Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Smoker MB20051316 Review Perfect for Flavorful Outdoor Cooking

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ Smoker (Model MB20051316) immediately caught my eye with its sleek black alloy steel exterior. It stands tall and sturdy at 53 inches high, with a spacious vertical design that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly practical. The four chrome-coated smoking racks offer a whopping 960 square inches of cooking space, which is perfect for hosting family gatherings or even small neighborhood cookouts. I’ve loaded it up with everything from racks of ribs to whole turkeys, and it handles the weight like a champ. The lockable door latch ensures that heat and smoke stay locked inside, which is a crucial feature when you’re trying to maintain consistent temperatures.

Though the smoker is solidly constructed, its 92-pound weight does make it a bit of a challenge to move around. However, its durability and fully insulated body left me reassured that it’s built to last. The removable water bowl and woodchip tray also make it easy to clean, which is a huge plus for someone like me who dreads post-cook cleanup.

Ease of Use

Using this smoker is a breeze, even for a beginner like my neighbor who borrowed it once for a backyard BBQ. The ignition button is incredibly convenient, allowing you to light the propane fuel with just a push. No more fussing around with matches or lighters. The adjustable temperature dial is straightforward and makes it easy to set your desired smoking temperature. I tested it with different kinds of meat, and the ThermoTemp technology consistently kept the heat even throughout the cooking process.

One of my favorite features is the adjustable air damper, which gives you control over the amount of smoke circulating inside. This is a game-changer when you want to experiment with different levels of smokiness. The window in the smoker is another thoughtful addition, as it lets you monitor your food without constantly opening the door and losing heat.

Key Benefits

• 960 square inches of cooking space accommodates large quantities of food.
• ThermoTemp technology ensures consistent temperature control.
• Adjustable air damper allows for precise smoke regulation.
• The ignition button simplifies the fuel-lighting process.

Disadvantages

• At 92 pounds, it’s not the easiest smoker to move around.
• The temperature dial markings could be more detailed for fine adjustments.
• The window sometimes fogs up, making it challenging to see the food clearly during long smokes.

Performance and Cooking Results

This smoker doesn’t just look good; it performs exceptionally well. I’ve tried smoking salmon, brisket, pork shoulder, and even a holiday ham, and the results have been consistently impressive. The woodchip tray is easy to access and adds a rich, smoky flavor to the food. I love how the removable water bowl keeps the meat moist while also catching drippings, making cleanup less daunting.

What really sets this smoker apart is its ability to maintain temperatures up to 375°F. Whether I was doing a low-and-slow smoke or cranking up the heat for a quicker cook, the temperature stayed steady. I did notice, however, that during extremely windy days, the smoker struggled slightly to hold its heat. This might be something to consider if you live in a particularly breezy area.

Challengers

Comparing this to other vertical propane smokers I’ve used, like the Dyna-Glo or Char-Broil models, the Masterbuilt smoker stands out for its ThermoTemp technology and extensive cooking space. The Dyna-Glo smoker, for instance, is known for its affordability, but it lacks the temperature consistency provided by the Masterbuilt. On the other hand, Char-Broil smokers often come with digital controls, which some may prefer over the analog dial of the Masterbuilt. However, I personally find the analog temperature control more intuitive and less prone to malfunction.

Where the Masterbuilt has a slight edge is the window and the lockable door latch, which ensure better heat retention and visibility compared to competitors. Still, the heavier design might deter those who value portability.

True Value

This smoker offers excellent value for its price, considering the features and cooking capacity. While there are cheaper options on the market, they often come with compromises in build quality or temperature control. The Masterbuilt strikes a balance between durability, ease of use, and performance, making it worth the investment if you’re serious about your smoking game.

I’d say it’s a smart buy for anyone looking to level up their outdoor cooking setup. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just someone who loves experimenting with flavors, this smoker delivers results that justify its cost. Plus, the spacious design means you can cook for a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Additional information