6 Best Cast Iron Skillets for Glass Tops 2025
Dreaming of perfectly seared steaks, crispy roasted vegetables, and golden-brown cornbread, all cooked in the unmatched beauty and durability of a cast iron skillet? But worried about scratches on your sleek glass top stove? Fear not! Cast iron and glass tops can co-exist harmoniously, and we’re here to guide you through the best options. Get ready to ditch the flimsy cookware and embrace the longevity and performance of a high-quality cast iron skillet, specially designed to protect your glass top.
6. Northriver Casting 10.5 Inch Cast Iron Grill Pan with Lid
The Northriver Casting 10.5 Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan with Tempered Glass Lid certainly makes a statement on the stovetop. Its substantial weight, clocking in at a hefty 5.89lbs, prevents any sliding around during cooking, which is a definite plus for safety and stability. The square shape is unique and allows for neat rows of vegetables, chicken, or whatever else you fancy grilling. I found it particularly useful for cooking bacon – the deep grooves efficiently drain grease while retaining the smoky flavor.
While the pan heats evenly and delivers those coveted grill marks, I did notice that the handle, despite its ergonomic design, can get quite hot during use. This requires a bit more attention and caution compared to pans with heat-resistant handles. Also, the square shape, while great for organized cooking, can be a bit limiting for larger items like whole chicken breasts or thick steaks.
The tempered glass lid is a welcome addition, effectively trapping moisture and preventing splattering. This makes it ideal for steaming vegetables or cooking foods that benefit from a slightly covered environment. However, the lid isn’t as sturdy as some others I’ve used, and I wouldn’t recommend using it for high-heat searing.
Overall, the Northriver Casting Square Grill Pan is a solid performer, especially for those who prioritize even heating and the classic sear marks. Its square shape and weight are definite strengths, but the hot handle and potential limitations with larger items are factors to consider. While it’s not the most versatile pan in my kitchen, its performance and unique design definitely earn it a place on the stovetop.
5. Cast Iron Griddle, Reversible Grill/Griddle, Pre-Seasoned
This 5-piece cast iron griddle kit aims to deliver that coveted restaurant-quality BBQ experience right in your own kitchen. I put it to the test and found the griddle itself to be well-made and sturdy. The cast iron construction definitely delivers on heat retention and even heat distribution, which is essential for perfect grill marks and evenly cooked food. The griddle’s pre-seasoning did a good job initially, but I did notice that some sticking occurred after a few uses. This might require a bit more care in seasoning compared to some other griddles I’ve tried.
The included grill press is a nice addition, allowing you to flatten burgers and achieve those classic grill marks with ease. The wood handle remains comfortably cool, even during extended grilling sessions. The pan scraper is a practical inclusion, making cleaning up the griddle after use a breeze. However, I found the scraper to be a bit flimsy, and I worry about its durability over time.
The mini gloves, while cute, felt a bit too small for my hands and didn’t offer much protection from the heat.
At this price point, it’s a pretty good deal. You get a solid cast iron griddle, a grill press, and a pan scraper, which are all useful tools for home grilling enthusiasts. The included gloves are a nice bonus, although they might not be the most practical. However, be prepared to put in a little extra effort to maintain the seasoning on the griddle for optimal performance.
4. NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate
The NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate is a decent option for those looking to add some versatility to their kitchen. The 18-inch size is great for feeding a family, and the reversible design means you can go from grilling steaks to flipping pancakes with ease. The flat side is perfect for sauteing vegetables or making omelets, while the ridged side provides those classic grill marks for meats and chicken. I found the cast iron construction to be sturdy and well-made, and it heats up evenly on both sides.
However, the NutriChef grill plate does have some drawbacks. While it’s marketed as easy to clean, I found that the seasoning process was a bit more involved than I anticipated. It required several coats of oil and careful heating to achieve a truly non-stick surface. And even after seasoning, I still found myself needing to scrub a bit harder than I would with other non-stick cookware. Another downside is that the two-burner fit can be a bit tricky. It works fine on my stove, but I can see how it might be too large for some setups.
In terms of value, the NutriChef grill plate is pretty reasonable. It’s a solid piece of cookware that will last for years, especially if you take care of it properly. Just be prepared to put in a bit of effort when it comes to seasoning and cleaning. The included silicone oven mitt is a nice bonus, though.
Overall, the NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate is a decent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and durable piece of cookware. Just be aware of the potential drawbacks before you buy.
3. Vayepro Griddle Pan Glass Lid Non-Stick
The Vayepro Griddle Pan with Glass Lid presents itself as a versatile cooking solution, promising to handle everything from pancakes to searing steaks. It boasts a spacious 17″ x 10.5″ surface, adequate for feeding a family or prepping for a small gathering. The included glass lid is a welcome addition, helping to trap heat and prevent splatter, a feature that proved particularly useful when cooking eggs. The non-stick coating performed admirably, making flipping burgers and releasing grilled cheese a breeze. Cleanup was also a cinch, thanks to the dishwasher-safe construction.
However, despite its attractive features, the Vayepro griddle has some drawbacks. While advertised as suitable for both gas and electric stovetops, I found it didn’t distribute heat evenly. This resulted in hot and cold spots on the griddle surface, particularly noticeable when searing thicker cuts of meat. The aluminum construction, while lightweight and easy to handle, lacks the durability of cast iron. I noticed some minor warping after repeated use on high heat, a concern for longevity.
The griddle’s claimed resistance to warping due to its patented 14-rib design felt somewhat questionable. While the ribs did seem to offer some structural support, the warping was still noticeable. The handle, while comfortable to grip, became quite hot during prolonged cooking, requiring the use of an oven mitt for safe handling.
Overall, the Vayepro Griddle Pan offers decent performance for its price point, particularly for casual cooking. The non-stick surface and ease of cleaning are definite pluses. However, issues with heat distribution, potential warping, and a hot handle detract from its overall value. For serious cooks or those seeking a long-lasting griddle, investing in a heavier-duty option made from cast iron might be a better choice.
2. Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan, Pre-Seasoned
This Cuisinel cast iron square grill pan is a kitchen workhorse. The 10.5-inch size is perfect for searing steaks, grilling vegetables, or even making a delicious breakfast hash. The ridged surface creates beautiful grill marks and allows for excellent browning. What truly sets this pan apart is the even heat distribution. Whether you’re using it on the stovetop, grill, or even over an open fire, the heat cooks consistently, preventing hot spots and ensuring every bite is perfectly cooked.
I found the pre-seasoning to be excellent. The pan arrived ready to use, and I didn’t need to do any additional seasoning before cooking. The smooth finish makes it easy to clean, though, as with any cast iron, hand washing is recommended.
The included glass lid is a bonus, allowing you to monitor the cooking process without lifting the lid and losing heat. It also helps to trap steam, making it perfect for steaming vegetables or cooking a juicy roast. The pan scraper and handle cover add to the overall value, providing everything you need for a great cooking experience.
For the price, this Cuisinel cast iron grill pan is an exceptional value. It’s durable, heats evenly, and is versatile enough for a wide range of cooking applications. While it does require hand washing, the benefits it offers far outweigh this minor drawback. If you’re looking for a high-quality cast iron pan that will last for years to come, this is an excellent choice.
1. Vayepro 2 Burner Griddle Pan, Glass Lid
This Vayepro 2 Burner Griddle Pan is a real game-changer. As someone who loves to cook, especially outdoors, this griddle has quickly become a staple in my kitchen and on my camping gear. The thing I love most is the even heat distribution. Thanks to the unique 14 rib design on the back, there are no hot spots or warping, ensuring your food cooks perfectly every time. I’ve used it on both my gas stove and my portable camping stove with no issues. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor cooking.
The non-stick surface is incredible! Nothing sticks to it, making cooking and cleaning a breeze. I’ve made everything from pancakes to grilled cheese to steak on this griddle, and cleanup is a snap. Just a quick wipe and it’s ready for the next meal. The included glass lid is a nice bonus. It helps to keep the heat in and prevents messy splatters, which is great for both indoor and outdoor cooking.
I’ve been really impressed with the durability of this griddle. It’s made from high-quality aluminum that feels sturdy and well-made. It’s also dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus for me. The fact that it’s free of PTFE and PFOA is a big plus too, knowing I’m using a safe and healthy product.
Overall, I think this Vayepro 2 Burner Griddle Pan is an excellent value for the price. It’s versatile, durable, easy to use, and cleans up a breeze. The only minor drawback is that it’s not compatible with induction burners, but that hasn’t been a problem for me. I highly recommend this griddle to anyone who loves to cook!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a cast iron skillet safe and suitable for use on a glass top stove?
A: Not all cast iron skillets are created equal when it comes to glass top stoves. Look for skillets with a smooth, flat bottom. The smoother the surface, the less likely it is to scratch your glass top. Additionally, some manufacturers might offer cast iron skillets specifically designed for glass top stoves.
Q: How do I prevent my cast iron skillet from damaging my glass top stove?
A: To protect your glass top stove, avoid sliding the skillet across the surface. Always lift it when moving it. Also, use medium to low heat settings. High heat can warp the skillet and potentially damage the glass top.
Q: Can I use any seasoning on a cast iron skillet for glass top stoves?
A: Yes, you can use the same seasoning techniques on a cast iron skillet for a glass top stove as you would for any other type of stovetop. Just be sure to apply a thin, even layer of oil and heat it properly to polymerize the oil and create a protective layer.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cast iron skillet for your glass top stove depends on your individual needs and cooking style. Whether you prioritize even heating, ease of cleaning, or a specific size, there’s a perfect cast iron skillet out there for you. With proper care and seasoning, your chosen skillet will become a cherished kitchen companion for years to come. Happy cooking!