How to Strip and Re-Season Blackstone Griddle: Step-by-Step Guide

If you want your Blackstone griddle to perform like new, knowing how to strip and re-season it is essential. Over time, buildup from cooking oils and food can affect its non-stick surface and flavor. Stripping removes that old layer, giving you a fresh start.

Re-seasoning your griddle not only protects the surface from rust but also creates a natural non-stick coating that improves with use. With the right steps, you can keep your griddle in top shape, ensuring every meal tastes great and cooks evenly. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this guide will help you maintain your Blackstone griddle for years of delicious outdoor cooking.

Understanding Your Blackstone Griddle

Knowing your Blackstone griddle’s materials and how its coating works helps you maintain it properly. This understanding guides effective stripping and re-seasoning.

Materials and Coating Overview

Your Blackstone griddle features a cold-rolled steel cooking surface. This steel provides durability and even heat distribution but requires seasoning to create a natural non-stick layer. The seasoning process forms a polymerized oil coating through heating, which protects the steel from rust and food sticking. Unlike cast iron, the cold-rolled steel surface needs regular seasoning to maintain its protective barrier and cooking performance.

Why Stripping and Re-Seasoning Are Important

Stripping removes accumulated burnt oils, food residue, and old seasoning that degrade your griddle’s performance. Leaving buildup causes uneven heating and sticking issues. Re-seasoning rebuilds the protective oil layer, preventing rust and enhancing the surface’s natural non-stick qualities. Regular stripping and re-seasoning extend the griddle’s lifespan and ensure consistent cooking results with less maintenance effort.

Preparing to Strip Your Blackstone Griddle

Stripping your Blackstone griddle requires proper preparation to ensure effective cleaning and safe handling. Gathering the right tools and following safety measures help you achieve a clean surface ready for re-seasoning.

Required Tools and Materials

• Griddle scraper: Use a metal or plastic scraper designed to remove built-up residue without damaging the steel surface.
• Steel wool or abrasive pad: Choose a medium to heavy-duty pad to remove stubborn burnt oils and carbon deposits.
• Cleaning agent: Select a degreaser or a mixture of vinegar and water for effective residue breakdown. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the steel.
• Paper towels or clean rags: Have plenty on hand for wiping down the surface after cleaning.
• Cooking oil: Use high-smoke point oils like flaxseed, grapeseed, or canola for re-seasoning.
• Heat source: Ensure access to your griddle’s burner or an alternative heat source to season the surface after stripping.

Safety Precautions to Consider

• Wear gloves: Protect your hands from harsh cleaning agents, heat, and sharp scrapers by using chemical-resistant gloves.
• Work in a well-ventilated area: Stripping produces fumes from burnt oils and cleaning solutions, so ensure proper airflow to avoid inhaling irritants.
• Avoid water on hot griddle: Never apply cold water to the hot surface as this causes warping and damage to the steel. Let the griddle cool before cleaning.
• Use eye protection: Guard your eyes from splashes or flying debris while scrubbing or scraping the surface.
• Check burner status: Confirm that your griddle’s burners are off during cleaning to prevent accidents or unexpected flare-ups.

Step-by-Step Guide to Stripping Your Griddle

Stripping your Blackstone griddle prepares it for re-seasoning by removing old oil layers, burnt residue, and rust. Follow these steps carefully to restore a clean, smooth cooking surface.

Cleaning Off Old Seasoning and Residue

Start by heating your griddle on medium for 10 minutes to loosen old seasoning. Turn off the burners and use a griddle scraper to push away peeling layers and stuck-on food particles. Apply a degreasing cleaning agent designed for steel surfaces if residue remains stubborn. Scrub gently with steel wool or a non-abrasive scouring pad to avoid scratching the metal. Rinse with warm water, ensuring the griddle cools before applying water to prevent warping or rust. Dry the surface completely with paper towels or a clean cloth.

Removing Rust and Carbon Buildup

Inspect your griddle for rust spots and carbon deposits after residue removal. Use fine-grade steel wool or a non-metallic brush to scrub rust areas until the bare steel appears. For heavy carbon buildup, sprinkle coarse salt over the surface and scrub with a damp scouring pad. Wipe off the abrasive and debris with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the steel or leave toxic residues. Finish by wiping the entire surface with a thin layer of oil to prevent immediate rust formation before the re-seasoning process.

How to Re-Season Your Blackstone Griddle

Re-seasoning your Blackstone griddle rebuilds its protective surface, ensuring long-lasting non-stick performance and rust protection. Follow these steps for effective seasoning.

Choosing the Right Oil for Seasoning

Select oils with a high smoke point to create a durable seasoning layer. Popular choices include:

• Flaxseed oil: polymerizes well and forms a hard, lasting coating
• Canola oil: affordable and readily available with a smoke point around 400°F
• Grapeseed oil: high smoke point near 420°F and neutral flavor
• Vegetable oil: common in many kitchens with a smoke point around 400°F

Avoid oils with low smoke points like olive or butter, as they burn quickly and leave sticky residue. Use at least 1 tablespoon per 12-inch section to ensure sufficient coverage.

Applying and Heating the Oil Properly

Start with a clean, dry griddle surface at room temperature. Pour a small amount of your chosen oil onto the surface. Use a paper towel or cloth to spread a thin, even layer across the entire cooking area. Apply multiple thin coats rather than a thick one to prevent uneven seasoning.

Next, ignite the burners and heat the griddle to 400-450°F. Maintain this temperature for 30-60 minutes while the oil polymerizes, bonding to the steel. You’ll notice the surface darkening and becoming smoother.

After heating, turn off the burners and allow the griddle to cool completely before adding additional oil layers or cooking. Repeat this process 2-3 times to build a strong, resilient seasoning layer that enhances cooking performance and rust resistance.

Maintenance Tips to Prolong Your Griddle’s Life

Proper maintenance keeps your Blackstone griddle functioning smoothly and extends its lifespan. Follow these best practices after cooking and maintain a regular seasoning and cleaning schedule for optimal results.

Best Practices After Cooking

Clean the griddle surface while it’s still warm but not hot enough to cause burns. Use a metal scraper to remove food debris and grease. Wipe the surface with a paper towel or cloth soaked in a small amount of cooking oil to prevent rust. Avoid using abrasive tools that can damage the seasoning layer. Turn off the burners and let the griddle cool before covering it to keep dust and moisture out.

Regular Seasoning and Cleaning Schedule

Season your griddle every 10 to 15 uses or when the surface appears dull or sticky. Clean the griddle thoroughly before each seasoning session, removing all food particles and old oil buildup. Use high-smoke point oils such as canola, grapeseed, or flaxseed oil to build and maintain a robust non-stick surface. Store your griddle in a dry place and cover it when not in use to minimize rust and corrosion. Regular maintenance preserves your griddle’s performance and protects the cold-rolled steel surface over time.

Conclusion

Taking the time to strip and re-season your Blackstone griddle is key to keeping it in top shape. This process not only restores its non-stick surface but also protects the steel from rust and extends the life of your griddle. With the right tools and techniques, you’ll enjoy consistent cooking results and a durable, easy-to-clean surface.

Make it a habit to maintain your griddle regularly. A well-seasoned griddle makes every meal better and ensures your outdoor cooking experience stays enjoyable for years to come.