Blackstone 1814 Portable Propane Griddle Review Ideal for Outdoor Cooking Adventures

Description

Compact Design That Packs a Punch

I put the Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Flat Top Griddle to the test, and let me say, its portable design was one of the first things that stood out. At just 17.5″ L x 8.5″ H x 18″ W, it’s compact enough to fit comfortably in the trunk of my car, yet spacious enough to handle serious cooking tasks. The 17-inch cooking surface was surprisingly generous—it accommodated up to 9 burgers, 9 pancakes, or 12 eggs at once. Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or simply grilling in the backyard, the size strikes a perfect balance between portability and functionality.

The stainless steel construction adds a touch of durability and elegance. It feels like it could withstand a bit of rough handling during outdoor adventures. The height-adjustable rubber feet were particularly impressive, offering stability even on uneven surfaces like gravel or grassy patches.

Performance That Delivers Every Time

I’ve tried several portable griddles before, but this one’s 12,000 BTU “H”-shaped burner stole the show. The heat distribution was incredibly even, and I never had to worry about one side of my bacon burning while the other remained undercooked. The built-in igniter made starting it up effortless, and I appreciated how it allowed me to adjust heat intensity for different dishes. From sizzling steaks to fluffy pancakes, this griddle didn’t disappoint.

One of the best parts? It heats up fast. I was able to start cooking almost immediately, thanks to the quick heat-up feature, which makes it perfect for impromptu meals during road trips or camping.

Key Benefits

• Portable and Compact: Ideal for camping, tailgating, or backyard grilling.
• Generous Cooking Surface: The 17-inch griddle can handle multiple items simultaneously.
• Efficient Heat Distribution: The “H”-shaped burner ensures even cooking.
• Durable Build: High-quality stainless steel with adjustable feet for stability.

Cleaning is a Breeze

Cleaning up after a hearty outdoor meal is often a nightmare, but this griddle made it surprisingly easy. The integrated grease tray was a lifesaver, catching all the drippings without overflowing. Sliding it out to empty was quick, and wiping down the cooking surface with a damp towel was all it took to get it clean.

The stainless steel surface didn’t hold onto burnt bits, which is a huge plus for someone like me who hates scrubbing endlessly. Whether I was grilling burgers or cooking up a stir-fry, cleanup was a hassle-free process every time.

Areas of Concern

Not everything about this griddle is perfect, though. Here are a few hurdles I encountered:

• Propane Tank Not Included: You’ll need to purchase a 1 lb. propane bottle or a 20 lb. tank with an adapter hose, which adds to the overall cost.
• No Lid Lock: While the hood is a great addition, I noticed it doesn’t lock securely, which could be inconvenient during transport.
• Limited Size for Larger Groups: While perfect for 2-4 people, it might struggle to cater to a bigger crowd.

Competing Products

I’ve also used other portable griddles, like the Coleman RoadTrip 285 and the Cuisinart CGG-501 Gourmet Gas Griddle, and there are definitely differences worth noting. The Blackstone’s stainless steel build feels sturdier compared to the Coleman’s plastic-heavy design. On the other hand, the Coleman offers a slightly larger cooking surface, which might appeal to those cooking for bigger groups.

The Cuisinart CGG-501 shares a similar compact design with the Blackstone but doesn’t heat up quite as quickly, in my experience. However, it does come with a lid that locks securely, which is something the Blackstone could improve on.

Where the Blackstone excels is in its even heat distribution and adjustable rubber feet, features that neither competitor matches. It’s clear that this griddle was designed with outdoor cooking enthusiasts in mind.

Money’s Worth

One of the things I kept asking myself while testing this was whether it offers value for money. In my opinion, it does. While the initial investment might seem steep, the durability, performance, and portability make it a smart buy for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.

Compared to less expensive models, you’re getting a griddle that feels premium without being overly bulky. The stainless steel construction ensures it’ll last for years, and the 12,000 BTU burner provides restaurant-quality results every time. If you’re a fan of outdoor cooking, this product is more than worth its price tag.

This griddle has earned a permanent spot in my camping gear. It’s not flawless, but its performance and convenience outweigh the minor drawbacks by a long shot.

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