Comprehensive review of the Pit Boss 4-Burner Gas Griddle for outdoor cooking

Description

Design and Build Quality

I have to say, the Pit Boss 10962 4-Burner Gas Griddle immediately impressed me with its sturdy construction and thoughtful design. The alloy steel frame feels incredibly durable, and the powder-coated black finish not only looks sleek but seems to hold up well against outdoor elements. The fold-and-go design is a game-changer for anyone who needs to move their griddle around, whether it’s from the backyard to the garage or to a camping site. The addition of four caster wheels makes mobility effortless, and these wheels lock securely to keep the griddle stable when in use.

With dimensions of 24.8″D x 38.5″W x 35.2″H, it feels like the perfect balance between portability and having enough cooking space. Speaking of size, the 753 square inches of cooking surface is nothing short of impressive. I’ve cooked for family barbecues, neighborhood gatherings, and even just for myself, and the space never felt cramped. The 4.7mm thick griddle surface distributes heat evenly, which is something I deeply appreciate when trying to cook multiple items at once.

Heating Power and Performance

This griddle’s 62,000 BTU output is no joke. The four separately controlled gas burners allow for precise temperature control, which is incredibly useful when cooking a variety of foods simultaneously. I’ve used it to make pancakes, eggs, bacon, burgers, and even stir-fried vegetables, and the results were consistently excellent. The push-and-turn ignition system works like a charm, firing up the burners without any hassle.

One of my favorite features is how quickly the griddle heats up. The burners are powerful enough to reach ideal cooking temperatures in just a few minutes, and the low-pressure regulator ensures a steady flame throughout the cooking process. Whether I’m searing steaks or slow-cooking chicken, the performance has been reliable and efficient.

Key Benefits

• Large cooking area: Perfect for feeding a crowd without needing to cook in multiple batches.
• Efficient heat distribution: The thick griddle surface ensures even cooking.
• Versatile burners: The ability to control each burner individually is ideal for cooking different types of food simultaneously.
• Portability: The foldable legs and caster wheels make moving the griddle a breeze.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Cooking on this griddle is a breeze, and cleaning it afterward is surprisingly manageable, thanks to the EZ Access grease management system. The front-access grease trap collects drippings effectively, and removing and emptying it is quick and mess-free. I personally appreciate this feature because cleaning up after a big meal is usually the most dreaded part of outdoor cooking.

Assembly was straightforward, although I’d recommend having a second pair of hands to make the process smoother. The included grill cover adds a layer of protection when the griddle is not in use, though I wish it came with a lid for the cooking surface itself.

Areas for Improvement

• No lid included: A lid would enhance versatility, especially for steaming or keeping food warm.
• Weight: At 9.99 pounds, it’s portable for short distances, but carrying it for longer stretches could be cumbersome.
• Propane only: While propane is convenient, having a natural gas conversion option would be a nice touch.

Competing Brands

Comparing this griddle to other popular options, I found that it holds its own against higher-end models like the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle. While the Blackstone offers a similar cooking area and burner configuration, the Pit Boss griddle’s fold-and-go design and caster wheels give it an edge in portability. On the flip side, Blackstone includes a built-in lid, which I admittedly missed with the Pit Boss.

Versus the Camp Chef Flat Top Grill, the Pit Boss 4-Burner Griddle provides a more compact and portable solution, though the Camp Chef’s modular design allows for additional accessories like grill grates. Both have excellent heat distribution, but the Pit Boss grease management system feels more intuitive and easier to clean.

Bang for the Buck

When looking at the price-to-quality ratio, this griddle offers fantastic value. It delivers reliable performance, durable construction, and a cooking surface large enough for most occasions, all without feeling overpriced. While there are cheaper models on the market, they often lack the sturdiness and heat output of this griddle. Meanwhile, more expensive options may include extra bells and whistles, but they don’t necessarily outperform this one in essential functions.

If you’re someone who loves hosting outdoor cookouts or simply enjoys the versatility of a griddle, this product feels worth every penny. It balances quality, convenience, and performance in a way that’s tough to beat in its class.

Every time I fire it up, it feels like a worthy investment in the art of outdoor cooking.

Additional information