9 Best Grill Cookwares of 2026

Unbeatable value meets authentic cast iron performance in the EWFEN Reversible Grill/Griddle — a rugged, no-frills workhorse that punches far above its price tag. With a dual-sided design featuring a ribbed grilling surface and a flat griddle plate, this pan delivers serious versatility for weeknight dinners or weekend campfire cookouts. Crafted from pure cast iron, it boasts excellent heat retention and even heating, creating that crave-worthy sear on steaks while staying responsive enough for delicate tasks like pancakes. Best of all, it arrives pre-seasoned, meaning you can start cooking immediately and build a naturally non-stick surface over time — ideal for anyone tired of flimsy nonstick pans that degrade after months of use.

In real-world testing, the EWFEN shines across multiple heat sources — gas stoves, ovens, and even open flames — proving its true all-surface durability. The 16.7” x 9.5” footprint covers two burners, giving ample room to grill chicken thighs on one side while frying eggs on the other, though its weight demands careful handling. On induction cooktops, it heats efficiently without hotspots, and the smooth bottom ensures it won’t scratch sensitive surfaces. That said, it struggles with rapid temperature changes, so avoid shocking it with cold water when blazing hot. While not dishwasher-safe (a must for cast iron), proper care — drying and oiling after use — keeps rust at bay and builds long-term performance.

When stacked against pricier competitors like the Lodge Pro-Grid, the EWFEN holds its own as the best budget-friendly reversible option without sacrificing core functionality. It lacks the American-made heritage or slightly larger cooking area of the Lodge, but for beginners or casual grillers who want cast iron benefits without the investment, this is a smart entry point. Compared to lightweight aluminum alternatives, it offers superior browning and longevity, making it a solid foundation for building kitchen confidence. For the price-conscious cook seeking maximum utility and authentic flavor, the EWFEN delivers where it counts — performance, durability, and versatility — all in one rugged pan.

Built like a tank and backed by legacy, the Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle stands as a benchmark in cast iron craftsmanship — delivering generational durability with every sizzle. This PFAS-free, pre-seasoned pan features a spacious 20-inch length, perfectly spanning two burners for family-sized meals, while its reversible design flips between a ridged grill for charred steaks and a smooth griddle for fluffy pancakes. Made in the USA from time-tested cast iron, it offers exceptional heat retention, ensuring consistent searing across the entire surface, whether you’re cooking indoors or over a campfire. For health-conscious families, the non-toxic, chemical-free seasoning provides peace of mind without compromising on flavor development.

During testing, the Lodge consistently outperformed smaller models in even heat distribution, especially on electric and induction stoves where thermal consistency matters most. Its extended cooking surface allowed us to sear four thick pork chops and a batch of hash browns simultaneously — a feat few reversible griddles can match. The pan transitions seamlessly from stovetop to oven or outdoor grill, handling temperatures up to 600°F with ease. However, its size and weight make it unwieldy for small kitchens or single users, and while the edges are smoothed, they can still scratch glass cooktops if slid instead of lifted.

Positioned between budget picks and premium carbon steel options, the Lodge Pro-Grid carves out its niche as the best value for serious home cooks who want reliability without the luxury markup. Compared to the EWFEN, it offers more cooking space and sturdier construction, though it comes at nearly 2.5x the cost. Against high-end brands like Made In, it lacks the refined finish and lighter handling, but delivers 90% of the performance at half the price. For those seeking a long-term kitchen investment that supports healthy, flavorful cooking across every season and setting, the Lodge Pro-Grid is a standout choice — especially for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who values American-made quality.

This isn’t just cookware — it’s culinary artillery designed for precision, power, and professional-grade results. The Made In Carbon Steel Griddle elevates the classic cast iron concept by using Swedish-crafted carbon steel, delivering the same legendary heat retention as cast iron but with faster heating, lighter weight, and superior responsiveness. Paired with a heavy-duty grill press, this set enables perfectly seared proteins with even crust development, whether you’re pressing smash burgers or grilling salmon fillets. With a 1200°F heat tolerance, it handles broiler blasts and open flames like a pro, making it a favorite among chefs who demand control and consistency.

In real-world performance, the griddle heats up noticeably faster than cast iron models, reducing preheat time by nearly 30%, and responds quickly to flame adjustments — a game-changer when cooking delicate items like scallops or thin-cut meats. The 19.6” x 10.5” cooking surface offers expansive room for batch cooking, and the smooth finish develops a mirror-like non-stick patina after just a few uses with proper oiling. Unlike heavier cast iron pans, it’s easier to maneuver, yet still delivers restaurant-quality grill marks and caramelization. The only caveat? It requires meticulous seasoning upkeep, and improper cleaning can lead to rust or sticking — not ideal for low-maintenance cooks.

When compared to the Lodge or EWFEN cast iron griddles, the Made In Carbon Steel Griddle represents the top-tier evolution of reversible cookware — trading some rugged simplicity for refined performance. It doesn’t come pre-seasoned, so there’s a learning curve, but the payoff is a lighter, more responsive pan that lasts decades. Against All-Clad’s nonstick grill, it offers better browning and higher heat tolerance, though without the convenience of dishwasher-safe cleanup. For the dedicated home chef or cooking enthusiast who wants pro-level tools without compromise, this set justifies its premium tag — not just as cookware, but as a long-term kitchen upgrade that performs like the best restaurant gear.

Where convenience meets performance, the All-Clad HA1 Nonstick Grill Pan is a dream for weekday warriors who want quick cleanup and consistent results without firing up the backyard grill. Its hard-anodized aluminum core delivers even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots that plague cheaper nonstick pans, while the PTFE-based nonstick coating ensures eggs slide off effortlessly and fish fillets stay intact. The raised ridges create attractive sear marks and elevate food to let fats drain away — a small but meaningful touch for healthier cooking. With a sleek design and riveted stainless steel handle, it feels sturdy in hand and looks at home on any stovetop.

In real-world use, this pan excels at delicate, low-heat tasks — think grilled cheese, salmon, or vegetable skewers — where sticking is a common issue. It heats up quickly on gas and electric ranges (though not induction), and its oven-safe to 500°F rating allows for finish-in-the-oven versatility. The square shape maximizes surface area in compact kitchens, and the low sides make flipping with tongs a breeze. However, it can’t handle high-heat searing like cast iron or carbon steel — crank it too high, and you risk degrading the nonstick surface over time. Also, while dishwasher-safe, hand washing is recommended to extend its lifespan.

Compared to cast iron or carbon steel options, the All-Clad HA1 trades raw power for practicality, making it ideal for apartment dwellers, small households, or anyone prioritizing easy maintenance over deep charring. Against the Made In griddle, it lacks high-temperature resilience and browning capability, but wins in cleanup speed and beginner-friendliness. For those who cook mostly indoors, avoid smoke-filled kitchens, and hate scrubbing, this pan strikes a rare balance: durable enough for daily use, slick enough for stress-free meals. It’s the smart choice for modern, fast-paced kitchens where performance and convenience aren’t mutually exclusive.

Say goodbye to falling shrimp and flipped fish fillets — the SHIZZO Grill Basket Set is a game-changer for small, slippery, or fragile foods that normally fight back on the grate. This stainless steel folding basket features a secure locking hinge and long heat-resistant handle, letting you flip entire meals with one confident motion. Whether you’re grilling zucchini slices, marinated tofu, or a dozen shrimp kebabs, the 12” x 9.5” grid ensures even contact and no loss through the grates. The set also includes skewers, a basting brush, and a portable case, turning it into a complete outdoor cooking kit perfect for camping, tailgating, or weekend BBQs.

In testing, the basket proved incredibly effective at preventing food waste, especially with unevenly shaped veggies or delicate proteins. The open-grid design allows smoke penetration and grill marks, so you don’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. It heats quickly, cleans easily in the dishwasher, and resists rust thanks to high-grade stainless steel. However, the handle can get hot during extended grilling, so using an oven mitt is recommended. Also, while the basket is spacious, overcrowding reduces airflow and browning, so proper spacing is key for best results.

When compared to flat griddles or solid pans, the SHIZZO fills a very specific but essential niche: maximizing control over small or fragile items. Unlike the Lodge or EWFEN, it doesn’t offer surface versatility, but it solves a unique pain point — food falling apart — that other cookware can’t. For Korean BBQ lovers, seafood fans, or veggie grillers, this set is worth its weight in perfectly grilled mushrooms. It’s not a primary pan, but an indispensable sidekick that enhances any grilling experience — especially when you’re feeding a crowd and can’t afford dropped morsels.

Compact, nimble, and surprisingly capable, the VEVOR Reversible Grill/Griddle is the lightweight champion of cast iron-style cooking — perfect for RVs, dorms, or small kitchens where space and strength matter. At just 14” long, it’s easier to lift and store than full-size griddles, yet still delivers the dual functionality of a ribbed grill and flat griddle. Made from pre-seasoned cast iron, it offers solid heat retention and a naturally developing non-stick surface, making it a great option for solo cooks or couples who want cast iron benefits without the back strain.

In real-world tests, the VEVOR heated evenly on gas and electric stoves, though it reached its limits on induction, where contact was slightly uneven due to its smaller base. The loop handles stay relatively cool with short cooking sessions, but prolonged use requires protection. It handled pancakes, bacon, and grilled chicken breasts with ease, though the smaller cooking area means batch cooking is necessary for larger meals. Like all cast iron, it requires hand drying and oiling to prevent rust — a small price for longevity.

Compared to the EWFEN and Lodge, the VEVOR sacrifices size and heft for portability and ease of use, making it ideal for campers, college students, or minimalist kitchens. It doesn’t offer the same searing power as the Lodge, nor the expansive surface of the EWFEN, but it’s one of the most manageable cast iron griddles for those with limited strength or storage. For anyone who wants real cast iron performance in a lighter package, the VEVOR hits the sweet spot — not the most powerful, but the most practical for on-the-go grilling.

Authentic Korean BBQ, reimagined for your kitchen, the Iwatani Aburi Grill Pan brings the smoky, sizzling experience of tabletop grilling straight to your stovetop — complete with a built-in water tray for steam-assisted cooking. This unique design allows you to grill meats like bulgogi or galbi while simultaneously steaming vegetables or rice, mimicking the traditional Korean setup without needing a specialized gas burner. The steel grill screens are removable and easy to clean, and the pan’s indentations fit securely on portable stoves, making it a favorite for indoor KBBQ nights.

In testing, the dual-layer system worked surprisingly well, keeping meats juicy while infusing subtle steam for tender results. The raised ridges created defined grill marks, and fat drained efficiently into the pan below, reducing flare-ups. It performed best on Iwatani’s own portable butane stoves, where heat was concentrated and consistent, but struggled slightly on standard electric coils due to uneven contact. The water tray needs frequent refilling, and the pan is not dishwasher-safe, requiring hand cleaning to preserve the steel screens.

Compared to flat griddles or reversible pans, the Iwatani is highly specialized — it won’t replace a cast iron skillet, but it excels at its specific mission: authentic Korean-style cooking. Against the SHIZZO basket, it offers more traditional grilling structure, though less versatility. For Korean food lovers, small households, or fans of interactive dining, this pan delivers an experience no other cookware can match. It’s not an everyday pan, but for weekly KBBQ nights, it’s the definitive choice — flavorful, functional, and culturally authentic.

Revolutionary for microwave cooking, this Microwave Grill Pan transforms your humble microwave into a multi-functional cooking station — capable of grilling, browning, and crisping without a stove or oven. Powered by patented Heatwave Technology, the pan absorbs microwave energy and reaches high surface temperatures, creating a crispy crust on chicken, bacon, or sandwiches in minutes. The non-stick interior and included silicone brush make oiling and cleanup effortless, while the glass lid locks in moisture for juicier results — a rare feat in microwave cookery.

In real-world use, it delivered remarkably crisp bacon and golden grilled cheese — far beyond what a standard microwave can achieve. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, RVs, or office kitchens where full cooking setups aren’t available. The large capacity handles family-sized portions, and the dishwasher-safe design saves time. However, results vary by microwave wattage, and high-fat foods can cause splattering, requiring careful monitoring. It also can’t replicate true flame grilling, but for speed and convenience, it’s unmatched.

Compared to stovetop griddles, it’s not a direct replacement, but for ultra-convenient, low-mess cooking, it outshines all. Against the All-Clad nonstick pan, it offers no stovetop use, but wins in portability and energy efficiency. For students, travelers, or anyone with limited kitchen access, this pan is a game-changing tool — turning microwave meals from sad to satisfying in minutes.

Engineered for deep char and serious flavor, the Nuwave Cast Iron Grill stands out with its aggressively deep ridges that funnel fat away from food, creating juicy, restaurant-style steaks with minimal grease. At 12.42” x 10.21”, it offers ample space for 4–6 burgers or thick-cut chops, and its pre-seasoned, non-stick surface ensures easy release right out of the box. The removable silicone handle covers stay cool to the touch, making it safer to handle than bare cast iron — a thoughtful upgrade for home cooks wary of burns.

In testing, the deep ridges produced dramatic grill marks and superior fat drainage, resulting in leaner, more flavorful meats. It performed flawlessly on gas stoves, grills, and even campfires, with excellent heat retention up to 800°F. The side walls help contain juices, reducing mess, and the surface cleaned with just a wipe — thanks to its robust seasoning. However, the handle design, while safe, feels bulkier than minimalist models, and the pan is heavier than average, making storage a challenge for small kitchens.

Compared to the EWFEN or VEVOR, the Nuwave prioritizes high-performance grilling over versatility, lacking a flat griddle side. Against the Lodge, it offers deeper searing capability and cooler handles, though less cooking width. For steak lovers and health-conscious grillers who want maximum char with minimum fat, this pan is unbeatable in its class — a specialty tool that delivers gourmet results with every use.