Blackstone 1814 Propane Gas Griddle Review Portable 17-Inch Outdoor Cooking Station

Description

Portable Design for Outdoor Enthusiasts

I’ve been testing out the Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Griddle, and its portability is easily one of its standout features. Compact and lightweight, this griddle is perfect for outdoor adventures like camping, tailgating, and picnics. Measuring just 17.5″ L x 8.5″ H x 18″ W, I could fit it in the trunk of my car without any hassle, which made it incredibly convenient for impromptu weekend trips. The stainless steel construction not only looks sleek but also feels durable enough to handle rough terrain.

The height-adjustable rubber feet came in handy on uneven surfaces, like when I set it up on a bumpy campsite table. Stability is crucial when cooking outdoors, and this griddle didn’t budge. It’s clear that the design is well-thought-out for outdoor use.

Efficient Cooking Performance

The 12,000 BTUs of heat output on this griddle is no joke. I was able to whip up meals quickly, and the H-style burner provided consistent heat distribution. This feature ensured that there were no cold or overly hot spots on the cooking surface, which is a common problem I’ve faced with other portable griddles.

Cooking breakfast for my family was a breeze. The spacious 17-inch cooking surface allowed me to cook 9 burgers, 9 pancakes, or 12 eggs simultaneously. It’s perfect for feeding a small group—whether it’s family or a few friends. I even tried stir-frying some veggies and bacon, and the results were evenly cooked and delicious.

Easy Cleanup for Hassle-Free Use

Cleaning up after cooking is often the part I dread the most. Thankfully, the integrated grease tray on this griddle made cleanup relatively painless. It caught all the drippings and grease, so there was no mess on the table or ground. I simply slid the tray out, emptied it, and gave the cooking surface a quick wipe with a damp cloth.

It’s worth noting that the stainless steel surface is non-stick, which significantly reduced the time spent scrubbing off stuck food. Whether I was cooking burgers or pancakes, nothing clung stubbornly to the surface.

Key Benefits

• Compact and portable design for easy transportation.
• Generous cooking surface ideal for small groups or families.
• Even heat distribution thanks to the H-style burner.
• Quick and easy cleanup with the integrated grease tray.

Areas for Improvement

• The griddle uses a 1 lb. propane bottle, which didn’t last long during extended cooking sessions. A larger tank would be more convenient for longer outings, but you’ll need to purchase an adapter separately.
• The igniter worked well most of the time, but it occasionally required a couple of tries to light up.
• While the stainless steel surface is durable, it does scratch easily if you’re not careful with metal utensils.

Cooking Versatility

One of the things I appreciated most about this griddle was its versatility. It handled everything from breakfast favorites like pancakes and bacon to dinner staples like burgers and stir-fried vegetables. The ability to adjust the heat intensity allowed me to experiment with different recipes.

I tried making a stir-fry dish directly on the flat top, and the food cooked evenly without any sticking issues. The griddle also handled high-heat cooking like searing steaks beautifully. For anyone who loves experimenting with outdoor cooking, this griddle is a fantastic option.

Product Rivals

Compared to other portable griddles on the market, this one holds its own quite well. A popular competitor, the Cuisinart CGG-501 Gourmet Gas Griddle, offers a similar cooking experience but lacks the same sturdy rubber feet for uneven surfaces. The Blackstone griddle feels more stable and durable, especially when you’re cooking in the outdoors.

Another contender is the Camp Chef VersaTop, which includes additional accessories like a grill box. However, the Blackstone griddle’s compact size and easy portability give it an edge for those who prioritize space efficiency. That said, the Camp Chef model does offer better propane tank compatibility out of the box.

Smart Spending

From a value for money perspective, this griddle is impressive given its durable build, efficient cooking performance, and portability. While it’s not the cheapest option in its category, it delivers on its promises, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking.

The stainless steel construction ensures longevity, and the consistent heat distribution minimizes food wastage. While the cost might seem slightly higher than some alternatives, the Blackstone griddle’s features and ease of use justify the price.

This griddle has quickly become one of my favorite tools for outdoor cooking. Whether I’m whipping up breakfast at a campsite or grilling burgers in the backyard, it delivers a reliable and enjoyable cooking experience.

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