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A time-tested cooking appliance, a cast iron griddle is durable, non-toxic, and essential in the kitchen. Although its a little heavy and requires a bit of extra care, it's going to last a lifetime with the right maintenance.
Cast iron griddles can be used for a wide range of cooking styles and foods, so you must choose the best one.
However, the demand for cast iron griddles is huge, and the options are endless. To help you make the correct decision, we've reviewed some of the best models available today, along with the features to consider when purchasing one and the benefits of a quality griddle.
Comparison Chart of the Best Cast Iron Griddles
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What is a Cast Iron Griddle?
A cast iron griddle is essentially a flat surface that's placed over a heat source to prepare food. The flat surface is perfect for softer foods that solidify during cooking, like pancakes and eggs, but is also ideal for vegetables, meats, and dough-based dishes.
Usually crafted with molded iron, the base of a griddle pan has raised ridges, creating beautiful char marks and flash-fry vegetables and steaks in no time. With the proper maintenance, these units can last a lifetime and can withstand extremely high temperatures, including an open flame.
Lastly, due to its bigger ridges and excellent heat retention, a cast iron griddle creates lovely sear marks.
What to Look For When Buying a Cast Iron Griddle
When it comes to cooking surfaces, a lot of people opt for cast iron as their first choice. However, there are still some important specifications that you should consider before finalizing your purchase. Some of these features include:
Cooking Space
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a griddle is the cooking space required. Think about how much food you'll be cooking at once. Although smaller cooking areas are cheaper, they won't be able to feed a lot of people.
Heat Retention
As a material, iron absorbs a lot of heat, retains it, and does not release it quickly. It's advisable to choose a unit that cools down slowly. A slow-cooling griddle will enable users to keep parts of their meal warm until everything is ready.
Reversibility
Reversible models can cook flat dishes, and are capable of grilling meat to perfection as well. The smooth side of the griddle is perfect for breakfast, whereas the ridged one is great for dinner and lunch.
Stove Compatibility
Although cast iron griddles are compatible with all gas stoves, you'll need to ensure that the unit takes up the right amount of space. If you're purchasing a griddle for camping, then you'll need to choose a model that fits on your camp stove.
Willy's Top Picks - Best Cast Iron Griddles
Here are the best cast iron griddles:
Review of the Best Cast Iron Griddles
With so many different sizes and shapes available in the market, choosing the best cast iron griddle is no piece of cake. To help make the decision easier, here are detailed reviews of some of the best ones:
Best Overall:
Lodge LSRG3
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers loved this unit and said that it was perfect for a wide range of meals, including bacon, pancakes, chicken, eggs, and steak. Users stated that it was incredibly easy to clean, heated well, and didn't take up a lot of space. However, some customers found it to be too heavy, while some were disappointed that there was no easy way to pour out grease.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Offering fast and even heating for baking, frying, grilling, searing, and broiling, this model perfectly fits on a single stovetop burner. Its reversible iron plate features a grill side for burgers, veggies, meats, and a smooth, flat side for bacon, eggs, and other breakfast foods.
This unit is handcrafted and comes pre-seasoned, so users can start cooking right away. Furthermore, its two-sided design is incredibly compact, allowing you to use the griddle as an oven tray as well. Along with being perfect for cooking recipes created for two people, this unit can also be used to bake various pizzas and pies.
Bottom Line
Boasting both a ribbed grill and a smooth griddle, this reversible, single-burner unit works as a dual cooking surface. Although it offers excellent heat retention and distribution for even, consistent cooking, the pan may not sit flat on a stovetop.
Runner-up:
Calphalon 1873980
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users found that this unit performed up to their expectations, and said that it was perfect for a large family. They were impressed with its easy cleaning ability and uniformed heating and stated that it was easy to maneuver during cooking. However, some buyers complained that it didn't have a flat surface, while some reported that the food stuck badly to the pan.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Perfect for slow and traditional cooking, this model allows users to cook food consistently and steadily. Sitting over two stovetop burners, its cast iron construction prevents food from sticking to the pan, while its oversized handles make it easier to move the unit from place to place.
Furthermore, this unit boasts a 12-inch by 18-inch cooking surface to ensure even heat distribution. Its reversible design features two cooking surfaces, which include a smooth griddle for French toasts, pancakes, toasted sandwiches, and a ridged grill for breakfast sausages, vegetables, and chicken breasts.
Lastly, this versatile griddle/grill combo is compatible with electric, halogen, induction, gas, and glass stovetops, and can be used with nylon, wooden, and metal utensils.
Bottom Line
Designed to heat food steadily and evenly, this Calphalon model is perfect for slow and traditional cooking techniques. Although its pre-seasoned surface prevents sticking and retains heat to keep food warm while serving, its short handle can make it a bit awkward to use.
Best for the Money:
Kookantage 10.5"
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The majority of the buyers loved this unit and stated that it did an excellent job of maintaining and distributing heat. They found the unit to be of good quality and said that it heated up quickly. However, some customers reported that it rusted quickly, while some were disappointed with its rough interior surface.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A perfect addition to every cookware collection, this unit offers a generous 10.5-inch cooking surface. It's incredibly versatile and can be used for nearly everything, ranging from French toasts, crepes, pancakes, and eggs to grilled sandwiches, quesadillas, and more. It further features a wide flat base that allows cooks to flip food or turn it over with a spatula easily.
Moreover, the model can be moved seamlessly from the stovetop to the table for easier serving and cleanup. It's also pre-seasoned to prevent rust and is compatible with all cooking surfaces, including ovens, broilers, stovetops, and barbecue grills.
Bottom Line
With a wide cooking surface and lower sidewalls, this Kookantage griddle delivers exceptional, heavy-duty performance. It's perfect for campfires, ovens, and stovetops, and boasts even heating and excellent heat retention. However, its surface is a bit rough, which can be disappointing for some.
Best Cast Iron Griddle for Gas Stove:
Uno Casa Cast Iron Griddle Grill Pan
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were incredibly satisfied with their purchase, with one user stating that it made perfectly charred steaks and wonderfully crispy pancakes. They loved the included chainmail cleaner and found its construction to be durable. However, some customers complained that it did not cook food evenly, while some reported that it gathered rust after every use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This multipurpose unit stands out to us for several different reasons. Firstly, its two-sided design is perfect for both daily cooking and camping. This is because its ridged grill can be used to cook vegetables and meat, while its flat top grill is perfect for crispy tortillas, eggs, and pancakes.
Secondly, the pre-seasoned and nonstick unit ensures even heat distribution and retains it to keep food warm. It also boasts superior cooking on all heat sources, including campfire coals, ovens, and gas grills.
Perfectly fitting on top of two stovetop burners, the cast iron pan further requires less oil and reduces fat with its angled grease slope. Lastly, its built-in handles make it easier for users to move it from place to place, while its durable construction ensures the unit will get better after every use.
Bottom Line
Compatible with ovens, campfires, and all kinds of stovetops, this model undoubtedly deserves a place on our list of top picks. With its double-sided design, built-in carrying handles, and angled grease slope, the griddle is perfect for grilling fish, meat, vegetables, and eggs. However, it requires a lot of care and maintenance.
Best Cast Iron Griddle Pan:
Lodge L8SGP3ASHH41B
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This model has received a plethora of positive reviews and has been recommended by buyers for indoor grilling. Users stated that the unit cooked food evenly, gave a nice smoky flavor, and prevented food from sticking. However, customers reported that it was a bit difficult to clean, while some found the handle to be too short.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit primarily stands out to us because of its ease of use. It's already seasoned, so you can use the pan as soon as it arrives without worrying about food sticking to its surface. Its superior design further ensures even cooking and exceptional heat retention, enabling users to cook professional-quality meals.
Moreover, the ribbed surface drains fat from food, while searing beautiful grill marks on your food at the same time. It also boasts an easy-grip handle and an assist handle for hanging storage and better control. Lastly, the griddle can be used on campfires, grills, and all types of cooking surfaces.
Bottom Line
Versatile and multi-functional cookware, this Lodge griddle is perfect for all slow-cooking recipes. It heats evenly, offers excellent heat retention, and is ideal for use over campfires. However, the ridges make it extremely difficult to clean.
Best Lodge Cast Iron Griddle:
Lodge B002CMLTXG
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were extremely satisfied with their purchase, with one reviewer stating that they could successfully cook beef, pancakes, and fish. Users found the unit to be well-made, perfectly flat, and exceptionally durable. However, some customers reported that grease got in the corners, while some experienced sticking issues with the flat side.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Boasting a dual cooking surface, this unit is designed with both a ribbed grill and a smooth griddle. Its smooth side can be used to make simple dishes, such as eggs, French toast, and grilled sandwiches. Meanwhile, its ribbed side is perfect for grilling hamburgers and steaks.
Moreover, this unit can be easily used on a portable stove and a gas stovetop. It offers unparalleled heat retention and keeps the food warm until the entire meal is ready. Lastly, the model is seasoned with vegetable oil to give a natural finish, while its durable construction ensures that it will last a long time.
Bottom Line
Offering endless possibilities, this unit can be used to bake, fry, grill, sear, and broil. It sits on top of two stovetop burners and provides excellent heat retention and even cooking. However, the lack of a reservoir for grease run-off may be disappointing for some.
Best Cast Iron Reversible Griddle:
Lodge B00008GKDQ
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This unit has received a lot of positive reviews. Users stated that it was large enough to cook several steaks at one time and gave the food a beautiful, flavorful crust. They found the overall heat transfer to be excellent and said that it held seasoning well. However, some buyers reported that the unit cracked after a few uses.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Lodge creates high quality cast iron griddles, and this reversible model is no exception. Offering 208 square inches of heating surface, it features both a grill and a griddle, giving you the option to choose whatever suits your needs.
The large surface is up for any challenge, from breakfast meals to steaks and complex recipes that have a lot of vegetables. Its handles are also ergonomically crafted and are connected to the unit, making it one durable piece of cast iron.
Furthermore, the product is portable and ideal for open fire cooking and camping trips. Lastly, it sits on two regular gas stovetops, distributing heat more evenly than the gas burners.
Bottom Line
Along with being one of the best cast iron griddles available today, this unit is also incredibly economical because of its large size. It's designed with a groove on both sides to catch juices and fats, while its heat retention capabilities make it ideal for high-temperature searing. However, its heavyweight might be unsuitable for some.
Best Cast Iron Round Griddle:
Lodge Pre-Seasoned B00008GKDN
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The majority of the buyers loved this unit and said it provided excellent heat distribution. Users found it to be easy to clean and incredibly sturdy and stated that food did not stick to the surface of the griddle was properly seasoned. However, some customers reported that their product arrived sturdy, while some complained that it got hot too fast.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A combination of a griddle and a skillet, this unit is skillet-shaped but has a larger cooking surface that's similar to a griddle. It features an ergonomic handle with a hole in the center to allow for faster cooling. It also arrives pre-seasoned, so you can use it as soon as you receive it.
Moreover, this unit is perfect for breakfast food. Its curved edges make it ideal for foods that need a lot of stirring as well. Although this model will excel on cut meat and omelets, it's also convenient for round foods, such as crepes and quesadillas, and works as an excellent pizza stone too.
Bottom Line
This Lodge model is undoubtedly one of the best kitchen tools for cooking grilled sandwiches, quesadillas, vegetables, tortillas, and more. Its design ensures good heat retention and enables users to cook at a set temperature. However, poor quality control can be a bit disappointing.
Best Cast Iron Electric Griddle:
Waring Pro CIG100
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This unit has received mixed reviews. Some users stated that it worked as advertised, had an effective design, and did not release any smoke. On the other hand, some buyers were disappointed with the short power cord and found the grate to be awkward, huge, and difficult to clean.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Featuring three different heat settings, this 1800-watt unit can handle everything from searing steaks to grilling hot dogs. It ensures even heat distribution, so you know everything will be completely cooked.
This model is easy to clean as well. A drip tray and stainless steel splash guards prevent grease from collecting under the unit and splatter from hitting the walls, while the grilling surface itself can be removed for easy cleaning. The splash guards can also be folded when not in use to allow easy storage.
However, this unit stands out because of its three heat settings. The Medium and Low settings are perfect for cooking seafood, vegetables, and meat, whereas the High setting is ideal for searing hamburgers and steaks as it enhances the flavor.
Bottom Line
The Waring Pro is an extremely large countertop electric grill that allows users to cook burgers, steaks, and more from the comfort of their kitchen. While its detachable grilling surface and three temperature settings ensure even heat distribution, its design could be improved.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Cast Iron Griddle
A cast iron griddle will benefit anyone who cooks more than once in a couple of days. Along with having a cooking surface that can last forever, there are several advantages of having a quality model. Some of these benefits include:
Excellent Thermal Capacity
Cast iron griddles can withstand extremely high cooking temperatures without bending, damaging, or breaking in any way. This is especially beneficial for camping and outdoor activity enthusiasts, as even an open fire will not damage the griddle at all.
Versatility
A quality unit can be used to bake, broil, char, fry, steam, and saute your food. There are also special dishes that can only be created with a cast iron griddle.
Delicious and Healthy Food
Using a cast iron griddle can make your food healthier and tastier. Heat retention allows users to use fewer fats and oils, and a small amount of iron enters your food when cooking acidic food as well. That's why some doctors recommend cast iron griddles to people suffering from anemia or iron deficiency.
Comparison Overview
There are several different types of griddles available, and choosing just one material can be a bit difficult. To help you find a unit that best suits your needs, we've compared some of the most common types:
Cast Iron vs. Stainless Steel Griddle
A cast iron griddle is thicker, heavier, and more durable than a stainless steel griddle. Stainless steel is also durable, but it doesn't compare to a cast-iron model in this regard. Although both units need to be seasoned to protect against rust and to prevent food from sticking to the surface, cast iron griddles require a bit more maintenance and need to be seasoned more frequently than stainless steel ones.
Furthermore, steel heats up faster, whereas cast iron retains heat better. Thus, if you're looking for a griddle that will remain hot when you place something cold on it, then choose a cast-iron one.
Electric Griddle vs. Cast Iron
Both cast iron and electric griddles can be used for cooking breakfasts, like French toast, bacon, and pancakes. However, electric models are much more portable in regards to cookware, whereas cast iron units are heavy, bulky, and a bit difficult to carry.
Cast iron griddles also use a lot of energy and take a longer time to heat up than electric models.
How to Use a Cast Iron Griddle
If you want to add char to wraps or want to achieve perfectly grilled veggies and steaks, then these griddles are certainly worth investing in. However, to fully appreciate the true beauty of a cast iron griddle, you need to know how to use it properly. The following are some steps you can follow:
Properly heat the pan before using it.
Place it on a low to a medium flame when you begin prepping, and let it heat while you gather and prepare the ingredients.
Rotate the griddle every few minutes to ensure even heat distribution.
Instead of squirting a bit of oil on the griddle before you start cooking, it's better to brush oil onto the vegetables and meat before cooking them. This will help prevent oil from accumulating on the ridges and will make clean up easier.
Use tongs to place your food on the pan, dropping and lifting it a couple of times to create the first sear.
If you're searing steak, make sure you don't flip the meat constantly. Let one side cook for its full cooking time before flipping it.
For a better understanding of how to use a cast iron griddle, make sure you watch this video below:
Cleaning a Cast Iron Griddle - What You Need to Know
The maintenance of cast iron griddles is a bit different than other pans. To ensure the model lasts you a lifetime, you'll need to clean it thoroughly after cooking. The process isn't that difficult, and you can easily do it by following these steps:
Once your food is cooked, remove the griddle from the flame and let it cool down to room temperature.
Pick off any bits of food that are stuck on the surface of the pan. Instead of using a scrubbing brush, it's better to use a cloth and a bit of coarse salt to remove any stubborn food.
Once the pan has completely cooled down, place it under the tap, and use a damp cloth to get rid of any residual oil.
Use a clean towel to dry the pan, and then put it over a low flame.
Add a bit more oil, and make sure it doesn't collect anywhere. One teaspoon of oil, coated across the cooking surface, is usually enough for most pans.
Let the griddle cool and store it until further use.
If you want a visual representation of how to clean a cast-iron griddle, then you can watch the video mentioned below:
Conclusion
All the aforementioned cast iron griddles are unique, with each having its shape, size, and features. Although all of them will serve you well in cooking bacon, fish, veggies, and meat, it's advisable to go through all the reviews to find the unit that best suits your needs.
People Also Ask
There are many different types of cast iron griddles available today, and finding the best one can be an extremely confusing and time-consuming task. To help you decide and to clear away any queries you may have, we've answered some of the most commonly asked questions:
How Do You Take Care of a Cast Iron Griddle?
Gently clean the griddle after every use with water and a cloth or a two-sided sponge. Once you've washed and rinsed the pan, use a towel to dry it before keeping it in a warm oven for around ten minutes. Take the pan out and use a paper towel to apply a thin coating of neutral oil on its surface. Lastly, store the pan in a dry place.
How to Remove Rust From a Cast Iron Griddle?
Place the griddle upside-down and sprinkle a bit of baking soda.
Spray the pan with water and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid.
Remove the debris and rust with a scrub brush.
Turn the pan over, add some baking soda, and clean it with a scrub pad.
Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
How to Season a Cast Iron Griddle?
Thoroughly scrub the griddle with hot soapy water.
Once the pan is dry, apply a thin coating of vegetable oil or melted shortening over the entire cooking surface.
Heat your oven to 375o and place the griddle upside down on the middle rack.
Place a foil on the lower rack to collect any drips.
Turn the oven off after an hour, and leave the pan in the oven to cool.
What Can You Not Cook in Cast Iron?
It's not advisable to cook smelly foods like peppers, stinky cheeses, and garlic in cast iron as these foods can leave aromatic memories in your pan. It's best to avoid sticky things, such as eggs, when your pan is new as well. You can also not cook any desserts, wine-braised meats, and delicate fish.
Can You Use a Cast Iron Griddle on Glass Top Stove?
Yes, a cast iron griddle can be used on a glass top stove to cook sausages, bacon, eggs, steak, sandwiches, and more. However, it's not recommended as the burrs and rough spots on the bottom of a cast-iron pan can easily damage and scratch the glass surface.
Do You Clean Cast Iron After Every Use?
Yes, cast iron should be cleaned after every use. It's advisable to wipe the interior surface of the pan with a paper towel to get rid of any excess oil and food. Rinse it with hot running water, and use a non-abrasive scrub pad or nonmetal brush to remove any bits of food.
