.
Versatility for Different Cooking Styles
One of the things I’ve truly come to appreciate about the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle is its adaptability. From breakfast to dinner, this griddle is capable of handling a wide range of cooking styles. I’ve tried everything from making crispy bacon and eggs in the morning to grilling vegetables and seafood for dinner. The versatility is endless, and the consistent heat ensures that each meal is cooked to perfection.
Outdoor Cooking Made Simple
Another feature I’ve come to love is the convenience of cooking outdoors. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a chilly evening when I don’t want to turn on the stove, the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle makes outdoor cooking simple and enjoyable. The large cooking surface and five burners mean I can cook everything at once, and the even heat distribution makes it easy to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Considerations for Cooking at Scale
If you plan on cooking for a larger group, this griddle is especially handy. The five burners allow me to adjust the heat levels for different types of food, making it easier to cook a variety of dishes at once. From searing meat to making pancakes, the griddle accommodates all kinds of cooking needs. It’s a great solution for anyone who enjoys entertaining guests or hosting large family meals.
Product Review Conclusion: Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black Review
After using the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle for several months, I can confidently say that it’s been a great addition to my outdoor cooking setup. Whether I’m making breakfast, grilling dinner, or cooking for a crowd, the griddle provides an even cooking surface that ensures everything turns out perfectly. Its versatility, durability, and ease of cleaning make it a top choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking.
While it’s on the larger side and requires regular seasoning, the benefits of this griddle far outweigh any minor inconveniences. For anyone who loves to cook outdoors, I’d highly recommend the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle as an investment in both quality and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
Here are some of the most common questions about the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle, along with helpful answers based on my experience:
Q: What is the cooking surface size of the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle has a 36-inch wide cooking surface, providing 720 square inches of space, which is perfect for preparing large meals or cooking for a crowd.
Q: How many burners does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle have?
A: It features five independent burners, each with its own control knob, allowing you to adjust the temperature for different areas of the griddle.
Q: Does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle come with a built-in thermometer?
A: Yes, the griddle includes a built-in thermometer to help you monitor the temperature on the cooking surface for better cooking control.
Q: How do I clean the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle is equipped with a rear grease management system that directs grease into a removable tray. After cooking, you can scrape off any residue and wipe down the surface with a paper towel. Regular seasoning of the cooking surface is recommended to maintain its non-stick qualities.
Q: What kind of fuel does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle use?
A: The griddle uses liquid propane (LP) gas, which powers the five burners. You will need to connect it to a propane tank for use.
Q: Is the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle portable?
A: The griddle is fairly large and heavy, but it does come with four locking casters, making it easy to move around. However, it’s best suited for a more permanent outdoor cooking space.
Q: Can I use the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle for cooking different types of food at once?
A: Yes, the griddle's five burners allow you to control different temperature zones, making it easy to cook various types of food simultaneously—ideal for cooking breakfast, grilling meats, or stir-frying vegetables all at the same time.
Q: Does the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle require assembly?
A: Yes, assembly is required when you first receive the griddle, but it’s straightforward and typically takes around an hour. The instructions are clear, and most of the parts come pre-assembled.
Q: How long does it take to heat up the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: The griddle heats up quickly—usually within 10-15 minutes—thanks to its powerful burners and large cooking surface. Once preheated, it retains heat well for consistent cooking.
Q: Can I use the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle in cold weather?
A: Yes, the griddle can be used in colder temperatures, but keep in mind that it may take longer to heat up if the weather is extremely cold. As with any outdoor grill, it's important to monitor the gas flow and ensure the propane tank is kept at a reasonable temperature for optimal performance.
Q: How do I maintain the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle?
A: Regular maintenance includes seasoning the griddle surface to prevent rust, cleaning the grease tray after each use, and wiping down the cooking surface with oil. It’s also a good idea to cover the griddle when not in use to protect it from the elements.
Q: Is the Blackstone Patio Series 5 Burner Griddle ideal for families or large gatherings?
A: Absolutely! The large cooking surface and multiple burners make it perfect for preparing meals for families or entertaining large groups, whether you're cooking breakfast, grilling burgers, or making stir-fry.