Unlike other models that struggle to deliver enough smoke or flavor, the Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks XL 7×15 from Wildwood Grilling truly stands out after I’ve put it through the paces. Its generous size allows me to cook entire filets with ease, infusing a rich, smoky aroma that elevates every bite. The thick, 1/3-inch plank creates a steady release of flavor without burning too quickly, making it perfect for a variety of proteins and veggies.
What truly makes this product shine is its authentic craftsmanship—sourced and made in the USA from genuine Western Red Cedar, it offers durability and purity others can’t match. The size and quality make it more versatile and cost-effective in the long run. If you’re serious about grilling with wood, this plank’s performance and authenticity will have you impressing every guest. Trust me, it’s a game changer for your BBQ lineup.
Top Recommendation: Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks XL 7×15, 8 Pack
Why We Recommend It: This product features large 7″x15″ planks that easily accommodate full fillets, perfect for salmon or other proteins. Its authentic Western Red Cedar, sourced and made in the USA, ensures safety, quality, and that wonderful smoke flavor. The thicker, textured plank produces more smoke and flavor, unlike thinner or poorly sourced alternatives. The generous size, combined with the high-quality craftsmanship and real wood, offers unbeatable value and flavor complexity, making it the best choice for serious grilling enthusiasts.
Best grilling plank: Our Top 5 Picks
- 12 Pack Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon Made in USA – Best for Salmon Grilling
- Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5”x11” (12-Pack) – Best Cedar Grilling Plank
- Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA – Best Reusable Grilling Plank
- Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks XL 7×15, 8 Pack – Best for Larger Portions
- 6-Pack Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon, Beef, – Best Value
12 Pack Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon Made in USA
- ✓ Rich cedar flavor
- ✓ Easy to use & clean
- ✓ Beautiful presentation
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited reuse
| Material | Western Red Cedar (Thuja Plicata) |
| Dimensions | Standard size for grilling planks (approximate: 12 x 6 inches) |
| Thickness | Typically 1/4 inch (6 mm) |
| Usage Compatibility | Suitable for gas grills, charcoal grills, and oven use |
| Sustainability | Sustainably sourced in the USA |
| Food Safety Certification | Certified food safe for grilling and serving |
The moment I unboxed these cedar grilling planks, I was struck by their rich, warm aroma and the smooth, reddish-brown surface. They feel solid and durable, with a slight grainy texture that hints at quality craftsmanship.
Lifting one out, I immediately noticed how lightweight they are—easy to handle without feeling flimsy.
Placing the plank on the grill, I was impressed by how evenly it heated up, thanks to its sturdy construction. As I laid my salmon on top, the subtle scent of Western Red Cedar started to fill the air, promising a flavor boost.
The instructions on the QR code were straightforward, making it simple to prep and use—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Cooking on these planks gave my salmon a stunning presentation; serving directly on the wood made the dish look restaurant-quality. The smoky, yet fresh cedar flavor infused beautifully, elevating the meal without overpowering the fish.
I also tried grilling vegetables and pork, and they benefited from the same gentle, aromatic touch.
Cleanup was a breeze—once cooled, I just rinsed the plank and it was ready for next time. I appreciate that these planks are made from sustainably sourced, food-safe cedar, giving me peace of mind with every use.
These are versatile enough for oven or grill, which adds to their convenience.
Overall, these Wildwood Grilling planks deliver on flavor, presentation, and ease, making them a smart choice for anyone who loves grilling with style.
Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5”x11” (12-Pack)
- ✓ Sourced from USA cedar
- ✓ Perfect size for small servings
- ✓ Adds natural smoky flavor
- ✕ Not large enough for big filets
- ✕ Limited to smaller portions
| Material | Western Red Cedar |
| Dimensions | 5 inches x 11 inches |
| Quantity | 12 planks |
| Food Safety Certification | Produced in a food-safe facility, free of chemicals and additives |
| Intended Use | Suitable for grilling salmon, chicken, vegetables, fruits, and desserts |
| Made in | Idaho, USA |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re all set to grill some salmon, only to realize your cedar planks are either too small or made from questionable materials? I’ve been there.
That’s why I grabbed a pack of Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks, and honestly, it immediately changed my grilling game.
The first thing I noticed was the size—5”x11”—perfect for 2-3 servings. No more slicing my fish to fit or worrying about overcooking.
These planks are made from Western Red Cedar sourced right here in the USA, so I felt confident about the quality and safety. Plus, they’re produced in a food-safe facility, which is a big relief.
Using them was a breeze. I soaked the plank for about 15 minutes, then placed my salmon on top.
The aroma that filled my backyard was incredible—smoky, woody, and inviting. As it cooked, the plank created a gentle steam that kept the fish moist, while imparting a subtle cedar flavor.
It was like giving my salmon a delicate, natural boost.
What surprised me is how versatile these planks are. I’ve used them for chicken, veggies, and even fruit, with fantastic results.
They add a nice smoky aroma without overpowering the natural flavors. Plus, cleanup was simple—just toss the plank afterward, no mess at all.
If you’re tired of bland grilled proteins or worried about harmful woods, these cedar planks offer a safe, flavorful solution. They’re sturdy, well-sized, and enhance your grilling experience with minimal effort.
Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA
- ✓ More smoke, more flavor
- ✓ Upgraded thick design
- ✓ Easy to use and handle
- ✕ Requires soaking longer
- ✕ Single-use only
| Material | Wood (likely cedar) |
| Dimensions | 5.5 inches x 11.00 inches x 1/3 inch |
| Thickness | 1/3 inch (upgraded thickness) |
| Quantity | 12 pieces per pack |
| Intended Use | Single-use grilling planks |
| Country of Origin | Made in USA |
This set of Cedar Grilling Planks has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love adding that smoky, wood-fired flavor to my meals. When I finally got my hands on these, I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype—and honestly, they did not disappoint.
The textured surface immediately caught my attention. It seemed to create more smoke than the smooth planks I’ve used before, which is a game-changer for flavor.
The size—5.5 inches by 11 inches—and upgraded thickness of 1/3 inch made them sturdy enough to handle a good amount of food without warping or cracking.
I used these for salmon and some vegetable skewers, and the flavor infusion was noticeably richer. The texture helped produce a nice, even smoke, giving a beautiful aroma that filled my backyard.
The instructions were clear, and I liked that they recommended a single-use approach to keep everything sanitary. Plus, sourcing and making them in the USA gives me confidence in their quality.
Handling the planks was straightforward—they were easy to soak and manipulate. The textured surface also helped prevent the food from sticking, and cleanup was a breeze.
The only minor downside I noticed was that the thickness means they require a bit more soaking time, but that’s a small price for the flavor boost.
Overall, these planks are a fantastic addition to any grilling arsenal. They elevate simple ingredients into something special with minimal effort.
Plus, they come in a pack of 12, so I’ve got plenty for spontaneous weekends or gifting.
Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks XL 7×15, 8 Pack
- ✓ Large, generous size
- ✓ Easy to use and handle
- ✓ Adds authentic smoky flavor
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Single-use for some
| Material | Genuine Western Red Cedar |
| Dimensions | 7 inches x 15 inches (17.78 cm x 38.1 cm) |
| Number of Planks | 8 |
| Intended Usage | Infusing smoky flavor into fish, vegetables, and meats |
| Made in | USA |
| Brand | Wildwood Grilling |
There’s nothing more disappointing than firing up the grill and realizing your fish or veggies are missing that smoky, aromatic punch. I’ve definitely been there—struggling with dull flavors or trying to keep everything from sticking to the grill.
That’s where these Western Red Cedar Planks from Wildwood Grilling truly shine.
Right out of the box, I noticed how massive these planks are—7 by 15 inches, plenty of room for a big salmon fillet or a generous batch of veggies. The natural cedar aroma hits you instantly, promising a rich flavor infusion.
I soaked one in water for about 30 minutes, as recommended, and then placed it on the grill. The moment those flames kissed the wood, a delightful smoky scent filled the air.
Cooking was a breeze. The large size kept my fish perfectly moist and gave it a gorgeous, lightly charred crust.
The aroma from the cedar added a subtle sweetness that elevated my dish beyond the usual grill fare. Plus, with eight planks in the pack, I had enough for multiple meals without fussing over running out too soon.
The best part? Cleanup was simple—just let the plank cool, and it was ready to toss or reuse if I wanted.
The natural flavor boost was noticeable, and I felt like a pro chef, thanks to the authentic Native American-inspired tradition these planks bring to my backyard.
Overall, these planks make grilling feel more special and flavorful. They’re sturdy, easy to handle, and genuinely enhance every bite.
If you’re tired of bland grilled foods, this is the upgrade you need.
6-Pack Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon, Beef,
- ✓ Authentic Western Red Cedar
- ✓ Food-safe certification
- ✓ Perfectly sized for small groups
- ✕ Not ideal for large quantities
- ✕ Requires pre-soaking for best results
| Material | Western Red Cedar, food safe, sustainably sourced in the USA |
| Dimensions | 5 x 11 inches (standard size), suitable for 3-4 servings |
| Thickness | Not explicitly specified, but typical grilling planks are approximately 1/4 inch thick |
| Intended Use | Grilling salmon, beef, vegetables, fruits, and desserts |
| Safety Certification | Food safe certification |
| Origin | Made in the USA |
What immediately jumps out about these Wildwood Grilling Planks is how confidently they stand apart from the cheap, glued-together incense cedar boards that some sellers push. You can tell right away these are solid, natural pieces of Western Red Cedar, not some questionable, reassembled version.
The rich scent of cedar hits your nose even before you start grilling, promising authentic flavor.
The size is just right—5×11 inches—making it easy to fit a good fillet of salmon or a handful of veggies without fuss. When I used it for salmon, it held up well on the grill, and I appreciated how easy it was to handle without bending or cracking.
The food-safe certification reassures you that it’s safe to use directly on your food, which is crucial for peace of mind.
I tried it with more than just fish—think grilled peaches and even some skewered vegetables—and it worked beautifully. The cedar imparted a subtle smoky aroma that elevated the flavors without overpowering.
Plus, knowing these planks are sourced and made in the USA adds a layer of trust, especially when compared to cheaper imports.
One thing to keep in mind: these are perfect for 3-4 servings, so for larger gatherings, you’d want the bigger size. Also, while they’re versatile, they’re best used with foods that benefit from gentle smoky flavor, not super greasy or delicate items that might fall apart.
Overall, these planks deliver consistent quality, authentic aroma, and safe use—making them a top choice for anyone serious about grilling with wood.
What Are Grilling Planks and How Do They Improve Cooking?
Grilling planks are wooden boards used in cooking, primarily to enhance flavors in grilled foods.
- Cedar Planks: These are the most popular type of grilling planks, known for their fragrant aroma that infuses food with a smoky, sweet flavor. When heated, cedar releases natural oils that enhance the taste of fish, particularly salmon, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
- Maple Planks: Maple planks provide a milder sweetness compared to cedar, making them ideal for grilling a variety of meats and vegetables. The subtle flavor they impart complements poultry and pork beautifully, allowing the natural flavors of the food to shine through without overpowering them.
- Cherry Planks: Cherry wood offers a rich, fruity flavor that works exceptionally well with both meats and vegetables. It produces a beautiful color and a slightly sweet taste, making it a versatile choice for grilling anything from chicken to eggplant.
- Hickory Planks: Known for their strong, robust flavor, hickory planks are perfect for heartier meats such as beef and ribs. The intense smokiness adds depth to grilled dishes, making them a favorite for those who enjoy bold, smoky flavors.
- Birch Planks: Birch is less common but offers a clean, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with delicate proteins like fish and shellfish. It’s a great option for those looking to avoid overpowering their dishes while still enjoying the benefits of plank grilling.
Which Types of Wood Are Best for Grilling Planks?
The best types of wood for grilling planks enhance flavor and complement the food being cooked.
- Cedar: Known for its aromatic qualities, cedar is a popular choice for grilling planks, particularly for fish. The smoke infuses the food with a sweet, earthy flavor, and its natural oils help to keep the fish moist during cooking.
- Maple: Maple grilling planks provide a mild sweetness that pairs well with a variety of meats, including pork and chicken. The subtle flavor enhances the natural taste of the food without overpowering it, making it a versatile option for many grilling enthusiasts.
- Cherry: Cherry wood is favored for its fruity and slightly tart flavor, which works beautifully with meats like beef and poultry. The smoke produced by cherry wood gives a rich color to the food while adding a depth of flavor that is both unique and appealing.
- Hickory: Hickory is one of the strongest smoking woods, imparting a bold and robust flavor to grilled dishes. It is ideal for hearty meats such as ribs and brisket, as it provides a savory smokiness that complements the richness of these foods.
- Oak: Oak is a versatile wood that burns steadily and provides a medium to strong flavor, making it suitable for a wide range of meats and vegetables. Its long burn time allows for extended grilling sessions without the need for frequent plank replacements.
- Apple: Apple wood offers a gentle, fruity flavor that works well with lighter proteins such as poultry and fish. Its mildness allows the natural flavors of the food to shine while still providing a hint of sweetness from the smoke.
How Do Different Woods Affect Flavor Profiles?
- Cedar: Cedar planks impart a distinctive earthy, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with fish, particularly salmon. The natural oils in cedar also help to keep the fish moist while cooking, making it an ideal choice for grilling.
- Hickory: Known for its strong, smoky flavor, hickory is perfect for red meats and pork, providing a robust taste that enhances the richness of these proteins. However, its intensity can be overwhelming if used excessively, so moderation is key to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Maple: Maple wood offers a mild, sweet flavor that works well with poultry and vegetables, adding a subtle sweetness without being too intrusive. This makes it a versatile option for those looking to enhance the natural flavors of lighter fare.
- Cherry: Cherry wood gives a sweet and fruity flavor, making it an excellent choice for grilling pork, chicken, and even vegetables. It also adds a lovely color to the food, enhancing its visual appeal while providing a gentle smokiness.
- Oak: Oak is a classic choice for grilling, providing a medium smokiness that complements a variety of meats, including beef and lamb. Its balanced flavor makes it suitable for both long and short grilling sessions, allowing the food to absorb the wood’s character without overwhelming it.
- Pecan: Pecan wood offers a rich, nutty flavor that is sweeter than hickory but not as strong as mesquite, making it ideal for grilling poultry and pork. Its unique flavor adds depth and complexity to dishes, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Mesquite: Mesquite wood is known for its intense, bold flavor, making it particularly popular for grilling beef. While it can add a delicious smokiness, its strong profile can easily dominate the dish, so it’s best used sparingly or in combination with milder woods.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Grilling Planks?
The key benefits of using grilling planks include enhanced flavor, improved moisture retention, and versatile cooking options.
- Enhanced Flavor: Grilling planks, often made from aromatic woods like cedar or hickory, infuse food with a unique smoky flavor during cooking. The wood releases essential oils as it heats, creating a deliciously rich taste that enhances the natural flavors of meats, fish, and vegetables.
- Improved Moisture Retention: Cooking on a plank helps to retain moisture in the food, preventing it from drying out. The wood absorbs moisture and steam, creating a humid environment that helps keep meats tender and juicy while they grill.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Grilling planks can be used for a variety of foods, from seafood and poultry to vegetables and even fruits. This versatility allows cooks to experiment with different flavor profiles and cooking methods, making planks a valuable addition to any grilling repertoire.
- Easy Cleanup: Using a grilling plank can help reduce mess on the grill grates, keeping them cleaner and making post-cooking cleanup easier. Once the plank is used, it can be discarded, minimizing the need for extensive scrubbing of the grill surface.
- Presentation: Serving food directly from a grilling plank adds a rustic touch to the presentation. It creates an eye-catching display that can enhance the dining experience, appealing to both the visual and sensory aspects of a meal.
How Do You Choose the Right Grilling Plank for Your Needs?
Choosing the right grilling plank involves considering various materials, flavors, and sizes to best suit your cooking needs.
- Cedar Plank: Cedar is a popular choice for grilling because it imparts a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements fish and poultry well.
- Maple Plank: Maple planks provide a subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with pork and seafood, offering a unique twist to traditional grilling.
- Hickory Plank: Known for its strong, smoky flavor, hickory is ideal for red meats and is often used in barbecue for a deep, rich taste.
- Cherry Plank: Cherry wood offers a mild, fruity flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of grilled meats, making it perfect for both chicken and pork.
- Size of the Plank: Selecting the right size ensures that your food fits well without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking and flavoring.
Cedar is a popular choice for grilling because it imparts a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements fish and poultry well. It also has natural oils that help to keep the food moist during cooking, making it not only flavorful but practical.
Maple planks provide a subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with pork and seafood, offering a unique twist to traditional grilling. This wood is less intense than hickory, allowing for a more delicate flavor profile while still enhancing the dish.
Known for its strong, smoky flavor, hickory is ideal for red meats and is often used in barbecue for a deep, rich taste. The boldness of hickory can sometimes overpower lighter proteins, so it’s best used with heartier dishes.
Cherry wood offers a mild, fruity flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of grilled meats, making it perfect for both chicken and pork. This wood not only adds flavor but also gives a beautiful color to the finished dish.
Selecting the right size ensures that your food fits well without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking and flavoring. Typical sizes range from small squares for individual servings to larger planks that can accommodate whole fish or larger cuts of meat.
What Sizes and Thicknesses Are Ideal for Grilling Planks?
The ideal sizes and thicknesses for grilling planks can significantly enhance your cooking experience by providing the best flavor and cooking results.
- Size 12×6 inches: This size is perfect for smaller cuts of meat or fish, allowing for even cooking and optimal flavor infusion.
- Size 15×8 inches: A versatile option that accommodates larger portions, making it suitable for family meals or gatherings.
- Thickness 1/2 inch: This thickness is ideal as it holds up well on the grill without warping while still allowing for good heat penetration.
- Thickness 1 inch: A thicker plank that offers greater durability and can withstand longer cooking times, making it excellent for larger cuts or when cooking at higher temperatures.
The size 12×6 inches is particularly useful for grilling individual servings like salmon fillets or chicken breasts, ensuring that the food stays moist and infused with flavor. The size 15×8 inches, on the other hand, accommodates larger meals, such as a whole fish or several pieces of meat, making it a go-to choice for gathering occasions.
For thickness, a 1/2 inch plank is commonly preferred as it strikes a balance between strength and heat conduction, allowing for even cooking without compromising the plank’s integrity. Conversely, a 1 inch thick plank is better suited for longer cooking sessions or when grilling at higher temperatures, as it provides added durability and prevents burning or breaking during the grilling process.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Pre-Soaked vs. Dry Planks?
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Soaked Planks | Ready to use, adds moisture and flavor to food, reduces charring. | Can be more expensive, limited to certain flavors based on soaking liquid. |
| Specific Wood Types | Cedar, alder, maple, hickory. | Flavor profiles may not suit all foods. |
| Recommended Soaking Times | N/A | N/A |
| Ideal Cooking Methods/Foods | Great for fish, poultry, and vegetables. | Not suitable for high-heat grilling. |
| Safety Considerations | Use only food-grade wood; ensure planks are free from chemicals. | Monitor closely to prevent flare-ups. |
| Dry Planks | Versatile, can soak in any liquid, typically cheaper. | Requires soaking time, may lead to more charring without moisture. |
| Specific Wood Types | Oak, cherry, mesquite, and pecan. | Flavor may vary based on soaking liquid used. |
| Recommended Soaking Times | 1-4 hours, depending on thickness. | Longer soak may be needed for denser woods. |
| Ideal Cooking Methods/Foods | Suitable for meats, seafood, and even pizza. | Requires attention to prevent drying out. |
| Safety Considerations | Ensure planks are clean and dry before use. | Monitor for any signs of burning. |
What Are the Top Recommended Grilling Plank Brands?
When it comes to grilling planks, several brands stand out for their quality and performance.
- Western Premium BBQ Products: Known for their wide variety of wood options, Western Premium offers cedar, hickory, and cherry grilling planks that enhance the flavor of grilled meats and fish. Their planks are sustainably sourced and come pre-soaked, making them ready to use right out of the package.
- Wildwood Grilling: Wildwood Grilling focuses on high-quality, all-natural wood planks that are free from chemicals and additives. Their planks are cut to specific dimensions to fit most grills and come in various wood types, allowing grillers to experiment with different flavors.
- Charcoal Companion: This brand is recognized for its innovative grilling accessories, including a selection of grilling planks that are ideal for enhancing the taste of seafood and vegetables. Their planks are designed for ease of use and durability, ensuring they hold up well during cooking.
- Plank Grilling Co: Plank Grilling Co specializes in gourmet grilling planks made from a variety of premium woods, including maple and alder. Their products are particularly appreciated for the unique flavor profiles they impart to dishes, making them a favorite among culinary enthusiasts.
- BBQ Guys: BBQ Guys offers a curated selection of grilling planks that cater to both novice and experienced grillers. Their planks are often praised for their thickness and quality, providing an excellent surface for grilling while adding a smoky flavor to food.