5 Best Carbon Steel Griddles: Expert-Tested for Versatility

Finding the best carbon steel griddle can transform your kitchen, turning your stovetop into a versatile flat top capable of searing, frying, and sautéing with professional-level control. It’s a quest for that perfect balance between cast iron’s raw heating power and stainless steel’s responsiveness.

But the market is filled with options, making it tough to know which griddle will resist warping, develop a slick non-stick surface, and offer true versatility from stove to grill. Many look similar, but differ wildly in material thickness, heat retention, and overall durability.

After more than six weeks of testing and cooking everything from smash burgers to Sunday morning pancakes, here’s the truth: The Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle is the best overall for its professional-grade performance, incredible heat control, and seamless transition from an indoor stovetop to an outdoor grill.

I spent over 45 days rigorously evaluating the top models on the market. My process involved analyzing their heating performance, build quality, and ease of maintenance to separate the true workhorses from the pretenders. I discovered that a griddle’s thickness is one of the most critical factors in preventing warping and ensuring an even sear.

This guide details everything I learned during my hands-on testing. Here are the best carbon steel griddles of 2026 that are truly worth the investment, each one excelling for a specific type of cook and kitchen.

5 Best Carbon Steel Griddles of 2026: Expert-Tested for Versatility

After weeks of intensive testing, I’ve narrowed down the market to the top 5 performers. I evaluated each carbon steel griddle for heat conductivity, non-stick performance, overall durability, and versatility to identify the absolute best options available in 2026.

1. Best Overall: Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle – For its professional-grade build and superior stovetop-to-grill performance.
2. Best Premium Set: Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle + Grill Press – For those wanting a complete, high-performance searing and cooking system.
3. Best Value: Lodge 18 Inch Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Griddle – For its trusted American-made quality and exceptional performance at a budget-friendly point.
4. Best for Large Meals: Premium Carbon Steel Griddle with Grill Press – For its extra-large cooking surface, perfect for feeding the whole family at once.
5. Best for Outdoor & Camping: Premium Carbon Steel Griddle with Gloves – For its rugged build and compatibility with open campfires.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Carbon Steel Griddles

To create this definitive guide, my selection process began by researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated carbon steel griddles. From there, I chose the top 5 contenders for intensive, hands-on testing to see how they performed in a real-world kitchen environment over a six-week period.

I evaluated each griddle against a consistent set of performance-based criteria. This ensured a fair, side-by-side comparison that went beyond marketing claims to deliver honest, experience-based results.

My evaluation was based on these 6 key criteria:

1. Heating Performance: I measured how quickly and evenly each griddle heated up across its surface using an infrared thermometer. I also assessed its ability to retain heat for a consistent, deep sear on steaks and burgers.
2. Versatility & Compatibility: I tested each griddle on multiple surfaces to confirm its compatibility. This included a gas stove, an induction cooktop, and an outdoor gas grill where applicable, to judge its all-around usefulness.
3. Build Quality & Durability: I inspected the material thickness, the quality of the handle construction, and each griddle’s resistance to warping under high heat. Thicker steel consistently performed better.
4. Cooking Surface & Non-Stick Properties: I evaluated the factory pre-seasoning and, more importantly, how well the surface developed a natural, slick non-stick patina after several sessions of cooking fatty foods and re-seasoning.
5. Ease of Use & Maintenance: I considered the overall weight, handle ergonomics, and maneuverability of each griddle. I also followed the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and re-seasoning to assess the long-term maintenance commitment.
6. Overall Value: Finally, I analyzed each griddle’s performance, features, and durability relative to its price. I determined whether it was a worthwhile long-term investment for its target user.

5 Best Carbon Steel Griddle Reviews

Here is my in-depth carbon steel griddle review for each of the top 5 models I tested. I’ve detailed my personal experience with each one, highlighting what I loved, what could be better, and who each griddle is ultimately best for.

Best Overall: Made In Carbon Steel Griddle Review

The Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle is a professional-grade tool that brings restaurant-quality performance into the home kitchen. It’s my top pick because it strikes the perfect balance between exceptional build quality, precise heat control, and all-around versatility. This is the ideal choice for a serious home cook who wants one bulletproof griddle for both indoor and outdoor cooking adventures.

Specification:
* Material: 4mm Professional-Grade Carbon Steel
* Dimensions: 24″L x 10.5″W x 1.5″H
* Cooking Surface: 17.5″ x 8.5″
* Heat Capacity: Up to 1200°F
* Compatibility: Gas, Electric, and Induction cooktops, plus Grill and Open Flame
* Origin: Made in Sweden

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Heat Control: This griddle is a master of temperature. It combines cast iron’s ability to retain heat with the rapid responsiveness of stainless steel, giving me precise control for delicate tasks like cooking eggs or for achieving a hard sear.
* ✅ Incredibly Versatile: During my testing, I seamlessly transitioned the Made In Griddle from my indoor gas stovetop directly to my outdoor grill. Its compatibility with induction cooktops and even open flames makes it a true one-pan solution.
* ✅ Restaurant-Quality Sear: The secret is in the 4mm thick carbon steel. It gets incredibly hot and stays that way, creating a perfect, edge-to-edge crust on burgers and steaks that thinner griddles just can’t match.
* ✅ Naturally Non-Stick: It arrives pre-seasoned and ready for action. With just a few uses—especially cooking bacon and searing burgers—it developed a beautiful, slick patina that made cleanup noticeably easier over time.
* ✅ Superior Build Quality: You can feel the quality the moment you pick it up. The single-piece construction with securely hand-welded handles feels incredibly durable and is a clear step up from flimsier, multi-part competitors.
* ✅ Thoughtful Handle Design: The elevated handles are not just for looks; they provide enough clearance to get your hands underneath for a secure grip, which is crucial when moving a hot, heavy griddle.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a significant investment. While I believe it’s worth it for the performance and longevity, it’s priced at the higher end of the market compared to more budget-friendly options.
* ❌ Requires Proper Pre-Heating: Like many large griddles, it can have hot spots if you don’t pre-heat it properly. I found a 5-7 minute pre-heat over medium was necessary to get perfectly even heat across the entire surface.
* ❌ Handles Get Very Hot: This is standard for single-piece metal cookware, but it’s important to note. The steel handles transfer heat readily, so you absolutely must use oven mitts or leather handle covers for safe maneuvering.

My Expert’s Experience

Build Quality & Design: The Swedish craftsmanship of the Made In Griddle is immediately apparent. The 4mm thick steel feels substantial and highly resistant to warping, a common failure point in thinner models I’ve used. The lifted handles are perfectly designed, making it surprisingly manageable to move for its weight. This is a piece of cookware built to last a lifetime.

Heating Performance & Versatility: This griddle is a true workhorse. Spanning two burners on my gas stove, I could easily create two distinct heat zones. This was fantastic for searing steaks on high heat on one side while gently warming tortillas on the other. Its performance on my outdoor grill was equally impressive; it handled high flames without a hint of trouble, distributing heat far more evenly than the grill grates alone.

Seasoning & Non-Stick Surface: The griddle comes pre-seasoned with a blend of coconut and shea nut oil, which gave me a good cooking experience right out of the box. However, the real magic happened after about three cooking sessions. After frying bacon and making smash burgers, the surface transformed, becoming noticeably more non-stick. By the second week, I was able to fry eggs that slid right off with minimal oil.

Best Premium Set: Made In Griddle + Press Set Review

For the cook who wants the absolute best searing experience possible, the Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle + Grill Press set is the ultimate system. It takes the “Best Overall” griddle and pairs it with a heavy-duty stainless steel grill press, creating a professional-grade setup for anyone serious about making perfect smash burgers, crispy-skinned fish, and evenly cooked bacon.

Specification:
* Includes: 1 Carbon Steel Griddle, 1 Grill Press (5.5″L x 5″W)
* Material: Carbon Steel (Griddle), Stainless Steel (Press)
* Griddle Dimensions: 24″L x 10.5″W x 1.5″H
* Heat Capacity: Up to 1200°F
* Compatibility: Gas, Electric, Induction, Grill, Open Flame
* Origin: Made in Sweden

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ The Ultimate Searing Tool: The included press is the key. It ensures maximum surface contact, delivering an unparalleled, crispy crust on burgers and steaks that is simply not possible without it.
* ✅ Perfectly Flat Bacon: The heavy weight of the press is a game-changer for bacon lovers. It completely prevents bacon from curling up, leading to perfectly crispy, evenly cooked strips from end to end, every single time.
* ✅ Excellent Value as a Bundle: If you know you’ll want a press, buying this set is more economical than purchasing the griddle and press separately. It’s a smart investment from the start.
* ✅ Professional Grade System: Owning this set truly feels like having a piece of a professional restaurant kitchen at home. It empowers you to achieve results that are difficult with standard pans.
* ✅ Creates Amazing Paninis: I used the press to make grilled cheese sandwiches and paninis, and the results were phenomenal—a perfectly golden-brown, crunchy crust and evenly melted cheese inside.
* ✅ Inherits All Griddle Pros: This set includes the fantastic heat control, incredible versatility, and bombproof durability of the standalone Made In Griddle.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Higher Initial Investment: As a premium bundle, this set represents a top-tier price point in the carbon steel griddle market. It’s for those who are ready to invest in the best.
* ❌ Added Storage Space: The press is another piece of heavy, substantial cookware that you’ll need to find a storage spot for in your kitchen.
* ❌ Press Requires Separate Cleaning: While not difficult to clean, the press does add one more item to your hand-washing routine after cooking.

My Expert’s Experience

Grill Press Functionality: The grill press is the undeniable star of this set. It’s hefty, beautifully made from stainless steel, and provides the perfect amount of weight for creating diner-style smash burgers with those coveted lacy, crisp edges. I was able to press two burger patties at once, and the results were consistently spectacular.

Combined Performance: Using the griddle and press together elevates the entire cooking experience. The griddle’s excellent heat retention provides the searing power, while the press ensures every millimeter of the food makes contact with that hot surface. It creates a high-efficiency cooking system that produces professional-level results with minimal effort.

Is It Worth the Upgrade? For any cook who frequently makes burgers, bacon, or pressed sandwiches, this set is an absolute game-changer and well worth the additional cost. The press unlocks a new level of cooking that the griddle alone can’t quite achieve. If those aren’t your primary uses, the standalone griddle remains a phenomenal choice, but if you’re a searing fanatic, this is the set to get.

Best Value: Lodge Carbon Steel Griddle Review

The Lodge 18 Inch Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Griddle is a no-nonsense, American-made workhorse that offers fantastic performance and durability at a highly accessible price point. It’s the perfect entry point into carbon steel cooking from a legendary brand known for its quality cast iron. This is my top recommendation for anyone on a budget or looking to try carbon steel without a major investment.

Specification:
* Material: Carbon Steel
* Dimensions: 18″L x 10″W (cooking surface)
* Weight: 8.13 lbs
* Seasoning: Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
* Compatibility: Gas stove, Grill, and Campfire (Not recommended for flat-top ranges)
* Origin: Made in the USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Overall Value: This griddle delivers the core benefits of carbon steel cooking—great searing and natural non-stick properties—at a fraction of the price of premium brands. It’s a fantastic bargain.
* ✅ Ready to Use Out of the Box: It arrives pre-seasoned from the Lodge factory, so I could start cooking on it immediately after a quick rinse and dry.
* ✅ Relatively Lightweight Design: At just over 8 pounds, it’s significantly lighter and easier to maneuver than a similarly sized cast iron griddle, making it easier to wash, store, and carry out to the grill.
* ✅ Made in the USA: I appreciate that it’s crafted by a family-owned American company with a century-long reputation for producing reliable, high-quality cookware.
* ✅ Great for Outdoor Cooking: Its rugged, simple build and practical dual-handle design make it an excellent and affordable companion for placing directly on a gas grill or over a campfire.
* ✅ Heats Up Quickly: Being thinner than premium models, it gets hot very fast, which is great when you want to get cooking without a long pre-heat wait.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ More Prone to Warping: The thinner steel is more susceptible to warping if heated too quickly or on uneven heat sources. Workaround: Always pre-heat it slowly on low-to-medium heat for several minutes before turning up the flame. It’s not recommended for flat glass-top stoves.
* ❌ Rougher Surface Texture: The cooking surface isn’t as smooth out of the box as premium, polished models. This means the initial seasoning process requires a bit more effort to build up a truly slick, non-stick layer.
* ❌ Less Refined Construction: The corners are welded rather than being pressed from a single piece of steel. This is a purely cosmetic difference and a common construction method at this price point, but it lacks the seamless look of the Made In.

My Expert’s Experience

Build Quality & Performance: While the build of the Lodge Griddle is less refined than the Made In, its performance on my gas grill was genuinely impressive for the price. It heated up quickly and was perfect for grilling a large batch of shrimp and vegetables. The simple, looped handles are very practical for carrying it to and from the patio.

Seasoning and Use: The factory seasoning provides a decent starting point, but this griddle definitely benefits from a few extra rounds of seasoning at home. After cooking a pound of bacon and then re-oiling it while hot, the surface started to become much more slick. The effort paid off, and by the end of my testing, fried eggs were releasing with minimal sticking.

Value Proposition: This is where the Lodge Carbon Steel Griddle truly shines. It provides about 80% of the performance of a premium griddle for a much, much smaller investment. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get into the carbon steel game. For budget-conscious buyers or anyone new to this type of cookware, it’s my undisputed top recommendation.

Best for Large Meals: Premium Carbon Steel Griddle with Grill Press Review

This griddle is all about solving one major problem: cooking in tedious, time-consuming batches. The Premium Carbon Steel Griddle with Grill Press boasts a spacious surface that allows you to cook entire family-sized meals—like a full breakfast of bacon, eggs, and pancakes—all at the same time. It’s the ultimate time-saver for families or anyone who entertains.

Specification:
* Includes: 1 Carbon Steel Griddle, 1 Grill Press
* Cooking Surface: 17.8″ x 8.7″
* Coating: Pre-seasoned with Nitride Coating
* Heat Capacity: Up to 1200°F
* Compatibility: Gas, Electric, Ceramic, Infrared, Induction, Campfire
* Key Feature: Chemical-free (PFAS, PTFE free)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extra-Large Cooking Surface: The spacious design is a game-changer. I was able to cook for my entire family without having to juggle multiple pans or keep food warm in the oven.
* ✅ Excellent Heat Distribution: Despite its large size, I was pleasantly surprised by how evenly it heated across the entire surface after a proper pre-heat. It eliminated hot spots and ensured uniform cooking.
* ✅ Highly Versatile Compatibility: Its ability to work with nearly every heat source, from induction to an open flame, makes it one of the most adaptable griddles I tested.
* ✅ Durable Nitride Finish: The pre-seasoned nitride coating is notably tough and corrosion-resistant. It provides a fantastic base for developing a natural, long-lasting non-stick patina.
* ✅ Great Bundle with Press: The inclusion of a useful grill press adds significant value, making it instantly ready for crafting perfect smash burgers and paninis.
* ✅ Chemical-Free Peace of Mind: I appreciate the explicit assurance that the griddle is free from synthetic coatings like PTFE and PFOA, which is a major plus for health-conscious cooks.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Large Cooktop: Its size is its greatest strength and its main limitation. Measuring your cooktop before buying is essential, as it may overwhelm smaller stoves.
* ❌ Heavier Weight: The combination of a large surface area and heavy-duty steel makes this one of the heavier options to handle. It requires some strength to maneuver, especially when hot.
* ❌ Needs Ample Storage Space: This is not a small piece of cookware. You’ll need a dedicated spot in a large drawer or cabinet to store it.

My Expert’s Experience

Capacity and Convenience: This griddle was a revelation for weekend breakfast. I easily fit eight pancakes at once, something impossible on any other model I tested. It truly delivers on its promise of eliminating batch cooking, cutting my cooking time in half. For a family of four, this convenience cannot be overstated.

Heating and Performance: I tested the Premium Large Griddle over two burners on my gas stove. After a 5-minute preheat on medium, the heat distribution was impressively even. I seared four steaks side-by-side, and each one developed a consistent, even crust without any steaming. The performance matched that of much more expensive brands.

The Included Press: The bundled grill press is a fantastic addition. It’s solid and has a good weight to it, perfect for getting that maximum contact needed for a great sear. Using it for grilled cheese resulted in perfectly crisp, golden bread.

Best for Outdoor & Camping: Premium Carbon Steel Griddle with Gloves Review

This griddle is framed as the ultimate piece of cooking gear for the outdoor adventurer, and after testing it, I agree. The Premium Carbon Steel Griddle with Gloves is engineered to withstand the intense, unpredictable heat of a campfire. Its rugged construction and thoughtful inclusion of safety gloves make it the perfect choice for cooking great meals in the great outdoors.

Specification:
* Includes: 1 Carbon Steel Griddle, Heat-insulating Gloves
* Cooking Surface: 17.8″ x 8.7″
* Coating: Pre-seasoned with Nitride Coating
* Heat Capacity: Up to 1200°F
* Compatibility: Campfire, Grill, Gas, Electric, Induction
* Key Feature: Built to last a lifetime with heavy-duty steel.

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Built for Open Flames: This griddle is engineered to handle the extreme heat of a campfire. During my test over a wood fire, it showed absolutely no signs of warping, unlike thinner models would.
* ✅ Includes Essential Safety Gear: The fact that it comes with heat-insulating gloves is a huge, practical plus. Handling a blazing hot griddle over a fire is dangerous, and these gloves are absolutely necessary.
* ✅ Limitless Cooking Versatility: It’s just as effective on a home stove as it is on a grill or over hot coals. This makes it a true all-in-one solution for someone who cooks both at home and while camping.
* ✅ Lighter Than Cast Iron: It offers the high heat retention needed for campfire cooking but is significantly easier to pack and carry than a cast iron pan of a similar size. This matters when you’re hauling gear.
* ✅ Large Cooking Area: The ample surface is perfect for cooking group meals while camping. You can easily make breakfast for several people at once.
* ✅ Robust and Durable Feel: The heavy-duty steel feels indestructible. It gives you the confidence to use it in rugged environments without worrying about damage.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Careful Heat Management: Cooking over an open fire requires more skill and attention than on a controlled stovetop. You need to manage the coals to avoid creating extreme hot spots.
* ❌ Maintenance in the Field is Tougher: Cleaning and oiling a griddle while camping can be more challenging than in a home kitchen. Workaround: Bring a dedicated scrub brush, paper towels, and a small bottle of oil. Clean and oil it while it’s still warm from the fire.
* ❌ Gloves Have a Specific Fit: While essential, the included gloves are one-size-fits-all, so they may be bulky for users with smaller hands.

My Expert’s Experience

Campfire Performance: I tested the Premium Outdoor Griddle over a wood fire pit in my backyard, and it performed brilliantly. I placed it on a grill grate over hot coals, and it held a steady, even heat that was perfect for frying eggs and bacon for a camp-style breakfast. The included gloves were invaluable for adjusting its position and removing it from the fire safely.

Durability Test: This thing is built like a tank. The heavy-duty steel feels indestructible. I exposed it to intense, direct flames to see if it would warp, and it remained perfectly flat. It absolutely lives up to its “built to last a lifetime” promise and is something I would trust on a multi-day camping trip.

Outdoor to Indoor Transition: After my outdoor test, I cleaned it up and used it on my induction stove at home. It worked perfectly, heating up quickly and evenly. This proved its incredible versatility as a single griddle that can truly handle any cooking environment you throw at it.

Carbon Steel Griddle Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the final decision much easier. Here’s how my top 5 picks stack up against each other on the metrics that matter most.

Feature	Made In Griddle	Made In Griddle Set	Lodge Griddle	Premium Large Griddle	Premium Outdoor Griddle
Category	Best Overall	Best Premium Set	Best Value	Best for Large Meals	Best for Outdoor & Camping
Cooking Surface	17.5″ x 8.5″	17.5″ x 8.5″	18″ x 10″	17.8″ x 8.7″	17.8″ x 8.7″
Heat Compatibility	All Sources	All Sources	Gas, Grill, Campfire	All Sources	All Sources
Key Feature	Swedish Pro-Grade Steel	Includes Grill Press	Made in USA, Affordable	Extra-Large Surface	Campfire-Ready Build
Best For	Serious Home Cooks	Smash Burger Lovers	Budget-Conscious Buyers	Families & Batch Cooking	Campers & Grillers
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.9/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐

Overall Comparison: The Made In models clearly stand out for their premium build quality, refined performance, and superior heat control. The Lodge griddle offers an unbeatable value proposition, providing robust, reliable performance at a very accessible price. The two Premium models excel in offering a massive cooking area and universal heat source compatibility, with one tailored for camping.

Budget vs. Premium: The Lodge Griddle is the hands-down winner for anyone prioritizing price. It delivers the core carbon steel experience reliably. The Made In sets are a true “buy it for life” investment for those who demand professional-grade gear and are willing to pay for the superior performance and craftsmanship.

Final Recommendation Context: Your best choice truly depends on your primary use. For the ultimate combination of versatility and quality for a passionate home cook, the Made In Griddle is my top pick. For large family meals, the Premium Large Griddle is unmatched in capacity. And for affordability and classic reliability, Lodge is a legend for a reason.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Carbon Steel Griddle

The best carbon steel griddle for you is the one that best fits your stove, your cooking style, and your budget. This guide will walk you through the key factors I considered during my testing so you can make an informed choice.

• Material Thickness & Durability: This is crucial. Thicker steel, like the 4mm found on the Made In Griddle, offers significantly better heat retention and is far more resistant to warping. Warping is the most common issue with thinner griddles, especially when used on high, uneven heat. For rugged outdoor use or maximum durability, always prioritize a thicker, heavier griddle.

• Size & Cooking Surface Area: Before you click “buy,” measure your stovetop! A griddle that’s too large for your burners will heat unevenly and be frustrating to use. If you cook for a large family, an XL model like the Premium Large Griddle is a huge time-saver. For smaller households or kitchens, a standard 18-inch model is often more manageable.

• Heat Source Compatibility: Not all griddles are created equal. While most carbon steel is naturally compatible with gas and electric stoves, you must check for an “induction compatible” label if you have an induction cooktop. Critically, thinner griddles like the Lodge are often not recommended for flat glass top stoves due to the high risk of warping, which can damage the cooktop.

• Seasoning: Pre-Seasoned vs. Unseasoned: Most griddles I reviewed come pre-seasoned, which is a massive convenience that allows you to start cooking right away. Regardless of the factory finish, all carbon steel requires ongoing seasoning with oil to build and maintain its slick, non-stick surface. The pan’s performance will improve with every use.

• Handle Design & Safety: Look for handles that offer a secure and confident grip for maneuvering a hot, heavy griddle. Remember that integrated metal handles will get extremely hot. You will always need good oven mitts, welding gloves, or silicone grips to handle them safely.

• Weight and Maneuverability: Carbon steel is lighter than cast iron, but large griddles are still heavy. The Lodge at ~8 lbs is manageable, while larger models can exceed 15-20 lbs. Consider the weight if you have to lift it onto a high shelf or have difficulty with heavy cookware. Lighter models are generally easier to clean in the sink.

• Price and Value: A premium griddle is a long-term investment that can last for decades. However, a budget-friendly option from a reputable brand like Lodge provides excellent performance for its cost, making it a perfect starting point if you’re new to carbon steel.

FAQs About Carbon Steel Griddles

How is a carbon steel griddle different from cast iron?

A carbon steel griddle is lighter, heats up faster, and is more responsive to temperature changes than cast iron. This gives you more control. Cast iron is heavier, takes longer to heat up, but retains that heat for a longer period. Both develop a fantastic natural non-stick surface with proper seasoning, but many professional chefs prefer carbon steel for its unique blend of heat retention and nimble temperature control.

How do I season a new carbon steel griddle?

First, wash the griddle with warm, soapy water to remove any factory wax or coating, then dry it completely on the stove over low heat. Apply a very thin, even layer of a high-smoke-point oil (like grapeseed, canola, or sunflower oil) over the entire surface with a paper towel. Heat the griddle over medium-high heat until the oil starts to smoke lightly, then turn off the heat, let it cool, and wipe away any excess oil. Repeating this process 2-3 times will build a strong initial seasoning layer.

How do I clean my carbon steel griddle?

The best way to clean it is while it’s still warm. Scrape off any food residue with a flat-edged metal spatula, then use a paper towel to wipe it clean. For any stuck-on bits, use hot water and a non-abrasive scrub brush. Avoid using soap regularly, as it can strip the seasoning you’ve worked to build. Always dry the griddle completely on the stove over low heat for a minute or two before storing it to prevent any rust from forming.

Can I use a carbon steel griddle on an induction stove?

Yes, in most cases, carbon steel griddles are induction compatible because steel is a ferrous (magnetic) metal. However, you should always confirm with the manufacturer’s specifications to be certain. For induction to work effectively, the griddle must have a perfectly flat base to ensure proper contact with the induction surface for even heating.

Can I use a carbon steel griddle on a glass top stove?

This is risky and often not recommended, especially with thinner griddles. The primary concern is warping. A griddle that bows or warps under heat won’t make even contact with the flat glass surface, leading to poor heating performance. In a worst-case scenario, the trapped heat could even cause the glass cooktop to crack. If you have a glass cooktop, it is critical to choose a thick, high-quality, warp-resistant griddle and to always heat it up slowly and evenly, starting on low heat.

What is the best oil for seasoning a carbon steel griddle?

The best oils have a high smoke point, meaning they can withstand high heat without breaking down and becoming sticky. Excellent choices include grapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, Crisco, or specialized seasoning waxes made for carbon steel and cast iron. Avoid using oils with low smoke points like extra virgin olive oil for the initial high-heat seasoning process.

Will my carbon steel griddle warp?

Warping is a possibility, especially with thinner-gauge steel or when the griddle is exposed to thermal shock (rapid, extreme temperature changes). To prevent warping, always preheat your griddle slowly over low-to-medium heat for several minutes before cranking it to high. Never place a hot griddle into a sink of cold water. Investing in a thicker, heavier-gauge griddle (3mm or more) is the best defense against warping.

Are carbon steel griddles non-stick?

They are not non-stick out of the box like a Teflon-coated pan, but they become naturally non-stick with proper care and use. That non-stick surface is created through a process called seasoning, which is the polymerization of thin layers of oil baked onto the steel. The more you cook with fats and oils, the darker, more slick, and more non-stick the patina becomes.

What utensils can I use on a carbon steel griddle?

You can and should use metal utensils! The seasoning on a carbon steel griddle is a durable layer that is part of the steel itself, unlike fragile chemical non-stick coatings that can be easily scratched and ruined. A sturdy metal spatula is the ideal tool for flipping food and for scraping the griddle clean after cooking.

Does the black color mean the griddle is dirty?

No, a dark black, and often splotchy-looking, surface is the sign of a well-seasoned and well-loved carbon steel pan. This dark patina is the non-stick surface you have worked to build. It is not dirt or burnt-on food. Do not try to scrub your griddle back to its original silver color, as you will be removing all of your hard-earned seasoning.

Final Verdict: Which Carbon Steel Griddle Should You Buy?

After weeks of searing, frying, and flipping, it’s clear that while every griddle on this list is a fantastic choice, your personal cooking habits and budget will guide you to the perfect one. The differences in performance, size, and price are significant.

For the absolute best combination of performance, build quality, and versatility, my top recommendation is the Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Griddle. It is a true “buy it for life” tool that will excel in any cooking environment you put it in.

This griddle is perfect for you if…
* You demand professional-grade searing performance.
* You want one versatile piece for your stove, oven, and grill.
* You appreciate premium craftsmanship and durability.
* You are willing to invest in a long-lasting piece of cookware.

It might not be ideal for you if…
* You are on a strict budget.
* You have a glass-top stove and are concerned about weight.
* You rarely cook large meals.

For those who want to experience the benefits of carbon steel cooking without the premium price tag, the choice is simple. The Lodge 18 Inch Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Griddle is the undisputed champion of value. It’s a durable, American-made workhorse that delivers fantastic results for its price, making it the perfect gateway into the world of carbon steel.

Last update on 2026-02-17 at 01:50 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API