Masterbuilt Propane Smoker MB20051316 review A perfect choice for BBQ enthusiasts

Description

Unlocking Flavor with the Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker

Cooking outdoors has always been a favorite pastime for me, and this vertical propane smoker has taken my culinary adventures to the next level. The Masterbuilt MB20051316 brings a professional-grade smoking experience to your backyard, packed with features that make the process both easy and enjoyable. I’ve used it for everything from ribs to salmon, and it’s safe to say this smoker has earned its spot on my patio.

Design and Build Quality That Stands Out

The black alloy steel exterior not only looks sleek but feels sturdy and well-constructed. This smoker is no lightweight at 92 pounds, but that heft gives it a solid, durable feel. With dimensions of 22.8″D x 28.7″W x 53″H, it’s spacious without being unwieldy. The fully-insulated body and lockable door latch do a fantastic job of retaining heat and smoke, which is crucial for consistent results. I especially appreciated the large viewing window, which lets me keep an eye on the food without constantly opening the door and losing heat.

Cooking Space and Versatility

The 960 square inches of cooking space is one of the smoker’s biggest selling points. With four chrome-coated racks, I’ve been able to smoke everything from a couple of chickens to a full Thanksgiving turkey. One weekend, I even managed to fit 8 racks of ribs—and let me tell you, the results were phenomenal. The vertical design maximizes space, making it ideal for cooking for a crowd or prepping food for the week.

Key Benefits

• ThermoTemp technology ensures consistent, even heat throughout the smoking process.
• The adjustable air damper allows for precise smoke control, which is a game-changer for flavor.
• A woodchip tray makes it easy to add that smoky goodness without interrupting the cooking process.
• The removable water bowl adds moisture and catches drippings, simplifying cleanup.

Ease of Use for Beginners and Pros Alike

Using this smoker is a breeze, even for those new to smoking. The ignition button is incredibly convenient—you press it, and you’re good to go. The adjustable temperature dial lets you set your desired heat level up to 375°F, which covers a wide range of smoking needs. I found the controls intuitive and easy to navigate, and the smoker maintains its temperature beautifully throughout the process.

Areas for Improvement

While the smoker performs admirably, there are a few shortcomings worth mentioning:

• The chrome-coated racks are great for cooking but require extra care during cleaning to avoid wear and tear.
• At 92 pounds, the smoker is not the easiest to move around. Adding wheels would have been a thoughtful touch.
• The viewing window, while helpful, can get fogged up during long cooking sessions, making it harder to monitor food.

Competing Products

When comparing this smoker to its peer products, a few names come to mind. The Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker offers a similar vertical design but relies on charcoal instead of propane, which can be less convenient. On the other hand, the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a strong contender, offering excellent heat retention but with significantly less cooking space than the Masterbuilt model. Where this smoker shines is in its ThermoTemp technology and ease of use, features that make it feel more professional and user-friendly than many alternatives.

Affordable Quality

For what this smoker brings to the table, it’s a solid example of affordable quality. Its combination of features—like the adjustable temperature control, ample cooking space, and easy ignition—makes it well worth the investment. While there are less expensive options available, they often lack the precision and versatility that this smoker delivers. If you’re serious about smoking and want a tool that can handle everything from casual weekend meals to large family gatherings, this is an excellent choice.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

Firing up the vertical propane smoker has turned into an event in itself. The flavors it produces are rich and smoky, with meats that are tender and cooked to perfection. Despite a few minor flaws, the overall performance and ease of use make it a standout in its category. If you’re considering taking your outdoor cooking game to the next level, this smoker is definitely worth a look.

Additional information