How to Season a New Griddle
Seasoning your griddle is the most important thing you'll do before your first cook. It creates a polymerized oil layer that prevents rust, builds non-stick properties, and improves with every cook. Here's how to do it right the first time.
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Tools & Materials
- High-heat oil (flaxseed, avocado, or Crisco)
- Paper towels
- Heat-resistant gloves
Step by Step
Wash with soap (this is the only time)
Wash the cooking surface with warm soapy water to remove the factory coating. Rinse and dry completely. This is the ONLY time you should ever use soap on your griddle.
Heat on high until the surface darkens
Turn all burners to high. The surface will begin to discolor and smoke — this is the factory coating burning off. Let it go until the smoking stops and the surface turns dark brown/black.
Apply a thin layer of oil
Let it cool slightly, then apply a very thin layer of oil with paper towels. Thin is the key word — too much oil creates a sticky, gummy surface. You should barely see the oil.
Heat until it smokes and stops
Turn burners back to high. The oil will smoke as it polymerizes. Wait until the smoking stops — that means the oil has bonded to the steel.
Repeat 3-4 times
Apply another thin coat of oil and repeat the heating process 3-4 more times. Each layer builds the seasoning deeper. The surface should be dark and slightly glossy when done.
Cook something fatty for your first meal
Bacon is the traditional first cook — the fat renders and adds another seasoning layer. Cook a pound of bacon and your griddle will be off to a perfect start.
Warnings
- Never use olive oil for seasoning — its low smoke point creates a sticky, uneven surface.
- Don't apply too much oil. More is not better. Each coat should be wiped so thin it's almost invisible.
- Don't skip the initial factory coating burn-off — that coating is not food-safe.
How Often?
Initial seasoning once, then the surface builds naturally with each cook. Re-season if you see rust or bare metal spots.
Tools & Products You'll Need
Blackstone 36" Griddle $349
The griddle to season
Blackstone Griddle Seasoning Kit $15
Everything you need for first seasoning
Artisan Griller Heat-Resistant Gloves $16
Protect hands during seasoning
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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