How Long to Cook Steaks on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is one of the easiest ways to achieve a flavorful crust and juicy interior. Unlike traditional grills that cook with open flames, a Blackstone flat-top griddle provides consistent heat across the entire cooking surface. This even heat allows steaks to cook quickly while developing a beautiful sear.

Whether you’re preparing ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin, knowing how long to cook steaks on a Blackstone is key to getting the perfect doneness. The cooking time depends mainly on steak thickness, griddle temperature, and your preferred level of doneness.

In this guide, you’ll learn the exact cooking times, temperature tips, and simple techniques that will help you cook steak perfectly on a Blackstone every time.

What Is a Blackstone Griddle?

A Blackstone griddle is a flat-top outdoor cooking surface powered by propane burners. Instead of traditional grill grates, it features a large steel cooking plate that distributes heat evenly across the surface.

Many outdoor cooking enthusiasts prefer a Blackstone for steak because it offers several advantages.

First, the flat surface allows the entire steak to make contact with the hot metal. This creates a rich, caramelized crust that locks in flavor.

Second, the griddle maintains steady heat across the cooking area. This helps steaks cook evenly without hot spots.

Finally, a Blackstone gives you plenty of room to cook side dishes such as onions, mushrooms, or potatoes alongside your steak.

Because of these benefits, the Blackstone griddle has become a favorite tool for backyard cooks who want restaurant-quality steaks at home.

Best Temperature to Cook Steaks on a Blackstone

The ideal temperature for cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is between 400°F and 450°F.

High heat is important because it creates the Maillard reaction. This chemical reaction forms the deep brown crust that gives steak its rich flavor.

If the griddle temperature is too low, the steak will cook slowly and may lose moisture before forming a crust.

How to Preheat a Blackstone for Steak

Follow these steps before cooking:

1. Turn on the burners and set them to medium-high heat.
2. Allow the griddle to preheat for about 10 minutes.
3. Add a small amount of oil to the cooking surface.
4. Spread the oil evenly using a spatula.

Once the griddle reaches high heat, you are ready to place your steaks on the surface.

How Long to Cook Steaks on a Blackstone

Steak cooking time depends mainly on thickness and preferred doneness.

Most steaks cook best when flipped once halfway through the cooking process.

Below are general guidelines for cooking times.

1-Inch Steak Cooking Time

A 1-inch steak is one of the most common cuts used for griddle cooking.

Rare:
3–4 minutes per side
Internal temperature: 120–125°F

Medium Rare:
4–5 minutes per side
Internal temperature: 130–135°F

Medium:
5–6 minutes per side
Internal temperature: 135–145°F

Medium Well:
6–7 minutes per side
Internal temperature: 145–155°F

Well Done:
7–8 minutes per side
Internal temperature: 160°F or higher

1.5-Inch Steak Cooking Time

Thicker steaks require a bit more time on the griddle.

Rare:
4–5 minutes per side

Medium Rare:
5–6 minutes per side

Medium:
6–7 minutes per side

Medium Well:
7–8 minutes per side

Well Done:
8–10 minutes per side

Because thicker steaks cook more slowly, using a meat thermometer is strongly recommended.

Quick Cooking Time Table

Doneness	Internal Temperature	Cooking Time (1-inch steak)
Rare	120–125°F	3–4 minutes per side
Medium Rare	130–135°F	4–5 minutes per side
Medium	135–145°F	5–6 minutes per side
Medium Well	145–155°F	6–7 minutes per side
Well Done	160°F+	7–8 minutes per side

This table provides a quick reference when cooking steaks on your Blackstone griddle.

Internal Temperature Guide for Steak Doneness

Cooking time can vary slightly depending on steak thickness and heat levels. For this reason, professional chefs rely on internal temperature rather than cooking time alone.

Here is a general temperature guide.

Rare
120–125°F
Bright red center with very soft texture.

Medium Rare
130–135°F
Warm red center and extremely juicy.

Medium
135–145°F
Pink center with balanced tenderness.

Medium Well
145–155°F
Slight pink center with firmer texture.

Well Done
160°F and above
Fully cooked with little or no pink.

Using a digital meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure perfect results.

Best Steaks to Cook on a Blackstone

Many steak cuts cook beautifully on a Blackstone griddle.

Ribeye

Ribeye steaks are rich and flavorful due to their high marbling. The fat melts on the hot griddle and enhances the crust.

New York Strip

This classic steak has a firm texture and bold beef flavor. It develops an excellent sear on a flat-top surface.

Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is incredibly tender and cooks quickly. It is perfect for high-heat griddle cooking.

Sirloin

Sirloin steaks are leaner and more affordable. They still produce excellent results when cooked correctly.

T-Bone and Porterhouse

These steaks combine two cuts in one strip steak and tenderloin. They cook well on a large Blackstone surface.

How to Prepare Steak Before Cooking

Proper preparation plays a major role in cooking the perfect steak.

Bring Steak to Room Temperature

Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30–40 minutes before cooking.

Allowing the steak to warm slightly helps it cook more evenly on the griddle.

Season the Steak

Simple seasoning works best.

Use:

• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

You can also add garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite steak rub for extra flavor.

Season both sides generously just before cooking.

Pat the Steak Dry

Moisture prevents a good sear.

Before placing the steak on the griddle, use paper towels to pat it dry. This step helps create the crisp crust that makes steak so delicious.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Steaks on a Blackstone

Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is simple when you follow the right steps.

1. Preheat the Griddle

Heat the Blackstone to 400–450°F for about 10 minutes.

2. Add Oil

Use a high smoke-point oil such as:

• Avocado oil
• Canola oil
• Vegetable oil

Spread the oil lightly across the surface.

3. Place the Steak on the Griddle

Lay the steak flat on the hot surface. You should hear an immediate sizzling sound.

This indicates the griddle is hot enough to form a proper crust.

4. Cook for the Recommended Time

Allow the steak to cook without moving it. This helps the crust develop.

5. Flip Once

After cooking the first side, flip the steak using tongs.

Avoid flipping repeatedly, as this can prevent proper searing.

6. Add Butter and Aromatics

For additional flavor, you can add:

• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh rosemary
• Thyme

Spoon the melted butter over the steak during the final minutes of cooking.

7. Check the Internal Temperature

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.

Remove the steak once it reaches your preferred doneness.

8. Let the Steak Rest

Rest the steak for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Steak on a Blackstone

Here are several expert tips that can improve your results.

Use a Meat Thermometer
Temperature is the most accurate way to judge doneness.

Do Not Press the Steak
Pressing the steak forces juices out and dries the meat.

Flip Only Once
Too many flips can prevent proper browning.

Use High-Smoke-Point Oils
Oils such as avocado or canola handle high heat without burning.

Allow the Steak to Rest
Resting ensures the juices stay inside the meat instead of running out when sliced.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks sometimes make simple mistakes when cooking steak.

Cooking at Low Heat

Steaks require high heat to form a proper crust. Low heat can result in gray, overcooked meat.

Overcrowding the Griddle

Too many steaks on the surface can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.

Skipping the Resting Period

Cutting the steak immediately after cooking allows juices to escape.

Not Drying the Steak

Moisture on the surface can prevent browning.

Avoiding these mistakes can dramatically improve your steak results.

Best Side Dishes for Blackstone Steak

A Blackstone griddle makes it easy to cook delicious sides alongside your steak.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Mushrooms cooked in butter and garlic pair perfectly with steak.

Griddle Onions

Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Potatoes cooked directly on the griddle develop a crispy exterior.

Grilled Asparagus

Asparagus cooks quickly and complements steak beautifully.

Steakhouse Salad

A fresh salad provides a refreshing balance to rich steak flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hot should a Blackstone be for steak?

The ideal temperature is 400°F to 450°F. This range provides enough heat to sear the steak properly.

Should you use oil when cooking steak on a Blackstone?

Yes. A small amount of oil prevents sticking and helps create a crisp crust.

How many times should you flip steak on a griddle?

Most chefs recommend flipping the steak once during cooking.

Can you cook frozen steak on a Blackstone?

It is possible, but thawing the steak first provides better texture and more even cooking.

Do you close the lid when cooking steak?

Blackstone griddles usually do not require a lid. Steaks cook best with direct heat from the flat-top surface.

Final Words

Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is a simple and rewarding experience. With the right temperature and cooking time, you can achieve a perfectly seared crust and tender interior every time.

For most steaks, cooking at 400°F to 450°F for about 4–6 minutes per side produces excellent results. Thicker steaks may require a few extra minutes, while thinner cuts cook faster.

By following the preparation tips, cooking times, and temperature guidelines in this guide, you can confidently cook restaurant-quality steaks on your Blackstone griddle right in your own backyard.