Top 5 Best Cast Iron Griddles of 2026
If you’re craving that perfect sear, caramelized veggies, or a breakfast spread that slides off the pan with ease, a cast‑iron griddle is your kitchen’s secret weapon. Durable, heat‑retentive, and naturally non‑stick, these heavy‑duty workhorses turn ordinary meals into restaurant‑quality feasts. But with countless options flooding the market, picking the right one can feel as tough as flipping a pancake on a cold surface. Fear not—our curated list of the
5. Amazon Basics Cast Iron Rectangular Grill
The Amazon Basics Pre‑Seasoned Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle delivers the classic performance of seasoned iron in a versatile, rectangular shape. Measuring 20 × 10.63 × 0.98 inches, it fits comfortably on most stovetops and can slide into a standard oven, where it remains safe up to 500 °F. The reversible design lets you switch between a ridged grill surface for searing steaks and a flat griddle for pancakes, eggs, or sautéed veggies. Sturdy, user‑friendly handles make it easy to lift, while the pre‑seasoned coating provides a natural, non‑chemical patina that improves with each use—just remember it isn’t a synthetic non‑stick surface, so hand‑washing is recommended. Always use hot‑pads, oven mitts, or potholders when moving the pan to protect your hands and preserve the finish.
Pros
- Even heat distribution & retention – solid cast iron eliminates hot spots for consistent cooking results.
- Reversible grill/griddle – two cooking surfaces in one pan, saving space and expanding your menu.
- Oven‑safe to 500 °F – perfect for finishing dishes or baking casseroles without changing cookware.
Cons
- Hand‑wash only – cannot be placed in a dishwasher, which adds a bit of extra cleanup.
- No synthetic non‑stick coating – foods may stick if the seasoning isn’t maintained, requiring occasional re‑seasoning.
4. Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle
The Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle is a 10.5‑inch, pre‑seasoned workhorse that brings the timeless reliability of seasoned cast iron to every kitchen and campsite. Made in the USA by a family‑owned company that’s been perfecting cookware since 1896, this griddle is PFAS‑free and non‑toxic—no PFOA, PTFE, or synthetic chemicals, just pure iron and natural vegetable oil. Its smooth, natural‑oil seasoning creates a non‑stick surface that improves with each use, so pancakes, veggies, tortillas, or a quick sear come out perfectly every time. Thanks to cast iron’s superior heat retention and even distribution, you can move from stovetop to oven, grill, or campfire without missing a beat. Whether you’re feeding a family breakfast or cooking a rustic outdoor dinner, the Lodge round griddle delivers consistent, flavorful results while standing up to the rigors of daily cooking.
Pros
- Healthy, non‑toxic construction – PFAS‑free, seasoned with 100 % natural oil.
- Versatile heat source compatibility – works on stovetop, oven, grill, or campfire.
- Improves with use – seasoning deepens, enhancing non‑stick performance over time.
Cons
- Weight – solid cast iron is heavy; may require a sturdy handle or support when moving.
- Initial seasoning care – needs proper cleaning and occasional re‑oiling to maintain the best surface.
3. Lodge Cast Iron Square Griddle
The Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle brings the timeless reliability of seasoned cast iron to every kitchen and campsite. Pre‑seasoned with 100 % natural vegetable oil, it offers an easy‑release surface right out of the box—perfect for pancakes, burgers, and seared veggies. Its heavy‑gauge cast iron delivers unparalleled heat retention and ultra‑even heating, so you get consistent results whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even over an open fire. The signature teardrop handle provides a comfortable, secure grip for safe maneuvering, and the whole griddle is proudly made in the USA, reflecting Lodge’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Pros
- Ready‑to‑cook surface: Pre‑seasoned for immediate, non‑stick performance.
- Superior heat control: Cast iron retains and distributes heat evenly for perfect sears.
- Versatile use: Works on stove, oven, grill, or campfire, expanding your cooking options.
Cons
- Weight: Solid cast iron makes the griddle heavy, which may be challenging for some users to lift.
- Maintenance: Requires occasional re‑seasoning to preserve the non‑stick finish and prevent rust.
2. Lodge Pro-Grid Cast Iron Grill/Griddle
The Lodge 20 × 10.44‑inch Pro‑Grid Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle is a true workhorse for any kitchen or campsite. Its heavy‑cast iron body is pre‑seasoned, giving you a naturally non‑stick surface that actually improves with every use. Because Lodge eliminates PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE, you can sear steaks, flip pancakes, or sauté vegetables with confidence that the cookware is completely non‑toxic. The clever reversible design lets you grill on one side and switch to a flat griddle on the other, so you can brown burgers while simultaneously cooking eggs without swapping pans. Spanning two burners, the double‑burner coverage provides a generous cooking area, perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re at the stovetop, in the oven, on a grill, or even over a campfire, this pan handles it all. Made in the USA by a family‑owned company that’s been perfecting cast iron since 1896, it’s built to last for generations.
Pros
- PFAS‑free, non‑toxic surface – safer cooking for the whole family.
- Reversible grill/griddle – two cooking styles in one pan, saving space and time.
- Versatile heat compatibility – works on induction, gas, electric, oven, grill, or campfire.
Cons
- Weight – solid cast iron is heavy; may require two hands to maneuver.
- Long pre‑heat – needs a few minutes to reach optimal temperature, which can slow down quick meals.
1. Lodge Grill/Griddle 9.5
Lodge’s Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle gives you two cooking surfaces in one sturdy, pre‑seasoned pan. The 9.5 × 16.75 in. footprint spans two burners, delivering plenty of room for family‑style breakfasts, dinner‑time grill‑outs, or meal‑prep sessions. One side is ribbed for authentic grill marks, while the opposite side is flat for pancakes, eggs, or delicate fish. Because it’s cast iron, heat spreads evenly and stays hot longer, whether you’re on a stovetop (including induction), in the oven, on a grill, or even over a campfire. Lodge’s PFAS‑free, non‑toxic seasoning is just iron and oil—no PFOA or PTFE—so you can cook with confidence. Proudly made in the USA by a family‑owned company that’s been perfecting cookware since 1896, this piece is built to last for generations.
Pros
- Versatile reversible surface – grill one side, griddle the other, eliminating the need for multiple pans.
- Broad heat compatibility – works on any cooktop, oven, grill, or campfire, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor adventures.
- Safe, non‑toxic seasoning – PFAS‑free, PFOA‑free, and pre‑seasoned for immediate use.
Cons
- Weight – solid cast iron is heavy; handling and cleaning may be more demanding than lighter aluminum pans.
- Initial maintenance – despite being pre‑seasoned, occasional re‑seasoning is recommended to maintain the non‑stick surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors determine the “best” cast‑iron griddle for home cooking?
- Size & shape – Choose a surface that fits your stovetop or grill and matches the typical portion size you cook (e.g., 10‑12 in. for 2‑4 servings).
- Weight & thickness – A ¼‑inch thick pan distributes heat evenly and retains it longer, but very heavy models may be harder to maneuver.
- Pre‑seasoned vs. raw – Pre‑seasoned griddles are ready to use out of the box, while raw iron lets you build a custom seasoning layer.
- Handle design – A sturdy, heat‑resistant handle (often riveted) provides a secure grip; some models include a helper handle for extra leverage.
- Compatibility – Most cast‑iron works on gas, electric, induction, and even open‑flame grills, but check the manufacturer’s specs if you plan to use it on a specific surface.
How do I properly season a new cast‑iron griddle and keep it non‑stick?
- Clean the griddle with hot water and a stiff brush (no soap). Dry thoroughly.
- Apply a thin layer of high‑smoke‑point oil (flaxseed, grapeseed, or vegetable oil) to the entire cooking surface, including the sides.
- Heat the pan upside‑down in an oven at 450‑500 °F (230‑260 °C) for 1 hour; place a foil‑lined tray on the lower rack to catch drips.
- Cool in the oven, then repeat the oil
Conclusion
Choosing the right cast‑iron griddle ultimately comes down to balancing durability, heat distribution, and ease of maintenance with your cooking style and kitchen space. A well‑seasoned pan will develop a natural non‑stick surface over time, while a sturdy handle and a flat, even cooking surface ensure consistent results whether you’re searing breakfast staples or mastering restaurant‑quality stir‑fries. Remember that proper care—regular seasoning and gentle cleaning—extends the lifespan of any model, turning a simple purchase into a lifelong culinary ally. With these considerations in mind, you can confidently invest in a griddle that elevates everyday meals and inspires new cooking adventures.