I Tested the Durability and Versatility of Flat Top Cast Iron – Here’s What I Discovered

I have always been fascinated by the durability and versatility of cast iron cookware. From skillets to Dutch ovens, this material has stood the test of time in kitchens all over the world. But one particular type of cast iron has caught my attention lately – flat top cast iron. This unique piece of cookware offers a flat cooking surface that is perfect for searing, grilling, and even baking. Join me as I dive into the world of flat top cast iron and discover why it’s a must-have in any kitchen.

I Tested The Flat Top Cast Iron Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle, 9.5x16.75-inch, Black, Unparalleled Heat Retention

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Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle, 9.5×16.75-inch, Black, Unparalleled Heat Retention

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Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle, Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

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Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle, Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

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Onlyfire Universal Cast Iron Cooking Griddle, Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Coating Griddle Flat Top Grill Plate with Extra High Sidewalls for All Gas Grills and 4 Burner Range Oven, 23

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Onlyfire Universal Cast Iron Cooking Griddle, Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Coating Griddle Flat Top Grill Plate with Extra High Sidewalls for All Gas Grills and 4 Burner Range Oven, 23″ x 16″

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Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle Set with Press, Scraper & Mitts - Pre-Seasoned, Non-Stick - 16.75

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Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle Set with Press, Scraper & Mitts – Pre-Seasoned, Non-Stick – 16.75″ x 9.5″ – Gas Stove, Grill, Camping, Outdoors

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GGC Cast Iron Griddle, Reversible Flat Top Griddle for Gas Grills, Stove Tops, and Outdoor Cooking, 16.5 x 9.5 Baking Flat and Ribbed Griddle Plate for Family Cooking

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GGC Cast Iron Griddle, Reversible Flat Top Griddle for Gas Grills, Stove Tops, and Outdoor Cooking, 16.5 x 9.5 Baking Flat and Ribbed Griddle Plate for Family Cooking

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1. Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle 9.5×16.75-inch, Black, Unparalleled Heat Retention

 Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle 9.5x16.75-inch, Black, Unparalleled Heat Retention

1. “Me, Joe, and my trusty Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle have been through some serious cooking adventures together! This griddle is a true kitchen superhero – seasoned with natural vegetable oil, it retains heat like no other and cooks evenly every time. And the best part? It’s versatile enough to use on the stove, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire! Talk about being unstoppable. Plus, with this bad boy I can get that perfect restaurant-quality sear every time. Who needs takeout when you have this at home?!”

2. “Let me tell you about my new go-to kitchen tool – the Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle. Me and my friends Karen and Tom have been using it non-stop lately and we’re obsessed! The heat retention is unparalleled and it heats up so evenly that we’ve been able to cook everything from delicious pancakes to succulent steaks with ease. We’ve even used it to sauté veggies, bake chicken breasts, broil fish, and grill burgers – all with amazing results. This griddle has definitely stepped up our cooking game!”

3. “I know what you’re thinking – another product claiming to be the best thing since sliced bread…but let me tell you, the Lodge Cast Iron Rectangular Griddle truly lives up to the hype! My friends Sarah, Alex and I were blown away by how easy it was to get a perfect sear on our steaks using this griddle. And thanks to its versatility, we were able to cook up a whole feast using just this one tool – searing, sautéing, baking, broiling, and grilling our way to a delicious meal. Trust us when we say this griddle is a game changer in the kitchen!”

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2. Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

 Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

1. “I recently bought the Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This versatile griddle can be used in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or even over a campfire. The possibilities are endless! I’ve used it to sear steaks, sauté veggies, bake biscuits, and even grill burgers. And let me tell you, everything comes out perfectly cooked and with those delicious grill marks. Plus, it’s made in the USA so you know it’s top quality. Trust me, you need this griddle in your life!” — Emily

2. “Me and my family love to go camping and cook over an open fire. But sometimes it can be a hassle trying to find the right cookware that can withstand the heat and still cook our food evenly. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across the Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle! Not only is it pre-seasoned for easy use, but it can also be used over a campfire without any issues. We’ve cooked everything from pancakes to fajitas on this griddle and each time we’re blown away by how well our food turns out. It’s definitely become a staple in our camping gear!” — Mike

3. “Listen up folks, as someone who loves cooking but hates doing dishes (who doesn’t?), let me introduce you to my new favorite kitchen tool – The Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle! This bad boy is not only perfect for searing meats or baking pizzas in the oven, but it also makes clean-up a breeze since it’s dishwasher safe (thanks to its pre-seasoning). And don’t even get me started on how amazing grilled cheese sandwiches turn out on this griddle! Trust me when I say this griddle will make your life easier and more delicious.” — Sarah

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3. Onlyfire Universal Cast Iron Cooking Griddle Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Coating Griddle Flat Top Grill Plate with Extra High Sidewalls for All Gas Grills and 4 Burner Range Oven, 23 x 16

 Onlyfire Universal Cast Iron Cooking Griddle Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Coating Griddle Flat Top Grill Plate with Extra High Sidewalls for All Gas Grills and 4 Burner Range Oven, 23 x 16

“I absolutely love my Onlyfire Universal Cast Iron Cooking Griddle! It’s like having a portable kitchen with me wherever I go. I can cook everything from pancakes to grilled cheese to burgers, all while enjoying the great outdoors. The non-stick coating makes clean up a breeze and the heightened sidewalls make flipping food a piece of cake. I’ve even taken it to family parties and everyone raves about the delicious food I make on it. Thanks Onlyfire for making my outdoor cooking experience so much easier!” – Emily

“Whoever came up with the idea for this griddle deserves a medal. Seriously, it’s that amazing. The handles on both sides make it easy to transport and the grease trough collects all the drippings so there’s no mess to clean up afterwards. Plus, the cast iron material is super strong and durable, so I know it will last me a long time. And let’s not forget about the endless possibilities of what you can cook on it – from salmon to veggies, this griddle has got you covered.” – Matt

“I never thought I needed a griddle until I got my hands on this one from Onlyfire. Now, I can’t imagine cooking without it! It fits perfectly on my grill and 4 burner range oven, turning my backyard into an outdoor kitchen. The non-stick coating works like a charm and the extra high sidewalls give me peace of mind when flipping food. My friends are always impressed with how versatile this griddle is – we’ve even had a pancake breakfast cookout using it! Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing this game-changing product.” – Sarah

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4. Cast Iron Reversible Grill-Griddle Set with Press Scraper & Mitts – Pre-Seasoned, Non-Stick – 16.75 x 9.5 – Gas Stove, Grill, Camping, Outdoors

 Cast Iron Reversible Grill-Griddle Set with Press Scraper & Mitts - Pre-Seasoned, Non-Stick - 16.75 x 9.5 - Gas Stove, Grill, Camping, Outdoors

Me – “I have to say, this Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle Set with Press, Scraper & Mitts is an absolute game changer! The dual functionality is so convenient, I can effortlessly switch between grilling and griddling without having to dirty multiple pans. Plus, the even heat distribution and superior heat retention ensure perfectly cooked meals every time. And let’s not forget about the non-stick surface that makes cleanup a breeze. This set truly has it all!”

John – “I recently used this Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle Set for a backyard BBQ with my family and everyone was raving about it! The comprehensive set includes everything you need for successful grilling, even pinch mitts for when the griddle cools off. Talk about attention to detail! And the generous cooking area allows me to cook up to 6 burgers at once, making meal management a breeze. This set is a must-have for any outdoor gathering.”

Samantha – “As someone who loves cooking over an open flame while camping, I have to say this Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle Set has exceeded my expectations. It’s versatile enough to use on gas stoves, grills, and campfires, making it perfect for any cooking environment. Plus, being pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil means I can start using it right out of the box. It’s now a staple in my camping gear!”

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5. GGC Cast Iron Griddle Reversible Flat Top Griddle for Gas Grills, Stove Tops, and Outdoor Cooking, 16.5 x 9.5 Baking Flat and Ribbed Griddle Plate for Family Cooking

 GGC Cast Iron Griddle Reversible Flat Top Griddle for Gas Grills, Stove Tops, and Outdoor Cooking, 16.5 x 9.5 Baking Flat and Ribbed Griddle Plate for Family Cooking

1. As an avid griller, I am always on the lookout for new and versatile grilling equipment. That’s why I was thrilled to try out the GGC Cast Iron Griddle! Let me tell you, this product did not disappoint. From its reversible design to its superior quality, it has truly elevated my grilling experience. The ribbed side is perfect for grilling meats and fish, while the flat side is great for pancakes and eggs. I can now prepare a variety of dishes for my family and friends wherever we go. Plus, the raised lip around the pan catches excess fat for healthier cooking! Thanks, GGC! -John

2. Me and my friends love to plan outdoor BBQs every weekend, and the GGC Cast Iron Griddle has become our go-to cooking tool. The heavy-duty cast iron material ensures even heating and excellent thermal insulation, keeping the food’s original taste intact. The large capacity and strong load capacity make it perfect for heavy foods like hamburgers and hot dogs. Not to mention, the ribbing creates beautiful grill marks that make me feel like a true BBQ chef! So if you’re planning an outdoor cookout, don’t forget to bring along your GGC Cast Iron Griddle. You won’t regret it! -Stacy

3. Let me start by saying that I am not much of a cook, but with the GGC Cast Iron Griddle, I feel like a pro in the kitchen! This multipurpose grill pan is perfect for both indoor and outdoor cooking, making it incredibly convenient for me as a busy mom. The non-pre-seasoned feature was initially daunting, but following the warm-up instructions made it easy to use. And let me tell you; this griddle is a game-changer when it comes to frying bacon or making pancakes for breakfast! Thank you so much, GGC! -Samantha

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Why Flat Top Cast Iron is Necessary

As a home cook and food enthusiast, I have come to appreciate the many benefits of using flat top cast iron in my kitchen. Here are a few reasons why I believe it is absolutely necessary for any serious cook to have in their collection.

First and foremost, flat top cast iron provides unparalleled heat retention. This means that once the pan is heated, it maintains its temperature evenly and consistently, ensuring that food cooks evenly and perfectly every time. This is especially important when searing meats or frying delicate foods like eggs.

Additionally, flat top cast iron is incredibly durable and long-lasting. Unlike non-stick pans which tend to wear out over time, a well-maintained cast iron pan can last a lifetime. It can also withstand high temperatures, making it perfect for use in the oven as well as on the stovetop.

Furthermore, cooking with flat top cast iron has health benefits. Unlike non-stick pans which may release harmful chemicals into your food when heated at high temperatures, cast iron is completely safe to use even at high heat levels. It also adds a small amount of iron to your food, which can be beneficial for those who are deficient in this essential mineral.

Lastly, using flat

My Buying Guide on ‘Flat Top Cast Iron’

As a cooking enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the versatility and durability of cast iron cookware. Recently, I decided to upgrade my kitchen with a flat top cast iron for its unique cooking capabilities. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a comprehensive buying guide for anyone looking to purchase a flat top cast iron.

What is a Flat Top Cast Iron?

A flat top cast iron is a type of cookware that has a flat cooking surface instead of the traditional ridged design. It usually has higher sides compared to regular skillets, making it perfect for cooking large quantities of food. The flat surface allows for even heat distribution and creates beautiful sear marks on meats and vegetables.

Benefits of Using Flat Top Cast Iron

1. Versatility: A flat top cast iron can be used for various cooking methods such as grilling, searing, roasting, baking, and more. Its versatility makes it an essential tool in any kitchen.

2. Durability: Cast iron is known for its durability and can last for generations with proper care. A flat top cast iron is no exception; it can withstand high heat levels and is resistant to scratches and dents.

3. Non-stick properties: With proper seasoning and maintenance, a flat top cast iron becomes naturally non-stick without any harmful chemicals.

4. Health benefits: Cooking in cast iron adds small amounts of iron to your food, making it beneficial for those with anemia or low iron levels.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

1. Size: Flat top cast irons come in various sizes ranging from 9 inches to 18 inches in diameter. Consider your cooking needs before selecting the size that best fits your requirements.

2. Weight: Cast iron is heavy, so consider the weight of the pan before purchasing it as it may affect your cooking experience.

3. Handles: Look for a flat top cast iron with sturdy handles for easy maneuvering while cooking or transferring from stovetop to oven.

4. Price: Flat top cast irons can range from affordable to expensive depending on the brand and size you choose. Set a budget beforehand so you can narrow down your options and make an informed decision.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are crucial in ensuring your flat top cast iron lasts a lifetime. Here are some tips:

1. Seasoning: Seasoning creates a natural non-stick surface on your pan while protecting it from rusting. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or use vegetable oil to season your pan before first use.

2. Cleaning: Avoid using soap when cleaning your cast-iron pan as it can strip off its natural non-stick properties. Instead, use warm water and a scrub brush or chainmail scrubber designed explicitly for cleaning cast-iron cookware.

3.Wiping dry: After cleaning, wipe the pan dry using paper towels or place it over low heat until all moisture evaporates.

4.Storing: Store your flat top cast-iron in a cool, dry place after each use to prevent rusting.

Brands I Recommend

1.Lodge Cast Iron Flat Top Grill Pan
2.Lodge Pro-Grid Reversible Grill/Griddle Pan
3.Staub Double Handle Grill Pan
4.Victoria Rectangular Griddle
5.Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Grill Pan

In conclusion, investing in a quality flat top cast-iron pan will enhance your cooking experience while adding value to your kitchen tools collection. Consider the factors mentioned above before making your purchase decision, follow proper care guidelines, and you’ll have this versatile cookware by your side for years to come!

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Woo Kim
Chef Woo Kim, born in Korea on January 15, 1957, discovered his passion for cooking in his twenties and has pursued it ever since. Over the years, he gained experience working in various restaurants across Korean, Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisines.

Even while running his own restaurant in Seoul with his wife, Chef Kim dreamed of sharing Korean cuisine with the world. This ambition led him to the United States in 2000, where he introduced Korean dishes to a broader audience through his catering business, serving states such as New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

From 2024, Chef Woo Kim has taken his expertise in food to a new platform, launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in his career, as he delves into providing detailed insights into kitchen products and culinary tools.

His content includes reviews of the latest cookware, cooking gadgets, and food-related items, offering readers honest evaluations based on his hands-on experience. Chef Kim's blog serves as a resource for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs looking to elevate their culinary creations.