Introduction
Outdoor cooking offers a unique blend of fun, flavor, and freshness, especially when using a versatile Blackstone griddle. Known for its ability to prepare a variety of dishes, the Blackstone griddle is perfect for creating mouthwatering meals. In this article, we’ll explore the best Blackstone recipes, from hearty main courses to sweet desserts, and share expert tips to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best Blackstone recipes, covering everything from hearty breakfasts to delectable desserts. You’ll learn not only the recipes but also tips for mastering the art of griddle cooking. Let’s get started and transform your outdoor cooking experience with these amazing Blackstone creations.
Outdoor cooking offers a unique blend of fun, flavor, and freshness, especially when using a versatile Blackstone griddle. Known for its ability to prepare a variety of dishes, the Blackstone griddle is perfect for creating mouthwatering meals. In this article, we’ll explore the best Blackstone recipes, from hearty main courses to sweet desserts, and share expert tips to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
Main Course Recipes
The Blackstone griddle shines when it comes to preparing hearty, crowd-pleasing main courses. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, sizzling fajitas, or a steakhouse-style ribeye, these recipes are sure to impress.
Classic Blackstone Smash Burgers
Smash burgers are a favorite for their crispy edges and juicy center. Here’s how you can make the perfect smash burger on your Blackstone griddle.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of cheese (American or cheddar works best)
- Butter for toasting buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the Beef: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and roll them into loose balls.
- Smash the Burgers: Place each ball on the hot griddle and use a heavy spatula to press them down firmly into thin patties.
- Season and Cook: Season the patties with salt and pepper, then let them cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy. Flip, add cheese on top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Toast the Buns: Spread butter on the burger buns and toast them on the griddle until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers: Layer the patties on the buns, adding your choice of toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!
Sizzling Blackstone Chicken Fajitas
Fajitas are a Tex-Mex classic, and the Blackstone griddle makes it easy to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp fajita seasoning
- Tortillas for serving
- Optional: sour cream, salsa, guacamole
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat the griddle to medium-high and coat with olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Toss the sliced chicken with fajita seasoning and cook on the griddle until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add bell peppers and onions to the griddle, cooking until they are soft and slightly charred.
- Combine and Serve: Mix the chicken and vegetables together on the griddle for a minute to combine flavors. Serve with warm tortillas and toppings of your choice.
Blackstone Steakhouse-Style Ribeye
Achieve the perfect crust and juicy interior with this ribeye recipe, showcasing the Blackstone griddle’s ability to handle high heat.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks (1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Steaks: Generously season the ribeyes with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Preheat the Griddle: Set the griddle to high heat and allow it to get very hot.
- Sear the Steaks: Place the steaks on the griddle and sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Add Flavor: In the last minute of cooking, add butter, garlic, and herbs to the griddle and baste the steaks.
- Rest and Serve: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving for maximum juiciness.
Side Dishes
No meal is complete without flavorful sides to complement the main dishes. These Blackstone side dish recipes are simple yet packed with flavor, making them the perfect addition to any meal.
Blackstone Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob gets a smoky, caramelized flavor when cooked on the Blackstone griddle.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan, chili powder, or lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat the griddle to medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Cook the Corn: Place the corn directly on the griddle, rotating every 3-4 minutes, for a total of 12-15 minutes until slightly charred.
- Season: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add Parmesan, chili powder, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
- Serve Hot: Serve as a side with your favorite Blackstone main dishes.
Garlic Herb Potatoes
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these garlic herb potatoes are a must-try side.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat the griddle to medium-high and coat with olive oil.
- Cook the Potatoes: Spread the potatoes on the griddle in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy.
- Season and Serve: Sprinkle with garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions
This savory side dish is versatile and pairs well with steaks, burgers, or grilled veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Set the Blackstone griddle to medium heat and add the butter.
- Cook the Mushrooms and Onions: Add the mushrooms and onions to the griddle, stirring occasionally. Cook for 8-10 minutes until caramelized.
- Add Flavor: Stir in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper, and serve alongside your favorite main courses.
Tips for Blackstone Cooking
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle is a unique experience, offering versatility and efficiency. However, getting the best results requires a few essential tips to master your griddle. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these pointers will elevate your cooking game.
Prepping the Griddle for Cooking
Before you start cooking, proper preparation of your Blackstone griddle is key.
Seasoning the Griddle
- Why Seasoning Matters: Seasoning creates a non-stick surface and protects the griddle from rust.
- How to Season: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil (flaxseed or vegetable oil is ideal) to the griddle surface. Heat until the oil smokes, then let it cool. Repeat 2-3 times before the first use.
Preheating the Griddle
- Always preheat your griddle to ensure even cooking. This prevents sticking and helps achieve the perfect sear on meats and vegetables.
Maintaining Consistent Heat
Blackstone griddles have multiple burners, allowing for precise heat control. Use this feature to your advantage:
- Zoning: Create temperature zones on your griddle. Use high heat for searing, medium heat for cooking, and low heat to keep food warm.
- Monitoring: Invest in a griddle thermometer to monitor surface temperatures accurately.
Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle
Proper cleaning extends the life of your griddle and ensures food safety.
After Each Use
- Scrape the Surface: Use a griddle scraper to remove excess food and grease.
- Wipe Clean: Wipe the griddle with a paper towel or cloth.
- Apply a Light Coat of Oil: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of oil to protect the surface.
Deep Cleaning
- When Needed: Perform a deep clean every few months or when food buildup occurs.
- Use Water or Vinegar: Pour water or vinegar onto the surface while it’s warm, then scrub with a griddle brush.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these pitfalls will help you maximize your griddle’s potential:
- Overcrowding the Surface: Too much food at once can reduce heat efficiency. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping Preheating: Always preheat the griddle to prevent food from sticking.
- Neglecting Maintenance: Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to maintain the griddle’s performance.
Desserts on Blackstone
The Blackstone griddle isn’t just for savory dishes; it’s also a fantastic tool for creating mouthwatering desserts. These recipes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.
Blackstone Griddled Cinnamon Rolls
Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls cooked on a griddle are a crowd-pleaser, ideal for brunch or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- Butter for greasing
- Optional: powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat the Blackstone griddle to low-medium heat and grease the surface with butter.
- Cook the Cinnamon Rolls: Place the cinnamon rolls on the griddle and cover them with a metal dome or lid to mimic an oven effect. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Add Icing: Once cooked, drizzle the provided icing over the rolls.
- Serve Hot: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra sweetness and serve warm.
Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
This tropical dessert combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a caramelized brown sugar glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Set the griddle to medium heat.
- Prepare the Glaze: Mix brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Cook the Pineapple: Brush the pineapple rings with the glaze and place them on the griddle. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly charred.
- Serve: Serve as is, or pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
S’mores on the Griddle
This campfire classic can be recreated on the Blackstone griddle for a fun and easy treat.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers
- Chocolate bars
- Large marshmallows
- Butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Set the griddle to low heat and lightly grease it with butter.
- Assemble the S’mores: Place a graham cracker on the griddle, topped with chocolate and a marshmallow. Cover with a metal dome to melt the chocolate and soften the marshmallow, about 2-3 minutes.
- Top and Serve: Add another graham cracker on top, press gently, and serve warm.
Finish your meal with indulgent Blackstone recipes for desserts. These sweet treats, like caramelized pineapple and griddled cinnamon rolls, prove that your Blackstone griddle isn’t just for savory dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Heading 3: What are the best oils to use on a Blackstone griddle?
For seasoning and cooking on a Blackstone griddle, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, avocado oil, or flaxseed oil. These oils withstand high heat without breaking down, ensuring your griddle remains seasoned and food cooks evenly.
How do I prevent food from sticking to my griddle?
Sticking can be avoided by properly seasoning your griddle and preheating it before cooking. Always ensure the surface is slightly oiled, and avoid overcrowding, which can reduce heat efficiency.
What tools do I need for Blackstone griddle cooking?
Essential tools include:
- A heavy-duty spatula for flipping and scraping.
- A griddle scraper for cleaning.
- Tongs for turning food.
- A squeeze bottle for oils and water (for steaming or cleaning).
- A meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperatures.
How often should I clean my Blackstone griddle?
Clean your griddle after each use by scraping off food residue and wiping it down with a paper towel. Apply a thin layer of oil to protect the surface. Perform a deep clean every few months or as needed when there’s excessive buildup.
Can I use the Blackstone griddle indoors?
Blackstone griddles are designed for outdoor use due to their propane-powered burners and open flame. Indoor use may pose safety hazards, such as carbon monoxide buildup. Always cook in a well-ventilated area outdoors.
What should I do if my griddle rusts?
Rust can be removed by scrubbing the surface with a grill stone or steel wool, then wiping it clean. Re-season the griddle by heating it and applying multiple thin layers of oil until the surface is restored.
Conclusion
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle is an enjoyable and versatile way to prepare a variety of meals for any occasion. From hearty breakfasts and sizzling seafood to satisfying vegetarian dishes and sweet desserts, the possibilities are endless. With the right tools, a few helpful tips, and the recipes shared in this guide, you can become a master of the Blackstone griddle and delight your family and friends with restaurant-quality meals at home.
The key to success lies in preparation—ensuring your griddle is properly seasoned, preheated, and cleaned regularly. Experiment with flavors, try new recipes, and don’t be afraid to get creative. The Blackstone griddle isn’t just a cooking tool; it’s a gateway to culinary adventures and cherished memories shared around delicious meals.
With these delicious Blackstone recipes and tips, your griddle can become the centerpiece of unforgettable meals. Experiment with these ideas and enjoy the art of outdoor cooking!
So fire up your Blackstone griddle, try out these recipes, and enjoy the satisfaction of outdoor cooking like never before. Bon appétit!