PanSpanLe Creuset Panini Press
Which cast-iron panini press should I choose for stovetop sandwiches, and do I need a matching pan?
For most kitchens, I’d choose the Lodge: it’s a substantial square press you can use with a pan or griddle you already own. Pick the Tramontina if you want a complete enameled grill-pan-and-press set for grill marks. If lifting a heavier press is a concern, the lighter Victoria is an appealing everyday option; the round EWFEN is the shape I’d choose for a round skillet.
If you want an alternative to a Le Creuset panini press, choose the Tramontina Bestow: it pairs a blue enameled cast-iron grill pan with a matching press.
#1 · Lodge
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Panini Press, 8.32 Inch | Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Press for Burgers, Sandwiches, Bacon & Everyday Griddle Cooking, Durable & Naturally Nonstick
Choose the Lodge for a versatile standalone press: its 8.25-inch square format and 3.95-pound weight suit sandwiches, bacon and burgers without adding a whole grill-pan set to your cupboards.
#2 · Tramontina
Tramontina Bestow Enameled Cast Iron 11-Inch Grill Pan with Press, Blue
Choose the Tramontina when you want a matching enameled cast-iron grill pan and press together. It’s the set to take for ridged cooking and a coordinated, colorful piece of cookware, provided you’re comfortable handling a hefty set.
#3 · Victoria
Victoria Cast Iron Panini Press, Burger Press, Bacon Press, Grill Press, Seasoned with 100% Kosher Certified Non-GMO Flaxseed Oil, Model Number: GAD-025
Choose the Victoria if you want a lighter press that’s easier to lift and maneuver. Its textured underside and removable wooden handle also make it a practical pick for bacon and regular stovetop use.
#4 · EWFEN
EWFEN Burger Press, 7" Round Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Smash Bacon Press Meat Steak with Wood Handle for Griddle, Sandwich, Nonstick Pan
Choose the EWFEN if you prefer a round press for sandwiches, burgers and bacon. Its 7-inch round shape and wooden handle make it a straightforward option for a griddle or round skillet.
Do you need a matching pan for a cast-iron press?
No—a press works with a sturdy skillet, griddle or flat-top that gives it stable support and enough room for the food. I’d take the Lodge if you already have a suitable pan. Choose the Tramontina if you want the pan and press together, especially because its matching press is designed to create grill marks.
Is a square or round press better for a round skillet?
A round press is easier to center on a round cooking surface, so the 7-inch EWFEN is my pick for that setup. The Lodge’s 8.25-inch square press can still be useful, but its corners may extend beyond a round skillet. Whatever the shape, keep the press stable and don’t let it rock against the pan’s edge.
Should you buy a press alone or a grill-pan set?
For a wedding or holiday gift, I’d choose the Tramontina if the recipient wants a ready-to-use grill-pan set and enjoys enameled cookware. It’s a substantial piece to lift and store, though. The Lodge is the more flexible gift when you don’t know what pans they already own; the Victoria is a sensible choice if easy lifting matters most.
How they compare
Which one is yours
Lodge: You want one sturdy, versatile press to use with cookware you already own.
Tramontina: You want an enameled cast-iron grill pan and press as a coordinated set, with ridges for grill marks.
Victoria: You want a lighter press that’s easy to lift and useful for bacon as well as sandwiches.
EWFEN: You want a round press that’s easy to center on a round skillet or griddle.
You will also want
A heavy press gets hot and needs a safe place to rest between sandwiches. These are the useful extras I’d pair with one.
KEGOUU Oven Mitts and Pot Holders 6pcs Set, Kitchen Oven Glove High Heat Resistant 500 Degree Extra Long Oven Mitts and Potholder with Non-Slip Silicone Surface for Cooking (Grey)
Oven mitts make it easier to handle hot metal cookware and move the Tramontina grill pan safely.
Walfos Silicone Trivets for Hot Pots and Pans - 446°F Heat Resistant Hot Pads for Kitchen Counter- 4 Pcs Multi-Purpose & Versatile Trivet Mat - Long-Lasting & Flexible Silicone Hot Pad（Black）
A silicone turner from this utensil set helps lift and serve sandwiches without scraping the enameled grill pan.
Questions buyers ask
Will a square panini press fit in a 10-inch round skillet?
It can work if it sits securely, but a square press may have corners extending past the skillet’s cooking surface. For a round skillet, I’d choose the 7-inch round EWFEN and check that it rests flat before cooking.
How do you get grill marks and evenly melted cheese?
The ridges in a grill pan create the grill marks; the press helps keep the sandwich in contact with the hot surface. Use moderate heat so the bread browns before the filling gets a chance to burn, and press gently rather than forcing the sandwich flat.
Can I use a cast-iron press on a glass cooktop?
Heavy cast iron can scratch or damage glass if it’s dragged or dropped. Set it down gently and lift it rather than sliding it; follow your cooktop’s care guidance. The Tramontina set is compatible with ceramic glass and induction cooktops.
How should I clean a cast-iron panini press?
Let it cool enough to handle, then wipe away grease and food promptly. For seasoned cast iron, avoid leaving it soaking; dry it thoroughly and maintain its seasoning. For the Tramontina’s enameled grill pan, use a non-scratch scrubber and avoid harsh scraping.
Is a cast-iron press a good gift for a home cook?
Yes, for a home cook who enjoys stovetop cooking; first check that they have room for cast iron and will be comfortable maintaining it.