There are certainly a number of smokers on the market today, each of them promoting their unique attributes with some being quite exceptional. The Masterbuilt 7 in 1 smoker is one such model that has proven itself over time to be one of the best on the market. Its unique design, combined with its versatility, durable construction, and classic Masterbuilt simplicity when it comes to preparing meals, has made the Masterbuilt 7 in 1 smoker grill a very popular choice.
In this review, we will go over the basic construction, elements, and benefits that it provides for those who are looking for the best when it comes to smokers all for a very reasonable price. This 7 in 1 smoker from Masterbuilt is one that has certainly earned all the attention it has received since it was first released.
How Did this Smoker Get Its Name?
Essentially, the 7 in 1 smoker got its name from the fact that there are 7 ways that you can cook meals with this unit. Here are the unique ways that it can be utilized:
- Gas smoker
- Charcoal smoker
- Gas grill
- Charcoal grill
- Camp stove
- Deep fryer
- Steam/broiler
It is important to know that this smoker/grill works very well with either charcoal or propane. You can even use the propane burner to light the charcoal which makes the start-up process very easy. While relatively small compared to smokers of similar price, the number of different functions combined with the intuitive instructions, excellent temperature control and ability to produce consistent smoking results makes this one of the best in the marketplace.
The unit itself offers a modular design that allows you to create the type of grilling or smoking experience that you want for your food. Masterbuilt has managed to create a device that combines all the elements of the larger, more expensive smoker/griller combos. Because of its unique construction and versatility, this unit has been found to be useful in many different situations.
The temperature control is another excellent aspect of the smoker, as this control is important to be able to cook a wide variety of foods and achieve great results with relatively little effort from the operator. While not quite a “set it and forget it” unit, it is one that is very easy and simple to operate.
Whether you are using this device as a smoker, grill, stove, fryer or broiler it is important to always make food safety a top priority.
What Do People Like Most About This Smoker?
There are many different things that people mention when it comes to using this particular smoker grill. It seems that Masterbuilt has left nothing out in creating a nearly perfect combination of both smoker and grill that offers so many different means of preparing food.
Here are the things that people commonly talk about when asked about this smoker:
Versatility: Arguably the most unique aspect of the Masterbuilt M7P is just how versatile it is when it comes to how it can be used. The flame disk bowl lets you switch from charcoal to propane quickly and easily. If you can’t decide on which meat to smoke for a special meal there are two levels so you can do both at the same time. These two levels provide almost 600 square inches of total cooking surface and can handle approximately 16-18 hamburgers. The top-level has the largest area of cooking surface.
Portability: Being small certainly has its advantages and since this unit is also lightweight, it has become an ideal choice for tailgating and camping opportunities. You can easily pack it up for storage or put it in the back of your truck or van to go where you want. People really like portability.
Space: While relatively small in size, there is still plenty of room inside to cook for a large gathering of friends and family. The unique space-saving design maximizes the internal area so that most meat and food can be prepared for your group.
Wet or Dry: You can use this smoker in either wet or dry mode for your barbeque. If you like, you can even add juices, vinegar or whatever beverage you deem fit to the water bowl for even more flavor and moisture.
High-Temperature Cooking: You can adjust the temperature to cook different types of foods so that they taste their best. While most meat is smoked at lower temperatures, you can cook at the high temperatures necessary for grilling hamburger and steak so that they finish well. You can even wrap potatoes and corn on the cob for indirect cooking too.
You can also check out our recommended smoker recipe book for some of the best cooking ideas.
Steam/Broiler: The 7 in 1 smoker from Masterbuilt comes with a 10-quart pot and a basket so that you can broil seafood or even deep fry some chicken wings or fries if you so desire. Whatever cooking needs you have, the Masterbuilt 7 in 1 smoker is prepared to fulfill them whether at tailgate parties, camping events or in the backyard when you want some tasty barbeque for dinner.
What Makes This Device So Unique?
There are a number of unique things that this device offers, but it all begins with the lightweight design that makes it easy to move around, set-up and store when needed.
Heat Resistant Handles: Now you can lift up the unit by the handles without worrying as much about burning your hands or accidentally bumping into them and getting injured as well. This makes it easier to operate the smoker to your needs.
Hands-Free Lid Holder: A small, yet really nice touch that allows you to have the lid held without tying up your hands to check the food. This is one of those underrated aspects that help make it easier for the chef while cooking.
Drip-Free Design: This means less clean up on your part and easier maintenance as well. For those who may not look forward to cleaning up the smoker afterward, this unique part of the design helps make the job a little easier.
What Special Considerations Do I Need to Be Aware of With This Smoker?
Although this smoker is packed with most of the capabilities you would expect for a smoker in its price range, there are some special considerations you will want to be aware of if you decide to purchase this smoker:
Thermometer: While the unit does come with its own thermometer for the smoker chamber, we recommend that you pick up a digital probe thermometer to check the temperature inside the chamber and inside the food being prepared as well. Food safety should always be a primary concern in order to prevent food illnesses.
Protective Cover: This unit does not come with a cover of course, but it is a good idea to get a dome-shaped cover to protect it when not being used. Masterbuilt does not make a cover specifically for the 7 in 1 smoker so you will need to look for a smoker grill cover with a universal or generic fit.
Push Button Starter: A starter button does not accompany this smoker so you will need to have a long stem grilling lighter to fire the unit up when you are ready to use it.
What is The Final Conclusion?
There is little doubt that the Masterbuilt 7 in 1 smoker grill offers a highly versatile platform to cook a wide variety of meats and meals, but the secret just may be the unique modular design that makes switching from smoking to grilling to broiling to deep frying so easy to do.
For those who are on a very limited budget and want something more than just a gas smoker or charcoal smoker, or for those who love to cook and want to be able to enjoy a wide variety of foods, the Masterbuilt M7P is definitely one that you should consider investing in.
If your budget can handle a little larger investment, you might want to consider one of the other smokers from Masterbuilt. Each of these is different from the 7 in 1 smoker and come with their own special qualities that can provide years of enjoyment depending on what you want in a smoker.
NOTICE – Masterbuilt Recalls the 7 in 1 Smoker
Currently, the Masterbuilt 7 in 1 Smoker is not available for purchase due to a product recall that is related to a fire hazard. Consumers are being advised by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to stop using this product immediately and contact Masterbuilt at 800-489-1581 to get a new gas hose.
