Comparison: Best Cast Iron Grill Pan 12 Inch (Updated | Nov 10th)

Look at the pan’s overall dimensions, the shape of the grill ribs, and whether it has one or two handles for easier maneuvering. Compatibility with your cooktop—gas, electric, induction, or even a campfire—is essential, as is a pre‑seasoned surface that reduces the learning curve. Finally, consider the finish; a smoother interior can make cleaning easier and improve food release.

Backcountry Iron uses a proprietary oil blend and advertises a smoother finish, while Lodge seasons its cookware with 100 % vegetable oil and lets the seasoning improve with each use. The Lodge BOLD line and Onlyfire also come pre‑seasoned with natural oil, but they emphasize a traditional, fully‑cast‑iron patina. All are chemical‑free, but the initial seasoning depth can affect how quickly the pan becomes non‑stick.

All the models are solid cast iron, which inherently offers excellent heat retention, but the Backcountry Iron pan highlights a “smoother finish” that can promote more uniform heat distribution. Lodge’s BOLD and Dual‑Handle grills are praised for consistent edge‑to‑edge heating, and the Onlyfire skillet’s thick 12‑inch body also locks in heat well. In practice, any of these will deliver restaurant‑quality searing; the difference is marginal and often comes down to personal preference.

Dual handles provide better balance and safety when lifting a heavy, hot pan, especially for tasks that require moving the pan from stovetop to oven or grill. Models like the Lodge Dual‑Handle Grill Pan, Onlyfire’s dual‑handle skillet, and the 12.6‑inch griddle all feature this design. If you plan to cook large cuts of meat or use the pan on a campfire, the extra grip can be a noticeable convenience.

Deeper ribs, as described for the Backcountry Iron and Lodge BOLD pans, create pronounced grill marks and allow excess fat to drip away, resulting in healthier, more flavorful results. Shallower ribs still provide sear lines but may retain more grease, which can be desirable for certain dishes. Choose the rib depth based on whether you prioritize classic grill aesthetics or a bit more juiciness.

While exact prices aren’t listed, Lodge’s long‑standing reputation often translates to a solid value proposition, especially for the Dual‑Handle and BOLD models that include robust seasoning and a lifetime warranty. Backcountry Iron positions itself as a premium choice with a smoother interior and unique pre‑seasoning blend, which may carry a higher price tag. If budget is a priority, the standard Lodge skillet or grill pan typically offers the best balance of cost and performance.

Yes, all of the featured 12‑inch cast‑iron pans are compatible with induction, as well as gas, electric, and even open‑flame cooking. Cast iron’s magnetic properties make it naturally induction‑ready, so you won’t need a special adapter. Just ensure the pan sits flat on the surface to maintain even heating.

After each use, wash the pan with warm water and a non‑abrasive scrubber, dry it immediately, and apply a thin layer of oil to the cooking surface. Avoid soaking overnight, never place it in the dishwasher, and store it in a dry environment. Regular use actually improves the seasoning, making the pan more resistant to rust over time.