The 10 Best Cast Iron Griddles in 2023

A cast iron griddle is a must-have kitchen staple at home. Who wouldn't love a cast iron griddle? You can use it on the stovetop, inside the oven, or over the barbecue grill. 

You can cook traditional barbecue food like steaks, bacon, sausages, chicken, and burgers with a cast iron griddle. On top of that, you can also use it to whip up some quesadillas, grilled cheese, french toast, and waffles. 

But the question is, how will you choose the best one out of all the cast iron griddles sold out there? If you want a practical purchase, look for a cast iron griddle with a wide cooking surface and reliable handles. It's also a plus if the cast iron griddle is reversible. 

Our team did all the work, and we have narrowed down the list of the best cast iron griddles in the market today. In addition, we have prepared some tips to keep in mind when buying a cast iron griddle. Here's what we've come up with. 

Table of Contents

• Best Overall: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron
• Broiler-Safe: Calphalon 1873980 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill/Griddle Combo
• Best Reversible Cast Iron: Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Reversible Griddle
• Widest Cooking Surface: AmazonBasics Reversible Grill/Griddle Plate
• Most Compact: Lodge Pro-Logic 12 Inch Square Cast Iron Griddle
• Most Affordable: Cuisinart CCP-1000 Camping Griddle
• Perfect Stovetop Enhancer: Legend Reversible Cast Iron Griddle
• Most Lightweight: Victoria Cast Iron Round Pan Comal Griddle
• Best for Outdoor Use: Camp Chef Reversible Cast Iron Griddle
• Best Round Griddle: BrightTALK Round Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle
• Cast Iron Griddle Buying Guide
• Cast Iron Griddle 101
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Words

Best Overall: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron

One of the bestselling cast iron griddles is the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron. It's the perfect all-in-one cast iron griddle; you can use it to sear, bake, grill, sauté, broil, fry, and braise. Moreover, you can use the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron on all cooking surfaces — stove, oven, or campfire. 

You'll love its 10.5-inch cooking surface and lowered sidewalls which leave a wide area for cooking more food at a time. Despite its lowered walls, you won't have to worry about the batter and ingredients sliding off the griddle. 

Its handle has its pros and cons. The cast iron handle is undeniably sturdy. However, it may get hot. Of course, you can easily deal with this issue by using a handle cover. 

Lastly, you can expect optimum heat absorption, fast heating time, unparalleled heat retention, and even heat distribution from the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron. As it is also affordable, it’s undoubtedly a must-buy!

Broiler-Safe: Calphalon 1873980 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill/Griddle Combo

If you're looking for a two-in-one cast iron grill and griddle, the Calphalon 1873980 Combo is one of the best options. You can use its ridged grill side to cook breakfast sausages, chicken breasts, and vegetables. Meanwhile, you can use the smooth griddle side to whip up some pancakes, sandwiches, pancakes, and many more. 

The Calphalon 1873980 Combo may come with a high price tag, but it's worth it. It has a 12-inch by 18-inch cooking surface, long enough to cover two stovetop burners. The large cooking surface means you can cook more food at a time. 

It’s heavy, but all cast iron cookware is. The handles are large and oversized to make the griddle easier to lift and maneuver. Additionally, it's versatile. It's compatible for use in any type of stovetop, oven, broiler, or outdoor barbecue grill. 

Best Reversible Cast Iron: Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Reversible Griddle

Another recommended cast iron griddle is the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Griddle and Grill. Lodge really knows how to make the best cast-iron griddles. Unlike the first cast iron griddle mentioned above, this one is rectangular and is reversible. 

You can use the smooth side to make grilled cheese sandwiches, pancakes, and eggs. On the other hand, you can use the grilling side to grill proteins and vegetables. Using the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron, you can bake, sear, broil, fry, or grill many types of food. 

The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Griddle and Grill come with a 9.5-by-16.75-inch wide cooking surface. Although it's a flat griddle, its borders on all sides are high enough to prevent any ingredients from slipping off the griddle. However, the downside to this product is that the grease from fatty foods may spill. You will need to use a spoon to remove the excess grease. 

As for the handles, they may not look like your conventional cast iron handles, but they're surprisingly easy to grip. Without a doubt, the handles are spacious and easy to lift. Overall, it has excellent heat retention, superb even heat distribution, and can withstand high heat up to 502 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Widest Cooking Surface: AmazonBasics Reversible Grill/Griddle Plate

Another bestselling cast iron griddle is from AmazonBasics. Amazon surprised everyone with this innovative AmazonBasics Cast Iron Griddle, which works as a reversible grill and griddle. This cast iron griddle comes with a wide cooking surface of 20x10.4 inches. 

The Amazon cast iron griddle comes pre-seasoned and ready to use. Its side handles are easy to grip; as a result, it is trouble-free to carry. Just don't forget to wear some mittens because the cast iron handles get hot. 

Furthermore, this heavy-duty cast iron by Amazon has raised edges to keep food from falling off. Like other cast iron, it has optimal heat retention, even heat distribution, and high heat tolerance of up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

What sets this cast iron griddle aside from the other cast iron griddles is that it comes with a 1-year warranty offered by AmazonBasics. Also, unlike other reversible cast iron griddles mentioned here, this is the only product with a sunken edge to collect grease and oil easily. 

However, the downside of this product is the "AmazonBasics" logo in the low mid-center portion of the griddle. The raised letters collect grease and food bits that are hard to clean. Also, it's no fun eating pancakes with the AmazonBasics logo, and it's not that enticing. 

Yet, overall, this cast iron griddle from AmazonBasics lives up to its promise of withstanding high heat, having sturdy handles, and optimal heating retention. Enjoy freshly grilled juicy meat and freshly cooked pancakes, sandwiches, and quesadillas with the AmazonBasics reversible griddle. 

Most Compact: Lodge Pro-Logic 12 Inch Square Cast Iron Griddle

If you're looking for a cast iron griddle that can also serve as a pan, the Lodge Pro-Logic 12 Inch Square Cast Iron Griddle is worth trying. This durable grill is once again a product of the Lodge Cast Iron Company. 

This medium-sized, 12-inch, square-shaped cast iron griddle is also versatile. Like all other cast iron griddles, the Pro-Logic 12 can withstand high heat, promotes even heat distribution, and comes pre-seasoned with oil. 

Its dual handles and light weight make it easy for you to hold, carry, and maneuver the griddle. Also, compared to other cast iron griddles mentioned in this list, it has a ¾-inch deep side, great for frying without worrying about foods falling over. 

Most Affordable: Cuisinart CCP-1000 Camping Griddle

At first glance, you'll know that the Cuisinart CCP-1000 Camping Griddle is made for everyday cooking. It's the ideal cooking partner for everyday cooking and is compatible with any kind of heat source. You can use it to broil, fry, sauté, sear, bake, or grill almost any food you like. 

As the name implies, it's a camping griddle that you can also use for indoor cooking. Like other cast iron griddles, its smooth surface is pre-seasoned, easy to clean, and has even heat distribution. This cast iron griddle has a 10-inch cooking surface and dual handles making it easy to maneuver and carry. Moreover, Its handles have a slope design that makes them easy to grip. 

Of all items on the list, only the Cuisinart CCP-1000 serves as a griddle and a pan. And, since it has deep sides, it's the perfect griddle for stir-frying and deep-frying. Overall, it's a great kitchen addition for indoor and outdoor cooking. 

Perfect Stovetop Enhancer: Legend Reversible Cast Iron Griddle

Another reversible cast iron griddle that's worth trying is the Legend Reversible Cast Iron Griddle. It is a modern take on cast iron griddles, with contemporary features of smooth features on one side and the ridged griller on the other. 

The Legend Reversible Cast Iron has a 20x10 cooking surface and can cover two stovetop burners. This means that you can cook more food at a time. Like the AmazonBasics cast iron griddle, it has a grease reservoir on both sides. The grease reservoir traps the rendered fat safely until you're ready to pour it off. 

Its integrated, curved handles are seamlessly designed for easy cooking and moving. Additionally, its smooth griddle has exceptional heat retention and even heat distribution. The grill marks on its ridged griller side have raised lines that prevent the grease from dripping off.

Many renowned chefs call it The Pan, The Myth, or The Legend. It's the perfect stovetop enhancer, perfect for sizzling or searing your favorite meals. Furthermore, it's an oven-safe, premium-grade cast iron griddle that guarantees the best cooking results. 

Most Lightweight: Victoria Cast Iron Round Pan Comal Griddle

This next cast iron griddle is the product of a brand trusted for more than three generations. It is versatile, durable, and good for all-around use. You can use this cast iron griddle over the campfire, grill, oven, or stove.

Its grips have a sustainable and innovative design for a better grip and easy maneuver. The 7-inch handles may get hot, but an easy fix would be to use a silicone handle grip. 

However, it's notable that the Victoria Cast Iron Griddle Pan has a small circumference, and its edges aren’t raised well enough. Be extra careful when cooking foods like sliced vegetables as they might fall off. 

Also, many reviews say it's not pre-seasoned enough even though the product description states it comes seasoned with 100% non-GMO flaxseed oil.

Best for Outdoor Use: Camp Chef Reversible Cast Iron Griddle

The Camp Chef Reversible Cast Iron Griddle is another reversible cast iron griddle that made it to this list. Use the griddle side to prepare breakfast, or flip it over to use the grill for barbecue nights. 

This is a must-have cast iron cookware for BBQ lovers for indoor and outdoor grilling. Its cooking surface dimensions measure 14x16-inch and fit all Camp Chef Stoves. Like other cast iron griddles in this list, the Camp Chef is versatile, heats up evenly, and is a handy companion for cooking foods to perfection. Also, its grease-catching reservoir is deep enough that it prevents fatty oils from overflowing. 

However, a common complaint is that its smooth side has rough grits. A cast iron griddle with coarse grits means cooking delicate foods can be challenging. Nonetheless, any problem comes with a solution. You can patiently sandpaper the rough grits to smoothen out the surface, regularly re-season it, and diligently follow the cleaning instructions. 

Best Round Griddle: BrightTALK Round Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle

If you're looking for a round, reversible cast iron grill or griddle, the BrightTALK Round Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle might be for you. It's specifically designed for use over stovetops and campfires. However, the BrightTalk Round Cast Iron Griddle is not oven-safe. So think long and hard before buying this if you plan to whip up some food in the oven. 

Also, another downside to this product compared to other cast iron griddles on this list is that the BrightTalk doesn't come pre-seasoned. BrightTALK recommends seasoning the cast iron griddle before your first use. Upon purchase, the package comes with instructions on how to season the griddle properly. 

Regardless of its downsides, the BrightTALK cast iron griddle still has many selling points, and you shouldn't strike it off your list just yet. This cast iron griddle may be perfect for your preference. 

It’s the only round and reversible cast iron griddle on this list. You can use its smooth surface to make roti and the other side to grill some barbecue. Also, it's lightweight at 7.74 pounds, meaning you can easily bring it on your next outdoor trip. Lastly, it's durable and will last for years. 

Cast Iron Griddle Buying Guide

At this point, we're pretty sure you're excited to buy a cast iron griddle. But hold on! Before anything else, you should know the important things to remember when making a purchase. What makes a cast iron griddle worth buying, and what product features should you look for? Here's what you need to know. 

Enameled Or Uncoated?

There are two types of coating for cast iron griddles — enameled and uncoated. The coating on the cast iron puts a barrier between the food and the raw material. Furthermore, the coating ensures that the food won't get stuck on the surface.

An enameled cast iron griddle does not require any seasoning. With an enameled cast iron, the food is less likely to stick, even the acidic ones. Also, an enameled cast iron is dishwasher safe, so washing it isn't something you should worry about. Enameled cast iron griddles are more expensive and heavier compared to uncoated ones. 

On the other hand, uncoated cast iron needs regular seasoning. However, the downfalls of uncoated cast iron griddles are: you can't cook acidic foods in them, and you can’t put them in the dishwasher. 

Overall, many experts recommend uncoated cast iron griddles. All the options listed above are uncoated cast iron griddles. Some come pre-seasoned, while one option, the BrightTALK, isn't pre-seasoned. 

Heating Capacity

It is a given fact that cast iron cookware can withstand high heat. But when choosing the best cast-iron griddle, make sure to select a product that has the maximum heating capacity. 

Some products listed above have a maximum heat capacity of only 400 degrees Fahrenheit, while some may reach up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. So what's the better option? It's better to choose a cast iron griddle with a higher heat capacity. 

Pre-Seasoned

Some cast iron griddles come pre-seasoned, while some are not. If you want to use your brand new cast iron griddle right away, choose a product that's pre-seasoned. However, you should consider that some pre-seasoned cast irons may not meet your standards and may require more seasoning. 

On the other hand, seasoning a cast iron cookware is not that difficult. So if you don't mind putting a little more effort when seasoning your cookware, a cast iron griddle that doesn't come pre-seasoned isn't a bad investment after all. 

Compatible With Many Heat Source

When making a purchase, you'd want to buy a cast iron griddle that's compatible with different heat sources. Some cast iron griddles are not oven-safe, like the BrightTALK. On the other hand, some products are not recommended for use over campfire grills.

In other words, before buying a cast iron griddle, consider the type of heat source you have at home and whether it's compatible with the product you're about to buy. Also, if you plan to buy a cast iron griddle for an outdoor barbecue, make sure to check the product specification first. 

A cast iron griddle that you can use on various cooking surfaces is worth buying. 

Thickness Matters

From a conservative point of view, the thickness of a cast iron griddle matters. The thicker the cast iron griddle, the better heat retention capacity it has. There are cast iron griddles that are 1-inch thick and 3-inch thick. 

The thickness of a cast iron griddle has pros and cons — portability, weight, and heat retention. Thicker cast iron griddles are heavy and maybe a challenge to bring with you on camping trips. 

With that said, cast iron griddles that are 1-inch thick do still have exceptional heat retention. However, thicker cast iron griddles simply retain heat better. 

Handles

Another factor to consider when buying a cast iron griddle is the handles. As you can see from the products mentioned above, the handles have different designs. But what should you look for?

The handles should be solid and sturdy. In addition, it should have a wide-open area so your hands can easily slide in. For instance, the Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle has limited space on its handles, plus they're situated opposite and parallel to each other. This kind of cast iron griddle may come with a challenge.

On the other hand, cast iron griddles like the Lodge Pro-logic have one long handle and a wide-open handle. Because of this, the Lodge Pro-logic is easier to lift and maneuver. Lastly, the handles must have a proper grip so the griddle won't slip off your hands.

Cooking Surface Area

Cast iron griddles come in different shapes and sizes. In perspective, the wider the cooking surface of a cast iron griddle, the better. You won't have to do multiple rounds of cooking when having a get-together. 

Typically, a cast iron griddle can cover two stovetops, and that's the one you'd want. Always check the size dimensions before buying the product. A width of 14-16 inches is wide enough. A decent cooking space means you can cook more food at one time. Also, it's least likely for food to go off the griddle because you have enough space for cooking. 

Overall Size and Weight

The overall size and weight of the cast iron griddle matter. If you're planning to buy a cast iron griddle, ask yourself what purpose you have in mind.

• Do you plan to cook outdoors? 
• Do you find it hard to cook using heavy cast iron griddles? 
• Do you find it hard to clean heavy cast iron griddles? 

If your answer to these questions is YES, you should pick a lightweight and compact product, like the Lodge Pro-logic or the Victoria. Otherwise, if it's for kitchen use and you don't mind using a heavier cast iron griddle, you can choose the ones like Caphalon. 

As mentioned earlier, the cooking surface also matters. The wider the cooking surface you have, the more foods you can cook. But you also have to consider your storage space. 

Will a wide cast iron griddle fit in your storage space? You do the math. If not, you can find a space to hang it. Do you have overhead storage, or will you find it hard to store a heavy cast iron griddle? If so, then you should consider buying a lightweight cast iron griddle instead. 

Cast Iron Griddle 101

If you're a first-time cast iron griddle owner or simply want to refresh your memory on everything you need to know about cast iron cookware, you can benefit from reading this section. Learn how to use, cook properly, and clean a cast iron griddle. 

What Is a Cast Iron Griddle?

First of all, let's break down the definition by words. Cast iron cookware is typically made from soft yet heavy materials ideal for cooking. Furthermore, cast iron absorbs, retains, and evenly distributes heat. 

You can use a griddle for indoor and outdoor cooking to cook traditional barbecue food like chicken, steak, sausage, vegetables, and burgers. By using a griddle, you can adequately grill food while achieving that smoky flavor.

To sum it up, the features of a cast iron are:

• Physical Features: Wide cooking surface with low edges. 
• Non-Stick: Cast iron cookware is naturally non-stick, especially when appropriately seasoned. 
• Cooking Surface: It comes with both flat and raised surfaces. The raised surface helps to drain off the excess grease from food and leave grill marks. 
• Cooking Area: Typically, cast iron griddles have a large cooking area, so you can accommodate many batches of food when cooking.
• Cast Iron Griddle Types Available: In the market, you can find griddle plates, griddle pans, electric griddle plates, and reversible griddle and grill cookware. 
• Handles: Cast iron griddles typically have handles on both sides because they’re often heavy. 
• Heat Source: Depending on the type or brand of the product, you can use a cast iron griddle on stovetops, ovens, and campfires. Always read the product specification on which heat source is compatible. 

How to Use a Cast Iron Griddle

When using a cast iron griddle, there are two things you need to familiarize yourself with — seasoning and heating. These days, you can purchase a cast iron griddle that's readily pre-seasoned. However, this may not be enough, and you will need to re-season again after several uses. 

To season a cast iron skillet or griddle, follow these steps:

1. Scrub the cast iron griddle with warm water. Do not use harsh dishwashing soap.
2. Dry thoroughly.
3. Spread a thin layer of oil using a brush over the griddle.
4. Place it upside down in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Place a foil in the oven's lower rack to catch oil drippings.
6. Let it bake for 1 hour.
7. Let it cool in the oven.

Important note: The seasoning process for cast iron products may differ, depending on the brand. Before buying, read the instructions.

Always heat the griddle first before using it. Use low to mid-flame as you start prepping. Let it heat a while before placing food. To know if you can put food, do a water test. Do this by splashing a few drops of water on the griddle's cooking surface. 

The water should gently 'sizzle and dance.’ If the water sits still and steams, the heat isn't enough. On the other hand, you'll know the cooking surface is too hot if the water evaporates immediately. Based on the result of the water test, you can adjust the heat. 

As for cooking in a cast iron griddle, all you have to do is to keep an eye on the flame and see if the food sticks or not.

How to Cook on a Cast Iron Griddle

Unlike other cookware, you don't need to put oil on the cast iron griddle when cooking. But, it is recommended to brush oil onto the meat or vegetable before cooking. Depending on what meal you plan to cook, you may not have to brush oil onto the meat.

If you're searing steak in a cast iron griddle, refrain from flipping the steak constantly to prevent it from sticking. Leave one side to cook thoroughly before flipping it. Flipping the steak without fully cooking it on one side will break the searing process and cause a mess on the griddle. 

What kind of food can you cook on a cast iron griddle?

You can use a cast iron griddle for cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Basically, any food you can grill or put on a barbecue can be cooked on a cast iron griddle. Here are some foods you can prep using a cast iron pan or griddle:

• Red meats
• Vegetables (e.g., bell pepper, grilled onions)
• Pancakes
• Eggs (Omelet or scrambled eggs)
• Hash browns
• Sausages
• Tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Grilled Cheese
• Burgers

How to Use Cast Iron Griddle on Gas Stoves

If your cast iron griddle is wide enough to fit two stovetops, then it's better to turn on both stovetops. Some stovetops have a provision for a griddle. Remember to place it correctly on the stove and do not drag the griddle when adjusting it. If you need to adjust the griddle, lift it, do not drag it. 

How to Clean Cast Iron Griddle

The secret to a long-lasting cast iron griddle is to clean it properly. Make sure to follow the proper cleaning tips on the instructions that come with it. Any kind of cast iron cookware needs tender, loving care for it to last long.

Here's how to clean your cast iron griddle:

1. As soon as the griddle cools off after cooking, wash it immediately. Do not soak the cast iron griddle underwater. 
2. Use warm water and avoid harsh dishwashing soap.
3. You can use a sponge, brush, or a chainmail stainless steel scrubber to remove the food stuck on the cooking surface.
4. Most cast iron cookware is not dishwasher safe, so make sure to check the cleaning instructions.
5. After washing, dry it using a cotton towel or paper towel, then put it in an open place to dry further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

Now that you know what to look for when buying a cast iron griddle, you can choose from our list of the best in the market. Always keep an eye on its durability, heat retention, the comfort of use, and it’ll definitely be worth it.