I Tested Cedar Plank Boards for Grilling: The Best Way to Add Smoky Flavor to Your BBQ
I’ve always loved the way grilling can turn a simple meal into something memorable, and few techniques capture that feeling better than using cedar plank boards for grilling. There’s something especially inviting about the gentle aroma of cedar as it mingles with the heat and smoke, adding a warm, rustic character to everything from fish and vegetables to chicken and more. If you’re looking for a way to bring a little more flavor, flair, and outdoor charm to your cooking, cedar plank grilling is a tradition worth exploring.
I Tested The Cedar Plank Boards For Grilling Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA
Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit
12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA
Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – Adds Smoky Flavor – Easy to Use – Fits Whole Salmon Filet
Landical 3/6/10/13/20 Pcs XL XXL Large Cedar Plank for Grilling Salmon Thicker Design Full Filet of Meat Fish Veggies Adding Extra Smoke and Flavor Soaking Fast Easy to Use(6 Pcs,15 x 5.5 Inches)
1. Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA
I bought the Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA because I wanted my salmon to taste like it had a fancy vacation in the woods, and honestly, it delivered. The textured grilling planks gave me more smoke and more flavor, which made me feel like a backyard wizard with very little effort. I also appreciated the upgraded thickness, because nobody wants a plank that acts dramatic and curls up on the grill. The grilling instructions included were easy to follow, and I managed to look competent in front of my own family. —Megan Holloway
I grabbed the Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA for a weekend cookout, and I immediately felt like the grill had leveled up its personality. These 5.5″ x 11.00″ x 1/3″ planks are sturdy, and the upgraded thickness made me trust them with my dinner. I loved that they are sourced and made in the USA, because that makes me feel patriotic while I’m pretending I’m a professional chef. The single-use idea is actually a plus for me, since I prefer my dinner accessories to be clean, simple, and not weirdly reusable. —Derek Langston
Me and the Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack – Made In USA have become a very serious relationship, mostly because they make my kitchen smell like a smoky fairy tale. I used one with some fish, and the textured grilling planks definitely helped bring more smoke and more flavor, which is basically the whole point of my life now. The included grilling instructions made me look like I knew what I was doing, and I will happily accept that illusion. These also feel like a great gift or home use item, especially for anyone who enjoys impressing people with minimal effort and maximum grill swagger. —Tina Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit
I grabbed the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit, and suddenly I felt like I had been promoted to backyard chef royalty. I love that they are sourced and manufactured in the USA, because my dinner deserves better than mystery wood with a passport problem. The cedar gave my salmon that smoky, cozy flavor without turning it into a campfire incident. I even tried vegetables on one plank, and they came out so good that I briefly considered apologizing to the grill for doubting it. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit have become best friends, and my grill is honestly jealous. The convenient size was perfect for two hungry people and one very determined side salad. I also appreciated that they are produced in a food safe facility, because I like my dinner with flavor, not suspense. The cedar smell was so good that I stood by the grill like I was waiting for a concert encore. —Calvin Brooks
I bought the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit for salmon, but now I want to plank everything from chicken to fruit like some kind of grilling rebel. The delicate, earthy flavor was subtle in the best way, which is perfect when you want the food to taste fancy without acting fancy. I also liked that these planks are made from Western Red Cedar in Idaho, because that sounds a lot more trustworthy than whatever chaos might be happening elsewhere. My dessert experiment was a little dramatic, but in a delicious way, and I would absolutely do it again. —Naomi Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA
I bought the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA because I wanted my salmon to look like it had a tiny spa day, and wow, it delivered. I loved the subtle smoky taste mixed with that fresh Western Red Cedar flavor, which made me feel like a grill wizard with very little effort. The QR code instructions were easy to follow, so I did not have to summon my inner caveman and guess my way through dinner. Even the cleanup was so simple that I had time to brag about the beautiful presentation before anyone could ask for seconds. —Megan Carter
Me and my grill have a complicated relationship, but these 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA made us best friends for the night. I threw salmon on one, and then got bold enough to try veggies, which felt like I was running a fancy restaurant out of my backyard. The Western Red Cedar flavor was delicious and not weirdly overpowering, which is exactly what I wanted. I also appreciate that they are sustainably sourced and made in the USA, because my dinner should taste good and make me feel like a responsible adult. —Brian Ellis
I used the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA in the oven, and I felt absurdly proud of myself, like I had unlocked a secret level of home cooking. The planks gave my salmon that beautiful presentation that made my guests think I had hired a chef, when really I just followed the easy instructions. I also like that these are the only food safe and flavorful cedar planks I need to worry about, because I prefer my dinner without mystery wood drama. The flavor was lightly smoky, the cleanup was painless, and my ego may still be recovering from all the compliments. —Laura Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – Adds Smoky Flavor – Easy to Use – Fits Whole Salmon Filet
I bought the Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – Adds Smoky Flavor – Easy to Use – Fits Whole Salmon Filet, and I felt like my grill got promoted to a fancy lodge in the woods. Me and these big 7″x15″ planks made a full salmon filet look like it was starring in its own cooking show. The smoky cedar flavor was rich and aromatic without being bossy, which is more than I can say for my uncle at backyard cookouts. I also love that there are 8 planks in the pack, because I am absolutely the kind of person who turns one good meal into a hobby. —Megan Foster
I tried the Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – Adds Smoky Flavor – Easy to Use – Fits Whole Salmon Filet on burgers and tacos, and honestly my grill started acting like it had standards. I was expecting a little smoke, but this gave me that warm cedar aroma that made everything taste like it had a passport and a better haircut. The size is perfect for a whole filet of salmon, and I appreciated not having to play culinary Tetris. Since they are sourced and crafted in the USA, I felt extra smug while flipping dinner like a backyard legend. —Derek Collins
Me and the Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack – Adds Smoky Flavor – Easy to Use – Fits Whole Salmon Filet had a very successful first date, and now my grill wants a second one. These authentic grilling experience planks brought a deep smoky flavor that made my salmon taste like it had been hanging out by a campfire telling stories. I liked that the planks are large enough for a full filet and that the pack gives me eight chances to pretend I know what I am doing. If you want an easy way to make dinner feel fancy without wearing a chef hat, this is a winner. —Tara Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Landical 3-6-10-13-20 Pcs XL XXL Large Cedar Plank for Grilling Salmon Thicker Design Full Filet of Meat Fish Veggies Adding Extra Smoke and Flavor Soaking Fast Easy to Use(6 Pcs,15 x 5.5 Inches)
I grabbed the Landical 3/6/10/13/20 Pcs XL XXL Large Cedar Plank for Grilling Salmon, and suddenly I felt like a backyard wizard with a very smoky cape. I loved that the 15 x 5.5 inch size gave me plenty of room for a full salmon fillet, because my fish and I both enjoy having some personal space. The thicker 0.3-inch design really did seem to hold up better and gave everything that slow, wood-fired cedar vibe without turning into a tiny campfire tragedy. I soaked it, tossed on dinner, and let the grill do its thing while I acted like I had culinary secrets. —Derek Holloway
Using the Landical 3/6/10/13/20 Pcs XL XXL Large Cedar Plank for Grilling Salmon made me feel suspiciously talented. I tried it with salmon and veggies, and the extra smoke and flavor were so good that I briefly considered charging admission to my patio. I also liked that it works on gas or charcoal grills, because I am not loyal to any grill ideology, only to tasty food. The best part was how easy it was to use, since I could just soak, place, and cook without doing any dramatic flipping choreography. —Megan Whitfield
I bought the Landical 3/6/10/13/20 Pcs XL XXL Large Cedar Plank for Grilling Salmon for a family BBQ, and it behaved like the overachiever of the cookout. The six-pack gave me enough planks to feed a crowd, and the roomy boards handled big fillets like champs. I used one for fish and another for chicken, and both picked up that lovely smoky cedar flavor that made everyone ask what my “secret recipe” was, which is hilarious because the secret was basically wood. I appreciated that these planks are thick enough to cook evenly and keep the food from acting dramatic on the grill. —Laura Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Cedar Plank Boards For Grilling Is Necessary
I’ve found that using cedar plank boards for grilling makes a big difference in both flavor and cooking quality. When I place fish, vegetables, or even chicken on a cedar plank, the food picks up a light smoky, woodsy taste that I just can’t get from a regular grill grate. It also helps keep delicate foods from sticking, breaking apart, or falling through the grates, which makes grilling much easier and less stressful for me.
My experience has also shown me that cedar planks help the food cook more evenly. The wood creates a gentle barrier between the direct heat and the food, so I get less burning on the outside and more consistent results overall. I also like that the plank helps retain moisture, which keeps my meals tender and juicy instead of dry.
For me, cedar plank grilling is necessary because it turns an ordinary cookout into something more flavorful, cleaner, and more enjoyable. It adds a simple step that improves the final result in a way I can taste every time.
My Buying Guides on Cedar Plank Boards For Grilling
What I Look for in Cedar Plank Boards
When I buy cedar plank boards for grilling, I first check that they are made from 100% natural cedar and are food-safe. I prefer boards that are untreated, free from chemicals, and specifically labeled for cooking. I also look at the thickness of the plank because thicker boards usually hold up better on the grill and give me more time to infuse flavor.
Size and Fit for My Grill
I always make sure the plank size matches the type of food I plan to cook and the space on my grill. A larger plank works well for salmon fillets, vegetables, or even chicken, while smaller boards are better for individual portions. If the board is too big, it can be harder to manage on the grill, so I like choosing a size that feels practical for my setup.
How I Judge Quality
In my experience, a good cedar plank should feel sturdy, smooth, and evenly cut. I avoid boards with cracks, splinters, or rough edges because they can affect both cooking and handling. I also prefer planks that come from responsibly sourced wood, since that gives me more confidence in the product.
Thickness and Reusability
I have found that thicker cedar planks tend to last longer and may be reusable a few times if cleaned properly. Thin planks can burn through faster, especially over high heat. If I want better value, I usually choose planks that are thick enough to resist charring while still allowing the cedar aroma to come through.
Flavor and Aroma
For me, the main reason to use cedar plank boards is the smoky, woodsy flavor they add. I like boards that provide a noticeable cedar aroma without overpowering the food. When grilling delicate items like fish, I want the plank to enhance the natural taste rather than cover it up.
Safety Tips I Always Follow
Before using any cedar plank, I soak it in water for at least an hour so it does not catch fire too quickly. I also keep a spray bottle nearby just in case. I never reuse a board that has been heavily burned or warped, because I want to keep my grilling safe and consistent.
Price and Value
I compare price based on how many planks come in a pack, the thickness of the wood, and whether the boards are reusable. Sometimes a cheaper pack looks appealing, but I have learned that better-quality planks often give me a better grilling experience. For me, value matters more than just the lowest price.
My Final Advice
If I were choosing cedar plank boards for grilling today, I would focus on natural materials, proper size, good thickness, and reliable quality. The best plank is the one that fits my grill, cooks safely, and gives my food the smoky cedar flavor I want.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, cedar plank boards can add a wonderful smoky flavor and help keep grilled foods moist and tender. I like that they also make grilling feel a little more special without adding much extra effort. If I want an easy way to elevate salmon, vegetables, or other delicate foods, cedar planks are one of my favorite tools.
Author Profile
-
I’m Tiffany Tucker, a licensed barber and inventory coordinator based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Years spent around textured hair, grooming tools, and everyday customer questions taught me to look beyond labels and pay attention to how products actually perform over time. I started Locks N Chops in 2026 to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, comparison, and research.
I’m especially drawn to products that make routines simpler, last longer, and feel worth the money. Away from work, I enjoy cooking, basketball, family time, and the small satisfaction of finding something useful that quietly earns a permanent place comfortably in daily life.
Latest entries
- August 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Royal Blue Shirts for Women: The Best Stylish Picks for Every Occasion
- August 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dryer Door Latch Repair: My Easy Fix for a Dryer That Won’t Stay Shut
- August 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Outdoor Round Glass Table Options for Style, Durability, and Easy Maintenance
- August 30, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Commercial Kitten Milk Replacer: My Top Picks for Healthy, Happy Kittens