How To Clean Cast Iron Grill Pan

Ways to Clean Cast Iron Grill Pan

The ways on how to clean cast iron grill pan are easier than you think. Take a look at the following options and choose which cleaning method will best suit you. Keep in mind that caring for your grill pan does not end with cleaning. Reseasoning after every cleaning as needed also makes a difference.  

Boiling Water

Boiling water is the most effective way on how to clean cast iron grill pan. It is very helpful in removing sticky food particles on your pan. This method is applicable to grill pans with tall sides, so the water is kept inside to loosen the food bits.

1. On a stovetop, boil water on your grill pan. Water must be about two or three inches.  
2. As the water boils, the food bits will begin to loosen up and likely float on the surface.
3. If you still see remaining food particles, use a spatula to scrape on the grill’s ridges.
4. Let your grill pan cool and drain the water together with the food and other residues.
5. After the pan gets empty, use hot water to rinse it and use a paper towel to dry the pan.

Salt and Water

The use of salt and water is the most preferred grill pan cleaning method for most chefs. The salt effectively scrubs the stuck-on food particles on the grill pan while at the same time protect the pan’s seasoned surface.

1. After using your cast iron grill pan, let it cool for a moment but not completely.
2. With a bit of tolerable heat on it, put on coarse salt on the grill pan and cover its entire surface.
3. Pour a small amount of water to the surface, so the salt turns into a paste-like substance.
4. Thoroughly scrub the salt on the pan using a sponge. Make sure to scrub between the pan’s ridges and sides to remove all the stuck-on food bits.
5. Remove the salt and food residues on the grill pan by rinsing it using hot water.

Salt without Water

Other cooks would prefer not to use water in cleaning a cast iron grill pan and only use salt as the lone cleaning agent. It works effectively in scrubbing stuck-on food, just like you have used water on it.

1. After using the grill pan, put a substantial amount of coarse salt on the pan’s surface.
2. Rub the salt on the surface, targeting the stuck-on food residues, using a folded paper towel.
3. Continue scrubbing until all food bits have loosened; you can add more salt as needed.
4. Finally, remove all the salt and residues from the grill pan using a clean paper towel.  

Soap and Water

This suggested method on how to clean cast iron grill pan is convenient but must only be done whenever necessary. That is so because the process may remove the flavor-enhancing seasoning of your cast iron grill pan.

1. Put a minimal amount of mild dishwasher soap at the center surface part of your grill pan.
2. Put a small amount of hot water, and use a scrubber or sponge to scrub on the surface and all corners of the pan.
3. When all food residues have been removed, rinse the cast iron grill pan with hot water.
4. Make sure to rinse all remaining soap residue for the best result.

Seasoning Cast Iron Grill Pan

Cast iron grill pans can be passed on to generations when they are well maintained. Seasoning helps a lot in keeping them in shape. As you go about cleaning after every use of your grill pan, its surface is at the stake of getting damaged or developing rusts.

After cleaning your cast iron grill pan, it is necessary to re-season or re-condition your pan. To do it, set it on a stovetop to ensure that all water has evaporated. Then, rub oil over the entire grill pan surface using a paper towel. It also helps oil the sides and handle of the pan. Wipe away excess oil on the grill pan. Then set it on a stovetop again until you see a bit of smoke. Cool it down before storing it in a cool and dry place.