HIC Rectangular Bacon Press and Steak Weight
Best heavy-duty press for achieving perfectly flat, evenly seared meats.
This heavyweight cast iron press from HIC Harold Import Co. is designed to keep bacon flat, preventing curling and shrinking for more evenly cooked, crispier surfaces with less spatter. The durable cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution, which helps speed up cooking times for bacon, steaks, burgers, and pork chops. Beyond meat, this versatile tool is excellent for pressing paninis, quesadillas, and even removing whey when making cheese or thick yogurt. It features a comfortable, stay-cool wooden handle for safe handling during use on stovetops or griddles. Before first use, the press requires simple seasoning to prepare it for optimal performance.
$24.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
81
/ 184
#81 in Grill Presses
Price vs Category Average
-30%
Below average
Material
Cast iron
/ Cast iron
Who it's for
- Grill masters prioritizing long-term durability and heat retention
- Safety-conscious chefs wanting a comfortable, heat-resistant grip
- Home cooks seeking restaurant-quality searing and flat, crispy bacon
Who should skip it
- Busy cooks preferring low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe kitchen tools
- Home chefs with limited storage space in cramped kitchens
- Users who prefer maintenance-free equipment without loose hardware
Performance breakdown
Heat retention
Heavyweight cast iron provides consistent, steady heat for perfect searing.
Surface coverage
Rectangular footprint is ideal for bacon strips and standard sandwich sizes.
Ergonomic handling
Stay-cool wooden handle ensures safe, comfortable maneuvering over a hot griddle.
Versatility
Transitions seamlessly from crisping bacon to pressing paninis and draining cheese.
Maintenance requirements
Requires initial seasoning and hand washing to maintain the non-stick surface.
Build durability
Rugged cast iron construction is built to last for generations.
Key Specs
Material
Cast iron
Handle Material
Wood
Cooking Surface Dimensions
6.75-inches x 4-inches
Binding
Kitchen
Care
Hand wash recommended
Requires seasoning before first use
Features
- Flattens bacon to prevent curling and shrinking for even cooking
- Reduces spatter during cooking
- Distributes heat evenly for faster cooking times
- Versatile for pressing sandwiches, meats, and dairy products
- Wooden handle remains cool during use
- Easy to clean and re-season if necessary
What customers say
Consumers value the reliable performance and enduring quality of this rectangular press. Its substantial weight is the key feature, ensuring bacon remains perfectly flat and preventing frustrating curling during cooking. The durable cast iron construction feels trustworthy and built to last, making it a staple kitchen tool. While the handle requires careful handling due to heat retention, users agree this press delivers excellent utility and consistent results, justifying its place on the stovetop.
Know before you buy
Yes, seasoning is essential. It creates a natural, non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking to the cast iron and helps protect the metal from rust.
No, you should hand wash this press only. Dishwashers can strip the seasoning and cause the cast iron to rust, and the wooden handle may crack or warp in high-heat cycles.
The handle is designed to stay cool during standard stovetop or griddle use. However, you should avoid placing the handle directly over an open flame or in an oven, as the wood can scorch or burn.
The cooking surface measures 6.75 inches by 4 inches. It is compact enough to fit comfortably in most standard-sized skillets, but you should measure your pan's base to ensure it sits flat.
Absolutely. It is excellent for searing steaks and burgers, pressing paninis or quesadillas, and even draining whey when making homemade cheese or yogurt.
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$25