10 Best Grilling Cedar Planks (September 2026) Expert Reviews

There is something almost magical about the way cedar smoke wraps around a fresh salmon fillet on a hot grill. The sweet, woodsy aroma fills your backyard and suddenly everyone gathers near the cooking station, asking what smells so good. I have been grilling on cedar planks for over five years now, and I can tell you that once you try it, there is no going back to plain grates for delicate foods.

Finding the best grilling cedar planks means sorting through dozens of options that all look similar at first glance. But the differences matter. Thickness, wood sourcing, surface texture, and whether the planks are produced in a food-safe facility all affect how your food turns out. After testing more than a dozen products on gas grills, charcoal grills, and even in the oven, I put together this guide to help you pick the right planks for your setup.

In this roundup, I cover the 10 best grilling cedar planks you can buy right now. Whether you are a first-timer looking for a starter pack or a seasoned griller stocking up for the summer, you will find the right fit below. Every product on this list is made from Western Red Cedar, the gold standard for plank cooking, and I share real pros and cons from my own testing and thousands of customer reviews.

Top 3 Picks for Best Grilling Cedar Planks

Best Grilling Cedar Planks in 2026

1. Wildwood Grilling 12-Pack Cedar Planks – Best Overall Pick

I have used these Wildwood Grilling planks more than any other brand on this list, and they consistently deliver that classic sweet cedar smoke I love. The 5×11 inch size is perfect for two to three salmon fillets or a nice arrangement of vegetables. On my first cook with these, I placed a seasoned sockeye fillet on the plank after a two-hour soak, and the cedar aroma filled the entire yard within minutes.

The QR code printed on the package is a small but genuinely helpful touch. Instead of digging through my phone for instructions, I just scanned it and had a step-by-step guide pulled up immediately. My guests were impressed when I served the salmon directly on the plank at the table. That presentation alone makes these worth it for a dinner party.

From a technical standpoint, these planks are made from 100% Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured right here in the USA. Wildwood Grilling operates out of Idaho and uses sustainable forestry practices. The planks are about 3/8 inch thick, which I find is the sweet spot for balancing smoke output and preventing premature burn-through. They work on gas grills, charcoal grills, and even in the oven, which gives you year-round cooking options.

The main downside I noticed is that if you skimp on soaking time, these will char faster than you want. I accidentally pulled one out after just 30 minutes of soaking, and the edges caught fire before my salmon was done. Also, the 5×11 inch size will not accommodate a full side of salmon. You need to cut your fillets into portions or upgrade to a larger plank for whole-filet cooking.

Best for salmon lovers who grill weekly

If you cook salmon, pork chops, or vegetables on the grill at least once a week, this 12-pack gives you a solid three months of plank cooking. The consistent quality from plank to plank means you get predictable results every time. I also love that these are made in a facility focused on food-safe production, so there are no chemical additives or concerns about contamination.

Not ideal for feeding large groups

The 5×11 size limits you to about two to three portions per plank. If you are hosting a backyard party with 10 or more guests, you will burn through this 12-pack in a single afternoon. Consider the Wildwood XL 7×15 planks instead for big gatherings.

2. Grill Gourmet 12-Pack Cedar Planks – Best Value for Regular Grilling

The Grill Gourmet planks caught my attention because of one unique feature: the textured surface. Most cedar planks come smooth, but these have a slightly rough texture that creates more surface area for smoke production. When I compared these side-by-side with smooth planks, I genuinely noticed a more intense cedar flavor on my test batch of salmon. The smoke output was noticeably higher.

With over 11,000 reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most widely tested products in the cedar plank space. The 1/3 inch thickness is an upgrade from thinner budget options and helps prevent burning through during longer cooks. I found these held up well for a full 25-minute salmon cook without any charring through the bottom.

The construction is straightforward: sourced and made in the USA from Western Red Cedar. The 5.5×11 inch dimensions give you a touch more width than the standard 5-inch planks, which makes a real difference when you are trying to fit three portions of fish. Grilling instructions are included in the package, which is helpful if you are buying these as a gift for someone new to plank cooking.

My main complaint is the inconsistency between planks. Out of my test pack, two planks were noticeably thinner than the rest, and one had a rough patch on the cooking surface. None of these issues affected the flavor, but it speaks to quality control. Also, these are strictly single-use planks. After one cook, they are too charred to reuse safely.

Who should grab this pack

If you grill salmon or vegetables regularly and want the best grilling cedar planks for the money, this 12-pack is hard to beat. The textured surface genuinely adds more smoke flavor, and the 1/3 inch thickness holds up well through standard cooking times. It is a practical, no-frills choice that gets the job done.

What to watch out for

Check each plank before use for rough spots or thickness variations. A quick sand with fine-grit sandpaper takes care of any splinters. Also, plan for single use only. These do not hold up well enough for a second cook after a full grilling session.

3. Wildwood Grilling Signature 12-Pack – Premium Food-Safe Quality

The Wildwood Grilling Signature line sets itself apart with a specific focus on food-safe manufacturing. These planks are produced in a dedicated facility using food-grade lubricants, which means zero chemical exposure on your cooking surface. For anyone worried about what might be on their cedar planks, this is the most transparent product I found during testing.

When I opened the package, the cedar aroma was immediately stronger than most competitors. That intensity carried through to the cooking results. My test batch of chicken thighs picked up a deep, earthy cedar flavor that was more pronounced than what I got from thinner planks. The 0.38 inch thickness provides a nice balance between smoke output and structural integrity.

These planks are manufactured in Idaho from Western Red Cedar, and the company clearly takes pride in the sourcing. The 5×11 inch size is ideal for two to three servings, making these planks versatile enough for salmon, chicken, vegetables, and even grilled fruits. I tried peach halves on one plank, and the cedar smoke paired surprisingly well with the caramelized fruit.

The quality control could be better, though. In my 12-pack, two planks had a slight bow, and one had a small split near the edge. None of these issues made the planks unusable, but it is worth inspecting before you soak them. I also noticed that once you open the plastic wrap, the planks start drying out and warping within a few days if you do not store them flat in a sealed bag.

Why we like this one for food safety

If you are particular about what touches your food, these planks offer peace of mind that most competitors cannot match. The food-safe facility certification and food-grade lubricant use mean there is zero risk of chemical transfer. For families with young children or anyone with sensitivities, this is the one I would recommend.

When to skip these planks

If you need to cook a whole side of salmon, these 5×11 planks are too narrow. Go with the Wildwood XL 7×15 planks instead. Also, if you are planning a large barbecue, you might find 12 planks disappear quickly when you are cooking for a crowd.

4. Langxinese 13-Pack Wider Cedar Planks – Best for Larger Portions

What drew me to the Langxinese planks was the extra half-inch of width. At 5.5 inches wide instead of the standard 5 inches, you get noticeably more cooking surface. That extra space matters when you are trying to fit three salmon portions side by side or laying out a row of asparagus spears without crowding. You also get 13 planks instead of the usual 12, which is a small bonus.

The first thing I noticed out of the box was the smoothness. Every plank in my pack was sanded down to a clean, consistent surface with no rough spots or splinters. That is not always the case with cedar planks, and it made a difference when flipping fish. Nothing stuck or tore apart on the smooth wood.

These planks are 0.35 inches thick and made from 100% natural, chemical-free cedar. The company emphasizes restaurant-quality results, and I can see why. The smoke output was consistent across all the planks I tested, and the slightly wider format gives your food more room to cook evenly. The recommended soak time is one to two hours, which I found was the minimum for preventing edge burning.

On the downside, these are designed as single-use planks. After one full cook, the bottom is charred enough that reuse is not practical. I also found that fish could stick to the surface if I did not oil the plank lightly before placing the food. The 0.35-inch thickness is adequate but not as robust as the 1/3-inch or 7/16-inch options on this list.

Best food pairings with these planks

I had great results with salmon, scallops, and thick-cut zucchini rounds. The wider surface lets you cook a protein and a vegetable side on the same plank, which saves time and infuses everything with that cedar aroma. I also tried grilling pineapple rings, and the sweet-smoky combination was outstanding.

Size limitations to consider

While the 5.5-inch width is an improvement over standard planks, it still will not accommodate a full side of salmon. If you regularly cook whole fillets, the Wildwood XL 7×15 planks are a better choice. Also, the 0.35-inch thickness means you need to be vigilant about soaking time to avoid burning.

5. Wildwood Grilling Single-Serve 12-Pack – Best Budget Compact Option

These compact 3.5×7 inch planks from Wildwood Grilling are designed for one thing: single servings. I was skeptical at first about the small size, but after using them for a few weeknight dinners, I came around. Each plank fits one salmon fillet perfectly, and because they are smaller, they heat up faster and start producing smoke in less time on the grill.

My go-to weeknight meal became a single salmon fillet on one of these planks with a side of grilled asparagus on another. Total cook time was about 18 minutes, and cleanup was as simple as tossing the charred planks. For someone cooking for one or two people, these make cedar plank grilling feel practical rather than wasteful.

Like all Wildwood Grilling products, these are sourced and manufactured in the USA from Western Red Cedar. They are produced in a food-safe facility with no chemicals or additives. The 0.3-inch thickness is on the thinner side, which is why they heat so quickly, but it also means you need to watch for burning. I found a 90-minute soak was the minimum for reliable performance.

The main limitation is obvious: the size. If you are cooking for a family of four, you will need at least four planks for a single dinner. At 12 planks per pack, you get three family meals at most. For larger households, the standard 5×11 planks or the bulk pack are more practical choices. Some users also reported the planks were thinner than expected.

Perfect weeknight dinner companion

If you live alone or cook for two, these single-serve planks are a smart buy. They take the guesswork out of portion sizing, heat up quickly, and deliver the same cedar flavor as their larger siblings. I keep a pack in my pantry specifically for quick Tuesday night salmon dinners.

When you need larger planks instead

Anyone cooking for three or more people regularly should skip these and go with the standard 5×11 size. The per-plank cost is not significantly lower, and you will burn through the 12-pack much faster when you need multiple planks per meal.

6. Wildwood Grilling XL 7×15 8-Pack – Best for Whole Salmon Fillets

Finally, a plank big enough for a full side of salmon. The Wildwood Grilling XL planks measure 7×15 inches, which is large enough to lay down a whole fillet without trimming it into portions. I tested these with a 2-pound king salmon side, and it fit perfectly with a bit of room to spare around the edges for airflow.

The extra surface area also makes these planks versatile. I cooked an entire cedar plank salmon dinner for four people on a single plank, which felt satisfying and efficient. The presentation when you bring that massive plank to the table is hard to beat for dinner parties.

These planks are made from Western Red Cedar sourced and crafted in the USA. The finish is smooth with no splinters, which is a detail that matters when you are handling a plank this size. At 3.32 pounds for the pack, each plank has enough heft to feel substantial. Unlike thinner planks, these are potentially reusable for multiple grilling sessions if you clean them carefully after each use.

The trade-off is the price. You get 8 planks instead of 12, and the per-plank cost is noticeably higher than standard sizes. I also found that one plank in my pack had a slight warp, which caused it to rock on the grill grate. A longer soak time of at least two hours is essential for these thicker, wider planks to prevent the edges from igniting.

Ideal for whole salmon fillets and large gatherings

If you regularly cook whole sides of salmon or host dinner parties where presentation matters, these XL planks are worth the investment. The ability to cook an entire fillet without cutting it into pieces is a real advantage, and the planks double as impressive serving boards at the table.

What to know about the price

At roughly double the per-plank cost of standard sizes, these are a premium purchase. But considering that one XL plank replaces two or three standard planks for a full salmon cook, the math works out better than it appears at first glance. You also get potential reusability, which further improves the value.

7. Wildwood Grilling Bulk 50-Pack – Best for Restaurants and Catering

If you go through cedar planks the way I do during peak grilling season, buying in bulk makes sense. This 50-pack from Wildwood Grilling is built for restaurants, caterers, and serious home grillers who do not want to restock every few weeks. Each plank measures roughly 5×7 inches, which is ideal for individual salmon portions.

I tested a batch of these at a backyard party where I cooked salmon for 12 people. Having a dedicated plank for each guest’s portion made service easy, and everyone got their own cedar-smoked fillet. The FSC certification on these planks means the wood comes from responsibly managed forests, which is something I look for.

These are classified as imperfect-grade planks, which is how Wildwood keeps the price down at this volume. That means you might see rough edges, slightly crooked branding, or small surface imperfections. In my testing, these cosmetic issues never affected cooking performance or flavor. The cedar smoke was just as good as what I got from their premium lines.

The 5×7 size is compact enough for individual servings but too small for multiple portions. At roughly 0.2 inches thick, these are the thinnest planks on this list. That thinness means faster smoke production but also faster burn-through. I recommend soaking these for a full two hours and monitoring the grill closely during cooking.

Best for restaurants and high-volume grilling

Caterers, restaurant chefs, and anyone running a large outdoor event will appreciate the economics of this bulk pack. At 50 planks per box, you can serve dozens of individual portions without worrying about running out. The compact size also makes storage simple.

Imperfect grade details to know

Do not expect the polished finish of Wildwood’s premium lines. These planks have rough faces, occasional splits, and small holes. If you are serving paying customers, you may want to inspect each plank before use. For home grilling where presentation is less critical, these imperfections are easy to overlook.

8. Wildwood Grilling 6-Pack 5×11 – Best Starter Set for Beginners

If you are new to cedar plank grilling and want to try it without committing to a 12-pack, this 6-pack from Wildwood Grilling is the ideal entry point. You get the same quality Western Red Cedar and food-safe manufacturing as their larger packs, just in a smaller quantity. I recommend this to friends who have never tried plank cooking, and every one of them has come back wanting more.

With over 3,100 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is one of the most proven products in the cedar plank category. The 5×11 inch size handles three to four servings, and the planks are thick enough to survive a full cook without burning through. My first salmon on these turned out with a beautiful golden crust and that signature cedar aroma.

Wildwood Grilling is upfront about something important: not all cedar planks on the market are safe. They specifically warn against imported planks made from Incense Cedar or glued-together boards. These planks are 100% natural Western Red Cedar, food-safe certified, and made entirely in the USA. That transparency is refreshing in a market where not all products meet the same standards.

The main drawback is the size. Some users report that the 5×11 inch planks are too small for what they consider a full serving. If you are cooking for big eaters or want to load up a plank with fish and vegetables together, you might find these cramped. There is also the standard risk of burning if you skip the soaking step or run your grill too hot.

Perfect starter pack for newcomers

Six planks gives you enough to experiment with different foods without a big investment. Try salmon on your first plank, then chicken thighs on the second, and grilled vegetables on the third. By the time you finish the pack, you will know whether cedar plank cooking is for you. At this price point, it is a low-risk way to start.

When 6 planks are not enough

If you already know you love cedar plank cooking, go straight for the 12-pack. The per-plank cost is lower, and you will not find yourself placing a second order a week later. This 6-pack is best for first-timers and gift-giving.

9. Weber Firespice Cedar Planks – Best Brand-Name Pick

Weber is one of the most recognized names in grilling, and their Firespice cedar planks live up to the brand reputation. These planks are sized for large fillets and deliver the clean, consistent cedar smoke you would expect from a company that specializes in grilling accessories. I tested these alongside the Wildwood products, and the flavor output was comparable.

The sustainably harvested cedar is a selling point for anyone who cares about responsible sourcing. Weber has built their brand on quality, and these planks are no exception. I used them for a batch of cedar plank ribs, and the smoke penetrated the meat beautifully over a longer, slower cook.

From a construction standpoint, these planks use natural cedar wood with no additives or chemical treatments. They are sized to accommodate large fillets, which is helpful if you cook bigger cuts of salmon. The planks can be reused with proper cleaning and storage, which helps offset the higher per-plank cost. After each use, scrub gently with warm water and let dry completely before storing.

The obvious limitation is the pack size. You get only 2 planks, which makes this one of the most expensive options per plank on this list. If you are grilling for a group, you will need multiple packs. There is also the standard concern about burning: without a thorough soak, the edges can ignite before your food is ready.

Why Weber fans love these

If you already own a Weber grill, these planks are a natural complement to your setup. The sizing works well on Weber grill grates, and the quality matches what you expect from the brand. For someone who trusts Weber for their grill, extending that trust to their cedar planks makes sense.

When you need more than 2 planks

At only 2 planks per pack, this is not a practical choice for regular grilling. You are paying a premium for the Weber name and the sustainable harvesting. If you cook on cedar planks more than once a month, go with one of the 12-pack options instead for much better per-plank value.

10. Primal Grilling Extra Thick 5-Pack – Best Premium Reusable Planks

The Primal Grilling planks are the thickest on this list at 7/16 inch, and that extra thickness makes a real difference in performance. These planks are kiln-dried Western Red Cedar sourced and crafted in Canada, and the quality is evident from the moment you open the box. They feel solid, rigid, and well-made compared to the thinner competition.

During testing, I was able to reuse a single plank three times before it became too charred for another cook. That reusability is rare in the cedar plank world, where most products are designed for single use. The kiln-drying process also means the planks have consistent moisture content, which leads to more predictable smoke output and fewer surprises on the grill.

The 12×6 inch dimensions are a nice middle ground between the standard 5×11 and the XL 7×15 sizes. They are wide enough for a substantial salmon fillet and long enough to add a row of vegetables alongside. The planks are free from chemicals and additives, and they deliver a rich, smoky cedar aroma that permeates the food evenly during cooking.

The main barrier is price. At their premium price point, these are the most expensive planks per piece on this list. Stock can also be limited, with only 9 units available at the time of writing. If you want the absolute best reusable cedar planks and are willing to invest, these are worth it. But for casual grilling, the price may be hard to justify.

Best reusable option available

If you hate the waste of throwing away charred planks after every cook, the Primal Grilling planks solve that problem. The 7/16 inch thickness means they survive multiple sessions, and the kiln-dried cedar maintains its flavor even after the first use. Over time, the reusability actually makes these more economical than cheaper single-use options.

When the premium price is hard to justify

For someone who grills on cedar planks once or twice a year, spending premium prices on 5 planks might not make sense. The Grill Gourmet 12-pack or Wildwood 12-pack will give you more planks for less money, even if you throw them away after one use. The Primal Grilling planks are best for dedicated plank cooking enthusiasts who grill regularly.

How to Choose the Best Grilling Cedar Planks

Picking the right cedar planks comes down to four key factors: thickness, size, wood sourcing, and whether you need reusability. Here is what I learned after testing these products side by side.

Thickness matters more than you think

Most cedar planks range from 0.2 inches to about 7/16 inch thick. Thinner planks around 0.2 to 0.3 inches heat up fast and produce smoke quickly, but they burn through faster and are almost always single-use. Thicker planks at 1/3 inch or more give you more cooking time before charring, and some can be reused. For beginners, I recommend at least 1/3 inch thickness. The sweet spot for balancing smoke and durability is around 3/8 inch.

Choose the right size for your cooking style

Standard 5×11 inch planks work for two to three salmon portions. The 3.5×7 inch single-serve planks are perfect for solo cooks. The 7×15 inch XL planks accommodate whole salmon sides. And 5×7 inch planks are ideal for individual restaurant-style servings. Think about how many people you typically cook for and buy accordingly.

Always look for Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar is the standard for plank cooking because of its ideal oil content and flavor profile. It produces a sweet, mild, woodsy smoke that complements fish and vegetables without overpowering them. Avoid planks made from other cedar species or unknown wood types. Some imported planks use Incense Cedar or even glued boards, which are not food-safe. Look for products that explicitly state Western Red Cedar and ideally mention food-safe manufacturing.

Reusability depends on thickness and care

Most cedar planks are designed for single use, especially thinner ones under 1/3 inch. Thicker planks like the Primal Grilling 7/16 inch option can survive three or more cooks with proper care. To extend plank life, scrub gently with warm water after use, let dry completely, and store flat in a dry place. Never use soap, as it can absorb into the wood and affect flavor.

Soaking is non-negotiable

Every single plank on this list requires soaking before use. I recommend a minimum of one hour, but two hours is better for thicker planks. The soak prevents the wood from catching fire and creates steam that helps cook the food. If you have ever had a plank burst into flames on the grill, insufficient soaking was almost certainly the cause.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Plank Grilling

Final Thoughts on the Best Grilling Cedar Planks

Finding the best grilling cedar planks for your needs comes down to how often you grill and what you cook. For most people, the Wildwood Grilling 12-Pack offers the best balance of quality, flavor, and value. If you want maximum planks for your dollar, the Grill Gourmet 12-Pack with its textured surface delivers more smoke per cook. And for those willing to invest in reusable, extra-thick planks, the Primal Grilling 5-Pack is the premium choice that pays off over time.

Whatever you choose, remember two rules: always soak your planks for at least an hour, and always use 100% Western Red Cedar. Follow those basics and your cedar plank salmon will turn heads at every cookout this 2026 season. Happy grilling.