Are you considering the Masterbuilt 1050 for your next grill, or looking to optimize your grilling game with it? In this review, we get straight to the meat of what makes the Masterbuilt 1050 a standout choice in digital charcoal grilling—its advanced features, versatile cooking options, and ease of use. We’ll cover everything from the innovative GravityFed™ charcoal hopper for consistent temperatures to how it performs for both quick searing and slow smoking, giving you a well-rounded picture of this grill’s capabilities.

Key Takeaways

The Masterbuilt 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill & Smoker incorporates innovative features such as a GravityFed charcoal hopper and digital control for precision heating, enhancing flavor and ease of use in grilling and smoking.
While assembly of the Masterbuilt 1050 may be complex for some, it offers a digital control board, Masterbuilt App connectivity, and versatility in cooking methods that enable high-heat searing and low and slow smoking with consistent results.
The Masterbuilt 1050 boasts a large cooking space, robust design, and quality construction, but users must manage temperature variances across the grill. Maintenance is crucial, with regular cleaning and optional accessories available to enhance the grilling experience.

Masterbuilt 1050: Kicking Off a Charcoal Grilling Revolution

Meet the Masterbuilt 1050, the game-changer in charcoal grilling that's making the whole smoking and grilling process a breeze while cranking up the performance big time. This isn't your grandpa's grill. The Masterbuilt 1050 is all about ditching those old-school hassles. No more endless fanning of flames or stressing over how far to open the vents. Thanks to its rock-solid heat control and awesome smoke vibes, getting that perfect smoky flavor just got a whole lot easier.

This grill nails the temperature control, meaning your food gets that unique smoky taste that'll have everyone coming back for seconds. The Masterbuilt 1050 isn't just about making grilling less of a chore; it's about upping your food game with flavors that'll blow your mind.

Gravity Series Technology

At the heart of the Masterbuilt 1050 magic is a new grilling experience with its innovative GravityFed charcoal hopper, a key component of the groundbreaking Gravity Series technology. Say goodbye to the uncertainty of charcoal management—this advanced hopper delivers consistent temperature control for all your grilling needs.

Capable of holding enough charcoal for up to 8 hours of continuous grilling, it's perfect for those marathon BBQ sessions. Need to heat up quickly? The grill's efficient design reaches 225°F in just about 7 minutes and can soar to 700°F for rapid searing. Integrated with a smart fan system, the grill automatically adjusts airflow to the charcoal based on the desired temperature and the grill's current internal temperature, ensuring your grilling results are always on point.

Digital Control Board & The Masterbuilt App

It's got a digital control board that's all about keeping things easy. Set your temp, and you're good to grill. Plus, with the Masterbuilt app, you can take control from your phone. Whether you're chilling with guests or prepping sides, you can keep an eye on your grill without being glued to it. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth mean you're always connected, letting you adjust temps or monitor your meat's progress from anywhere. With the DigitalFan™ tech and an integrated meat probe thermometer, you're looking at precision grilling.

Pros of the Masterbuilt 1050

Versatility in Cooking Methods: Whether you're looking to sear at high temperatures or indulge in the low and slow smoking technique, the Masterbuilt 1050 caters to all your culinary desires.
Stable Temperature Control: One of the standout features is its ability to maintain a consistent temperature, giving you the control you need for perfect results every time.
Large Cooking Capacity: Hosting a big BBQ bash? No problem. The Masterbuilt 1050 boasts a generous cooking area, allowing you to cook for a crowd with ease.

Cons of the Masterbuilt 1050

Complex Assembly Process: New users might find the assembly a bit daunting due to the number of components and steps involved. However, this is often a one-time hurdle that can be overcome with patience and careful attention to the instructions.
Getting the charcoal lit can be tricky. A small torch is the easiest way to get the charcoal to ignite.

Versatility in Cooking Methods

The versatility of the Masterbuilt 1050 in terms of cooking methods is a standout feature. Equipped with reversible cast iron grates, it provides the capability to create bold sear marks and sizzle juices for added flavor, perfect for high-heat searing. If low and slow smoking is more your style, a combination of wood chunks and charcoal in the Masterbuilt 1050 can infuse a robust flavor to your meats. Options like hickory or mesquite are recommended for a balanced smoke flavor.

The Masterbuilt 1050 doesn’t stop there; it also offers the option for cold smoking. By using lighter smoke woods such as apple, cherry, maple, and alder, and minimal charcoal, you can infuse smoky flavor without cooking foods like meats, fish, seafood, eggs, and cheese. The precise temperature control is essential for optimizing high heat searing to prevent food from drying out or burning, as well as for maintaining cooler temperatures during delicate processes like smoking cheese.

Design and Build Quality

In addition to high performance, the Masterbuilt 1050 also excels in design and build quality. The grill features stainless steel front and side shelves, offering convenient additional space for food preparation.

In addition, it comes equipped with two porcelain-coated warming racks, efficiently maintaining the food warm during the cooking process, providing additional food preparation space.

Cooking Space and Capacity

One of the standout features of the Masterbuilt 1050 is its cooking space. Offering 1050 square inches of cooking space, the grill allows for the simultaneous cooking of large quantities of food. This feature is for those who love hosting big cookouts or family gatherings, as it ensures everyone gets to enjoy the food hot and fresh.

However, it’s essential to note that temperature variances are present across the cooking space, with the right grate maintaining a temperature closer to the set-point than the left grate.

Vertical Charcoal Hopper

Another design feature worth noting is the vertical charcoal hopper. With a capacity to accommodate up to 4.5 kg of lump charcoal or 7 kg (15.43 lbs) of briquettes, it provides sufficient fuel for extended cooking sessions.

It’s important to note that for safety and proper functioning, you should not use fast-light charcoal or lighting fluid. The design of the hopper allows for optimal air flow, crucial for consistent temperature and performance.

https://www.masterbuilt.com/products/gravity-series-1050-digital-charcoal-grill-smoker

Meat Probe Thermometer

No grilling experience would be complete without a tool to ensure the perfect cooking temperature for your food. That’s where the built-in meat probe thermometer comes in. This feature ensures accurate cooking temperatures, leading to great reliable results.

The Masterbuilt Gravity Series Meat Probe allows the addition of up to four meat probe thermometers to the grill for precise cooking of a variety of foods. To maintain the accuracy of the meat probe thermometer, it’s necessary to scrape the heat manifold to remove grease and food buildup, clean the temperature probe with mild dish detergent, and monitor meat probes regularly.

Assembly

The Masterbuilt 1050 comes with several components that need to be assembled, including the body, hopper, and digital fan.

The Masterbuilt 1050 grill has a comprehensive assembly process comprising 32 steps. Special attention is needed when installing the hopper to ensure it is properly aligned and secured. Although some users may find the assembly process for the Masterbuilt 1050 grill grueling due to its complexity and number of steps, it’s essential to note that the provided instructions are clear and facilitate the assembly process.

No special tools are necessary to assemble the Masterbuilt 1050 grill; it can be put together using common household tools, making the process more accessible.

First Cook Tips

The first cook with the Masterbuilt 1050 is a special experience, and there are a few tips that can make it even better. To begin cooking, start by removing the heat intake and air intake slides from the GravityFed™ Charcoal Hopper, and ensure leftover charcoal is shaken out and ash discarded.

To start your grill, follow these steps:

Place a tumbleweed or similar fire starter on the fire starter support bars, compressing it if necessary to fit.
Light the fire starter using a matchstick or lighter with protective gloves.
After the fire starter is ablaze, power on the control panel.
Set the grill to the desired temperature.
Close the hopper lid and ash door.
Allow the grill to preheat.

Elevating Your Grilling Game with Smoke-Infused Delights

The Masterbuilt 1050 elevates the art of grilling by enabling you to infuse your meals with the unmistakable aroma and flavor of smoke. This feature transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Picture the rich, deep smokiness embedded in a tender brisket or the subtle, nuanced taste of salmon gently kissed by smoke—all effortlessly prepared in the comfort of your backyard using the Masterbuilt 1050.

The Magic of Charcoal in the Masterbuilt 1050

At the heart of this smoker is charcoal, the fuel that powers the Masterbuilt 1050. Charcoal is more than just a heat source; it's a way to impart a spectrum of flavors that gas grills simply can't match. Derived from wood that's been carbonized, charcoal offers a clean, efficient burn. Its ability to produce consistent, high heat while also generating smoke is what sets it apart, making it ideal for both grilling and smoking.

The grill's design optimizes the unique properties of charcoal, allowing you to control the intensity of the smoke and the heat to suit whatever you're cooking. From a slow-smoked pork shoulder that falls apart at the touch of a fork to vegetables that retain a hint of fire in their taste, the Masterbuilt 1050 opens up a world of possibilities for smoke-infused foods.

High Heat Searing

The Masterbuilt 1050 does a fairly well job with high heat searing to compliment its ability to smoke. The grill provides an effective searing temperature range of 300°F to 500°F suitable for the Maillard reaction and caramelization, crucial for perfect steaks.

After searing, thicker cuts of steak should be moved to an area of indirect heat on the grill to finish cooking to the desired level without over-searing or burning. Don’t forget to rest the steak post-searing for a period equivalent to 30% to 40% of its total cooking time. This allows muscle fibers to relax and absorb juices, enhancing flavor and tenderness.

Pro Tip - For searing burgers, forming patties with a dimple in the center prevents puffing during cooking, and searing over direct high heat for 2-3 minutes per side creates a desirable crust.

Margarita Style Grilled Pizza Recipe

The versatility of the Masterbuilt 1050 extends beyond meats to include the realm of mouth-watering grilled pizzas. Here’s your guide to crafting a classic Margarita Style Pizza with a healthier twist:

Begin with a homemade whole wheat pizza dough. This choice ensures your grilled pizza has a nutritious, wholesome base without sacrificing flavor.

For that perfect crispy crust, start by grilling one side of your stretched whole wheat dough. This technique forms a solid foundation for your toppings.

Layer on the toppings for your Margarita Style Pizza with a generous spread of tomato basil marinara, slices of fresh mozzarella, and ripe beefsteak tomato, embodying the simple yet irresistible essence of a traditional Margarita pizza.

Boost the pizza's flavor profile without piling on extra calories by adding fresh basil leaves right after grilling. This adds a refreshing zest and a pop of color.

Consider drizzling a bit of olive oil over the top for that final gourmet touch. Once off the grill, give your pizza a few minutes to cool down. This brief pause lets the crust firm up a bit more and the mozzarella achieve the perfect melt, making your pizza easier to slice and serve.

Embrace the joy of grilled pizza with this Margarita Style creation, utilizing the Masterbuilt 1050 for a smoky undertone that elevates this classic dish to new heights.

Cleaning and Care

The upkeep of your Masterbuilt 1050 is just as important as its operation. Here are some cleaning and maintenance tips to keep in mind:

Before cleaning, ensure the grill is cool to the touch and turn off the grill using the control panel.
Always allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a non-combustible container.
It’s essential to clean the grill and grates after every cook and then include a mild dish detergent and a damp rag every 4-5 cooks. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Empty and clean the grease tray with a damp rag.
Remove and clean the bottom grill tray, scraping grease and food particles into a non-combustible container.
Cover the grill and store it in a dry area to prevent rust or corrosion.

Season the grill interior

Seasoning a grill, often referred to as curing or burning in, is an essential process that involves coating the interior surfaces, including grates and smoker parts, with oil and then heating the grill to a high temperature. This process not only helps in protecting the grill from rust but also creates a non-stick surface, enhancing the flavor of your food. This is similar to the same process you go through with a cast iron pan.

To season the Masterbuilt 1050 Gravity Smoker, start by lightly coating all interior surfaces with a high smoke point oil, such as canola or grapeseed oil. Use a spray oil to make the process much quicker with less mess. Avoid using too much oil to prevent drippage.

Next, fire up your smoker, aiming to maintain a temperature of around 350°F to 400°F for about 2 to 3 hours. This allows the oil to polymerize and form a protective layer. Make sure to open the vents to allow proper airflow and smoke to exit, ensuring a thorough seasoning process. By following these steps, you not only extend the life of your Masterbuilt 1050 but also ensure it delivers consistently delicious, smoky flavors with every use.

Essential Accessories

Complement your Masterbuilt 1050 grilling experience with some key accessories. A Smoker Grill Cover provides robust protection with its durable, water-resistant fabric, UV additives to prevent fading, and a PVC liner to prevent tearing. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Cover also includes double-stitched seams and an adjustable drawstring, ensuring a secure fit to withstand the elements. The griddle accessory insert provides 465 sq. in. of flat-top griddle cooking space, expanding your culinary possibilities.

The Gravity Series Rotisserie Kit includes a spit rod and adjustable meat claws that can support up to 10lbs, allowing you to achieve slow, even rotisserie cooking.

Masterbuilt also offers a variety of replacement parts and accessories for the Gravity Series 1050, ensuring that your grill remains in top condition for years to come.

The Masterbuilt 1050 Gravity Smoker not only excels in smoking and grilling but also offers a fantastic pizza oven attachment, transforming your grill into a versatile outdoor pizza oven. This attachment allows for the perfect pizza environment, capable of reaching high temperatures needed for that authentic, crispy crust and evenly melted toppings. It's an ideal addition for those who love to experiment with different cooking methods or want to enjoy restaurant-quality pizza from the comfort of their backyard.

Summary

In summary, the Masterbuilt 1050 offers an unparalleled grilling experience. Its GravityFed charcoal hopper, digital control board, and Masterbuilt App make it easy and efficient to use. The grill’s versatility in cooking methods, from high heat searing to low and slow smoking, lets you explore a vast array of culinary possibilities. Its design features, such as the large cooking space and built-in meat probe thermometer, enhance the grilling experience. With proper care and maintenance, the Masterbuilt 1050 is a durable and long-lasting investment for any grilling enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the charcoal last in a Masterbuilt 1050?

The charcoal in a Masterbuilt 1050 will last up to 8 hours, thanks to the GravityFed Hopper that can hold up to 10 lbs of charcoal or 16 lbs of briquettes.

Can I use wood chunks in my Masterbuilt Gravity Series?

Yes, you can use wood chunks in your Masterbuilt Gravity Series. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation to place the wood chunks in the ash bucket, where falling coals can ignite them and add smoke, or place the chunks through the charcoal in the hopper for a longer-lasting smoke flavor.

How long will the Masterbuilt 1050 run?

The Masterbuilt 1050 can run for up to 8 hours, thanks to its GravityFed charcoal hopper that ensures a constant fuel supply to the fire.

Can the Masterbuilt 1050 be controlled remotely?

Yes, the Masterbuilt 1050 can be controlled remotely through the Masterbuilt App on mobile devices, utilizing its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

How should I clean my Masterbuilt 1050 grill?

To clean your Masterbuilt 1050 grill, always wait for it to cool down completely. Then, use a mild dish detergent and a damp rag to clean the grill and grates, and remember to empty and clean the grease tray and bottom grill tray after each use.

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Ultimate Grilling Experience: Masterbuilt 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill & Smoker Review