Craving those gorgeous grill marks but don’t want to deal with propane tanks, charcoal, or unpredictable weather? Say hello to the indoor grill pan. These pans let you sear steaks, char veggies, and even cook burgers right on your stovetop—no patio required. After testing a bunch of options, I’ve rounded up the 7 best grill pans for indoor searing in 2025 that’ll give you that backyard barbecue vibe inside your kitchen.
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron Grill Pan
- Size: 10.5 inches
- Material: Cast iron
- Heat Safe: Oven safe up to 500°F
Why I like it: A true classic. The Lodge cast iron grill pan gives perfect grill marks and unbeatable heat retention. Once preheated, it sears steaks as well as an outdoor grill. Yes, it’s heavy, but that’s part of its charm.
Best for: Steak lovers who want authentic grill results indoors.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Square Grill Pan
- Size: 10.25 inches
- Material: Enameled cast iron
- Colors: Wide range (Flame, Cerise, Marseille)
Why I like it: Gorgeous, durable, and easy to clean. The enamel coating means no seasoning required, and the heat retention is top-notch. It doubles as a stylish serving dish, too.
Best for: Cooks who want both performance and aesthetics.
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Cast-Iron Grill Pan
- Size: 12 inches
- Material: Cast iron with porcelain enamel
- Heat Safe: Oven safe up to 500°F
Why I like it: Affordable and dependable. The enamel interior prevents sticking, and the extra-large size fits more food at once. Great for grilling chicken breasts or a batch of veggies.
Best for: Families cooking larger portions indoors.
All-Clad Hard-Anodized Nonstick Grill Pan
- Size: 11 inches
- Material: Hard-anodized aluminum with nonstick coating
- Handles: Stainless steel stay-cool handle
Why I like it: Sleek, modern, and super easy to clean. The nonstick surface reduces the need for oil, and the ridges still leave nice grill marks. Bonus: it’s lighter than cast iron.
Best for: Health-conscious cooks who want nonstick convenience.
Lodge Reversible Grill/Griddle Pan
- Size: 16.75 x 9.5 inches
- Material: Cast iron
- Design: Double-sided (grill on one side, griddle on the other)
Why I like it: Two pans in one. Grill steaks on one side, then flip for pancakes or bacon. It works on two burners for extra cooking space.
Best for: Versatile home cooks who like multitasking cookware.
Staub Cast-Iron Grill Pan
- Size: 12 inches
- Material: Enamel-coated cast iron
- Design: Matte black interior
Why I like it: Professional-level searing indoors. The matte enamel gives a restaurant-style char, and Staub’s colors make it a showpiece in the kitchen.
Best for: Home chefs who want professional performance.
GreenPan Ceramic Nonstick Grill Pan
- Size: 11 inches
- Material: Hard-anodized aluminum with ceramic nonstick
- Eco-Friendly: PFAS-free coating
Why I like it: Lightweight, non-toxic, and easy to clean. The ceramic nonstick is PFAS-free, making it one of the healthier choices on this list.
Best for: Health-conscious cooks who avoid traditional nonstick chemicals.
Buying Guide – Grill Pans for Indoor Searing
Material
Cast iron is unbeatable for heat retention and grill marks. Nonstick and ceramic are easier to clean but don’t get as hot.
Size
10–12 inches is ideal for most kitchens. Larger double-burner pans suit families or batch cooking.
Weight
Cast iron is heavy but delivers the best sear. Nonstick is lighter and easier to handle.
Cleanup
Nonstick and ceramic are easiest to clean. Cast iron requires seasoning unless enameled.
Quick Comparison
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FAQs
Do grill pans really work indoors?
Yes! They mimic outdoor grills by creating ridges for grill marks and allowing fat to drip away. While they won’t add smoky flavor, they deliver great searing.
Which is better: cast iron or nonstick?
Cast iron gives the best sear and durability, but it’s heavy. Nonstick is lighter and easier to clean but won’t get quite as hot.
Can grill pans go in the oven?
Most cast-iron and enamel grill pans can go straight from stovetop to oven. Always check manufacturer guidelines for max temps.
The Bottom Line
If you want bold grill marks without firing up the BBQ, an indoor grill pan is a must. The Lodge Cast-Iron Grill Pan is the best all-rounder, while Le Creuset and Staub bring luxury and stunning looks. For easy cleaning, All-Clad Nonstick or GreenPan Ceramic are excellent picks. No matter your choice, you’ll bring steakhouse vibes into your kitchen.