Imagine the perfect sear on a steak, the crispy edge of a breakfast potato, or the fluffy cloud of pancakes all cooked on one surface. That’s the magic a carbon steel griddle can bring to your kitchen. But with so many choices out there, picking the right one can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack. You want a griddle that cooks evenly, lasts for years, and doesn’t give you a headache trying to keep it clean.
Choosing a carbon steel griddle is a big decision for any home cook. It’s not just about buying a piece of metal; it’s about investing in delicious meals and enjoyable cooking experiences. This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explain what makes carbon steel so special and what to look for when you’re shopping.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what features matter most. You’ll feel confident about choosing a griddle that will become your go-to cooking companion. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to unlocking amazing flavors with your very own carbon steel griddle.
Our Top 5 Carbon Steel Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Carbon Steel Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Universal Large Carbon Steel Griddle for Outdoor Gas Grill
Rating: 9.5/10
This Universal Large Carbon Steel Griddle is a true kitchen workhorse. It can handle a wide variety of cooking tasks and heat sources, making it a versatile addition to any home or outdoor adventure.
What We Like:
- It works on almost any heat source: outdoor gas grills, induction cooktops, gas and electric stoves, and even in the oven.
- The carbon steel material is strong and heats up quickly and evenly. It’s also lighter than cast iron.
- It comes pre-seasoned with a safe nitride coating, meaning no harmful chemicals are released when it gets hot.
- The large cooking surface lets you cook many things at once.
- It includes a grill press, which helps you get a great sear on meats.
- The griddle is built to last for many years with proper care.
- There’s a 12-month warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Carbon steel needs to be dried and seasoned regularly to prevent rust and keep it non-stick. This requires a bit of upkeep.
This griddle offers incredible versatility and durability for all your cooking needs. With a little care, it will become a go-to tool in your kitchen.
2. Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle – (Like Cast Iron
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with the Made In Cookware Carbon Steel Griddle! This isn’t just any griddle; it’s a game-changer, blending the best qualities of cast iron and stainless steel. Imagine the amazing heat retention of cast iron with the speed and control of stainless steel – that’s what you get. It’s built tough, ready for anything from your kitchen stovetop to a backyard grill or even an open campfire. Chefs everywhere love it for creating perfect sears and developing a naturally non-stick surface over time. Plus, it’s made with pride by skilled craftspeople in Sweden, ensuring you get top-notch, professional-grade cookware.
What We Like:
- It’s a fantastic hybrid, offering the best heat retention of cast iron and the quick heating and control of stainless steel.
- This griddle is incredibly durable and can handle super high heat, meaning it will last for years.
- It’s super versatile – use it on the stove, grill, or even over an open flame. It works with induction cooktops too!
- Chefs love it because it gives food a beautiful sear and gets better with use, developing a non-stick finish.
- It’s expertly crafted in Sweden using premium materials for professional quality.
- The large cooking surface is perfect for making breakfast for the whole family or searing multiple items at once.
What Could Be Improved:
- Like other carbon steel cookware, it requires proper seasoning and maintenance to develop its non-stick properties and prevent rust.
- The griddle is quite large, so finding storage space might be a consideration for some.
This Made In Carbon Steel Griddle is a fantastic investment for any home cook looking for professional results. It’s a durable, versatile piece that will become a favorite in your kitchen.
3. Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle + Grill Press – (Like Cast Iron
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to cook like a pro with the Made In Cookware Carbon Steel Griddle and Grill Press set. This isn’t just any cookware; it’s designed to give you the best of both worlds. It combines the amazing heat-holding power of cast iron with the quick heating and lighter feel of stainless steel. Plus, it’s built tough and made with care in Sweden, ensuring it will last for years. This set is ready for any cooking adventure you throw at it!
What We Like:
- It heats up fast and holds its heat well, just like cast iron.
- It’s much lighter than cast iron, making it easier to handle.
- You can use it on your stove, the grill, or even over an open fire.
- It works on induction cooktops, which is super convenient.
- Chefs love it because it creates fantastic sears and gets better with use.
- It’s incredibly strong and can handle very high temperatures.
- It’s made with pride by skilled workers in Sweden.
What Could Be Improved:
- Like all carbon steel, it needs proper seasoning to prevent sticking and rust.
- The initial seasoning process might take a little time and effort.
This Made In Carbon Steel set offers professional quality for your kitchen. It’s a smart investment for anyone who loves to cook and wants reliable, high-performing cookware.
4. Carbon Steel Griddle Comes with Grill Press
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this versatile Carbon Steel Griddle! It’s designed to be your go-to cooking surface for almost any heat source, from your kitchen stove to an outdoor campfire. This griddle is built for serious cooking and comes with handy extras to make your experience even better.
What We Like:
- Premium Carbon Steel: It’s strong, durable, and lighter than cast iron, making it easy to handle.
- Cook Anywhere: Works perfectly on gas stoves, electric ranges, induction cooktops, in ovens, on campfires, and outdoor grills.
- Great Heat Performance: Heats up fast and cooks food evenly, even at very high temperatures (up to 1200°F!).
- Huge Cooking Space: The large surface (17.8″×8.7″) lets you cook lots of food at once, saving you time.
- Naturally Non-Stick: It’s pre-seasoned and nitrided, so it gets more non-stick over time without any harmful chemicals.
- Awesome Extras: Comes with heat-resistant gloves and a grill press for even more cooking power.
- Peace of Mind: The company offers great customer support and easy returns if it doesn’t fit your stove or if there are any issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- Maintenance Required: To keep its non-stick surface and durability, you need to store and maintain it properly.
This carbon steel griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen or outdoor cooking setup, offering excellent performance and great value. You’ll love the convenience and the delicious results it provides.
5. Lodge 18 Inch Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Griddle – Unparalleled Heat Retention – Use in the Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to transform your cooking with the Lodge 18 Inch Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Griddle. This griddle brings a professional touch to your kitchen, whether you’re cooking indoors or out. Its large surface area is perfect for feeding a crowd, and it’s built to handle high heat with ease.
What We Like:
- It’s your new go-to griddle for any cooking situation.
- The generous cooking surface fits lots of food, like steaks and shrimp.
- It’s lightweight and has dual handles, making it simple to move around.
- It comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil for a non-stick finish.
- The more you use it, the better the seasoning gets!
- The smooth carbon steel interior is great for sautéing and cooking fish.
- It heats up fast and cools down quickly, perfect for delicate foods.
- It works on ovens, gas stoves, grills, and even campfires.
- Lodge is a family-owned company that makes products in the USA.
- It’s made with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free materials.
What Could Be Improved:
- Hand washing is recommended to keep it in the best shape.
This Lodge griddle offers fantastic heat retention and cooking versatility. It’s a durable and reliable tool for any home cook.
Your Guide to a Terrific Carbon Steel Griddle
Why a Carbon Steel Griddle?
A carbon steel griddle is a fantastic kitchen tool. It’s great for cooking all sorts of foods. You can make pancakes, burgers, and even stir-fries. It heats up fast and cooks food evenly. This guide will help you choose the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Thickness of the Steel
A thicker griddle heats more evenly. It also holds heat better. Look for griddles that are at least 1/4 inch thick. Thinner griddles might get hot spots. This means some parts of your food cook faster than others.
2. Handle Design
Handles are important for safety. They should be sturdy and comfortable to hold. Some handles are welded on, while others are riveted. Welded handles are usually stronger. Make sure the handles don’t get too hot when you’re cooking.
3. Surface Area
Think about how much food you usually cook. If you cook for a big family, you’ll need a larger griddle. If you cook for one or two people, a smaller one will work fine. Griddles come in many sizes.
4. Seasoning
Most carbon steel griddles come pre-seasoned. Seasoning is a layer of oil baked onto the surface. This makes it non-stick. A good seasoning job is important. It prevents food from sticking and rust from forming.
Important Materials
The main material is, of course, carbon steel. This metal is strong and durable. It’s different from stainless steel. Carbon steel is pure iron with a little bit of carbon. This makes it great for high heat cooking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Griddle Great?
- Good Weight: A heavier griddle usually means thicker steel. This leads to better heat distribution.
- Smooth Surface: The surface should be smooth and even. This helps with cooking and cleaning.
- Proper Seasoning: A well-seasoned griddle is non-stick and rust-resistant.
What Can Make a Griddle Less Good?
- Thin Steel: Thin steel heats unevenly. This can lead to burnt food.
- Poorly Attached Handles: Loose or flimsy handles are a safety hazard.
- Rough Surface: A rough surface makes food stick and is harder to clean.
- Rust: Rust means the griddle wasn’t cared for properly or wasn’t seasoned well.
User Experience and Use Cases
Cooking Fun!
Using a carbon steel griddle is a joy. It cooks food beautifully. Burgers get a great sear. Pancakes cook evenly. You can even make smash burgers that are crispy and delicious. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Where Can You Use It?
- Stovetop: Most griddles work on gas or electric stovetops.
- Outdoor Grills: Some griddles are designed for outdoor grills.
- Campfires: With the right setup, you can even use them over a campfire.
Remember to clean and care for your griddle. This will keep it in great shape for years of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to clean a carbon steel griddle?
A: Clean it while it’s still warm. Use a spatula to scrape off food bits. Then, wipe it with a paper towel or a soft cloth. You can use a little bit of hot water if needed. Avoid using soap, as it can strip the seasoning.
Q: How do I re-season my griddle?
A: Wash it with warm water and soap. Dry it thoroughly. Rub a thin layer of cooking oil all over the surface. Heat the griddle on medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes until it starts to smoke. Let it cool and repeat a few times.
Q: Will my griddle rust?
A: Yes, carbon steel can rust if not cared for properly. Always dry it completely after cleaning. Apply a thin layer of oil after drying to protect it.
Q: Is carbon steel safe to cook on?
A: Yes, carbon steel is very safe. It’s a common material used for cookware and is non-toxic.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on a carbon steel griddle?
A: Yes, you can use metal utensils. Carbon steel is very durable and can handle metal spatulas and other tools.
Q: How long do carbon steel griddles last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a carbon steel griddle can last a lifetime. They are very durable.
Q: What’s the difference between a carbon steel griddle and a cast iron griddle?
A: Carbon steel heats up faster and is lighter than cast iron. Cast iron holds heat longer but takes more time to heat up.
Q: Can I put my carbon steel griddle in the dishwasher?
A: No, never put your carbon steel griddle in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents will remove the seasoning and cause rust.
Q: What kind of oil should I use for seasoning?
A: High smoke point oils work best. Good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or flaxseed oil.
Q: My food is sticking. What did I do wrong?
A: Your griddle might need more seasoning, or it wasn’t hot enough when you started cooking. Make sure the griddle is well-seasoned and preheated before adding food.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.