Review of Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28” Griddle for Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Blackstone 2311 Iron Forged 28” Omnivore Griddle immediately impressed me with its robust design. The powder-coated steel frame feels incredibly sturdy, and the X-braced hood adds an extra layer of durability. What stood out to me is the quality of the carbon steel cooking surface, which delivers a professional-grade feel. The 524 square inches of cooking space might sound like just a number, but trust me, once you lay out 21 burgers or 15 pancakes at a time, you’ll realize how spacious this griddle is. The side shelves with tool hooks and an accessory bar system are practical additions that make meal prep much smoother, especially when juggling multiple utensils.

While the griddle is heavy at 88.2 pounds, the inclusion of wheels makes it manageable to move around. I found the powder-coated finish not only visually appealing but also resistant to scratches and outdoor elements. However, assembling the unit required a bit of effort. It’s not overly complicated, but having a second pair of hands would’ve sped things up.

Cooking Performance

Cooking on this griddle felt like stepping into a chef’s shoes. The Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology truly shines here. It heats up quickly, retains high temperatures, and recovers heat faster than expected. I tested it with breakfast items like pancakes and bacon, and later grilled chicken and vegetables for dinner—all cooked evenly without any cold spots. The dual independent burners are a game-changer. For example, I could sear steaks on one side while keeping veggies warm on the other.

What really caught my attention was how well the griddle plate prevented warping, even after extended use at high heat. This is a huge plus because I’ve had griddles in the past that warped over time, making cooking uneven. And as someone who cooks outdoors frequently, the built-in wind guards were a lifesaver, ensuring the flames stayed consistent even when it got breezy.

Key Benefits

• Durable construction: The powder-coated steel frame and carbon steel top ensure long-lasting use.
• Versatile cooking space: With 524 square inches, cooking for a group becomes a breeze.
• Dual burners: Independently controlled heating zones allow simultaneous cooking of different items.
• Efficient heat retention: The Omnivore technology ensures faster recovery and minimal fuel use.
• Convenient side shelves: Tool hooks and accessory bars keep everything within reach.

Hassle-Free Cleanup

Cleaning up after cooking has always been my least favorite part, but this griddle changes the game. The rear grease management system is an absolute lifesaver. Instead of grease pooling in hard-to-reach areas, it seamlessly guides everything to the back, where it collects in a removable grease cup. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to remove and clean the cup. For someone who enjoys cooking but dreads post-meal cleanup, this feature is a major win. However, I did notice that the grease cup fills up quickly when cooking larger meals, so you’ll want to keep an eye on it.

Areas for Improvement

• The assembly process could be more straightforward; clearer instructions would help.
• While the griddle’s weight provides stability, it can be challenging to move around on uneven surfaces.
• The grease cup fills up quickly during larger cooking sessions, requiring frequent emptying.

Competing Products

Compared to other griddles I’ve tried, this product holds its own remarkably well. For instance, the popular Camp Chef flat-top griddle offers similar cooking space but lacks the X-braced hood for added durability. On the other hand, Blackstone’s rear grease management system is far superior to the side-mounted systems found on competitors, which tend to leak.

That said, the Camp Chef griddle does have an edge with its adjustable leg design, making it more stable on uneven terrain. Another competitor, the Pit Boss tabletop griddle, is more portable but sacrifices cooking space and heating power. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a griddle that balances size, performance, and durability, this one is tough to beat.

Cost-Effectiveness

When evaluating the price-performance ratio, this griddle feels like a smart investment. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of high-quality materials, innovative features, and reliable performance makes it worth the cost. I’ve used griddles that were less expensive but lacked the durability and thoughtful design of this one. The inclusion of features like the tool holder, wind guards, and dual burners further enhances its value. In my opinion, this product offers true value for anyone serious about outdoor cooking.

Additional information