Quick answer
Preheat the press on the grill or griddle, then apply even, firm pressure for 30–60 seconds to sear and flatten foods like smash burgers, bacon, or sandwiches.
Why use a grill press?
A cast iron grill press uses weight and heat retention to cook food faster and more evenly. It presses meat flat for maximum contact with the cooking surface, creating a deep sear and crispy edges. This is especially useful for smash burgers, where thin patties cook quickly and develop a caramelized crust.
The press also helps bacon stay flat, prevents sandwich ingredients from sliding apart, and can even toast bread evenly. Because cast iron holds heat so well, the press doesn't cool down when you place it on food, so you get consistent results every time.
Choosing the right press for your cooking style
If you mostly make smash burgers, a standard round press like the Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press works perfectly. It's heavy enough to flatten patties thin and has a smooth surface that's easy to clean. For those who want to add a decorative sear mark, the Yellowstone 8 Inch Round Seasoned Cast Iron “Power Y” Grill Press leaves a distinctive Yellowstone “Power Y” design on proteins, which can be fun for steaks or chicken.
Both presses are naturally seasoned and made without PFAS, so they're safe for high-heat cooking. The main trade-off is that a patterned press requires a bit more care when cleaning to avoid food getting stuck in the design.
How to use a grill press: step-by-step
- Preheat the press: Place the cast iron grill press on your grill, griddle, or pan while it preheats. Let it heat for at least 5 minutes over medium-high heat so the press is hot all the way through. A cold press will stick and won't sear properly. Always preheat with the cooking surface.
- Prepare your food: For smash burgers, portion ground beef into balls (about 2–3 oz each) and season lightly. For bacon, lay strips flat. For sandwiches, assemble with buttered bread facing out. Don't flatten the meat before cooking—the press does that in one motion, which creates the best crust.
- Place food on the hot surface: Put the meat or sandwich directly onto the preheated grill or griddle. For burgers, place the ball of meat and immediately set the hot press on top. Apply gentle, even pressure for 30–60 seconds. Pressing too hard can squeeze out juices. Let the weight of the press do most of the work.
- Lift and flip: After pressing, lift the press straight up—don't slide it, or you might tear the crust. Flip the burger or food with a thin spatula. Cook the other side without pressing. If the press sticks, it wasn't hot enough. Next time, preheat longer.
- Clean the press immediately: While the press is still warm, rinse it with hot water and scrub with a stiff brush. Avoid soap—it can strip the seasoning. Dry thoroughly over low heat, then rub with a thin layer of cooking oil. Never soak cast iron or put it in the dishwasher. Prompt cleaning prevents rust and keeps the seasoning intact.
Product facts
-
Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press: This grill press loves a smash burger! Cast iron provides incredible heat retention for the perfect sear and solid weight to get the burger thin and crispy. The weight and heat retention mean you don't need to press hard—just set it on the patty and let the cast iron do the work.
Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grill Press
-
Yellowstone™ 8 Inch Round Seasoned Cast Iron “Power Y” Grill Press: This special-edition Yellowstone grill press features a Yellowstone “Power Y” design on the searing surface, so you can leave a mark on proteins. The raised design creates a branded sear on steaks or chicken, adding visual appeal while still pressing food flat.
Yellowstone™ 8 Inch Round Seasoned Cast Iron “Power Y” Grill Press
