Blackstone 1814 Portable Propane Griddle Review Powerful 2024 Outdoor Cooking Station

Description

Portable Design and Outdoor Versatility

Using the Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Flat Top Griddle has been a surprisingly liberating experience. Its compact size—measuring about 17.5″ long, 8.5″ high, and 18″ wide—makes it incredibly easy to carry around, fitting snugly in the trunk of my car for impromptu tailgating or camping trips. Its portable convenience shines through, making outdoor cooking a breeze whether you’re at a beach, park, or backyard. The height-adjustable rubber feet keep the griddle stable on uneven surfaces, which I tested on grassy and slightly muddy grounds, and it never wobbled, letting me cook confidently without worrying about spills or uneven cooking.

Cooking Surface and Heat Performance

Despite its small footprint, this griddle packs a punch with a 17-inch stainless steel cooking surface that offers roughly 268 square inches of space. I managed to cook 9 burgers, 9 pancakes, or 12 eggs simultaneously, which is perfect for feeding a small family or a couple of friends. The 12,000 BTU “H” style burner impressed me with its fast heat-up time and even heat distribution; no more burnt edges or cold spots. The built-in igniter made firing up the griddle quick and easy, and I could adjust the heat intensity smoothly from low to high. Cooking bacon, steaks, or stir-fry on this griddle felt effortless, and the stainless steel surface gave a nice sear without sticking too much.

Cleaning and Maintenance Ease

Cleaning is usually the bane of outdoor cooking, but this griddle made it surprisingly painless. The integrated grease tray caught all the oils and juices, which meant no nasty drips ruining my countertop or picnic table. After cooking, I simply slid the tray out, emptied it, and wiped down the surface with a damp paper towel. The stainless steel construction helped prevent stubborn food residue, and I appreciated how quickly the griddle cooled down for cleanup. Even my kids got involved in cleanup duty without fuss, which added to the overall enjoyable experience.

Positive Features

The Blackstone griddle’s lightweight nature and portable design are real standouts, especially for someone like me who loves to cook on the go. The fast heat-up and even cooking surface ensure meals come out consistently good without having to babysit the grill. It’s also versatile enough to cook a variety of meals, from breakfast classics like pancakes and eggs to dinner staples like burgers and stir-fries. The sturdy build with stainless steel materials offers durability and easy maintenance. Plus, the adjustable feet and stable base allow for use on all kinds of terrains, which is a thoughtful touch for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Highly portable and fits in tight spaces
• Even heat distribution with quick ignition
• Easy cleaning thanks to integrated grease tray
• Large enough cooking surface for small groups

Drawbacks

Even though I’m quite satisfied overall, a few things could be better. The griddle weighs 35.2 pounds, which isn’t exactly featherlight; carrying it solo for long distances can be a bit of a workout. The propane setup requires a 1 lb. propane bottle or a 20 lb. tank with an adapter (both not included), so if you forget to pack the right fuel, you’re out of luck. Also, the lid/hood is nice for controlling heat and protecting the surface, but it adds to the weight and bulk, making it less sleek for quick transport. The cleaning tray, while convenient, could be larger to reduce emptying frequency during longer cooking sessions.

• Heavier than expected for a “portable” model
• Propane bottles and adapters not included
• Hood adds bulk and weight
• Grease tray could hold more for extended use

Alternative Offerings

Looking at other portable propane griddles on the market, some competitors offer slightly lighter models, but they often sacrifice cooking surface size or heat output. For example, the Camp Chef Lumberjack griddle is lighter but doesn’t have the same stainless steel build quality or the convenient grease management system found here. On the other hand, some pricier options boast bigger surfaces or dual burners but lose portability. This griddle’s balance of durability, heat power, and size puts it in a sweet spot for weekend adventurers and backyard chefs alike. If you prioritize ease of cleaning and stability on uneven ground, this model outperforms many rivals, though it’s not the lightest or ultra-compact.

Value Proposition

Assessing the price against the features, this griddle offers solid value for money. You get a robust, stainless steel flat top with 12,000 BTUs of power, which is impressive for its size and portability. The versatility to cook a wide range of foods, from breakfast to dinner, plus the quick cleanup, makes it a worthwhile investment if you love outdoor cooking. It may not be the cheapest option out there, but the durability and thoughtful features justify spending a bit more. For casual grillers who want a reliable, easy-to-use portable griddle, it’s definitely worth considering.

User Experience and Practical Insights

My friends and family have enjoyed meals cooked on this griddle, and even my picky eaters love watching pancakes and bacon sizzle right in front of them. One time, during a camping trip, the stable feet really saved the day when we set it up on uneven ground. Cleaning it was so easy that no one dreaded the post-meal chore. The only time I struggled was carrying it uphill due to its weight, but that’s a small price to pay for such a versatile cooking companion. The ability to connect to different propane sizes is a bonus, though I had to buy the adapter separately. Overall, it’s been a fun, reliable addition to my cooking toolkit.

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