Top 10 Cast Iron Griddles, Skillets, and Pans
- by Dino Paccino
- Last Updated: February 21, 2023
Are you looking for the best cast iron griddle to complement your cookware collection? While this may seem like a fairly straightforward purchase, the large number of options can be overwhelming, making the decision significantly more difficult than you may have expected.
Luckily, being the kitchen experts that we are, we know quite a bit about cast iron griddles, legend cookware reviews
,how to cook steak on a griddle and have used this knowledge to compile a list of the top options available. Be sure to also check our reviews for the best oven safe skillet in the market and home cooking statistics 2021!
Our Top Cast Iron Griddles, Skillets, And Pan Picks
- 1. Best Value - Lodge Pre Seasoned Griddle
- 2. Best Oversized - Camp Chef Cast Iron Griddle
- 3. Best Shallow Edge - Lodge Cast Iron Griddle Pan
- 4. Best Capacity - Legend 20" Reversible
- 5. Best Oven-Safe - Cuisinart 10 Inch Cast Iron Griddle Pan
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1. Legend 20" Reversible Cast Iron Griddle
With its 20 inch grill surface, this griddle pan fits perfectly over two stove burners and is safe to use in the oven, over hot coals, and even an open flame. That being said, because of the raised edges, this cast iron griddle is not suitable for use over an induction oven, which may be a deal-breaker for some.
If you’re looking for a durable, highly-versatile cast iron griddle, this product from Legend is one of the best around. As you may have guessed from the name, this piece of cast iron cookware is reversible, with one side functioning as a griddle and the other as a grill.
Moreover, with its 20-inch grill surface, this griddle pan fits perfectly over two stove burners and is safe to use in the oven, over hot coals, and even an open flame. That being said, because of the raised edges, this cast iron griddle is not suitable for use over an induction oven, which may be a deal-breaker for some.
Pros
- Large 20" x 10" cooking surface fits nicely over two burners
- Comes pre seasoned and equipped with easy-grip handles
- Fully reversible, containing both a grill side and a smooth side
- Safe to use over a variety of heat sources
Cons
- Doesn't work well over an induction stove top
2. Lodge Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Reversible Griddle
ith over 200 years of experience, Lodge is one of the oldest American manufactures of cast iron skillets and frying pans, and their expertise is easy to note in this 9.5″ x 16.75″ griddle pan. With its top-quality construction and a price tag of under $30, it’s easy to see why many people consider it to be one of the dollar-for-dollar best cast iron griddles on the market
Filling in the runner-up position is a reversible griddle by Lodge, a popular manufacturer of both carbon steel and cast iron cookware. Unlike the previous model we looked at, this pan takes on a simpler design, with the two handles sitting diagonally across from one another at opposite ends of the pan. While this does maximize space more effectively, the handle placement may prove awkward when it comes time to move the pan in and out of the oven.
Still, with over 200 years of experience, Lodge is one of the oldest American manufactures of cast iron skillets and frying pans, and their expertise is easy to note in this 9.5″ x 16.75″ griddle pan. With its top-quality construction and a price tag of under $30, it’s easy to see why many people consider it to be one of the dollar-for-dollar best cast iron griddles on the market.
Pros
- Comes pre seasoned with 1% natural vegetable oil
- Oven safe up to 500F
- Great heat retention
- Is reversible, coming equipped with both a griddle and flat surface
Cons
- Handle location can be awkward
3. Camp Chef Cast Iron Griddle
Upon first viewing, one thing that stands out about this pre seasoned cast iron griddle is its size. At 16″ x 24″, it provides an extra large amount of cooking space, making it one of the best oversized cast iron griddles on the market.
Next up, we have a heavy duty reversible griddle by Camp Chef, a company that has been producing quality cookware since 1990. Upon first viewing, one thing that stands out about this pre seasoned cast iron griddle is its size. At 16″ x 24″, it provides an extra large amount of cooking space, making it one of the best oversized cast iron griddles on the market.
On top of all this, the price is very affordable, and its thickness gives it excellent heat distribution and retention, allowing you to easily cook anything from bacon, steak, grilled sandwiches, and much more.
Pros
- Pre seasoned
- extra large 16" x 24" cooking surface
- Very heavy duty and safe to use over any heat source including an induction stove top
- Safe to use with metal utensils
Cons
- Because of its extra thickness, the griddle weight close to 15 pounds, which may be too heavy for some
4. Lodge Cast Iron Griddle Pan
If you’re looking for a good cast iron skillet with low sides, this 10.5 inch pan by Lodge is worthy of some serious consideration. Aside from the top-notch quality one can expect of all USA-made Lodge products, this cast iron skillet is safe to use with various heat sources, including gas stove tops, oven, and even an open campfire. What’s more, this skillet comes perfectly pre seasoned and is backed by Lodge’s lifetime warranty.
If you’re looking for a good cast iron skillet with low sides, this 10.5 inch pan by Lodge is worthy of some serious consideration. Aside from the top-notch quality one can expect of all USA-made Lodge products, this cast iron skillet is safe to use with various heat sources, including gas stove tops, oven, and even an open campfire. What’s more, this skillet comes perfectly pre seasoned and is backed by Lodge’s lifetime warranty.
That being said, because the edges of the pan are only about half an inch in height, there are some limitations on what you can do with it. For example, cooking with anything more than a thin layer of oil will likely prove messy, and some items such as sauces or anything that gives off plenty of excess fat will be next to impossible to cook properly.
Pros
- Safe to use over a variety of heat sources
- Oven and campfire safe
- Made in the USA
- Comes perfectly pre seasoned
Cons
- Low sides make it impractical to cook a variety of food
5. Cuisinart 10 Inch Cast Iron Griddle Pan
Its unorthodox design makes it perfect for searing and sautéing a large variety of food, ensuring all the flavor and juices stay locked in. That being said, with a height of nearly three inches, the high walls might make cooking some dishes difficult.
If you liked the idea of the last item but want something with higher edges, this 10 inch cast iron skillet is just what you need. Aside from being very affordable, the pan comes equipped with two large handles, making it easy to move around or take in and out of the oven.
What’s more, its unorthodox design makes it perfect for searing and sautéing a large variety of food, ensuring all the flavor and juices stay locked in. That being said, with a height of nearly three inches, the high walls might make cooking some dishes difficult.
Pros
- High edges make the pan perfect for searing and sautéing
- Comes pre seasoned with a nonstick coating
- Oven safe
- Equipped with two large handles for easy handling
Cons
- 10 inch diameter might be too small for some people
- The high edges may make cooking some foods impractical
6. Back Country Cast Iron Griddle
Like most other cast iron griddles, this model is fully reversible and comes pre seasoned with Black Country’s proprietary oil blend, meaning this piece of cast iron cookware is ready to use right away.
If you have a flat top grill and you’re looking for the perfect cast iron skillet to go along with it, this offering by Back Country is an excellent choice. Measuring in at 20″ x 9″, it will fit nicely over two gas burners and even comes equipped with two large handles making it easy to maneuver.
Like most other cast iron griddles, this model is fully reversible and comes pre seasoned with Black Country’s proprietary oil blend, meaning this piece of cast iron cookware is ready to use right away.
Pros
- Professional grade cast iron griddle
- Fully reversible Grill/Griddle combo
- Oven safe
Cons
- Noticeably more expensive than many other options
7. Lodge LSRG3 Cast Iron Griddle
The next item on our list (which happens to be another quality product by Lodge) is a 10.5 inch single burner griddle pan.
The next item on our list (which happens to be another quality product by Lodge) is a 10.5 inch single burner griddle pan. While the size may be underwhelming for some, it’s a great option to use over a single burner gas stove like the ones commonly used during camping. Moreover, because of its cast iron construction, this cast iron griddle is perfectly safe to use in the oven and even an open flame.
Pros
- Fully reversible Grill/Griddle combo
- Built by Lodge, a company known for producing high quality cast iron cookware
- Fitted with two easy to grip handles
- Works well with a single burner camping stove
Cons
- Not suitable for an induction stove
- Same price as many other models twice the size
8. Home Complete 14 Inch Cast iron Skillet
Coming pre seasoned, the nonstick surface is excellent for baking pizzas, and the cast iron griddle is oven safe at temperatures as high as 500F.
Although they may not be as recognizable as Lodge or Legend, Home Complete has been coming out with its fair share of quality cast iron cookware in recent years, and while they offer several items worth mentioning, their 14 inch pizza pan is perhaps the most worthy of praise.
Coming pre seasoned, the nonstick surface is excellent for baking pizzas, and the cast iron griddle is oven safe at temperatures as high as 500F. In addition, unlike many of the products we have looked at so far, the flat bottom makes this griddle pan a good fit for induction stovetops.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Comes pre seasoned
- Good cast iron pan for making pizzas
- Works excellent on induction stovetops
Cons
- Although the description says 14 inches, the griddle pan measures closer to 13.5 inches
- Not suitable for cooling a wide variety of food items
9. Camp Chef Cast Iron Reversible Griddle Surface
Are you looking for the best cast iron griddle for outdoor use? If so, Camp Chef has you covered. Measuring in at 14″ x 16″, this cast iron griddle provides more than enough space to cook burgers, hot dogs, vegetables, and much more – and while it works perfectly in the oven or over gas stoves- it’s one of the best options to use over a camp fire or outdoor gas grill.
Are you looking for the best cast iron griddle for outdoor use? If so, Camp Chef has you covered. Measuring in at 14″ x 16″, this cast iron griddle provides more than enough space to cook burgers, hot dogs, vegetables, and much more – and while it works perfectly in the oven or over gas stoves- it’s one of the best options to use over a camp fire or outdoor gas grill.
That being said, because this cast iron griddle is slightly larger than most other single burner pans, it wont work with every outdoor gas grill. If you already have an outdoor grill you’re hoping to use this item with, make sure it will fit before completing your purchase.
Pros
- Extra large cooking space for a single burner grill
- Cast iron construction gives it excellent heat retention
- Fully reversible with both a grill and griddle side
- Comes pre seasoned
Cons
- Because of the larger than average dimension, it might not fit with all outdoor gas stove
- Some may feel the price is a little steep for a single burner cast iron griddle
10. NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Griddl
This offering from NutriChef is one of the best cast iron griddles in its price range and is an excellent option for anything looking to add a reversible cast iron griddle to their cooking arsenal without spending a ton of money.
Rounding out our top 10 is a reversible cast iron grill by NurtriChef. As we can see from the photo, this product from NurtriChef takes on a much more simplistic style than other reversible griddles we have seen so far and is safe to use on a variety of heat sources, including gas stovetop, oven, BBQ, and campfire. However, although the company claims the product is safe to use on induction stove tops, user reviews indicate the opposite. Depending on the type of sensor your induction stove top uses, the raised edges of the cast iron griddle may stop the stove from detecting anything on it, meaning it won’t heat up.
Still, this offering from NutriChef is one of the best cast iron griddles in its price range and is an excellent option for anything looking to add a reversible cast iron griddle to their cooking arsenal without spending a ton of money.
Pros
- Reversible
- Safe to use over a variety of heat sources, glass stovetop included
- Comes pre seasoned
- A much more elegant design compared to most griddles
- Large 18" x 10" cooking surface
Cons
- Can't be used over most induction stove tops
- Handle position may make it awkward to move the pan in and out of the oven
FAQS
Why should I buy cast iron cookware?
Although cast iron griddles require more maintenance than their stainless steel counterparts, they have many advantages. First off, cast iron is the superior heat conductor, meaning they stay hotter for longer and don’t fluctuate in temperature as quickly. Secondly, while stainless steel pans are built to last, cast iron pans will last a lifetime when properly cared for, something not offered by any other material. Lastly, a correctly seasoned cast iron pan will maintain its non stick properties for a lifetime, something that cannot be said about stainless steel.
Do all cast iron griddles come pre seasoned?
Unlike carbon steel griddles, most cast iron griddles come pre seasoned and ready to use out of the box. That being said, many people feel it’s worth taking the time to strengthen seasoning before use.
How do I season cast iron?
In simple terms, seasoning involves baking oil into the pan to create a hydrophilic layer called a patina, that acts as a nonstick coating and shields the pan from rust-causing moisture. This process works because cast iron is porous, allowing oils to penetrate and bind to the metal in a process known as polymerization.
Seasoning cast iron involves covering the pan in a thin layer of vegetable oil (flax seed oil works as well) and placing it in the oven for several hours. When this is done, the oil becomes baked into the cast iron, creating the patina.
Can I put my cast iron griddle in the dishwasher?
The most common complaint people have about their cast iron griddle is that it rusts after just a few uses. When this occurs, the culprit is rarely the pan, and more often than not, it’s a result of how the cast iron griddle was washed.
Contrary to what some manufacturers state, cast iron skillets and griddles are not dishwasher safe. When placed in the dishwasher, the soap removes the patina, meaning the pan is no longer protected from rust.
How do I clean my cast iron griddle?
Cleaning cast iron griddle is a job in itself!
Once you’re done cooking, and the pan has cooled down to a temperature where you can safely handle it, run the cast iron grill or griddle under warm water while scrubbing it with a lint free cloth or sponge. Once you’ve removed all food bits and extra grease, dry off the pan using a cloth or paper towel. If the pan has some particularly difficult bits to remove, you can use a small amount of mild dish soap to help.
Once dried off with a cloth or paper towel, place the pan on a stove top burner over medium heat to ensure all moisture is gone. When the pan is nice and dry, it’s time to oil and buff it, using a small amount of vegetable oil or seasoning wax. Don’t use too much oil at this stage, as the pan can only absorb so much.
At this point, you can either store the pan away until the next use or place it in the oven for 35 minutes, which helps to reaffirm the patina.
Can I use steel wool on my cast iron Griddle/Skillet?
No! Because of the rigged surface, steel wool is a very poor choice of material for washing cast iron cookware. Not only can it partially remove the patina, but it can also cause flaking, which many consider the start of the end when it comes to cast iron.
What stoves can I use with cast iron?
Because of its durability, cast iron can be used with any heat source without trouble. That being said, not every type of heat source agrees with cast iron. For example, while a cast iron griddle will have no issues operating on a glass stove top, the glass may be too easily damaged by the hefty cast iron, making it unsuitable. Similarly, as we have seen, induction stoves are only a good option for skillets that have a perfectly flat bottom, and griddles with edges or ridges won’t work very well or at all.
By now, not only should you be familiar with some of the best cast iron griddles on the market, but you should know enough about cast iron cookware to help you choose to the top pan, skillet, or griddle for you.
One thing we cannot stress enough is if you do plan on going the cast iron route, proper care and maintenance are imperative, as without it, the pan will quickly rust and become unusable.
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Dino Paccino
Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.
