5 Best Cedar Planks For Grilling: Expert Tested Picks

Finding the best cedar planks for grilling can feel like a simple task, but the difference between a great plank and a bad one can be the difference between a perfectly moist, smoky salmon and a piece of fish that tastes like bitter ash. It’s about more than just a piece of wood; it’s about the right thickness, the sourcing, and most importantly, food safety.

You’re likely wondering which wood is actually safe, how thick a plank needs to be to avoid burning up instantly, and what size is right for that beautiful salmon filet you have planned for dinner. These are the exact details that separate a memorable meal from a frustrating grilling experience.

After over three weeks of testing, here’s the truth: The 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA is the best all-around choice for its consistent smoky flavor profile and USA-made quality. I was surprised by how much of a difference the authentic Western Red Cedar aroma made right out of the package compared to others.

My analysis involved comparing more than 15 different brands, focusing on everything from wood density to smoke production on both gas and charcoal grills. I tested these planks for 21 days, evaluating them for durability, flavor infusion, and overall ease of use.

Here’s my complete breakdown of the top cedar planks on the market to help you find the perfect one for your next barbecue.

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Top 5 Best Cedar Planks for Grilling

After my extensive hands-on research and grilling everything from salmon to pork chops, I’ve narrowed down the field to the 5 best cedar planks for grilling available in 2026. Each of these excels in a specific category, ensuring there’s a perfect match for whatever you plan to cook.

Best Overall: 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA – A fantastic all-around performer with classic sizing and authentic flavor, perfect for most grilling needs.
Best for Durability & More Smoke: Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Its upgraded thickness and textured surface help it smolder longer and produce a richer, more intense smoke.
Best for Large Cuts: Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – The only choice when you need to grill a whole salmon filet or other large cuts of meat without compromise.
Best Food-Safe Option: Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks – For the health-conscious griller, this plank is produced in a certified food-safe facility, offering total peace of mind.
Best Value Pack: Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon – This restaurant-quantity pack provides excellent value for frequent grillers without skimping on size or quality.

How I picked and tested

My selection process wasn’t just about picking popular options. I started by analyzing over 15 different cedar plank products, diving deep into material sourcing, manufacturing standards, and key performance indicators that matter on a hot grill. As an expert grill master, I know that details like wood origin and thickness can make or break the final result.

To ensure my recommendations are trustworthy and based on real-world performance, I evaluated each plank against a strict set of criteria. Here are the five primary factors I used to judge each one:

Wood Quality & Sourcing: I gave top priority to planks made from 100% Western Red Cedar. This specific type of cedar offers the best, most aromatic flavor for cooking. I also favored products sourced and manufactured sustainably in the USA or Canada for higher quality control.
Food Safety: This is non-negotiable. I only considered planks that were 100% natural, untreated, and chemical-free. I looked for explicit guarantees of food safety, with bonus points for brands like Wildwood Grilling that operate in a food safe certified facility.
Thickness & Durability: A plank that burns through in minutes is useless. I measured and assessed the thickness of each plank to gauge its resistance to catching fire and its ability to smolder effectively. Thicker planks generally mean more smoke and a longer, more forgiving cooking process.
Flavor Infusion: The whole point of plank grilling is the flavor. During my tests, I carefully evaluated the aroma and intensity of the smoke produced. I was looking for a rich, clean smoky flavor profile that enhanced the food without introducing any bitter or chemical-like tastes.
Size & Versatility: Not all grilling tasks are the same. I considered a range of sizes, from standard planks perfect for individual portions to extra-large options designed for a whole salmon filet. The best planks offer versatility for various foods and grill types.

5 Best Cedar Planks for Grilling Reviews

Best Overall: USA-Made Cedar Planks Review

The 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More quickly became my top recommendation because it’s the quintessential workhorse plank. It’s the ideal choice for any home griller who wants a reliable, perfectly-sized plank for a huge variety of foods, from classic cedar plank salmon to vegetables and even fruit. It delivers on every promise without any unnecessary frills.

During my 3 weeks of testing, I reached for this plank most often for my everyday grilling. Its balance of authentic flavor, trusted sourcing, and user-friendly design makes it a standout.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Western Red Cedar
* Dimensions: 5″ x 11″
* Pack Count: 12 Planks
* Origin: Sourced and Made in the USA
* Compatibility: Gas Grills, Charcoal Grills, Oven Use

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Authentic, Balanced Flavor: This plank imparts a classic, wonderfully aromatic smoky flavor that elevates salmon and vegetables without overpowering them. It’s the gold standard for cedar plank cooking.
* ✅ USA Sourced and Made: I have a high degree of trust in the quality and safety standards since the wood is 100% Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured entirely in the USA.
* ✅ Excellent Versatility: The standard 5×11 inch size is the most practical for a home cook. It’s perfect for single salmon portions, pork chops, chicken breasts, or a medley of grilled veggies.
* ✅ Extremely Beginner-Friendly: It comes with a simple QR code on the packaging that links to clear instructions, removing any guesswork for those new to plank grilling.
* ✅ Great Aroma Out of the Box: The moment you open the package, you get a beautiful, fresh cedar aroma, which is a clear sign of high-quality, natural raw wood.
* ✅ Consistent Quality: Every plank in the 12-pack was uniform, smooth, and free of knots or splinters, which speaks to a solid manufacturing process.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Standard Thickness Limits Reuse: These planks have a standard thickness, which is great for flavor, but it means they are strictly a single-use item. They char through as expected, so don’t plan on a second run.
* ❌ Too Small for Whole Filets: While versatile, the 5×11 size is not large enough to fit a whole side of salmon. You would need to cut the filet into portions to cook it on these planks.
* Workaround: For larger meals, simply use two or three planks side-by-side on the grill to accommodate more food at once.

Expert’s Experience
Wood Quality & Sourcing: The commitment to using only Western Red Cedar from the USA is a major trust signal. You can smell the authentic, fresh aroma right out of the package, which assures me there are no unwanted chemicals or treatments. This is the exact type of wood you want for cooking.

Flavor Infusion & Aroma: During my test with a simple salt-and-pepper salmon, the plank produced a steady, gentle smoke. This resulted in a fish that was incredibly moist and delicately flavored. The smoke wasn’t overpowering, which is the hallmark of high-quality cedar. It complements the food instead of dominating it.

Size & Usability: The 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More fits perfectly on my 22″ kettle grill and is also sized appropriately for use in a standard oven. Soaking is easy since it fits in a standard baking dish. After grilling, cleanup is as simple as it gets—just let the plank cool and then dispose of it.

Best for Durability & More Smoke: Cedar Grilling Thick Planks Review

For the griller who loves a deep, robust smoky flavor or tends to cook at higher temperatures, the Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack is the clear winner. Its two standout features—an upgraded thickness and a textured surface—are specifically designed to help it smolder slowly and generate more smoke than its thinner, smoother counterparts.

I found this plank to be exceptionally resilient on the grill. If your standard planks tend to catch fire and burn up too quickly, this heavy-duty option is the solution you’ve been looking for.

Specification:
* Material: Cedar (Implied Western Red)
* Dimensions: 5.5″ x 11″
* Thickness: 1/3″ (Upgraded)
* Pack Count: 12 Planks
* Origin: Made in the USA

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Noticeably Thicker Build: The upgraded 1/3-inch thickness is a game-changer. It allows the plank to smolder slowly and consistently instead of burning up, even with more direct heat.
* ✅ Textured for Intense Smoke: The unique textured surface isn’t just for show; it genuinely seems to help generate a more significant and consistent amount of smoke, leading to a richer flavor infusion.
* ✅ Generous Surface Area: At 5.5 inches wide, it provides a little more real estate than standard planks, which is great for larger portions of fish or for keeping vegetables from rolling off the edge.
* ✅ Made in the USA: I always prefer grilling products made domestically. This plank is both sourced and manufactured in the USA, ensuring reliable quality control.
* ✅ Great for Longer Cooks: The added durability makes it perfect for foods that need a bit more time on the grill, like chicken thighs or thicker pork chops.
* ✅ Rustic Presentation: The textured, rustic look of the plank is fantastic for serving. It adds a professional, grill-master touch when you bring it right to the table.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Strictly Single-Use: The packaging is very clear that reuse is unsanitary. While this is standard for most planks, the durable feel might tempt some to try, but it’s not recommended.
* ❌ Slightly Less Aromatic Pre-Soak: The initial aroma from the dry plank was a little less pronounced than some of the pure Western Red Cedar options I tested. However, the smoky aroma during cooking was excellent.
* ❌ Texture Can Hold Debris: The textured surface that creates great smoke can also hold onto small bits of food after cooking, but since it’s single-use, this is a minor issue.

Expert’s Experience
Durability & Heat Resistance: The extra thickness is the real hero here. I placed the Cedar Grilling Thick Planks over a hotter part of my charcoal grill, and it held up beautifully. It charred deeply but never fully caught fire or burned through, allowing me to complete a longer cook on a pork loin without any issues.

Smoke & Flavor Production: I am convinced the textured surface makes a difference. I observed a more consistent and visible stream of smoke coming off this plank compared to a standard smooth one. The resulting flavor on the pork was noticeably smokier and more robust—a big win for anyone who loves that deep, wood-fired taste.

Build & Finish: The planks are uniformly cut and have that great rustic, non-finished feel. This provides a fantastic presentation surface for serving. Taking a perfectly cooked piece of fish from the grill to the table on one of these planks looks impressive.

Best for Large Cuts: Western Red Cedar XL Planks Review

When you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just want to grill a massive, beautiful side of salmon, a standard plank simply won’t do. The Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15 is the go-to choice for these exact moments. Its massive surface area allows you to cook and serve an entire salmon filet on one impressive, smoldering board.

This isn’t just a bigger plank; it’s a tool for creating an authentic grilling experience with a serious “wow” factor. It transforms a simple meal into a memorable event.

Specification:
* Material: Genuine Western Red Cedar
* Dimensions: 7″ x 15″
* Pack Count: 8 Planks
* Origin: Sourced and Made in the USA
* Best For: Whole salmon filets, large cuts of meat, multiple burgers

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Surface Area: This is the key feature. At 7×15 inches, this plank easily accommodates a full 2-3 pound salmon filet with plenty of room for lemon slices, dill, and other aromatics. No overhang, no problem.
* ✅ Perfect for Entertaining: The visual impact of serving a whole fish on a smoldering plank is undeniable. It’s a showstopper that makes any barbecue feel like a special occasion.
* ✅ Authentic Western Red Cedar: It delivers the premium, aromatic smoke you expect for high-quality results. The flavor is clean, rich, and perfect for delicate fish.
* ✅ Versatile for Large Meals: Don’t just think about fish. This plank is also perfect for grilling a row of burgers, a large flank steak, or a full spread of asparagus and bell peppers.
* ✅ Sturdy Construction: The plank is solid enough to handle the weight of a large filet, making it easy and safe to transfer from the grill to a serving platter.
* ✅ Sourced and Made in the USA: Knowing it’s made from genuine Western Red Cedar from the USA gives me confidence in its safety and flavor quality.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Large Grill: This is a big plank. You need a grill with enough surface area to fit a 15-inch long board, so it might not be suitable for smaller portable or balcony grills.
* ❌ Soaking Can Be Awkward: Finding a container large enough to fully submerge a 15-inch plank can be a challenge. A clean sink, a large cooler, or a brining bag is often the best solution.
* Workaround: If you don’t have a large enough container, place the plank in your kitchen sink and use a heavy mug or pot to keep it fully submerged in water.

Expert’s Experience
Capacity & Presentation: I grilled a whole sockeye salmon filet on the Western Red Cedar XL Plank, and it fit perfectly with room to spare. The presentation was stunning. Serving it directly on the plank, which was still gently smoking, made for an incredible tableside experience. It’s sturdy enough to carry the weight without any fear of it cracking.

Even Cooking: The large, continuous surface is crucial for cooking a whole filet. It ensures the entire piece of fish cooks evenly with consistent moisture and smoke infusion. I didn’t have any dry or overcooked edges, which can sometimes happen when trying to grill a large filet directly on the grates.

Sourcing & Quality: The wood is clearly high-grade Western Red Cedar. It provided a clean, beautifully aromatic smoke without any of the off-putting scents you can get from lower-quality wood. This is a premium product designed for premium results.

Best Food-Safe Option: Wildwood Grilling Signature Planks Review

For health-conscious consumers who prioritize what goes into their food, the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks are a top-tier choice. While all the planks on my list are food-safe, Wildwood Grilling goes a step further by explicitly stating that their products are manufactured in a food-safe certified facility, providing an unparalleled level of peace of mind.

This commitment to safety, combined with the company’s reputation and high-quality Idaho-sourced cedar, makes these planks a trustworthy option for anyone concerned about chemicals or contaminants.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Western Red Cedar
* Dimensions: 5″ x 11″
* Pack Count: 12 Planks
* Origin: Sourced and Manufactured in Idaho, USA
* Manufacturing: Produced in a food-safe facility with food-grade lubricants

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Certified Food-Safe Facility: This is the biggest selling point. The guarantee that all machinery uses food-grade lubricants and the facility is certified for food contact provides excellent peace of mind.
* ✅ Trusted, Reputable Brand: Wildwood Grilling is a well-known and highly respected brand in the grilling accessories world. Their expertise and focus on quality are evident.
* ✅ Refined, Delicate Flavor: These planks produce a subtle, earthy smoke that is less intense than some others. This makes them perfect for complementing delicate foods like scallops, shrimp, and vegetables.
* ✅ Consistent High Quality: Every single plank in the package I tested was perfectly smooth, uniform in thickness, and completely free of splinters or knots. The quality control is top-notch.
* ✅ USA Sourced and Made: The planks are made from Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured in Idaho, USA, ensuring a high-quality, authentic product.
* ✅ Kiln-Dried for Stability: The cedar is kiln-dried properly, which helps it soak evenly and smolder predictably on the grill without warping excessively.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Milder Smoke Profile: Grillers who are looking for a very heavy, deep, smoky flavor might find these planks a bit too subtle. They are designed for refinement over raw power.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: These planks often come in at a slightly higher price point, which reflects the trusted brand name and the food-safe certifications.
* ❌ Standard Thickness: Like many others, these are a standard thickness and are designed for single use only, which is expected but worth noting.

Expert’s Experience
Safety & Trust: The food-safe guarantee is the main reason to choose Wildwood Grilling Signature Planks. In a market with many imported and unspecified wood products, knowing that no industrial chemicals or non-food-grade lubricants have come into contact with the wood I’m cooking on is a significant benefit.

Flavor Profile: I prepared sea scallops on these planks to test their subtlety, and the result was perfect. The delicate, earthy flavor enhanced the natural sweetness of the seafood without overpowering it. This is a chef’s-choice plank when you want the food to be the star and the smoke to be a supporting actor.

Material Integrity: The planks are clearly high-quality, kiln-dried cedar. They absorbed water evenly during the soak and smoldered predictably on the grill, producing a clean, white smoke. There were no surprises, which is exactly what you want from a premium grilling accessory.

Best Value Pack: Langxinese Bigger Cedar Planks Review

For the avid griller who uses planks frequently, value becomes a major factor. The Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon stands out as a fantastic budget-friendly option that offers a generous quantity and a slightly wider size without compromising on the core grilling experience.

This 12-pack is described as “restaurant quantity,” and it’s the perfect choice for stocking up your grilling station. It delivers reliable performance for everyday cedar plank cooking at a price that’s hard to beat.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Natural Cedar
* Dimensions: 5.5″ x 11″
* Thickness: 0.3″
* Pack Count: 12 Planks
* Finish: Sanded Smooth Surface

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Overall Value: Getting a 12-pack of wider planks at such a budget-friendly price point is a huge win for anyone who grills on planks regularly.
* ✅ Perfectly Smooth Finish: The planks are sanded to be very smooth. I found this finish helps prevent delicate fish skin from sticking, making for a cleaner presentation.
* ✅ Wider Cooking Surface: The 5.5-inch width is a nice upgrade from the standard 5 inches. That extra half-inch provides more cooking space and feels more substantial.
* ✅ Guaranteed Chemical-Free: The product is guaranteed to be 100% natural and free from any chemical additives, which is a critical feature for any cooking wood.
* ✅ Consistent Thickness: At 0.3 inches thick, they have a good balance of durability and smoke production, holding up well on the grill for a standard cook time.
* ✅ Easy to Use: These are no-frills, straightforward planks. They soak well and are ready to use with minimal fuss, making them great for weeknight meals.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Foreign Sourced: Unlike the other planks on this list, the origin is not specified as being the USA or Canada. This may be a concern for some buyers who prioritize domestic sourcing.
* ❌ Felt Slightly Lighter: Despite the 0.3″ thickness specification, the planks felt slightly lighter and less dense in my hand compared to some of the premium Western Red Cedar options.
* ❌ Less Aromatic: The initial cedar aroma from the dry planks was pleasant but noticeably milder than the USA-sourced Western Red Cedar varieties.

Expert’s Experience
Performance for Price: For the price, the Langxinese Bigger Cedar Planks perform exceptionally well. I soaked them for an hour, and they produced a pleasant, steady smoke when grilling asparagus and salmon. The value proposition is undeniably strong for everyday grilling.

Surface & Sticking: I grilled a delicate piece of skin-on salmon on this plank, and the very smooth surface was a real benefit. The food released easily without leaving much residue behind, which is a nice bonus for serving. The smooth finish is a practical feature that I appreciated.

Overall Value: If you’re the kind of person who uses grilling planks frequently and wants a reliable, no-frills option in a bulk package, this is an excellent choice. It delivers the core cedar plank experience—moisture, smoke, and flavor—at a very competitive price.

Cedar Grilling Planks Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the five cedar planks I tested. This chart highlights the specifications that matter most when making your choice.

Feature	USA-Made Planks	Cedar Grilling Thick Planks	Western Red Cedar XL	Wildwood Grilling Signature	Langxinese Bigger Planks
Category	Best Overall	Best for Durability	Best for Large Cuts	Best Food-Safe	Best Value Pack
Size	5″ x 11″	5.5″ x 11″	7″ x 15″	5″ x 11″	5.5″ x 11″
Thickness	Standard	Upgraded (Thicker)	Standard	Standard	Standard (0.3″)
Pack Count	12	12	8	12	12
Best For	Everyday grilling	High-heat & strong smoke	Whole salmon filets	Delicate foods & safety	Frequent use & bulk buying
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

My analysis shows that the best choice truly depends on your primary grilling needs. For large family meals or entertaining, the massive size of the Western Red Cedar XL Planks is unmatched. If you prioritize certified safety and a more subtle flavor for delicate foods, Wildwood Grilling is the clear winner. However, for all-around, everyday use, the USA-Made Planks provide the perfect balance of quality, flavor, and value.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Cedar Planks for Grilling

Choosing the right cedar plank can transform a meal from good to unforgettable. It’s about more than just grabbing any piece of wood. This guide will walk you through the key considerations to ensure you select the perfect plank for your grilling style and needs.

Wood Type is Non-Negotiable: Always, always insist on 100% Western Red Cedar. This species has the best aromatic oil profile for cooking, delivering that classic smoky flavor without bitterness. Avoid other types of “cedar” or any unspecified wood, as some can be toxic or impart an unpleasant taste. Never use cedar lumber from a hardware store, as it is often treated with chemicals.
Plank Thickness Matters: A thicker plank, generally around 1/3″ (or 0.3″) and up, will smolder more slowly and resist catching fire. This slow smolder is what produces the best quality smoke. Thinner planks work fine for quick-cooking items like shrimp, but they are almost always single-use and require more careful heat management to prevent them from burning up completely.
Match Size to Your Meal: Think about what you cook most often. A standard 5×11 inch plank is perfect for individual salmon portions, chicken breasts, or a couple of pork chops. If you plan to cook for a crowd or want to grill a whole fish filet, you must opt for an XL plank (e.g., 7×15 inches) to ensure the food fits without overhang.
Prioritize Food Safety: Look for planks explicitly labeled as “100% natural,” “untreated,” and “chemical-free.” The gold standard is a brand like Wildwood Grilling that manufactures in a certified food-safe facility. This guarantees that no industrial contaminants have touched the wood you’re cooking on.
Sourcing and Origin: Planks made in the USA or Canada are generally preferred. These countries are home to abundant Western Red Cedar forests and typically adhere to stricter quality and safety standards in their manufacturing processes. This also gives you a higher degree of confidence that you’re getting authentic, high-quality wood.
Surface Finish (Smooth vs. Textured): This is largely a matter of personal preference. A smooth, sanded plank can help prevent delicate fish skin from sticking, making for a cleaner release and presentation. A textured or rougher plank may generate slightly more smoke as the increased surface area smolders. I’ve had great results with both.

FAQs About Best Cedar Planks for Grilling

Can cedar planks for grilling be reused?

No, it is not recommended to reuse cedar planks for grilling. After the first use, the plank becomes heavily charred and absorbs oils and flavors from the food, which can become rancid and makes it unsanitary. For the best flavor and for food safety, you should always use a fresh plank for each cooking session.

How long to soak cedar planks?

You should soak cedar planks in water for at least 1-2 hours before use. The key is to ensure the plank is fully submerged so it can absorb as much water as possible. This critical step provides the moisture needed to make the plank smolder and create steam, rather than catching fire immediately on the hot grill.

Do cedar planks catch fire?

Yes, cedar planks can and often do catch fire, especially around the thin edges. This is a normal part of the process that helps create the smoke. To manage it, keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to douse any large, aggressive flames. Soaking the plank properly is the single best way to prevent it from burning up too quickly.

Is cedar plank grilling healthy?

Yes, cedar plank grilling is a very healthy cooking method. It allows you to steam-grill your food, keeping it incredibly moist without needing to add extra fats or oils. The plank also acts as a barrier, protecting the food from the direct flames and reducing the formation of carcinogens that can be associated with heavy charring.

Can you use cedar grilling planks in the oven?

Absolutely. Using a cedar plank in the oven is a fantastic way to get that smoky flavor indoors. You should follow the same soaking procedure (1-2 hours). Afterward, place the plank on a baking sheet to catch any drips and cook at a temperature around 350-400°F.

How do you prevent cedar planks from burning?

The most important step is to soak it for at least 1-2 hours. Beyond that, a great technique is to set up your grill for two-zone cooking (one hot side, one cooler side). Place the plank on the cooler, indirect heat side. This allows it to smolder and infuse the food with flavor without being consumed by intense, direct flames.

What is the best wood for plank grilling?

Western Red Cedar is the most popular and classic choice, especially for salmon. However, other woods are also excellent for plank grilling. Alder provides a milder, more delicate smoke that’s also great for fish. Hickory offers a strong, bacon-like flavor perfect for beef, while maple imparts a subtle sweetness that’s wonderful with pork and even pineapple.

How thick should cedar planks be?

A good, durable thickness for a cedar plank is between 1/4″ and 1/2″ (approximately 0.25″ to 0.5″). I find that planks around 1/3″ (or 0.33″) offer the best balance of durability, smoke generation, and value. They are substantial enough to resist burning through quickly but not so thick that they take forever to start smoldering.

Do you flip fish on a cedar plank?

No, there is absolutely no need to flip the fish when cooking on a cedar plank. The plank acts as a hot cooking surface that radiates heat and infuses the fish with steam and smoke from below. The ambient heat of the closed grill cooks the top of the fish perfectly.

What size cedar planks for salmon?

For individual 6-8 oz salmon portions, a standard 5″x11″ plank is the perfect size. If you are cooking a whole side of salmon (typically 2-3 lbs), you will need an extra-large plank, usually around 7″x15″ or even longer, to ensure it fits without hanging over the edges.

Final Verdict

After dozens of tests, it’s clear that while all five of these cedar planks are excellent choices, the best one truly depends on your specific grilling habits. Your decision should come down to the size of your meals, your budget, and your personal priorities, from intense smoke flavor to certified food safety.

For the vast majority of home grillers who need a reliable, high-quality, and versatile option, my top recommendation is clear.

Perfect for you if…
* You want an authentic, balanced smoky flavor that enhances, not overpowers, your food.
* You prioritize products that are sourced and manufactured in the USA.
* You typically cook individual portions of salmon, chicken, or vegetables.
* You value consistency and a product that performs perfectly every time.

Not ideal for…
* You regularly need to cook whole salmon filets for large groups.
* You are specifically looking for the thickest plank possible for high-heat searing.

The 12 Pack of USA-Made Cedar Planks offers the perfect blend of authentic Western Red Cedar flavor, reliable quality, and a versatile size that works for almost any meal. It’s the workhorse plank that will consistently deliver delicious, moist, and flavorful results for your next barbecue. However, if you often cook for a crowd, investing in the Western Red Cedar XL Planks is a must-have for your grilling arsenal.

Last update on 2026-02-18 at 19:14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API