Imagine biting into perfectly seared steak or fluffy pancakes, the kind that make you close your eyes with delight. That amazing taste often starts with a well-seasoned griddle. But getting that perfect, non-stick surface can feel like a puzzle. Many people struggle to figure out the best oil to use. Some oils burn too quickly, leaving a sticky mess. Others don’t create a strong enough layer, and your food starts to stick.
Choosing the right oil for your griddle is important for delicious cooking and easy cleanup. You want an oil that can handle high heat without smoking too much. You also want one that builds a tough, protective layer over time. Without the right oil, your griddle can rust, your food can stick, and your cooking experience becomes frustrating.
In this post, we’ll explore the best oils for seasoning your griddle. We’ll break down why some oils work better than others. By the end, you’ll know exactly which oil to reach for, helping you achieve that coveted non-stick surface for all your griddle adventures. Let’s get cooking!
Our Top 5 Oil To Season Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Oil To Season Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Blackstone 4146 Griddle Conditioner Kit 2-in-1 Cast Iron Season Oil for Grill Grates
Rating: 8.9/10
Keep your cooking surfaces in top shape with the Blackstone 4146 Griddle Conditioner Kit. This 2-in-1 oil is designed to clean, protect, and condition your griddle, cast iron skillets, Dutch ovens, and more. It helps build a smooth, non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleanup a breeze, all while preventing rust.
What We Like:
- It’s a simple, all-in-one solution for griddle care, saving you from buying different cleaning products.
- The 2-in-1 formula effectively conditions your cookware and protects it from rust and moisture.
- It works on more than just griddles; you can use it on cast iron pans, carbon steel pots, skillets, Dutch ovens, and grill grates.
- The oil is 100% plant-based and vegan, using a mix of natural oils and beeswax.
- A little bit of the conditioner goes a long way, meaning one bottle will last you a good while.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s plant-based, some users might prefer a scent-free option.
- The proprietary blend means you can’t easily replicate it yourself.
This Blackstone conditioner is a fantastic way to maintain your cookware. It provides excellent care for your griddles and cast iron, ensuring they stay in great condition for years to come.
2. Cast Iron Oil Non-stick Conditioner for Seasoning Skillets
Rating: 9.4/10
Say goodbye to sticky situations and hello to perfectly seasoned cast iron! The Foodieville by Creation Farm Cast Iron Oil Non-stick Conditioner is your new best friend for keeping skillets, griddles, BBQ grills, flat top grills, and Dutch ovens in top shape. This premium blend uses a special mix of flaxseed, sesame, and MCT oils to build a tough, non-stick surface that actually gets better with use. It’s not just about making your cookware non-stick; it also keeps rust and corrosion away, making your favorite cast iron last for years.
What We Like:
- Forms a smooth, hardened, and long-lasting seasoning layer for a superior non-stick cooking surface.
- Protects cast iron from rust and corrosion, extending its lifespan.
- High smoke point and excellent polymerization make it ideal for high-temperature cooking.
- Polymerizes quickly even at high temperatures, making cooking and cleanup easier.
- Made with natural, food-safe ingredients that won’t go rancid and leave cookware smelling fresh.
- Offers exceptional value with 25% more product per bottle than leading brands.
- The optional spray top, once initialized, provides even application (ensure the “on” button is in the correct position).
What Could Be Improved:
- The spray applicator requires a bit of effort to get started, with a specific “on/off” button that needs to be correctly positioned and vigorous pumping to initialize.
This cast iron conditioner is a fantastic way to preserve and perfect your cookware. It’s an investment that pays off with every delicious meal you cook.
3. CARON & DOUCET – 100% Plant-Based Griddle Oil & Seasoning Set: Best For Maintaining
Rating: 8.8/10
Keep your griddle in top shape with the CARON & DOUCET – 100% Plant-Based Griddle Oil & Seasoning Set. This set is designed to make your griddle perform its best, ensuring every meal is a success.
What We Like:
- It creates a super slick, nonstick surface for perfect cooking.
- The seasoning protects your griddle from rust and keeps it looking new.
- It’s really easy to use, just add a little oil and heat it up.
- The plant-based ingredients are food-grade and good for you.
- It even helps get rid of those yucky cooking smells, making food taste better.
- The Caron family stands by their product with a money-back guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for seasoning could be a little clearer for absolute beginners.
- More detailed information on the specific plant-based oils used would be helpful.
This griddle oil and seasoning set is a fantastic way to care for your griddle. It makes cooking easier and your griddle last longer.
4. CARON & DOUCET Griddle Seasoning & Cleaning Oil
Rating: 9.5/10
Keep your griddle in top shape with CARON & DOUCET Griddle Seasoning & Cleaning Oil. This 100% plant-based and food-grade oil is designed for all your griddle care needs, from seasoning to cleaning and protecting against rust. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves to cook on a griddle.
What We Like:
- It’s made with food-grade, vegan, plant-based ingredients. This oil protects your griddle’s cooking surface after every use.
- It helps build up your griddle’s seasoning. This makes your griddle more non-stick, so cooking and cleaning are easier.
- It shields your griddle from moisture. This prevents rust and corrosion, keeping your griddle looking its best. You only need a little bit each time.
- It cleans your griddle and gets rid of smells. A special mix of canola, grapeseed, and lemon oil naturally removes food odors. Your griddle will smell clean and neutral, without affecting your food’s taste.
- The Caron family stands behind their product. They offer a full refund if you’re not completely happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The scent, while neutral, might not be strong enough for those who prefer a more noticeable cleaning aroma.
This CARON & DOUCET Griddle Seasoning & Cleaning Oil is a fantastic choice for maintaining your griddle. It offers great protection and cleaning power, making your cooking experience better.
5. CARON & DOUCET – Ultimate Griddle Set
Rating: 8.5/10
Keep your griddle looking and performing its best with the CARON & DOUCET – Ultimate Griddle Set. This all-in-one kit is designed to help you season, clean, and protect your griddle, ensuring delicious meals every time. Everything in this set is 100% plant-based, making it a great choice for your kitchen and the environment.
What We Like:
- The Griddle Scrub is fantastic for tackling tough rust and stuck-on food.
- The Griddle Soap cleans gently without stripping away your hard-earned seasoning.
- The Griddle Seasoning creates a wonderful nonstick surface and prevents rust.
- The Griddle Oil maintains your griddle’s surface and eliminates odors naturally.
- All ingredients are food-grade, vegan, and plant-based.
- The Caron Family Guarantee offers peace of mind with a full refund if you’re not satisfied.
What Could Be Improved:
- The set might be a larger investment upfront compared to buying individual cleaning products.
- For beginners, the full care process might take a little practice to master.
This CARON & DOUCET set offers a complete solution for griddle care. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves to cook on a griddle and wants to keep it in top condition for years to come.
Your Guide to the Perfect Griddle Seasoning Oil
Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your griddle? Seasoning your griddle is like giving it a special coat that makes it non-stick and protects it from rust. This guide will help you choose the best oil to make your griddle cooking amazing.
What is Griddle Seasoning Oil?
Griddle seasoning oil is a special type of oil you use to create a smooth, non-stick surface on your griddle. This process, called seasoning, makes cooking easier and keeps your griddle in great shape for years.
Key Features to Look For
1. Smoke Point
This is how hot the oil can get before it starts to smoke. A high smoke point is important because you heat your griddle to high temperatures when seasoning. Oils with higher smoke points are better because they won’t burn and create a bitter taste or a smoky mess.
2. Type of Oil
Different oils have different qualities. Some are better for seasoning than others. We’ll talk more about this in the materials section.
3. Ease of Use
You want an oil that is easy to pour, spread, and wipe off. Some oils are thicker and harder to work with. A good oil makes the seasoning process simple.
4. Value for Money
Consider how much oil you get for the price. Some oils are more expensive, but they might last longer or work better.
Important Materials
1. High Smoke Point Oils
These are the best choices for seasoning. They can handle the heat.
- Grapeseed Oil: It has a very high smoke point and a neutral flavor. This makes it a top pick for many cooks.
- Avocado Oil: Another oil with a super high smoke point. It’s also great for high-heat cooking.
- Flaxseed Oil: This oil is often called the “gold standard” for seasoning. It polymerizes well, meaning it forms a hard, protective layer.
2. Oils to Use with Caution (or Avoid)
Some oils can be used, but they might not be as effective or can cause issues.
- Vegetable Oil/Canola Oil: These have moderate smoke points. They can work, but you might need more coats.
- Olive Oil: Regular olive oil has a lower smoke point. Extra virgin olive oil smokes too easily and is best for eating, not seasoning.
- Butter/Lard: These can add flavor, but they burn easily. They are better for cooking *after* your griddle is seasoned.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Regular Seasoning: The more you season and cook with your griddle, the better the non-stick surface becomes.
- Proper Cleaning: Always clean your griddle after use, but avoid harsh soaps. A good scrape and wipe are usually enough.
- Even Application: Make sure you spread the oil evenly over the entire griddle surface.
Reducing Quality:
- Using the Wrong Oil: Oils with low smoke points can burn and create sticky spots.
- Too Much Oil: Using too much oil can lead to a sticky, gummy surface.
- Not Enough Heat: If the griddle isn’t hot enough, the oil won’t polymerize properly.
- Rust: If your griddle is not seasoned or is left wet, it can rust, ruining the surface.
User Experience and Use Cases
When you use the right oil, seasoning your griddle is a simple process. You apply a thin layer of oil, heat the griddle until it smokes, let it cool, and then wipe off the excess. You repeat this a few times. A well-seasoned griddle makes cooking pancakes, burgers, bacon, and vegetables a joy. Food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze.
For outdoor chefs, a seasoned griddle is perfect for camping trips or backyard BBQs. For home cooks, it transforms your stovetop griddle into a pro-level cooking surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the best oil to season a new griddle?
A1: Grapeseed oil, avocado oil, or flaxseed oil are excellent choices because they have high smoke points and create a durable non-stick layer.
Q2: Can I use cooking spray to season my griddle?
A2: It’s generally not recommended. Cooking sprays often contain other ingredients that can burn and leave a sticky residue. Stick to pure oils.
Q3: How often should I season my griddle?
A3: Season your griddle when it’s new, after deep cleaning, or if you notice food starting to stick. Regular use also helps maintain the seasoning.
Q4: Does the brand of oil matter?
A4: Not as much as the type of oil. As long as you choose a pure oil with a high smoke point, most reputable brands will work well.
Q5: My griddle is sticky after seasoning. What did I do wrong?
A5: You might have used too much oil, or the oil didn’t get hot enough to polymerize. Try applying a thinner layer and ensuring the griddle is hot.
Q6: Can I use the same oil for seasoning and cooking?
A6: Yes, once your griddle is seasoned, you can use the same high smoke point oils to cook with and to re-season lightly as needed.
Q7: How do I clean my griddle after seasoning?
A7: Scrape off any food bits with a spatula. You can use a little water and a stiff brush if needed, then dry it thoroughly and apply a very thin layer of oil.
Q8: Will seasoning my griddle make it completely non-stick like Teflon?
A8: Seasoning creates a very good non-stick surface, but it’s a natural layer. It might not be as completely non-stick as artificial coatings, but it’s much healthier and improves with use.
Q9: I see some smoke when I season my griddle. Is that normal?
A9: Yes, some smoke is normal when seasoning. It means the oil is heating up and creating the protective layer. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area.
Q10: Can I season a cast iron griddle and a stainless steel griddle with the same oil?
A10: Yes, the best oils for seasoning work well on both cast iron and most stainless steel griddles.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.