Review of Blackstone 1666 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle for Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts

Description

Compact and Portable Design

Testing the Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle was a game-changer for me as someone who loves a good outdoor cookout. Its compact design really stood out. It’s small enough to carry around without breaking a sweat, yet sturdy enough to feel reliable. At just over 25 pounds, I could easily bring it along for tailgating or camping trips without needing an extra set of hands. The adjustable-height rubber feet came in handy when setting up on uneven surfaces, whether it was a grassy backyard or a slightly tilted picnic table. It felt like this griddle was designed with portability as a top priority, and that’s something I genuinely appreciated.

Cooking Versatility for All Meals

This griddle completely redefined my expectations of what a portable unit could achieve. With its 339 square inches of cooking space, I managed to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner effortlessly. From eggs and bacon to pancakes and burgers, the rolled carbon steel cooking surface handled it all like a champ. Even delicate foods like fish cooked evenly without sticking, thanks to its smooth surface. The two H-shaped burners offered consistent heat distribution, and I could adjust them independently to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. It was satisfying to make my breakfast on one side while grilling vegetables on the other without worrying about burning anything.

Powerful Heat Output

This griddle didn’t hold back when it came to heat. With 24,000 BTUs at my disposal, the cooking surface heated up quickly, saving me time. Whether I was searing steaks or whipping up fajitas, the heat remained consistent and effective throughout my testing. I also liked the option to use either a 1 lb propane bottle for quick setups or connect it to a 20 lb propane tank for extended use. It felt like the perfect balance between convenience and performance.

Innovative Grease Management System

Dealing with grease can be a nightmare during outdoor cooking, but this griddle’s patented Rear Grease Management System simplified the process. Excess grease naturally flowed into the collection cup at the back of the griddle, making cleanup far less messy. I didn’t have to constantly wipe down the surface, which gave me more time to enjoy the food and less time stressing over maintenance. It’s one of those small yet impactful features that make a big difference during use.

Durable Build Quality

The rolled carbon steel cooking surface and stainless steel faceplate assure durability, resisting rust and wear. Despite frequent use, it showed no signs of deterioration. Its heavy-duty construction gave me confidence that this griddle could handle years of outdoor cooking adventures. That said, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t come with a nonstick coating, so proper seasoning is essential to maintain its performance.

Key Benefits

• Portable and lightweight design makes it easy to transport.
• Large cooking space for a compact griddle, accommodating up to 14 burgers or 60 hot dogs.
• Two independently controlled burners for cooking at different temperatures.
• Durable materials ensure longevity and resilience against outdoor elements.
• Rear Grease Management System simplifies cleanup.

Areas of Concern

• The absence of a nonstick coating means you’ll need to season the surface regularly.
• It’s not dishwasher-safe, which might inconvenience some users who prefer hassle-free cleaning.
• The propane adapter hose for larger tanks is not included, requiring an additional purchase.

Product Rivals

In the world of portable griddles, this unit faces tough competition from brands like Camp Chef and Pit Boss. Compared to Camp Chef’s portable griddles, the Blackstone 1666 wins with its grease management system, making cleanup significantly easier. However, Camp Chef models often include additional accessories, like a griddle cover or carry bag, which this product lacks. Pit Boss griddles, on the other hand, offer slightly larger cooking surfaces but are bulkier and harder to transport. The Blackstone’s lightweight build and sturdy adjustable feet give it an edge for users prioritizing portability and stability.

Bang for the Buck

For its size and features, this griddle offers excellent value. The powerful burners, versatile cooking options, and thoughtful design justify the investment, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of larger griddles, its compact form factor and reliability make it a worthy contender. If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor cooking without the hassle of lugging around heavy equipment, this griddle is a solid choice.

Additional information