Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Smoker MB20051316 Review A Deep Dive Into Performance

Description

Unlocking Flavor with the Masterbuilt® 40-Inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker

Using the Masterbuilt® 40-Inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker (Model MB20051316) feels like stepping into the world of professional outdoor cooking without the hassle. As someone who’s no stranger to firing up the grill or smoker, I was eager to see how this vertical propane smoker stacked up against others. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot to love, but also some quirks worth mentioning.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this smoker immediately grabbed my attention. Standing tall at 53 inches, it has a sleek black finish and a sturdy alloy steel construction that feels solid right out of the box. The vertical layout is a game-changer for maximizing space—960 square inches of cooking real estate to be exact. I’ve managed to fit 16 chickens or 8 racks of ribs in one go, which is perfect for large gatherings or meal prep.

The four chrome-coated smoking racks are easy to slide in and out, though I did notice that cleaning them can be a bit of a chore if you’re dealing with sticky marinades. The adjustable air damper and lockable door latch are thoughtful touches that keep smoke and heat sealed in, ensuring consistent cooking. The inclusion of a window to monitor food is also handy, though it can fog up occasionally, making it less useful during longer sessions.

Performance and Temperature Control

What really sets this propane smoker apart is the ThermoTemp technology. Maintaining an even smoking temperature has always been a challenge with other models I’ve tried, but this one keeps things steady without constant babysitting. The adjustable temperature dial lets you set temps up to 375°F—a range suitable for everything from slow-smoked brisket to higher-heat cooks like turkey.

The push-button ignition makes starting up so simple, even my neighbor (who’s never touched a smoker before) managed to fire it up without issues. However, I did notice that on particularly windy days, the flame can flicker a bit, which might affect the temperature. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if your backyard is a wind tunnel like mine.

Key Benefits

• Ample cooking space: 960 square inches across four racks.
• Consistent temperature control thanks to ThermoTemp technology.
• Sturdy construction with a durable alloy steel exterior.
• Convenient features, like the lockable door and air damper.

Areas for Improvement

• Cleaning the racks can be tedious, especially after sticky or sugary marinades.
• The window fogs up, limiting its usefulness during long cooking sessions.
• Flame stability in windy conditions could use improvement.

Cooking Versatility and Options

The versatility of this smoker is what makes it a standout for me. I’ve smoked everything from a holiday ham to summertime salmon, and the results have been consistently rich in flavor. The removable water bowl not only adds moisture to the cooking process but also catches drippings, making cleanup slightly easier. Pair that with the woodchip tray, and you’ve got endless opportunities to infuse your meats with smoky goodness. Hickory, applewood, mesquite—you name it, I’ve thrown it in there.

The adjustable air damper gives you control over the intensity of the smoke. I’ve found that cracking it open just a bit creates the perfect balance for ribs, while keeping it nearly closed leads to that bold, smoky depth that makes brisket unforgettable.

Drawbacks

• Cleaning the racks: This can be time-consuming, especially for heavy cooks.
• Window visibility: The fogging issue can make food monitoring tricky.
• Wind sensitivity: The flame struggles slightly in breezy conditions.

Competing Products

This smoker sits in a competitive space, and I’ve tested a few alternatives. The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker, for example, is a popular charcoal option. While the Weber offers great smoke flavor, it lacks the “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience of the ThermoTemp’s propane system. On the other hand, the Pit Boss Vertical Gas Smoker has a similar propane setup, but it doesn’t quite match the Masterbuilt in terms of build quality and temperature consistency.

Where this smoker really shines is in its intuitive controls and spacious design. Some competitors might have slightly easier cleaning systems or more stable flames in the wind, but they often sacrifice capacity or temperature range. If you’re someone who values ease of use and cooking space above all, this model stands out.

Price Performance

In terms of cost efficiency, I’d say this smoker hits a sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the features and build quality justify the investment. For someone like me who smokes food regularly, the time saved by not having to constantly monitor the temperature alone makes it worth the price tag. Plus, the durability of the alloy steel body suggests it’s built to last, so you won’t be replacing it anytime soon.

If you’re on a budget, you might consider smaller or less feature-rich smokers. However, for those willing to spend a bit more for convenience and cooking capacity, this propane smoker delivers excellent value for the price.

Final Thoughts

Testing this smoker has been a flavorful journey. From the easy ignition system to the consistent temperature control, it’s clear that this product is designed with both beginners and seasoned smokers in mind. While it’s not without its flaws—like cleaning challenges and occasional flame flickers—it’s hard to argue with the sheer convenience and cooking results. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a smoked turkey for the holidays, this smoker will likely become your go-to outdoor companion.

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