Best Non-Stick Grill Pans: Reviews And Buying Guide

Grill pans are a great alternative for people who want to experience grilling without the hassle of setting up an outdoor grill. While they may not offer the same smoky flavour as a charcoal grill, grill pans can still create the texture and caramelisation of a wood or gas grill.

When choosing a grill pan, there are several factors to consider, such as material, size, shape, weight, handle design, and ease of cleaning. Nonstick grill pans are ideal for delicate proteins like fish but cannot withstand high temperatures, while cast iron pans can take more heat and are great for cooking steak or burgers.

Some of the best nonstick grill pans on the market include the Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11 Square Grill Pan, the ESLITE LIFE Nonstick Grill Pan, and the Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet. For those looking for a cast iron option, the Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan, the Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan, and the Le Creuset Signature Square Skillet Grill Pan are excellent choices.

Best non-stick grill pan for delicate proteins

When it comes to choosing the best non-stick grill pan for delicate proteins, there are several factors to consider. Non-stick grill pans are ideal for cooking delicate proteins like fish as they prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Here are some of the best options available:

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11" Square Grill Pan

This non-stick grill pan is a great choice for delicate proteins. It has a comfortable long handle, 1.5-inch high sides, and a spacious 11-inch square cooking surface. The pan heats up decently hot and cooks food evenly, resulting in decent grill marks. It is also easy to clean and dishwasher-safe, although hand washing is recommended.

Jean Patrique The Whatever Pan

The Jean Patrique The Whatever Pan is a sturdy yet lightweight option made from die-cast aluminum. It features a non-stick surface that can withstand high temperatures without releasing fumes or losing its non-stick quality. The pan has 1.8-inch high sides to reduce splatter and comes with a bonus glass lid. It is oven-safe up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit and compatible with all cooktops. However, the handles get extremely hot, so be sure to use oven mitts when handling.

Staub Enameled Cast Iron Pure Grill

The Staub Enameled Cast Iron Pure Grill is a beautiful and sturdy grill pan. It has a 10-inch diameter and weighs 7.3 pounds, making it easier to handle than some of the heavier options. It heats evenly and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. It is compatible with electric, gas, radiant, induction, and halogen cooktops. The round handles stay cool and are comfortable to grip, but they do get extremely hot, so be sure to use oven mitts. While this pan performs well with burgers and bread, it may stick slightly with delicate proteins like fish, even after preheating and oiling.

Anolon Advanced Home 11-Inch Deep Square Grill Pan

The Anolon Advanced Home 11-Inch Deep Square Grill Pan is a budget-friendly non-stick option. It has 1.75-inch high sides, plenty of grilling space, and a comfortable rubberized handle. The pan is oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and is recommended for lower heat settings to prolong its non-stick quality. It cooks food evenly and releases food with no trouble, although the grill marks may not be as pronounced. The handle stays cool during cooking, and the pan has pour spouts for easy grease removal. It is not dishwasher-safe, but cleanup is easy with a light scrub and warm soapy water.

Best cast iron non-stick grill pan

If you're looking for a cast iron non-stick grill pan, you're in luck! There are several options available that can help you achieve those coveted grill marks and caramelization on your food. Here are some of the best cast iron non-stick grill pans on the market:

Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan

The Lodge Chef Collection grill pan is a top pick for a cast iron non-stick grill pan. It features moderately deep grill grates with just 0.2 inches between them, creating distinct grill marks. Its low sides make it easy to maneuver food, and it's adaptable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, it has two short handles, requiring the use of both hands to move it while hot. It is available for $66 on Amazon and $45 at Kohl's.

Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan

The Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan is a beautiful and functional option. It offers even heat distribution and is easy to maneuver with a mitted hand. It creates beautiful grill marks and is easy to clean, although it may take a little longer to scrub off stuck-on bits. This pan is on the heavier side at 7.3 pounds and is priced at $234 on Amazon, $150 at Williams-Sonoma, and $150 at Wayfair.

Smithey Ironware Co. No. 12 Grill Pan

If you're looking for a splurge-worthy option, the Smithey Ironware Co. No. 12 Grill Pan is a great choice. This pan is well-made and leaves sear marks on everything cooked in it. Its deep sides keep fat from splattering, and food releases easily. It is easy to clean and retains heat well. The only downside is its price, retailing for $220.

Victoria Cast Iron Square Grill Pan

For a budget-friendly option, the Victoria Cast Iron Square Grill Pan is an excellent choice. It sears well, cleans up nicely, and is a great value at $25 at Walmart and $36 at Macy's. Its grates are spaced fairly wide, preventing steaming. However, it heats up quickly, which can make temperature management a bit tricky.

Cuisinart Chef's Classic 9.25-Inch Square Grill Pan

Another budget-friendly option is the Cuisinart Chef's Classic grill pan. This enameled cast iron pan heats evenly, sears well, and has a longer handle for easy maneuvering. It is available for $40 at Amazon and Walmart and is a great choice for those seeking quick cleanup and low maintenance.

Best non-stick grill pan for grill marks

If you're looking for a grill pan that will give you those coveted grill marks on your food, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the grill pan's material, size, and handle design are important factors that will impact its performance. Secondly, the height and spacing of the grill pan's ribs or grates play a crucial role in achieving distinct grill marks. Let's take a look at some of the best non-stick grill pans for grill marks that are currently on the market.

Finex 10-Inch Cast Iron Grill Pan

The Finex 10-Inch Cast Iron Grill Pan is an excellent choice for achieving well-defined grill marks. Its design makes it easy to add and manipulate food in the pan, and the ribs are spaced just right to allow grease to run off while giving enough room for juices to evaporate. The octagonal shape also provides options for pouring off grease and juices. However, the handle, intended to stay cool, didn't live up to expectations, and there was some temperature variation across the cooking surface. The Finex grill pan is available for $200 at Amazon, Williams-Sonoma, and Sur La Table.

Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan

The Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan is another great option for grill marks. With moderately deep grill grates and just 0.2 inches between them, this pan creates super distinct grill marks. It also has low sides, making it easy to maneuver food. The Lodge grill pan is available for $66 on Amazon and $45 at Kohl's.

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11" Square Grill Pan

If you're looking for a non-stick option, the Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11" Square Grill Pan is a sturdy yet lightweight choice. It has a comfortable-to-grip long handle and 1½-inch-high sides, providing plenty of grilling surface. This pan is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and can be used on gas, electric, and glass-top stoves. Calphalon offers a lifetime warranty and claims that the non-stick quality lasts 40% longer than its Classic pans. You can purchase this grill pan for $40 at Amazon or Walmart.

Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan

The Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan is a beautiful and functional option for achieving grill marks. While it is on the heavier side, it provides even heat distribution and retention, making it excellent for high-heat searing or low-to-medium heat cooking. The round handles are comfortable to grip, but they do get extremely hot, so silicone mitts are recommended. This grill pan is available for $234 on Amazon, $150 at Williams-Sonoma, and $150 at Wayfair.

Other Options

Other grill pans that did not make the top picks but are still worth considering include the Cuisinart Chef's Classic 9.25-Inch Square Grill Pan, Victoria Cast Iron Square Grill Pan, and Smithey Ironware Co. No. 12 Grill Pan. These pans offer a combination of good grill marks, easy cleanup, and budget-friendly prices.

Best non-stick grill pan for easy cleaning

A grill pan is a great alternative to an outdoor grill, especially if you live in an apartment or don't have the space for a full grill setup. While they may not impart the same smoky flavour as a charcoal grill, grill pans are excellent for achieving the texture and caramelisation of food cooked on a grill.

When choosing a grill pan, it's important to consider the material, size, shape, handle design, and ease of cleaning. Here are some of the best non-stick grill pans that offer easy cleaning and great performance:

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11" Square Grill Pan

This non-stick grill pan is a great choice for quick and easy weeknight dinners. It is sturdy yet not too heavy, with a comfortable-to-grip long handle. The 11-inch square shape provides plenty of grilling surface, and it is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Calphalon claims that the non-stick coating lasts 40% longer than its Classic pans, and it is backed by a lifetime warranty. It is dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing is recommended for easier cleanup.

Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan

This grill pan features moderately deep grill grates and low sides, making it easy to manoeuvre food. It creates distinct grill marks and has two short handles for easier handling. It is made of cast iron, which is sturdy and adaptable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, the short handles require the use of two oven mitts when moving the pan. It is available at Amazon and Kohls.com, with prices ranging from $45 to $66.

Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan

The Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan is a beautiful and functional piece. It is a heavy pan due to its enameled cast iron construction, but it provides even heat distribution. It has a spring-encased handle that stays cool and is easy to grip. It creates beautiful grill marks and is easy to clean, although it may require a little more time to scrub off any stuck-on bits. It is oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is suitable for various cooktops. You can find it at Amazon, Williams-Sonoma, and Wayfair, with prices ranging from $150 to $234.

Anolon Advanced Home 11-Inch Deep Square Grill Pan

This non-stick grill pan is a great budget option, offering high-quality performance at an affordable price. It has 1.75-inch high sides, plenty of grilling space, and a comfortable, sturdy rubberised handle. It is oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and is recommended to use on lower heat settings to retain its non-stick quality. It is not dishwasher-safe, but the easy cleanup makes hand-washing a breeze. You can find this pan online for around $40.

Caraway Square Grill Pan

The Caraway Square Grill Pan is a first-of-its-kind 11" grill pan designed for perfect sear lines. It has a non-stick ceramic coating that is free of potentially toxic materials like PFOA, PTFE, and other PFAs. The ceramic coating requires minimal oil and makes cleaning a breeze. It is oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit and is compatible with all cooktops, including induction. This pan is available for $90, with free shipping and free returns.

Best non-stick grill pan for even heating

When it comes to choosing the best non-stick grill pan for even heating, several factors come into play. Here are some recommendations and key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan

The Lodge Chef Collection 11-Inch Cast Iron Square Grill Pan stands out for its ability to deliver even heating and distinct grill marks. Its moderately deep grill grates, measuring 0.2 inches, create well-defined sear marks while preventing food from sticking to the pan. The pan's low sides also make it easy to manoeuvre food. It is available for $66 on Amazon and $45 at Kohls.com.

Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan

The Staub Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan is a premium option that offers both beauty and performance. It distributes heat evenly and efficiently, resulting in beautiful grill marks. While it is on the heavier side at 7.3 pounds, it is still easy to manoeuvre with a mitted hand. This pan is ideal for those seeking a combination of style and functionality and is available for $234 on Amazon, $150 at Williams-Sonoma, and $150 at Wayfair.

Smithey Ironware Co. No. 12 Grill Pan

If you're willing to splurge, the Smithey Ironware Co. No. 12 Grill Pan is a well-crafted and beautiful option. Its polished grill grates leave sear marks on your food, and its depth prevents fat splatter. This pan is also easy to clean and food releases effortlessly. While it carries a higher price tag, starting at $220, it is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality grill pan.

Victoria Cast Iron Square Grill Pan

For those on a budget, the Victoria Cast Iron Square Grill Pan offers excellent value. It sears effectively and cleans up nicely. Priced at $25 at Walmart and $36 at Macy's, it is a great option for those wanting to add a grill pan to their kitchen without breaking the bank.

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11" Square Grill Pan

If you're specifically seeking a non-stick option, the Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Non-Stick 11" Square Grill Pan is a sturdy yet lightweight choice. It heats up effectively, cooks food evenly, and produces decent grill marks. This pan is easy to clean and is dishwasher-safe, although hand-washing is recommended. It is available for $40 at Amazon and Walmart.

When selecting a grill pan, it's important to consider factors such as material, size, shape, and handle design. Cast iron and enameled cast iron are popular choices for their heat retention and distribution properties, although they require more care and cleaning. Non-stick grill pans are convenient for delicate proteins but should not be used over high heat as it can affect their non-stick quality. Additionally, square grill pans tend to fit burners better than rectangular ones, and higher sides can help contain grease splatters.

Frequently asked questions