Blackstone Griddle Front Vs. Rear Grease - Which To Choose?

Blackstone griddles use grease catchers to help keep your griddle clean and your food tasting great. But Blackstone has two different style grease catchers: one in the back and one in the front. So, which style do you choose?

The location of the grease catcher on a Blackstone griddle is a personal preference. The front grease catcher makes it easier to tell the grease level. However, the back greaser catcher has a bigger basin, making it easier to avoid spills.

While what grease management system you choose is a matter of preference, there are still things to consider. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of each grease management system on the Blackstone griddle. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about Blackstone griddles, so read on!

Is The Front Or Back Grease Tray Better On A Blackstone Griddle?

When Blackstone griddles first came out, they only had the front grease catcher. The front grease tray is still the most popular model. However, Blackstone now offers a griddle with a rear grease catcher.

If you go onto Blackstone's website, you will see that almost every griddle model now has a rear grease management system. But does that mean it's better?

Not necessarily, as every cook has different preferences. The front grease catcher is easier to monitor. You can easily see when the grease needs to be emptied. However, the drawback of the grease catcher in the front is that splatters could get on your clothes or Blackstone parts.

The rear grease management system has a larger basin. However, it may be slightly inconvenient to walk around to the back of the griddle to check the grease level and clean it out.

But being able to push any grease away from you instead of towards you is a plus. The rear grease system also protects the knobs and any electrical components on the back of the griddle.

If you host a lot of parties where you are cooking for a lot of people, the rear grease management system will make your life a lot easier. You won't have to worry about guests accidentally bumping into the front grease tray and making a mess.

The bottom line is that it really comes down to personal preference. If you like having the ability to see the grease level and don't mind emptying it out often, go with the front grease catcher.

If you want a larger basin and don't mind walking around to the back of the griddle, choose the rear grease management system.

What Do You Do With The Grease On A Blackstone Griddle?

Once your grease trap is full, you have some options on what you would like to do with it. First, you can properly dispose of it in the garbage bin.

Next, you can use the grease to cook! Some people like to save their bacon grease or beef tallow to cook other foods in. The leftover bacon grease can add flavor to your eggs or potatoes. The beef tallow can be used to fry chicken or as a base for soup.

If you choose to cook with the grease, make sure you strain it first. You don't want any bits of food or charred bits in your food. Once you strain it, you can store it in a container in your fridge.

One thing to note is that you should not use the leftover grease to season the grill. After each use, you should use fresh oil to season the griddle.

If you choose not to cook with grease, you can also compost it. You will need to let it cool completely before adding it to your compost bin.

Can You Use Your Own Grease Trap On A Blackstone Griddle?

If you don't like the grease trap that came with your Blackstone griddle, you do have the option of using your own. You can buy a grease trap at any hardware store. Make sure you get one that is the right size for your model of Blackstone griddle.

Installing a grease trap is easy to do. You will need to remove the old grease trap and replace it with the new one.

Once you have installed the new grease trap, make sure to test it out before cooking on the griddle. This will ensure that it is working properly and that there are no leaks. A person might do this if they want a different size or type of grease trap.

The most important thing to remember is that you need to make sure the grease trap you choose fits your model of Blackstone griddle.

This may take some customization on your part, but it is worth it to make sure your griddle is working properly.

How Often Should You Empty The Grease Trap On A Blackstone Griddle?

It's best to empty the grease trap after each use. The reason for this is that the grease can start to build up and become rancid. Rancid grease can attract bugs and other pests. If you are cooking for a large group, you may need to empty the grease trap more than once during your cooking session.

You should also clean your grease trap with water and soap. This will help to remove any buildup of grease. Make sure you rinse the trap thoroughly before using it again. It's also a good idea to check the trap for leaks before each use.

Leaking grease can be a fire hazard, so it's important to make sure your trap is in good working condition.

Is It Okay To Dump Grease Outside?

It is not okay to dump grease outside. Dumping grease can attract animals and bugs. It can also lead to clogged drains. If you must dispose of grease, do so in the garbage or recycle bin. Do not pour it down the drain.

Pouring grease down the drain can cause plumbing problems. It can also lead to environmental problems. So, it's best to dispose of grease properly. This will keep your griddle working properly and help to keep the environment clean.

Do You Oil A Blackstone Griddle Before Each Use?

After you have seasoned your Blackstone griddle, the nonstick surface will be activated. You will not need to oil the griddle before each use. In fact, too much oil can make your food stick to the griddle.

If you are cooking something that tends to stick, like eggs, you can add a little oil to the griddle. Do not use too much oil, or your food will stick. The reason being is that the oil will pool, causing a gummy texture. As a result, the food will stick to the griddle.

A light coating of oil is all you need to cook most foods; that is, if the Blackstone griddle was properly seasoned before the first use.

How Do You Season A Blackstone Griddle The First Time?

If you are seasoning your Blackstone griddle for the first time, there are a few things you need to do.

First, you need to make sure the griddle is clean. You can clean it with water and soap. Then, rinse it with fresh water.
Now, turn the heat on high for 10-15 minutes to get the Blackstone griddle hot, smoking, and black.
Once it's hot, add a light layer of oil of your choice to the griddle. Spread the oil using tongs and a paper towel.
Next, turn the griddle on high heat again for 30 minutes to let the oil adhere to the griddle.
Once 30 minutes is up, turn off the griddle, and repeat the steps 3-4 times.

By following these steps, you will create a nonstick surface on your Blackstone griddle.

Now, it's ready for cooking!

Do You Clean A Blackstone Griddle After Each Use?

You should clean your Blackstone griddle after each use. This will help to keep the griddle in good condition and prevent the buildup of grease and food particles.

To clean the griddle, first, turn off the heat and let it cool. Then, scrape off any food particles with a spatula.
Next, clean the griddle with water and soap. Rinse it with fresh water.
Finally, wipe the griddle down with a paper towel or cloth. Make sure it is completely dry before using it again.

You should also add a layer of oil to the griddle after each use. This will help to keep the nonstick surface in good condition.

By following these steps, you will keep your Blackstone griddle in good working condition.

Final Thoughts

Overall, whether you choose the new rear grease management system or the older model, both are good choices. It really just comes down to what you prefer.

Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might enjoy:

Can You Boil Water On A Blackstone Griddle?

Can A Blackstone Griddle Be Built Into An Outdoor Kitchen?

Blackstone Griddle Pros And Cons: Is It Right For You?