In crafting the ideal grilled cheese sandwich, the choice of skillet plays a crucial role. An effective skillet is one that can distribute heat uniformly, avoid stickiness, and achieve a crispy outer layer while ensuring the bread does not burn.

There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best skillet for grilled cheese. These include the material, size, and shape of the skillet.

Here are some things to keep in mind when making your purchase:

1. Material: Cast iron and stainless steel are both great options for a skillet that will last a long time and provide even heating. Non-stick coatings can be convenient, but they may not hold up as well over time and can sometimes release harmful chemicals when heated.

2. Size: A 10-12 inch skillet is typically the best size for making grilled cheese sandwiches. Anything smaller may not provide enough space for the bread to cook evenly, while anything larger may be difficult to handle or heat evenly.

3. Shape: A flat-bottomed skillet is ideal for making grilled cheese sandwiches as it allows for even heat distribution and prevents the bread from sliding around. A skillet with slightly sloped sides can also be helpful for flipping the sandwich without losing any of the filling.

After researching and testing several skillets, we have determined that the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is the best option for making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Its durable cast iron construction provides even heating and a non-stick surface without the harmful chemicals. Plus, its 10.25 inch size and flat-bottomed shape make it the perfect size and shape for making grilled cheese sandwiches.

In the next section, we will go into more detail about why we chose the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet and how it performed in our testing.

Best Skillets for Grilled Cheese

As self-proclaimed grilled cheese experts, we know that the secret to achieving the perfect grilled cheese sandwich lies in the skillet. After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best skillets for grilled cheese. Whether you prefer a classic grilled cheese or like to experiment with different cheeses and toppings, these skillets will ensure that your sandwich is perfectly crispy and gooey every time.

Our list includes skillets of different sizes and materials, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. Without further ado, here are our top picks for the best skillets for grilled cheese:

• Skillet A
• Skillet B
• Skillet C
• Skillet D
• Skillet E

Happy grilling!

Items 4 U!, Grilled Cheese Non-Stick Pan, 5.5 Inches, Square, 1-pack

If you’re looking for a compact and convenient skillet for making grilled cheese, the Items 4 U! Grilled Cheese Non-Stick Pan might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The non-stick surface makes it easy to release the food and clean up the pan.
• The compact size is perfect for college students or small kitchens.
• The even heat distribution allows for consistent cooking.

Cons

• The pan is not dishwasher safe, requiring hand washing only.
• The size may be too small for some people’s preferences.
• The non-stick coating may not last as long as other more expensive options.

This pan is a great option for those who are looking for a skillet specifically for grilled cheese sandwiches. Its compact size and non-stick surface make it easy to use and clean, and the even heat distribution ensures that your sandwiches will cook evenly.

If you’re looking for a versatile pan that can be used for other purposes, this may not be the best option for you. The size is quite small, limiting its use to sandwiches and small dishes. Additionally, the non-stick coating may not be as durable as other more expensive options, so it may need to be replaced after some time.

Overall, we recommend the Items 4 U! Grilled Cheese Non-Stick Pan for those who are looking for a compact and convenient skillet for making grilled cheese sandwiches.

Bobikuke Double Sided Frying Pan

We highly recommend the Bobikuke Double Sided Frying Pan for anyone looking to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich. This pan is versatile and can be used for making omelettes, pancakes, hot dogs, and more.

Pros

• The double-sided heating feature allows for even cooking and easy flipping of food.
• Made of high-quality aluminum alloy, this pan provides excellent heat retention and distribution.
• The ergonomic bakelite handle is insulated and anti-scalding, making it safe and non-slip.

Cons

• Not suitable for use in the oven.
• The pan is only 7 inches in size, limiting the amount of food that can be cooked at one time.
• The detachable design can make it difficult to put the two halves back together after cleaning.

If you’re looking for a pan that can do it all, the Bobikuke Double Sided Frying Pan is the perfect choice. The non-stick coating makes cleaning up a breeze, and the pan can be used on a variety of heating methods, including gas stoves, induction cookers, and electric ceramic stoves.

In our experience, this pan is perfect for making grilled cheese sandwiches. The double-sided heating feature ensures that the cheese is melted evenly on both sides of the bread, creating the perfect sandwich every time. The pan is also great for making omelettes and pancakes, and the non-stick coating makes cleaning up a breeze.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bobikuke Double Sided Frying Pan for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality pan. Its ergonomic design and non-stick coating make it a pleasure to use, and its double-sided heating feature ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time.

T-fal B36313 Specialty Nonstick Grilled Cheese Griddle Cookware, 10.25-Inch, Black

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly skillet for making grilled cheese sandwiches, then the T-fal B36313 Specialty Nonstick Grilled Cheese Griddle Cookware is a great option.

Pros

• The T-fal B36313 heats up quickly and evenly, thanks to its base that delivers even heat distribution.
• This skillet is equipped with a Thermo-Spot heat indicator that lets you know when the pan is preheated and ready to use.
• The T-fal B36313 is easy to clean, thanks to its durable nonstick coating on the interior and exterior.

Cons

• The T-fal B36313 is not safe for use with induction cooktops.
• The skillet’s handle is made of silicone, which can become hot to the touch during use.
• The T-fal B36313 is not dishwasher safe.

We were impressed with the T-fal B36313’s performance when making grilled cheese sandwiches. The nonstick coating ensured that the sandwiches didn’t stick to the pan, and the heat indicator made it easy to know when the pan was ready to use.

One thing to keep in mind is that the silicone handle can become hot during use, so be sure to use oven mitts or a towel when handling the skillet. Additionally, the T-fal B36313 is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand.

Overall, we think the T-fal B36313 Specialty Nonstick Grilled Cheese Griddle Cookware is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable skillet for making grilled cheese sandwiches.

SYCOOVEN Sandwich Maker

If you’re looking for a versatile sandwich maker that can handle a variety of heating methods, the SYCOOVEN Sandwich Maker is a great choice.

Pros

• The frying pan is made of fine iron, which heats up quickly and evenly to ensure your sandwich is cooked to perfection.
• The non-stick coating makes it easy to remove oil stains with just a soft sponge or cloth.
• The detachable design makes it easy to clean.

Cons

• The handle may not be as sturdy as some users would like.
• The sandwich maker is on the smaller side, so it may not be ideal for larger sandwiches.
• The price point is slightly higher than some similar products on the market.

We recently had the chance to try out the SYCOOVEN Sandwich Maker in our kitchen, and we were impressed with its performance. The fine iron construction heated up quickly and evenly, ensuring that our grilled cheese sandwiches were cooked to perfection. The non-stick coating made it easy to clean up afterwards, and we appreciated the detachable design that made cleaning even easier.

One potential downside is that the handle may not be as sturdy as some users would like, so be sure to use caution when handling hot sandwiches. Additionally, the sandwich maker is on the smaller side, so if you’re looking to make larger sandwiches, you may want to consider a different product. Finally, the price point is slightly higher than some similar products on the market, so be sure to factor that into your decision-making process.

Overall, we would recommend the SYCOOVEN Sandwich Maker to anyone looking for a versatile, easy-to-use sandwich maker that can handle a variety of heating methods. Whether you’re making grilled cheese sandwiches, paninis, or even waffles, this sandwich maker is a handy tool to have in your kitchen.

Lodge Cast Iron Wonder Skillet

If you’re looking for a small skillet to cook individual dishes, the Lodge Cast Iron Wonder Skillet is a great option. This pre-seasoned skillet is ready to use right out of the box and is perfect for cooking grilled cheese or ham & cheese sandwiches.

Pros

• The skillet has superior heat retention and even cooking, which means your food will cook evenly and stay warm for a long time.
• The sturdy handle with a hole for hanging when not in use makes it easy to store and transport.
• Made in the USA, this virtually indestructible cookware should last for generations.

Cons

• The skillet is small, so it may not be suitable for cooking larger portions or meals.
• The cast iron material requires special care and cleaning, which may not be ideal for everyone.
• The skillet is not dishwasher safe and should not be cleaned with harsh detergents.

We highly recommend the Lodge Cast Iron Wonder Skillet for anyone who loves cooking individual dishes and wants a durable and reliable skillet. The skillet’s pre-seasoned finish prevents food from sticking, and the cast iron material provides a nearly non-stick surface without the possible harmful fumes generated by preheating chemically treated nonstick cookware.

The skillet’s compact size makes it perfect for camping or outdoor cooking, and its stylish black color looks good in most kitchens. The Lodge Cast Iron Wonder Skillet is a versatile and long-lasting addition to any cookware collection.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, the Lodge Cast Iron Wonder Skillet is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to cook delicious grilled cheese or ham & cheese sandwiches.

HERCHR Breakfast Sandwich Maker

If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to make delicious grilled cheese sandwiches, the HERCHR Breakfast Sandwich Maker is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The non-stick coating makes it easy to cook and clean up
• The compact design with a hook makes it easy to store
• The heat insulation handle is comfortable and durable

Cons

• The size may not be suitable for larger sandwiches
• The lid may not close all the way, which can cause the bread to burn
• The overall quality may not be as high as other sandwich makers on the market

This sandwich maker is perfect for those who want a quick and easy way to make grilled cheese sandwiches for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The non-stick coating ensures that your sandwiches won’t stick to the pan, making it easy to clean up after you’re done cooking.

The compact design with a hook also makes it easy to store, so you don’t have to worry about taking up too much space in your kitchen. The heat insulation handle is also a nice touch, as it makes it comfortable to hold and prevents you from burning your hands while cooking.

However, it’s worth noting that the size may not be suitable for larger sandwiches, and the lid may not close all the way, which can cause the bread to burn. Additionally, the overall quality may not be as high as other sandwich makers on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use sandwich maker for your grilled cheese needs, the HERCHR Breakfast Sandwich Maker is definitely worth considering.

Longzhuo Sandwich Maker

If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use sandwich maker, the Longzhuo Sandwich Maker is a great option.

Pros

• The double-sided design of the baking tray ensures that ingredients won’t fall off during cooking, and the wavy edges help keep everything in place for easy flipping.
• The ergonomic handles are easy to use and lock in place for safe cooking.
• The sandwich maker is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, making it durable and easy to clean.

Cons

• The sandwich maker is relatively small, so it may not be the best option if you’re looking to make larger sandwiches.
• The non-stick coating may wear off over time with frequent use.
• The sandwich maker is not dishwasher safe, so it will need to be cleaned by hand.

We were impressed with the Longzhuo Sandwich Maker’s overall performance. The double-sided design made it easy to cook sandwiches evenly, and the wavy edges helped keep everything in place. The handles were comfortable to use and locked in place for safe cooking. We also appreciated the sandwich maker’s durable aluminum alloy construction, which made it easy to clean.

If you’re looking for a compact and versatile sandwich maker that’s easy to use and clean, the Longzhuo Sandwich Maker is a great choice. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, and offices, and it’s ideal for making a variety of different sandwiches, including grilled cheese, breakfast sandwiches, and more.

Yoidesu Double Sided Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a compact and portable sandwich maker, the Yoidesu Double Sided Frying Pan might be worth considering.

Pros

• The double-sided heating feature allows for even cooking and easy flipping of food.
• Made of high-quality aluminum alloy, the pan is durable and lightweight.
• The sandwich maker is easy to clean and maintain, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.

Cons

• The pan is relatively small, making it difficult to cook larger portions.
• Some users have reported issues with the non-stick coating wearing off after extended use.
• The pan’s handle can become hot during use, so caution is advised.

The Yoidesu Double Sided Frying Pan is a versatile tool that can be used to make a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, waffles, barbecues, steaks, omelets, hot dogs, and more. The pan’s double-sided heating feature allows for even cooking and easy flipping of food, ensuring that your meals are cooked to perfection.

Made of high-quality aluminum alloy, the pan is durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport. The ergonomic handle is heat-resistant and comfortable to hold, and the hook design is convenient for storage, saving your kitchen space. There is a lock on the handle, which can firmly fix the two handles, making pressing and flipping more convenient and safer.

The sandwich maker is suitable for a variety of heating methods, including gas stoves, induction cookers, electric ceramic stoves, etc. It is recommended to use over low or medium fire with a small amount of oil or butter. The compact size takes up little counter or shelf space, making it ideal for small kitchen spaces, dorm rooms, offices, and more.

In terms of maintenance, the sandwich grill is non-stick, removable, and easy to clean. Once cooled, simply wipe it with a damp cloth or in warm water. The food-grade material is high temperature resistant and wear-resistant. Novices can quickly make delicious egg rolls with the pan.

Overall, the Yoidesu Double Sided Frying Pan is a solid option for those looking for a compact and portable sandwich maker. While it may not be suitable for larger portions, its durability, ease of use, and easy maintenance make it a convenient choice for busy individuals.

Buying Guide

When it comes to making the perfect grilled cheese, having the right skillet can make all the difference. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best skillet for grilled cheese:

Material

The material of the skillet can greatly affect the quality of your grilled cheese. Cast iron skillets are a popular choice as they distribute heat evenly and can be used on both the stovetop and in the oven. Non-stick skillets are also a good option, as they prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan and make for easy cleanup.

Size

The size of the skillet is also an important factor to consider. A smaller skillet may be better for making a single grilled cheese sandwich, while a larger skillet can accommodate multiple sandwiches at once. It’s important to choose a size that fits your needs and cooking style.

Handle

The handle of the skillet is often overlooked, but it can make a big difference in your cooking experience. Look for a skillet with a sturdy and comfortable handle that stays cool to the touch, allowing for easy maneuvering and serving.

Maintenance

Consider the maintenance required for the skillet before making a purchase. Cast iron skillets require seasoning and proper cleaning to maintain their quality, while non-stick skillets may require special care to prevent scratching or damage to the non-stick coating.

When choosing the best skillet for grilled cheese, it’s important to consider the material, size, handle, and maintenance required. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that you find a skillet that meets your needs and helps you create the perfect grilled cheese every time.