Explore the Blackstone 1962 Air Fryer Combo Griddle Review for Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts

Description

Grilling Performance

I’ve been using the Blackstone 1962 Air Fryer Combo & Two Burners Stainless Steel Gas Hood for a few weeks now, and let me tell you, this thing has transformed my outdoor cooking game. The 524 square inches of cooking surface is a dream for anyone who loves hosting backyard cookouts. I’ve grilled everything from burgers and steaks to vegetables and seafood, and it handles it all effortlessly. The two burners heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly across most of the surface, although I did notice some cooler spots toward the edges. This was a minor inconvenience, but it’s something to keep in mind when cooking delicate items like fish or thin pancakes.

Features

This griddle station is packed with features that make it stand out from the competition. The built-in air fryer is a game-changer; I’ve used it to make crispy fries, onion rings, and even chicken wings, all without the guilt of traditional frying. The warming basket is another thoughtful addition, keeping cooked food warm while you finish grilling the rest. The rear grease management system is a lifesaver for anyone who dreads post-cookout cleanup—it collects all the grease in one place, making it easy to dispose of. The stainless steel hood adds a touch of class and also helps retain heat, which is a huge plus when cooking in windy conditions.

Ease of Use

Setting up the griddle was straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t exactly handy. It arrived mostly assembled, and the instructions were clear. Cooking on it is incredibly intuitive, thanks to the simple temperature control knobs for the burners and the air fryer. I love that I can switch from grilling to air frying without missing a beat. The side shelves provide ample space for prepping ingredients or resting utensils, and the built-in paper towel holder and trash bag hooks are small details that make a big difference in convenience.

Advantages

• The built-in air fryer makes healthier cooking options readily available.
• A large 524-square-inch cooking area accommodates meals for larger groups.
• Rear grease trap simplifies cleaning after cooking greasy items.
• Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after a big cookout used to be my least favorite part of grilling, but this griddle makes it much less painful. The rear grease management system truly shines here, capturing all the drippings and leaving the griddle surface relatively easy to wipe down. I use a water sprayer and a scraper to clean the griddle top, and it only takes a few minutes. The air fryer basket is also easy to clean, although I recommend soaking it immediately after use to avoid stubborn residue.

Drawbacks

• Noticeable hot and cold zones on the cooking surface due to only two burners.
• Heat venting toward the side shelves can scorch items left nearby.
• The air fryer basket could be larger for cooking bigger portions.

Durability

The heavy-duty construction of this griddle station is impressive. The stainless steel hood and frame feel solid and built to last, even with frequent use. The cooking surface is made of carbon steel, which holds up well to high heat and regular seasoning. I’ve kept this griddle outdoors under a cover, and it has shown no signs of wear or rust so far. It’s clear that Blackstone designed this model with longevity in mind.

Portability & Storage

While this griddle station is hefty, the wheels make it relatively easy to move around the backyard. I’ve relocated it a couple of times to find the perfect cooking spot, and the wheels rolled smoothly over my patio. The two side shelves fold down, which is a nice feature for saving space when it’s not in use. However, its size and weight make it less ideal for those who might want to take it on camping trips or tailgating events.

Other Options

When comparing this griddle to competitors like the Camp Chef Flat Top Grill or the Weber Summit Kamado, it holds its own with its unique combination of grilling and air frying. The Camp Chef offers a larger cooking surface and more burners but lacks the air fryer feature. Meanwhile, the Weber Summit Kamado excels in versatility but comes at a significantly higher price point. If you’re looking for a multi-functional option that doesn’t break the bank, this griddle stands out as an excellent choice.

Warranty

The included warranty provides peace of mind, covering potential manufacturing defects. I haven’t had to use it yet, but knowing it’s there adds an extra layer of confidence in the product’s quality. Blackstone’s reputation for customer service reassures me that any issues would be resolved promptly.

Price to Quality Ratio

For the features and build quality, this griddle offers fantastic value for its price. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the added functionality of the built-in air fryer and the thoughtful design details make it worth every penny. I’ve cooked entire meals on this griddle without needing to use my indoor stove, saving me time and reducing the mess in my kitchen. If you’re serious about outdoor cooking, it’s a worthy investment.

Additional information