This comprehensive review delves into the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle Station, a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. We put this large griddle through rigorous testing, examining its build quality, temperature performance, and versatile features. From its robust construction using heavy-gauge steel to its powerful four-burner system delivering 60,000 BTUs, we explored every aspect to determine its suitability for serious grilling and cooking. Our testing included detailed temperature measurements under various conditions, assessing both evenness and maximum heat output. We also explored its zone cooking capabilities and real-world performance with a variety of dishes.This review covers not only the griddle's performance but also its practical features, including the grease management system, electronic ignition, side shelves, and protective cover. We analyze the convenience and usability of these additions, offering a complete picture of the user experience. Ultimately, we aim to provide a balanced assessment of the Blackstone 36-inch griddle, highlighting its strengths and addressing any minor shortcomings, to help you decide if it's the right outdoor cooking appliance for your needs.
Pros And Cons
- Heavy-duty 7-gauge griddle plate (cold rolled steel)
- Four tube-style burners (0.7 mm thick 400 series stainless steel), 15,000 BTUs each (60,000 total)
- Reaches high temperatures (466°F average in high-temperature test)
- Good low-temperature evenness (336°F average in low-temperature test, with only 76°F difference between hottest and coldest spots)
- Ability to achieve lower temperatures by turning off burners
- Good zone differentiation, allowing for simultaneous cooking at different temperatures
- Excellent heat retention, allowing for quick recovery after adding cold food
- Patented rear grease management system for easy cleanup
- Electronic ignition
- Fold-down side shelves with tool studs and magnetic knife strip
- Swing-arm paper towel holder
- Full-width sturdy storage shelf with propane tank hanging bracket
- Removable steel hard top cover that doubles as a windbreak
- In the high-temperature test, the back right corner was 95°F cooler than the average temperature.
- In the low-temperature test, the front right corner was 76°F cooler than the average temperature.
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Build Quality and Materials
The Blackstone 1866 griddle boasts impressive build quality, starting with its robust materials. The firebox is constructed from durable 19-gauge cold-rolled steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to warping. The front control panel is made of slightly thicker 16-gauge steel for added strength. Most importantly, the griddle cooking surface itself is a hefty 7-gauge cold-rolled steel, promising even heat distribution and exceptional durability.
The burners are equally impressive, constructed from 0.7-millimeter thick 400 series stainless steel, known for its heat resistance and corrosion resistance. Even the included hard cover is built with 18-gauge cold-rolled steel, providing superior protection against the elements.
Temperature Performance and Evenness
Temperature testing revealed excellent performance. A 15-minute preheat with all burners on high resulted in an average temperature of 445°F, ready for searing in 15-20 minutes. The low temperature evenness test, with all burners on low for 30 minutes, yielded a consistent 336°F average. Even the furthest point from the average was only 76 degrees cooler, demonstrating excellent heat distribution.
The high-temperature test, also 30 minutes with all burners on high, showed an average of 466°F, with the largest temperature difference being 95 degrees. This indicates that while some temperature variation exists, it's within acceptable limits for even cooking. The ability to individually control burners allows for precise temperature adjustments and zoning for versatile cooking.
Zone Cooking and Real-World Testing
The Blackstone griddle's ability to create distinct temperature zones was impressive. A test with varying burner settings (high, low, high, off) showed significant temperature differences between zones, allowing for simultaneous cooking of items requiring different temperatures. The differences were quite significant, ranging from 18% to 30% between zones. This makes the griddle incredibly versatile.
Real-world testing reinforced this versatility. Cooking 24 burgers simultaneously demonstrated excellent heat retention, preventing the temperature from dropping drastically and resulting in perfectly seared patties. A subsequent breakfast and savory spread showcased the griddle's ability to handle a variety of food items at different temperatures with great success.
Features and Accessories
The Blackstone 1866 comes packed with convenient features. Its four burners offer a combined 60,000 BTUs, providing ample power for various cooking tasks. A patented grease management system simplifies cleanup, while electronic ignition makes lighting the burners a breeze. Fold-down side shelves, tool hooks, and a magnetic knife strip enhance practicality during cooking.
Additional features include a swing-arm paper towel holder, a full-width storage shelf, and a propane tank hanging bracket. The removable hard top cover protects the griddle when not in use and doubles as a windbreak. These thoughtful additions significantly enhance the user experience.
Conclusion: Is it Worth It?
The Blackstone 36-inch griddle is a high-performing cooking appliance that shines in its build quality, temperature control, and versatile zone cooking capabilities. The robust construction, large cooking surface, and abundance of features make it suitable for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
While some minor temperature inconsistencies exist, they are minimal and do not significantly impact cooking results. The combination of features, performance, and value makes the Blackstone 36-inch griddle a strong contender in the outdoor cooking market. Overall, it's a worthwhile investment for those looking for a powerful and versatile griddle.