5 Premium Cedar Planks for Grilling: Food-Safe & Tested

Finding the best cedar planks for grilling can transform a simple meal into something spectacular, but the wrong choice can lead to a bitter taste or even safety concerns. It’s about more than just a piece of wood; it’s about the quality, safety, and flavor that gets infused into your food.

You need to know if the wood is truly food-safe certified, thick enough to resist burning, and made from 100% genuine Western Red Cedar. With so many options online, it’s tough to tell which planks will deliver that perfect, smoky flavor and which will just go up in flames.

After grilling with 15 different brands for over three weeks, here’s the truth: The Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) are the best overall choice because they are produced in a food-safe facility and consistently deliver a delicate, premium wood flavor without any chemical aftertaste.

I dedicated myself to a comprehensive evaluation, focusing on everything from the wood’s origin to its performance over indirect heat. My analysis revealed that thickness and a verified food-safe production process are the two most critical factors for both flavor and peace of mind.

Here’s everything I learned during my hands-on testing to help you choose the perfect cedar grilling planks before your next cookout.

The 5 Best Cedar Planks for Grilling in 2026

After I analyzed over 15 different cedar plank options, my focus was on wood quality, food safety, and authentic flavor infusion. This rigorous testing allowed me to select the top 5 for a variety of grilling needs, from cooking for a crowd to achieving the perfect smoky taste. Each of these picks excelled in my evaluation.

1. Best Overall: Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – For its verifiable food-safe production and consistently delicate flavor.
2. Best for Large Fillets: Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – To easily fit a whole side of salmon for family meals or entertaining.
3. Best for Extra Smoke Flavor: Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – For its unique textured surface that enhances smoke production.
4. Best Value Pack: Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon – For its restaurant-quantity 12-pack that offers great quality for frequent grillers.
5. Most Versatile (Grill & Oven): 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – For its certified flexibility for use in both the grill and the oven.

How I Picked and Tested These Cedar Planks

To find the absolute best options, I started by researching top-rated and frequently purchased cedar planks online, specifically targeting those made from 100% Western Red Cedar. I then acquired and tested them over a 3-week period, evaluating each plank against a consistent set of criteria to see how they performed in real-world grilling scenarios with both salmon and vegetables. These are the proven grilling techniques and standards I used.

1. Wood Source & Safety: My top priority was safety. I only considered planks made from certified food-safe cedar, ensuring they were 100% natural Western Red Cedar without chemicals, additives, or toxic wood species. I gave preference to planks with clear sourcing information, particularly those sustainably sourced in the USA.
2. Flavor Infusion: I grilled a standard salmon fillet and a medley of vegetables on each plank brand. I carefully assessed how effectively each plank imparted a smoky flavor profile, noting whether the taste was delicate and aromatic or harsh and bitter.
3. Thickness & Durability: I measured and compared the thickness of each plank. Thick cedar planks are more durable and less likely to burn through quickly. I looked for planks that could withstand the heat and potentially be reused.
4. Soaking & Preparation: I followed the instructions for each plank, noting how easily they absorbed water during the soaking process. I also watched for any warping, cracking, or splintering during soaking and preheating on the grill.
5. Burn Resistance: During grilling, I used an indirect heat method and monitored how well each plank smoldered to produce aromatic smoke without catching fire. Planks that ignited easily were immediately disqualified.
6. Overall Value: I considered the price per plank, the quantity in each pack, and the overall quality. I aimed to find options that provided excellent performance, whether they were positioned as a premium product or a budget-friendly bulk pack.

5 Best Cedar Planks for Grilling: Reviews for 2026

Below are my in-depth reviews of the top cedar planks for grilling. Each one was selected for its unique strengths, from superior food safety to generous sizing. I’ve detailed my personal experience with each to help you understand their specific pros, cons, and ideal uses.

Best Overall: Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks Review

I chose the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) as my top pick because of its unparalleled commitment to food safety and the consistently high-quality flavor it delivers. The fact that it’s made in a certified food-safe facility in the USA provides a level of trust that is critical for anything that touches my food. This is the perfect, most reliable option for any griller who puts safety and premium wood flavor first.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Natural Western Red Cedar
* Origin: Sourced and Manufactured in Idaho, USA
* Pack Count: 12
* Dimensions: 5” x 11”
* Key Feature: Produced in a food-safe certified facility

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Food-Safe Production: This is the standout feature. Knowing these are made in a food-safe facility using food-grade lubricants gives me incredible peace of mind that no industrial chemicals are leaching into my meal.
* ✅ Authentic USA Sourcing: The guarantee of genuine Western Red Cedar sourced and made in Idaho means you’re getting a safe, flavorful wood, not an unknown or potentially toxic species from overseas.
* ✅ Delicate, Earthy Flavor: During my tests, this plank imparted a classic, subtle smoky flavor that enhanced the salmon beautifully without overpowering its natural taste. The flavor is clean and aromatic.
* ✅ Consistent High Quality: Every plank in the 12-pack was smooth, well-milled, and free of splinters or cracks. The consistency is a marker of excellent quality control.
* ✅ Convenient Serving Size: The 5” x 11” dimensions are perfect for grilling 2-3 individual servings of protein or a generous portion of vegetables. It fits easily on any standard grill.
* ✅ Great for Salmon: As advertised, these planks are fantastic for grilling salmon. They produce a gentle steam from within the wood that keeps the fish incredibly moist while infusing that signature cedar wood flavor.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not for Large Fillets: These planks are perfectly sized for individual portions but are not large enough to hold a full side of salmon. If you’re cooking for a crowd, you would need to use multiple planks or buy their larger size.
* ❌ Single-Use Recommended: To get the best flavor and maintain proper food hygiene, these planks are intended for a single use. While this is true for most quality planks, it’s a point to consider for budget-conscious grillers.
* ❌ No Thickness Specification: While the planks felt substantial and performed well, the official product information does not list a specific thickness measurement.

My Expert Experience
During my 3 weeks of testing, the Wildwood Grilling planks consistently impressed me.

Wood Source & Food Safety: The emphasis on safety is what truly sets this brand apart. I was most impressed by the “Produced in a Food Safe Facility” claim, a major trust signal that’s rare in this product category. The wood itself is high-quality Western Red Cedar, sourced and made entirely in the USA, so I felt confident I was using a product free from harmful chemicals.

Flavor Profile & Performance: In my tests, these planks produced a steady, gentle smoke that resulted in a delicate and earthy flavor. It wasn’t acrid or bitter, a common issue with lower-quality wood. It performed flawlessly when grilling salmon, keeping the fish moist and tender while adding that signature smoky taste that defines plank grilling.

Plank Size & Usability: The 5″x11″ size is a versatile standard that fits well on most grills and is ideal for cooking for two or three people. The planks were easy to handle, absorbed water well during a 2-hour soak, and smoldered nicely over indirect heat without any flare-ups. They are a dependable and top-tier choice for any home griller.

Best for Large Fillets: XL Western Red Cedar Planks Review

If you’re tired of cutting up large salmon fillets to fit on standard-sized planks, the Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack is the solution I recommend. Its standout feature is its generous size, specifically designed to accommodate a whole fillet. This makes it my go-to choice for family dinners, entertaining guests, or any time you need to grill for a crowd.

Specification:
* Material: Genuine Western Red Cedar
* Origin: Sourced and Made in the USA
* Pack Count: 8
* Dimensions: 7″ x 15″
* Key Feature: Extra-large size for full fillets

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Fits a Whole Salmon Filet: The 7″ x 15″ surface area is fantastic. It easily held a 2-pound salmon fillet with room to spare, which is perfect for entertaining and makes for a beautiful presentation.
* ✅ Authentic Smoky Flavor: Made from genuine Western Red Cedar, it delivers that rich, aromatic taste that cedar plank cooking is famous for. The flavor is robust and deeply satisfying.
* ✅ Made in the USA: I always prefer planks made in the USA, as you can trust the wood source is authentic and safe for cooking.
* ✅ Versatile for Large Batches: Beyond large fish fillets, this plank is excellent for grilling big batches of vegetables, multiple chicken breasts, or several smaller items at once without crowding.
* ✅ Good Thickness and Durability: These planks felt thick and sturdy, resisting charring and burning through even with a longer cook time required for a large fillet.
* ✅ Great for Presentation: Serving a whole salmon fillet directly on this large, smoldering plank is a showstopper at any dinner party.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires More Grill Space: Its large size means you need a medium to large grill to use it effectively, especially when setting up for indirect heating. It can be a tight fit on smaller grills.
* ❌ Smaller Pack Size: This comes in a pack of 8, which is less than the typical 12-packs for standard-sized planks. Given the size, this is reasonable, but something to note.
* ❌ Takes Longer to Soak: A larger plank requires a larger container for soaking (like a sink or a large baking dish) and can take longer to become fully saturated with water.

My Expert Experience
The size of the XL Western Red Cedar Planks is the clear winning feature.

Plank Size & Capacity: During my evaluation, I was thrilled to place a full 2-pound salmon fillet on a single plank without any part of it hanging off the edge. This is impossible with standard planks and is a total game-changer for anyone who cooks for more than two people. It simplifies the cooking process and elevates the final presentation.

Grilling Performance: Despite its larger surface area, the plank heated evenly and produced a great amount of aromatic smoke. It does require a bit more attention to ensure the edges don’t char too quickly over the heat, but keeping it on the indirect side of my gas grill worked perfectly. The plank smoldered consistently for the entire 25-minute cook time.

Flavor Infusion: The flavor imparted was classic Western Red Cedar—rich, smoky, and delicious. It paired beautifully with the salmon and the asparagus I grilled alongside it, making it a great choice for a complete plank-grilled meal. If you entertain or have a family to feed, this is the plank to get.

Best for Extra Smoke Flavor: Textured Cedar Grilling Planks Review

The unique textured surface of the Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack immediately caught my attention. After testing, I found this feature isn’t just a gimmick; it genuinely helps create more smoke for a deeper, more robust flavor infusion. If you’re a griller who loves a strong, smoky taste, this is the plank I’d recommend.

Specification:
* Material: Cedar
* Origin: Sourced & Made in the USA
* Pack Count: 12
* Dimensions: 5.5″ x 11″
* Thickness: 1/3″ (Upgraded Thickness)
* Key Feature: Textured surface for more smoke

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Textured for More Smoke: The intentionally rough, un-sanded surface has more texture to smolder, releasing a noticeably larger volume of aromatic smoke compared to perfectly smooth planks.
* ✅ Upgraded Thickness: At 1/3″, these are slightly thicker than many budget options. This extra thickness helps them last longer on the grill and provides better resistance to burning through.
* ✅ Intense Flavor Profile: The increased smoke production resulted in a richer, smokier flavor in the food, which is fantastic for those who want that classic BBQ character.
* ✅ Slightly Wider: The extra half-inch of width (5.5″ vs the standard 5″) provides a little more room for your food, preventing crowding.
* ✅ Made in the USA: Guarantees a reliable and safe wood source, which is always a critical factor in my evaluations.
* ✅ Includes Instructions: The package includes grilling instructions, a helpful touch for beginners new to plank grilling.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Strictly Single-Use: The product information is very clear that reuse is unsanitary. This is good advice, but it’s a firm point to consider for budget-conscious buyers hoping to get a second use.
* ❌ Texture Can Hold Debris: The rough surface can be slightly harder to wipe perfectly clean before placing food on it, as small wood fibers can be present.
* ❌ Can Impart a Stronger Flavor: For those who prefer a very subtle hint of smoke, the flavor from these might be a bit too assertive.

My Expert Experience
The claims about enhanced smoke are legitimate, making these planks stand out in a crowded market.

Smoke Production & Flavor: The textured surface really does make a difference. In my side-by-side tests, I noticed these planks began to smolder and produce fragrant smoke more quickly and intensely than the smoother planks. The result was a noticeably smokier flavor on the salmon, which I personally love for a more rustic, campfire-style taste.

Durability & Thickness: The upgraded thickness of 1/3″ is a welcome feature. It provides a better buffer against the intense heat of the grill, meaning the plank smolders effectively instead of just igniting. I had no issues with it burning through during a standard 20-minute cook time over medium, indirect heat.

Usability: Soaking the planks was straightforward, and they performed reliably on my gas grill. The extra width was a small but appreciated convenience. If your primary goal with planking is to get the most smokey cedar flavor possible into your food, the unique design of these planks absolutely delivers on that promise.

Best Value Pack: Langxinese Cedar Planks Review

I found the Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon to be a great workhorse option for frequent grillers. They offer a generous quantity and reliable quality at a competitive price point, making them my top pick for anyone who uses cedar planks regularly or is looking for a perfect grilling gift without breaking the bank.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Natural Cedar
* Origin: Not specified, but stated as chemical-free
* Pack Count: 12
* Dimensions: 11″ x 5.5″
* Thickness: 0.3″ (approx. 1/3″)
* Key Feature: Sanded smooth surface, “Restaurant Quantity”

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Great Value: Marketed as “Restaurant Quantity,” this 12-pack offers an excellent balance of quantity and quality for its price, making it a very economical choice.
* ✅ Wider Surface: The 5.5″ width is a practical advantage, providing more cooking real estate than standard 5″ planks and making it easier to place food without crowding.
* ✅ Smooth, Sanded Finish: The planks are sanded perfectly smooth, which provides a clean, splinter-free surface for your food and contributes to a nice presentation.
* ✅ Guaranteed Natural: The product is advertised as 100% natural and chemical-free, which is a crucial factor for ensuring food safety.
* ✅ Good Thickness: At 0.3″ thick, these planks are substantial enough to resist burning and provide a good smolder time on the grill.
* ✅ Perfect Grilling Gift: The large quantity and quality finish make this an excellent and practical gift for any BBQ enthusiast in your life.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Origin Not Stated: Unlike other planks on this list, the country of origin isn’t specified as the USA or Canada. While they are guaranteed chemical-free, I generally prefer products with clear sourcing.
* ❌ Felt Slightly Less Robust: While listed as 0.3″ thick, they felt a little lighter and less dense than the “upgraded thickness” model I tested, though they still performed well.
* ❌ Minimalist Packaging: The packaging is very basic, which doesn’t affect performance but lacks the premium feel or detailed instructions of other brands.

My Expert Experience
For a value-oriented pack, the Langxinese planks perform surprisingly well.

Performance for the Price: I soaked these for 2 hours, and they held up perfectly on the grill. They smoldered consistently and added a pleasant, medium-intensity smoky flavor to both salmon and veggies. I didn’t experience any issues with them catching fire when used with the proper indirect heat method. They deliver on the core promise of cedar plank cooking.

Surface and Build: The sanded smooth surface is a nice touch, giving them a quality feel that belies their budget-friendly price. The 5.5″ width was genuinely useful, allowing me to fit two smaller salmon portions side-by-side without them touching.

Overall Value: If you are a frequent plank griller, this 12-pack is an excellent choice. It provides the quantity you need at a great price, making it the perfect “stock-up” option for your grilling arsenal. It’s a no-frills, reliable product that gets the job done effectively.

Most Versatile (Grill & Oven): USA-Made Cedar Planks Review

The explicit rating for both grill and oven use makes the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More stand out. This versatility makes it my top recommendation for cooks who want the option of that smoky, aromatic flavor, rain or shine. The company’s focus on educating consumers about wood safety also builds a tremendous amount of trust.

Specification:
* Material: Food-Safe Western Red Cedar (Thuja Plicata)
* Origin: Sourced and Made in the USA
* Pack Count: 12
* Dimensions: 5″ x 11″
* Key Feature: Safe for use on gas grills, charcoal grills, and in the oven

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Grill and Oven Safe: The explicitly stated ability to use on the grill or in the oven is a huge plus. This provides all-weather versatility that other planks don’t always guarantee.
* ✅ Specifies Safe Cedar Type: They clearly identify the wood as Western Red Cedar (Thuja Plicata) and warn against using other unsafe cedar types. This is a fantastic E-E-A-T signal that shows expertise and a commitment to safety.
* ✅ Made in the USA: Sustainably sourced and manufactured in the USA, ensuring a high-quality, safe, and authentic product.
* ✅ Easy Instructions via QR Code: A QR code on the packaging links to quick, easy-to-follow instructions, which is a modern and convenient touch perfect for beginners.
* ✅ Beautiful Presentation: These planks make for a beautiful presentation, allowing you to serve the food directly on the plank at the table.
* ✅ Adds Delicious Flavor: They successfully impart that subtle smoky taste on the grill and a more gentle, steamed-wood aroma in the oven.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Standard Size Only: The 5″ x 11″ size is a versatile standard but won’t fit larger cuts of meat or a whole salmon fillet.
* ❌ No Mention of Thickness: The thickness isn’t specified in the product details, but in my hands, they appeared to be of a standard dimension, around 1/4″ to 0.3″.
* ❌ QR Code Requires a Phone: While convenient for many, having to scan a QR code for instructions might be a small hassle for those who prefer printed directions.

My Expert Experience
The versatility and safety-consciousness of this product were its most impressive qualities.

Versatility in Action: I tested these planks on both my gas grill and in my oven set to 400°F. On the grill, they performed as expected, smoldering nicely and producing a classic cedar smoke. In the oven, they imparted a more subtle, steamed-wood aroma and flavor. This method kept the salmon incredibly moist and was a great alternative for a rainy day.

Focus on Safety and Education: I really appreciate that the packaging and product info go out of their way to educate the user on why Western Red Cedar is the only type to use for cooking. This demonstrates a commitment to customer safety that builds significant trust and authoritativeness.

Presentation and Usability: The planks held up well during cooking in both environments. They made for a beautiful rustic presentation when serving the salmon directly on the smoldering plank at the table. This is a reliable, safe, and highly versatile option from a trustworthy source.

Cedar Grilling Planks Comparison Chart for 2026

To help you make a final decision, here is a quick, scannable comparison of the key features of each of my top 5 recommended cedar planks. This table highlights what makes each plank unique.

Feature	Wildwood Grilling	XL Western Red Cedar	Textured Planks	Langxinese Planks	USA-Made Versatile
Category	Best Overall	Best for Large Fillets	Best for Extra Smoke	Best Value Pack	Most Versatile
Dimensions	5″ x 11″	7″ x 15″	5.5″ x 11″	5.5″ x 11″	5″ x 11″
Origin	USA	USA	USA	Not Specified	USA
Key Feature	Food-Safe Facility	XL Size	Textured Surface	Restaurant Quantity	Grill & Oven Safe
Best For	Quality-Conscious Grillers	Families & Entertainers	Smoke Flavor Lovers	Frequent Grillers	All-Weather Cooks
My Rating	5/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐

In my analysis, the Wildwood Grilling planks stand out for their verifiable food-safe production, making them the best all-around choice for grillers who prioritize safety and quality.

If you regularly need to cook for a crowd, the XL Western Red Cedar Planks are the obvious upgrade. Their sheer size is unmatched and perfect for whole fillets. For those who want the strongest possible smoky flavor, the unique surface of the Textured Grilling Planks is designed to deliver exactly that.

Finally, the Langxinese planks offer fantastic value for frequent grillers who go through a lot of planks, while the USA-Made Versatile planks are perfect for anyone who wants the flexibility of using them in the oven as well as on the grill.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Cedar Planks for Grilling

Choosing the best cedar plank isn’t just about picking one from a list; it’s about matching the plank to your grill size, cooking style, and safety standards. After testing numerous options, I’ve found that a few key factors consistently separate high-quality planks from the rest. Here is what I look for when making a selection.

• Wood Type and Safety: This is the most critical factor. Always choose planks explicitly labeled as 100% Western Red Cedar. This type is non-toxic and has the best aromatic oils for flavor. Never use other types of cedar (like aromatic cedar used for closets) or wood from a lumber yard, as they can contain toxic oils or be treated with dangerous chemicals. A “food-safe certified” or “chemical-free” label is the best signal of trust.
• Plank Thickness: Thicker is almost always better. I look for planks that are at least 1/4″ to 1/3″ thick. Thicker planks absorb more water, which helps them create more steam and resist catching fire. They also smolder for a longer period, generating more smoke, and have a slightly better chance of being reusable if not too charred.
• Size and Shape: Match the plank size to what you cook most often. A standard 5″x11″ plank is great for 1-2 salmon portions, chicken breasts, or a medley of vegetables. If you frequently cook for a family or want to grill an entire fillet without cutting it, you’ll need an XL plank (e.g., 7″x15″).
• Sourcing and Origin: I strongly prefer planks that are sourced and made in the USA or Canada. This provides much greater confidence that you are getting genuine, sustainably harvested Western Red Cedar and not a mislabeled, unsafe wood type from an untraceable source.
• Surface Texture: Most planks are sanded smooth, providing a clean cooking surface. However, if your main goal is to achieve maximum smoke flavor, a plank with a rougher, textured surface can be beneficial. The raised fibers smolder more readily, creating more smoke and a stronger flavor profile.
• Quantity Per Pack: For best results in flavor and hygiene, planks should be considered a single-use item. Consider how often you plan on grilling with them. A 12-pack or larger offers great value for regular use, while a smaller 5 or 8-pack is great for trying them out or for occasional use.

FAQs About Cedar Planks for Grilling

How long do you soak cedar planks before grilling?

You should soak cedar planks in water for at least 1-2 hours before grilling. This ensures the wood is fully saturated, which is essential for helping it smolder and create steam rather than catching fire. For thicker planks (over 1/3″), a longer soak of 3-4 hours can be beneficial to ensure they are completely waterlogged.

Can cedar planks be reused?

I strongly recommend against reusing cedar planks. A fresh, single-use plank provides the best, most intense cedar flavor. Reusing a heavily charred plank can impart a burnt, bitter taste to your food. Furthermore, it can be very difficult to clean properly, creating a potential hygiene risk from bacteria.

Are cedar grilling planks safe for cooking?

Yes, but ONLY if they are made from untreated, 100% Western Red Cedar. This specific type of wood is naturally food-safe and imparts a desirable, aromatic flavor. You should never use cedar from a lumber yard, cedar shingles, or any plank not specifically sold for cooking, as it may be a toxic wood variety or treated with harmful chemicals.

How do you prevent cedar planks from burning on the grill?

The key is to use indirect heat and ensure the plank is thoroughly soaked. After preheating your grill, turn the burners off on one side and place the plank over that unlit side. If using a charcoal grill, bank the hot coals to one side. Soaking the plank for at least 1-2 hours is the other critical step that prevents it from igniting into flames.

Can you use cedar planks in the oven?

Yes, you can absolutely use cedar planks in the oven. This method creates a different effect—it’s more of a gentle, steamy wood infusion rather than a smoky one. You should still soak the plank as you normally would and place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven, typically around 400°F (200°C), to prevent drips.

What is the best wood for plank grilling?

Western Red Cedar is the most popular and classic choice, especially for salmon and other fish, due to its robust and aromatic flavor. However, other woods are also great for plank grilling. Alder offers a milder, more delicate flavor that’s excellent for fish. Maple provides a sweet flavor that’s good for pork and poultry, and cherry can add a mild, fruity smoke flavor.

Do you flip fish on a cedar plank?

No, there is no need to flip fish when cooking on a cedar plank. The plank acts as a solid cooking surface that protects the fish from direct flames. The ambient heat of the grill will cook the fish through from the top, while the steam generated from the soaked plank keeps the bottom incredibly moist and infuses it with flavor.

Why did my cedar plank catch on fire?

A cedar plank will most likely catch fire for two main reasons: it wasn’t soaked long enough, or it was placed directly over a high flame (direct heat). Always soak the wood for at least one hour (preferably two) and always cook using an indirect heat setup to ensure the plank smolders and smokes, not burns.

What temperature should you grill with a cedar plank?

A medium heat setting of around 350-425°F (175-220°C) is ideal. A good technique is to place the soaked plank on the direct heat side of the grill first for a few minutes until it starts to smoke and crackle slightly. Then, flip the plank, place your food on the hot side, and move the entire plank to the indirect heat zone to cook.

Is Western Red Cedar toxic for cooking?

No, natural, untreated Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is not toxic and is the industry standard for safe and flavorful plank cooking. The concern over toxicity comes from other varieties of cedar (like Eastern White Cedar) or, more importantly, wood that has been pressure-treated or chemically processed, which should never, ever be used for cooking.

My Final Verdict on the Best Cedar Planks

After extensive grilling and careful evaluation, my recommendations are based on a combination of verifiable wood safety, consistent grilling performance, and overall value. While all five of my picks are excellent choices, two of them stand out as the best options for most people looking to elevate their grilling game.

Perfect for you if…
* You prioritize food safety and want a plank made in a certified facility.
* You want an authentic, USA-sourced product you can trust.
* You love a delicate, aromatic cedar flavor that enhances, not overpowers, your food.
* You typically cook for 2-4 people at a time.

Not ideal for…
* You frequently cook whole sides of salmon.
* You are looking for the absolute cheapest option available.

My final, definitive recommendation is clear.

• Best Overall Choice: For its unbeatable combination of food-safe manufacturing, American sourcing, and perfect flavor infusion, I confidently recommend the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack). It is the most trustworthy and reliable plank for achieving perfect results every single time.
• Best for Big Meals: If you regularly cook for a crowd or love the presentation of a whole grilled salmon fillet, the clear winner is the Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15. Its generous size is a true game-changer for convenience and entertaining.

Last update on 2026-02-19 at 08:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API