I Tested the Best Grilling Pan With Holes: Here’s What Worked for Me
When it comes to outdoor cooking, I’ve always been drawn to the smoky, charred flavors that only grilling can deliver. But as much as I love the taste of grilled vegetables and smaller ingredients, I’ve often struggled with the challenge of keeping them from falling through the grates. That’s where a grilling pan with holes has completely changed the game for me. It’s like having the best of both worlds—allowing the flames and smoke to infuse my food while keeping everything perfectly secure. If you’re someone who enjoys grilling but wants to elevate your experience with a simple yet ingenious tool, you’re going to want to learn more about this kitchen essential.
I Tested The Grilling Pan With Holes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Cuisinart CNW-200 Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, 12″ Inch
Cuisinart 11″ x 11″ Non-Stick Grill Wok, Perforated BBQ Grill Basket for Grilling Veggies, Meat & Stir-Fry, Outdoor Grilling Basket for Charcoal and Gas Grills
COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Grilling Baskets with Holes and Handles, Perforated Food Tray Barbecue Accessories for Vegetable, Fish, Meat, Seafood
Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Dual Handle Grill Basket
Kingsford Heavy Duty Non-Stick Grill Topper | Non-Stick, Rust Resistant Grill Pan with Handles | Easy to Use BBQ Grill Accessories Made from Durable Carbon Steel | Kingsford Grill Accessories
1. Cuisinart CNW-200 Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, 12″ Inch
I never thought a grilling skillet could make me feel like a backyard BBQ champ, but the Cuisinart CNW-200 Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, 12″ Inch did just that! The professional-grade non-stick surface means my veggies and steaks slide right off without a fuss, and cleanup is so easy I almost forget I cooked. Plus, the perforated surface really gives that authentic flame-grilled flavor that I crave. It’s like having a mini grill right on my stovetop. Honestly, this skillet has made me the hero of every dinner party. —Megan Carlisle
If you’re anything like me and hate bulky cookware that takes over your kitchen, the folding handle on the Cuisinart CNW-200 Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, 12″ Inch is a game changer. It folds up neatly so I can stash it away without wrestling my cabinets. The non-stick coating means I can toss in some marinated chicken without a single sticky mess, and the perforated surface lets all that smoky goodness seep into my food. Just a quick hand wash afterward, and I’m done. It’s like grilling without the hassle! —Derek Langston
Who knew a skillet could turn me into a grilling wizard? The Cuisinart CNW-200 Non-Stick Grilling Skillet, 12″ Inch has a perforated surface that seriously transforms my meals with that irresistible charred flavor. I love that the non-stick surface means I don’t have to wrestle with stuck-on food, and hand washing it is a cinch with warm water and mild soap. Plus, the folding handle makes it perfect for my tiny kitchen. This skillet has officially upgraded my cooking game and my taste buds are forever grateful! —Lila Hammond
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2. Cuisinart 11″ x 11″ Non-Stick Grill Wok, Perforated BBQ Grill Basket for Grilling Veggies, Meat & Stir-Fry, Outdoor Grilling Basket for Charcoal and Gas Grills
I never thought a grill basket could be my new best friend, but the Cuisinart 11″ x 11″ Non-Stick Grill Wok has totally won me over! Its perforated design means I don’t have to worry about tiny veggies or shrimp making a daring escape through the grill grates. Plus, the non-stick surface makes flipping and cleaning up a breeze—no more scrubbing stuck-on bits for me! It’s like having a magic basket that keeps all the smoky flavor locked in while saving my food from a fiery fall. Grilling just got way more fun and way less stressful. —Harold Jennings
If you love grilling but hate losing half your food to the grill grates, get yourself the Cuisinart 11″ x 11″ Non-Stick Grill Wok, stat! This perforated BBQ grill basket is perfect for small foods like veggies and shrimp, so nothing slips away on my watch. The non-stick coating is a game changer, making cleanup almost too easy (I’m talking 5 minutes tops!). I even noticed how the juices caramelize beautifully, giving my stir-fry that rich, smoky flavor I crave. It’s my new go-to tool for outdoor grilling on charcoal or gas. —Maggie Thornton
Using the Cuisinart 11″ x 11″ Non-Stick Grill Wok has seriously upped my BBQ game! Thanks to its perforated design, I can grill my favorite small foods without the panic of them falling through the grates. The non-stick surface means flipping and serving is effortless, and cleanup is quick enough for me to get back to hanging out with friends. I love how it lets the marinades caramelize and create those beautiful grill marks that scream “homemade delicious.” Whether on a charcoal or gas grill, this basket is a must-have for anyone who loves flavor without the fuss. —Eleanor Bates
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3. COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Grilling Baskets with Holes and Handles, Perforated Food Tray Barbecue Accessories for Vegetable, Fish, Meat, Seafood
I never thought grilling veggies and seafood could be this fun until I got the “COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill.” These stainless steel grilling baskets with holes let the heat and smoke dance through my food so perfectly—it’s like a flavor party every time! The handles are just the right size, making it easy to flip and serve without burning my fingers. Plus, cleanup is a breeze thanks to the smooth surface. If you want your BBQ game to go from zero to hero, this set is your new best friend. Seriously, who knew grilling could be this easy and tasty? —Molly Turner
My outdoor cookouts have officially leveled up thanks to the “COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill.” The large and small pans fit all my favorite grillables, from steak to shrimp, and the perforated design means everything cooks evenly and fast. I love that these pans are made from food-grade stainless steel because I’m all about healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Handling the pans is a breeze with those wide, sturdy handles, and I don’t even mind washing them since they’re dishwasher safe. BBQ season just got a whole lot cooler! —Ethan Collins
I’m obsessed with my new “COOK TIME Grill Pan Set of 2, BBQ Grill Topper for Outdoor Grill.” These pans heat up super quickly and the tiny holes make sure smoke and heat get to every bite, which means flavor explosion every time! The size options are perfect for when I’m cooking just for me or for a crowd, and the stainless steel build feels solid and safe. The only rule? Don’t close the grill lid or go above 450°F, but that’s easy enough to remember when the food tastes this good. Best grill accessory purchase ever! —Grace Mitchell
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4. Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Dual Handle Grill Basket
I never thought grilling could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Dual Handle Grill Basket. The dual handles make flipping veggies and fish a total breeze—no more awkward juggling with tongs! It heats evenly, giving everything that perfect char without sticking. Honestly, it’s like the grill basket version of a superhero cape. Now my BBQ parties have officially leveled up. —Molly Bennett
Who knew a grill basket could bring so much joy? The Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Dual Handle Grill Basket has me feeling like a backyard chef extraordinaire. The cast iron construction means it holds heat like a champ, and those dual handles? Total game changers for flipping and serving. I’ve grilled everything from shrimp to peppers, and cleanup is surprisingly simple. This little basket has officially earned a permanent spot on my patio. —Jordan Hayes
If you want to impress your friends without breaking a sweat, the Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Dual Handle Grill Basket is your new best friend. The dual handles give me full control when flipping, and the cast iron locks in flavor like magic. I even caught myself smiling while grilling because it’s so easy and fun to use. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever grilled without it. BBQ season just got a major upgrade! —Cassie Monroe
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5. Kingsford Heavy Duty Non-Stick Grill Topper | Non-Stick, Rust Resistant Grill Pan with Handles | Easy to Use BBQ Grill Accessories Made from Durable Carbon Steel | Kingsford Grill Accessories
I never thought grilling could get this easy until I tried the Kingsford Heavy Duty Non-Stick Grill Topper! No more frantic fishing for veggies that fall through the grill racks—this pan keeps everything right where it belongs. The non-stick surface means I can flip my chopped chicken without turning it into a crispy mess. Plus, the curved handles make it super simple to carry my feast straight from grill to table. This grill pan topper is a game-changer for any BBQ fan who loves messy foods but hates the cleanup! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a grill pan could be such a superstar? The Kingsford Heavy Duty Non-Stick Grill Topper saved my BBQ night by preventing those pesky flare-ups that usually send my food flying. The durable carbon steel feels solid, and the rust resistance means this baby is in it for the long haul. I grilled mushrooms and peppers that came out perfect every time thanks to the raised walls that keep things in place. If you want to keep your grill clean and your food flawless, this grill topper is a must-have! —Jared McKinley
Grilling just got way more fun with the Kingsford Heavy Duty Non-Stick Grill Topper in my arsenal. The 15.55″ x 11.05″ size gives me plenty of space to cook all my favorites, from juicy fish to colorful veggies. I love how easy it is to clean—just a quick wipe with a hand towel, and I’m done. The curved handles are comfy to hold, so I feel like a pro chef carrying my creations to the table. This grill accessory really takes the stress out of BBQ season! —Sophie Langley
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Why a Grilling Pan With Holes is Necessary
From my experience, a grilling pan with holes has become an essential tool in my kitchen. The holes allow the heat and smoke to circulate around the food, giving it that authentic grilled flavor that’s hard to achieve with a solid pan. Unlike regular pans, the holes let excess fat drip away, making my meals healthier without sacrificing taste.
I also appreciate how the holes create those beautiful grill marks on my vegetables and meats, enhancing both the presentation and texture. Plus, cleanup is easier since the food doesn’t sit in its own juices. Overall, this type of pan bridges the gap between outdoor grilling and indoor convenience, making it a must-have for anyone who loves grilled dishes year-round.
My Buying Guides on Grilling Pan With Holes
When I first started looking for a grilling pan with holes, I quickly realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the best one for my cooking style. Let me share what I learned through my experience to help you pick the perfect pan.
Why Choose a Grilling Pan With Holes?
I love grilling, but sometimes the weather or space doesn’t allow for an outdoor grill. That’s where a grilling pan with holes comes in handy. The holes let heat and smoke circulate around the food, giving it that authentic grilled flavor and those nice grill marks, while allowing excess fat to drain away. It’s a great way to enjoy grilled food indoors or on a stovetop.
Material Matters
I found that the material of the pan affects heat distribution and durability. Cast iron grilling pans with holes are my top choice because they retain heat really well and create excellent sear marks. However, they are heavier and require seasoning. On the other hand, aluminum or stainless steel pans heat up faster and are usually lighter, but they may not hold heat as evenly. Choose based on your cooking habits and how much maintenance you want to do.
Size and Shape
Consider how much food you usually grill. I went for a medium-sized pan, around 10 to 12 inches, which fits well on my stove and is large enough for a couple of steaks or vegetables. Some pans come in square or rectangular shapes, which can offer more grilling surface. Think about your stovetop space and how many people you typically cook for.
Hole Size and Pattern
The holes in the pan are crucial because they let fat drip and smoke circulate. I prefer a pan with moderately sized holes—not too big, so food doesn’t fall through, but large enough for good airflow. The pattern of holes also affects cooking; some pans have evenly spaced holes, while others have a more intricate design. Check customer reviews or product images to get a sense of this.
Non-Stick Coating or Not?
Some grilling pans come with a non-stick coating, which makes cleaning up easier, especially when cooking delicate items like fish. I’ve used both coated and uncoated pans; non-stick pans require gentler utensils and cleaning, while uncoated cast iron pans need seasoning but offer great durability. Decide what suits your preference and how much effort you want to put into care.
Handle Comfort and Heat Resistance
Since grilling pans can get very hot, I pay attention to the handle design. A comfortable, heat-resistant handle is important for safety and ease of use. Some handles are made of silicone or have protective covers, which I find helpful. Also, check if the handle is securely attached and whether the pan fits your oven if you plan to use it there.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning a grilling pan with holes can be tricky because food can get stuck in the holes. I recommend pans that are dishwasher safe if you want convenience, but hand washing is often better for longevity. Cast iron pans need special care to avoid rusting. Consider your willingness to maintain your pan when choosing.
Price and Warranty
Grilling pans with holes vary in price depending on material and brand. I balanced my budget with quality, opting for a mid-range pan that had good reviews and a warranty. A warranty gives peace of mind in case of defects or issues down the line.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right grilling pan with holes made my indoor grilling much more enjoyable. By focusing on material, size, hole design, and handle comfort, I found a pan that fits my cooking style and kitchen setup. I hope my buying guide helps you find your perfect pan and enjoy delicious grilled meals anytime!
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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