Imagine sinking your teeth into a burger so juicy and flavorful, with crispy, caramelized edges that just melt in your mouth. That’s the magic of a smash burger, and the secret weapon behind it? A cast iron griddle.
But with so many cast iron griddles out there, how do you pick the one that will turn your backyard into a burger paradise? It can feel overwhelming, right? You want the perfect sear, even heat, and a griddle that lasts. You might be wondering if one is really better than another, or if you’re just wasting your money.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a cast iron griddle perfect for smashing burgers. You’ll learn what features to look for, what to avoid, and how to get the most out of your new cooking surface. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the right griddle to create those epic smash burgers every single time.
Our Top 5 Cast Iron Griddle For Smash Burgers Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cast Iron Griddle For Smash Burgers Detailed Reviews
1. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove
Rating: 8.9/10
The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s pre-seasoned and ready for all your cooking adventures. You can use it on your stove, grill, or even a campfire. This heavy-duty cookware is made in the USA and built to last for many years.
What We Like:
- It’s PFAS-free and non-toxic, meaning it’s safe for your family.
- The double-burner size gives you plenty of room to cook.
- You get two cooking surfaces in one: a grill and a griddle.
- It works on any cooktop, including induction, and can go in the oven or over a campfire.
- Lodge is a family-owned business that has been making quality cookware since 1896.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might be a bit tricky to move around.
- It requires proper care and seasoning to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick qualities.
This versatile grill/griddle offers amazing cooking flexibility. It’s a durable, high-quality piece that will serve your family for generations.
2. Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle
Rating: 9.0/10
If you love to cook, you’ll want to check out the Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle. This griddle is made from strong cast iron. It comes ready to use because it’s seasoned with natural vegetable oil. This makes it easy to get your food off the griddle. The cast iron heats up evenly and keeps that heat. This means your pancakes will be golden brown and your bacon will be crispy all over. It’s tough and can go almost anywhere you want to cook.
What We Like:
- The easy-release finish makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.
- Cast iron provides amazing heat retention for perfectly cooked food every time.
- It heats evenly, so you don’t have hot spots.
- The signature teardrop handle is comfortable to hold.
- You can use it in so many places: oven, stove, grill, and even over a campfire!
- It’s proudly made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might not be the best for people who need something lightweight.
- It needs a little care to keep it seasoned and rust-free.
This griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s built to last and makes cooking a joy.
3. Firsgrill Burger Press 7.08″ Round
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Firsgrill Burger Press, your new best friend for achieving perfectly smashed burgers and evenly cooked bacon. This heavy-duty cast iron press is designed to make your grilling and griddling experiences easier and more delicious, turning your backyard cookouts into restaurant-quality feasts.
What We Like:
- Made from food-grade cast iron, it’s a safe and durable choice, free from harmful chemicals.
- The equalized weight distribution ensures fantastic grill marks every time, making your food look as good as it tastes.
- It speeds up cooking time, meaning less waiting and more eating, especially when you’re entertaining.
- The stay-cool wood handle keeps your hands safe, so you can press and lift with confidence without needing extra gloves.
- It’s built tough, like the commercial-grade accessories used by professional griddle masters.
- The cast iron can be seasoned, just like a skillet, to create a natural non-stick surface.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being heavy-duty cast iron, it requires proper seasoning and care to prevent rust.
- While the wood handle is great, it might not be completely heat-proof if left directly over extreme heat for extended periods.
This Firsgrill Burger Press is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves grilling and wants to elevate their burger game. It’s a simple yet effective way to achieve professional results at home.
4. Cuisinart 6.5″ Cast Iron Smashed Burger Press
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to make the best smashed burgers of your life with the Cuisinart 6.5″ Cast Iron Smashed Burger Press. This tool is your secret weapon for achieving that perfect, crispy crust and juicy flavor that smash burger lovers crave. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ or tailgating with friends, this burger press will become your go-to accessory.
What We Like:
- HEAVY-DUTY CAST IRON: The 6.5-inch cast iron press is built tough. It applies even pressure, helping you create burgers that are incredibly juicy and packed with flavor every single time.
- PERFECT SMASH BURGER CRUST: The flat edge is designed to give you those delicious, crispy, caramelized edges. It’s what makes a smash burger taste like a classic smash burger.
- VERSATILE SMASHING: You can use this press on almost any cooking surface. It works great on griddles, in skillets, and on grills, making it perfect for cooking at home or on your outdoor adventures.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Cleaning up after cooking is a breeze. Just wash it by hand with warm water and a little mild soap. It’s a quick and simple way to get it ready for your next burger creation.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cast iron is great for heat retention, it does add some weight, which might make it slightly less convenient for very quick, on-the-go use compared to lighter materials.
- For those who prefer to toss their cooking tools in the dishwasher, this press requires hand-washing, which is an extra step.
This Cuisinart burger press delivers fantastic results for anyone serious about making great smash burgers. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference in your burger-making game.
5. EWFEN Burger Press
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with the EWFEN Burger Press. This heavy-duty cast iron press is designed to help you create perfectly cooked burgers, bacon, and sandwiches, whether you’re in your kitchen or out at a campfire.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong, food-grade cast iron. You can use it on the oven, stove, grill, griddle, or even a campfire.
- The wooden handle stays cool and is comfortable to hold. It’s attached very securely.
- It helps food cook faster by pressing out extra grease and fat. This also makes your food healthier.
- The grooved bottom gives your food nice grill marks and stops bacon from curling.
- It works on many different cooking surfaces, like grills, griddles, and even induction stoves. You can use it for burgers, bacon, sandwiches, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might not be ideal for everyone.
- While it can be seasoned for a non-stick surface, it requires proper care to prevent rust.
This EWFEN Burger Press is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves to grill or cook indoors. It makes cooking easier and helps you achieve delicious, restaurant-quality results every time.
Your Guide to the Best Cast Iron Griddle for Smash Burgers
Smash burgers are amazing. They have crispy edges and a juicy center. A cast iron griddle is the best tool for making them. It gets super hot. This heat creates that perfect crust. This guide will help you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a cast iron griddle, keep these things in mind.
- Size Matters: Think about how many burgers you want to make at once. Griddles come in many sizes. A larger griddle is good for parties. A smaller one works well for a few people.
- Even Heating: A good griddle heats up evenly. This means your burgers cook the same everywhere. No burnt spots or undercooked parts.
- High Sides (or Not): Some griddles have raised edges. These help keep grease from splattering. Others are flat. Flat ones make it easy to slide burgers off.
- Handles: Sturdy handles are important. Cast iron is heavy. Good handles make it safe to move the griddle.
- Pre-seasoned: Many cast iron griddles come “pre-seasoned.” This means they have a layer of oil cooked onto them. It helps prevent sticking and rust.
Important Materials
Cast iron is the star here.
- Cast Iron: This is a strong metal. It holds heat really well. It gets very hot, which is perfect for smashing burgers. Cast iron can last a lifetime if you take care of it.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a griddle great or not so great?
- Thickness: A thicker griddle heats more evenly. It also holds heat better. This is a big plus for smash burgers. Thin griddles can get hot spots. They might not hold heat as well.
- Seasoning: A well-seasoned griddle is smooth. It’s less likely to stick. A poorly seasoned griddle can be rough. Food might stick to it. You can always season a griddle yourself.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making good cast iron. Read reviews from other cooks. They can tell you a lot about quality.
- Warping: A bad griddle might warp. This means it bends or becomes uneven. It will not sit flat on your heat source. This is a sign of low quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a cast iron griddle is simple.
- Getting Started: Always preheat your griddle slowly. This helps it heat evenly.
- Cooking: Place your burger ball on the hot griddle. Smash it down with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and crispy. Flip and cook the other side.
- Cleaning: Let the griddle cool a bit. Scrape off any stuck-on bits with a spatula. Rinse with hot water. Never use soap on cast iron. Dry it right away. A light coat of oil after drying helps prevent rust.
- Versatility: You can use your cast iron griddle for more than just smash burgers. Cook bacon, eggs, pancakes, or grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s a kitchen workhorse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to season a cast iron griddle?
A: You can season it by rubbing a thin layer of cooking oil all over it. Then, bake it in a hot oven for an hour. Let it cool. Repeat this a few times for the best results.
Q: Can I use a cast iron griddle on an electric stove?
A: Yes, you can. Cast iron works on electric stoves. It also works on gas stoves and even over a campfire.
Q: How do I prevent my smash burgers from sticking?
A: Make sure your griddle is hot before you add the burgers. Also, ensure it is well-seasoned. A little oil on the griddle can help too.
Q: Is it okay to use metal utensils on a cast iron griddle?
A: Yes, metal spatulas are fine for cast iron. They are strong enough to smash burgers and scrape the griddle clean.
Q: How long do cast iron griddles last?
A: With proper care, a cast iron griddle can last for generations. They are very durable.
Q: Why does my cast iron griddle rust?
A: Rust happens when cast iron is left wet or not properly dried and oiled after cleaning. Always dry it thoroughly and apply a thin oil coating.
Q: Can I put my cast iron griddle in the dishwasher?
A: No, never put cast iron in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents will strip away the seasoning and cause rust.
Q: What is “seasoning” in cast iron?
A: Seasoning is a layer of polymerized oil baked onto the cast iron. It creates a non-stick surface and protects it from rust.
Q: How hot should my griddle be for smash burgers?
A: You want it very hot, around 450-500°F (230-260°C). This high heat creates the signature crust.
Q: What is the difference between a cast iron griddle and a cast iron skillet?
A: A griddle is usually flat or has very low sides. A skillet has deeper sides, like a pan. Griddles are better for cooking many items at once, like smash burgers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.