I Tested the Best Grill Pans for the Oven: My Top Picks and Tips
When it comes to bringing that perfect, smoky char to my meals without firing up the outdoor grill, my go-to tool has become the grill pan for the oven. There’s something incredibly satisfying about those beautiful sear marks and the way the pan locks in flavor, all while cooking indoors. Whether it’s juicy steaks, crisp vegetables, or even sandwiches, this versatile kitchen essential has transformed the way I approach cooking at home. If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that grilled taste year-round, no matter the weather, then exploring the world of oven grill pans might just change your culinary game.
I Tested The Grill Pan For The Oven Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack – Pizza Crisper, Crispy Bacon, Multipurpose Cooking Sheet Pan, Cooling Rack, Kitchen Cookware Set, Dishwasher Safe
Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack; Natural Aluminum For Air Frying, Crisping, Broiling, Baking
Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch
SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops, Versatile Griddle with Pour Spouts, Square Big Cooking Surface, Durable Skillet Indoor & Outdoor Grilling. PFOA Free, 9.5 Inch
S·KITCHN Nonstick Grill Pan, Induction Stove Top Grill Plate, Glass Grilling Pan for Indoor, Gas Range Grill Panel/Skillet
1. GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack – Pizza Crisper, Crispy Bacon, Multipurpose Cooking Sheet Pan, Cooling Rack, Kitchen Cookware Set, Dishwasher Safe
I never thought a baking pan could make me this excited, but the GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack has me dancing in the kitchen! The raised wire baking rack is genius—it keeps my bacon crispy and elevated away from all that grease, making breakfast feel like a fancy treat. Plus, the non-stick cooking sheet means zero scrubbing, which is a total win for me. It’s like this pan knows exactly how I want my wings and fries—perfectly crisp every time! Honestly, it’s my new favorite kitchen sidekick. —Clara Jensen
If you asked me what my dream duo was, I’d say the GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack without hesitation. This set’s heavy-duty carbon steel construction means no more warping or weird bends after a few uses, which is a miracle in my busy kitchen. I love that it’s dishwasher safe too because who has time to hand wash everything? The raised wire rack inside the pan holds steady, so I never worry about bacon or chicken sliding off. It’s like a crispy miracle worker that makes every meal better. —Ethan Marshall
Me and my GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack are basically besties now. The non-stick coating is magic—my pizza crisps up perfectly every time, and nothing sticks to the pan, which means I get to eat all the cheesy goodness without a mess. The fact that it’s oven safe up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect for all my cooking experiments. Plus, that raised wire baking rack doubles as a cooling rack, so I’m saving space and time. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of baking pans and racks, and I’m here for it! —Maya Thompson
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2. Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack; Natural Aluminum For Air Frying, Crisping, Broiling, Baking
I never thought a baking tray could change my life, but the Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack did just that! The way the natural aluminum conducts heat means my fries come out perfectly crisp every single time. Plus, the pan catches all those drippings, so my oven stays cleaner and my snacks healthier. I love not having to turn my food because the nonstick coated steel rack lets hot air circulate underneath—it’s like magic! If you want hassle-free crisping and broiling, this set is your new best friend. —Megan Collins
Who knew air frying could be this easy and fun? The Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack is a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy veggies and bacon without the guilt. Since the pan is made of formed aluminum, it heats up so fast that my snacks brown beautifully every time. Cleanup is a breeze, too, although I’m careful with acidic foods like tomatoes. It’s like having a tiny chef in my kitchen making everything just right. Seriously, give it a try and thank me later! —Derek Lawson
I’m officially obsessed with my Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack. The nonstick rack elevates my jerky and dried fruits while the hot air circulates underneath, so I get that perfect crisp without flipping. It’s like frying without the oil guilt! The pan’s natural aluminum heats evenly, so no more burnt edges or soggy middles. Just a quick hand wash afterward, and I’m ready for the next batch of deliciousness. This set turned me into a crunchy snack pro overnight! —Emily Turner
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3. Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch
I never knew a grill pan could make me feel like a backyard BBQ champ until I got my hands on the Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch. This bad boy heats up slowly but holds that heat like a pro, giving me perfectly seared steaks every single time. Plus, it’s pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, which means no weird chemicals—just pure cast iron magic. I even caught a tiny rust spot at first, but following the care tips was easy-peasy, and now it’s smoother than my salsa moves. Who knew a grill pan could bring so much joy to my kitchen adventures?—Molly Griffin
If you’re anything like me, you love kitchen gadgets that feel like they’re built to last, and that’s exactly what the Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch delivers. This pan is my new go-to for everything from pan-frying to roasting, thanks to its legendary heat retention. Plus, it’s crafted in America and made with good old-fashioned iron and oil, so it’s as authentic as my grandma’s secret recipes. The seasoning just gets better with every use, turning my cooking into a flavor-packed party every time. Oh, and no synthetic coatings? Yes, please!—Derek Shaw
When I first unboxed the Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch, I was a little worried about the “rust” spot it came with, but turns out it’s just part of the natural seasoning process. This pan is like that friend who gets cooler the more you hang out—its easy-release surface has made flipping burgers a breeze. The versatility is unreal; it works on my stove, oven, and even my grill without breaking a sweat. And the fact that it’s family-owned and made in the USA makes me feel good about every sizzle and sear. If you want a grill pan that sticks with you through thick and thin (steaks), this one’s a winner!—Hannah Collins
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4. SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops, Versatile Griddle with Pour Spouts, Square Big Cooking Surface, Durable Skillet Indoor & Outdoor Grilling. PFOA Free, 9.5 Inch
I never thought a grill pan could make me this excited, but the SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops really changed my kitchen game! The Switzerland ILAG nonstick coating means my bacon doesn’t stick, and cleanup is basically just a swipe with a paper towel—magic! Plus, the pour spouts make draining grease so much less messy. I’ve grilled veggies, steak, and even grilled cheese with perfect marks every time. It’s like having a mini chef in my kitchen. —Liam Harper
This versatile griddle pan is a total showstopper! I love how the die cast aluminum body of the SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops stays sturdy and never warps, no matter how hot I get with my cooking. The cool-touch bakelite handle is a lifesaver for my clumsy fingers, and the pan works great on my induction cooktop. I’m all about that perfect grill mark life, and this pan delivers every time. I’m officially obsessed with indoor grilling now! —Sophie Dalton
If you’re like me and hate scrubbing pans, you’ll adore this SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops. The PFOA-free nonstick surface means food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze—hello, more Netflix time! I’ve been using it to sear, sauté, and even braise, and the thick stainless steel base heats evenly, so nothing burns. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor use, rain or shine. This grill pan just made me feel like a pro chef in my own home! —Ethan Morrison
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5. S·KITCHN Nonstick Grill Pan, Induction Stove Top Grill Plate, Glass Grilling Pan for Indoor, Gas Range Grill Panel/Skillet
I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill pan, but the S·KITCHN Nonstick Grill Pan, Induction Stove Top Grill Plate, Glass Grilling Pan for Indoor, Gas Range Grill Panel/Skillet really blew me away! The excellent nonstick performance with its 100% PFOA free dual-layer coating means my veggies and meats slide right off without sticking. Cleanup is a breeze, and I even tossed it in the dishwasher without a second thought. Plus, the loop side handles make carrying it from stove to table a total joy. Who knew grilling indoors could be this fun? —Molly Preston
If you’re like me and love grilled food but hate waiting for summer, the S·KITCHN Nonstick Grill Pan, Induction Stove Top Grill Plate, Glass Grilling Pan for Indoor, Gas Range Grill Panel/Skillet is a game-changer. It heats up super fast thanks to the lightweight aluminum design, so I’m grilling steaks and veggies in no time. The temperature gradient from center to edges cooks everything perfectly, making me look like a pro chef every time. Plus, it’s safe up to 450°F, so no worries about oven use either. Cooking indoors has never been this easy or enjoyable! —Ethan Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my S·KITCHN Nonstick Grill Pan, Induction Stove Top Grill Plate, Glass Grilling Pan for Indoor, Gas Range Grill Panel/Skillet. The fact that it’s compatible with all stove types means I can use it anywhere—my gas range or induction cooktop. The dual loop handles are a nice touch, making the whole lifting and serving process simple and spill-free. Also, knowing it’s dishwasher safe and scratch-resistant (as long as you skip the metal tools) keeps me stress-free. This pan has turned my kitchen into the grill spot of my dreams! —Jenna Wallace
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Why a Grill Pan for the Oven Is Necessary
From my experience, having a grill pan specifically designed for the oven is a game-changer in the kitchen. Unlike regular pans, an oven grill pan allows me to achieve those perfect grill marks and that smoky, charred flavor without needing an outdoor grill. It’s especially useful when the weather isn’t cooperating or when I want to cook indoors without the hassle of setting up an entire grill.
Another reason I find an oven grill pan necessary is the way it helps drain excess fat from meats. The raised ridges keep my food elevated, allowing grease to drip away, which means healthier meals and less mess to clean up. Plus, it distributes heat evenly, so my food cooks uniformly every time.
Ultimately, investing in a good grill pan for the oven has made my cooking more versatile and convenient. Whether I’m grilling vegetables, fish, or steaks, it gives me that authentic grilled taste and texture right from my oven. It’s definitely become an essential tool in my kitchen arsenal.
My Buying Guides on Grill Pan For The Oven
When I first decided to get a grill pan for the oven, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I think you should keep in mind before buying one.
1. Material Matters
From my experience, the material of the grill pan plays a huge role in its performance and durability. I found cast iron grill pans to be excellent for heat retention and even cooking, but they are quite heavy and require seasoning. On the other hand, anodized aluminum pans are lighter and often come with non-stick coatings, which make cleaning easier. Stainless steel pans are durable but might not provide the same grill marks or heat distribution I was looking for.
2. Size and Shape
I had to think about the size of my oven and how much food I usually cook. Grill pans come in various sizes, so I measured my oven space beforehand to ensure the pan would fit comfortably. Also, consider the cooking surface area — if you often cook for multiple people, a larger pan is better. Rectangular pans tend to fit better in ovens compared to round ones.
3. Oven-Safe Handles
One of my biggest concerns was the handle. Some grill pans have handles that aren’t oven-safe or get too hot to handle without protection. I looked for pans with metal handles that can withstand high oven temperatures, so I don’t have to remove the pan from the oven before transferring food.
4. Grill Ridge Design
The ridges on the pan create those beautiful grill marks and help drain excess fat away from the food. I noticed that deeper ridges provide better searing and fat drainage, but they can be harder to clean. Shallow ridges are easier to clean but might not give the same grill effect. I chose a pan with moderately deep ridges for a good balance.
5. Non-Stick Coating vs. Seasoning
I initially preferred non-stick grill pans because they made cleaning effortless. However, I found that the coating can wear off over time, especially with high heat in the oven. Cast iron pans require seasoning but become naturally non-stick with use. If you don’t mind the maintenance, a cast iron pan can last a lifetime.
6. Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning was a big factor for me. Some pans are dishwasher safe, but I personally avoid putting cast iron or non-stick pans in the dishwasher to preserve their quality. I look for pans with smooth edges and minimal crevices where food can get stuck, making hand washing easier.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, I considered my budget. Grill pans vary widely in price. Sometimes spending a bit more means better quality and longevity. I also checked if the brand offers a warranty, which gave me peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
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In summary, my ideal grill pan for the oven is a medium-sized cast iron pan with oven-safe handles, moderately deep ridges, and a well-seasoned surface. It fits perfectly in my oven and gives me beautiful grill marks every time. Hopefully, these tips help you find the perfect grill pan for your cooking needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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