Lodge Cast Iron Smash Burger Press
Last Updated
First Published
The smash burger technique requires one thing: heavy, even pressure. The Lodge cast iron press weighs 7.5 lbs and delivers exactly that — a perfectly flat, maximum-contact smash every single time.
What We Love
- +7.5 lbs of cast iron — heavy enough to smash properly
- +Pre-seasoned and ready to use
- +Cool-grip spiral handle stays manageable
- +Flat bottom ensures even contact
- +Also works as a bacon press and panini press
- +Lodge quality — built to last generations
Watch Out For
- −Heavy — not ideal for kids or those with wrist issues
- −Requires seasoning maintenance
- −Single-purpose tool (mostly for smash burgers)
- −Takes up storage space
Specifications
Material
Cast iron (pre-seasoned)
Weight
7.5 lbs
Diameter
7.5 inches
Handle
Cool-grip spiral
Care
Hand wash, re-season periodically
Warranty
Lodge limited lifetime
The Full Review
The smash burger revolution is built on one principle: maximum surface contact between meat and cooking surface = maximum crust. And maximum crust = maximum flavor. The Lodge press makes this effortless.
Form a 2 oz ball of ground beef (80/20, never leaner). Place it on a screaming hot griddle. Press the Lodge down firmly and hold for 10 seconds. Lift. You now have a perfectly thin, perfectly round patty with edges already crisping.
The 7.5 lb weight does the work — you don't need to push down with force. Just place it and let gravity handle the smashing. The flat bottom ensures every part of the meat contacts the griddle.
Beyond smash burgers, I use it as a bacon press (flat bacon strips that cook evenly), a panini weight (grilled sandwiches with grill marks), and a chicken press (boneless thighs cook faster under weight).
Lodge's pre-seasoning is decent but improves dramatically with use. After 10-15 smash sessions, the surface is slick and non-stick.
How Does It Compare?
At a glance against its closest accessory rivals.
| Grill | Rating | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodge Cast Iron Smash Burger Press (this) | 4.7 | $25 | 7. |
| Blackstone 17-Inch Tabletop Griddle | 4.4 | $99 | The most portable Blackstone — 17 inches of flat top that fits in a backpack. |
| Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable Griddle | 4.2 | $115 | A solid budget portable griddle with 3 burners and 316 sq in of cooking surface. |
Who Is It For?
Blackstone and griddle owners who want perfect smash burgers. Burger enthusiasts chasing the crispy crust. Anyone who wants a multi-purpose cast iron press for various cooking techniques.
Final Verdict
The Lodge press at $25 is the single most important accessory for griddle owners. If you bought a Blackstone to make smash burgers, this is what completes the setup. Buy it with your griddle.
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