Cookware★ 4.5Mar 17, 2026
Best Grill Presses 2026: Complete Guide
Get restaurant-quality sear marks and perfectly cooked meats at home. We tested the top grill presses to find the best options for every kitchen.
Why Use a Grill Press?
A grill press is an essential tool for achieving that perfect sear on steaks, burgers, and sandwiches. It applies even pressure across the entire surface, ensuring uniform cooking and those beautiful grill marks. It's also great for pressing out excess moisture from burgers and flattening bacon for consistent cooking.
What to Look For
- • Material - Cast iron retains heat best, aluminum is lightweight, stainless steel is durable
- • Weight - Heavier presses apply more pressure but can be harder to handle
- • Surface Size - Larger surfaces cook more at once but require more storage space
- • Handle - Look for heat-resistant handles that stay cool during cooking
- • Maintenance - Consider whether it's dishwasher safe or requires special care
Our Top Pick: Lodge Cast Iron Grill Press
The Lodge Cast Iron Grill Press earns our top pick for its excellent heat retention, pre-seasoned surface, and built-in handle. It weighs just the right amount to apply firm pressure without being unwieldy, and the natural nonstick seasoning improves with each use.