Mastering the Griddle: Your Ultimate Guide to Essential Blackstone Accessories

Bringing home a new Blackstone Griddle marks the beginning of an exciting culinary journey. However, new owners quickly discover that the initial purchase is just the first step into a world of endless possibilities – and an array of accessories. While the thought of continuous spending might seem daunting, investing in the right tools is crucial for maximizing your griddle’s potential, ensuring its longevity, and truly elevating your outdoor cooking experience.

Navigating the vast market of Blackstone accessories can feel overwhelming. Many brands, both official and third-party, offer a dizzying selection, making smart choices essential. There are generally three approaches new griddle owners take when it comes to accessories:

• The Minimalist Approach: Rely on existing kitchen tools and avoid specific griddle accessories. While this can work temporarily, it often leads to premature wear of your griddle without proper protection, potential damage to the cooking surface due to inadequate care, and a realization that specialized tools like multiple spatulas significantly improve the cooking process.
• The Gradual Accumulation: Start with a few essential items and slowly build your collection. This allows for thoughtful budgeting and ensures you acquire tools as you discover specific needs, avoiding unnecessary purchases.
• The “Go All In” Strategy: Embrace the excitement and fully stock your griddle station from the outset. For those who are already committed to the griddle lifestyle, loading up on cool gadgets can immediately enhance the fun and efficiency of every cooking adventure.

While the allure of “going all in” is strong, especially with the abundance of innovative products available, a balanced approach is often best. Remember, not all accessories need to be Blackstone-branded. Exploring highly-rated options from smaller businesses on platforms like Amazon or discovering hidden gems on Facebook Marketplace can offer excellent value and functionality. Below, we’ll highlight the must-have accessories that will get you started on the right foot, ensuring your Blackstone griddle adventures are successful and enjoyable from day one.

Why Specialized Accessories Are Essential for Outdoor Griddles and Grills

Unlike many household appliances or personal items that function perfectly out of the box, outdoor cooking equipment like griddles, grills, and barbecues often require a dedicated suite of accessories to perform at their best. Consider a new car: it comes fully equipped with a steering wheel, engine components, wipers, and even a spare tire. Similarly, a refrigerator or washing machine is ready to operate once connected. While a washing machine needs detergent, it doesn’t demand dozens of supplementary tools.

The world of outdoor cooking, especially with a Blackstone griddle, is different. It has fostered an entire “cottage industry” around specialized tools, cleaning supplies, and protective gear. This isn’t just about consumerism; it’s about the unique demands of cooking on a large, flat, hot surface in an outdoor environment. Griddle cooking involves high heat, significant amounts of food, various cooking techniques (sautéing, smashing, steaming), and the need for rigorous cleaning and maintenance to preserve the seasoned surface. These specific challenges necessitate purpose-built accessories that make the process easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Without the right accessories, you might struggle with flipping delicate pancakes, effectively scraping off burnt residue, managing grease, or protecting your griddle from the elements. This is why understanding which accessories truly add value – and avoiding the temptation to buy every flashy gadget – is paramount. While some brands might encourage overspending, focusing on functionality, durability, and user reviews will guide you towards smart investments that genuinely enhance your griddle’s performance and extend its lifespan. Don’t fall prey to FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) and fill your cart blindly. A little research goes a long way in finding top-rated, often more affordable alternatives from businesses dedicated to quality.

Top 15 Essential Blackstone Griddle Accessories You Need

While convenient, multi-piece accessory kits (like a 30-piece Blackstone kit for $100 or a 20-piece off-brand kit for $36) might include tools you don’t truly need or prefer. A more satisfying approach is to thoughtfully curate your own collection, selecting individual items based on quality, reviews, and personal preference. This allows for a better budget allocation and a deeper appreciation for each tool. Remember, outdoor cooking is about escaping the hustle of daily life, so take your time and build your perfect griddle toolkit.

Here are 15 Blackstone accessories to start your collection, enhancing your cooking experience and maintaining your griddle:

1. Silicone Griddle Mat to Protect Your Ground Surface

Before you even fire up your new Blackstone, ensure the area beneath and around it is protected. Griddle cooking, while incredibly fun, can also be quite messy. Splattering grease, stray food particles, and occasional spills are inevitable. A high-quality silicone griddle mat acts as a crucial barrier, safeguarding your deck, patio, or garage floor from stains and damage. I highly recommend a mat large enough to extend at least a foot in front of the griddle, allowing you to stand on it while cooking. This provides extra protection against splashes and drips, catching everything from grease pops to pancake batter. Look for mats that are non-skid, fire-resistant, and easy to clean – a simple hose-down usually does the trick. Brands like Blackstone’s 48” x 32” silicone mat or Grilltex offer excellent coverage and durability, ensuring your cooking space remains pristine.

2. Easy Beezy Seasoning Push-Up Stick for Convenient Griddle Care

Proper seasoning is the foundation of a great non-stick griddle surface and protection against rust. While liquid oils work, a seasoning stick offers a unique and convenient application method. The Easy Beezy Seasoning Push-Up Stick is a popular choice, formulated with a blend of grapeseed oil, avocado oil, and organic beeswax. This hardened blend allows for precise application, making it easy to spread a thin, even layer across your griddle surface. A crucial tip for using any seasoning stick is to apply it when the griddle is cool or just slightly warm. Applying to a very hot surface will cause it to melt too quickly, resulting in uneven application and excessive product use. This stick format simplifies the seasoning process, contributing to a well-maintained and long-lasting cooking surface. We’ll explore seasoning techniques further in a dedicated post, but for now, this stick is a highly effective and easy-to-use option.

3. High-Performance Heat-Resistant Grilling Gloves

Safety is paramount when cooking at high temperatures. While Blackstone offers its own heat gloves, prioritizing functionality and superior heat resistance is key. Look for gloves that provide exceptional protection without sacrificing dexterity. My preferred Grill Armor Gloves, often found at Ace Hardware, are made with Kevlar, offering heat resistance up to 932 degrees Fahrenheit. This level of protection is crucial for safely handling hot griddle tools, cast iron pans, or even moving hot grates. Beyond heat resistance, good gloves should allow for comfortable movement, be durable enough to withstand regular use and washing, and maintain their condition over time. Investing in a reliable pair of heat-resistant gloves protects your hands and gives you confidence while maneuvering around a scorching hot griddle.

4. Convenient Magnetic Tool Holders for Organization

Keeping your essential griddle tools within easy reach and organized is a game-changer. Blackstone tool holder magnets offer a simple yet effective solution. These vibrant, magnetic spheres easily attach to the side of your griddle, providing stainless steel hooks to hang spatulas, scrapers, and other frequently used utensils. Their mobility allows you to position tools exactly where you need them most, reducing clutter on your side shelves and ensuring a smoother cooking process. Many sets come with a small tool rack that can attach to the back of your griddle, offering even more convenient storage while you cook. Not only do they keep your workspace tidy, but they also prevent tools from getting dirty by resting on surfaces or falling to the ground.

5. Versatile Three-Way Griddle Cleaning Tool

After a delicious meal, efficient cleanup is paramount for maintaining your griddle’s seasoned surface. A dedicated three-way cleaning tool is an invaluable asset. These multi-functional tools typically feature:

• A Scrubber: Often with replaceable scouring pads, for removing lighter residue and spreading cleaning solutions.
• A Pumice Brick/Stone: Ideal for tackling stubborn, caked-on food particles without damaging the griddle’s seasoning.
• A Scraper Blade: Designed to effectively push grease and food debris into the griddle’s grease trap. Look for a scraper blade that is long enough to cover a decent area without the other sides of the tool dragging on the surface.

While the Blackstone branded tool is decent, you might find more effective and budget-friendly alternatives on Amazon. A good cleaning tool significantly simplifies post-cook maintenance, making it a critical component of your griddle accessory kit.

6. Essential Griddle Spatulas (Yes, You Need More Than One!)

One of the first revelations for new griddle owners is the absolute necessity of having more than one spatula. Unlike traditional grilling where a single large spatula often suffices, griddle cooking often requires simultaneous manipulation of multiple food items or different techniques. A high-quality set of griddle spatulas is indispensable. Consider a set like the popular Anmarko set, which often includes:

• Two Stainless Steel Spatulas: One typically longer for easy flipping of larger items, and another with beveled or sharp edges for precise chopping, dividing, and turning. Wood handles offer a comfortable, heat-resistant grip.
• A Scraper/Chopper: A robust scraper tool, often with a measuring rule, is perfect for portioning food directly on the griddle and for pushing debris into the grease trap. This is often more effective and durable than the scraper on a multi-tool cleaner.

Learning to wield two spatulas simultaneously will transform your griddle cooking, making flipping, chopping, and managing large quantities of food effortless. Always exercise caution to avoid burns when working with hot griddle surfaces and sharp tools.

7. The Practical Griddle Tool Caddy for Portability and Organization

With an expanding collection of griddle accessories, you’ll quickly realize the need for an efficient way to store and transport them. A griddle tool caddy is an excellent solution, especially if you enjoy griddling on the go for camping trips, tailgates, or picnics. These caddies are designed for convenience, often featuring:

• Removable Handles: For easy carrying.
• Multiple Pockets: Perfect for organizing spice bottles, squeeze bottles, and smaller utensils.
• Durable Construction: With 360-degree webbing and a waterproof base to protect your tools and contents.
• Spacious Interior: Large enough to hold spatulas, cleaning tools, presses, and more.

Blackstone offers options like the Adventure Ready Tool Bag, but even a simple 5-gallon plastic bucket can serve as a budget-friendly alternative for easy carry and storage. The goal is to keep your tools organized, protected, and ready for your next culinary adventure, wherever it may take you.

8. Achieve Perfect Results with a Quality Grill Press

For crispy smash burgers, perfectly pressed paninis, or flat, evenly cooked bacon, a grill press is indispensable. This simple tool applies even pressure to food, ensuring consistent contact with the hot griddle surface. The result is a beautiful sear, a crispy crust, and faster cooking times. Cast iron grill presses, like the Blackstone Extra Large Griddle Press or the Big Green Egg cast iron press, are highly recommended for their heat retention and durability. Look for features like a cool-grip spiral handle for comfortable and safe use. Beyond burgers and bacon, a press can also prevent ham from curling, help achieve perfect sears on steaks, and even press down tortillas for quesadillas. It’s a versatile piece of cookware that significantly enhances specific griddle techniques.

9. Essential Squirt Bottles for Oil and Water

Liquid management is a cornerstone of successful griddle cooking. Therefore, a pair of reliable squeeze bottles is a must-have accessory.

• Oil Bottle: One clear plastic bottle should be dedicated to your preferred cooking oil, such as canola, avocado, or grapeseed oil. Oil is fundamental for lubricating the griddle surface, preventing food from sticking, and facilitating that effortless glide of ingredients. It’s how you kickstart almost every griddle adventure.
• Water Bottle: The second bottle is for water. Water is invaluable for steaming vegetables, melting cheese under a basting dome, and crucially, for deglazing and assisting in the griddle cleaning process.

While Blackstone offers its own versions, don’t hesitate to “cross-brand” if you find other options that suit your needs better, such as Weber’s squirt bottles which might offer a preferred size or design. The key is functionality and convenience, and this is an accessory where you can easily find affordable options without sacrificing quality.

10. Disposable Grease Cup Liners for Easy Cleanup

Managing grease is an inevitable part of griddle cooking, and proper disposal is crucial for hygiene and preventing pests. Your Blackstone griddle typically comes with a rear-mounted grease trap. To make cleanup effortless, you will frequently go through disposable aluminum grease cup liners. Blackstone sells these liners in convenient 10-packs, making them an easy grab-and-go item for your cart. Simply place a fresh liner in the grease cup before cooking, and once it’s full or after a significant cook, remove and discard it. This simple accessory significantly reduces the mess and time involved in cleaning your grease management system, ensuring your griddle stays cleaner with minimal effort.

11. Versatile Silicone Egg Rings for Perfect Portions

Silicone is a remarkably versatile material for griddle accessories due to its heat resistance, non-stick properties, and easy cleanup. Silicone egg rings are a fantastic example, allowing you to create perfectly round eggs, pancakes, omelets, and even sausage patties. A six-section egg ring tray saves space and time, making breakfast preparation a breeze. The non-stick nature of silicone ensures your food releases effortlessly, and cleanup is as simple as a quick wash. Beyond their primary use, these rings encourage culinary creativity, allowing you to experiment with various shapes and portion sizes for different griddle creations. If you have a favorite silicone accessory that has enhanced your griddle experience, share it in the comments!

12. Collapsible Silicone Basting Cover for Adventure-Ready Griddling

For those with a portable Blackstone griddle, or who enjoy taking their cooking on the road, a collapsible basting cover is an ingenious silicone accessory. Lightweight and designed for efficiency, a collapsible basting cover weighs just a pound and folds flat, making it incredibly easy to pack and store. Blackstone touts it as “a culinary camper’s best friend,” and its utility extends beyond just basting. It can be used to steam vegetables, melt cheese, or keep food warm. What makes it even more practical for travel is its dual function: after cooking, you can flip it over and use it as a serving bowl, reducing the number of dishes you need to carry or clean. This accessory perfectly embodies the spirit of adventure-ready griddling by offering convenience, versatility, and space-saving design.

13. The Indispensable Basting Dome for Enhanced Cooking

While a collapsible silicone cover is great for portability, a sturdy, traditional basting dome is a must-have for home griddle cooking, transforming your setup into a professional outdoor kitchen. The shape of the dome is crucial; a round dome ensures even distribution of steam and heat, which is vital for melting cheese uniformly, steaming vegetables, or ensuring thick burger patties cook through without drying out. Choose a dome large enough to comfortably cover your food items, with a diameter of at least one foot being suitable for an average 6-inch patty. For covering larger areas or multiple items, consider the size of your griddle hood; often, closing the hood can serve a similar purpose for bigger batches. I personally favor a durable Blackstone stainless-steel dome with a heat-resistant handle for its robustness and effectiveness in creating a mini-oven effect on the griddle surface, perfect for steaming and melting.

14. Flavor-Enhancing Seasonings for Your Food

Beyond the griddle seasoning stick for surface maintenance, don’t overlook the importance of seasonings for flavoring your actual food. A well-stocked spice cabinet is essential for any griddle enthusiast. Griddle cooking is incredibly versatile, lending itself to a vast array of cuisines and flavor profiles. Experiment with different blends to complement your meals. Whether it’s a bold steak rub, a savory chicken seasoning, or a zesty vegetable blend, the right spices elevate your dishes. While brands like Big Green Egg offer fantastic options such as their Signature Steakhouse blend (which pairs wonderfully with almost anything), Blackstone also provides an extensive collection of its own branded seasonings. Explore, taste, and find the blends that best suit your palate and culinary aspirations. These are the accessories that truly bring your food to life!

15. The Right Griddle Cover for Ultimate Protection and Longevity

Of all the accessories, a high-quality griddle cover is arguably the most crucial investment. This is one area where cutting corners will almost certainly lead to disappointment and potentially shorten the lifespan of your griddle. A durable cover protects your griddle from rain, snow, dust, debris, UV rays, and even small animals, preventing rust and preserving its seasoned surface. Unlike some flimsy covers on the market, the Blackstone brand covers often offer superior quality and fit, reflecting a better return on investment. As mentioned in our “20 Steps to Become a Standup Blackstone Griddle Owner” guide, when selecting a cover, pay attention to the material’s thickness, UV resistance, and overall construction. While a slightly oversized cover might seem like overkill, it provides better protection than one that is too snug or made of subpar material. Ensure it fits your specific griddle model (e.g., 28-inch or 36-inch) and offers full coverage, extending to the ground if possible, to shield the entire unit. A good cover is your griddle’s best defense against the elements, ensuring it remains in top condition for years of delicious cooking.

This list of 15 essential Blackstone accessories is designed to kickstart your griddle journey. As you gain experience, you’ll undoubtedly discover more tools and gadgets that enhance your specific cooking style. The key is to make smart, informed choices, prioritizing functionality, durability, and value. Whether you’re exploring new innovations from Blackstone, finding unique items on Facebook Marketplace, or even crafting your own solutions, the world of griddle accessories offers endless possibilities. Start with these essentials, build your collection thoughtfully, and enjoy the exciting culinary adventures that await on your Blackstone griddle!