Image: MomJunction Design Team
If you enjoy grilled food, we have created a list of the best grill presses to help you choose the right one. They are one of the essential grilling accessories available in multiple shapes compatible with meat or flat food items. Be it round or rectangle-shaped grill presses, they spread the heat evenly on the food and enhance its flavors.They ensure the meat remains flat and doesn’t curl up while grilling and keep the food close to the heat source. So, if you wish to upgrade your backyard barbecue setup, a grill press can be a good addition. So, explore our list to learn more about the various best-selling options and choose one that suits your needs.
Top Picks
11 Best Grill Presses For Making Perfect BBQs And More In 2024
1. Best Ergonomic Grip:Cuisinart Cast Iron Grill Press CGPR-221
Image: Cuisinart 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 28,844 fine reviews on Amazon.
A long press that works well with a relatively large skillet. It is heavier, weighing around 2.8lb, and can be used on 12-inch frying grill pans. The wooden handle offers an ergonomic grip for use on hot cooking surfaces and adds a stylish touch to the press. The tested and approved panini press lets you press out unwanted fats with minimum pressure and can cook two burgers, pork chops, bacon, or hot dogs. You could also use it for panini sandwiches or grilled food.
Pros
- Offers even cooking
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Ergonomic design
- Easy to use
- Easy cleanup
Cons
- May have a rough bottom surface
- Shape may change after some years of usage
"I like to grill on the weekends, so this press has been a pretty nifty find. Its handle gets a little warm when exposed to the heat for a long time, but its heavy build aids in even cooking. Plus, it even doubles as an impromptu sandwich press."
Do remember2. Best Classy Look:Bellemain Cast Iron Grill Press
Image: Bellemain Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 14,385 positive customer reviews on Amazon are a testament to its quality and reliability.
This top-rated, round grill press, weighing three pounds, looks classic and features a stay-cool handle. It distributes the pressure evenly to trap all the flavors within the food. Constructed from heavy-duty cast iron, it can be seasoned like skillets to make a non-stick surface. Preheat the press on a pan, and then apply pressure to the food. It is sized suitably to fit any area you cook in. The handle needs no cooking gloves, and you may lift or press it without any worry. This is not suitable for working with smaller pans.
Pros
- No PFOA or PTFE
- Three-year warranty
- Cool-grip handle
- Lead-free
Cons
- May be a tad hard to maintain
- Handle’s screws may need to be fixed regularly
"This kitchen tool cooks the meat evenly regardless of its thickness. Its size is not the best for small pans, but it is handy for my outdoor grills and larger skillets. Overall, this press always offers remarkable results when it's correctly seasoned."
3. Best Innovative:Norpro 8.75-Inch Cast Iron Bacon Press With Wood Handle
Image: Norpro Known for offering innovative and high-quality cookware, Norpro offers this 8.75-inch round bacon press that can flatten and evenly cook the best cut bacon curl. This 2-in-1 indoor and outdoor grill press is suitable for ham, hamburgers, quesadillas, and grilled sandwiches. The wooden handle stays cool and is safe to touch, making it a favorite choice of the reviewers. This cast iron press measures 8.75×8.75×3.25in and comes with an instruction manual for cleaning and storage.
Pros
- Heavy for the perfect press
- Thick and large, offering great coverage
- Easy to use
- Durable construction
- Ideal for gifting
Cons
- May become hot quickly
- May be rust-prone
"With this press, I can effortlessly grill those bacon burgers and meat patties when I have family over. Its handles are also very smooth, and the metal build feels durable. However, I recommend oiling it after every use to prevent rusting."
Cuisinart Cast Iron Grill Press CGPR-221 | Bellemain Cast Iron Grill Press | Norpro 8.75-Inch Cast Iron Bacon Press With Wood Handle | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.33"D x 8.75"W x 3.43"H | 8.5 x 8.5 x 3.25 inches. | 8.75"L x 8.75"W x 3.25"H |
| Color | Cast Iron Grill Press with Wood Handle | - | Black |
| Material | Cast Iron | - | Cast Iron |
| Weight | 2.27 pounds | 3 pounds | 2.99 pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 28,844 | 14,385 | 3,973 |
| Price | $15.99 | $21.85 | $17.53 |
4. Best Extra-Large:Blackstone Griddle Press
Image: Blackstone The Blackstone griddle press made of heavy-gauge cast iron helps enhance the flavor of the food by spreading the heat evenly. This high-performance, commercial-grade, and extra-large press can be used to prepare sandwiches, sausages, bacon, burgers, and more, without the edges curling up from the heat. The heavy weight and grooved surface adds grill marks on your food for better food presentation.
Pros
- Heat-resistant handle
- Ideal for professional cooking
- Comes with rounded corners
- Sturdy build
- Has a non-slip rubber grip
Cons
- May not be dishwasher-friendly
- Some food may stick to the grooves
"Not only does this press keep the meat from curling, but it also gives them that delicious crispiness. Its textured surface may require more effort to clean, but I consider that a small trade-off for the restaurant-style results it offers."
Caution5. Best Versatile:Lodge LGPR3 Cast Iron Round Grill Press
Image: Lodge Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 12,105 reviews on Amazon, it's clear that many people love this product.
The best-selling Lodge LGPR3 features a 7.5-inch round surface, which is versatile enough to be used on top of grills and ovens. This grill model offers consistent cooking temperature and speeds up the cooking to make delicious grilled bacon, steak, or other foods. The spiral handle has a cool-grip that is comfortable to hold. The trusted pre-seasoned cast iron grill cooking tool comes ready to use. You can wash it easily by hand.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Smooth non-stick surface
- Holds sandwiches in place
- Takes less time to cook
Cons
- May be heavier than expected
- Lipped edge prevents the burgers from flattening precisely
"This cast iron press has proven itself to be quite a multitasker. It ensures the labels lay flat and the bacon and other meats cook evenly with the right amount of crispiness. The highlight is the handle, which makes it safe to use."
6. Best Heat-Resistant:Outset Round Cast Iron Grill Press
Image: Outset The Outset heavy-duty grill press is suitable for making delicious sandwiches, burgers, and other grilled delicacies. Its 8x8x3.25-inch cast iron construction ensures evenly cooked food with each use. In addition, its heat-resistant wooden handle allows you to safely and efficiently press your food, and its eight-inch diameter ensures uniform thickness. Moreover, the flattening grill model presses out unwanted fat with minimal pressure and cooks both sides of the meat with even heat distribution.
Pros
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Produces grill impressions
- Durable construction
- Easy to use
Cons
- May not be rust-proof
- May have to season it periodically
"It efficiently smashes burgers and helps me make pressed chicken, grilled cheese, and paninis too. The wooden handle and hole for the thermometer are pretty handy."
7. Best Sturdy:Burger Iron Sasquash Smashed Burger Press
Image: Burger Iron Burger Iron’s Sasquash burger press is an essential kitchen accessory for making delicious, evenly-shaped burgers in just a few minutes. Its heavy-duty steel construction helps make the thinnest burgers, and the extra-wide handle provides maximum comfort and control. From pressing the patty to quickly removing it from the press, the time-tested sturdy press can do everything effortlessly.
Pros
- Universal size
- Smooth finish
- Wooden handle
- Available in two shapes
Cons
- May not be rust-resistant
- Some might find it thin
"As someone who loves homemade smash burgers, finding this press has been a complete joy for me. It fits comfortably in my hand, making the cooking process easier, and I like that it's dishwasher-safe."
8. Best Stainless Steel:Cuisinel Cast Iron Grill Press
Image: Cuisinel Cut down your time in the kitchen while improving the quality and flavor of your meals with this cast iron and stainless steel grill press. Whether the dish on the menu is sandwiches, paninis, or a simple yet timeless grilled cheese, you can use this trusted and must-have accessory to press out excess fat and leave you with a healthy, delectable home-cooked meal. With an ergonomic spiral-wired handle that’s as visually appealing as functional, you don’t have to worry about burning yourself or accidentally dropping the grill press. Use the pressing tool as an indoor grill, for barbecues, over a bonfire, or in the oven, and enjoy the remarkable heat retention and distribution that always brings the best out of food.
Pros
- Includes spanner for easy assembly
- Pre-seasoned
- Heavy
- Has no sharp corners
- Comfortable stainless steel handle
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- May rust if not maintained well
- Washers may be a bit flimsy
"I love the design of this griddle. It has both a grill and a flat side, allowing me to make various dishes, be it tender, juicy meats or crispy dosas. The quality seems pretty durable, and it comes pre-seasoned, sparing me the hassle of frequent oiling."
Did you know?9. Best Durable:GadgetWiz Enameled Bacon Cast Iron Grill Press
The GadgetWiz grill press can be used on many surfaces, including grills, griddles, and even electric induction or gas stoves. The enamel coating on this durable press needs no seasoning, making it easier to use. There is no need to worry about rust formation or material contamination with food. You can use dishwashing soap for cleaning and leave it to dry after washing. The wooden handle comes with a stylish touch-cool feature, so there is no need for cooking gloves.
Pros
- Comfortable grip handle
- Suitable for outdoor grilling
- Available in round and rectangle shape
- Removes unwanted fat from meat
- Speeds up meat cooking time
Cons
- Wooden handle may swell
- May be slightly bigger than expected
"I've used this press to cook everything from bacon to panins. The enameled coating makes cleanup easy but may require careful handling to prevent chipping. Still, it works well and has found a permanent place in my kitchen."
10. Best Ready For Use:Jim Beam JB0177 Iron Barbecue Press
The Jim Beam cast-iron press with a stainless steel handle could be an addition to your classy kitchen interiors. This grill model is available with pre-seasoned vegetable oil and is ready for use. You can cook all kinds of meat, like pork, beef, chicken, and fish. The premium barbecue tool can be used to prepare seafood, hamburgers, steak, and vegetables.
Pros
- Reduces cooking time
- Unique textured surface
- Food-grade material
- Corrosion-resistant
- Portable design
Cons
- Grill press handle may not be heat-resistant
- May be hard to clean
"This meat press is not easy to maintain but has proven functional and attractive. It squeezes out the excess fat, thoroughly cooks the inside, and makes the outer layer crisp. All in all, it has been the perfect find to enhance my grilling skills."
11. Best Comfortable:Winco Stainless Steel Steak Weight Press
Image: Winco The stainless steel grill press could be an ideal solution for grilling or frying thicker cuts of steak or patties. You can enjoy healthily cooked meats thanks to its even heat penetration effect that evenly cooks the food while retaining the rich flavor. The red silicone handle remains cool and can resist heat up to 230°C (450°F), to give you a comfortable cooking experience. The steak press is made of high-quality 18/8 stainless steel that is sturdy and durable for long-term use. It measures 4×7.5in and is designed to speed up the grilling process. You may use it for cooking sausages, bacon, burgers, and hash browns. This trusted grill press also features a stylish and unique design.
Pros
- One-piece design
- Can withstand commercial use
- Rust-proof
- Smooth surface for easy cleaning
Cons
- May not be long enough to cover the ends of a bacon strip
- May be lighter than expected
"Besides its effective cooking performance, I appreciate the design, which allows for convenient storage, and cleaning takes only a minute. Though it feels slightly uneven sometimes, it still works and has been a valuable addition to my kitchen."
How To Choose The Best Grill Press?
Here are a few aspects to keep in mind while planning to purchase a grill press.
- Press material: Most grill presses are made of cast iron, which is better at retaining heat and searing the top of the foods deeper when compared to stainless steel. A stainless steel press is a good option, too, as it does not require maintenance, and is easier to clean up.
- Weight: The grill press should weigh at least a pound, and anything less would not give satisfactory results. Ideally, it should weigh somewhere between 1.5lb and 2.5lb.
- Handle:The grill press handle should be either wooden or silicone, as they do not absorb the heat. They are more comfortable to hold and give a proper grip. Also, the handle should ideally be placed high above the press.
- Ease of washing: Go for a grill press that is plain and simple so that it does not collect dirt or grime in the corners, thus making it easy to wash.
Akino Ogata, a Japanese food expert, says, “Imagine how one grill press can change your cooking. A pan and grill press can help you create many delicious dishes you wish to cook–sizzling steaks with grill marks, juicy hamburgers, and chicken steaks with crispy skin. Choose one after determining the frequency of use, and ensure it is easy to maintain.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are grill presses worth it?
You can use a grill press for cooking meats evenly. The weight of the press ensures that no side of the meat is undercooked, burnt, or cold. The heavy press also helps squeeze out excess oil.
2. Is a grill press the same as a bacon press?
3. Yes, grill press and bacon press are different names of the same product. The grill’s weight keeps the bacon from curling when fried, hence the name bacon press.
4. Do I need to flip bacon when using a bacon press?
Flipping the bacon with a bacon press when cooking ensures that the meat gets cooked evenly. It also helps create grill lines on both sides of the meat.
Why Trust MomJunction?
With experience in writing product articles about home and kitchenware and thorough research and analysis across different platforms, Sakshi John, our writer and reviewer, has compiled a list of the best grill presses to upgrade your barbeque setup. She has also combined a buying manual for your convenience with features like grill press material, weight, handling technique, and ease of washing so you can make an informed decision when purchasing one.
The Bottom Line
Grill presses facilitate even heat distribution over meat or other flat food items, leaving you with a rich, aromatic flavor that retains its texture and quality as you dine. The options included in our list of the best grill presses cover both heavy and lightweight presses designed to be ergonomic, durable, and versatile enough to work on all kinds of meat. The top picks include the heavy-duty Cuisinart Cast Iron Grill Press CGPR-221, the Bellemain Cast Iron Grill Press with cool-grip handle, and the easy-to-use Burger Iron Sasquash Smashed Burger Press. Furthermore, knowing what type of press is best for the grilled foods you wish to prepare will help you pick the right one and make your backyard BBQ party successful.
Infographic: Notable Points About Grill Press Usage
A grill press can make the barbequing process fast and efficient. The press evenly heats the food and gives it a crunch without diminishing the nutrients, making it ideal for grilling meat or making burgers and sandwiches. Read through the points in the infographic to know how you can use the press easily and efficiently.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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