Masterclass: How To Bring Your Blackstone Griddle Back To Life

Does your once-pristine Blackstone griddle now look like a seasoned cast iron skillet? Don’t worry, it’s possible to restore its original shine and functionality with a little elbow grease and the right techniques. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of restoring your Blackstone griddle to its former glory.

Materials You’ll Need

• Griddle cleaner or degreaser
• Soft-bristled brush or sponge
• Steel wool or scouring pad
• Seasoning oil (vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil)
• Heat-resistant gloves
• Paper towels

Step 1: Cleaning the Griddle

• Remove the griddle top: Use a wrench to loosen the bolts that secure the griddle top to the base. Carefully lift the griddle top and place it on a heat-resistant surface.
• Degrease the griddle: Apply a generous amount of griddle cleaner or degreaser to the surface of the griddle. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes to soak in.
• Scrub the griddle: Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the griddle surface, removing all grease, food residue, and debris.
• Rinse the griddle: Rinse the griddle thoroughly with hot water to remove any remaining cleaner or degreaser.
• Dry the griddle: Use paper towels to pat the griddle dry.

Step 2: Removing Rust

• Check for rust: Inspect the griddle surface for any signs of rust. Rust appears as reddish-brown spots or streaks.
• Remove light rust: If the rust is light, use a steel wool pad to gently scrub away the rust. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the griddle surface.
• Remove heavy rust: For heavy rust, use a scouring pad to remove the rust. Again, be gentle and avoid damaging the griddle surface.

Step 3: Seasoning the Griddle

• Apply seasoning oil: Pour a generous amount of seasoning oil onto the griddle surface. Use a paper towel or brush to spread the oil evenly over the entire surface.
• Heat the griddle: Turn on the griddle and heat it to medium-high heat.
• Wipe the griddle: Once the griddle is hot, use a paper towel to wipe away any excess oil.
• Repeat: Repeat the process of applying seasoning oil, heating the griddle, and wiping away excess oil 3-4 times.
• Cool the griddle: Turn off the griddle and allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Reassembling the Griddle

• Place the griddle top: Once the griddle is cool, place the griddle top back on the base.
• Tighten the bolts: Use a wrench to tighten the bolts that secure the griddle top to the base.
• Check for leaks: Turn on the griddle and check for any leaks around the edges of the griddle top. If you see any leaks, tighten the bolts further.

Step 5: Maintaining Your Restored Griddle

• Clean the griddle regularly: Clean the griddle after each use to prevent grease and food residue from building up.
• Season the griddle occasionally: Season the griddle every 4-6 months to maintain its non-stick surface.
• Store the griddle properly: When not in use, store the griddle in a dry, covered location to protect it from the elements.

FAQs

Q: Can I use any type of oil to season my griddle?
A: It’s best to use a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and can burn easily.

Q: How often should I clean my griddle?
A: It’s recommended to clean your griddle after each use to prevent grease and food residue from building up.

Q: How can I prevent my griddle from rusting?
A: The best way to prevent rust is to season the griddle regularly and store it in a dry, covered location when not in use.

Q: What should I do if my griddle gets rusty?
A: If your griddle gets rusty, follow the steps outlined in this guide to remove the rust and re-season the griddle.

Q: Can I use a grill brush to clean my griddle?
A: It’s not recommended to use a grill brush on your griddle, as it can damage the non-stick surface. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge.

Final Note: A Restored Griddle, Ready to Grill

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore your Blackstone griddle to its former glory. With proper maintenance, your restored griddle will provide you with years of delicious grilling experiences.