MasterPan Aluminum Nonstick Grill Pan, 12-Inch

There’s just something about a nice set of grill marks that makes food more appetizing. For that reason alone, it’s great to have a grill pan around. Essentially, it’s a pan with raised ridges that deliver the same effect on cooked meat as an outdoor grill might.

Of course, grill pans are useful for more than cosmetic reasons. The ridges also allow grease to drip away from the meat, making it healthier. But there’s a lot more to consider than the look of those ridges when buying a nonstick grill pan.

Primarily, you’ll want to consider the material. Nonstick pans, with grill capabilities or otherwise, are typically made of either cast iron or stainless steel.

Cast iron is more prevalent, especially among grill pans. It further replicates the effect of an outdoor grill, since cast iron holds heat very effectively. It’s also incredibly durable and resistant to oven temperatures. There is some upkeep involved, though. You’ll want to season any bare cast iron cookware by searing a thin layer of oil onto it in the oven. Some grill pans do come pre-seasoned, however, which can save you that initial step.

Some cast-iron pans have a layer of enamel that mitigates some of cast iron’s quirks without affecting its heat retention capabilities. Soap will strip away some of the seasoning on bare cast iron, but it won’t affect enamel at all. Not only are they easier to clean, but enameled pans tend to be more colorful and stylish.

Cast iron can be heavy, though, which makes stainless steel a good option for some home chefs. It might not hold the heat quite as well, but the difference can be moot at lower temperatures. Make sure the nonstick coating is reliable, though: Burnt oil can sear onto stainless steel. That’s difficult to clean off regular, flat pans, but it’s a particular headache when it’s caked into the grooves on a grill pan.

• Consider what you’re cooking before buying your pan. Does it involve a lot of grease? You might want to consider a deeper pan, even if that makes it a little less maneuverable on the stovetop. A longer handle will also keep your hands safe from splatter.
• If you’re cooking multiple dishes in a row, consider a pan with a spout. It can be particularly handy for emptying out grease or other juices between servings of burgers or other big family meals.
• Does shape make a difference? Again, it depends on what you’re grilling. Square pans will give you more surface area to work with, but round pans are a bit more maneuverable — and slightly easier to clean.