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 an avid outdoor cooking enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for equipment that enhances my grilling experience. The Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black caught my attention due to its promise of versatility and performance. In this review, I will delve into its design, performance, ease of use, and overall value based on my personal experience.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that struck me about the Traeger Flatrock was its robust construction. Weighing in at 189 pounds, this griddle is built to last. The 33-inch wide and 18-inch deep cooktop offers a generous 594 square inches of cooking space, ample for preparing meals for family and friends.
The griddle features a sleek black finish that not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also provides durability against the elements. The side shelves are foldable, offering additional prep space when needed and allowing for compact storage when not in use. I really appreciated this feature as I have limited space in my outdoor kitchen, and being able to fold the shelves down when not in use makes storage much easier.
Performance of the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
When it comes to performance, the Traeger Flatrock truly excels. The three U-shaped burners ensure even heat distribution across the cooking surface, allowing for consistent cooking results. I’ve tested this by cooking everything from pancakes to steaks, and each dish came out as expected, with no hotspots or uneven cooking. The griddle heated up quickly, reaching temperatures up to 600°F, which is perfect for searing meats or quickly cooking stir-fried vegetables.
During my testing, I cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, I made eggs, bacon, and hash browns all at once. The heat zones were excellent, and everything cooked at the same time without any hiccups. I could place the bacon on one side and eggs on the other without worrying about them mixing or burning.
Ease of Use with the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
Operating the Traeger Flatrock is straightforward. The electronic ignition system allows for quick and reliable startup, meaning I didn’t have to fuss with matches or lighter fluid. I found this feature particularly useful, as I often find myself cooking in the mornings when I don’t want to deal with complicated startup processes.
The intuitive control knobs made adjusting the heat easy. I was able to change the temperature on each burner individually, giving me more flexibility in how I cooked different dishes at the same time. One of the other nice touches is the fuel gauge, which lets you see exactly how much propane you have left. It’s a small thing, but it definitely saves me from those frustrating moments when you run out of gas mid-cookout.
Another feature that I really liked is the grease management system. The griddle has a built-in channel that directs excess grease to a removable cup, making cleanup significantly easier. After cooking a big breakfast, I could easily dispose of the grease without any mess or fuss.
Versatility of the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
One of the standout features of the Traeger Flatrock is its versatility. The flat-top design allows for a wide range of cooking techniques, from searing steaks to preparing delicate pancakes. With three independent burners, I can set different temperatures on each side of the griddle, which is perfect for preparing multiple dishes at once.
For example, I’ve used one side of the griddle to sear some chicken while using the other side to sauté vegetables for a stir fry. It was so convenient to have everything cooking in one place, and the heat zones allowed me to manage everything without overcooking or burning anything.
The versatility is also evident when making breakfast. I love to make large batches of pancakes and bacon at the same time, and the Traeger Flatrock handled both perfectly. It’s this flexibility that has made it my go-to outdoor cooking equipment for everything from family gatherings to casual weekend meals.
Portability and Storage of the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
Despite its substantial size, the Traeger Flatrock is designed with mobility in mind. The four heavy-duty wheels make it easy to move around your patio or transport to different locations for outdoor gatherings. This is especially useful if you plan on moving the griddle from one area of your backyard to another or if you like to take it to camping trips or tailgates.
It’s important to note that, while the griddle is portable, it’s not lightweight. At 189 pounds, it’s not something you can just pick up and carry, but the wheels make moving it around much easier than I initially expected.
For storage, the foldable side shelves are a real game-changer. I’ve used a lot of outdoor cooking equipment that takes up too much space, but with the Traeger Flatrock, I can simply fold the shelves down when I’m done cooking, saving space in my garage. The griddle’s compact design also fits well in smaller spaces, though it does take up more room than a traditional grill, so I recommend having a designated storage spot for it.
Cooking Techniques I've Tried with the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
I’ve had the chance to experiment with several different cooking techniques, and I’ve been impressed with the results. The flat-top griddle offers a unique cooking experience compared to traditional grills, and I’ve enjoyed discovering how versatile it can be.
For example, I’ve used the griddle to prepare a full breakfast spread. I placed bacon on one side, eggs in the middle, and hash browns on the other. The heat distribution was perfect, and I didn’t have to worry about moving things around too much. The result? Crispy bacon, perfectly cooked eggs, and golden-brown hash browns.
For dinner, I decided to try cooking a stir-fry. The three separate cooking zones made it easy to sauté vegetables on one side while cooking rice on the other. Again, everything came out just right, and I didn’t need to flip between cooking pans or worry about the temperature inconsistencies that can sometimes occur with traditional grills.
Flavor and Texture of Food Cooked on the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black
The flavor and texture of the food cooked on the Traeger Flatrock are excellent. The even heat distribution ensures that meats are seared beautifully, locking in juices and enhancing the natural flavors. I’ve cooked steaks, burgers, and chicken on the griddle, and the results have been consistently great. The meat cooks evenly, achieving that nice caramelized crust while staying juicy on the inside.
Vegetables also come out with a delightful char, retaining their natural crispness. The griddle offers just the right amount of heat to cook them thoroughly without turning them mushy, which is a common issue when grilling vegetables.
For breakfast, pancakes and eggs cook evenly without sticking, thanks to the griddle’s non-stick surface. The pancakes come out fluffy and golden, while the eggs are perfectly cooked with just the right texture.
Conclusion
Overall, the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black has been a fantastic addition to my outdoor cooking setup. From its sturdy build to its excellent heat distribution and versatile cooking capabilities, it has proven to be a reliable and enjoyable cooking tool. Whether you’re preparing a simple breakfast or a multi-course meal, the griddle provides the space and control to get the job done.
While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, the value it offers in terms of performance, versatility, and ease of use makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys cooking outdoors. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing griddle that can handle everything from casual cookouts to more elaborate meals, the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black is certainly worth considering.
FAQ about the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle Black:
Q: What is the size of the cooking surface on the Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Outdoor Griddle?
A: The Traeger Flatrock features a 33-inch wide by 18-inch deep cooking surface, offering 594 square inches of cooking space.
Q: How many burners does the Traeger Flatrock have?
A: The Traeger Flatrock has three U-shaped burners, providing even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface.
Q: What is the maximum temperature the Traeger Flatrock can reach?
A: The Traeger Flatrock can reach temperatures of up to 600°F, making it perfect for searing meats or cooking at high temperatures.
Q: Is the Traeger Flatrock easy to assemble?
A: Yes, most users find that the Traeger Flatrock is relatively easy to assemble with clear instructions, though it may require some time due to its size.
Q: Does the Traeger Flatrock come with a grease management system?
A: Yes, the Traeger Flatrock includes a grease management system that channels excess grease into a removable cup for easy cleanup.
Q: Can I use the Traeger Flatrock for cooking different foods at the same time?
A: Absolutely! The three independent burners allow you to cook different foods at varying temperatures, making it ideal for preparing multiple dishes simultaneously.
Q: How easy is it to clean the Traeger Flatrock after use?
A: Cleaning the Traeger Flatrock is straightforward thanks to its grease management system. The griddle surface can be wiped down after use, and excess grease can be discarded from the removable cup.
Q: Can the Traeger Flatrock be used for outdoor events or tailgating?
A: Yes, the griddle is equipped with heavy-duty wheels, making it portable enough for outdoor events and tailgating, although it is on the heavier side.
Q: Is the Traeger Flatrock compatible with natural gas, or is it strictly for propane?
A: The Traeger Flatrock 3 Burner Liquid Propane Griddle is designed for use with liquid propane only. It is not compatible with natural gas unless you purchase a separate conversion kit.
Q: Does the Traeger Flatrock come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Traeger Flatrock typically comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, which may vary in length. Be sure to check the warranty details on Traeger’s website or with the retailer.