Blackstone 22” Griddle Review – Portable & Powerful
Introduction
Tired of lugging around a massive grill just to cook a few burgers or pancakes? Do you crave the flexibility to grill wherever you go – from tailgates to campsites to your own patio? The Blackstone 22” Tabletop Griddle offers a solution. It tackles the common issues of bulky grills, limited portability, and inconsistent heat, providing a surprisingly powerful and versatile cooking platform in a compact package. It’s perfect for those who want serious grilling performance without the hassle of a full-sized setup.
Overview
The Blackstone 22” Tabletop Griddle is a compact powerhouse designed for ultimate portability and versatility. Constructed with a durable black powder-coated steel faceplate and a robust alloy steel frame, it’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. This isn’t just a glorified hotplate; it boasts two independently controlled “H” style burners delivering a substantial 24,000 BTUs of heat, transforming it into a surprisingly capable grilling and searing machine. It’s ideal for backyard grillers, tailgaters, campers, or anyone needing a portable and powerful cooking solution for small to medium-sized gatherings.
Features
Versatile Cooking Surface: The 339 sq. inch cooking surface is more than adequate for a variety of foods, allowing you to cook burgers, pancakes, fajitas, eggs, bacon, or even seafood. The rolled carbon steel surface provides excellent heat distribution and a non-stick cooking experience.
High-Powered Portable Design: This griddle’s compact design and lightweight construction (32lbs) make it exceptionally portable, perfect for tailgating, camping, or small patios. It’s easily transported and set up, eliminating the fuss of traditional grills.
Independent Burner Control: Two separate “H” style burners offer unparalleled control over the cooking temperature. This allows you to create distinct heat zones, searing one area while keeping another warm for slow cooking or holding food.
Rear Grease Management System: The innovative rear grease management system efficiently directs excess grease into a collection cup, making cleanup significantly easier and minimizing flare-ups. It’s a crucial feature for maintaining a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.
Durable Construction & Easy Igniton: Built with a powder-coated steel faceplate and alloy steel frame, the Blackstone griddle promises years of reliable performance. Integrated igniters on each burner provide effortless startup, taking the guesswork out of lighting the griddle.
Benefits
Cook Anywhere, Anytime: The lightweight and compact design allows you to take the grill on any adventure—camping, tailgating, the beach, or your own patio.
Easy Cleanup & Maintenance: The rear grease management system minimizes mess and simplifies cleanup after your grilling session.
Versatile Meal Options: Beyond burgers and hot dogs, this griddle is capable of cooking a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals, from pancakes and eggs to fajitas and grilled seafood.
Durable, Long-Lasting Value: Built with high-quality materials and robust construction, the Blackstone griddle offers excellent value for its price point, promising years of grilling satisfaction.
Precise Temperature Control: Independent burner control lets you customize your cooking zones to prepare dishes to perfection.
Usages
Backyard Barbecues: Ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings, providing plenty of cooking space for friends and family.
Perfect for Tailgating: Its portability and power make it the ultimate tailgating companion, allowing you to enjoy a full grilling experience wherever the game is.
Camping & Outdoor Adventures: Elevate your camping experience with the ability to grill and cook a variety of meals, far beyond the limitations of a campfire.
Weeknight Family Dinners: Quickly cook a delicious meal for your family on the patio, without the hassle of a large, cumbersome grill.
Searing Steaks & Smokes Ribs: The independent burners offer the ability to sear steaks and smoke ribs simultaneously with dedicated heat zones.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredibly portable and lightweight
- Powerful 24,000 BTU heat output
- Independent burner control for versatile cooking
- Easy to clean with rear grease management system
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance
Cons
- Requires a 1lb propane bottle (not included)
- May be too small for large groups
- Carbon steel surface requires seasoning before first use
- Assembly required (relatively simple)
- Limited wind protection without a windscreen
FAQs
What is the warranty?: Blackstone offers a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Refer to the product manual for full warranty details.
How easy is it to clean?: Cleaning is made simple with the rear grease management system, which directs excess grease into a collection cup. Regular scraping and occasional cleaning with a grill brush are recommended.
Can I cook with it in the rain?: While it can handle light rain, it’s best to avoid using the griddle in heavy rain or adverse weather conditions to protect the burners and ensure safe operation.
What is the cooking area?: The cooking surface measures 339 square inches, providing ample space for grilling a variety of foods.
What fuel does it use?: The Blackstone 22” Tabletop Griddle uses a standard 1 lb. propane bottle, which is readily available at most retailers. It also accepts a 20 lb. propane tank with an adapter hose (not included).
Product Specifications
| temperatureRange | Variable, adjustable with burner controls |
| grateMaterial | Rolled Carbon Steel |
| wheelsMobility | No wheels, designed for tabletop use |
| cookingArea | 339 sq. in. |
| ignitionSystem | Built-in Igniters |
| materialType | Powder-coated steel faceplate, alloy steel frame, rolled carbon steel cooking surface |
| weight | 32 LBS |
| BTUs | 24,000 BTUs |
| fuelType | Propane (1lb or 20lb with adapter) |
| cleaningRequirements | Regular scraping & occasional deep cleaning with grill cleaner |
| includedAccessories | User Manual |
| warranty | Limited Warranty (refer to product manual) |
| hopperCapacity | N/A |
| dimensions | 22.44”D x 22.87”W x 9.8”H |
Ratings
| portability | 4.8 |
| easeOfUse | 4.9 |
| versatility | 4.4 |
| cookingPerformance | 4.6 |
| durability | 4.7 |
| heatDistribution | 4.5 |
Recommendation
The Blackstone 22” Tabletop Griddle is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a portable and versatile grilling solution. It’s especially well-suited for tailgaters, campers, and those with limited patio space who still desire the flavor and convenience of grilled food.
Unlike larger, stationary grills, this tabletop model offers unmatched portability without sacrificing cooking power. If you’re looking for a grill that can easily travel with you and deliver consistent results, the Blackstone 22” is an excellent investment.
Conclusion
The Blackstone 22” Tabletop Griddle successfully bridges the gap between convenience and performance. Its portability, powerful burners, and versatile cooking surface make it a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking arsenal. While its smaller size may not suit large gatherings, its ease of use and exceptional portability make it a standout option for solo cooks, small families, and adventure-seekers alike. Expect consistent, flavorful results and a hassle-free grilling experience.