Blackstone Tabletop Griddle Review Portable Gas Grill with Powerful Heat Control

Description

Positive Features That Impress Me

Using the Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle daily has given me a clear picture of its versatility and efficiency. The two powerful H-style burners deliver a whopping 24,000 BTUs, which means the griddle heats up fast and maintains consistent temperatures. This allows me to cook multiple dishes at once without worrying about uneven heat, an absolute game-changer for outdoor cooking sessions. The 339 square inch steel cooking surface is surprisingly spacious for a compact model, fitting around 12 burgers or 30 hot dogs with ease, making it perfect for family gatherings or tailgates. I’ve flipped pancakes, seared steaks, and grilled veggies all on this surface without crowding.

• Portable and lightweight design makes it super easy to carry to camping trips or backyard cookouts.
• The stainless steel faceplate and rolled carbon steel cooking surface resist rust and wear, ensuring durability.
• Two adjustable heat controls with built-in igniters simplify temperature management for different foods.
• Grease catcher spray system reduces mess and speeds up cleanup, which I appreciate after a long cookout.

Areas of Concern That Could Use Improvement

Not everything about this portable griddle is perfect, and I noticed some issues that potential buyers should consider. The assembly process took a bit longer than I expected since the instructions were somewhat vague, and a few screws felt like they could loosen over time. Also, while the adjustable-height rubber feet help stabilize the griddle on uneven surfaces, the overall unit can wobble slightly if not placed on a very flat area. This minor instability might be a concern if you’re cooking in rocky or sloped terrains.

• The weight of 25.3 pounds is manageable but might feel heavy for some users looking for ultra-lightweight gear.
• Using the 1 lb propane bottles is convenient, but for longer cooking sessions, the lack of an included adapter for larger tanks could be limiting.
• The griddle surface, while rust-resistant, requires regular seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties, which might be a chore for casual users.
• The powder-coated steel frame looks great but is prone to scratches during transport.

Design and Portability: Small but Mighty

The compact design of this tabletop griddle caught my attention immediately. It’s almost deceptive how such a small unit can pack a punch with two burners and a large cooking surface. The dimensions (22.5” L x 19” W x 9” H) make it easy to fit in the trunk or even on a picnic table without taking up too much space. The rubber handle is comfortable to grip, which helps when moving it around, though I recommend using a protective cover during transport to avoid scratches on the black powder-coated finish. The adjustable rubber feet add a layer of stability, but I found that placing it on a perfectly level surface works best for safe and optimal use.

Cooking Performance and Versatility

I’ve tested this griddle with everything from a full breakfast spread of eggs, bacon, and pancakes to quick lunches like quesadillas and burgers, and even dinner staples such as seafood and fajitas. The independent heat controls let me cook bacon on one side while warming tortillas on the other without overcooking either. The grease management system is a thoughtful touch, making cleaning up a breeze by channeling excess fat away from food and into a removable cup. The rolled carbon steel surface heats evenly and retains heat well, meaning I don’t have to constantly adjust the burners. My family enjoyed the consistent cooking results, and even my picky kids were happy with how quickly their food was ready.

Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

Considering the features packed into this portable griddle, I’d say it offers solid value for money. It’s not just another lightweight camping stove; it provides a true griddle experience with powerful burners and ample cooking space. Compared to other portable grills that often lack temperature control or sufficient surface area, this model stands out for its durability and multi-functionality. The small propane tank compatibility is a plus for quick trips, although investing in a propane adapter hose (sold separately) is wise for longer outings. If you want a dependable, compact griddle that covers all your outdoor cooking needs without breaking the bank, this one deserves serious consideration.

Product Competitors: How It Stacks Up

I’ve used a few other portable griddles, including models from Camp Chef and Cuisinart, which makes comparison interesting. The Camp Chef flat top grill offers a slightly larger cooking surface but is bulkier and less portable. Its single burner design means less precise temperature control compared to Blackstone’s dual burners. Cuisinart’s portable griddle is lighter but lacks the durable carbon steel cooking plate, which impacts heat retention and evenness.

This Blackstone griddle excels in heat output and surface quality, making it ideal for serious grillers who want flexibility and power while on the go. However, competitors might edge it out on ultra-portability or price. The grease management system is also a unique feature that competitors don’t always include, adding to the convenience factor.

User Experience: What My Friends and Family Think

My brother, who’s notorious for his picky grilling habits, admitted that this griddle made his burgers juicier and more evenly cooked than his usual charcoal grill. My kids were thrilled with the speed and variety of meals we could prepare outdoors, from pancakes to grilled cheese sandwiches. Even my neighbor, who’s a camping enthusiast, appreciated how easy it was to set up and clean, calling it a “game-changer” for tailgating. Despite some minor quirks, the consensus around my circle is that this griddle delivers solid performance and convenience.

Durability and Maintenance

The rolled carbon steel surface requires seasoning to keep its natural non-stick properties, and I found that regular maintenance prevents rust and prolongs its lifespan. The powder-coated steel frame looks sleek but can chip if knocked around too much, so careful handling during transport is advisable. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the grease catcher, but some stubborn residue on the cooking surface still demands a good scrape now and then. Overall, the griddle holds up well under frequent use, and its materials seem built to last through many outdoor adventures.

For anyone weighing a compact griddle for outdoor cooking, this product strikes a balance between size, power, and versatility. It’s not flawless, but its strengths in heating performance, build quality, and thoughtful features like grease management make it a dependable choice for backyard chefs, campers, and tailgaters alike.

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