HexClad BBQ 12″ Grill Pan vs. Cuisinart: Pros, Cons & Verdict
A good grill pan is a game-changer for anyone who loves the taste of perfectly seared meats and veggies. Whether you’re grilling indoors or over an open flame, the right pan can elevate your cooking experience, ensuring even heat distribution, rich flavors, and those signature grill marks. But not all grill pans are created equal. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get lost in the details. That’s why today, we’re putting two popular choices head-to-head: the HexClad Hybrid BBQ Grill Pan and the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick Hard Anodized Grill Pan.
Both pans promise durability, efficiency, and a superior cooking experience, but they cater to different types of cooks. The HexClad BBQ Grill Pan is designed for high-heat, open-flame grilling, delivering an authentic smoky flavor, while the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan is a great option for indoor cooking, perfect for those who want the grill experience without firing up an outdoor setup. While they share similarities in size and functionality, the materials, heat tolerance, and overall cooking styles set them apart.
So, which one is worth your money? If you’re looking for the best grill pan to suit your cooking habits, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each, so you can decide which pan deserves a spot in your kitchen.
1. Material and Construction
The HexClad Hybrid BBQ Grill Pan is engineered with HexClad’s signature hybrid design, combining stainless steel with a TerraBond™ ceramic nonstick surface. This pan is built to withstand extreme heat—up to 900°F—making it an ideal companion for open-flame grilling. Its perforated design ensures a perfect smoky flavor without losing ingredients to the grill grates.
On the other hand, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan features a hard anodized aluminum construction, which ensures even heat distribution and durability. It’s coated with PURELYCERAMIC™ nonstick, which is PFAS-free, making it a safer and healthier option for those concerned about nonstick coatings. However, it maxes out at 500°F, making it less suited for high-heat outdoor grilling.
👉 Winner: HexClad for its extreme heat resistance and hybrid construction.
2. Cooking Performance & Versatility
The HexClad BBQ Grill Pan is designed for open-flame grilling—its perforated base allows smoke to infuse the food while keeping delicate ingredients intact. The high, curved sides make stirring and flipping easy, while the wide surface (12 inches) ensures plenty of room to cook for the whole family.
The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan, meanwhile, is ideal for indoor stovetop grilling. Its raised ridges mimic outdoor grill marks while allowing fat to drain away for healthier cooking. It’s perfect for steaks, chicken, and burgers when you don’t want to fire up the grill outside. However, it lacks perforations, meaning it won’t deliver the same smoky, charred flavor as the HexClad.
👉 Winner: Tie—HexClad dominates in outdoor grilling, while Cuisinart shines for indoor use.
3. Heat Distribution & Handling
The HexClad Grill Pan distributes heat quickly, thanks to its unique hybrid construction. However, it requires careful heat management—since HexClad heats faster than traditional cookware, it’s recommended to start on lower settings to prevent overheating.
The Cuisinart Grill Pan is designed for even heat distribution due to its hard anodized aluminum base. It also has a stainless steel Cool Grip™ handle, which stays cool on the stovetop, making it easier to maneuver.
👉 Winner: Cuisinart for its even heat distribution and stay-cool handle.
4. Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning up after grilling can be a hassle, but both pans offer solutions:
- The HexClad Hybrid BBQ Grill Pan is dishwasher-safe, though a quick soak in soapy water usually does the trick. However, it requires seasoning for optimal performance, which might be a downside for those who prefer a low-maintenance option.
- The Cuisinart Grill Pan has a nonstick PURELYCERAMIC™ coating, making cleanup easier. However, hand washing is recommended to preserve its longevity.
👉 Winner: HexClad for being dishwasher-safe.
5. Price & Value
Now, let’s talk numbers. The HexClad BBQ Grill Pan is priced at $159, making it a premium investment for those serious about grilling. However, it comes with a lifetime warranty and free shipping, ensuring long-term value.
Meanwhile, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan is available for just $34.95, making it a budget-friendly option for those who want a high-quality indoor grill pan without breaking the bank. It also has a lifetime warranty, offering peace of mind at a fraction of the cost.
👉 Winner: Cuisinart for affordability.
Final Verdict: Which Grill Pan Should You Choose?
| Feature | HexClad Hybrid BBQ Grill Pan | Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Hybrid stainless steel with ceramic nonstick | Hard anodized aluminum with PURELYCERAMIC™ nonstick |
| Heat Resistance | Up to 900°F | Up to 500°F |
| Cooking Use | Open-flame grilling, perforated for smoky flavor | Indoor stovetop grilling with raised ridges |
| Ease of Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe, requires seasoning | Easy-clean nonstick, hand wash recommended |
| Handle | Stainless steel, may get hot | Cool Grip™ stainless steel handle |
| Price | $159 | $34.95 |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
Choose the HexClad BBQ Grill Pan if:
✅ You love grilling outdoors and want that authentic smoky flavor.
✅ You need a high-heat, durable pan that can handle extreme temperatures.
✅ You prefer a dishwasher-safe option.
🔥 Get the HexClad BBQ Grill Pan today and bring restaurant-quality grilling to your backyard.
Choose the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan if:
✅ You want a budget-friendly, high-quality indoor grill pan.
✅ You prefer a PFAS-free nonstick surface for healthier cooking.
✅ You like a stay-cool handle for easy stovetop use.
🥩 Shop the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Grill Pan now and enjoy effortless indoor grilling.
Both grill pans have their strengths—it all depends on how and where you love to cook!
