Aldi Blackstone Copycat June Recipe Roundup: Griddle Greatness on a Budget

June is the perfect time to fire up the griddle and enjoy the warm weather with delicious, easy-to-make meals. If you’re looking for Blackstone-style recipes that won’t break the bank, Aldi is your go-to store. This article features a collection of copycat recipes utilizing affordable ingredients from Aldi, perfectly adapted for your Blackstone (or any flat-top griddle). We’ll cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert, providing detailed steps and instructions to ensure your griddle cooking experience is a success. Let’s dive in!

## Why Aldi for Blackstone Cooking?

Aldi has gained a reputation for offering high-quality groceries at incredibly competitive prices. This makes it an ideal place to stock up on ingredients for your Blackstone adventures. From fresh produce and meats to pantry staples and seasonings, you can find everything you need without emptying your wallet. Plus, Aldi often has seasonal specials that perfectly align with summer grilling trends.

## Essential Aldi Items for Griddle Cooking

Before we get into the recipes, here’s a quick rundown of some essential Aldi items to have on hand:

* **Oil:** Aldi’s olive oil and avocado oil are great for general cooking. For high-heat searing, consider coconut oil or refined peanut oil.
* **Butter:** Kirkwood brand butter is a staple for flavor and richness.
* **Spices and Seasonings:** Aldi’s spice aisle is surprisingly robust. Look for their garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
* **Meats:** Kirkwood chicken breasts, ground beef, and sausage are all excellent choices for griddle cooking. Don’t forget their bacon for breakfast and burger toppings!
* **Produce:** Aldi’s produce section offers fresh vegetables and fruits at unbeatable prices. Think onions, peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, and more.
* **Cheese:** Aldi’s cheese selection is impressive, ranging from cheddar and mozzarella to provolone and pepper jack.
* **Buns and Bread:** Aldi offers a variety of buns and bread, including burger buns, hot dog buns, and sandwich bread.
* **Condiments:** Stock up on ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and your favorite sauces.

## Recipe 1: Aldi Blackstone Copycat Smash Burgers

This classic burger recipe is a crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to make on the griddle. Aldi’s ground beef is perfect for this recipe.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb Aldi Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended)
* 4 Aldi Burger Buns
* 4 Slices Aldi Cheddar Cheese
* 1 Aldi White Onion, thinly sliced
* 4 Tablespoons Kirkwood Butter
* Aldi Ketchup
* Aldi Mustard
* Aldi Dill Pickles, sliced (optional)
* Salt and Pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Onion:** Heat a small amount of oil on one side of the griddle over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and softened, about 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Prepare the Meat:** Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a loose ball – avoid overworking the meat.
3. **Preheat the Griddle:** Heat the griddle to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s evenly heated across the surface.
4. **Smash the Burgers:** Place each beef ball on the hot griddle. Immediately use a sturdy spatula (ideally a smash burger press or a flat-bottomed spatula) to press down firmly on each ball, flattening it into a thin patty. The thinner the patty, the crispier the edges will be.
5. **Season and Cook:** Season the patties with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the edges are crispy and the patties are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
6. **Add Cheese:** During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
7. **Toast the Buns:** While the cheese is melting, spread butter on the insides of the burger buns. Place the buns butter-side down on the griddle and toast until golden brown and lightly crispy.
8. **Assemble the Burgers:** Spread ketchup and mustard on the toasted buns. Place a cheesy burger patty on the bottom bun, top with caramelized onions, and sliced pickles (if using). Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Crispy Edges:** For extra crispy edges, use a metal spatula to scrape the edges of the patty as it cooks.
* **Secret Sauce:** Create a simple secret sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a dash of paprika.
* **Different Cheese:** Experiment with other Aldi cheeses, such as provolone or pepper jack.
* **Add Bacon:** Cook Aldi’s bacon on the griddle and add a few slices to your burgers for extra flavor.

## Recipe 2: Aldi Blackstone Copycat Shrimp Fajitas

This flavorful and healthy fajita recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Aldi’s frozen shrimp is a budget-friendly option.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb Aldi Frozen Shrimp, thawed and peeled (Tail-on or tail-off, your preference)
* 1 Aldi Bell Pepper (any color), sliced
* 1 Aldi Onion, sliced
* 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 Packet Aldi Fajita Seasoning Mix
* 1/2 Cup Water
* Aldi Flour Tortillas
* Aldi Sour Cream (optional)
* Aldi Salsa (optional)
* Aldi Guacamole (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Heat olive oil on the griddle over medium heat. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp:** While the vegetables are cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
3. **Add Shrimp to the Griddle:** Push the vegetables to one side of the griddle. Add the shrimp to the open space and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the griddle; cook in batches if necessary.
4. **Season and Simmer:** Sprinkle the fajita seasoning mix over the shrimp and vegetables. Add the water and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Warm the Tortillas:** While the fajita mixture is simmering, warm the tortillas on the griddle for a few seconds per side, until pliable.
6. **Assemble the Fajitas:** Fill each tortilla with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Top with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole (if using). Serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Marinate the Shrimp:** For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and fajita seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
* **Add Black Beans or Corn:** Canned black beans or corn from Aldi can be added to the fajita mixture for extra texture and nutrients.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sliced jalapeno to the fajita mixture for extra heat.
* **Chicken or Beef:** Substitute the shrimp with Aldi’s Kirkwood chicken breasts (sliced) or thin slices of beef for a different flavor profile.

## Recipe 3: Aldi Blackstone Copycat Breakfast Quesadillas

Start your day with these cheesy and satisfying breakfast quesadillas. Aldi’s eggs and breakfast sausage are perfect for this recipe.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 Aldi Eggs
* 1/2 lb Aldi Breakfast Sausage, cooked and crumbled
* 1 Aldi Bell Pepper (any color), diced
* 1/2 Aldi Onion, diced
* 1 Cup Aldi Shredded Cheddar Cheese
* 6 Aldi Flour Tortillas
* 2 Tablespoons Kirkwood Butter
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Aldi Salsa (optional)
* Aldi Sour Cream (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Vegetables:** Heat a small amount of oil on the griddle over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Scramble the Eggs:** Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Cook the Eggs:** Pour the scrambled eggs onto the griddle and cook, stirring occasionally, until set but still slightly moist.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the cooked vegetables and crumbled sausage to the scrambled eggs and stir to combine.
5. **Assemble the Quesadillas:** Spread butter on one side of each tortilla. Place a tortilla, butter-side down, on the griddle. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, then top with the egg and sausage mixture. Sprinkle with more cheddar cheese and cover with another tortilla, butter-side up.
6. **Cook the Quesadillas:** Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to carefully flip the quesadillas.
7. **Serve:** Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream (if using).

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Spinach:** Sauté some Aldi spinach with the vegetables for added nutrients.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for extra heat.
* **Different Cheese:** Experiment with other Aldi cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini.

## Recipe 4: Aldi Blackstone Copycat Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

This simple and delicious dessert is a perfect way to end your griddle meal. Aldi’s pineapple is always a great deal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Aldi Pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
* 2 Tablespoons Kirkwood Butter, melted
* 2 Tablespoons Aldi Sugar
* 1 Teaspoon Aldi Cinnamon
* Aldi Vanilla Ice Cream (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pineapple:** Ensure the pineapple rings are dry. Pat them dry with paper towels if needed.
2. **Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:** In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
3. **Preheat the Griddle:** Heat the griddle to medium heat.
4. **Brush with Butter:** Brush both sides of the pineapple rings with melted butter.
5. **Grill the Pineapple:** Place the pineapple rings on the hot griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
6. **Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar:** Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the grilled pineapple rings.
7. **Serve:** Serve the grilled pineapple warm, topped with a scoop of Aldi vanilla ice cream (if using).

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add a Glaze:** Create a simple glaze by mixing pineapple juice, honey, and a pinch of ginger.
* **Serve with Yogurt:** Serve the grilled pineapple with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
* **Add Nuts:** Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as Aldi’s almonds or pecans, over the grilled pineapple.
* **Make it a Sundae:** Layer the grilled pineapple with ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce for a decadent sundae.

## Recipe 5: Aldi Blackstone Copycat Philly Cheesesteaks

This hearty and satisfying sandwich is a classic griddle dish. Aldi’s thinly sliced steak and provolone cheese are key to this recipe.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb Aldi Thinly Sliced Steak (Beef Shoulder or Sirloin)
* 2 Aldi Hoagie Rolls
* 1 Aldi Onion, thinly sliced
* 1 Aldi Bell Pepper (Green), thinly sliced
* 4 Slices Aldi Provolone Cheese
* 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Aldi Garlic Powder (optional)
* Aldi Mayonnaise (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Heat olive oil on the griddle over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder (if using).
2. **Cook the Steak:** Push the vegetables to one side of the griddle. Add the thinly sliced steak to the open space and cook, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the steak is browned and cooked through.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Once the steak is cooked, mix it with the cooked vegetables on the griddle.
4. **Melt the Cheese:** Divide the steak and vegetable mixture into two portions. Top each portion with two slices of provolone cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly.
5. **Prepare the Rolls:** Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise. You can lightly toast the rolls on the griddle if desired.
6. **Assemble the Cheesesteaks:** Using a spatula, carefully scoop each steak and cheese mixture into a hoagie roll. Add mayonnaise if desired.
7. **Serve:** Serve the Philly cheesesteaks immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Cheese Whiz:** For an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, use Aldi’s cheddar cheese sauce (heated) instead of provolone cheese.
* **Add Mushrooms:** Sauté some sliced Aldi mushrooms with the onions and peppers for extra flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak and vegetable mixture for extra heat.
* **Different Steak:** If you can’t find thinly sliced steak, you can slice a steak thinly yourself before cooking.

## Recipe 6: Aldi Blackstone Copycat Chicken Fried Rice

This classic takeout dish is easy and delicious to make on the griddle. Aldi’s pre-cooked rice and frozen vegetables make it even simpler.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 Cups Aldi Pre-Cooked Rice (Long Grain or Jasmine)
* 1 lb Aldi Kirkwood Chicken Breast, cooked and diced
* 1 Cup Aldi Frozen Mixed Vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
* 2 Aldi Eggs
* 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
* 1 Tablespoon Sesame Oil
* 1/2 Aldi Onion, diced
* 2 Cloves Aldi Garlic, minced
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Aldi Green Onions, sliced (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:** If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly and dice it into small pieces. You can cook it directly on the griddle beforehand.
2. **Cook the Vegetables:** Heat sesame oil on the griddle over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
3. **Scramble the Eggs:** Push the vegetables to one side of the griddle. Crack the eggs onto the open space and scramble them until cooked through. Chop the scrambled eggs into smaller pieces.
4. **Add Rice and Chicken:** Add the pre-cooked rice and diced chicken to the griddle. Stir to combine with the vegetables and scrambled eggs.
5. **Season and Stir-Fry:** Pour soy sauce over the mixture and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Shrimp or Pork:** Substitute the chicken with Aldi’s shrimp or diced pork for a different flavor profile.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
* **Different Vegetables:** Use other Aldi frozen vegetables, such as broccoli or edamame.
* **Add Sesame Seeds:** Sprinkle sesame seeds over the fried rice for added flavor and texture.

## Griddle Maintenance: Keeping Your Aldi Blackstone Copycat in Top Shape

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your griddle lasts for years. Here are a few tips:

* **Seasoning:** Regularly season your griddle with oil after each use to prevent rust and create a non-stick surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for initial seasoning.
* **Cleaning:** Scrape off food debris after each use with a metal spatula or scraper. For stubborn residue, use a griddle cleaning brick or pad.
* **Oiling:** After cleaning, lightly oil the griddle surface to protect it from rust.
* **Storage:** Store your griddle in a dry place, covered with a grill cover to protect it from the elements.

## Final Thoughts: Griddle Cooking on a Budget

With these Aldi Blackstone copycat recipes, you can enjoy delicious and affordable meals on your griddle all summer long. Aldi’s high-quality ingredients and low prices make it easy to create restaurant-quality dishes without breaking the bank. So fire up your griddle, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience griddle greatness on a budget!