We live in a modern society where less and less is being done outdoors. Several people live floors up in tower blocks or even in basements. Wherever you may live, you’ll agree that grilling outdoors is not an easy thing for a lot of people to do.
But, with any one of these grill pans, you’ll get a great mimic of an outdoor grilling experience without the associated smoke, setup or stress. Each one is sure to make a suitable replacement for large garden grills which make can make grilling both difficult and boring.
Giving perfect grilled food and requiring less space, check out any one of the best grill pans currently available. Remembering, that any of them will give you that “full of flavor” experience that will have your guests wondering where you bought it from!
What Is A Grill Pan?
A grill pan is is a pan that looks like a frying pan but has grill lines all over its interior. These grill lines are usually slightly raised to allow for oil dripping as opposed to a basic fry pan. They mimic an outdoor grill in a simple yet effective way.
Grilling is a form of cooking that involves dry heat applied to your food surface. This provides a more seasoned taste, as the flavors are better absorbed during the dry-heating process. No medium (e.g., water or oil) is between your food and the heat source.
This process was usually only achievable on an outdoor grill: webbed aluminum or steel wires over a heat source, usually charcoal or an open fire.
A grill pan, however, eliminates all of these setups by providing you the same results in a compact, easy to use item. Most are compatible with all stovetops while others extend their function to oven compatibility.
Griddles (grill pans) transfer heat evenly, so the heat source does not need constant regulation as with outdoor wire grills. Steak, chicken, vegetables, seafood, you name it, a grill pan does the trick. And it does so professionally with very reliable results!
So, let’s find out which is the best grill pan for you…
The Best Grill Pans Reviews
1. Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet Grill, Caribbean
The Le Creuset is a 10.25-inch square type skillet grill. This product comes in eight fancy colors that will make your day, every day. Aside from its great looks, it, however, packs a punch.
So, what do you get with this product?
This grill pan is made of materials that heat up quickly and evenly. Hence, you do not get any hot spots. This makes for a fine grill every time.
Its several ridges make marks on your food for that natural grill look. The most important function of these grill ridges is that it allows you to use much less oil while grilling. Its non-stick function complements this design to make for more savings and health benefits.
What’s more?
This pan is manufactured with enameled cast iron. Its cast-iron handle and opposite helper handle facilitate convenient transport. The overall structure is hardened and neither chips or cracks to give you a long lasting item.
It’s satin black finish helps to prevent damage and wear while also making the Creuset dishwasher safe. An all-round grill, this item is a great item to include on your next purchase list.
Pros
- Eight colors to choose from.
- Even and quick heating.
- Requires less oil for grilling.
- Made with high-quality materials.
- Doesn’t chip or crack.
- Dishwasher safe.
Cons
- The non-stick feature needs improvement.
2. All-Clad E7954064 HA1 Nonstick Dishwasher Safe Grill Cookware, Black
The All-Clad E7954064 is an 11-inch grill pan. Fusing safety and function, it has a lot on display.
So, what’s so special about this product?
First, the E7954064 HA1 is extra hardened for durability. The material used in its build is a hard anodized aluminum that can withstand very high heat levels and never warps. This material is however lightweight, so it’s easy to use the product.
Its square shape is a great fit for steak, fish and vegetable grills. The ridged bottom of the pan makes for perfect results as it has a non-stick coat. These ridges also allow for less oil use as they move the oils away from direct contact with what you are grilling.
The best part?
It has tall rims that hold in splatters when you are turning your grill food and handles that never heat up, which adds to your safety. Firmly riveted in place, you can be confident of its use.
Chemical free (PFOA free), it gives you safe foods. Compatible with dishwashers, ovens (up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit), and induction cookers, convenience and flexibility are what this was built for. With its limited lifetime warranty, so you’ll also get unrivaled assurance!
Pros
- Extra hardened for superior performance and durability.
- Square shape makes for better grill fit.
- Require less oil.
- Tall rims that eliminate hot splatters.
- “Ever cool” handles.
- PFOA free.
- Dishwasher, oven, and all-cooker compatible.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Does not offer even heating.
- The ridged bottom does not sit properly on most cooktops.
3. Lodge LPGI3 Pro-Grid Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle Pan
Practice makes perfect. But, if you’ve been practicing for well over 100 years, well, what do you expect? Founded in 1896, the Lodge LPGI3 Pro-Grid has a lot to show for their years of experience.
So, what do you get with this product?
Where old meets new, the LPGI3 comes in two per pack. Its cast iron grid has reversible sides. On one side is its grill, on the other, a griddle. This widens its use of operation to meets more of your needs.
Even better, it comes with two handles that provide a comfortable grip. It is 100 percent free of coating or chemicals which make it very safe to use. And, its iron structure absorbs seasoning and releases them into your food to make for a finer, in-depth taste!
Providing even distribution, its wide structure can handle a lot. It is wide enough to fit two stove burners, and this makes for its prompt heat up time despite its imposing size.
Easy to use; in an oven, on a grill or on a stove, it can handle outdoor use as well, such as over a campfire. This versatility of use is sure to leave many positive experiences on your mind and your tastebuds. And if you also decide to include its optional grill press, all the more so!
Pros
- Dual sides (grill and griddle).
- Two handles provide better support.
- Free from harmful chemicals.
- Better seasoning absorption by your foods.
- Even heat distribution.
- Wide size accommodates larger foods.
- All-cooker, and oven compatible.
- Well suited for outdoor use.
- Optional grill press makes for better grilling.
Cons
- Not a new design, so it commonly has age-related errors (like cracking while heated).
- Very heavy.
- No non-stick feature.
- Prone to rusting.
4. Cuisinart CI30-23CR Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan
Aim high, and you might just fall among the stars. The Cuisinart CI30-23CR Chef’s Classic aimed high, but they’ve been so consistent, that we might just classify them as being a star brand!
What do you get with this product?
This square classic comes with a fine finish and three color variants. And, its interior is layered with porcelain enamel making it non-stick. This material also makes the CI30-23CR dishwasher and oven compatible.
And, that’s not all…
It has a wide cast iron handle that is comfortable to use. And, its overall cast iron construction is efficient at conducting heat evenly and quickly.
Requiring less oil in use, as it is fitted with ridges, so you’ll also get the grill finish lines on your food. This product is durable and offers you a great grill on any cooker type you own.
Pros
- Great finish with three colors to choose from.
- Dishwasher and oven compatible.
- Non-stick.
- Comfortable handle.
- Ridgelines for the perfect grill finish.
- Durable product.
- Compatible with all stovetops.
Cons
- Fragile; chips easily.
- Prone to rusting when chipped.
5. Calphalon Contemporary Aluminum Nonstick Cookware, Black
Calphalon invented hard-anodized aluminum cookware, and over the last fifty years, they’ve made several improvements to their invention to make them the best in the field.
What do you get with this product?
The Calphalon Contemporary grill pan uses pure medium-gauge aluminum in its manufacture. This makes it lightweight yet hardy. The aluminum is then hard-anodized to make for its effective heat distribution as well as being chipping and scratch resistant.
Its interior features three layers of non-stick coating. The first two provide durability and the third layer is non-stick for easy food release and cleaning. It also makes it dishwasher compatible.
Other amazing features?
This product is PFOE free. Without the inclusion of harmful chemicals, your grilled meals will always be safe to eat. And, being oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, you also get flexibility of use.
The ergonomic handle that never heats allows for continuous comfortable use. And, the deep ridges ensure you use less oil and gives you the perfect grill finish.
Coming with a Calphalon’s full lifetime warranty, it offers the perfect solution to your grilling needs!
Pros
- Durable chemical-free non-stick Coating.
- Extra layered and hardened for superior performance and durability.
- Lightweight.
- PFOE free.
- Comfortable “stay cool” handles.
- Deep ridges make for less oil use.
- Great grill food finish.
- Features Calphalon’s full lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Not dishwasher compatible as advertised.
- It is not scratch resistant.
- Not metal utensil safe.
6. TeChef – Stovetop Korean BBQ Non-Stick Grill Pan
Design and function, the TeChef is a pro at any level. With its 5 layered non-stick surface and heavy aluminum build, you’ll never need another grill pan.
Five coats are better than one…
You get just about the best non-stick available with this pan. It incorporates a DuPont Teflon Select Print coating (coated five times). Its coats are patterned in a unique swirled channel that allows for oil drain from your grilled foods.
This coating is chemical free and makes for healthy cooking. Its dome shape allows for easy grease drain, as is applicable to outdoor grills. Install the drip cup, and it is a fully automatic process!
And, that’s not all…
The exceptional quality of this product makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Compatible with all stovetops, it also adapts to high heat such as that from a campfire.
Easy and fun to use, it is the perfect tool for your low- fat diets, as its drain hole and no-stick will keep the fats out and give you the absolute best grill to help control your carbs, calories, fat, and cholesterol.
Pros
- Great, functional design.
- Five layered swirl non-stick for superior performance.
- Chemical free coating.
- Grease drain for superior grill results.
- Indoor/outdoor use compatible.
- No oil required in its use.
Cons
- Shallow side walls.
- Very short side handles.
- The grease drip cup is sold as a different item.
7. Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick Deep Square Grill Pan, Gray
From the renowned cooks signature line, you’ll get great results using the Rachael Ray grill pan. Its 11 inches square design ensures you can fit much larger chunks in it while still getting quality, well-grilled food.
So, what is all the hype?
Hard-anodized construction is one. This makes this cookware exceptionally durable, plus, it allows for quick and even heating. This material eliminates hotspots that could reduce grill quality.
And secondly, is the exterior. Rachael Ray’s grill pan is clear coated for an attractive finish. This coat is very durable and is dishwasher compatible.
The interior?
Its non-stick interior makes for easy food release and easy cleaning.
The handles provide you a comfortable grip and are rubber padded, so they never get hot. And, as opposed to the rubber you might be thinking of, this product is oven safe (up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit), so you can be sure it isn’t the rubber in normal plasticware.
Scratch resistant and backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the Rachael Ray is sure to stand by all your grill needs and stay with you all the way!
Pros
- Square design make for bigger interior.
- Made with top quality materials.
- Clear coated attractive finish.
- Dishwasher and oven compatible.
- Comfortable non-heat handles.
- Scratch resistant.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Requires careful maintenance.
- Low ridges make for slightly more oil required in grilling.
8. Anolon Advanced Nonstick Deep Square Grill Pan, Gray
The Anolon is one grill pan that offers you a lot of flexibility with its use. Oven (up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit) compatible, it only gets better…
This product is cast from heavy-duty aluminum that is hard-anodized for superior durability. This combination is famed for its quick and even heating properties.
The ridges of this grill pan make grill marks on your food to make for a complete visual experience. These ridges also help keep the oils drained. Plus, by using its pour spouts, you can easily remove these fats, oils, and grease.
At 11 inches square, the pan holds above-average food chunks. On its interior are channels all around that hold collected oils. The hardy interior permits metal utensil usage and its non-stick surface ensures easy release of foods and easy cleaning.
Hardy plus non-stick equals dishwasher compatible!
SureGrip by name, SureGrip by nature. Therefore, “Sure” soft grasp with a comfortable “Grip” is assured. It also never heats up.
PFOA-free and a lifetime warranty, cook with style, anywhere, as your foods are safe on this grill pan!
Pros
- Oven and dishwasher compatible.
- Made from high-quality materials.
- Quick and even heating.
- Grill ridges and channels to drain and collect excess oils.
- Comfortable non-heat handle.
- PFOA free.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Doesn’t do well on induction cooktops.
- Warps easily.
9. Calphalon 1948254 Signature Hard Anodized Nonstick Grill Pan, Black
If you are a person who likes to flip their grill, just for the thrill of it, then this pan is for you. The triple riveted handle that never heats up is capable of delivering just that, as it is safely and firmly secured in place!
Is there more?
The Calphalon 1948254’s interior is made with a Sear Nonstick surface that distributes heat evenly. This allows for proper searing and browning. This superior non-stick allows for less oil use, easy cleaning, and easy food release.
Super durable, it accommodates intense use, and its interior surface does not chip or scratch, even when using metal utensils. Dishwasher compatible, it is also free of harmful chemicals (PFOA free) in its manufacture.
A perfect finish…
It will add grill marks to your food while effectively draining and collecting its oils, and you get a perfect finish on any food you place on the grill pan!
Oven compatible (up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit) and gas, electric, electric ring, halogen, and glass stovetop compatible, it can be used just about anywhere.
With a full lifetime warranty, it assures you to be reliably available at any time your cravings require indulging yourself and family or friends in a grilled meal!
Pros
- Firmly secure handles allow for food flipping.
- Ever cool handles.
- Superior non-stick.
- Chip and scratch resistant interior allow for use with metal utensils.
- PFOA free.
- Dishwasher and oven compatible.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Not compatible with induction cookers.
- Made from light gauge aluminum.
- The exterior is not hardy, and peels, chips easily.
10. Weber Style 6435 Professional-Grade Grill Pan
Most ideal for outdoor use, the Weber Style 6435 brings you closer to nature. Allowing you to grill without limits, as is the company’s mantra. It handles large and small foods, as well as delicate ones that often collapse into the ridges of several grill pans, such as, fish fillets.
This pan is made of stainless steel. It can, therefore, conduct and spread heat properly across its surface. It also makes it an exceptionally durable item.
More amazing features?
The grill slits of the 6435 are only 0.125 inches wide. This allows for easy oils outflow while keeping your food in one piece.
Even better, this product is easy to clean and has a well-polished surface that is stick resistant. And, with dimensions of 17.5 x 11.8 x 1.6 inches, just think of the food, and it’ll fit!
Pros
- The large surface area fits much larger foods.
- Stainless steel build makes for even heat distribution.
- Durable product.
- Tiny grill slits allow for use with any food type.
- Easy to clean.
Cons
- Not cooktop compatible.
- No non-stick coat.
- When not cleaned immediately after use, foods stick indefinitely to its surface.
Best Grill Pan Buying Guide
A few simple tips will help you make a better grill pan pick. From the basic to the not so obvious, we have listed them here for you:
Ridges
When grilling, you need basically no oil or grease on your food. Selecting a grill pan with deep ridges helps you achieve these as the oils that drip from your food (e.g., steak) collect in these ridges. Some pans offer free drain and additional depressions to collect these unwanted oils.
Select one with lots of deep ridges for the perfect grill effect.
Heat Distribution
Selecting a pan that is manufactured with materials that guarantee even heat distribution is always a good idea. This eliminates hot spots which can ruin your food. These hot spots can result in the same piece of food being well cooked and semi-cooked at the same time, which is not a pleasant experience.
Pan Shape
Grill pans come in square and circular shapes, however, a square pan offers you more space even if they are indicated to have the same dimensions. The square shape increases the available surface area and offers you a lot more room when you need to grill for a number of people, or grill large chunks of food.
Grill Press
Usually overlooked, but if you want defined grill marks for a better taste and visual experience, choose a pan that comes with a matching press. You will still get good results without the press, but if you want to raise your cooking game, then a press is a must.
Practicality/Versatility
Some pans offer you additional features such as dishwasher and oven compatibility. Buying a product with these features is a better idea as you never know when you might need them.
A non-stick coating is also essential. Superior non-stick ensures easy release of foods and is easier to wash. This saves you a lot of stress and gives you better-defined foods.
Extras such as handles that do not heat up should likewise be looked at, to ensure your hands are safe with using your grill pan.
Lastly, look out for and avoid products made with harmful chemicals which seep into your foods and may cause damage to your health.
How To Use A Grill Pan
It’s best to set your heat source at medium. Your pan will do the rest if you follow these simple steps:
As indicated, turn your stove or oven to medium heat and place your grill pan on the stove. You can check the heat levels with your hand, but it generally does not take more than five minutes at medium heat. Allow the pan to heat before placing your food on it, to be grilled.
Oiling – this is not required for fish, chicken, pork, beef, etc. as their fats melt during grilling to oil the grill pan. For foods like vegetables, do not coat the grill pan with oil as it might smoke. Instead, spray the oil onto the vegetables. You will get the best results using this method.
Time to place your food on the grill pan. Lay them adjacent to the grill ridges, so you get grill marks. Your grill pan most likely doesn’t come with a cover, but covering it with one from your other cookware speeds up the grilling process.
When one side is done, flip it over to grill the other side as well.
FAQ’s
Can I Use A Grill Pan On A Glass Top Stove?
Yes, you can. The only few exceptions to this rule are a very heavy pan or one with a concave or ridged bottom. These might not be able to withstand the heat produced by a glass top stove’s recessed coils. However, since most grill pans do not feature any of the above, they will do just fine.
Where To Buy A Grill Pan?
Amazon.com is a great option. While offering you free returns for a certain period, even on products that do not have a warranty, they are not at the top of the world sales and distribution list without reason.
While we have given you in-depth reviews, with pros, cons and a Buyers Guide to guide your purchase to be the best it can be, clinking on any of the links above and checking out the customer reviews will also be a great move!
Each and every one of these items are winners across several categories of testing and are sure to make a perfect grill experience every time you use them.
While you can also buy in-store, the comfort of delivery to your doorstep saves you a lot of stress, and expense, as you will agree that a trip to the store usually has your shopping basket fuller than you planned it to be!
So, What Are The Best Grill Pans?
Your cravings are unlimited, and neither are your choices. A grill pan gives you a great outdoor experience from the comfort of your kitchen. These make them invaluable in every kitchen.
We have identified the grill pans that are currently of the best value and give perfect results, every time, and we hope this article has been of help in choosing the right one for you.
As for us, we think the best of the bunch is the…
Combining great looks with well-rounded functions, it stands above the rest.
As if its five layered non-stick surface and heavy aluminum build are not enough, it is chemical free and has a grease drain that offers you superior results. No oil is required for its use, as well as being indoor and outdoor compatible; it is the best of the best.
You really should check it out. You won’t be disappointed!
