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If you don’t have enough space in your backyard or the weather is too chilly for your liking to step out and eat, I can understand your frustration. But that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a wholesome meal. For that reason, you should be searching for the best cast iron grill pan, which will provide you with a piping hot fancy meal indoors, in your house’s comfort. The cast iron grill pan delivers flavorful meals and keeps your health intact through pre-seasoned pans, so you don’t have to use excess butter or oil.
Additionally, suppose you like your food to have beautiful grill marks. In that case, you consider investing in an affordable and the best cast iron grill pan with the press, a flat surface pan on which you’ll be able to cook whatever your heart desires.
We have some excellent performing cast iron grill pans to help you choose the ideal cast iron grill pan. Also, our buying guide will aid you in picking the best option out there.
Video: Things You Must Know About Cast Iron Skillets
10 Best Cast Iron Grill Pans in 2023 – Chef’s Approved
| No. | Cast Iron Grills Pan | Material |
| 1 | Cuisinart Square Pan | Cast iron |
| 2 | Lodge Pre-Seasoned Pan | Cast iron |
| 3 | Gotham Steel Non-Stick Pan | Cast iron |
| 4 | Gourmex Toughpan | Aluminum |
| 5 | Lodge Pre-Seasoned Grill | Cast iron |
| 6 | Le Creuset Grill | Cast iron |
| 7 | NutriChef Reversible Grill Plate | Cast iron |
| 8 | Jim Beam Pre-Seasoned Skillet | Cast iron |
| 9 | Victoria Grill Pan | Cast iron |
| 10 | Outset Shrimp Pan | Cast iron |
1. Cuisinart 9 Inch Square Grill Pan (CI30-23BG)
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Here we go with our exclusive top pick, the Cuisinart square cast iron grill pan, which rightfully deserves to be on top of our list. Its 9.25 inches grilling pan is well-known for having the best cooking performance once given enough time to heat up.
You won’t be disappointed by the Cuisinart Grill pan, but you’ll need to learn a few tips and tricks first. Setting the flame medium-high will get the best results as the cast iron grill heats up pretty well. Due to the cast iron contraction, the cast iron grill also retains heat for a long duration.
Cuisinart has introduced an excellent porcelain enameled interior to grab more attention, which is ideal for cooking as it provides equal heat distribution. It can also be placed on any surface, which wouldn’t have any negative impact or funny odors on the food.
A good cast iron grill handle is no less than a lifesaver. It is strong, durable, and provides the perfect firm grip when cooking or serving piping hot food. This is one of the best indoor grill pan cast iron enamel coated; we’ve come across it as it does not require detailed cleaning, can be washed in a dishwasher, and is perfect for indoor grilling events.
Video: How To Cook With Cast Iron?
2. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Pan
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Are you craving a juicy burger or a steak but don’t have enough energy to step outside? Don’t worry, as Lodge’s Pre-seasoned cast iron grill pan has covered you. You can now grill indoors with it. And do you know what the best part about this cast iron grill is? It is already pre-seasoned, so you can start grilling your food right away.
This pre-seasoned cast iron grill pan can be used on all cooking surfaces without worrying, as the high edges on the sides protect your countertops from unwanted splashes of food. For excellent food presentation, the interior’s ridges leave beautiful grill marks on your food.
With a heavy-duty design, the square grill pan ensures equal heat distribution and has a durable and long-lasting build. This pan can be used in two ways: placing it on the stove and in the oven if you’re craving a baked stake. Not only that, but we can say that this is one of the best-shaped square cast iron grill pans as it can easily accommodate more food, such as two decent-sized pieces of stake for you and your partner.
Video: How To Season A Cast Iron Grill Pan Before Use?
3. Gotham Steel Nonstick Grill Pan for Stovetops
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Gotham is amongst the well-known manufacturers of ceramic-coated cookware and claims to have the best cast iron grill pans in the market. This grilling pan promises to deliver the ultimate food with an ultra-non-stick coating done three times and reinforced with diamonds.
The ridges on the non-stick pan’s sides are perfect for grilling burgers, steaks, and chicken, while the bottom of the ridges leaves aesthetic grill marks on the food. Moreover, these high ridges reduce hot food splatters on the counters. To earn more brownie points, the eco-friendly Gotham cast iron grill pan is coated with minerals, ensuring the food is healthy and non-toxic while allowing the extra liquids and fats to slip away, making the meal healthy and fat-free.
Moreover, the coating of the cast iron grill pan is durable and robust enough to withstand the use of metal utensils such as spoons, spatulas, whisks, and electric beaters. The stainless steel handle relieves cooking or serving hot food as it remains cool throughout. Last but not least – the part we all dread the most. Yes, the washing. It is entirely effortless and hassle-free to do.
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Video: Cast Iron Skillet vs Stainless Steel Pan
4. GOURMEX Toughpan Induction Grill Pan
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
As the name suggests, the Gourmex toughpan induction grill pan indeed lives up to its name because it is constructed from heavy-duty cast aluminum material, making it strong, durable, and ever-lasting. The heavy cast aluminum is useful for delivering heat quickly and efficiently throughout the grill pan during cooking.
Additionally, the cast iron grill pan’s body is covered with a non-stick coating, ensuring that the pan is safe from the slightest of scratches even after prolonged use. Its handle is made from stainless steel and is covered with black silicone, which is heat resistant.
Gourmex toughpan not only works with induction stoves but is also highly compatible with high-tech cooktops. It doesn’t matter whether you cook on gas, electricity, or even coal, as this aluminum grill pan has been specially made to withstand all heat sources.
Washing this gourmex grill pan is a no-brainer. You must clean it with soapy water, rinse it thoroughly, and let it dry. Moreover, you can use any scrubber to scrub off the grease and oil remains which hardly ever happens as the grill pan is non-stick. Besides being durable, this is one of the best cast iron grills as it is ecological, safe to use, and 100% chemical-free.
5. Lodge LDP3 Reversible Grill/Griddle
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
This Lodge LDP3 Reversible Grill has a unique two-in-one feature as it can be used as both a griddle and a cast iron grill. The non-stick feature further adds to the performance and improves the taste of the food.
The Lodge LDP3 griddle has an excellent heating capacity, ensuring that the heat spreads equally across the grill and is prepped evenly. The best feature is that even after turning off the heat, the cast iron grill remains hot for a long time, so imagine how hot the food will be?
This is the best cast iron griddle for steak as it is spacious and a good option – especially for large families who want to cook outdoor steaks on the stove. Let me tell you that the griddle collects juice in one part so the steak can be cooked properly without steaming. But that’s not all. This flat cast iron grill can easily fit anywhere, whether it’s the stove or oven in the kitchen or even a campfire in the woods.
6. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Skillet Grill
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Le Creuset is a famous name for its enameled cast iron grill pans. These pans are appreciated for their craftsmanship and style and are considered one of the best markets. This Le Creuset cast iron grill pan can’t miss being a part of your kitchen with its glossy exterior and bright color.
This Le Creuset cast iron grill pan is made of an even-heating enameled cast iron interior that provides equal heat to the food being cooked. The ridges on the inside leave aesthetic grill marks on the food and encourage low-fat cooking.
The cast iron grill pan’s striking cerise color is long-lasting and resists chipping and cracking if used carefully and carefully. The cast iron grill pan can also be washed by hand in the entirely safe dishwasher. You don’t need to worry about the enamel chipping off or the grill pan getting cracks on it.
What’s the verdict? Thet Le Creuset Enameled iron cast grill is the best cast iron grill skillet for home as it is dishwasher safe, long-lasting, and a wise choice for smaller families.
7. NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Are you searching for a large cast iron grill pan as you have a huge family to serve? Are you tired of cooking food in 2 to 3 turns? If your answer is yes, then we’re here with a solution for you. The NutriChef cast iron reversible grill plate caters you to a 2 –1 design, which means more variety and less spending.
Do you know what the most convenient part is? This can be the best cast iron grill pan to cook burgers or steak on the ribbed side, while you can quickly cook eggs, sandwiches, and pancakes on the other side, which is the flatter. The cast iron reversible grill has a non-stick surface, ensuring that food is released with ease and is healthy as it eliminates the need for butter or oil.
Furthermore, the cast iron skillet works best with stovetops, is oven safe up to 480F, and is compatible with heating methods such as gas, ceramic, and electric stoves. The NutriChef iron grill pan is easy to clean and stain-resistant. Additional accessories include silicone mittens, perfect for handling the skillet when it comes out of the oven.
8. Jim Beam JB0159 Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Not everybody likes frying pans; some need pre-seasoned skillets too. So, here’s another option for you, a pre-seasoned cast iron skillet by Jim Beam, which has already made its name in the market as it offers a blend of affordability and practicality side by side.
When we talk about the cast iron skillet’s surface, it has a ridged surface that ensures healthy, low-calorie eating as it drains away extra oils and fats. Not only that, but it also leaves perfect grilling marks on the food for you to enjoy. It is ideal for preparing meals like hamburgers, sandwiches, steak, or fish.
The Jim Beam Skillet is no less than a masterpiece as it boasts of being one of the best cast iron grill pans under $30 due to its excellent performance at such an affordable price. These features include an even heat system and incredible durability, and less wear and tear over the years to come.
Furthermore, the cast iron skillet is non-stick and avoids potentially harmful substances for people who season it and use it regularly. Also, uncoated cast iron leaches small amounts of iron into food as it cooks, which is a unique health benefit.
9. Victoria Cast Iron Grill Pan
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Victoria’s 12-inch cast iron skillet has earned a spot on our list due to its straightforward and dependable nature. It has been pre-seasoned with flaxseed oil which promotes healthy eating. Many experts also recommend it as it has higher sides, a curved removable handle, and a wide diameter.
This Victoria cast iron grill pan’s performance deserves appreciation as it ensures the heat is spread evenly during the cooking process. The pan stays hot even after the stove is turned off, and the food remains warm throughout this time. The food is healthy and tasty because it is ensured that no harmful substances such as PTFE and PFOAs are used during the coating.
Surprisingly, traces of iron are released into the food while cooking as supposedly iron is healthy for you and healthily boosts your diet. Now, what’s so versatile about this iron grill pan? This is one of the best cast iron grills for stove tops but is not only limited to stovetops. It can also be used as a campfire, vegetable, Panini, and bbq grill pan. Moreover, unlike other cast iron grills, this Victoria pan offers you a lifetime warranty without additional costs.
10. Outset 76375 Shrimp Cast Iron Grill Pan
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
There is no doubt about Outset’s ability to manufacture high-end cast iron grill pans in terms of innovation and versatility. This Outset grill cast iron pan is a dream come true for your unlimited servings of shrimp during important events and family dinners.
Let’s first talk about the multiple functions this cast iron grill pan claims to offer. It is suitable for many different cooking methods, such as frying, baking, cooking, sautéing, etc. Also specially made for shrimps, it makes an excellent presentation, and the food is healthy and free from excess fats and oil.
You may ask how? Let me tell you. Already pre-seasoned from before, the grilling pan does not require additional oils or butter as it encourages healthy eating. The pan’s non-stick surface provides more flavor, texture, and proper grilling to the food and ensures that the food slides out with ease.
We mustn’t forget that besides all of these features, the cast iron grill offers heavy-duty heat, and due to its small size, it can be transferred anywhere from cooktops and ovens to your camping trips. Do you know the easiest and best way to clean a cast iron grill pan? Hand wash it with warm water, scrub and rinse it thoroughly, and let the pan dry.
Grooved Cast Iron Grill Pan vs. Non-Grooved
Cast iron grill pan with grooves
Are you a huge food lover who likes to have fulfilling and delicious meals? Or do you like your proteins? If yes, a cast iron grill pan with grooves will help you prepare your favorite foods, including meat, such as steaks, sausages, and hamburgers. Preparing meat in such a pan makes the meat tender and juicy as the liquid runs off the side.
Not only that, but the ridges will also help to keep the food healthy, fat-free, and away from any chemical substances as the cast iron grill pan is pre-seasoned beforehand, so there is no need for excess oil and butter. The ridges also leave beautiful grill marks on your food when it is done.
However, washing iron grill pans with grooves can be challenging as they require extra care, and delicate foods such as fish and vegetables cannot be cooked in them.
Cast iron grill pan without grooves
If you’re into wholesome, dry, and simple meals, not exotic fancy ones, you should opt for a cast iron grill pan without grooves or a flat surface. These foods include eggs, pancakes, biscuits, cornbread, or casseroles. Moreover, these pans are easier to use and do not require practice or professional experience.
The food has no chance of getting stuck in the ridges or breaking apart as the surface is flat. It also toasts food evenly, unlike pans with grooves, and the final result of the food is almost the same as an iron grill pan with ridges.
On the other hand, the flat surface is bland; it does not create unique designs like a cast iron groove pan and doesn’t have high sides, making food splatters unavoidable.
Video: Stainless Steel Frying Pan vs Cast Iron Skillets? What’s best for you!
Buying Tips for The Cast Iron Grill Pans
Have you seen Cuisinart has made its mark by offering a grill pan with everything from the material, color, and coating to affordable pricing? But are you satisfied with the lodge pre-seasoned grill pan, which has the best modern design available in the market? And what about the eco-friendly features Gotham offers without any additional costs? With various varieties and competition between different brands, choosing the best cast iron pan for the grill can become tricky. There’s no need to fret. You won’t have a hard time figuring out when you finally have to choose the perfect cast iron grill after reading our detailed buying guide we have written just for you.
Grill size
If you’re tired of repeatedly cooking on the same small grill due to a large family or during parties, you should opt for a larger grill pan that doesn’t take up much of your time. However, if you have a small family or are single, a small-sized cast iron grill pan measuring around 9-10 inches will also do the job.
Material
Have you ever wondered if your grill pan should be suitable for the equipment you have at home? Are you looking for an affordable and best cast iron grill pan for an electric stove? If yes, you’ll be glad to know that all cast iron grill pans mentioned above are compatible with electric stoves and gas ones.
With or without ridges
The ridges in a cast iron grill pan depend on what you eat. If you’re a fan of having meaty foods more often, like hamburgers or steaks, I’d suggest you go for a pan with ridges as it collects liquids on one side and leaves the meat soft and tender. On the other hand, if you consume dry foods such as eggs, pancakes, or biscuits, a grill pan without ridges will work correctly for you.
Price
Deciding the price range you want to go for is necessary if you’re on a tight budget and only invest a certain amount. If you’re looking for options for cheap cast iron grill pans, there’s no need to worry as we have provided you with plenty of options. The cast iron grill pan will not only be easy on the pocket but will also be of good quality.
Weight
If you’re looking for an iron cast grill for daily use, you should go for a lightweight one as it could become a nuisance to carry a heavyweight grill pan daily. But if you’re looking for an option for the best cast iron grill pan for gas stoves or even electric tops, you won’t have to carry the grill pan every day from the stove to the table. Another recommended option is to get your grill pans fixed on countertops so whether they’re light or heavy, they wouldn’t be a nuisance anymore.
Heat source
A good heat source is a must-have if you want your meal to be cooked properly from all sides. Look for a cast iron grill pan that offers a spread of heat and preferably stays warm even after the heat is turned off. This way, your food can still serve warm food as the grill pan will remain warm for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the heat source.
Accessories
Most cast iron grill pans do not come with accessories, but the ones include cute silicone oven mitts for protection. One of the best cast iron grill plates comes with a wooden plate underneath them, which protects the pan’s surface as it is scalding.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best cast iron grill pan is Cuisinart’s 9.25 inches square grill pan. It is the best overall in terms of the features it offers. It provides the best and quick heating results and stays warm after the heat is turned off. Its porcelain interior earns points as it is the ideal interior for you in terms of cooking.
One of the best cast iron grill pan for gas stoves is the pre-seasoned Lodge cast iron grill pan, as it spreads equal heat to the food. Also, it can be easily placed on a gas stove without worry as it is suitable for all stoves.
The best way to wash a cast iron grill is by hand. All you need to do is use a small amount of soap and rinse the pan thoroughly. If stubborn food is stuck on the pan, you can use a pan scraper or boiled water to wash the grill pan.
There are no limitations in cooking in a cast iron grill pan. You can quickly cook or even bake various dishes in it without a single worrying thought. The choice of those different dishes includes hamburgers, steaks, fried chicken, pan pizza, and pancakes.
The Bottom Line
Getting the best cast iron grill pan will improve and aid your cooking and add a flavor to your food while eating healthy without any additional fats. All the cast iron grills mentioned above offer promising unique features in a budget-friendly range, which you shouldn’t miss.
We have detailed our reviews on the top seven picks, but the choice is yours! After considering all the factors, you should choose which grill pan suits you the best. But wait, here’s our recommendation, the Cuisinart’s 9.25″ Square Grill Pan, which is the perfect solution for all your cooking needs.
