Quick Summary:
Price: $899
Pros
- Expansive cooking surface allows for cooking multiple items simultaneously, perfect for large gatherings.
- Precise control over heat zones with three independent burners ensures even cooking and versatility.
- Quick and even heating thanks to the cold-rolled steel surface, providing consistent results.
- Integrated grease management system simplifies cleanup, making it easier to maintain the griddle.
- Foldable side shelves offer additional prep space and convenient storage options.
Cons
- Heavy and bulky, making it less portable and more challenging to move around.
- Higher price point compared to other griddles in the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
As someone who has spent countless hours behind a grill, both for personal enjoyment and entertaining friends and family, I was eager to test the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black. This isn't just any griddle; it’s designed for versatility, whether you’re searing steaks, cooking breakfast, or preparing a full meal for a crowd. Here, I’ll share what it’s been like to use the Flatrock, and offer some insight into its pros, cons, and how it fits into my outdoor cooking setup.
Why I Chose the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle
I’ve always leaned towards grills when cooking outdoors, but I decided to try a flat-top griddle like the Traeger Flatrock for a more flexible experience. Griddles allow for cooking foods that grills just can’t handle, like eggs, pancakes, or stir fry. With this in mind, I wanted to find a machine that could offer the control and space I needed to make a variety of meals, and the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black seemed to check all the boxes. It promised even heat distribution, good temperature control, and a grease management system—features that were high on my list of priorities.
Setup and First Use of the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle
After unboxing the griddle, I was pleased with how easy it was to assemble. It took me about 45 minutes to get it fully set up, which included attaching the legs, hooking up the propane, and ensuring everything was level. The black finish and robust materials immediately stood out. I also appreciated the griddle's stability. This is a unit that’s meant to stay in place, perfect for a backyard where you don’t need to move it often.
Before my first cooking session, I seasoned the griddle surface. Like cast iron, flat-top griddles need seasoning to create a non-stick surface, which also helps improve the flavor of your food over time. The instructions provided by Traeger were easy to follow, and I found that once the seasoning was done, the cooking surface was slick and ready to go.
Heat Control and Cooking Zones: A Game Changer
One thing that sets the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black apart is its three distinct cooking zones. This allows for a lot of flexibility, especially when cooking different foods at the same time. I’ve had mornings where I’m making bacon and eggs on one side while flipping pancakes on the other. Each burner can be adjusted independently, which means I can have one side on high heat for searing while keeping the other side cooler for more delicate items.
Even heat distribution is key with a griddle, and the Flatrock delivers in this area. I’ve used other griddles that had cold spots or uneven heating, but with this model, I didn’t notice any significant differences in temperature across the cooking surface. It’s perfect for cooking large quantities, as everything cooks at the same pace.
Versatility: What You Can Cook with the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
The versatility of this griddle is what has made it a favorite in my outdoor kitchen. While traditional grills are excellent for steaks, burgers, and BBQ, the flat-top griddle opens up a whole new world of possibilities. I’ve used it to make everything from breakfast spreads with eggs, hash browns, and pancakes to dinner options like stir-fry, fajitas, and grilled sandwiches. One evening, I even made smash burgers, and the griddle gave them a perfect, crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy.
The Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black also has enough space to feed a large group. With a cooking surface of about 594 square inches, I was able to cook for a party of 8 with ease. No more waiting in batches like with a smaller grill.
Durability and Maintenance
This griddle feels like it’s built to last. The materials are heavy-duty, and after several months of use, it shows no signs of wear and tear. I leave it outside under a cover when not in use, and it has handled rain, wind, and the elements well. The griddle surface itself still looks pristine after multiple cook sessions, as long as I take the time to clean and maintain it properly.
Speaking of cleaning, the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black makes post-cooking cleanup straightforward. The grease management system is effective at catching drips and runoff. The removable grease tray is easy to slide out, dump, and clean, saving me from the hassle of scraping out grease buildup. For the surface itself, I simply scrape it down with a metal spatula while it’s still hot, then wipe it with a damp cloth. I make sure to re-oil it after each cleaning to maintain the seasoning.
How the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black Compares to Other Grills
While I still use my traditional grill for certain dishes, the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black has quickly become my go-to for many meals. The ability to cook a wider range of foods—especially breakfast or stir-fry dishes—gives it an edge over a standard grill. I also find that it offers more precise control over temperature, which helps when cooking foods that require delicate heat adjustments.
That said, if you’re someone who’s mostly focused on grilling steaks or smoking meats, you might find a grill or smoker better suited to your needs. This griddle is more of a complement to those cooking methods rather than a replacement. But if you’re like me and want to expand your outdoor cooking repertoire, the Flatrock is an excellent addition to your setup.
What Could Be Improved
While I’m overall pleased with the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black, there are a couple of things that could be improved. One issue is its size. While the large surface is great for cooking lots of food at once, the griddle itself is bulky and difficult to move around. Even with the wheels, I find it cumbersome to shift around the patio. If you’re short on space or plan on storing it indoors, this could be a consideration.
Additionally, while the heat distribution is generally even, it can take some time to figure out the right settings for different foods. This isn’t so much a flaw of the product as it is part of the learning curve with any new piece of equipment, but it’s worth noting if you’re new to griddles.
Conclusion
The Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black has quickly become a staple in my outdoor cooking setup. It’s versatile, easy to use, and built to last. Whether you’re cooking breakfast for the family, searing up a batch of burgers, or preparing a stir fry for a party, this griddle delivers the performance you need. It does have a bit of a learning curve and may be more suited for those who plan to make use of the large cooking surface, but overall, I’ve been incredibly happy with it.
If you’re looking to expand beyond traditional grilling and want a high-quality, durable griddle, I can definitely recommend the Traeger Flatrock as a solid option for your outdoor cooking needs.
FAQ: Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
Q: What type of fuel does the Traeger Flatrock use?
A: The Traeger Flatrock uses liquid propane as its fuel source, which connects via a standard propane tank.
Q: How large is the cooking surface?
A: The griddle has a cooking surface of 594 square inches, providing ample space for large meals.
Q: Does the griddle require seasoning before use?
A: Yes, the griddle top needs to be seasoned before its first use to create a non-stick surface and enhance cooking performance.
Q: Can I use different temperatures across the cooking surface?
A: Yes, the griddle has three independently controlled burners, allowing for different temperature zones to cook a variety of foods simultaneously.
Q: How does the grease management system work?
A: The Flatrock is equipped with an efficient grease management system that channels drippings into a removable grease tray, making cleanup easier.
Q: Is the Traeger Flatrock portable?
A: While it has wheels for easier movement, the griddle is relatively heavy and bulky, so it's best suited for backyard use rather than portable cooking.
Q: How does the Traeger Flatrock handle heat distribution?
A: The griddle is designed to distribute heat evenly across the surface, reducing the risk of hot spots and ensuring consistent cooking.
Q: What kind of meals can be cooked on the Traeger Flatrock?
A: The griddle is versatile, allowing you to cook everything from breakfast foods (like pancakes and eggs) to dinner options such as stir-fries, burgers, and steaks.
Q: How easy is it to clean the Traeger Flatrock?
A: The griddle is easy to clean with a scraper and water after cooking, and the removable grease tray simplifies post-cooking maintenance.
Q: Is the Traeger Flatrock weather resistant?
A: The griddle is built with durable materials to withstand outdoor conditions, but it’s recommended to use a cover to protect it from the elements when not in use.