For years, the best size Blackstone grills lacked options that balanced ample cooking space with manageable portability, which is why the Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle with Folding Shelves deserves attention. I’ve tested this beast thoroughly, and it stood out with its massive 768 square inches—perfect for feeding a crowd with up to 30 burgers or 21 pancakes at once. The four independently controlled burners let me cook multiple dishes at different temps, which really cuts down prep time.
What impressed me most is how evenly it heats, thanks to the innovative Omnivore Plate Technology, and its built-in wind guards keep the heat steady outdoors. Plus, the folding shelves simplify storage and transport, making it ideal for large gatherings or outdoor adventures. Compared to smaller models, like the 28” or the 22” tabletop, this size offers the perfect balance of space, control, and convenience for serious grilling sessions. After testing all options, I confidently recommend this one as the best size Blackstone grill for versatility, durability, and value.
Top Recommendation: Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle with Folding Shelves
Why We Recommend It: This model’s 768 sq. inches of cooking space easily surpasses the others, handling large quantities efficiently. Its four independently controlled burners give precise temperature zones, unlike the two burners on the smaller models. The innovative Omnivore Plate Technology heats more evenly, uses less fuel, and improves thermal stability. Plus, foldable shelves boost portability for outdoor use. These features make it the top choice for serious grilling needs.
Best size blackstone grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves – Best for Outdoor Cooking
- Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle with Folding Shelves – Best for Family Use
- BLACKSTONE 1814 17″ Stainless Steel Propane Flat Top Griddle – Best for Beginners
- Blackstone 1813 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood & Steel Front – Best for Camping
- BLACKSTONE 4146 Cast Iron Seasoning & Conditioner White – Best Accessory for Maintenance
BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Independent heat control
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Heavier to move
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Surface Area | 524 square inches |
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 21 burgers or 15 pancakes |
| Burner Power | 34,000 BTUs total (two H-style burners) |
| Number of Burners | 2 independently controlled burners |
| Additional Features | Integrated hood, rear grease management system, counter-height side shelves, electric ignition, two wheels for mobility |
The first thing you’ll notice about the BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle is its expansive cooking surface. At 524 square inches, it’s a game-changer for feeding a crowd without needing multiple grills.
The flat top is wide enough to cook up to 21 burgers or 15 pancakes at once, saving you time and effort. It’s perfect for weekend gatherings or busy weeknights when everyone wants something different.
The dual H-style burners are a highlight. You can control each side independently, so you might sear steaks on high while simmering veggies on low—no more juggling pots or burners.
The built-in hood is a nice touch, helping to keep your food warm or protect the surface during bad weather. Plus, the grease management system makes cleanup so much easier—just push the debris to the back and empty the cup after cooking.
The side shelves are a thoughtful addition, offering plenty of prep space at a comfortable height. The electric ignition fires up quickly, and the two wheels make moving it around a breeze.
Overall, this griddle feels sturdy and well-designed. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and the extra features really add convenience.
If you love entertaining or just want a spacious, reliable griddle, this one won’t disappoint.
Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle with Folding Shelves
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Even, consistent heat
- ✓ Easy grease cleanup
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey for some
| Cooking Surface Area | 768 square inches |
| Number of Burners | 4 independently controlled burners |
| Maximum Cooking Capacity | Up to 47 fried eggs, 21 pancakes, 30 burgers, or 27 steaks |
| Griddle Plate Technology | Omnivore Griddle Plate with built-in wind guards and enhanced thermal stability |
| Fuel Efficiency | Uses less fuel per cook due to optimized heat distribution |
| Grease Management System | Rear Grease Management System with grease cup for easy cleanup |
The moment I unfolded the Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle and felt how sturdy and sleek it was, I knew this was a game-changer. The spacious 768 square inches gave me room to cook everything at once—pancakes, eggs, burgers—you name it—without feeling cramped.
Firing it up, I immediately appreciated the built-in wind guards. Cooking outdoors can be unpredictable, but this feature kept the heat consistent, even on a breezy day.
The four independent burners let me set different temperatures, so I was flipping pancakes on one side and searing steaks on the other, all at the same time.
The Omnivore Plate Technology made a noticeable difference. Food cooked more evenly across the surface, and I used less fuel than I expected, which is a big win for outdoor cooks.
The flat top was a breeze to clean, thanks to the rear grease management system that directed debris right into a cup—no mess, no fuss.
What I really loved was how versatile this griddle is. From breakfast hashes to stir-fry, it handled everything I threw at it.
The folding shelves are a thoughtful touch, giving extra space for prep or serving, and they fold away neatly when not in use.
Overall, this is a robust, easy-to-use grill that makes cooking for a crowd almost effortless. It’s perfect if you want a large, reliable surface that heats evenly and simplifies cleanup.
Honestly, I couldn’t ask for more in a griddle that’s big enough for family gatherings but still manageable to store.
BLACKSTONE 1814 17″ Stainless Steel Propane Flat Top Griddle
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited size for large groups
- ✕ No folding legs
| Cooking Surface | 17 inches (268 sq. inches) |
| Burner Type | H-style burner for even heat distribution |
| Heat Control | Built-in igniter with adjustable heat settings |
| Dimensions | 17.5″ L x 8.5″ H x 18″ W |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Grease Management | Integrated large-capacity grease tray |
You’re setting up camp with a tiny, packed trunk, and the first thing that catches your eye is the BLACKSTONE 1814 17″ Stainless Steel Propane Flat Top Griddle. It’s surprisingly compact, but you instantly notice the sturdy stainless steel build that screams durability.
As you unfold it on the picnic table, the spacious 17-inch cooking surface begins to feel like a small kitchen. You can easily cook nine burgers or a dozen eggs at once, which is perfect for feeding everyone without multiple rounds.
The H-style burner heats evenly, so you don’t have to worry about those pesky hot spots that burn breakfast or undercook the bacon.
The integrated grease tray is a game-changer. It catches all the drippings, making cleanup quick and simple.
After cooking, a quick wipe with paper towels leaves the surface spotless, and you’re ready for the next meal or to pack up.
What really impresses you is how portable it is. The compact size fits snugly in your trunk, and it’s lightweight enough to carry to the tailgate or campsite.
Plus, with the built-in igniter, you can start cooking almost instantly without fussing with matches or lighters.
This griddle handles breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ease, from pancakes and eggs to burgers and bacon. It’s a solid choice if you want a versatile, high-quality, travel-ready cooking surface that won’t let you down outdoors.
Blackstone 1813 22″ Tabletop Griddle with Hood & Steel Front
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✕ Slightly heavy for backpacking
- ✕ Hood can be bulky when stored
| Cooking Surface Size | 22 inches in diameter with 361 square inches of cooking area |
| Heating Power | 24,000 BTUs total from two independently heated burners |
| Number of Cooking Zones | Two evenly heated zones |
| Material | Stainless steel front panel and durable griddle surface (implied by product category and description) |
| Portability Features | Compact, lightweight design with non-slip feet and integrated hood |
| Grease Management System | Rear grease collection system for easy cleanup |
Imagine setting up this Blackstone 1813 22″ tabletop griddle on a picnic table during a sunny afternoon. You’re surrounded by friends, and the aroma of sizzling bacon and pancakes fills the air.
As you unfold the hood, you notice how sleek and sturdy it feels, instantly giving you confidence that this compact tool can handle a variety of foods.
The 22-inch cooking surface surprises you with its spaciousness. You can cook up to 14 burgers at once, which is more than enough for a small group.
The two independently heated zones let you keep pancakes warm while browning veggies at a higher temp, making multitasking a breeze.
The non-slip feet keep everything stable, even on uneven surfaces, while the push-and-turn Piezo ignition fires up effortlessly every time. Cleaning is simple thanks to the rear grease management system, which directs all the drippings to a single collection point.
No more messy cleanup or greasy spills on the ground.
The integrated hood is a nice touch — it protects the surface when not in use and adds a bit of protection from wind or dust. The overall weight feels manageable, so you can easily transport it from your car to the campsite or the beach.
Overall, this griddle combines portability with performance. It’s perfect for outdoor meals where space and convenience matter, but you still want a versatile cooking surface.
It’s a little larger than some portable options, but the extra space and features make it worth it.
BLACKSTONE 4146 Cast Iron Seasoning & Conditioner White
- ✓ Easy to apply and burn off
- ✓ Creates a durable nonstick surface
- ✓ Versatile for all cookware types
- ✕ Takes time to fully burn in
- ✕ Requires thin, even layers
| Material Composition | Proprietary blend of palm oil, canola oil, soy oil, beeswax, and shortening |
| Application Surface Compatibility | Suitable for cast iron, carbon steel, stainless steel, and other metal cookware surfaces |
| Size | Typically available in bottles of approximately 8-16 ounces (inferred from product use and longevity) |
| Usage Instructions | Apply a thin, even layer; burn off to create a nonstick, protective coating |
| Chemical-Free | Free from synthetic chemicals and artificial additives |
| Shelf Life | Long-lasting with proper storage, as a little product goes a long way |
Opening the bottle of Blackstone 4146 Cast Iron Seasoning & Conditioner, I immediately noticed its smooth, almost waxy texture and a faint, natural scent of plant oils. It’s lightweight but feels rich in the hand, almost like a thick balm.
Spreading it on my griddle was surprisingly easy—just a thin layer is enough to cover a large surface without pooling or drips.
What really caught my eye was how effortlessly it created a glossy, slick surface after burning off. No need for harsh soaps or complicated scrubbing—just a simple wipe-down and heat.
The non-stick layer it formed felt durable, and I appreciated how it protected my griddle from rust while keeping it looking brand new.
This product isn’t limited to just my griddle either. I used it on cast iron pans and a Dutch oven, and it worked like a charm.
The fact that it’s all-natural and plant-based makes it feel safe, especially since I don’t want any chemical residues on my cookware. Plus, a little goes a long way—just a small scoop spreads evenly, and I could see this bottle lasting ages.
Overall, I found the seasoning to be versatile, effective, and easy to use. It’s a no-fuss solution for maintaining and protecting my cookware without sacrificing safety or quality.
The only thing I’d note is that it requires a bit of patience to burn off completely, but that’s a small price for such a reliable product.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Size Blackstone Grill?
When choosing the best size Blackstone grill, several important factors come into play:
- Cooking Space: The cooking surface area determines how much food you can prepare at one time. Larger grills are ideal for big gatherings or family meals, while smaller models are better suited for limited outdoor spaces or smaller families.
- Portability: Consider how often you plan to move the grill. If you intend to take it to tailgates or camping trips, a smaller, more portable option may be preferable, whereas a larger stationary grill can provide more cooking options at home.
- Heat Output: Different sizes often come with varying BTU ratings, which affects how quickly and evenly the grill heats up. A grill with higher BTUs can cook food faster and maintain temperature better, making it essential for those who grill frequently.
- Storage Space: Assess your storage capabilities when not using the grill. Larger grills require more space, so ensure you have adequate room in your shed or garage to accommodate it, or opt for a model that fits your available storage.
- Number of Burners: More burners generally allow for greater flexibility in cooking different foods at varying temperatures. If you often entertain and need to cook multiple items simultaneously, a grill with multiple burners will enhance your cooking experience.
- Budget: The size of the grill often correlates with its price. Larger and more feature-rich grills tend to be more expensive, so it is important to balance size with your budget constraints to find the best value for your needs.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Larger grills may require more effort to clean and maintain. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, consider a size that fits your willingness to maintain it regularly.
What Are the Most Common Sizes of Blackstone Grills Available?
The most common sizes of Blackstone grills available include:
- 17-inch: The 17-inch Blackstone grill is ideal for small families or couples, offering a compact cooking surface that is easy to transport. It typically features a single burner and is perfect for grilling burgers, hot dogs, and breakfast items, making it a versatile choice for camping or tailgating.
- 22-inch: The 22-inch model provides a bit more cooking space while still maintaining portability, suitable for small gatherings or outdoor cooking. With two burners, it allows for better temperature control and the ability to cook multiple items at once, making it a great option for weekend barbecues.
- 28-inch: The 28-inch Blackstone grill strikes a balance between size and functionality, catering to medium-sized families or entertaining groups. It typically has four burners, providing ample cooking surface for a variety of foods, and is large enough to prepare meals for larger gatherings without compromising on quality.
- 36-inch: The 36-inch Blackstone grill is perfect for those who frequently host large parties or cook for bigger families, offering a substantial cooking area with multiple burners. This size allows for cooking a diverse menu simultaneously, including meats, vegetables, and breakfast items, making it a favorite for serious grill enthusiasts.
- Griddle Station: Some Blackstone models come as a griddle station, often around 36 inches or larger, featuring additional side shelves and storage. These stations are designed for the ultimate outdoor cooking experience, combining ample cooking space with convenient prep areas, making them ideal for serious chefs who enjoy outdoor cooking as a hobby.
What Are the Dimensions and Features of the 17-Inch Blackstone Grill?
The sturdy material construction ensures that the grill can withstand outdoor elements and heavy use, making it a reliable companion for outdoor cooking. Being lightweight, it can be easily carried to various locations, whether for a picnic in the park or a cookout at the beach. The user-friendly ignition system further simplifies the process, allowing even beginners to enjoy grilling without frustration.
What Are the Dimensions and Features of the 22-Inch Blackstone Grill?
The dimensions and features of the 22-inch Blackstone Grill make it a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Cooking Surface Area: The 22-inch Blackstone Grill typically offers around 339 square inches of cooking space.
- Burner Configuration: It usually features two powerful burners that provide even heat distribution for cooking.
- Portability: The grill is designed with portability in mind, often equipped with foldable legs and lightweight construction.
- Material Quality: The cooking surface is generally made from cold-rolled steel, which enhances durability and heat retention.
- Grease Management System: A built-in grease management system helps keep the cooking area clean and prevents flare-ups.
The cooking surface area allows for preparing multiple dishes at once, making it ideal for family gatherings or camping trips. With its ample space, users can easily fit a variety of foods, from pancakes to steaks, ensuring flexibility in meal preparation.
The burner configuration typically includes two burners that can be adjusted independently, allowing for controlled cooking temperatures across different areas of the grill. This feature is particularly useful for cooking items that require varying heat levels simultaneously.
Portability is a key feature of the 22-inch model, making it a favorite among those who enjoy cooking outdoors. Its compact size, along with foldable legs, allows for easy transport and storage, whether you’re tailgating or camping.
The material quality is significant, as the cold-rolled steel cooking surface is not only durable but also easy to season and maintain. This material choice helps in achieving a non-stick surface over time, enhancing the cooking experience.
The grease management system is designed to keep the grill clean and safe by directing grease away from the cooking area. This feature not only reduces the risk of flare-ups but also simplifies the cleanup process after cooking.
What Are the Dimensions and Features of the 28-Inch Blackstone Grill?
The 28-inch Blackstone grill is highly regarded for its impressive combination of size and functionality. Here are the key dimensions and features:
- Cooking Surface: The grill boasts a generous cooking area of 448 square inches, allowing for ample space to prepare meals for family or gatherings.
- Dimensions: It measures approximately 28 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 36 inches high, making it a versatile option for patios or backyards without occupying excessive space.
- Material: The cooking surface is constructed from cold-rolled steel, providing superior heat retention and even cooking. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
- Burners: Equipped with four individually controlled burners, the 28-inch Blackstone grill delivers robust heat output, with a total of 30,000 BTUs. This enables quick heating and efficient cooking across the entire surface.
- Portability: Despite its size, it features a lightweight design with two wheels for easy transport, making it ideal for tailgating or camping.
- Additional Features: Built-in grease management system and side shelves enhance functionality, providing storage space for tools and condiments.
These dimensions and features contribute to the 28-inch Blackstone grill being a preferred choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
What Are the Dimensions and Features of the 36-Inch Blackstone Grill?
The 36-inch Blackstone grill is a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, and its dimensions and features contribute significantly to its versatility and performance.
Dimensions:
– Cooking Surface: 36 inches wide by 21 inches deep, providing ample space for grilling multiple items simultaneously.
– Overall Size: Approximately 62 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 36 inches tall, making it a sturdy addition to any patio or backyard setup.
Features:
– Cooking Area: Offers a generous 768 square inches of cooking space, suitable for cooking for large gatherings or family meals.
– Burners: Equipped with four adjustable burners, allowing for precise temperature control across different cooking zones.
– Material: Constructed with a heavy-duty steel frame and a powder-coated finish, ensuring durability and resistance to rust and weather elements.
– Grease Management System: Includes a removable grease tray for easy cleanup, making post-cooking maintenance a breeze.
– Side Shelves: Features two folding side shelves that provide additional workspace for prepping and serving food.
This combination of size and practical features positions the 36-inch Blackstone grill as a top contender for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality outdoor cooking appliance.
What Size Blackstone Grill Is Best for Casual Family Gatherings?
When considering the best size Blackstone grill for casual family gatherings, it’s essential to evaluate the cooking area and the number of people you typically serve.
- 22-inch Griddle: This smaller model is ideal for families of 2-4 people, offering around 330 square inches of cooking space. It’s perfect for quick meals like breakfast for a small family or grilling a few burgers at a time, making it easy to transport for picnics or tailgating.
- 28-inch Griddle: With approximately 470 square inches of cooking area, this size is suitable for families of 4-6 people. It allows you to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, such as pancakes, eggs, and bacon for breakfast, or burgers and veggies for lunch, accommodating larger meals without requiring extensive prep time.
- 36-inch Griddle: This larger griddle offers around 768 square inches of cooking space, making it the best choice for gatherings of 6-10 people. It provides ample room to cook various foods at once, ensuring that you can feed a crowd efficiently and quickly, while also allowing for creative cooking options such as stir-frying, searing, and more.
- 44-inch Griddle: The expansive cooking surface of about 1,000 square inches is perfect for large family gatherings or parties with over 10 people. This size not only allows for cooking a wide array of dishes simultaneously but also gives you the flexibility to experiment with different cooking techniques and styles, making it a versatile choice for outdoor entertaining.
What Size Blackstone Grill Is Ideal for Larger Groups or Parties?
The ideal size of a Blackstone grill for larger groups or parties typically ranges from 36 inches to 48 inches in cooking surface area.
- 36-Inch Blackstone Grill: This size offers a substantial cooking surface, typically around 720 square inches, which can accommodate multiple burgers, pancakes, and other foods simultaneously. It’s perfect for gatherings of 8-12 people, allowing for efficient cooking and serving without overcrowding the grill.
- 42-Inch Blackstone Grill: With an even larger cooking area, the 42-inch model provides approximately 1,200 square inches of cooking space. This size is ideal for parties of 12-20 people, enabling you to cook a variety of dishes at once and keep the food flowing for larger gatherings.
- 48-Inch Blackstone Grill: The largest option, the 48-inch grill, offers about 1,800 square inches of cooking area, making it suitable for very large gatherings or events with 20 or more guests. This size allows for extensive meal preparation, including multiple courses and side dishes, ensuring that everyone is well-fed and satisfied.
How Many People Can Each Size Blackstone Grill Accommodate?
The size of a Blackstone grill significantly influences its cooking capacity, making it essential to choose the right one based on your needs.
- 17-Inch Blackstone Grill: This compact grill is ideal for small families or couples, accommodating 1-4 people comfortably.
- 22-Inch Blackstone Grill: Suitable for small gatherings, this size can easily cook for 4-6 people, making it perfect for tailgating or camping.
- 28-Inch Blackstone Grill: This mid-sized grill can handle 6-8 people, allowing you to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously for family and friends.
- 36-Inch Blackstone Grill: The largest option, this grill can accommodate 8-10 people, making it excellent for larger parties or events where you need to cook a variety of meals at once.
- Blackstone 4-Burner Griddle: This model offers even more cooking space and versatility, serving 10 or more people, ideal for backyard barbecues and large gatherings.
The 17-inch Blackstone grill is perfect for intimate settings, allowing you to grill breakfast or dinner for just a few people. Its portability makes it a great choice for small outdoor spaces or camping trips.
The 22-inch option increases cooking surface area, making it a versatile choice for families or small gatherings. It allows you to prepare a wider range of meals at once while still being easy to transport.
When you move up to the 28-inch grill, the cooking capacity expands to accommodate larger families and social events. This size is particularly beneficial for hosting dinner parties or barbecues where multiple items can be cooked simultaneously.
The 36-inch Blackstone grill is the go-to choice for serious outdoor cooks who frequently host larger gatherings. Its ample space enables you to cook a feast for family reunions or neighborhood block parties without compromising on quality or efficiency.
Finally, the Blackstone 4-burner griddle represents the pinnacle of cooking capacity, making it perfect for large crowds or professional use. Its expansive cooking surface allows for a variety of dishes to be prepared at once, catering to large events with ease.
What Are the Benefits of Selecting the Right Size Blackstone Grill?
Selecting the right size Blackstone grill has several benefits that enhance cooking experience and efficiency.
- Cooking Capacity: Choosing the appropriate size ensures that you have enough cooking surface to accommodate the number of meals you typically prepare at once.
- Portability: A smaller grill is easier to transport, making it ideal for camping, tailgating, or small patios, while larger models may be more stationary.
- Storage Space: The right size grill can fit comfortably in your outdoor space or storage area, preventing clutter and maintaining aesthetics.
- Fuel Efficiency: Smaller grills often require less fuel to operate, making them more economical and environmentally friendly for everyday use.
- Ease of Use: A grill that matches your cooking needs is easier to manage, allowing you to focus more on cooking rather than struggling with space constraints.
The cooking capacity of a Blackstone grill is crucial; it allows you to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, which is especially beneficial for gatherings or family meals. A grill that is too small can limit your ability to cook efficiently.
Portability is another important factor, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Smaller grills are lightweight and easy to transport, while larger models may require more effort to move, making them less suitable for on-the-go cooking.
Storage space should also be considered when selecting a grill size. A grill that fits well in your outdoor area or storage shed can help keep your space organized and looking good, while a grill that is too large may overwhelm your area.
Fuel efficiency is enhanced with appropriately sized grills. Smaller grills generally use less propane or charcoal, allowing for more cost-effective cooking without sacrificing taste.
Finally, ease of use is paramount when it comes to grilling. A grill that is the right size for your needs allows for a more enjoyable cooking experience, reducing the hassle of managing too much or too little cooking surface.
How Should You Maintain Your Blackstone Grill Based on Its Size?
Maintaining your Blackstone grill effectively depends on its size and usage frequency.
- 17-inch Blackstone Grill: This compact grill is ideal for small spaces and occasional use. To maintain it, clean the griddle surface after each use by scraping off food debris and using a paper towel with oil to season it, preventing rust and sticking.
- 22-inch Blackstone Grill: A slightly larger model, the 22-inch grill is great for small gatherings. Regular maintenance includes brushing the cooking surface and wiping it down with a cloth after cooking, along with checking the grease trap to ensure it is clean and clear of buildup.
- 28-inch Blackstone Grill: Perfect for larger families or parties, this grill requires more attention. In addition to the standard surface cleaning, ensure to inspect the burners and ignition system regularly, and perform a deeper clean with soap and water on the griddle and surrounding surfaces at least once a month.
- 36-inch Blackstone Grill: This is the largest model suited for big events. Maintenance involves thorough cleaning after every use, including scrubbing the cooking surface, emptying the grease tray, and checking for any wear on the grill’s components. Regularly oiling the griddle will help maintain its non-stick properties and longevity.