Best Grill Pans (2026)
A quality grill pan brings outdoor grilling flavor indoors, delivering those coveted char marks and smoky taste year-round. Whether you prefer classic cast iron or easy-clean nonstick, these are the best grill pans for every cooking style and budget.
In a hurry? The Lodge Cast Iron 10.5″ Square Grill Pan is the best grill pan for most people. Need something easier to clean? Go with the SENSARTE 9.5″ Nonstick Grill Pan. Want premium enameled cast iron? The Le Creuset Signature Square Skillet Grill is worth the upgrade.
| Product | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Lodge Cast Iron 10.5″ Grill Pan | Best Overall | Pre-seasoned, made in USA |
| Lodge BOLD 12″ Grill Pan | Best Large Capacity | Modern design, larger cooking surface |
| Le Creuset Signature Square Grill | Best Premium | Enameled cast iron, no seasoning needed |
| SENSARTE 9.5″ Nonstick Grill Pan | Best Budget | PFOA-free nonstick, easy cleanup |
| Lodge Chef Collection 11″ Grill Pan | Best Heat Retention | Lighter weight, premium finish |
| CAROTE 11″ Nonstick Grill Pan | Best Value | Granite nonstick coating |
| HexClad Hybrid 12″ Griddle Pan | Best Hybrid | Metal utensil safe, dishwasher safe |
| Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan | Best with Accessories | Includes lid, scraper, handle cover |
What to Look For
- Material — Cast iron delivers the best heat retention and grill marks, but requires seasoning maintenance. Enameled cast iron eliminates seasoning needs but costs more. Nonstick offers easy cleanup but cannot reach the same high temperatures.
- Ridge height — Taller ridges create more defined grill marks and keep food elevated above rendered fats. Look for ridges at least 0.5mm high for proper char lines.
- Size and shape — Square grill pans provide more usable cooking surface than round pans. A 10-12 inch pan suits most home stovetops while providing space for multiple portions.
- Weight — Cast iron grill pans are heavy, which helps retain heat but makes maneuvering difficult. Consider lighter alternatives if weight is a concern.
- Pour spouts — Spouts on the sides make draining rendered fat easier and safer, keeping your stovetop cleaner during cooking.
- Handle design — Look for handles that stay cool on the stovetop or come with protective covers. Helper handles on the opposite side assist when moving heavy pans.
Best Grill Pans
Lodge Cast Iron 10.5″ Square Grill Pan — Best Overall
- YOUR NEW GO-TO GRILL PAN: Lodge cast iron cookware is the perfect kitchen tool for beginners, home cooks and chefs. Cast iron can handle any kitchen cooktop, oven, grill, and open flame. Crafted in America with iron and oil, its naturally seasoned cooking surface creates an easy-release and improves with use
- SEASONED COOKWARE: Seasoning is simply oil baked into the iron, giving it a natural, easy-release finish and helps prevent your pan from rusting. Lodge pre-seasons all cast iron cookware with 100% natural vegetable oil: no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use this stove top griddle the better the seasoning will get!
- RUST? DON’T PANIC! IT’S NOT BROKEN: When your pan arrives you may notice a spot that looks like rust. It is simply oil that has not fully carbonized. With regular use and care the spot will disappear. If you do notice rust simply scour the affected area with steel wool, rinse, dry, and rub with vegetable oil
- COOKING VERSATILITY: Our grill pans have unparalleled heat retention that gives you edge-to-edge even cooking every time you use your grill pan. Cast iron cookware is slow to heat up but retains heat longer which makes cast iron ideal for pan-frying and roasting, these delicious moments are cast to last
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it is a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America. Lodge products are made in the USA with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material
The Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan delivers restaurant-quality sear marks at an accessible price point, making it the go-to choice for most home cooks.
Made in the USA with pre-seasoned cast iron, this 10.5-inch square grill pan is ready to use out of the box. The natural seasoning creates an easy-release surface that improves with use, while the cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution and excellent heat retention. Works on any cooktop including induction, gas, electric, and even campfire cooking.
Pros:
- Pre-seasoned and ready to use
- Made in USA with lifetime durability
- Works on all heat sources
- Affordable cast iron quality
Cons:
- Heavy at nearly 5 pounds
- Requires ongoing seasoning maintenance
Best for: Home cooks who want classic cast iron performance at a reasonable price.
Lodge BOLD 12″ Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Pan — Best Large Capacity
- 12 INCH CAST IRON GRILL PAN: Seasoned and ready to use, this cast iron grill pan features modern handles and grill ribs to help achieve the perfect sear, all in an essential size ideal for all kitchens.
- HEAT RETENTION: This cast iron grill pan features unparalleled heat retention for consistent, high-heat cooking and even heat distribution without hotspots.
- NATURALLY NONSTICK: This naturally seasoned cast iron grill pan is made with just iron and vegetable oil, creating a quick-release surface that gets better with use — just hand wash, dry, and rub with oil to preserve finish.
- COOK ANYWHERE: Cast iron cookware is oven-safe and can be used on so many heat sources, including glass-top stoves, induction, grills, or even live fire.
- MADE IN THE USA: Designed and made in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, where the people of Lodge Cast Iron have been crafting quality cookware since 1896.
The Lodge BOLD brings modern design and a larger cooking surface to the classic cast iron grill pan, perfect for cooking multiple steaks at once.
This 12-inch grill pan features Lodge’s modern BOLD design with updated handles, sloped sidewalls, and contemporary styling that looks at home in any kitchen. The naturally seasoned surface becomes increasingly nonstick with use, delivering superior grill marks and flavor. Made in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, where Lodge has been crafting cast iron since 1896.
Pros:
- Larger 12-inch cooking surface
- Modern design with improved handles
- Naturally nonstick when seasoned
- Oven and grill safe
Cons:
- Heavier than standard grill pans
- Premium price for cast iron
Best for: Cooks who need extra cooking space for family meals or entertaining.
Le Creuset Signature Square Skillet Grill 10.25″ — Best Premium
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The Le Creuset Signature Grill combines premium enameled cast iron construction with elegant French design, eliminating seasoning hassles while delivering exceptional performance.
This enameled cast iron grill pan features a black satin enamel interior that heats quickly and provides superior browning without the maintenance of traditional cast iron. The colorful exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking while adding visual appeal. Tall, well-defined ridges create professional-looking grill marks on steaks, chicken, and vegetables.
Pros:
- No seasoning required
- Easy cleanup with enameled surface
- Beautiful colorful exterior options
- Excellent heat retention
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Heavy construction
Best for: Cooks who want cast iron performance without the maintenance.
SENSARTE 9.5″ Nonstick Grill Pan — Best Budget
- Nonstick & Easy to Clean: The Switzerland ILAG nonstick coating is very effective in preventing anything from sticking to the surface, even with minimal oil, and also makes cleaning a breeze, just wipe it with a paper towel or rinse it with water. Free of PFOA and PFOS.
- Sturdy & Durable: This grill pan is made of die cast aluminum, stury and no warp. The bakelite handle features comfortable to grip and stays cool to the touch.
- Versatile Griddle Pan: This is a versatile tool to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise or fry. You can cook steak, bacon, grill cheese, chicken breast and veggies indoor or outdoor, no matter the weather is hot or cold, wet or dry.
- Good for All Cooktops: This grill skillet can be used on gas, electric, induction and glass or ceramic cooktops. The thick high magnetic conductive stainless steel base helps distribute heat evenly and quickly.
- Perfect Grill Marks: The raised ribs leave perfect grill marks for a great presentation and keep the fat down in the grooves. The pour spouts on either side of the pan make it easy to drain those excess fats and liquids.
The SENSARTE delivers impressive grilling performance at an entry-level price, making indoor grilling accessible to budget-conscious cooks.
This PFOA-free nonstick grill pan features a durable cooking surface that releases food easily and cleans up quickly. The square design maximizes cooking area while pour spouts on the sides make draining fat simple. Works on gas, electric, and ceramic cooktops (not induction). The lightweight construction makes it easier to handle than heavy cast iron alternatives.
Pros:
- Affordable entry point
- Easy nonstick cleanup
- PFOA-free coating
- Lightweight and maneuverable
Cons:
- Not compatible with induction
- Cannot achieve cast iron temperatures
Best for: Budget buyers who prioritize easy cleanup over extreme heat.
Lodge Chef Collection 11″ Square Grill Pan — Best Heat Retention
- Cast Iron Grill Pan: This 11-inch square grill pan, a part of Lodge's Chef Collection, is a durable cast iron pan ready to help you experiment in the kitchen like a pro
- Versatile Cast Iron Metal Pan: This oven-safe, non-stick pan can be used on a stove, over a grill, or even on a fire, reinforcing its position as a true kitchen essential
- Safe & Thoughtful Design: Made with nontoxic, PFOA and PTFE free material, this cast iron grill pan features supportive dual handles, sloped sidewalls, and an elevated ribbed surface
- Easy-to-Use Grill Pan: This grill pan offers a generous cooking surface, making it a superior choice among metal pans with an impressive area of 81 square inches
The Lodge Chef Collection elevates the classic cast iron grill pan with a smoother cooking surface, lighter weight, and more refined construction.
This premium Lodge line features cast iron that’s been engineered to be about 15% lighter than standard Lodge while maintaining excellent heat retention. The smoother cooking surface is fully seasoned and ready to use, developing better nonstick properties faster than traditional cast iron. The 11-inch square surface provides ample room for steaks or multiple chicken breasts.
Pros:
- Lighter than standard cast iron
- Smoother cooking surface
- Superior heat retention
- Professional-grade construction
Cons:
- Higher price than standard Lodge
- Still requires seasoning maintenance
Best for: Serious cooks who want premium cast iron performance with reduced weight.
CAROTE 11″ Nonstick Grill Pan — Best Value
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The CAROTE delivers premium nonstick performance with a granite-style coating at a mid-range price that outperforms its cost.
This 11-inch square grill pan features a PFOA-free granite nonstick coating that provides excellent food release and durability. The larger cooking surface accommodates family portions while the compatible design works on gas and induction stovetops. Deep ridges create defined grill marks, and the comfortable handle stays cool during cooking.
Pros:
- Excellent nonstick performance
- Works on induction cooktops
- Large 11-inch cooking surface
- PFOA-free construction
Cons:
- Nonstick coating can degrade over time
- Cannot withstand extreme high heat
Best for: Cooks who want quality nonstick performance at a reasonable price.
HexClad Hybrid 12″ Griddle Pan — Best Hybrid
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The HexClad Hybrid combines stainless steel durability with nonstick convenience in a unique hexagon-patterned design that allows metal utensil use.
This innovative griddle pan features HexClad’s signature laser-etched pattern where raised stainless steel hexagons provide searing capability while nonstick valleys deliver easy release. The tri-ply construction ensures even heating, and the pan is dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup. Oven-safe to 500°F and compatible with all cooktops including induction.
Pros:
- Metal utensil safe
- Dishwasher safe
- Works on all cooktops
- Unique hybrid surface
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Flat surface rather than ridged
Best for: Cooks who want versatile performance with easy maintenance.
Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan with Lid — Best with Accessories
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The Cuisinel set includes a glass lid, pan scraper, and silicone handle cover, providing everything needed for versatile indoor grilling.
This 10.5-inch pre-seasoned cast iron grill pan comes bundled with useful accessories that enhance cooking flexibility. The tempered glass lid allows steaming and monitoring without lifting, while the silicone handle cover protects hands from heat. The included pan scraper follows ridge contours for easier cleaning. Works on stovetops, in ovens, on grills, and over campfires.
Pros:
- Complete accessory set included
- Glass lid for versatile cooking
- Pre-seasoned and ready to use
- Excellent value proposition
Cons:
- Standard cast iron weight
- Requires ongoing seasoning
Best for: Cooks who want a complete grill pan setup in one purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best grill pan for most people?
The Lodge Cast Iron 10.5″ Square Grill Pan offers the best combination of performance, durability, and value. Its pre-seasoned surface is ready to use immediately, and the cast iron construction delivers restaurant-quality grill marks that improve with use.
How much should I spend on a grill pan?
Quality cast iron grill pans from Lodge cost $20-40 and last generations with proper care. Nonstick options run $20-50 and offer easier cleanup but shorter lifespans. Premium enameled cast iron from Le Creuset costs $150+ but eliminates seasoning requirements.
What features matter most when buying a grill pan?
Material is the primary consideration: cast iron delivers the best heat retention and sear marks but requires maintenance, while nonstick offers convenience at the expense of maximum temperature. Ridge height affects grill mark definition, and pour spouts make fat disposal easier.
What is the difference between cast iron and nonstick grill pans?
Cast iron grill pans achieve higher temperatures, creating better browning and more defined grill marks. They require seasoning maintenance but last indefinitely. Nonstick pans offer easier cleanup and lower maintenance but cannot reach the same temperatures and have limited lifespans.
Do I need to season a cast iron grill pan?
Most cast iron grill pans come pre-seasoned, but the seasoning improves with regular use and occasional maintenance. After cooking, clean with hot water (no soap), dry thoroughly, and apply a thin coat of oil. Proper seasoning creates an increasingly nonstick surface over time.
What grill pan do professional chefs use?
Professional chefs typically use cast iron or heavy-gauge carbon steel grill pans for their superior heat retention and ability to create proper Maillard browning. Lodge cast iron is popular in restaurant kitchens due to its durability and consistent performance.
Can I use a grill pan on an induction cooktop?
Cast iron and enameled cast iron grill pans work on induction cooktops. Check that nonstick pans specifically state induction compatibility, as many aluminum-based nonstick pans will not work on induction without a magnetic base.
How do I clean a cast iron grill pan?
Clean cast iron while still warm using hot water and a stiff brush or grill pan scraper that fits between the ridges. Avoid soap, which can strip seasoning. Dry thoroughly over low heat, then apply a thin coat of oil before storage.
Is a square or round grill pan better?
Square grill pans provide significantly more usable cooking surface than round pans of the same diameter, making them more practical for cooking multiple portions. The corners also provide convenient pour spouts for draining rendered fat.
Are expensive grill pans worth it?
Cast iron grill pans from Lodge offer excellent performance at $20-40 and last generations. Premium enameled options from Le Creuset ($150+) eliminate seasoning hassles and offer beautiful aesthetics but deliver similar cooking results. The value depends on whether convenience and appearance justify the premium.
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Verdict
The Lodge Cast Iron 10.5″ Square Grill Pan is the best grill pan for most people because it delivers professional-quality sear marks at an accessible price point. Made in the USA and pre-seasoned for immediate use, it provides decades of reliable performance with basic maintenance.
For budget buyers, the SENSARTE 9.5″ Nonstick Grill Pan offers easy cleanup and decent grill marks without the weight or maintenance of cast iron. And if you want premium enameled cast iron without seasoning hassles, the Le Creuset Signature Square Skillet Grill justifies its price with beautiful construction and effortless performance.
