Back in 2021, I was just getting into the world of griddles. The options were popping up, and the trend of outdoor cooking on flat tops was growing fast. It was an exciting time to be part of the griddle community. Fast forward to today, and wow, have things changed! The market has exploded with new models, features, and accessories, making it a fantastic time to dive into griddle cooking.
Today, I want to take a look at how far we’ve come and compare two major players in the griddle game: Cabela’s and Blackstone. Back in the day, I started with Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle. It was a solid choice and served me well for a long time. But then I tried the Blackstone 36″ Griddle, and it was a game-changer.
The Blackstone has held up better over time, and the sheer number of resources, accessories, and community support makes it my go-to. However, in all fairness, my Cabela’s griddle still works fine and remains a good option for anyone looking for a reliable, straightforward griddle.
Let’s dive into what each brand offers now, how they stack up against each other, and which one might be the best fit for your backyard cooking adventures. So, lets chat about the current state of griddles, check out the latest models, and see why Blackstone is now the retail king of griddles and flat tops, while Cabela’s is still hanging in there with a few solid options. So, let’s get into it.
Blackstone 36 vs Cabelas 36 At a Glance:
Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle is a solid choice if you’re looking for something dependable and budget-friendly. It got a sturdy stainless steel body and a large cold-rolled steel cooking surface, perfect for big meals. While it’s got powerful burners and a generous cooking area, it falls short with a basic grease management system and fewer accessory options. Users generally love its straightforward, no-frills functionality, but it doesn’t quite have the same level of community support or high-end features as some other brands.
The Blackstone 36″ Griddle is a favorite among outdoor cooking fans for good reason. This griddle features a durable stainless steel body and a top-notch cold-rolled steel cooking surface, ensuring even heat distribution. It shines with its excellent grease management system and a wide range of available accessories, from pizza ovens to air fryers. While it’s a bit pricier and heavier, the investment pays off with its premium build and robust community support. Enthusiasts appreciate the comprehensive tutorials and active online groups that come with owning a Blackstone, making it the go-to for those who want a top-tier griddling experience.
Advancements in Griddles by 2024
Fast forward to 2024, and the griddle market has absolutely exploded. The variety and quality of griddles available today are miles ahead of what we had a few years ago. Blackstone has firmly established itself as the leader in the griddle world, offering a wide range of models and accessories that cater to every type of griddle enthusiast. From basic, budget-friendly options to high-end, feature-packed models, there’s something for everyone.
Meanwhile, new players have entered the market, and existing brands have upped their game. We’ve seen advancements in materials, design, and functionality. Griddles now come with more powerful burners, better heat distribution, and a host of accessories that make cooking even more fun and convenient. The griddle trend has grown into a full-blown movement, and it’s clear that outdoor cooking on flat tops is here to stay.
Now, let’s take a closer look at what Cabela’s and Blackstone have to offer in 2024, and see how they compare in the ever-evolving world of griddles.
Cabela’s Griddle Offerings
When it comes to griddles, Cabela’s has a modest selection. They focus on a few key models, with their 36″ Propane Griddle being one of the standout options. This griddle is built for those who love outdoor cooking but don’t necessarily need all the bells and whistles. It offers a solid cooking surface, decent heat output, and the reliability you’d expect from a brand like Cabela’s. It’s a good option for anyone looking for a straightforward, functional griddle that gets the job done without too much fuss.
Blackstone’s Griddle Offerings
Now, let’s talk about Blackstone. If you’re into griddles, you’ve undoubtedly heard of them. Blackstone has established itself as the king of griddles and flat tops, with an extensive lineup that caters to every need and budget. They offer a range of models from compact, portable options perfect for camping, to large, professional-grade griddles for serious backyard chefs.
Blackstone’s 36″ Griddle is a fan favorite, known for its durability, ample cooking space, and powerful burners. But that’s just the beginning. They also have high-end versions like the Select 36″ Griddle with Cabinets, which adds storage and convenience, and the Iron Forged 36″ Griddle with Hood, which boasts superior build quality and additional features.
In addition to their griddles, Blackstone offers a plethora of accessories that enhance the griddling experience. From pizza ovens and air fryers to specialized spatulas and cleaning kits, they’ve got everything you need to take your outdoor cooking to the next level. Plus, the community and support around Blackstone griddles are second to none, making it easier to learn, share, and enjoy your griddle adventures.
Detailed Comparison: Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle vs. Blackstone 36″ Griddle
| Feature/Specification | Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle | Blackstone 36″ Griddle |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Surface Area | 720 square inches | 720 square inches |
| Number of Burners | 4 Stainless Steel Burners | 4 Stainless Steel Burners |
| Heat Output | 60,000 BTUs | 60,000 BTUs |
| Materials Used | Stainless steel body, cold-rolled steel cooking surface | Stainless steel body, cold-rolled steel cooking surface |
| Construction Quality | Solid but basic build | Premium build quality with refined finish |
| Ease of Use | Straightforward controls | User-friendly design with intuitive features |
| Grease Management | Basic grease cup | Rear grease management system |
| Price | Generally lower price point | Slightly higher price point |
| Storage | Limited storage options | Available with models featuring built-in cabinets (Select Series) |
| Accessories | Limited accessory options | Extensive range of accessories (e.g., pizza maker, air fryer) |
| Community Support | Limited dedicated resources | Extensive online community and support |
| Tutorials and Resources | Basic customer support | Comprehensive tutorials and user experiences available online |
| Special Features | No additional high-end features | High-end models available (Select Series, Forged Series) |
Design and Build Quality
Materials Used: The Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle is built with a stainless steel body and a cold-rolled steel cooking surface. It’s sturdy and designed to withstand outdoor elements, but it doesn’t feel quite as robust as some of the premium models out there.
On the other hand, the Blackstone 36″ Griddle features a similar stainless steel frame, but with a slightly more refined finish. The cooking surface is also cold-rolled steel, but Blackstone has a reputation for superior seasoning and longevity, making their griddles highly durable and resistant to rust when properly maintained.
Construction Quality: Both griddles are solidly constructed, but the Blackstone edges out with its attention to detail and overall finish. The welds, joints, and general build quality of the Blackstone 36″ Griddle tend to feel more premium, giving users confidence in its durability over many cooking sessions.
Features and Specifications
Cooking Surface Area: Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle offers a generous cooking surface of around 720 square inches, which is plenty of space to cook for a large group.
The Blackstone 36″ Griddle matches this with an equally impressive 720 square inch cooking surface, providing ample room for all your cooking needs, from breakfast spreads to large dinners.
Number of Burners: Cabela’s model comes equipped with four stainless steel burners, each capable of independent control. This allows for versatile cooking options and efficient heat distribution.
Similarly, the Blackstone 36″ Griddle features four burners, also independently controlled, providing even heating and flexibility to cook different types of food simultaneously at varying temperatures.
Heat Output: Cabela’s griddle delivers a total of 60,000 BTUs, ensuring it can handle anything from a light sear to a full-on fry-up.
Blackstone’s griddle also offers 60,000 BTUs across its four burners, ensuring powerful and consistent heat across the entire cooking surface.
Usability and Performance
Ease of Use: Both griddles are designed for ease of use, with straightforward ignition systems and simple controls. However, Blackstone’s design tends to feel a bit more intuitive and user-friendly, especially with features like a rear grease management system that makes cleanup easier.
Cooking Performance: When it comes to cooking performance, both griddles perform admirably, delivering consistent heat and excellent cooking results. The Blackstone, however, often gets the nod for slightly better heat distribution and recovery times, thanks to its finely-tuned burners and superior construction.
Price and Value
Cost Comparison: Cabela’s 36″ Propane Griddle typically comes in at a slightly lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still want a large, capable griddle.
The Blackstone 36″ Griddle is priced a bit higher, but this is often justified by its superior build quality, user-friendly features, and the extensive community and support that comes with owning a Blackstone product.
Value for Money: While both griddles offer good value, the Blackstone generally provides better long-term value. Its higher build quality, ease of use, and robust community support make it a worthy investment for serious griddle enthusiasts. Cabela’s griddle, however, remains a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, no-frills griddle at a more accessible price.
Blackstone’s High-End Models and Accessories
Select Series
Features of the Select 36″ Griddle with Cabinets:
The Blackstone Select 36″ Griddle with Cabinets is a top-tier option for those who want a blend of performance and convenience. This model comes with built-in cabinets, providing ample storage space for your cooking tools, propane tanks, and other essentials. The cabinets are made from durable, weather-resistant materials, ensuring they hold up well in various outdoor conditions.
The griddle itself boasts four powerful burners, delivering a total of 60,000 BTUs, and the same 720 square inches of cooking surface as other Blackstone models. The cooking surface is made of cold-rolled steel, ensuring even heat distribution and excellent heat retention. The Select series also features upgraded knobs and a more refined overall design, making it a centerpiece for any outdoor cooking setup.
Forged Series
Features of the Iron Forged 36″ Griddle with Hood:
Stepping up to the Iron Forged Series, the Blackstone Iron Forged 36″ Griddle with Hood is designed for those who demand the best. This model features a hood, which helps in maintaining consistent cooking temperatures, protects the griddle surface when not in use, and allows for a wider range of cooking techniques, such as baking and roasting.
The Iron Forged Griddle is built with premium materials, including a thicker, more robust cold-rolled steel cooking surface and heavy-duty stainless steel construction. It offers the same 60,000 BTUs of heat output and 720 square inches of cooking space but stands out with its superior build quality and enhanced durability. This series is perfect for those who want a professional-grade griddle experience.
Accessories For Blackstones and Cables Griddles
Pizza Maker:
One of the standout accessories from Blackstone is the pizza oven attachment. This accessory transforms your griddle into a pizza-making machine, allowing you to cook perfect pizzas with crispy crusts and melty cheese right in your backyard. It’s easy to use and provides a fun way to diversify your outdoor cooking repertoire.
Air Fryer
Another popular accessory is the Blackstone air fryer. This add-on allows you to air fry foods directly on your griddle, combining the best of both worlds. You can achieve crispy, delicious results without the need for a separate appliance, making it a versatile addition to your cooking setup.
Other Popular Accessories
Blackstone offers a wide range of other accessories designed to enhance your griddling experience. From specialized spatulas and cleaning kits to custom covers and seasoning kits, there’s something for every need. Some of the most popular accessories include:
- Griddle Toolkits: Comprehensive sets that include spatulas, scrapers, and other essential tools.
- Griddle Covers: Custom-fit covers to protect your griddle from the elements.
- Seasoning and Cleaning Kits: Products to help maintain your griddle’s surface and keep it in top condition.
- Griddle Carts and Stands: Portable options for those who need a mobile cooking station.
Blackstone’s high-end models and extensive range of accessories provide a premium and versatile griddle experience, making it easier than ever to cook a variety of delicious meals outdoors. Whether you’re a casual cook or a dedicated griddle enthusiast, Blackstone has options that cater to all your needs.
Community and Support
Blackstone’s Community and Resources
Online Community and Support:
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Blackstone griddle is the thriving online community and the extensive support network available to users. Blackstone has cultivated a dedicated following of griddle enthusiasts who share tips, recipes, and advice through various online platforms, including social media groups, forums, and the official Blackstone website.
Tutorials and User Experiences:
Blackstone also offers a wealth of tutorials and user-generated content to help new and experienced griddle owners alike. Their YouTube channel is packed with instructional videos, cooking demonstrations, and maintenance guides. This makes it easy to get the most out of your griddle and ensures you’re never short of inspiration for your next cookout. The community-driven aspect of Blackstone ownership means you can always find help and advice, no matter the question or issue.
Cabela’s Community and Support
Limited Resources:
In contrast, Cabela’s offers fewer resources specifically dedicated to their griddles. While they do have customer service and some basic support, it doesn’t compare to the depth and breadth of what Blackstone provides. There are fewer online communities centered around Cabela’s griddles, which can make it harder to find detailed advice or share experiences with other users.
Less Dedicated Support for Griddles:
Cabela’s is a retailer with a vast range of products, and griddles are just one small part of their inventory. As a result, the support and resources dedicated to their griddles are more limited. You won’t find the same level of specialized help, extensive tutorials, or active community that Blackstone owners enjoy.
Final Verdict
Overall Comparison
Strengths and Weaknesses of Both Brands:
- Blackstone:
- Strengths: Superior build quality, extensive model range, powerful burners, and excellent community support.
- Weaknesses: Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- Cabela’s:
- Strengths: Solid, reliable griddles at a lower price point.
- Weaknesses: Limited range, fewer resources, and less specialized support.
Recommendation
For those looking for a griddle with dedicated support, a thriving online community, and a wide range of models and accessories, Blackstone is the clear choice. The brand’s focus on griddles means you get a product designed by and for enthusiasts, with all the benefits that come from a specialized, well-supported product.
Cabela’s griddles, while not as advanced or supported as Blackstone’s, still offer a solid, no-frills option for those on a budget or those who just want a basic, reliable griddle for occasional use.
Conclusion
Both Blackstone and Cabela’s griddles are suitable for most users, providing reliable performance and ample cooking space. However, Blackstone’s edge in specialization, extensive community resources, and high-end features make it the better choice for serious griddle enthusiasts and those looking for long-term value and support. If you’re just looking for a basic, functional griddle, Cabela’s will do the job. But if you want to dive into the full griddle experience, with all the bells and whistles, Blackstone is the way to go.
