As an outdoor cooking enthusiast, I quickly grew to love the Blackstone 36 inch griddle as one of my preferred tools. Regardless of if you are planning the next weekend cook-out or just cooking some breakfast on your patio, this cold-rolled steel flat-top griddle will quickly turn into a flexible cooking platform whenever or wherever you are cooking. The Blackstone griddle 36 inch has no reliance on electricity like some indoor appliances, just hook up propane tanks to the Blackstone and you will be cooking in minutes.

I have used all types of portable griddles, as well as permanent griddles, but the reason I love the 36 inch Blackstone griddle is due to its cold rolled steel cook top which heats evenly, but you can use it for every cooking application from pancakes, to burgers. It is equipment that makes you feel like a master chef, even when cooking bacon on Sunday.

What is a Blackstone Griddle?

A Blackstone griddle is not just a grill, it is an outdoor cooking game-changer for people like me who love outdoor cooking. The first time I cooked breakfast on the flat-top surface of a griddle, the heat was so even that everything turned out perfect from the pancakes to the eggs.

What makes the Blackstone 36 in griddle so special is the surface area, it gives you the space to cook for your whole family at once. The surface of the griddle is made from cold-rolled steel which gives it better heat conduction and holds heat longer even with two different products cooking at the same time.

The Blackstone 36” griddle Costco sells has four adjustable burners so you can control the heat of each zone. This way you can create high heat on one section and a low heat on another to warm up buns or other vegetables. The griddle uses propane tanks which snap in to make life easier and the tanks last for a long time, even for large cookouts. If you love cooking outside as much as I do, the Blackstone will give you restaurant-quality food from your backyard.

Buy Now

Benefits of Cooking with a Griddle

• Professional-Grade Performance: As a former line cook, I appreciate how this griddle mimics a restaurant-style cooking surface—hot, even, and reliable.

• Even Heat Distribution: No more cold spots! I can cook bacon, pancakes, and burgers side-by-side without worrying about uneven cooking.

• All-in-One Convenience: With the built-in air fryer, I can crisp, fry, and griddle at the same time—perfect for complete meals in one go.

• Versatile for All Meals: Whether it’s a big breakfast spread or a quick stir fry, it handles it like a pro.

• Use Year-Round: From chilly mornings to sunny afternoons, the Blackstone performs great in all weather conditions.

• Brings Back Diner-Style Cooking: I can bring my tried-and-true diner recipes outdoors and get the same delicious results.

• Creative and Fun Cooking: It makes everyday cooking exciting, letting me experiment and enjoy the process.

• Time-Saving: Speeds up meal prep with multiple zones and cooking functions, making it perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.

Overview of Blackstone Products

When I first experienced the Blackstone 36 inch griddle tractor, I was amazed by how easy outdoor cooking was made to feel. Blackstone has a diverse array of products that can suit any type of grilling enthusiast. One of my favorites is the blackstone 36 culinary omnivore griddle that combines precision heat with a large enough surface area to entertain family and friends. If you were pizza fan, I recommend the blackstone pizza oven. I never tasted a pizza that evenly cooked and flavors that were rival to the restaurants.

If you wanted to think about more of a stylish setup, the blackstone iron forged 36 griddle with hood will provide you both stylish and performance in your backyard. Even the blackstone 4 burner 36 griddle provides enough power to cook on multiple dishes at once, but the blackstone 36 inch omnivore griddle is largely created for more serious cooks.

If you could be a more traditional grill user or simply following the most recent TikTok trends; it feels like Blackstone offers something for the current outdoor cook. Their grill accessories take just about thing I have noticed that take any dish straight from the page from Taste of Home, and I noticed that people are treat Blackstone gear like the best part of TikTok and rightly so.

Features of the Blackstone 36 Griddle

After years of backyard BBQing, I can confidently say that the Blackstone 36 griddle black is built for an outdoor chef! This is not just any backyard BBQ, this is a full station! The Blackstone 36 griddle with hood comes with an industrial hood which captures high heat to give your food the right sear and has wind guards for wind protection.

What I love about this entire setup is the multiple burner availability, which means I can make independent cooking zones. I can make eggs on one end while grilling burgers on another end and not worry about burning either product. The 36 in Blackstone griddle with hood also has an enclosed propane tank compartment which, again, keeps this setup clean and provides security.

The storage is smart too, so many built in drawers and cabinets, housing my tools and seasonings right at my fingertips. Did I mention the grease-collecting system? It makes clean-up after cooking fast and simple. Whether it’s the Blackstone 36 gas griddle, Blackstone 36” griddle with hood, or the Blackstone 36 griddle grill, this model has every feature a backyard cook could want.

Design and Build Quality of the Blackstone 36 Griddle

I know a thing or two about BBQs, weekends, and sharing ‘griddle goodness’ with friends and family, after 10+ years taking BBQs to the next level, I am absolutely convinced the Blackstone 36 griddle black is for real outdoor cooks. This isn’t your average backyard grill; it’s a full-on workstation. The Blackstone 36 griddle with hood actually adds that heavy-duty hood that holds the high heat for the perfect sear, even when its windy out… the heavy wind guards protect the grill surface as well.

The also great thing about working across this cooking surface is each of the burners creates independent cooking zones. So I can be cooking eggs on the left side and burgers on the right side of the surface without burning something! The 36in Blackstone griddle with hood also provides an enclosed propane tank compartment that keeps functional outdoor cooking, clean and safe.

Smart storage plays an important role too; with drawers and cabinet storage within reaching distance of all your grilling tools and seasonings. Not to mention the grease-collecting system- cleanup is instant after cooking! Blackstone has a gas griddle with power, a Blackstone 36” griddle with hood, a Blackstone 36 griddle grill- it has all the features an outdoor backyard chef could ask for!

Griddle Plate and Burner Specifications of the Blackstone 36 Griddle

When I first used the Blackstone 36 gas griddle, what impressed me most was its cold-rolled steel surface. This material not only makes the griddle plate strong but also helps in even heat distribution across the cooking area. Whether I was making breakfast for two or grilling burgers for a group, the heat stayed consistent, which really boosted my cooking performance.

Another standout is the blackstone 4 burner propane gas hard top griddle 36 in, which comes with multiple burners. These adjustable burners let you control the temperature in different zones, perfect when you’re cooking various foods at once. Pair that with the blackstone 36 griddle hood, and you get better heat retention, especially when grilling thicker cuts of meat. Plus, with the generous blackstone 36 griddle dimensions, there’s more than enough space to cook a full meal in one go. The powerful built-in burners make this griddle not just a backyard tool, but a real outdoor kitchen essential.

Side Shelf and Cooking Space of the Blackstone 36 Griddle

After cooking on the blackstone 36 gas griddle during several backyard BBQs, I can confidently say that its cold-rolled steel surface is a game changer. This material not only makes cleaning easier but also ensures even heat distribution, which means your burgers, pancakes, and veggies cook perfectly every time. The surface heats fast and holds that heat, giving you consistent cooking performance, no matter the recipe.

One thing I really appreciate is the multiple burners setup. The blackstone 4 burner propane gas hard top griddle 36 in features adjustable burners, so you can create different heat zones. Sear steaks on one side while keeping buns warm on the other, this flexibility is rare. Plus, the blackstone 36 griddle hood helps trap heat, especially on windy days, adding even more control over your meals. The blackstone 36 griddle dimensions give you a spacious surface to cook for large groups, and the built-in burners make it all work smoothly.

Shop Now

Cooking with the Blackstone 36 Griddle

When using the blackstone 36” griddle with hood and front shelf, I quickly noticed how much easier food prep became. The surface area is large enough to prep and cook at the same time, which saves you trips back and forth to the kitchen. The front shelf is not just for looks, it adds space to keep tools close and your process smooth. The cutting board fits perfectly, making it ideal for slicing ingredients right where you cook.

One thing I truly value about the blackstone 36 griddle with hard cover and folding shelves is its attention to small, helpful details. The folding shelves not only give you extra room when you need it, but they also fold down easily for compact storage. On the side, you’ll find a paper towel holder, garbage bag hangers, and even smart storage options that make cleanup feel less like a chore. It’s clear this setup was designed with real outdoor cooks in mind, giving you space, tools, and freedom to cook your best.

Buy Now

Griddle Cooking Techniques of the Blackstone 36 Griddle

Cooking on the Blackstone 36 Griddle Grill feels like having a restaurant kitchen in your own backyard. When I first tried it, the sizzle alone made the experience feel professional. The large flat top is perfect for high-yield recipes, and you can cook an entire meal at once without juggling pans. Whether it’s smash burgers with caramelized onions, cheese, and perfectly toasted buns, or hearty breakfast spreads with eggs, pancakes, and has browns, this griddle handles it all with ease. I especially love using two spatulas to press and flip patties, classic diner style.

If you’re using the Blackstone 36 Griddle with Hood or the Blackstone Griddle 36” with Hood, you’ll appreciate how it helps trap heat for even cooking and keeps grease splatter controlled. Grilling hot dogs becomes effortless, and cleanup stays simple. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a weekend cookout, the Blackstone 36 Griddle Grill gives you versatility and fun every time you fire it up.

Popular Recipes for Outdoor Griddling

Cooking on the Blackstone 36 Griddle feels like having a professional kitchen outdoors. One of the first things I learned was how essential the right blackstone griddle 36 accessories are. A good set of spatulas helps flip food evenly, while a squeeze bottle filled with vegetable oil is a must for maintaining that hot, slick surface. I always keep a cast-iron skillet nearby, especially when I want to sear steaks or sauté veggies. It’s amazing how well it works right alongside the flat top.

For best results, I rely on proper cast iron seasoning. This protects the surface and makes cooking almost nonstick. After each use, I go through a quick cleaning routine using the scraper from my 36 blackstone griddle accessories kit and wipe down with oil to preserve the seasoning. The built-in grease trap is super helpful too, it keeps the surface clean and safe while you’re cooking multiple dishes. These little things, paired with the right blackstone 36 griddle accessories, make a huge difference in the food quality and the whole experience.

Using the Griddle with an Air Fryer Combo

Cooking outdoors on the blackstone 36 griddle air fryer combo has changed how I enjoy weekend meals with family. One of my go-to dishes is a full pancake breakfast with crispy bacon on the side. The wide surface of the 36 blackstone griddle with air fryer lets me cook chocolate chip pancakes and bacon together, so everything is hot and ready at the same time. After that, I often use the air fryer to crisp up hash browns without any extra oil.

For lunch, the blackstone 36 griddle with air fryer shines when making juicy cheeseburgers. I like to load mine with classic burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, and grilled onions. The griddle gives that perfect sear, while the air fryer crisps up fries or onion rings right beside them. Dinners are all about variety, stir-fries and fried rice come together quickly, picking up a rich flavor from the seasoned surface. And when it’s time for dessert, nothing beats a warm blueberry cobbler made right on the griddle, topped with a scoop of ice cream straight from the cooler.

Comparing the Blackstone 36 with Other Models

When choosing between the 36 inch griddle Blackstone and other options, it’s clear that size and features play a big role. I’ve cooked on both the Blackstone 28 vs. Blackstone 36, and the extra space on the 36 makes a big difference for family meals. The Blackstone original 4-burner offers more heat control, which helps when cooking different foods at once. What stood out to me with the Blackstone 36 Omnivore Griddle was its ability to hold consistent heat across the surface, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

If you’re looking to refresh your setup, the Blackstone 36” griddle top replacement and Blackstone 36 griddle top replacement options are ideal for bringing an old unit back to life without buying a new one. I read a Taste of Home editor review that highlighted how the 36-inch model gives better searing and more room to prep everything from pancakes to burgers. Whether you’re upgrading or comparing for the first time, this product comparison helps understand what makes the 36-inch model so popular.

Blackstone 28 vs. Blackstone 36

 

Feature	Blackstone 28 Griddle	Blackstone 36 Griddle
Cooking Surface Area	Smaller surface, suitable for 1–4 people	Larger surface, ideal for 4+ people or group cooking
Cooking Capacity	Limited for large meals	Can handle multiple meals at once
Number of Burners	2 Burners	4 Burners
Heat Control Zones	Less control, fewer independent zones	Multiple zones for separate heat control
Best For	Casual grilling, small families	Entertaining, family gatherings, batch cooking
Versatility	Good for basic griddle meals	Excellent for diverse meals (pancakes, burgers, veggies, etc.)
User Experience	Compact and easy to store	Professional feel with full outdoor kitchen capability

Propane Griddle of the Blackstone 36 Griddle Options 

When I first upgraded to the Blackstone 4-burner 36 griddle cooking station with hard cover, I immediately noticed the power of having a truly gas-run setup. This model offers a spacious cooking surface that heats evenly, and thanks to the enclosed propane tank compartment, it keeps everything tidy and protected while you’re cooking. For those who cook outdoors often, this design feature makes a huge difference, especially in windy or dusty areas.

 

I’ve also used the Blackstone 36 Original 4-Burner Propane Omnivore Griddle with a hard cover. Its versatility really stood out to me. It handles everything from searing meat to flipping pancakes. Both models connect easily to standard propane tanks. This gives you a smooth, reliable fuel source for long grilling sessions. If you’re searching for a serious propane griddle option, these two Blackstone models deliver performance, convenience, and solid construction.

Buy Now

Choosing Between the Omnivore Griddle and Flat Top Grill

As someone who’s cooked both at home and in a restaurant setting, I can confidently say that choosing between an omnivore griddle and a flat-top grill depends on what kind of cooking experience you’re after. The Blackstone 1554 36 Omnivore Griddle is built for those who want serious outdoor performance. It feels like using the gear from a professional line cook, fast, hot, and built to handle anything from breakfast to dinner. The heat control and space are great for weekend BBQs. Here, the taste of home truly shines.

If you want more features, consider the Blackstone 36 Omnivore Griddle with Hood. It’s a step up. That hood keeps heat in and allows for steaming or melting cheese, which adds versatility. The Blackstone Omnivore 36 in 4-Burner Griddle Station gives you more firepower and space, perfect if you’re cooking for a crowd or want to experiment with multiple dishes at once. That flexibility let me grill veggies on one side and smash burgers on the other. I didn’t have to worry about mixing flavors.

Maintenance and Care for Your Blackstone Griddle

Caring for your Blackstone 36 griddle is easy. But doing it well can really extend its life and improve your food’s flavor. After using it for a while, I learned that keeping the seasoning layer strong is key. It gives that perfect non-stick surface and keeps rust away. Clean the surface gently with warm water and a scraper, but never soak it, water sitting on the griddle leads to rust quickly.

Always check your blackstone 36 griddle parts list or blackstone 36” griddle parts list if something doesn’t feel right. I once had to get a blackstone 36 griddle replacement knob and it was easy because I had the part number handy.

For cold months, winter storage is important. I usually clean the griddle, coat it with oil to protect the seasoning layer, and store it in a dry place. Don’t forget to clean the grease-collecting system regularly. A clogged one can cause messy flare-ups. If something wears out, it’s easy to find a 36” Blackstone griddle replacement on Blackstone’s website or in their manuals.

Cleaning and Seasoning the Griddle Plate

After using my Blackstone 36” griddle lid hinge kit, I always make it a habit to focus on proper cleaning and seasoning. It’s the best way to keep the nonstick surface performing like new. The first step is to turn the burners on high to begin the burn off process. This helps remove stuck-on food. Once cooled slightly, I gently scrape off residue using a griddle scraper and wipe it down with a damp cloth.

For cast iron seasoning, I apply a thin layer of vegetable oil across the surface. I heat the blackstone 36 griddle lid hinge kit until the oil starts to smoke, which builds up the seasoning layer. Doing this after every cook gives the griddle a strong, durable coat that resists rust and sticking. It might seem like a chore at first, but it becomes second nature and truly extends the life of your griddle.

Storing Your Griddle with Hard Cover

When the cooking season winds down, it’s smart to protect your Blackstone 36 griddle by storing it properly. I keep mine under the awning in the backyard. But when the weather changes, I move it to the garage for better protection. A hard cover is a must-have, it keeps the cooking surface safe from dust, pests, and moisture. I recommend using a cover for 36 Blackstone griddle or a Blackstone griddle 36 cover that fits snugly and stays in place.

For winter storage, it’s even more important to be careful. Whether you’re placing the griddle in a shed or a garage, always use a reliable 36 inch Blackstone griddle cover or a Blackstone 36 griddle cover. These covers are made to fit just right, keeping the unit dry and clean. I once skipped this step, and the griddle plate started to rust. I always cover my Blackstone 36-inch griddle, and you should too.

Shop Now

Regular Maintenance Tips Of Blackstone 36 Griddle

Taking care of your Blackstone 36 griddle doesn’t have to feel like a chore. From my own weekend cookouts, I’ve learned that a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping it working like new. After each use, I always start with a proper burn off by turning the burners to high heat for 10-15 minutes. This helps loosen any stuck food and reduce grease buildup. After it cools a bit, I clean the surface with a metal scraper. Then, I wipe it down with a cloth that’s lightly oiled to stop rust. For more expert tips and product insights, visit Deep Dive Picks.

One mistake many new users make is ignoring airflow. Keep your griddle in a well-ventilated spot. This helps avoid trapping oxygen, which can cause corrosion to speed up. I remember my struggles with the Blackstone 36 griddle assembly instructions. But once it’s set up, the trick is lighting it safely. Just push in the igniter knob and turn it slowly until the flame catches. With the right habits, your griddle will stay reliable for years of cooking fun.

Conclusion

After using the Blackstone 36 griddle for months, I can confidently say it stands out in both backyard cookouts and daily meal prep. My personal griddle review is based on real use, flipping burgers for family and trying a tested recipe for stir-fry that turned out amazing. Its wide surface heats evenly, which means excellent cooking performance without worrying about cold spots.

This isn’t just another blackstone 36 griddle review, it’s an honest view shaped by real meals and moments. The Blackstone brings home-cooked taste to every bite. You can grill steak or flip pancakes with ease. If you’re still debating, this review should help you decide, it’s not just a griddle, it’s an upgrade to your cooking game.

FAQs

What is the difference between the Blackstone 36 and 28?

The Blackstone 36 griddle has a larger cooking surface and 4 burners, ideal for big meals. In contrast, the 28-inch model is smaller with 2–3 burners, suited for everyday use.

How long does it take to season a 36-inch Blackstone griddle?

Seasoning a Blackstone 36 griddle takes about 1 hour with oil and high heat. Repeat the process 3–4 times for a strong, non-stick layer.

What is the lifespan of a Blackstone griddle?

With proper care, a Blackstone 36 griddle can last 15 to 20 years. Regular cleaning and seasoning are key to its long life.