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Family standing around Blackstone griddle cooking
The best thing you can do for your new Blackstone BBQ is season the griddle to add a protective layer to the cooking surface. Here’s how to do it.

 

So, you’ve just unboxed and assembled your first Blackstone. You might be asking yourself, “where do I start?” Before cooking on a Blackstone griddle, you’ll want to make sure you’ve properly seasoned the griddle top. 

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Why do I need to season my griddle before use? 

Seasoning is the process of burning off the organic compounds in cooking oil, leaving a protective layer.  

A well-seasoned griddle top gives you a cooking surface that your food won’t stick to, and seasoning also protects against rust, making sure your griddle can handle years of serving up meals for your family and friends.  

Salmon and vegetables on a Blackstone griddle

Kickstart the seasoning process 

When seasoning your griddle for the first time, start with a clean griddle top. Wipe away any dust or debris with a dish towel and use warm, soapy water to clean the top, rinsing and drying thoroughly before continuing.  

Next, fire up the griddle and turn it to high heat until the surface changes colour and you’re ready for the next step in the process. 

Using tongs and a paper towel or cloth, spread two to three tablespoons of your favourite plant-based cooking oil like canola or sunflower across the entire surface. For this step, less is more – apply a thin, even layer of oil to coat the griddle top and side walls, creating that protective layer. The oil on the griddle top will start to smoke, which means the oil is breaking down and bonding to the surface. 

When that first layer stops smoking – about 10–15 minutes – that’s your cue for another coat. Repeat this process three to five times to build up your seasoning layers, so every cook is effortless. 

Father and son standing around Blackstone griddle cooking

Pro tips for perfect seasoning

After you’ve seasoned your griddle top, don’t be surprised if you need to add a little extra oil during your first few meals. Adding oil helps build up and strengthen your seasoning.  

If you notice that the sides and corners of the griddle aren’t as dark as the centre, just remember that seasoning is an ongoing process, and these areas will darken over time as you continue to cook on your Blackstone.  

Keep your griddle ready for the next adventure 

Before you pack away your griddle for the season, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface, keeping the seasoning fresh and ready for your next backyard bash. 

Don’t forget to clean the exterior, too. Use a mild soap and a non-abrasive cloth to keep the powder coat in pristine condition. If your griddle doesn’t have a hood, consider pairing it with a hard cover and a soft cover for optimal protection.  

Are you ready to cook? 

Take a look at the full Blackstone range.  

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.