Calphalon Aluminum Nonstick Square Grill Pan

Grill pans are an excellent cooking tool that will help you get the sear you’re looking for, even if you need to prepare a meal indoors. In fact, our resident culinary expert and the co-chair of the International Association of Culinary Professionals Julie Chernoff says: “Grill pans are just the thing when it’s too cold or rainy to head out to your outdoor grill, or if you just have a small amount to grill.”

Did you know that one of the first known meals cooked barbecue-style was mammoth ribs? It’s true! Archaeologists actually uncovered an old cooking pit back in 2009. While it’s safe to say you won’t be grilling mammoth for your family, you’ll most likely be preparing some kind of meat as the main course for your meal.

When you begin your search for the best grill pan, take a look at the materials used for construction.

“I prefer cast iron grill pans, as they retain heat better than stainless steel, and although heavier than stainless, are far better at mimicking the classic grill grates in terms of grill marks on your meats and veggies,” says Chernoff.

The Lodge Pro-Grid Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is an excellent choice, as it features a grill on one side and a griddle on the other. It’s also pre-seasoned and able to distribute heat evenly across the pan.

Another option is a grill pan made using a heavy gauge aluminum, like the Calphalon Aluminum Nonstick Square Grill Pan. When you go this route, you’ll need to make sure the pan has a nonstick coating. The Calphalon has not one, but three layers of nonstick coating. You won’t have any trouble with food sticking to the pan with this model.

Next, you’ll want to consider the pan’s shape.

“As far as shape, I recommend the square or rectangular grill pan, as they have more surface area than a round or oval pan,” says Chernoff.

She goes on to point out that “the larger rectangular pans will cover two burners.” That makes them an excellent choice when cooking for a big family.

According to Chernoff, “the smaller, one-burner grill pans will have a handle, and the longer, the better. Those pans get hot and stay hot! This will, of course, make the pan heavier, so you will need a helper handle on the opposite side of the pan from the long handle, to make it easier to maneuver.” In addition to a long handle, Chernoff recommends choosing a pan with “nice deep ridges that will keep your food out of the grease that drips off during cooking.” The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic 12-Inch Round Grill Pan has a tapered drip-free rim that makes it a cinch to collect and pour out drippings.

Of course, there are also grill pans out there that are meant to be used just once. The disposable Weber Small Aluminum Drip Pans, for example, can be used with select grills to catch drippings, or used to prepare veggies or casseroles for a family picnic.

• Review any guarantees or warranties offered by the company. You may be pleasantly surprised to discover that some models actually come with a lifetime warranty.
• Make sure the grill pan you’re interested in fits your needs. Can it be used indoors on an oven, a grill or a stove? Can it be used outdoors on a grill or over a campfire?
• Check to see if the grill pan is dishwasher safe. Some models are and some aren’t. Those that must be washed by hand are easier to clean if they have been given time to soak in a dishpan of hot soapy water. Should you have any tough stuck-on foods to contend with, use baking soda and a non-abrasive sponge to remove them.
• Look to see whether your grill pan can be used with an induction cooktop. Some models aren’t compatible with induction cooking.
• Certain grill pans are not safe for use with metal utensils, as they may pull up the nonstick surface or causes scratches. It’s best to stick with wooden or plastic utensils.
• Check to make sure the product is PFOE free. You don’t want to chance harmful chemicals leaking into your grilled meals and veggies.
• Always review the maximum temperature the pan can be exposed to, as higher heats may cause the grill pans to crack. Many will list that they are oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit on their product packaging.
• Consider grill pans that come with a weighted press. This will allow you to cook bacon evenly or make a delicious panini sandwich.
• When it comes to price, you must take into consideration the material used to construct the pan, as well as the pan’s size. The Lodge Pro-Grid Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is priced higher than the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic 12-Inch Round Grill Pan and the Calphalon Aluminum Nonstick Square Grill Pan, as they are made out of aluminum and it is made out of a more durable cast iron. The Lodge grill pan also spans the length of two burners. On the lower end of the price range, you have the Weber Small Aluminum Drip Pans, which are made for one-time use only.