Cast Iron Griddle vs. Steel Griddle: Which One is Better for Grilling?

Porosity: The Achilles Heel of Cast Iron

One major drawback of cast iron is its porous nature. While those pores help seasoned cast iron develop a non-stick surface over time, they also allow moisture to seep in. Over time, this can lead to rust or structural weaknesses.

On a grill, the rapid temperature changes can be especially problematic for cast iron. Heating a cast iron griddle too quickly or dropping it by accident can cause it to crack. Steel griddles, however, lack these pores, making them far more durable and resistant to extreme conditions.

Durability: Why Steel Is Virtually Indestructible

Steel griddles are built to last. Their dense structure resists cracking, even when subjected to high temperatures or sudden impacts. While cast iron is prone to damage if mishandled or heated unevenly, steel griddles maintain their integrity over time.

Here’s how the two compare in real-world grilling situations:

• Cast Iron: Prone to cracking if dropped or exposed to uneven heating.
• Steel: Can handle drops, high heat, and even prolonged exposure to flames without breaking or warping.

Heat Performance: Nearly Identical Grilling Results

When it comes to grilling, both cast iron and steel excel. Since their composition is nearly identical, both materials offer excellent heat retention and distribution. This means your food will cook evenly, whether you're searing steaks or grilling vegetables.

The Arteflame grill, with its ultra-hot center grill grate and surrounding flat-top griddle, works exceptionally well with steel due to its durability. However, if properly maintained, cast iron griddles can deliver similar cooking results—just with a bit more care required.

Cost Comparison: Is Steel Worth the Price?

Steel griddles are slightly more expensive than cast iron, but the price difference is minimal when you consider the long-term benefits. While cast iron may be cheaper upfront, its tendency to crack and require frequent maintenance can make it less economical over time.

Investing in a steel griddle ensures you won’t need to replace it after a few seasons. It’s a one-time purchase that pays off in reliability and performance.

Why Steel Is Ideal for Arteflame Grills

Arteflame grills are designed for serious grill masters who demand the best. The steel flat-top griddle that surrounds the grill’s ultra-hot center is the perfect example of why steel outshines cast iron. Here’s why:

1. No Cracking Under High Heat: The Arteflame’s center grill grate reaches temperatures over 1,000°F. Steel can handle this intense heat without the risk of cracking, unlike cast iron.
2. Even Cooking Surface: The solid steel flat-top ensures perfect heat distribution across different zones, from the sizzling hot center to the cooler edges.
3. Long-Lasting Durability: With proper care, the steel griddle will last a lifetime, standing up to the rigors of grilling without breaking.

Maintenance: A Crucial Difference

Both materials require some level of care, but steel is more forgiving than cast iron. Here’s how the two stack up:

• Cast Iron Maintenance: Requires regular seasoning to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick surface. Its porous structure makes it more susceptible to moisture damage if not properly dried and oiled.
• Steel Maintenance: Easier to clean and less prone to rust. While seasoning helps improve its performance, steel doesn’t rely on it to the same extent as cast iron.

Why Cast Iron Might Still Be Appealing

Despite its drawbacks, cast iron has a loyal fan base. Some grillers love the way cast iron develops a seasoned, naturally non-stick surface over time. If handled with care and properly maintained, cast iron can last for years. However, it’s important to recognize the limitations—especially when using high-heat grills like the Arteflame.

Final Verdict: Steel Outshines Cast Iron

While both cast iron and steel griddles perform well for grilling, steel is the superior choice when durability, longevity, and low-maintenance care are factored in. On a grill like the Arteflame, where extreme heat and heavy use are the norms, steel stands out as the best option.

If you’re serious about outdoor cooking and want equipment that won’t let you down, invest in a steel griddle. Its slightly higher cost is a small price to pay for a lifetime of grilling perfection.