How to Clean a Cast Iron Grill Pan – 5 Easy Steps

How To Clean A Cast Iron Grill Pan With Ridges

If you’ve ever cooked with a cast iron skillet, you know just how amazing the results can be.

Cast iron grill pans offer all the same great benefits, plus they create those awesome-looking grill marks that make your food look like it was made on a real outdoor BBQ.

Just like a cast iron skillet, grill pans require special attention and care to keep them in their best condition.

But did you know there’s an art to properly cleaning and caring for your cast iron grill pans?

Well, maybe not an art, but grill pans have ridges, making them a little more challenging to clean than a flat skillet.

In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process. From prepping your cast iron pan to removing stuck-on food and seasoning it afterward, we’ll cover everything you need to know about maintaining your cast iron pan.

Here is a video that demonstrates visually how to clean a cast iron grill pan.

Preparing Your Pan For Cleaning 

First things first, let’s talk about cleaning cast iron. What is the best way to clean cast iron pans properly?

The best way to clean any cast iron cookware is to do so immediately after use. This way, you can avoid having to scrub off stuck-on debris and any food particles.

Can You Use Soap On Cast Iron?

While the pan is still warm, take it to the sink and scrub away any food residue with a soft sponge and hot, soapy water. Yes, mild dish soap is okay! However, DO NOT SOAK your cast iron pan for extended periods, or IT WILL RUST!

If you didn’t clean the skillet immediately after cooking and it has cooled off with dried or burnt food particles, the best way to tackle this is with hot water and a stiff brush. If necessary, use a plastic notched scraper. Avoid metal bristles, as they can damage the pan’s surface.

A little soap can be used if needed, but always rinse thoroughly after cleaning. Once cleaned, dry the pan completely with a towel. For best results, place it back on a burner to heat out any remaining moisture before oiling

How Do You Clean A Burnt Cast Iron Grill Pan?

No problem! All you need to do is fill the pan with a few inches of water and bring it to a boil. Boiling the water will help loosen up any stuck-on debris, making it easier to remove.

After boiling for several minutes, carefully dump out the hot water and start scrubbing away with a grill pan scrubber or brush. You may need to use a bit of elbow grease, but the burnt-on food should come off fairly easily.

Finally, make sure you rinse the pan thoroughly with hot water and dry it immediately.

Cast Iron Grill Pan Cleaning

The next step is to apply oil. This step helps protect the surface of the grill pan from rusting while also helping to build up flavor over time.

To oil your grill pan, take avocado oil or some vegetable oil (or any other type of neutral-flavored cooking oil) and rub it into the surface of the grill pan with a paper towel or cloth.

Make sure you get in all of the nooks and crannies so that every inch is covered in oil!

Finally, store your cast iron pan in an area that is cool and dry, like inside a kitchen cabinet or pantry shelf away from direct sunlight. This will help ensure that your cast iron pan remains in tip-top shape for years to come!

Cleaning and caring for your cast iron doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow these simple steps.

By giving it thorough scrubbing after each use and applying oil regularly, you can ensure that your cast iron will remain in great condition for years to come! So go ahead and start cooking up some delicious food today!

Benefits of Cleaning a Cast Iron Grill Pan

Apart from simply looking better, there are some great benefits to regularly cleaning and caring for your cast iron grill pan.

Regularly scrubbing your cast iron, as we said before, will help prevent rust and keep it in good condition for years to come.

Additionally, oiling your grill pan will help to add flavor and make your food taste better.

How To Use Cast Iron Grill Pan

You can use a cast iron grill pan to make delicious grilled vegetables like peppers, onions, mushrooms, squash, and more.

Just preheat the pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, add the vegetables and cook them until they are nicely caramelized and lightly charred. But my favorite is to cook a good ole ribeye!

Cast Iron Grill Pan Steak

One great use for a cast iron grill pan is to cook steak. It’s an ideal way to get those wonderful-looking grill marks and that perfect sear on your steak.

To do this, preheat the pan until it’s smoking hot and add a bit of oil or butter. Once the fat starts to sizzle, place the steak in the pan and cook it to your desired level of doneness.

Other Cast Iron Grill Pan Uses

Finally, you can use a cast iron grill pan to make other delicious dishes like pancakes, omelets, and sandwiches.

Grilled cheese sandwiches and paninis are especially delicious when made with a cast iron grill pan because they get that wonderful crispiness on the outside and melty cheese inside. I use a grill press to help get the grill marks I want on these sandwiches.

You can also use your cast iron to sear fish, chicken, or pork chops. All of these dishes will come out perfectly cooked and full of flavor!

The possibilities are endless! So go ahead and start experimenting today!

Frequently Asked Questions