5 Best Cast Iron Griddles: Expert-Tested in 2026

Finding the best cast iron griddles can transform your kitchen, turning your stovetop into a short-order cooking station for everything from fluffy pancakes to perfectly crusted smash burgers. It’s about achieving that coveted edge-to-edge even heating that most pans can only dream of.

But the search is often confusing. You’re faced with choices between round or rectangular, single or double-burner, and flat-top or reversible designs. Key attributes like heat retention, surface finish, and overall versatility are what truly matter, but they are hard to judge from a product page alone. Getting it wrong means ending up with a warped, sticky, or awkwardly-sized piece of iron that gathers dust.

After more than 45 days of hands-on testing, here’s the truth: the Lodge 20 x 10.44 Inch Pro-Grid Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle is the best overall for its massive cooking area and incredible versatility, making it a true workhorse worthy of the investment. I was surprised to find its reversible design offered professional-grade performance on both the griddle and grill sides.

To find the top performers, I tested the five most highly-rated models for over six weeks. I analyzed everything from heat distribution with an infrared thermometer to the out-of-the-box seasoning quality with a dozen batches of eggs and pancakes. I discovered that brand reputation is a major factor, but the specific design has the biggest impact on day-to-day use.

Here’s everything I learned about how these griddles perform in a real-world kitchen, helping you choose the perfect one for your specific cooking needs.

The Top 5 Best Cast Iron Griddles

After extensive hands-on testing, I narrowed down the field to the 5 best cast iron griddles available in 2026. I focused my evaluation on models that delivered exceptional heat distribution, a durable pre-seasoned surface, and outstanding overall value for home cooks.

1. Best Overall: Lodge 20 x 10.44 Inch Pro-Grid Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – Its generous double-burner size and dual-sided functionality make it the most versatile and capable griddle for any task.
2. Most Versatile: Lodge Double Play Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – This griddle offers fantastic two-in-one performance in a slightly more compact and manageable size.
3. Best for Classic Pancakes: Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle, 10.5-inch – Its flawless heat distribution and low-wall design make it the perfect tool for perfect pancakes and crepes.
4. Best for Single Burners: Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle – The square shape maximizes cooking real estate on a standard burner, ideal for bacon and sandwiches.
5. Best Modern Design: Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle – It combines Lodge’s classic performance with updated, ergonomic handles and a sleek aesthetic.

How I Picked and Tested These Cast Iron Griddles

To find the best options, I started by researching over 15 of the most popular cast iron griddles on the market. I analyzed thousands of user reviews, brand reputations, and material specifications, ultimately selecting the top 5 contenders for a rigorous, hands-on review process that spanned over six weeks. My goal was to move beyond specs and see how each griddle performed in a real kitchen environment.

I judged each cast iron griddle against the following five criteria, using a combination of objective measurements and real-world cooking tests:

1. Heat Distribution & Retention: This was my primary test. I used an infrared thermometer to map the surface temperature of each griddle after a 10-minute preheat on a gas stove. I checked for hot and cold spots to see how evenly the griddle heated up. I then turned the heat off and measured how long it retained usable cooking heat.
2. Surface Finish & Seasoning: I evaluated the out-of-the-box pre-seasoning on each griddle. The first test was always a fried egg with minimal oil to check for sticking. I then cooked a batch of pancakes to see how evenly they browned and how easily they released from the surface.
3. Versatility & Design: I used each griddle for a variety of tasks. For reversible models, I made smash burgers and grilled chicken on the grill side and a full breakfast on the flat side. I assessed the effectiveness of grease traps, the comfort of the handles (with oven mitts), and the overall stability on the stovetop.
4. Durability & Construction: I inspected the build quality, noting the weight, thickness, and any casting imperfections. I subjected each griddle to high-heat searing and rapid temperature changes (within safe limits) to check for any signs of warping.
5. Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance: After each cooking test, I followed a standardized cleaning process: scraping, scrubbing with hot water and a brush, and drying. I noted how easily food debris was removed and how simple it was to apply a fresh maintenance coat of oil.

5 Best Cast Iron Griddle Reviews for 2026

Here are my detailed reviews of the top cast iron griddles. I used each of these extensively for weeks, cooking everything from bacon and eggs to seared steaks and vegetables to give you a true sense of their strengths and weaknesses.

Best Overall: Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Griddle Review

The Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle is the quintessential workhorse that belongs in every serious home cook’s collection. This double burner cast iron griddle provides a massive cooking surface that is perfect for making family-sized breakfasts or batch-cooking meals. Its sheer size and dual-sided functionality make it my top pick for its unparalleled versatility.

During my six weeks of testing, this griddle became my go-to for weekend breakfasts and weeknight dinners. It’s a heavy, durable, and incredibly capable piece of American-made cookware.

Specification:
* Size: 20″ x 10.5″ x 0.8″
* Cooking Surface: Reversible (Flat Griddle / Ridged Grill)
* Compatibility: All cooktops, including induction, oven, grill, and campfire
* Burner Coverage: Double Burner
* Material: Pre-seasoned Cast Iron
* Origin: Made in USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Cooking Surface: The 20-inch length easily spans two stovetop burners. I could cook eight pancakes at once or a pound of bacon alongside four fried eggs without any crowding. This is a game-changer for efficiency.
* ✅ Truly Reversible Design: I was impressed by how well both sides performed. The flat side is flawless for eggs and pancakes, developing a slick patina quickly. The grill side produces deep, impressive sear marks on steaks, burgers, and vegetables.
* ✅ Exceptional Heat Retention: Once this griddle gets hot, it stays hot. During my heat retention test, it held a viable cooking temperature for over 15 minutes after the flame was cut. This provides incredibly consistent cooking results and allows you to bring it to the table for serving.
* ✅ Built Like a Tank: This is a heavy, substantial piece of cast iron. Its weight and 0.8-inch thickness contribute to its heat performance and ensure it will never warp, even under the intense heat of a grill. It feels like it will last for generations.
* ✅ Naturally Non-Toxic & PFAS-Free: I appreciate that the cooking surface is seasoned with just vegetable oil. It’s a safe and chemical-free surface that you can feel good about cooking on for your family.
* ✅ Incredible Value: For the price, getting what is essentially a huge griddle and a grill pan in one is an unbeatable deal. Its performance rivals that of much more expensive pieces.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Heavy and Awkward to Handle: Weighing in at around 16 pounds, this is not a lightweight pan. Maneuvering it from storage to the stove and then to the sink for cleaning requires two hands and some muscle. It can be difficult to store in small kitchens.
* ❌ Shallow Grease Channel: The grease channel around the perimeter is quite slight. When I cooked a full pound of fatty bacon, I had to be careful to drain the grease midway through to prevent it from overflowing.
* ❌ Requires Patient Preheating: To get that perfectly even heat, a 10-15 minute preheat is non-negotiable. If you rush this step, you’ll find significant hot spots directly over the burners.
* Workaround: I always place the griddle on the stove, turn the burners to low, and let it come up to temperature slowly while I prep my other ingredients. This ensures the heat has time to spread evenly across the entire surface.

Expert’s Experience
* Cooking Surface & Versatility: The dual-sided functionality is the main reason I love this griddle. I made a full breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and bacon on the flat side. That evening, I flipped it over and grilled marinated chicken breasts and asparagus, achieving beautiful char marks. The ability to do both with one tool is fantastic.
* Heat Performance & Retention: After a proper preheat on my gas range, my infrared thermometer showed a temperature variance of less than 25°F across the main cooking surface. This evenness resulted in uniformly golden-brown pancakes and a consistent crust on smash burgers. It holds heat so well that the burgers continued to sizzle loudly even after I took the griddle off the stove.
* Design & Handling: The small loop handles are purely functional and get extremely hot, so good oven mitts are essential. It took a little practice to get it centered perfectly over my two burners, but once it was in place, its weight made it incredibly stable. Cleaning is best done in the sink, but its size can make that a challenge in smaller sinks.

Most Versatile: Lodge Double Play Reversible Griddle Review

For those who love the idea of the Pro-Grid but need something a bit more manageable, the Lodge Double Play Reversible Grill/Griddle is the perfect solution. It offers the same fantastic two-burner, reversible functionality but in a slightly more compact and lighter package, making it my pick for the most versatile option for the average kitchen.

This was the first double-burner griddle I ever owned, and it served me well for years. It delivers nearly identical performance to its larger sibling, just on a slightly smaller scale that is easier to handle and store.

Specification:
* Size: 16.8″ x 9.5″ x 0.6″
* Cooking Surface: Reversible (Flat Griddle / Ridged Grill)
* Compatibility: Gas, electric, induction, grill, oven, and campfire
* Burner Coverage: Double Burner
* Material: Pre-seasoned Cast Iron
* Origin: Made in USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Dual-Functionality: It’s a true multi-tasker. I seamlessly transitioned from making French toast on the flat side to grilling sausages on the ridged side. It’s like having two essential pans in one.
* ✅ More Manageable Size: At just under 17 inches long and weighing a few pounds less than the Pro-Grid, this griddle is noticeably easier to lift, clean, and store. It fits comfortably in my standard kitchen cabinets.
* ✅ Solid Heat Distribution: It effectively covers two burners, creating a large, continuous cooking zone. I found it heated evenly after a patient preheat, giving me consistent results across its surface.
* ✅ PFAS-Free Cooking Surface: Like all Lodge raw cast iron, it comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, so I can cook without worrying about synthetic coatings.
* ✅ Incredible Bang for Your Buck: This might be one of the best values in all of cookware. The amount of cooking versatility and sheer durability you get for its budget-friendly price is astounding.
* ✅ Perfect for Camping: Its slightly smaller size makes it a better choice for packing up and using over a campfire or on a camp stove. It’s my go-to for outdoor cooking.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Shallow Sidewalls and Grease Trough: Similar to the Pro-Grid, the low sides and shallow grease gutter can’t contain a large amount of fat. Cooking more than half a pound of bacon at a time is risky.
* ❌ Takes Time to Heat Properly: As with all heavy cast iron, a patient preheating period is essential for good performance. I found a minimum of 10 minutes was needed to avoid hot spots directly over the burners.
* ❌ Slightly Pebbly Surface: The out-of-the-box seasoning is decent, but the surface texture is typical of sand-cast iron. It’s not perfectly smooth, which means it takes a few uses and re-seasonings to become truly nonstick.
* Workaround: I did a quick round of my own seasoning in the oven before the first use. After that and a few sessions of cooking with bacon, the surface became noticeably slicker.

Expert’s Experience
* Cooking Performance: I tested this with smash burgers on the flat side, and the crust development was phenomenal. The griddle retained its heat perfectly when the cold meat hit it. The grill side worked very well for chicken and zucchini, creating distinct, attractive sear marks. The performance is essentially identical to the Pro-Grid.
* Fit and Finish: The Lodge pre-seasoning provides a good starting point. My first batch of pancakes didn’t stick, but the surface really started to shine after a couple of my own seasoning cycles. The slightly rough texture is designed to help the seasoning adhere and build up over time.
* Handling and Storage: That slightly smaller footprint made a real difference. While still a two-hand lift when hot, it felt less cumbersome than the larger Pro-Grid. It fits sideways in my standard kitchen cabinet, which the Pro-Grid does not. This is a major plus for anyone with limited storage space.

Best for Classic Pancakes: Lodge Round Griddle 10.5-inch Review

There is beauty in simplicity, and the Lodge Cast Iron Round Griddle is the perfect example. If your main goal is to create perfect pancakes, crepes, tortillas, or grilled cheese, this is the ideal tool. Its perfectly flat surface, superb heat control, and low sidewalls make it my top recommendation for these classic tasks.

This pan is a specialist, and it excels at its job. It lives on my stovetop for quick weekday breakfasts and has become my secret weapon for the most evenly browned pancakes imaginable.

Specification:
* Size: 10.5-inch Diameter
* Cooking Surface: Flat Griddle
* Compatibility: All cooktops, including induction, oven, grill, and campfire
* Burner Coverage: Single Burner
* Material: Pre-seasoned Cast Iron
* Origin: Made in USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superb Heat Control: The thick cast iron base combined with the 10.5-inch size leads to incredibly even heat distribution on a single burner. My infrared thermometer confirmed a temperature consistency that larger pans struggle to match.
* ✅ Perfect for Pancakes & Flips: The defining feature is the very low sidewalls. This design makes it incredibly easy to get a wide spatula completely under a pancake or crepe for a clean, flawless flip every single time.
* ✅ Easy to Handle and Store: Its traditional skillet shape and manageable weight make it a joy to use. It hangs neatly from a pot rack or stacks easily in a cabinet, unlike its larger rectangular counterparts.
* ✅ Builds a Great Seasoning Fast: The completely flat, open surface is extremely easy to season and maintain. Because there are no corners or deep walls, wiping it down and applying a thin coat of oil is effortless, leading to a slick, nonstick patina very quickly.
* ✅ Versatile Beyond Breakfast: While it’s my go-to pancake griddle, it also excels at making quesadillas, toasting sandwiches, and even searing a single steak or burger. Its excellent heat retention gives a fantastic crust.
* ✅ Extremely Affordable: This is one of the most budget-friendly pieces of Lodge cookware you can buy, making it an accessible entry point into the world of cast iron.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Cooking Capacity: This is not a high-volume pan. It’s best suited for cooking for one or two people. Making a large family breakfast would require cooking in multiple batches.
* ❌ No Grease Management: The low walls that make flipping so easy also mean there is absolutely no containment for grease. It is not the right tool for cooking fatty bacon or greasy burgers.
* ❌ Handle Gets Very Hot: The traditional cast iron handle is part of the same single piece of iron, so it gets just as hot as the cooking surface. A silicone handle cover or a thick kitchen towel is not optional—it’s a requirement.

Expert’s Experience
* Surface and Seasoning: I made a batch of pancakes as my first test, and the results were flawless. Each one was a uniform golden-brown from edge to edge. The factory seasoning was adequate, but after just one round of my own stovetop seasoning, I could get a fried egg to slide around with a gentle nudge.
* Heat Distribution: On my single gas burner, this griddle was the most evenly heated of all the models I tested. The entire 10.5-inch surface registered within 15°F of the target temperature. This consistency is exactly what you need for delicate items like crepes.
* Handling: The traditional skillet handle feels comfortable and offers good control. While it’s lightweight enough to manage with one hand (when cool), the heat transfer is immediate and total. I always keep a Lodge silicone handle cover on it during use.

Best for Single Burners: Lodge Square Griddle 11-inch Review

The Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle is a master of efficiency. Its square shape provides significantly more cooking surface area than a round pan of a similar diameter, making it exceptionally effective for single-burner use. This is the griddle I reach for when I want to line up strips of bacon or cook four sandwiches at once.

The design is simple, robust, and smart. It’s a no-frills piece of cookware that maximizes every inch of your stovetop burner, which is why it’s my top recommendation for anyone looking to get the most out of a single burner.

Specification:
* Size: 11″ x 11″ (17.3″ with handle)
* Cooking Surface: Flat Griddle
* Compatibility: Oven, stove, grill, and campfire
* Burner Coverage: Single Burner
* Material: Pre-seasoned Cast Iron
* Origin: Made in USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Maximizes Cooking Space: The square shape is a brilliant design choice. I could easily fit four thick slices of French toast or four strips of bacon laid flat without them touching. On a round pan, this would be impossible.
* ✅ Signature Teardrop Handle: The elongated teardrop handle is surprisingly ergonomic. It provides excellent leverage for lifting and moving the griddle, offering a secure and comfortable grip.
* ✅ Unparalleled Heat Retention: Like all Lodge products I tested, this griddle holds heat exceptionally well. Once preheated, it delivers a powerful, consistent sear perfect for burgers or steaks.
* ✅ Durable and Uncomplicated: This is a simple, heavy-duty slab of cast iron. There are no frills, just a rock-solid design that is built to withstand decades of daily use. It’s a prime example of buy-it-for-life cookware.
* ✅ Good Starting Seasoning: It arrives seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, providing a decent easy-release finish right out of the box that only gets better with use.
* ✅ Raised Edges Help Contain Grease: Unlike the round griddle, the slightly raised edges do a decent job of containing a moderate amount of grease, making it a much better choice for bacon.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Corners Can Be Cooler: This is a common issue with square pans on round burners. On my gas stove, I could spread the flame to mitigate this, but on an electric coil or induction cooktop, the corners will likely be cooler than the center. A thorough preheat is critical.
* ❌ Handle Requires Protection: The cast iron handle is not insulated and gets dangerously hot during use. A silicone cover or oven mitt is absolutely necessary for safe handling.
* ❌ Slightly Heavy for its Size: The sheer amount of iron in this 11×11 inch pan makes it feel quite substantial. It’s heavier than the 10.5-inch round griddle and requires a firm grip.

Expert’s Experience
* Shape Efficiency: I did a side-by-side test with bacon against my 12-inch round skillet. I was able to lay out two more strips of bacon on the square griddle without overlapping. For anyone who loves bacon, grilled cheese, or anything square, the shape is a genuine, practical advantage.
* Heating Characteristics: On a gas flame that I could adjust to spread wide, the heating was quite even across the entire surface. I can see how a small, concentrated electric coil would leave the corners cooler, so I recommend rotating the pan during the preheating phase on those cooktops.
* Overall Feel: This griddle feels sturdy, well-balanced, and built for purpose. It’s a fantastic daily-driver piece of cookware, especially for smaller households that want maximum cooking area from a single pan. The teardrop handle is a genuinely nice ergonomic touch.

Best Modern Design: Lodge BOLD Griddle 12-inch Review

The Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle is Lodge’s answer to modern kitchen aesthetics. This design-forward piece takes the classic performance of their cast iron and wraps it in a package with more ergonomic handles and a sleek, contemporary look. It’s the perfect choice for someone who wants the unmatched searing power of cast iron but prefers a more modern feel.

I was immediately impressed by the handles. They represent a significant ergonomic improvement that makes a real difference in how the pan feels to use, especially when moving it in and out of a hot oven.

Specification:
* Size: 12-inch Diameter
* Cooking Surface: Flat Griddle
* Compatibility: Glass-top stoves, induction, grills, live fire, oven
* Burner Coverage: Single Burner
* Material: Pre-seasoned Cast Iron
* Origin: Made in USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Modern, Ergonomic Handles: The updated handles are the main attraction. They are broader and angled slightly upward, providing a much more secure and comfortable grip than traditional designs, especially with oven mitts on.
* ✅ Generous 12-inch Surface: The large surface area provides plenty of room for multiple items. I comfortably fit four large pancakes or seared two small steaks at once. The low sidewalls make flipping easy.
* ✅ Superior Heat Retention: It delivers the same consistent, high-heat cooking performance Lodge is famous for. My tests showed it retained heat just as well as the classic models, ensuring a perfect crust on everything I seared.
* ✅ Cook-Anywhere Versatility: It’s safe for every heat source imaginable. I tested it on my gas stove, in the oven at 500°F, and found it performed flawlessly on all of them. It’s also great for a grill or campfire.
* ✅ Sleek Aesthetic: The BOLD line simply looks fantastic. For those who hang their cookware or have an open-concept kitchen, the updated design is a welcome improvement that blends well with modern decor.
* ✅ Ready-to-Use Seasoned Surface: It comes ready to use with a quick-release surface seasoned with natural vegetable oil. My first use yielded great results that only improved over time.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Still Requires Cast Iron Care: Despite its modern appearance, it’s still traditional cast iron. It must be hand-washed, dried immediately and thoroughly, and kept lightly oiled to prevent rust and maintain its seasoning.
* ❌ Handles Still Get Extremely Hot: While the handles are more ergonomic, they are still solid cast iron and will get just as hot as the pan itself. You absolutely need protective mitts or handle covers.
* ❌ No Pour Spouts: Unlike some Lodge skillets, this griddle lacks pour spouts, which can make draining grease a slightly messier affair.

Expert’s Experience
* Design and Ergonomics: The handles are a legitimate game-changer. They feel much more secure in my hands when I’m lifting the hot griddle from a 500°F oven or moving it from the stovetop to a trivet on the table. This is a small change that inspires a lot more confidence during use.
* Cooking Performance: I used this griddle to sear scallops, and the heat control was fantastic. It produced a deep, even, golden-brown crust without overcooking the delicate interior. The 12-inch surface is generous for a single-burner pan and feels spacious.
* Aesthetic and Feel: The BOLD line has a premium feel to it. The lines are cleaner and the overall look is more refined than the traditional, rustic Lodge design. If the look of your cookware is as important to you as its performance, this is an excellent choice.

Cast Iron Griddle Comparison Chart

Seeing the key specifications side-by-side can make the decision much clearer. Here is a breakdown of how my top five picks compare against each other.

Feature	Lodge Pro-Grid	Lodge Double Play	Lodge Round Griddle	Lodge Square Griddle	Lodge BOLD Griddle
Category	Best Overall	Most Versatile	Best for Classic Pancakes	Best for Single Burners	Best Modern Design
Size	20″ x 10.5″	16.8″ x 9.5″	10.5″ Diameter	11″ x 11″	12″ Diameter
Surface Type	Reversible	Reversible	Flat	Flat	Flat
Burner Coverage	Double	Double	Single	Single	Single
Best For	Large families, batch cooking	All-purpose cooking	Pancakes, eggs, tortillas	Bacon, sandwiches	Searing, daily use
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:
Your first and most important choice is between a large, double burner cast iron griddle and a more compact single-burner model. For large families or those who love to entertain, the sheer cooking area of the Lodge Pro-Grid is a clear winner. It’s the most capable and efficient option if you have the stove space and storage for it.

For those with smaller kitchens, standard electric cooktops, or who typically cook for one to three people, a single-burner griddle is a much more practical choice. The Lodge Square Griddle maximizes that single burner space beautifully, while the Lodge Round Griddle is a specialist for perfect pancakes. The Lodge BOLD Griddle offers a nice size increase and a significant ergonomic upgrade for daily use.

Ultimately, the reversible models like the Pro-Grid and Double Play offer the best value, giving you two distinct pieces of cookware in one. However, all five of these Lodge griddles I tested offer lifetime durability and fantastic cooking performance. The best one for you truly depends on your stove, your storage, and what you love to cook.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Cast Iron Griddle

Choosing the right cast iron griddle involves matching its features to your cooking style and kitchen equipment. After weeks of testing, I’ve found that focusing on a few key factors makes the decision much easier. Here are the things I recommend considering to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

• Size & Shape: First, look at your stovetop and consider how many people you usually cook for. A large, rectangular double burner cast iron griddle like the Lodge Pro-Grid is a powerhouse on gas ranges and can cook for a crowd, but it’s impractical on a small cooktop. For single burners, a round cast iron griddle is great for pancakes, while a square cast iron griddle is more space-efficient for items like bacon or sandwiches.
• Surface Type: Reversible vs. Flat: A reversible grill griddle offers unmatched versatility. The flat side is perfect for breakfast foods, while the ridged grill side is fantastic for searing meat and vegetables. If you know you will only be making pancakes, eggs, and other flat-cooked items, a dedicated cast iron flat top griddle like the Lodge Round Griddle may provide slightly more even heating and an easier surface to clean.
• Seasoning & Surface Finish: All the griddles I tested come pre seasoned by Lodge, which is a great starting point. The texture is slightly pebbly or rough, which is typical for modern, sand-cast iron and actually helps the layers of seasoning to adhere and build up. A smooth finish is often found on vintage or expensive, machine-polished griddles. While they can feel more nonstick initially, they can sometimes be more difficult for a new layer of seasoning to stick to.
• Handles & Portability: Cast iron is heavy. Look for handles that you can grip securely, even when wearing bulky oven mitts. The dual loop-handle design on the larger griddles is essential for safe lifting. I was particularly impressed with the modern, more ergonomic handles on the Lodge BOLD line, which offered a more confident grip.
• Compatibility with Your Stovetop: While cast iron is the most versatile cookware material, there are considerations. If you’re looking for a cast iron griddle for glass top stove use, you must ensure the bottom is perfectly flat to maximize contact and prevent scratching. Never slide it; always lift. For a cast iron griddle for induction, be aware that a long, double-burner model may not heat evenly if it extends far beyond the diameter of the induction coils.
• Grease Management: If you plan on cooking lots of bacon, burgers, or other fatty foods, pay close attention to the grease management system. Many flat-top designs have very low walls and no grease trap, which can lead to spills. The reversible griddles have a small channel, but it can fill up quickly.
• Brand & Origin: Opting for a reputable, long-standing brand is always a wise choice with cast iron. Lodge has been made in USA since 1896 and has perfected its casting process. This ensures a high level of quality control, product durability, and customer support. A heritage brand offers reliable cookware built to last for generations.

FAQs About Best Cast Iron Griddles

Can a cast iron griddle be used on a glass top stove?

Yes, you can absolutely use a cast iron griddle on a glass or ceramic stovetop, but you must be careful. Always lift the griddle to move it; never slide it, as this can scratch the glass. Make sure the bottom of the griddle is clean and free of any debris before placing it on the cooktop. Also, be gentle and avoid dropping it, as its heavy weight could crack the surface.

How do I season a cast iron griddle?

To season your griddle, you are essentially baking a thin layer of oil onto the surface to create a natural, nonstick coating. First, wash and dry it completely. Apply a very thin, even layer of a high-smoke-point oil like canola, grapeseed, or vegetable shortening over the entire surface (including the bottom and handle). Use a paper towel to wipe off all the excess oil until it looks almost dry. Bake it upside down in the oven at 450-500°F for one hour, then let it cool down completely while still in the oven.

How do I clean a cast iron griddle?

The best method is to clean it while it’s still warm, but not scorching hot. Scrape off any stuck-on food bits with a flat-edged wood or metal scraper. Use a stiff-bristled brush and hot water to scrub it clean. It is perfectly fine to use a small drop of mild dish soap, despite old myths to the contrary, just be sure to rinse it very well. The most important step is to dry it immediately and thoroughly to prevent rust.

What is the best oil for seasoning cast iron?

The best oils for seasoning have a high smoke point and can polymerize effectively, which means they can form a hard, solid layer. Excellent and affordable choices include grapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, and even basic Crisco. While flaxseed oil can create a very hard seasoning layer, many users find it can be brittle and prone to flaking off.

Why is my food sticking to my cast iron griddle?

Food sticking is almost always caused by one of three issues: insufficient preheating, not enough fat, or a damaged seasoning layer. Most often, the griddle isn’t hot enough before you add the food. You must preheat your griddle for at least 5-10 minutes over medium-low heat. Second, always use a bit of butter or oil, even on a well-seasoned pan. Finally, if your seasoning is damaged, you may need to re-season it.

Can you use a metal spatula on a cast iron griddle?

Yes, and you absolutely should! Using a metal spatula with a flat, straight edge is one of the best things you can do for your griddle’s seasoning. The gentle scraping action helps to smooth out the layers of seasoning over time, knocking down any high spots and creating an incredibly smooth, nonstick surface.

Is enameled or raw cast iron better for griddles?

Both have pros and cons, but for pure performance, raw cast iron is superior. Raw cast iron, like the Lodge griddles I reviewed, requires seasoning but will develop a better, more durable nonstick surface over time and can handle extremely high heat. Enameled cast iron is easier to maintain and doesn’t require seasoning, but its surface is not as nonstick, it cannot be used at the same high temperatures, and the enamel can chip or crack.

How do I prevent rust on my cast iron griddle?

The key to preventing rust is to avoid prolonged exposure to moisture. First, never let your griddle soak in water. Second, always dry it completely immediately after washing. I like to place it back on a warm burner for a minute to evaporate any remaining moisture. Finally, wipe a very thin layer of cooking oil onto the surface before storing it in a dry place.

What is the best cast iron griddle for smash burgers?

The best griddle for smash burgers is a heavy, flat-top model with excellent heat retention, like the Lodge Pro-Grid or the Lodge BOLD 12-inch. The most important factor is thermal mass. You need a surface that will not lose its heat when you press the cold meat onto it, which is essential for getting that perfect, crispy Maillard reaction crust.

Are expensive cast iron griddles worth it?

For the vast majority of home cooks, a brand like Lodge offers the absolute best combination of performance and value. More expensive “boutique” cast iron brands (costing 3-5 times as much) often feature a machine-smoothed cooking surface, which makes them feel more nonstick right out of the box. However, a standard Lodge griddle will become just as nonstick with regular use and proper seasoning over time, for a fraction of the price.

My Final Verdict on the Best Cast Iron Griddles

After weeks of making pancakes, bacon, smash burgers, and grilled vegetables, I can confidently say that every one of these Lodge cast iron griddles is an exceptional piece of cookware. They are all made in the USA, built to last for generations, and deliver the superior heat retention and searing power that makes cast iron a staple in any serious kitchen.

Perfect for you if…
* You frequently cook for a family or enjoy batch cooking for meal prep.
* You have a gas range that can heat a large surface evenly.
* You want the versatility of having both a flat-top griddle and a grill pan in one tool.
* You have adequate storage space for a large, heavy piece of cookware.

Not ideal for…
* You have a small kitchen with limited storage.
* You primarily cook on a small electric or induction burner.
* You find lifting heavy cookware to be difficult.

For the absolute best combination of size, versatility, and performance, my top recommendation remains the Lodge 20 x 10.44 Inch Pro-Grid Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle. Its massive cooking surface and dual-sided design make it the most capable tool for the widest range of cooking tasks.

However, if you have a smaller stove or primarily cook for one or two people, the Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle is a fantastic and highly recommended alternative. It provides a generous single-burner cooking surface with the significant added benefit of more modern, secure-feeling handles. No matter which you choose, you’ll be getting a durable, American-made griddle that will serve you delicious meals for decades to come.

Last update on 2026-02-17 at 08:02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API