12 Inch Square Grill Pan - Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Searer

In this review of the 12 inch square grill pan from Backcountry Iron the bottom line is simple: this is a heavy-duty, pre-seasoned cast iron grill pan for cooks who want restaurant-style searing without firing up an outdoor grill. It excels at even heat retention and produces deep grill marks on steaks, chicken and sandwiches, while the pre-seasoned surface makes it ready to use straight from the box. The pan's 12.5 in spout-to-spout size and substantial weight make it a durable kitchen workhorse for stovetop, oven or open-fire cooking.

Key Features

• Pre-seasoned surface: Ready to use out of the box and provides a naturally nonstick patina when used with a thin layer of oil.
• Superior heat retention: Heavy cast iron construction holds and distributes heat evenly for consistent searing and browning.
• Deep ribs: Raised grill ribs create pronounced grill marks while letting excess oil drain to the pan base for healthier cooking.
• Versatile compatibility: Works on electric, gas and induction cooktops and is safe for oven or outdoor fire use.
• Generous size: Measures 12.5 in spout to spout with a 5 in handle length, large enough for steaks, two sandwiches or several portions of vegetables.
• Protective handle mitt: Includes a nylon-based slip-on mitt for comfortable handling and safer transfer between stove and oven.

Who It's For

This grill pan is aimed at home cooks and small households who want the searing performance of a grill in a pan: people who cook steaks, chicken, fish or panini indoors and expect durable, long-lasting cookware. It is also a good fit for campers or backyard cooks who want a pan that can go over a fire.

It is less suitable for someone who needs ultra-lightweight cookware or expects dishwasher cleaning; cast iron weight and the care required to avoid rust mean users should be comfortable with hand-washing, drying immediately and reapplying oil for maintenance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent searing and heat distribution that yields consistent results across the cooking surface.
• Pre-seasoned finish that reduces initial sticking and improves with continued use.
• Sturdy, versatile design that works on stovetops, in ovens and over open flames.

Cons

• Heavy weight may be cumbersome for some users and requires care when handling.
• Cast iron requires regular maintenance to prevent rust and is not dishwasher-safe.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Backcountry Iron 12 inch square grill pan is a solid choice for cooks who want reliable, restaurant-quality searing indoors or over a fire. Its pre-seasoned surface, deep ribs and excellent heat retention deliver consistent results and strong value for the price, provided you accept the cast iron weight and maintenance needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the pan ready to use out of the box?
Yes, it arrives pre-seasoned with the company's oil blend and is ready for immediate use with a light coating of cooking oil.

Can I use this on induction cooktops?
Yes, the cast iron construction is compatible with electric, gas and induction cooktops as well as ovens and open flames.

How should I clean and store it to avoid rust?
Hand wash with warm water, scrape stuck food with a flat utensil or chainmail scrubber, dry immediately and apply a thin layer of oil before storing.