Ultimate Blackstone Griddle Guide for Outdoor Cooking

By Chris Johns •  Updated: December 13, 2025 •  23 min read

Blackstone griddle with breakfast cooking outdoors on a patio

BBQ Report is reader-supported. We may receive a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through our links. Learn more.

Blackstone griddles have revolutionized outdoor cooking, transforming backyards and campsites into versatile cooking stations capable of producing restaurant-quality meals. Whether you’re flipping pancakes for a weekend breakfast, searing smash burgers for a summer cookout, or stir-frying vegetables for a healthy dinner, a flat top grill offers unmatched versatility that traditional charcoal grills and gas grills simply cannot match.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Blackstone griddles, from choosing the right model for your cooking style to selecting essential accessories that will enhance your griddle cooking experience. We’ve researched the most popular models, tested various accessories, and compiled expert tips to help both new buyers and experienced griddle enthusiasts get the most out of their outdoor griddle setup.

Whether you’re looking for a full-size 36-inch griddle to feed a crowd, a compact tabletop model for tailgating and camping, or the essential tools and covers to protect your investment, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through the key features to consider, recommend the best products available, and share proven techniques for seasoning, cooking, and maintaining your Blackstone griddle for years of delicious meals.

Quick Roundup List

How to Choose a Blackstone Griddle

Selecting the right Blackstone griddle depends on several factors including your cooking needs, available space, and how you plan to use it. Understanding the key differences between models will help you make an informed decision.

Size Considerations

Blackstone offers griddles in four main sizes, each suited for different cooking scenarios:

17-inch Griddles: The most compact option, perfect for solo cooking or couples. These tabletop units are highly portable and ideal for camping, RV trips, or small balconies.

The cooking surface accommodates about 8-10 burgers at once.

22-inch Griddles: A popular mid-size option that balances portability with cooking capacity. With 361 square inches of cooking space, you can cook up to 14 burgers simultaneously.

These griddles work well for small families or tailgating.

28-inch Griddles: An excellent choice for families of four to six. The increased cooking surface allows you to prepare complete meals with multiple items cooking at once, making it easier to serve everyone hot food at the same time.

36-inch Griddles: The flagship size for serious outdoor cooks. With 768 square inches of cooking surface, you can feed large groups and prepare elaborate meals.

These full-size griddles typically feature four burners with independent heat zones for maximum cooking flexibility.

BTU Output and Heat Zones

BTU (British Thermal Units) measures the heat output of your griddle’s burners. Higher BTU ratings mean more heat potential, which is important for achieving proper searing temperatures and quick heat recovery when adding cold food.

Most Blackstone griddles feature H-style burners that distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface. The 22-inch models typically offer 24,000 BTUs across two burners, while 36-inch models deliver up to 60,000 BTUs through four independent burners.

Independent heat zones are crucial for versatile cooking. With separate burner controls, you can maintain a high-heat searing zone on one side while keeping a gentler warming area on the other. This allows you to cook proteins at high temperatures while simultaneously preparing more delicate items like eggs or vegetables.

Portability vs. Cooking Capacity

Consider how and where you’ll use your griddle:

Tabletop Models: Designed for portability, these griddles sit on any flat surface and are easy to transport. They’re perfect for camping, tailgating, RV trips, or small outdoor spaces.

The trade-off is reduced cooking capacity.

Full-Size Models with Carts: These larger griddles include integrated stands, side shelves, and wheels for mobility within your backyard. While not designed for frequent transport, they offer maximum cooking space and convenience features like paper towel holders and tool hooks.

Foldable/On-The-Go Models: A newer category that combines the cooking capacity of larger grills with enhanced portability through folding legs and compact storage designs. These portable flat top grills are perfect for adventurers.

Key Features to Look For

When comparing Blackstone griddle models, pay attention to these important features:

Grease Management System: All Blackstone griddles feature rear grease management, directing oils and drippings to a collection cup at the back. This design makes cleanup easier and keeps your cooking surface cleaner during use.

Ignition System: Look for push-and-turn piezo ignition for reliable, match-free starting. This electronic ignition system creates a spark to light the burners without needing matches or lighters.

Wind Guards: Built-in or accessory wind guards protect your burner flames from gusts, ensuring consistent heat even on breezy days. Some models like the Omnivore series include integrated wind guards.

Side Shelves: Folding side shelves provide valuable prep and serving space right next to your cooking surface. Look for models with sturdy shelves that can support cutting boards, ingredient trays, and serving platters.

Hood or Cover: An integrated hood protects your griddle top during storage and transport, preventing scratches and keeping debris off the cooking surface.

Blackstone Griddle Comparison

Blackstone Griddle Model Comparison – Cooking Surface, Burners, BTU Output, Heat Zones, Portability, and Best Uses
Feature22″ Tabletop22″ On-The-Go36″ Omnivore
Cooking Surface361 sq in361 sq in768 sq in
Burners224
BTU Output24,00024,00060,000
Heat Zones224
PortabilityHighVery HighModerate
Best ForTailgating, CampingRV, TravelBackyard Cooking

The Best Blackstone Griddles for 2025

After extensive research and analysis of customer feedback, these are our top picks for Blackstone flat top grills this year. Each grill has been evaluated for build quality, cooking performance, and overall value.

Blackstone 36″ Omnivore Griddle – Best Overall

Blackstone 36 inch Omnivore Griddle outdoor flat top grill

The Blackstone 36″ Omnivore Griddle represents the pinnacle of flat top cooking, offering professional-grade features in a backyard-friendly package. With 768 square inches of cooking space, this griddle can handle everything from intimate family dinners to large gatherings with ease.

Highlights

Specifications

Customer Reviews

  1. “The four independent burners are a game-changer. I can sear steaks on one side while gently cooking vegetables on the other without any issues.”
  2. “Feeds my whole family plus guests easily. The Omnivore plate heats up faster and more evenly than my old griddle, and it uses less propane too.”
  3. “Setup was straightforward, and the side shelves are incredibly useful. I use one for ingredients and one for serving – it’s like having a complete outdoor kitchen.”

See at Amazon

Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood – Best Tabletop

Blackstone 22 inch Tabletop Griddle with Hood portable flat top grill

The Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood delivers impressive cooking capability in a compact, portable package. Perfect for camping trips, tailgating, or small outdoor spaces, this griddle proves that you don’t need a full-size unit to create delicious flat top meals.

Highlights

Specifications

Customer Reviews

  1. “We take this camping every weekend. Cooks breakfast for four people easily, and the hood keeps everything protected in our trailer.”
  2. “Perfect size for my apartment balcony. Two burners give me enough control to cook bacon on one side and pancakes on the other.”
  3. “The portability is unmatched. I’ve used it at tailgates, beach trips, and even brought it to a friend’s house when their grill broke down.”

See at Amazon

Blackstone 22″ On The Go Portable Griddle – Best Portable

Blackstone 22 inch On The Go Portable Griddle with foldable legs

The Blackstone 22″ On The Go Portable Griddle takes portability to the next level with its innovative foldable design. This griddle is engineered for adventurers who want to bring quality flat top cooking anywhere their travels take them.

Highlights

Specifications

Customer Reviews

  1. “This griddle fits perfectly in our RV storage compartment. The folding legs are sturdy and lock securely in both positions.”
  2. “I’ve taken this on four camping trips already. Setup takes about two minutes, and it cooks just as well as larger griddles.”
  3. “The portability factor is incredible. It’s changed how we camp – now we eat like kings instead of surviving on hot dogs and canned food.”

See at Amazon

Essential Blackstone Griddle Accessories

The right accessories can significantly enhance your flat top grill cooking experience. From essential stainless steel tools to protective covers, these products will help you get the most out of your Blackstone grill.

35PCS Griddle Accessories Kit – Best Accessory Kit

35 piece griddle accessories kit with stainless steel spatulas and tools

A comprehensive accessory kit is the fastest way to equip yourself with everything needed for successful griddle cooking. This 35-piece set includes professional-quality tools that will serve you well for years of outdoor cooking.

Highlights

Specifications

Customer Reviews

  1. “This kit has everything I needed and more. The stainless steel spatulas are restaurant-quality and the basting covers make perfect smash burgers on my flat top grill.”
  2. “Great value for the number of tools included. The storage bag keeps everything together and makes it easy to grab for cookouts.”
  3. “The stainless steel quality is impressive at this price point. These tools feel professional and have held up well after months of regular use.”

See at Amazon

Blackstone 22″ Cover & Carry Bag – Best Cover (Tabletop)

Blackstone 22 inch Cover and Carry Bag weather resistant

Protecting your griddle investment is essential for longevity. This official Blackstone cover and carry bag combo provides weather protection at home and safe transport wherever your cooking adventures take you.

Highlights

Specifications

Customer Reviews

  1. “Essential purchase for anyone who wants their griddle to last. The cover fits perfectly and the carry bag makes transport so much easier.”
  2. “Great quality material that actually repels water. Survived several rainstorms without any moisture getting through.”
  3. “The cinch straps keep it secure even in windy conditions. Highly recommend for protecting your investment.”

See at Amazon

Blackstone 36″ Griddle Top Carry Bag – Best Cover (Full-Size)

Blackstone 36 inch Griddle Top Carry Bag heavy duty protection

For full-size griddle owners who transport their cooking surface or want premium storage protection, this official Blackstone carry bag offers heavy-duty protection with convenient portability features.

Highlights

Specifications

Customer Reviews

  1. “This bag is built to last. The double-layer construction and heavy-duty zippers give me confidence my griddle top is protected.”
  2. “Makes transporting my griddle top to events so much easier. The handles are comfortable even when fully loaded.”
  3. “Essential for anyone who stores their griddle outdoors or takes it camping. Keeps everything clean and scratch-free.”

See at Amazon

Blackstone Griddle Cooking Tips

Mastering your flat top grill requires understanding a few key techniques that will elevate your griddle cooking from good to exceptional. Unlike traditional charcoal grills or gas grills, a flat top grill provides a completely flat cooking surface that opens up new culinary possibilities.

Seasoning Your Griddle Properly

Proper seasoning is the foundation of successful griddle cooking. A well-seasoned cooking surface develops a natural non-stick patina that improves with each use.

Initial Seasoning Process:

  1. Clean your new griddle with warm soapy water to remove any manufacturing residue, then dry completely
  2. Heat your griddle on high until the surface begins to darken (about 10-15 minutes)
  3. Apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil (flaxseed, avocado, or vegetable oil) across the entire cooking surface
  4. Allow the oil to smoke and polymerize completely (the surface will appear dry and slightly darker)
  5. Repeat this process 3-4 times for a solid initial seasoning
  6. Your griddle is ready to cook when it has a uniform dark appearance

Maintaining Your Seasoning:

After each cooking session, apply a thin layer of oil to the warm (not hot) griddle surface. This protects against rust and continues building the non-stick patina. Avoid using soap on a seasoned griddle unless absolutely necessary, as it can strip the seasoning.

Temperature Zones and Heat Management

One of the greatest advantages of a flat top grill is the ability to create multiple temperature zones across the cooking surface.

High Heat Zone (400-500°F): Use for searing steaks, making smash burgers, achieving crispy bacon, and creating the Maillard reaction on proteins. This zone rivals the heat of commercial grills.

Medium Heat Zone (325-375°F): Ideal for cooking chicken, pork chops, vegetables, and most everyday cooking tasks.

Low Heat Zone (250-300°F): Perfect for keeping food warm, cooking eggs, melting cheese, and gently finishing proteins that need more time.

Pro tip: Position your high heat zone near the grease trap so drippings flow away from other cooking areas.

Best Oils for Griddle Cooking

Choosing the right oil for your Blackstone griddle depends on smoke point and flavor profile:

For Seasoning:

For Cooking:

Avoid olive oil for high-heat cooking as its lower smoke point can create excess smoke and off-flavors.

Popular Griddle Recipes

Perfect Smash Burgers: Form loose balls of ground beef (about 2-3 oz each). Place on a screaming hot flat top grill surface and immediately smash flat with a sturdy stainless steel spatula. Season with salt and pepper.

Flip after 2-3 minutes when edges are crispy. Add cheese and cover with a basting dome to melt. Flat top grills excel at smash burgers because the entire patty contacts the hot surface.

Griddle Breakfast Platter: Utilize your temperature zones: cook bacon on high heat, hash browns on medium, and eggs on low. Everything finishes at the same time and stays warm until plated.

Hibachi-Style Stir Fry: Heat your flat top grill to maximum temperature. Cook proteins first, push to the side, then add vegetables. Use squeeze bottles to add soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. The high heat creates authentic restaurant-style results that you simply cannot achieve on a standard grill.

Crispy Bacon: Lay bacon strips in a single layer on a cold griddle surface. Turn the heat to medium and let the bacon cook slowly as the griddle heats up. This renders the fat gradually for perfectly crispy results without curling.

Use the rendered fat to cook eggs or hash browns afterward.

Chicken Wings on Blackstone Griddle: Pat wings completely dry and season liberally. Start on medium-high heat, cooking each side for 6-8 minutes. The flat top creates crispy skin without deep frying.

Toss in your favorite sauce during the last minute of cooking. The griddle surface allows for excellent caramelization that’s hard to achieve in an oven.

Philly Cheesesteaks: Freeze your ribeye for 30 minutes for easier slicing into thin strips. Cook sliced onions and peppers on medium heat until caramelized, push to the side.

Sear the thinly sliced beef on high heat for 60-90 seconds, season with salt and pepper. Pile meat and vegetables together, top with cheese, and cover with a basting dome until melted. The large cooking surface makes it easy to prepare multiple sandwiches simultaneously.

Griddle Cooking Best Practices

To get the most out of your flat top grill, follow these proven techniques:

Preheat Properly: Always allow your griddle to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking. An infrared thermometer helps you verify temperatures across the cooking surface.

Different areas will heat differently, and knowing your griddle’s hot spots improves results.

Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between items for proper heat circulation. Overcrowding drops the griddle temperature and leads to steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if necessary.

Use Water Strategically: A splash of water under a basting dome creates instant steam for melting cheese or finishing proteins. Keep a squeeze bottle of water handy for this purpose and for quick surface cleaning between items.

Master the Smash: For the crispiest smash burgers, press within 30 seconds of the meat hitting the hot surface. Once the crust forms, don’t press again – you’ll squeeze out the juices. Let the Maillard reaction do its magic.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper care ensures your Blackstone griddle provides years of reliable cooking performance and maintains its non-stick seasoning.

Daily Cleaning Routine

After each cooking session:

  1. While the griddle is still warm (not hot), scrape off food debris with a metal scraper
  2. Pour a small amount of water on the surface to create steam that loosens stuck-on food
  3. Scrape again while the water evaporates
  4. Wipe the surface with paper towels or a dedicated griddle cloth
  5. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil across the entire cooking surface
  6. Allow to cool, then cover with a protective cover or hood

Deep Cleaning Process

Perform a deep clean monthly or when the seasoning becomes compromised:

  1. Heat the griddle on high for 15 minutes to burn off residue
  2. Allow to cool slightly (still warm but safe to touch)
  3. Apply a generous amount of water and scrub with a griddle stone or heavy-duty scrub pad
  4. Scrape and wipe clean, repeating until no discoloration transfers to your cloth
  5. Dry completely with paper towels
  6. Re-season following the initial seasoning process

Preventing Rust

Rust is the enemy of any steel cooking surface. Prevent it by:

Seasonal Storage Tips

If storing your griddle for extended periods:

  1. Perform a thorough deep clean
  2. Apply a heavy coat of cooking oil or griddle conditioner
  3. Cover the griddle top with a protective bag or wrap
  4. Store in a dry location away from moisture
  5. Before first use after storage, clean the surface and re-season

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Uneven Heating: Ensure burner tubes are clear of debris and properly aligned. Spider webs and insect nests can block burner orifices – inspect these annually.

Some temperature variation is normal; use it to your advantage for zone cooking. If one burner consistently underperforms, check for bent or misaligned burner tubes.

Food Sticking: Your seasoning may need attention. Clean thoroughly and re-season the surface. Also ensure you’re preheating adequately and using enough cooking oil. Cold surfaces and insufficient oil are the most common causes of sticking.

Igniter Not Working: Check battery (if applicable), ensure burners are dry, and verify gas flow. Clean the igniter electrode with a soft brush to remove carbon buildup.

If the igniter produces sparks but won’t light, check for propane tank issues or blocked burner ports. Most igniters can be replaced affordably if they fail completely.

Rust Spots: Sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper or a griddle stone, clean thoroughly, and re-season that section. For extensive rust, you may need to strip and re-season the entire cooking surface.

Prevent future rust by always oiling after cleaning and using a quality cover.

Warped Griddle Top: Some warping during heating is normal and the surface typically flattens when it cools. Extreme warping can result from heating an empty griddle too long or from sudden temperature changes.

Avoid thermal shock by preheating gradually and never pouring cold water on a screaming hot surface.

Propane Smell Without Ignition: This indicates gas is flowing but not igniting. Turn off gas immediately and wait five minutes for dispersal.

Check all connections for leaks using soapy water (bubbles indicate leaks). Ensure the propane tank valve is fully open and the regulator is properly seated.

Yellow or Orange Flames: Healthy propane flames should be mostly blue. Yellow or orange flames suggest incomplete combustion, often caused by blocked air intake or dirty burner ports. Clean burner tubes with a pipe cleaner and ensure air shutters are properly adjusted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Blackstone griddle should I buy?

Choose based on how many people you typically cook for and how you’ll use the griddle. A 22-inch model suits 2-4 people and offers excellent portability. A 36-inch model is ideal for families of 4+ or those who frequently entertain. If portability is paramount, opt for a tabletop or On-The-Go model.

How do I season a new Blackstone griddle?

Heat your clean, dry griddle until the surface begins to darken. Apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil like flaxseed or avocado oil. Let it smoke completely until dry. Repeat 3-4 times. Your griddle is seasoned when it has a uniform dark, slightly glossy appearance.

What oil is best for Blackstone griddle?

For seasoning, use flaxseed or avocado oil due to their high smoke points and polymerization properties. For cooking, avocado oil works well for high-heat applications, while butter can be used for flavor on lower-heat items.

Can I use a Blackstone griddle indoors?

Blackstone flat top grills are designed for outdoor use only. Like any propane grill, they require proper ventilation due to propane combustion and produce significant smoke during cooking. Using a propane grill indoors creates serious safety and health hazards.

How do I prevent food from sticking?

Maintain proper seasoning by oiling after each use. Preheat your griddle adequately before cooking. Use enough cooking oil for the items you’re preparing. Avoid moving food too early – proteins will release naturally when properly seared.

What accessories do I really need?

Start with the essentials: a quality long-handled stainless steel spatula designed for flat top grills, a sturdy stainless steel scraper for cleaning, squeeze bottles for oil and water, and a protective cover to guard against the elements. These basics will handle 90% of your cooking needs.

As you cook more, consider adding a basting dome for melting cheese and steaming, egg rings for perfectly shaped breakfast items, and a griddle stone for deep cleaning. A comprehensive accessories kit often provides the best value for new griddle owners.

How long does it take to season a new Blackstone griddle?

The initial seasoning process takes about 45-60 minutes to complete properly. You’ll apply 3-4 thin layers of oil, allowing each layer to smoke off completely before adding the next. Each coating takes roughly 10-15 minutes.

While you can cook on a griddle after just one seasoning layer, the more layers you apply initially, the better your non-stick surface will perform. The seasoning continues to improve with regular use over time.

Why is my griddle sticky after seasoning?

A sticky surface typically results from applying too much oil during seasoning. The excess oil doesn’t polymerize properly and remains tacky.

To fix this, heat your griddle to high temperature to burn off the sticky residue, then start fresh with very thin oil applications. Remember: with seasoning, less is more. You should barely be able to see the oil layer you’re applying.

How often should I re-season my griddle?

With proper daily maintenance (cleaning and light oiling after each use), you shouldn’t need to fully re-season often. Most griddle owners find that re-seasoning once or twice per year is sufficient, typically at the start and end of the outdoor cooking season.

However, if you notice food sticking persistently or see rust developing, it’s time for a deep clean and re-season.

Can I leave my Blackstone griddle outside?

Yes, but proper protection is essential. Always use a weather-resistant cover when not in use. The griddle top itself is made of cold-rolled steel that will rust if exposed to moisture.

Even with a cover, storing in a covered patio area provides extra protection. In harsh climates, consider moving your griddle to a garage or shed during winter months.

Conclusion

Blackstone griddles have earned their reputation as the go-to choice for outdoor flat top cooking. The versatility of a quality flat top grill simply cannot be matched by traditional grilling – from pancake breakfasts to hibachi dinners, smash burgers to Philly cheesesteaks, the cooking possibilities are virtually endless.

Whether you choose the versatile 36″ Omnivore Griddle for backyard feasts and feeding crowds, the portable 22″ Tabletop for camping adventures and tailgating, or the ultra-compact On-The-Go model for RV trips and outdoor exploration, you’re investing in equipment that will transform your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.

Our Top Recommendations:

Remember that the griddle is just the beginning – quality accessories like stainless steel spatulas, protective covers, and cleaning tools are essential for protecting your investment and maximizing your cooking potential.

Take the time to properly season and maintain your griddle surface, and it will reward you with years of delicious meals and memorable outdoor cooking experiences.

Start with the model that matches your cooking needs and available space, add the essential accessories, and master the fundamentals of seasoning and heat management.

Before long, you’ll be creating restaurant-quality dishes that will impress family and friends at every cookout. The flat top grill revolution has arrived – it’s time to join in.

Rate this post

Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.

Keep Reading