Blackstone Griddle Cooking Station – Answers to Questions

Do you want to cook outdoors while still having some conveniences of an indoor kitchen? The Blackstone Griddle Cooking Station offers plenty of cooktop space, a variety of different cooking options and easy clean-up.

Plus, this particular outdoor kitchen comes with a built-in cutting board, paper towel holder and area to hang a trash bag. Not to mention, the Blackstone 36 Griddle has 2 large side tables and caster wheels – so you can grill and prepare meals wherever you want.

Griddle Cooking & Recipe Ideas?

In fact, you can whip up meals on the griddle all day long if you want. You can get lot of use out of this single outdoor appliance.

For example, you can fry eggs, bacon, hash browns and pancakes for breakfast. Make egg sandwiches, breakfast burritos or omelets.

For lunch, make grilled cheese sandwiches, pizza or enchiladas. (Griddles are also great for preparing game day appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, chicken wings, quesadillas or bacon-wrapped shrimp.)

Then, get creative at dinner with fajitas, lettuce wraps, corn fritters or grilled pesto vegetables. Of course, burgers and sausages taste great from the griddle because they retail their juices better than on a BBQ.

Note: This flat top grill also has an easy push-button ignition system, which lights the burners instantly. It only takes a few minutes for the griddle to heat up, so you don’t have to wait a long time before you start cooking.

You can see how a griddle takes a lot of the work out of outdoor cooking. =)

Other Blackstone Griddle Options?

Alternatively, you can get the 28″ 2-burner size of the Blackstone Griddle. It has virtually the same features, just in a more compact size.

Due to its smaller size, it fits better in smaller backyards. Plus, it costs less. (And it can still cook a good amount of food at one time.)
 

Blackstone also makes a portable version of their griddle called the Tailgater Cooking Station.

It has legs that fold flat for easy transport and actually comes with both a griddle and grill plates.

Best Blackstone Griddle Kits?

You can buy a variety of grilling kits. However, my favorite Blackstone griddle kit includes all the necessary tools for a package deal.

Note: Most people need to get spatulas, a scraper and a set of tongs as basic cooking and cleaning essentials.

In addition, I like having my stainless steel lid for poaching, steaming and keeping food warm. (It also speeds up cook time and reduces splatter.)

Initially I thought I wouldn’t use the squeeze bottles. However, I realized that I use them each time I cook (one for oil, one for water).

The egg rings come in handy as well. (Plus, they are surprisingly expensive if you try and purchase them separately.)

Blackstone Griddles have a matte back powder-coated steel finish. I think it looks very modern and industrial. However, if you prefer a stainless steel finish or need it match other outdoor appliances, check out the Royal Gourmet griddle.

It looks virtually identical except for the front face. That said, keep in mind that only the Blackstone can convert to natural gas.

Note: By the way, this model does not come with a lid or hood. You can purchase a matching hard cover separately to protect the griddle from moisture when not in use.

Alternatively, you can buy a diamond plate griddle cover made to fit. This style costs more, but it can upgrade the look of your outdoor kitchen. (Not to mention, make it look for rugged and heavy-duty.)

How to Clean & Season Blackstone Flat Top Grills?

The following video demonstrates step-by-step how to clean your griddle after cooking. You’ll want a scraper, paper towels and a cotton dishtowel.

The cleaning process is extremely simple, and by using a scraper and some water, the job gets even easier. (Compared to scrubbing a bunch of pots and pans, this task is a piece of cake!)

Also see: griddle scrapers for cleaning. 

Lastly, (after cleanup), you season the griddle with a light coat of oil. This step coats the cooktop to prevent rust, plus it helps build a non-stick cooking surface.

As you continue to cook on it, the more seasoned the griddle becomes (like cast iron). In other words, the more “griddling” you do, the more you enhance the non-stick feature of the cooktop.

Note: The Blackstone arrives pre-seasoned to prevent corrosion during shipping. However, you want to season the griddle surface prior to cooking and continue this procedure to prevent rust and maintain the non-stick surface.

Specs for the Blackstone Griddle Cooking Station:

• Dimensions: 62.5″ Long x 36″ Tall x 22″ Wide
• Cooktop: 720 Square Inches (36″ W x 20.5″ D)
• Cold Rolled Steel Cooktop (Comes Pre-Seasoned)
• Weight: 120 lbs
• Heat Output: 60,000 BTUs
• 4 Separate Cooking Zones
• Color: Black
• Assembly Required
• Fuel Type: Propane or Natural Gas (conversion kit required)
• Model #: 1825
• User Manual (Instruction Guide)
• Manufacturer: Blackstone
• Phone: (435) 252-3030
• For Sale: Where to Buy a Blackstone Griddle

How to Assemble the Blackstone Griddle:

Although the box feels heavy, this unit goes together pretty quick. Basically, you unfold the legs, insert the shelves and wheels (using included screws) and place the removable griddle plate on top.

You also connect the regulator (included), hang the grease cup and add the valve knobs and propane tank holder. You can easily complete the job in under an hour – maybe even 30 minutes. See complete instructions.