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Cast iron pans are essential in numerous kitchen setups, however, are you aware that they’re equally great for outdoor grilling? Whether it’s for camping, tailgating, or if outdoor cooking is more your style, incorporating a cast iron pan can greatly enhance your grilling experience. This article will explore the top cast iron pan options for outdoor grilling, making it a valuable asset for your outdoor cooking.
When it comes to choosing a cast iron skillet for outdoor grilling, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure the skillet is durable and can withstand high temperatures. You’ll also want to consider the size of the skillet, as well as any additional features that may be useful for outdoor cooking.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind when shopping for a cast iron skillet for outdoor grilling:
- Durability: Look for a skillet that is made from high-quality cast iron and is designed to withstand high temperatures. Some skillets may also be coated with enamel or other materials to help protect against rust and corrosion.
- Size: Consider the size of the skillet and whether it will fit on your grill. A smaller skillet may be more portable and easier to handle, while a larger skillet may be better for cooking for a crowd.
- Features: Some cast iron skillets may come with additional features, such as a lid or a handle that can be removed for easier storage. Think about what features would be most useful for your outdoor cooking needs.
After researching and testing various cast iron skillets, we’ve identified the top options for outdoor grilling. Whether you’re cooking up burgers, veggies, or even desserts, these skillets will help you achieve delicious results on your grill.
Best Cast Iron Skillets for Outdoor Grill
As outdoor grilling season approaches, we know that having the right tools is crucial for a successful cookout. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best cast iron skillets for outdoor grilling. Whether you’re searing steaks, cooking vegetables, or making a hearty breakfast, these skillets will help you achieve the perfect char and flavor. So, without further ado, here are our top picks:
- Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
- Victoria Cast Iron Skillet
- Camp Chef Cast Iron Skillet
- Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet Set
- AmazonBasics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan
If you’re looking for a cast iron skillet that can be used for both indoor and outdoor grilling, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is worth considering. This pre-seasoned skillet has a 12-inch diameter and is suitable for evenly cooking a variety of different meals.
Pros
- The skillet’s cast iron construction provides superior heat retention, keeping your food warm for a long time.
- Cooking food in a cast iron skillet can increase iron content by as much as 20%, making it a great choice for those with iron deficiency.
- The skillet is versatile and can be used for both stovetop and oven cooking.
Cons
- The skillet is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to handle for some users.
- The skillet is not dishwasher-safe and requires hand washing and immediate drying after use.
- The skillet’s rough surface may be less smooth than non-stick cookware.
In our experience, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a reliable and durable cast iron skillet that is perfect for outdoor grilling. Its pre-seasoned surface ensures that food doesn’t stick, and the skillet’s large size makes it ideal for cooking meals for a group. However, the skillet’s weight may be a concern for some users, and its rough surface may not be as smooth as non-stick cookware.
If you’re looking for a cast iron skillet that can be used for both indoor and outdoor grilling, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a solid choice. Its superior heat retention and ability to increase iron content in food make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor cooking game.
NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate
If you’re looking for a versatile cast iron skillet for outdoor grilling, the NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate is a great option.
Pros
- The reversible sides make it easy to switch between a smooth surface for making pancakes and eggs, and a ribbed surface for grilling meats and vegetables.
- The cast iron material ensures even heat distribution and retention, resulting in perfectly cooked food.
- The extra-wide skillet size is perfect for cooking large meals and the stain-resistant surface makes it easy to clean.
Cons
- The skillet is heavy, which may make it difficult to handle for some users.
- The included silicone oven grab mitt may not provide sufficient protection for high-temperature cooking.
- The skillet may require some seasoning before use to prevent sticking.
We recently tried out this grill plate and were impressed with its performance. The reversible sides allowed us to easily switch between cooking pancakes and grilling burgers, resulting in delicious meals with beautiful grill marks. The cast iron material ensured even heat distribution and retention, resulting in perfectly cooked food every time.
One thing to note is that the skillet is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to handle for some users. Additionally, the included silicone oven grab mitt may not provide sufficient protection for high-temperature cooking, so we recommend using additional protection when handling the skillet. Finally, the skillet may require some seasoning before use to prevent sticking, but once properly seasoned, it’s easy to clean and maintain.
Overall, we highly recommend the NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality cast iron skillet for outdoor grilling.
Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan + Glass Lid
If you’re looking for a versatile cast iron skillet that can be used both indoors and outdoors, the Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan + Glass Lid might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The pan is pre-seasoned and ready to use out of the box.
- The glass lid allows you to check on your food without losing heat or moisture.
- The pan is compatible with grills, stovetops, and induction cooktops.
Cons
- The ridges on the pan can be difficult to clean.
- The pan is heavy, which can make it difficult to handle.
- The pan is not dishwasher safe.
We recently had the chance to try out the Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan + Glass Lid, and we were impressed with its performance. The pan heated up quickly and evenly, and the ridges provided a nice sear on our food. We also appreciated the glass lid, which allowed us to keep an eye on our food without having to remove the lid and lose heat.
One thing to keep in mind is that the ridges on the pan can be a bit difficult to clean. We found that using a stiff-bristled brush and some elbow grease did the trick, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a low-maintenance pan.
Overall, we think the Cuisinel Cast Iron Square Grill Pan + Glass Lid is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile cast iron skillet that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Just be prepared for a bit of extra weight and some extra cleaning effort.
Cuisinel Cast Iron Griddle/Grill + Scraper/Cleaner
If you’re looking for a versatile cast iron skillet that can be used both indoors and outdoors, the Cuisinel Cast Iron Griddle/Grill + Scraper/Cleaner is a great choice. With even-heat technology, drip drain, and precision heat distribution, this skillet is perfect for searing and grilling. The large cooking surfaces allow you to cook multiple items at once, making it perfect for large meals. Plus, it comes with two scrapers for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Even-heat technology ensures consistent results
- Drip drain removes extra fat for healthier cooking
- Large cooking surfaces can accommodate multiple items at once
Cons
- Requires hand washing and seasoning after each use
- May be heavy and difficult to handle for some users
- Scraper/cleaner may not be as effective as other cleaning tools
We recently used the Cuisinel Cast Iron Griddle/Grill + Scraper/Cleaner to cook a variety of foods both indoors and outdoors. The skillet heated evenly and quickly, allowing us to achieve the perfect sear on our steaks and burgers. The drip drain was a great feature, as it removed excess fat for healthier cooking. We also appreciated the large cooking surfaces, which allowed us to cook multiple items at once.
However, we did find that the skillet was quite heavy and difficult to handle for some users. Additionally, the scraper/cleaner that came with the skillet was not as effective as other cleaning tools we’ve used in the past. Overall, we would recommend the Cuisinel Cast Iron Griddle/Grill + Scraper/Cleaner to anyone looking for a versatile cast iron skillet that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Just be prepared to put in a little extra effort when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.
NutriChef Reversible Plate
If you’re in the market for a versatile cast iron skillet to use on your outdoor grill, the NutriChef Reversible Plate is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The reversible sides allow for two different cooking surfaces, making it easy to cook a variety of foods.
- The cast iron metal ensures even heat distribution and retention for perfectly cooked meals.
- The ridged line surface helps to keep excess oil away from food, making it a healthier cooking option.
Cons
- The skillet is quite heavy, making it difficult to handle for some users.
- The non-stick surface may wear off over time with frequent use.
- The skillet is not dishwasher safe and requires some effort to clean.
We recently tried out the NutriChef Reversible Plate on our outdoor grill and were impressed with its versatility. The smooth side was perfect for cooking up breakfast foods like pancakes and eggs, while the ribbed side was great for grilling up meats and vegetables.
One of the standout features of this skillet is its cast iron construction. We found that it heated up quickly and evenly, ensuring that our meals were cooked to perfection. The ridged line surface also helped to keep excess oil away from our food, which was a nice bonus for those looking to cook healthier meals.
However, we did find that the skillet was quite heavy, which made it difficult to handle at times. Additionally, the non-stick surface may wear off over time with frequent use, so it’s important to take care when cleaning the skillet. Speaking of cleaning, the skillet is not dishwasher safe and requires some effort to clean, which may be a downside for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the NutriChef Reversible Plate to anyone looking for a versatile cast iron skillet to use on their outdoor grill. Its reversible sides and cast iron construction make it a great option for cooking up a variety of foods, and its ridged line surface helps to make meals healthier.
Camp Chef Reversible Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Griddle, Cooking Surface 16″ x 24″ 1 Count (Pack of 1) Cast iron grill
If you want to take your outdoor cooking to the next level, the Camp Chef Reversible Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Griddle is a must-have. With its double-sided grill/griddle combo, you can cook up a delicious breakfast, then flip it over and grill dinner. It’s out of the box ready to cook in seconds, and the molded-on handles make it easy to move around.
Pros
- The true seasoned finish cast iron grill/griddle holds the heat and sears the meat to cook better.
- The cast iron grilling ridges allow you to grill like on a BBQ.
- It fits all Camp Chef 16″ stoves.
Cons
- It is heavy, weighing in at 14 lbs.
- It requires careful cleaning and seasoning to maintain its non-stick surface.
- It does not have a way to drain grease while cooking.
This cast iron griddle is a game-changer for outdoor cooking. The true seasoned finish ensures that your food cooks evenly and tastes great, while the cast iron grilling ridges give you that BBQ flavor. It’s perfect for cooking up pancakes, bacon, and eggs for breakfast, and then flipping over to grill burgers, steak, and veggies for dinner.
We love that it fits all Camp Chef 16″ stoves, making it easy to use with your existing equipment. And the molded-on handles make it easy to move around, even when it’s hot. However, it is heavy, so be prepared to use some muscle when moving it around.
One thing to keep in mind is that cast iron requires careful cleaning and seasoning to maintain its non-stick surface. But with proper care, this griddle will last for years and become a staple in your outdoor cooking arsenal.
Overall, if you’re looking to up your outdoor cooking game, the Camp Chef Reversible Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Griddle is a great investment. It’s versatile, durable, and produces delicious results every time.
Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillets Set
We highly recommend the Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillets Set for anyone looking for a versatile and durable cookware set that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Pros
- The set includes two skillets of different sizes, making it perfect for cooking different dishes.
- The skillets are made with seasoned cast iron that provides even heat distribution for improved cooking and frying on any cooking surface.
- The set comes with two hot handle holders that are non-slip and heat-resistant, ensuring your safety while cooking or serving food.
Cons
- The skillets are heavy, which might be a problem for some users.
- The skillets require seasoning before the first use, which might be a hassle for some users.
- The skillets are not dishwasher safe and require hand washing, which might be inconvenient for some users.
The Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillets Set is a great investment for anyone who loves cooking. The skillets are versatile and can be used for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing meats, vegetables, and more. The set includes a 10-inch pan and a 12-inch pan, making it perfect for cooking different dishes.
The skillets are made with seasoned cast iron that lasts through years of regular cooking and washing. The cast iron provides even heat distribution for improved cooking and frying on any cooking surface. The skillets are also oven safe, making them perfect for baking dishes that require high temperatures.
The set comes with two hot handle holders that are non-slip and heat-resistant, ensuring your safety while cooking or serving food. The handle holders are made with silicone and fit perfectly on the skillets’ handles, providing a comfortable grip while cooking.
However, the skillets are heavy, which might be a problem for some users. The skillets require seasoning before the first use, which might be a hassle for some users. Also, the skillets are not dishwasher safe and require hand washing, which might be inconvenient for some users.
In conclusion, the Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillets Set is a great investment for anyone who loves cooking. The skillets are versatile, durable, and provide even heat distribution, making them perfect for cooking different dishes both indoors and outdoors.
Everdure Oval Cast Iron Grill & Cover
If you’re looking for a compact, portable, and versatile outdoor grill, the Everdure Oval Cast Iron Grill & Cover is worth considering. We recommend this grill for its durable construction, portability, and excellent heat retention.
Pros
- The grill is made of 100% cast iron material and finished with a scratch-resistant enamel coating, making it sturdy and durable.
- The built-in carrying handles make it easy to transport, making it perfect for camping, picnics, and tailgating.
- The grill retains heat well, thanks to the cast iron material, allowing for efficient and versatile cooking.
Cons
- The grill does not have a lid, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer to cook with a closed grill.
- The grill is relatively small, with a cooking surface of only 180 square inches, making it suitable for small groups or individuals.
- The grill is powered by charcoal, which may not be as convenient as gas or electric grills for some users.
The Everdure Oval Cast Iron Grill & Cover is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact and portable outdoor grill that is built to last. The grill is made of 100% cast iron material, making it sturdy and durable, and the scratch-resistant enamel coating ensures that it will be able to handle high heat and last for years to come.
The built-in carrying handles make it easy to transport, and the grill is small enough to take with you on camping trips, picnics, and tailgating. The grill also retains heat well, thanks to the cast iron material, making it a versatile and efficient cooktop, especially for long cook times.
While the grill does not have a lid, it is still a great option for those who prefer to cook with an open grill. The cooking surface is relatively small, making it suitable for small groups or individuals, but it is still large enough to cook a variety of foods, including meat, vegetables, seafood, and potatoes.
Overall, we highly recommend the Everdure Oval Cast Iron Grill & Cover for anyone looking for a durable, portable, and versatile outdoor grill. It is an excellent choice for those who enjoy authentic charcoal cooking and want a premium grilling experience in an all-in-one unit.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best cast iron skillet for outdoor grilling, there are a few key features to consider. We want to make sure you get the most out of your purchase, so we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Material
First and foremost, it’s important to consider the material of the skillet. Cast iron is a popular choice for outdoor grilling due to its durability and ability to retain heat. However, not all cast iron skillets are created equal. Look for skillets made from high-quality cast iron that is thick and evenly distributes heat.
Size
The size of the skillet is another important factor to consider. You want to make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate your grilling needs, but not so large that it becomes difficult to handle. Consider the size of your grill and the types of foods you’ll be cooking to determine the best size for your needs.
Shape
The shape of the skillet can also impact its performance on the grill. Look for skillets with a flat bottom and slightly curved sides to allow for easy flipping and tossing of food. A skillet with a long handle and a helper handle can also make it easier to maneuver on the grill.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your cast iron skillet. Look for skillets that are pre-seasoned or easy to season yourself. Regular seasoning and cleaning can help prevent rust and keep your skillet in top condition.
In summary, when choosing a cast iron skillet for outdoor grilling, consider the material, size, shape, and maintenance requirements. By taking these factors into account, you can find a skillet that will provide years of delicious meals on the grill.
- Consider the material of the skillet
- Look for skillets made from high-quality cast iron that is thick and evenly distributes heat
- Consider the size of the skillet
- Look for skillets with a flat bottom and slightly curved sides
- Look for a skillet with a long handle and a helper handle
- Consider the maintenance requirements
- Look for skillets that are pre-seasoned or easy to season yourself.