Instructions for Camp Chef/Blackstone Griddle ReplacementsUpdated 3 months ago

Instructions for Camp Chef/Blackstone Griddle Replacements

PLEASE NOTE: The following instructions apply only to the Steelmade Cookware Griddle Upgrade for Blackstone or Camp Chef griddles. 

Refer to the original manufacturer’s instrustions on how to operate and care for the grill itself. Steelmade does not offer support or parts for Blackstone or Camp Chef grill products. Fitment Check Prior to use please place your Steelmade Griddle Upgrade onto your Camp Chef or Blackstone Grill to check for proper fitment. Specifically for Blackstone grills, we have observed variances in manufacturing tolerances and specifications across different models and dates of manufacture that can affect the proper placement of the griddle. Contact our customer support team at [email protected] if you encounter any fitment issues. 

Initial Setup:

Steelmade Replacement Griddles ship unseasoned and coated in a protective layer of food-safe mineral oil to prevent rust or corrosion on the bare steel. Prior to first use, wash the griddle using a mild detergent or dish soap using a bristle dish brush and rinse with water to remove the coating of shipping oil. Blot dry immediately with a lint-free rag or cloth. Due to the size and weight of the Replacement Griddles we recommend completing this washing step outdoors using a garden hose if possible. 

Immediately proceed to the “Seasoning” step below after washing to prevent corrosion from forming. 

Seasoning:

The seasoning process is the black magic of griddle ownership. If you’ve ever owned cast iron cookware, you’re probably already familiar with the term. For the uninitiated, “seasoning” refers to a natural chemical reaction where oil and fat are heated to the point where they literally bake into the steel through a process called polymerization. This transforms the raw silver steel into a gorgeous black finish with amazing non-stick properties without the use of dangerous coatings, like Teflon. 

To begin seasoning your griddle, turn your grill burners to medium heat and allow the griddle to come to temperature to dry completely. Using a metal spatula, spread a thin layer of oil on the entire cooking surface. You may repeat this process to accelerate the seasoning process or allow the seasoning to continue to build while cooking subsequent meals. Keep it heated for 10-15 minutes before allowing to cool completely. Apply a thin layer of oil to the entire surface of the griddle. This will provide a base layer to protect the steel from corrosion while you continue the seasoning process. After a few meals on your griddle you’ll see the entire surface transform into a cast iron-like appearance. The low-maintenance finish has amazing non-stick properties that cleans easily. 

Cooking: 

Preheat your griddle to cooking temperature, beginning with low heat for a period of time before gradually increasing the temperature to your desired setting. Best results are obtained using low to medium heat. Do not overheat your griddle or leave a heated griddle empty for a period of time. Do not use high heat settings on the grill as excessive temperatures can burn your food and damage the seasoning layer. We recommend using an infrared thermometer to accurately read the temperature of your griddle. Despite the heavy steel construction and welded reinforcements on the Steelmade Griddle Upgrade, it is still possible to damage the griddle with excessive heat. The propane burners on your grill are capable of heating the metal to 800-1000 degrees, far beyond what is needed for cooking, and can damage or warp your griddle. 

Extreme temperature changes can cause warping. Do not excessively preheat your griddle top before cooking, especially if you will be applying chilled or frozen food. This extreme temperature change is likely to cause warping. 

Cleaning:

As soon as you’re done cooking, and while the griddle is still hot, add some water across the surface. The hot water will steam clean away any stubborn bits of food that may be stuck on the surface. Use a food scraper to clean the entire surface, directing the contents into the drain holes. Leave the heat on the stove to completely dry the griddle. Apply a thin coat of Flat Top Oil (or oil of your choice) to the entire surface of the Flat Top to protect it from corrosion and leave it ready for the next meal. 

Tips: 

Get right to it: Clean the Flat Top immediately after use, while it is still hot or warm. Don’t soak the Flat Top or leave it in the sink because it may rust. Avoid using soap or steel wool, as these may strip the seasoning. To remove stuck-on food, scrub the pan with a paste of Steelmade Flat Top Scrub, then rinse or wipe with a paper towel. Do not use large quantities or cold water while cleaning your griddle. Use small shots of water on sticky parts using a squeeze bottle.

Storing: Store griddle in a cool, dry location with a light coating of oil. Always cover griddle if stored outdoors. Choose from a variety of griddle covers offered by Blackstone to fit your particular model. When protecting griddle with soft cover, use the “tenting” method to prevent water from accumulating on griddle top. “Tenting” involves placing an object (a bowl, tennis ball or PVC pipe) beneath soft cover in the center of griddle in order to allow water to slide off. “Tenting” helps prevent rust.