Cedar planks add a smoky, earthy depth to fish, meat, and vegetables, elevating outdoor cooking. This guide highlights five top cedar plank options from trusted US brands and explains how to choose the right plank for your grill. Each product section provides concise details, practical tips, and direct links to Amazon for quick checkout.
| Product | Brand | Size | Pack |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More | Wildwood Grilling | Various (typical 5×11″ / 0.3″ thick range) | 12-pack |
| Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack | Grill Gourmet | 5.5″ x 11″ x 1/3″ | 12-pack |
| Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks XL 7×15 | Wildwood Grilling | 7″ x 15″ | 8-pack |
| Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Planks (12-Pack) | Wildwood Grilling | 5″ x 11″ | 12-pack |
| Jaccard Ready 2 Grill Pre-Soaked Cedar Planks | Jaccard | 11″ x 5.5″ | 2-plank pack |
Below are the five cedar plank options chosen for their USA sourcing, food-safety standards, and practical sizes for a range of grill setups. Each product section includes a direct link to the Amazon product page for quick access.
Wildwood Grilling 12 Pack Cedar Planks
These Western Red Cedar planks deliver a balanced smoky flavor that complements salmon, pork, and vegetables. The package includes easy-to-follow instructions accessible via QR code, helping beginners achieve reliable results. The planks are designed to present salmon attractively, enhancing plating as well as taste.
Key features: adds subtle smoke and fresh cedar notes; convenient QR-guided usage; visually appealing service on the plank. Suitable for salmon and various proteins, plus grilled fruit and vegetables.
Grill Gourmet Cedar Planks 12 Pack
Textured, thicker planks provide extra smoke and flavor diffusion. They are sized to fit standard grills and are intended for single use to maintain sanitary cooking standards. Designed to maximize aroma release while grilling, especially on larger cuts or multiple servings.
Key features: textured for enhanced smoke and flavor; upgraded thickness for robust grilling surfaces; single-use sanitation note.
Wildwood Grilling Western Red Cedar XL Planks
XL planks sized 7×15 inches provide ample surface to accommodate full salmon fillets or larger protein portions. They bring an authentic grilling experience with a traditional Native American-inspired cedar flavor, versatile for fish, vegetables, and meats.
Key features: authentic cedar flavor; large format for full-filet cooking; versatile usage across proteins and vegetables.
Wildwood Grilling Signature Cedar Planks 12-Pack
These USA-made, sourced cedar planks offer a balanced, delicate earthy flavor ideal for salmon, seafood, vegetables, and fruit. They are produced in a food-safe facility and designed to serve 2-3 portions per plank, with larger planks available for full fillets.
Key features: USA-made from Western Red Cedar; food-safe facility; convenient size for 2-3 servings; emphasizes natural flavors without additives.
Jaccard Ready 2 Grill Pre-Soaked Cedar Planks
Pre-soaked with water, these planks require no preparation, soaking, or waiting. Made from premium red cedar wood, they lock in moisture, promote even heat distribution, and help prevent delicate seafood from sticking or breaking apart during grilling.
Key features: ready-to-use out of the bag; premium cedar flavor; protects delicate proteins and enhances presentation.
Buying Guide: Cedar Plank Purchase Considerations
- Plank size and thickness: Larger planks (like 7×15 inches) suit full fillets or bigger meats; thinner planks work well for smaller portions but may burn faster. Consider your grill grate size to avoid overhang.
- Wood origin and safety: Look for Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured in the USA when possible. Ensure products are food-safe and free from synthetic additives or glues, especially if reusing planks for multiple sessions.
- Pre-soaked vs. dry planks: Pre-soaked planks save prep time, but dry planks require soaking (typically 1-2 hours) to prevent cracking and to maximize moisture transfer during grilling. Read usage instructions carefully.
- Single-use vs. reusable: Many planks are designed for single use for sanitation reasons. If you plan frequent grilling, some brands offer thicker or reusable options with proper cleaning guidance.
- Flavor profile and pairing: Cedar imparts a mild, earthy smoke best suited for salmon, seafood, pork, vegetables, and fruit. Consider your menu and whether you want a subtle or stronger cedar aroma.
- Ease of use and presentation: Some planks are designed to elevate plating and can be served directly on the plank. QR-guided instructions or included tips can help beginners achieve better results.
- Storage and shelf life: Keep planks in a cool, dry place. Pre-soaked boards should be consumed within their recommended timeframe to maintain safety and texture.
- Cost and quantity: For a family or frequent griller, choose multi-pack options with larger or multiple sizes. For occasional use, standard 12-pack sets are convenient.