So, you’ve got yourself a brand spanking new Blackstone griddle and you’re itching to get cooking. But where do you start? With so many delicious options at your fingertips, it can be tough to decide what to make first. Fear not, my friend. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you create mouth-watering meals that will have your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie in the kitchen, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to get started. From breakfast classics like fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and sunny-side-up eggs to savory staples like juicy burgers, sizzling steaks, and perfectly grilled veggies – we’ll show you how to cook it all on your Blackstone griddle.
But before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s cover some basics. We’ll walk you through how to preheat your griddle for maximum flavor and teach you the importance of seasoning it properly. Plus, we’ll share our must-have tools and accessories for grilling success.
So whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just whipping up a quick dinner for yourself, we’ve got everything you need to become a Blackstone griddle pro. Are you ready to fire up that bad boy? Let’s get cooking.
Contents
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
If so, you need to add a Blackstone Griddle to your arsenal of cooking appliances. This versatile and popular tool features a flat, smooth cooking surface made of steel or cast iron that heats evenly and quickly. With the ability to cook everything from breakfast foods like pancakes, eggs, and bacon to stir-fry dishes and grilled cheese sandwiches, the Blackstone Griddle is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
One of the best things about the Blackstone Griddle is its range of sizes. You can choose from models ranging from 17 inches to 36 inches, making it easy to find the perfect size for your needs. The larger cooking surface means you can cook more food at once, making it ideal for feeding a crowd.
Cooking on a Blackstone Griddle is a breeze. Once you’ve seasoned the griddle with high-fat content foods like bacon or sausage, you’re ready to start cooking. The flat surface allows for even cooking and the ability to create a crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. And because there are no grates or bars to worry about, flipping food is a breeze.
Another advantage of using a Blackstone Griddle is its ease of cleaning. After each use, simply wipe down the cooking surface with a damp cloth or scraper. Some models even come with a built-in grease trap that collects excess fat and oil, making cleanup even easier.
But what really sets the Blackstone Griddle apart is its versatility. You can use it to cook everything from breakfast foods to stir-fry dishes and even desserts like crepes or cinnamon rolls. And because it’s powered by propane or natural gas, you can take your outdoor cooking game to new heights.
Why Should You Season a Blackstone Griddle?
Before you start whipping up breakfast, lunch, and dinner on this versatile tool, it’s essential to season the surface. As an expert, I can tell you that seasoning is not just an optional step – it’s crucial for several reasons.
Firstly, seasoning creates a non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. Without seasoning, food can stick to the surface, leading to unevenly cooked meals and frustrating clean-up. But with a well-seasoned Blackstone griddle, you can flip pancakes and eggs with ease and wipe away any residue quickly.
Moreover, seasoning also protects the griddle from rust and corrosion. The high heat used during the seasoning process creates a seal that prevents moisture from seeping into the surface and causing damage over time. So not only does seasoning improve your cooking experience, but it also helps to prolong the life of your investment.
To maintain the benefits of seasoning, it’s essential to do it regularly. Many Blackstone enthusiasts recommend seasoning after every use or at least once a week if the griddle sees frequent action. By doing so, you’ll ensure that your griddle remains non-stick and free from rust or corrosion.
What Foods Should You Use to Season the Griddle?
One of the most crucial steps in unlocking the full potential of your griddle is seasoning it correctly. But, what foods should you use to season the griddle? Don’t sweat it – I’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to get started.
First things first, let’s talk oils. You can use various oils to season your griddle, including vegetable oil, canola oil, flaxseed oil, or even bacon grease. But, keep in mind that some oils work better than others in creating a non-stick surface. So, choose wisely.
Once you’ve chosen the right oil, it’s time to season your griddle. Start by applying a thin layer of oil all over the surface of the griddle using a paper towel or brush. Be sure to cover every inch of the surface, including the edges and corners. Turn up the heat on high and let the oil heat up until it starts smoking. This process will help the oil bond to the griddle’s surface, creating a non-stick layer that will stand up to repeated use.
Now that your griddle is seasoned, it’s time to get cooking. Start with high-fat foods like bacon or sausage. The high-fat content will help lubricate the surface and prevent sticking while also creating a natural non-stick layer on your griddle. Plus, who doesn’t love starting their day with some delicious breakfast meat?
Next up, vegetables. Cooking onions, peppers, and mushrooms on your seasoned griddle will infuse them with delicious smoky flavors while also helping lift any residue or debris from the surface. The moisture from these veggies will create steam that helps clean off any remaining bits of food or seasoning left on your griddle.
Finally, seafood is an excellent choice for seasoning your Blackstone griddle. Delicate seafood like shrimp, scallops, and fish require a non-stick surface to prevent sticking, and cooking them on your seasoned griddle produces a fantastic charred flavor that adds depth to any dish. Plus, seafood is an excellent source of protein, making it a healthy and delicious option for any meal.
Cooking Burgers on a Blackstone Griddle
First and foremost, preheating your griddle is crucial. This ensures even cooking and prevents your burgers from sticking to the surface. While the griddle heats up, season your burgers with your favorite spices. Whether it’s classic salt and pepper or a creative blend of herbs and spices, the choice is yours.
Once your griddle is hot, it’s time to start cooking. Some prefer to add a bit of oil or butter to the griddle before placing their patties on it, but this is optional. Place the burgers on the griddle and let them cook for a few minutes on one side until they easily release from the surface with a spatula.
When it’s time to flip, continue cooking until your burgers reach your desired level of doneness. Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature adds an extra layer of safety and ensures that your burgers are cooked through. To maximize flavor, I recommend letting your burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat resulting in a juicier and more flavorful burger.
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle provides an unparalleled charred flavor that elevates your burger game. It’s an excellent way to take control over the cooking process and achieve perfectly cooked burgers every time.
Cooking Vegetables on a Blackstone Griddle
With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be cooking up some seriously tasty and healthy veggies in no time.
Step 1: Proper Prep is Key
Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prep your vegetables properly. Give them a good wash and dry, then slice them into even pieces so that they cook evenly. Trust us, taking the extra time to prep your veggies will pay off in the end.
Step 2: Choose Your Veggies Wisely
Not all veggies are created equal when it comes to griddle cooking. Some of our favorite options include asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and squash. These veggies cook quickly and can be seasoned to perfection.
Step 3: Season Like a Pro
Now comes the fun part – seasoning your veggies. For asparagus, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. For bell peppers, slice them into thin strips, then drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper. For zucchini and squash, slice them into rounds or lengthwise strips, season with your favorite herbs and spices, and grill until tender.
Step 4: Keep a Watchful Eye
When cooking vegetables on a griddle, they can cook quickly. To prevent burning, flip them frequently and keep a watchful eye on their progress. If needed, wipe down your griddle periodically to prevent sticking.
Preparing Breakfast Foods on a Blackstone Griddle
Look no further than your trusty Blackstone griddle. This versatile appliance is perfect for cooking up a delicious and fun breakfast spread that will revitalize your mornings. As an expert in preparing breakfast foods on a Blackstone griddle, I’m here to share some tips and tricks to help you get started.
Let’s start with bacon – a classic breakfast staple that can be cooked to crispy perfection on a Blackstone griddle. To ensure even cooking, it’s best to start with a cold griddle and let the bacon slowly cook to render out the fat. This will also help season the surface for future use. Once the bacon is finished, you can use some of the leftover grease to cook other breakfast items like eggs or hash browns.
Speaking of eggs, they are another great option for the Blackstone griddle. Whether you prefer scrambled, fried, or made into an omelet, eggs cook up beautifully on the griddle. Make sure to crack them onto the griddle once it has heated up a bit, but not too hot, to prevent sticking and allow for easy flipping.
Hash browns are another popular breakfast food that can be cooked on a Blackstone griddle. Shredded potatoes seasoned with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices can be placed onto the griddle and cooked until crispy and golden brown on both sides. It’s a simple but delicious addition to any breakfast spread.
And let’s not forget about pancakes and French toast. These classic breakfast items can also be cooked on a Blackstone griddle, but they may require a bit more oil or butter than other items to prevent sticking. However, they are still incredibly tasty when cooked on this versatile appliance.
Stir-Fry Dishes, Quesadillas and Other Meals for the Blackstone Griddle
Look no further than stir-fry dishes, quesadillas, and other meals that are perfect for this versatile cooking surface.
Stir-fry dishes are a quick and easy option that can be customized to your liking. Start by heating up your griddle and adding in your favorite aromatics like garlic and ginger. Next, add in your protein of choice such as chicken or beef and cook until it’s no longer pink. Then, toss in your veggies and sauce and cook until everything is heated through and well combined. It’s a delicious meal that’s ready in minutes and can be served over rice or noodles.
Quesadillas are another great option for the Blackstone griddle. Heat up your griddle to medium-high heat and place a tortilla on the surface. Add your desired filling – whether it’s cheese, chicken, veggies, or a combination of all three – and fold the tortilla in half. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and guacamole for an appetizer or main course that’s sure to please.
But that’s not all – the Blackstone griddle is also perfect for classic favorites like pancakes, eggs, burgers, and hot dogs. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try grilling some veggies or even a pizza on your Blackstone griddle?
Desserts to Cook on the Blackstone Griddle
Often overlooked for its savory cooking capabilities, this versatile surface can also whip up some seriously delicious sweet treats.
Let’s start with the classic pancake. While often enjoyed for breakfast, pancakes can be transformed into a decadent dessert with just a few simple tweaks. Think blueberry, chocolate chip, or even pumpkin pancakes, cooked up quickly on the griddle and topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. It’s a dessert that’s both easy and indulgent.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more exotic, try churros. This popular fried dough snack originated in Spain but has since become a global favorite. The Blackstone Griddle is the perfect surface for cooking up these crispy treats. Pipe the dough onto the griddle in long strips, fry until golden brown and then coat in cinnamon sugar. Serve with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to impress.
For those seeking a lighter option, grilling fresh fruit on the Blackstone Griddle is an excellent choice. Pineapple, peaches, and bananas all work well on the griddle and can be topped with Greek yogurt or drizzled with honey for added sweetness. This healthy dessert is both refreshing and satisfying.
Last but not least, let’s not forget about everyone’s favorite campfire treat: s’mores. While typically enjoyed outdoors, s’mores can easily be made on the Blackstone Griddle by placing graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows onto the surface until they’re melted and gooey. It’s a fun dessert option that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of what to cook first on your Blackstone Griddle, it’s clear that this versatile cooking appliance is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out in the kitchen, the Blackstone Griddle has everything you need to create mouth-watering meals.
From breakfast classics like fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and sunny-side-up eggs to savory staples like juicy burgers, sizzling steaks, and perfectly grilled veggies – the possibilities are endless with your Blackstone griddle. But before you dive into the deliciousness, let’s cover some basics.
First things first: preheating your griddle is essential for maximum flavor and even cooking. And don’t forget to season it properly. Using high-fat content foods like bacon or sausage can help create a non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.
But the versatility of your Blackstone Griddle doesn’t end there. It’s also perfect for preparing stir-fry dishes, quesadillas, and other meals that are quick and easy to customize. And let’s not forget about desserts. From classic pancakes to churros and even grilled fruit, this versatile surface can whip up some seriously delicious sweet treats.
In summary, whether you’re looking to cook up a hearty breakfast or a mouth-watering dinner, the Blackstone Griddle has got you covered. With its range of sizes and easy-to-use features, it’s an excellent investment for anyone who loves great food with minimal fuss.
