Blackstone Vs Gas Grill: Which One is Worth Your Money?

When it comes to outdoor grilling, there are many different options available. One of the most popular choices is a Blackstone and a gas grill. Blackstone grills offer a unique cooking experience with their large flat top surface, while gas grills provide an easy and convenient way to cook burgers, steaks, and more. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but which grill is best for your needs? We’ll look at the differences between Blackstone vs gas grill so you can decide which one is right for you.

What is Blackstone Griddle?

Put, a Blackstone Griddle is a flat-top grill for outdoor cooking. It’s made from high-quality materials designed to withstand the elements, and it’s perfect for cooking everything from breakfast foods to burgers and steaks.

One of the things that makes the Blackstone Griddle so popular is its versatility. You can use it to cook just about anything, and because it has a large cooking surface, it’s perfect for cooking for large groups of people. And unlike a traditional grill, you don’t have to worry about food falling through the grates or getting stuck.

The Blackstone Griddle is also incredibly easy to use. It heats up quickly and evenly, so you can start cooking right away. And because it has a non-stick surface, you don’t have to worry about food sticking to the grill or burning.

Another great thing about the Blackstone Griddle is that it’s easy to clean. The non-stick surface makes it easy to wipe down with a damp cloth, and the grease management system ensures that any excess grease or food particles are collected in a removable drip tray.

If you love outdoor cooking, the Blackstone Griddle is worth checking out. It’s a great investment that will last years and make your outdoor cooking experience more enjoyable.

Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle 2 Burner Propane Fuelled Rear Grease Management System – Top Product

What is Gas Grill?

A gas grill is a cooking appliance that uses propane or natural gas as fuel to heat grates on which you can place your food for cooking. Gas grills typically consist of a metal box that houses the burners, a cooking grate, and a hood to trap the heat and smoke. The burners are the heart of the grill and are responsible for heating the cooking surface. Most gas grills have multiple burners, allowing you to control the temperature of different areas of the cooking grate and cook different types of food simultaneously.

One of the biggest advantages of gas grills is their ease of use. Unlike charcoal grills, you don’t have to spend time starting a fire or waiting for the coals to heat up. With a gas grill, you turn a knob, and the burners ignite, delivering instant heat to the cooking surface.

Another advantage of gas grills is their versatility. They’re great for cooking everything from burgers and hot dogs to vegetables and pizza. Many gas grills include side burners, rotisserie attachments, and smoker boxes, giving you even more cooking options.

Of course, there are some downsides to gas grills as well. While they’re great for convenience, they don’t impart the same smoky flavor as charcoal grills. Additionally, propane tanks can be expensive to replace, and natural gas grills require a gas line to be installed, which can be costly.

What Are The Main Similarities Between Blackstone And Gas Grill?

I find it fascinating to compare different types of grills and their features. One comparison that is often made is between Blackstone and gas grills. While both grills have unique features, some similarities are worth highlighting.

• Firstly, both Blackstone and gas grills run on propane gas, which makes it easy and convenient to use. You can attach a propane tank to the grill, and you’re ready to start cooking.
• Secondly, both types of grills offer a wide range of cooking temperatures, allowing you to cook a variety of foods at different temperatures. This is especially important when cooking meats, as you don’t want to overcook or undercook them.
• Thirdly, Blackstone and gas grills offer a large cooking surface, perfect for large groups or families. With the right accessories, you can even cook multiple items at the same time.
• Fourthly, both types of grills offer a quick and easy cleanup process. Blackstone grills have a built-in grease management system that makes cleaning up a breeze, while gas grills often have removable drip trays that can be easily cleaned.
• Lastly, Blackstone and gas grills offer a great way to bring family and friends together for a delicious meal. There’s nothing quite like the smell of grilled food and the sound of laughter and conversation in the background.

In conclusion, there are many similarities between Blackstone vs. gas grills, from the convenience of propane gas to the quick and easy cleanup process. Regardless of which type of grill you choose, both offer a great way to enjoy delicious food with loved ones and make lasting memories.

What Are The Main Differences Between Blackstone Vs Gas Grill?

The main difference between a Blackstone griddle and a gas grill is their cooking surfaces. Traditional grills have a ridged cooking surface where food is cooked using the direct heat of the gas or charcoal flame. In contrast, a Blackstone griddle has a flat stainless steel surface where food is cooked.

This means while gas or charcoal grills offer a smokey and charred flavor to the food, Blackstone griddles provide a slightly juicier, fattier, and tastier piece of meat due to food coming into complete surface contact with the heat. However, the excess fats and oils drip out of the meat and into the gaps between the bars of a gas or charcoal grill, resulting in a slightly healthier meal.

Therefore, choosing between a Blackstone griddle and a gas grill depends on one’s priorities. A Blackstone grill is a perfect fit for those prioritizing taste over health, and a gas grill is a better option for those prioritizing slightly smokier and healthier food.

Which Type Of Grill Is Better At Searing Meat?

Due to their direct heat and flame, gas grills are often the go-to for searing meat. This allows for a quick and intense sear on the surface of the meat, creating a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Meanwhile, Blackstone griddles do not have a direct flame but instead rely on the high heat of the metal surface to produce a similar sear.

The key is ensuring the griddle is preheated to a high temperature before adding the meat. While both grills can produce a satisfactory sear, it depends on personal preference and the cooked recipe.

Flavor

When it comes to flavor, the main difference between a Blackstone griddle and a gas grill lies in the type of meats they produce. Gas grills create a smoky, charred flavor that cannot be replicated on a griddle. This is because a gas grill uses direct heat from the flame to cook the food. On the other hand, a Blackstone griddle offers juicier, fattier meat, resulting in a different flavor. The excess fats and oils do not drip from the meat as they would on a grill, resulting in a slightly richer taste.

Those seeking slightly smokier, healthier food may opt for a gas grill, while those desiring fattier, juicier meat may choose a Blackstone grill. It’s worth noting that having both options available can provide a varied cooking experience.

Cooking Surface

Traditional gas or charcoal grills have a rigid cooking surface that uses the direct heat of the flame to cook the food. In contrast, a Blackstone griddle has a flat stainless steel surface on which the food is cooked.

While grills offer that unique smokey flavor, fat, and oils drip out of the meat onto the gaps between grill bars, making it slightly healthier. On the other hand, the griddle offers a slightly juicier and fattier piece of meat, which can highly benefit from conduction. The entire cooking surface on a griddle is heated, allowing the entire surface of the food to come in contact with the heat, resulting in a significantly tastier outcome than on a grill alone.

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Which Outdoor Cooking Method Offers Better Temperature Control: A Blackstone Griddle Or A Gas Grill?

Blackstone griddles offer precise temperature control due to the evenly distributed heat across the cooking surface. This means food is cooked evenly without hot spots, resulting in a perfectly cooked meal. On the other hand, gas grills with open flames may have some temperature fluctuations, making it more challenging to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This could result in some parts of the food being overcooked while others are undercooked. In conclusion, Blackstone griddles offer better temperature control compared to gas grills.

Flat Top Griddle vs. A Standard Gas Grill

Traditional gas or charcoal grills have a ridged cooking surface and rely on direct heat from the flame to cook food. On the other hand, a Blackstone griddle has a smooth, flat stainless steel surface that functions like a giant pan or skillet.

While traditional grills offer that signature smokey, charred flavor, griddles are known for producing juicier, fattier meats with a unique flavor. Additionally, griddles allow conduction cooking, where the entire surface of the food comes in contact with the heat, making for a tastier result.

Heat Distribution

Blackstone griddles offer an even cooking surface, resulting in evenly cooked food every time. The H-formation burners on Blackstone gas griddles can reach temperatures of up to 60 thousand BTUs, making it a perfect choice for cooking a variety of food items at the same time. In contrast, while gas grills also use propane heat, they typically have raised surfaces that can create hot and cold spots. Gas grills, however, are ideal for grilling food items with pockets that allow fat to drip away.

In summary, Blackstone griddles are better for even heat distribution, while gas grills are ideal for grilling food items with pockets that allow fat to drip away.

Price

When it comes to price, it ultimately depends on the model and brand chosen. Blackstone griddles generally are more affordable, starting at around $100, whereas gas grills can range from $200 to $2000. However, gas grills tend to offer more features and options, such as different burner settings, rotisserie attachments, and side burners.

Fuel Selection

While most Blackstone grills are powered by gas, gas grills may also be powered by propane or natural gas. Gas is an excellent fuel option for griddle cooking as it burns hot, clean, and efficiently. Smaller grills can use one-pound propane bottles or adapter hoses for larger propane tanks, while larger griddles require a 20-pound propane tank.

Natural gas may be the better option for those planning to keep their grill in the same spot for a while.

Most homes already have a natural gas supply, and a plumber can run a natural gas line to the cooking area. However, the type of fuel selection ultimately depends on personal preference, availability, and the intended use of the grill.

Are Blackstone Griddles More Versatile Than Gas Grills?

Blackstone griddles are often considered more versatile than gas grills due to their unique cooking surface. Unlike traditional gas grills, which have a rigid cooking surface that directly cooks food with flames, Blackstone griddles have a flat stainless steel surface that allows for a variety of cooking options.

With a griddle, it is possible to cook foods such as pancakes, rice, eggs, and stir-fry dishes that wouldn’t be possible on a standard gas grill. Mexican dishes, fajitas, and a traditional breakfast with bacon, eggs, ham, and potatoes can also be easily prepared on a Blackstone griddle. However, gas grills are still popular for allowing grease and water to escape, preventing them from pooling up on the cooking surface.

Upgrades

Regarding outdoor cooking, Blackstone griddles and gas grills offer distinct differences in features and functionality. Blackstone griddles provide a flat metal cooking surface heated from below, making it ideal for cooking foods like eggs, pancakes, and rice dishes.

On the other hand, gas grills feature a heating element with a grate placed over it, offering the ability to use different fuel sources such as gas, charcoal, and pellets for various cooking styles. While griddles can cook various foods, they may struggle with items like hotdogs that can easily roll off and won’t provide the smokiness that grills offer meats.

Storage

In terms of storage, a freestanding Blackstone griddle typically takes up more space than a gas grill of similar size due to its flat cooking surface. However, tabletop versions of the Blackstone griddle are more compact and easier to store. Gas grills often have additional storage space, such as cabinets and shelves for propane tanks and cooking utensils.

Ultimately, the choice between a Blackstone griddle and a gas grill depends on personal preferences and the types of food one intends to cook.

How Do Blackstone Griddles Compare To Gas Grills When It Comes To Cooking For A Crowd?

Blackstone griddles offer a wider, flat cooking surface compared to gas grills, making them more suitable for cooking for a crowd. Since griddles lack grates or gaps, they can handle foods difficult to cook on a traditional grill, such as eggs, pancakes, bacon, and finely chopped or sliced vegetables, making them perfect for large families with big appetites.

For instance, the Blackstone 36-inch Outdoor Griddle offers a spacious 720 square inches cooking surface, larger than most gas grills’ primary cooking area. Additionally, Blackstone’s griddle has four gas burners that offer a combined heat output of 60000 BTUs, making it more powerful than most gas grills. Thus, Blackstone griddles are a better option when cooking for a crowd than gas grills.

Which Type Of Grill Is Better For Outdoor Cooking: A Blackstone Or A Gas Grill?

When it comes to outdoor cooking, the main difference between a Blackstone griddle and a traditional gas or charcoal grill is the cooking surface. Grills have a ridged cooking surface and use the direct heat of the flame for cooking food, resulting in a slightly smokier and healthier meal. On the other hand, Blackstone griddles have a flat stainless steel surface that offers a slightly juicier and fattier piece of meat.

Grease Control

Blackstone griddles offer a front or rear grease management system, while gas grills usually have a bottom tray or drip pan to catch excess grease. The front grease management system on Blackstone griddles allows for easy collection and disposal of grease but may result in spills and messes if not used carefully. The larger catch basin on the rear system helps to minimize spills and make grease control more manageable.

On the other hand, gas grills with bottom trays or drip pans generally have less risk of grease spills and can be easier to clean, but they may not have the same level of options and versatility as a griddle.

Which Type Of Grill Is Easier To Clean: A Blackstone Or A Gas Grill?

Gas grills typically have removable grates and drip pans, making cleaning a breeze. The materials used in gas grills, such as stainless steel or porcelain-coated cast iron, are also resistant to rust and corrosion, which makes cleaning them even simpler. On the other hand, Blackstone griddles have a flat cooking surface that can collect grease and food debris. While they can still be cleaned with soap and water, completely cleaning the surface may take more effort.

Both gas grills and Blackstone griddles require some maintenance and cleaning, but they may be slightly easier to clean due to their removable parts and materials.

The Maintenance

A Blackstone griddle requires regular seasoning to maintain the surface and prevent rust. After each use, the grill must be cleaned to avoid buildup and ensure food safety. On the other hand, gas or charcoal grills require a bit more maintenance, including cleaning the grates and removing ash from the firebox. They also require frequent inspection of the gas line and tanks for safety.

Blackstone griddles are easier to maintain due to their simple design and fewer moving parts. However, both types of outdoor cooking equipment require regular upkeep to ensure longevity and safe operation.

Seasoning

The flat surface of the Blackstone griddle allows for easy distribution of seasoning and flavors, as the entire surface of the food comes in contact with the heat. This can result in a more evenly seasoned and flavorful meal. On the other hand, when cooking on a gas grill, seasoning may end up falling through the grates or not being distributed evenly, leading to a less flavorful result. However, it is still possible to season food effectively on a gas grill with some skill and proper technique.

Durability

When it comes to durability, Blackstone griddles are known for their toughness and longevity. Made of high-quality stainless steel, they are resistant to rust and corrosion. Proper maintenance and care can extend the life of a Blackstone griddle up to 20 years. In contrast, gas grills can be less durable, especially if made with lower-grade materials. The metal grates on a gas grill are often chromed steel, which can rust and wear over time.

With proper care, a gas grill can last several years, but usually not as long as a well-maintained Blackstone griddle. Choosing a Blackstone griddle may be better if durability is a primary concern.

Blackstone Griddles vs Grills: Which is Better?

The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the type of food being cooked. For those who prioritize slightly healthier, smokier flavors, a Grill may be the better option, while those who prioritize juicier, more flavorful meats may prefer a Blackstone Griddle. However, both options can coexist and provide a variety of cooking options for outdoor chefs.

What Are Some Of The Unique Features Of Blackstone Griddles That You Can’t Find On Gas Grills?

1. Large cooking area: One of the unique features of Blackstone griddles is their large cooking area. Unlike gas grills with limited cooking space, Blackstone griddles provide ample space to cook multiple items simultaneously, saving time and energy.

2. Even heat distribution: Blackstone griddles are made from cold-rolled steel, perfect for even heat distribution and controlled cooking across the entire surface. This ensures that your food cooks evenly and is not overcooked or undercooked.

3. Grease management system: Blackstone griddles have a patented rear grease management system that simplifies post-party cleanups. Blackstone griddles are easy to clean and maintain, unlike gas grills with messy grease trays.

4. Portable and easy to store: Blackstone griddles are designed to be portable and easy to keep away when not in use. The legs of the griddle fold up, making it easy to transport to a park or beach party.

5. Versatile cooking options: Blackstone griddles offer endless cooking applications, from breakfast spreads for a crowd to weeknight stir-fry and blueberry cobbler. You can cook foods that cook at different temperatures at once, like bacon and pancakes or chicken and sliced peppers, without using extra pans to wash.

6. Accessory storage: Blackstone griddles have ample storage space to hold all your griddle accessories, such as paper towel holders, magnetic knife strips, and counter-height shelves.

7. No flare-ups: Gas grills often produce flare-ups, which can be dangerous and negatively affect the taste of your food. On the other hand, Blackstone griddles do not produce flare-ups, ensuring that you get perfectly cooked food every time.

8. Value for money: Blackstone griddles offer excellent value for money and are relatively affordable compared to gas grills. They are durable, long-lasting, and require minimal maintenance, making them popular for families and grilling enthusiasts.

Pros And Cons Of A Griddle

Pro:

• Large Cooking Surface: A griddle provides a large and smooth cooking surface that allows for cooking multiple dishes at once. This makes it perfect for cooking for large gatherings and saves time from cooking dishes separately.
• Even Cooking: Griddles have a stainless steel flat surface that heats up evenly, ensuring that food cooks evenly and does not stick.
• Easy to Clean: A well-seasoned griddle can be easily cleaned with a spatula to scrape off food remnants and wiped down with a paper towel or cloth. Regular maintenance makes cleaning effortless.
• Great for Outdoor Cooking: Griddles are perfect for outdoor cooking as they allow for cooking several dishes at once and are fueled by propane for easy use.
• Healthy Cooking Option: Due to the flat and smooth cooking surface, food does not need additional oils or fats, making griddles healthier. Grease and fat can also be easily drained away.

Con:

• Limited Versatility: The flat surface of a griddle makes it best suited for cooking certain types of food, such as pancakes, burgers, and grilled sandwiches. It may not be the best option for cooking foods that require a grilling grate, such as steaks or vegetables.
• Requires Space: A griddle is a large appliance and requires space to store and use. A griddle may not be practical for smaller kitchens or limited storage space.
• Grease Buildup: Due to the nature of cooking on a flat surface, grease and fat can accumulate on the griddle. This can be remedied with a grease trap or regularly cleaning the surface.
• Limited Cooking Temperature: Griddles do not reach the high temperatures of traditional grills, which means some foods may not get the char or sear they would on a grill with an open flame.
• Not Ideal for Smoking: Griddles do not allow smoking or smoking chips, a popular technique for adding flavor to meats and other dishes. This limits the taste options available when using a griddle.

Pros And Cons Of A Grill

Pro:

• Doesn’t require electricity – This means you can still grill even if there is a power outage or in a remote location.
• Cheap – Natural gas is a relatively cheap fuel source compared to other options on the market.
• Eco-friendly – Natural gas burns cleaner than other fuel types like charcoal or wood pellets, producing fewer emissions.
• Doesn’t require tanks or refills – Unlike propane or charcoal grills, you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel in the middle of your cookout.
• Won’t run out of gas – As long as your gas line is properly installed and functioning, you don’t have to worry about running out of gas during your cooking session.

Con:

• Requires professionals to install a new gas line – If you don’t already have a gas line installed in your home, adding one can be expensive and requires professional installation.
• You may need a permit to install a new gas line – Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain a permit before installing a new gas line.
• Not portable – Unlike propane or charcoal grills, a gas grill is not easily transportable and must be hooked to a gas line to function.
• Not as hot as propane – While gas grills are still hot enough to cook a wide variety of foods, they typically run at a lower temperature than propane grills, which means they may take longer to cook certain items.

What Unique Dishes Can You Cook On A Blackstone Griddle Versus A Gas Grill?

While both offer unique benefits, I’ve found that the Blackstone griddle gives me more versatility when cooking up some truly unique dishes.

Firstly, the Blackstone griddle is the perfect appliance if you love breakfast foods. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, and even French toast can easily be cooked on the flat surface of a griddle. The even heat distribution ensures that your food cooks evenly, and the lack of grates means you can cook delicate foods without worrying about them falling through.

Another dish that I have found to be easier to cook on a Blackstone griddle is stir-fry. The even heat distribution and large surface area make it easy to cook multiple ingredients at once without worrying about overcooking or undercooking any of them. Plus, the lack of grates means you can use a wok without worrying about it tipping over.

One of my favorite things to cook on a Blackstone griddle is seafood. The flat surface ensures that the fish or shellfish does not stick or fall apart while cooking. You can also cook multiple types of seafood at once without worrying about cross-contamination. The griddle’s high heat ensures that your seafood cooks quickly and evenly.

While a gas grill is great for cooking burgers and steaks, some meats are better suited for the Blackstone griddle. For example, if you want to cook a whole chicken, the griddle’s flat surface makes it easy to cook evenly. You can also cook meats that are traditionally difficult to grill, such as hot dogs and sausages, without worrying about falling apart.

In conclusion, while a gas grill is excellent for cooking certain dishes, the Blackstone griddle is the perfect appliance for anyone who loves cooking breakfast foods, stir-fry, seafood, and meats that are traditionally difficult to grill. Its even heat distribution and lack of grates make it a versatile and convenient appliance that any home cook should consider adding to their kitchen.

What Types Of Foods Are Best Cooked On A Blackstone Griddle?

Today I will share with you the types of foods that are best cooked on a Blackstone griddle.

1. Burgers – Nothing like a juicy burger hot off the griddle. The Blackstone’s high heat helps create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
2. Breakfast foods – Pancakes, eggs, and bacon cook perfectly on a Blackstone griddle. The flat surface allows you to cook them all at once, so you can have a hot, delicious breakfast in no time.
3. Stir-fry – The high heat of the Blackstone griddle makes it perfect for stir-frying veggies and meats. The even heat distribution means everything cooks quickly and evenly, and you can get a nice sear on your meat without overcooking it.
4. Steak – If you’re a steak lover, you’ll want to try cooking it on a Blackstone griddle. The high heat helps to create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
5. Grilled sandwiches – Grilled cheese, paninis, and other grilled sandwiches are a breeze on a Blackstone griddle. The flat surface allows you to cook both sides at once, so you can get that perfect melty cheese and crispy bread.

What Types Of Foods Are Best Cooked On A Gas Grill?

First up, let’s talk about meats. Gas grills are great for cooking meat, from burgers to chicken to steak. The key is to ensure your grill is hot enough – preheat it for at least 10-15 minutes before adding your meat. This will help ensure you get a good sear and that your meat cooks evenly throughout.

Next, let’s talk about veggies. Gas grills are perfect for grilling vegetables, allowing you to cook them quickly over high heat. My favorites include bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus. Just be sure to brush your veggies with a little bit of oil before grilling to prevent sticking.

Seafood is another great option for gas grilling. Shrimp, scallops, and fish cook beautifully on a gas grill. Just be sure to use a fish basket or grill pan to prevent the seafood from falling apart or sticking to the grates.

Finally, let’s not forget about fruit! Yes, you can grill fruit on a gas grill – and it’s delicious. Pineapples, peaches, and even watermelon can all be grilled to perfection. Just slice them up and cook them over medium-high heat for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

What Is The Main Difference In The Way You Use Charcoal And Propane In Outdoor Cooking?

The main difference between using charcoal and propane in outdoor cooking is the fuel type and how it affects the cooking process. Charcoal grills require preheating with bunched-up newspaper or a starter chimney to light the briquettes, which can take up to 30 minutes. On the other hand, propane grills light up at the touch of a button and heat up quickly.

Charcoal grills produce a smoky flavor, which gives the food a distinct taste, while propane grills burn cleaner and produce fewer carbon emissions. Charcoal grills require more attention and practice to control the temperature and cook the food evenly, while propane grills offer more temperature control and are better suited for delicate foods.

Can Blackstone Grills Use Natural Gas

Blackstone grills can be converted to natural gas, but additional parts and considerations are necessary. The conversion kit has a gas hose and orifices, but users must purchase temperature and gas-resistant thread sealant separately.

It is important to note that the included gas hose has a female flare fitting on one end, which may not be compatible with the male flare fitting on the gas valve of the user’s CNG system. Additionally, while natural gas is considered more reliable and cleaner to burn than propane, concerns surrounding its use exist.

Steak on Blackstone vs Gas Grill

There are notable differences in cooking steak on a Blackstone versus a gas grill. While a gas grill offers the classic smoky, charred flavor that is hard to replicate, a Blackstone griddle provides a juicy, fatty piece of meat that is full of flavor. Some chefs prefer the griddle for its even cooking surface, which results in uniformly cooked food every time. However, those who prioritize healthier food with less fat may prefer the gas grill as the excess fats and oils drip out of the food and through the gaps between the bars of the grill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Blackstone griddles and gas grills have advantages and disadvantages. A Blackstone griddle might be the best choice if you’re looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-clean option for cooking things like burgers, pancakes, and stir-fry. However, a gas grill might be a better option if you want more versatility in terms of what you can cook and that classic grill flavor. Consider your personal preferences and needs when deciding between Blackstone vs gas grill.

References:

• https://blackstoneproducts.com/blogs/why-griddle/how-to-choose-the-right-flat-top-grill-for-you