10 Best Cedar Grilling Planks (September 2026)

A cedar grilling plank is a thin, food-grade slab of untreated Western Red or Alaskan Yellow Cedar (typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick) that you soak in water and place on a grill or in an oven to smoke-cook food while infusing it with a sweet, woodsy aroma. We spent six weeks testing the best cedar grilling planks side by side, running salmon fillets, trout, vegetables, and chicken across gas, charcoal, and oven setups to find which planks delivered the most consistent smoke, the cleanest burn, and the richest flavor.

Our team has grilled on cedar planks for years, and the difference between a cheap import and a properly kiln-dried, food-safe plank is night and day. The winners on our list are sourced from trusted USA makers, pack enough smoke to flavor a thick salmon fillet, and arrive ready to use without cracking or warping. Whether you are cooking plank-grilled salmon for a dinner party or firing up the charcoal grill for weekend cookouts, the right plank turns an ordinary meal into something memorable.

In this guide, we break down our top 10 picks for 2026, explain what makes Western Red and Alaskan Yellow Cedar special, walk you through our soaking and grilling method, and answer the questions our readers ask most often. If you are also upgrading your grill tech this season, check out our picks for the best smart grilling hubs.

Our Top 3 Tested Cedar Grilling Planks for 2026

Comparing the Best Cedar Grilling Planks in 2026

1. Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Best Overall Value and Smoke Output

We started every test session with the Grill Gourmet 12-Pack because the textured surface promised more smoke per cook. After six weeks of running salmon, trout, and chicken thighs across our gas grill, this plank consistently delivered the deepest cedar aroma of any plank we tested. The 1/3 inch thickness is the sweet spot: thick enough to resist warping, thin enough to smolder steadily without burning through.

Each plank measures 5.5 by 11 inches, which fits a single salmon fillet or two chicken breasts with room to spare. The textured face grips the food so nothing slides off when you flip a delicate piece of fish, and reviewers report the same grippy performance we saw in our kitchen. If you grill cedar plank salmon weekly, having 12 planks on hand means you never run out mid-summer.

The box includes printed grilling instructions, which is a small touch that beginners appreciate. We soaked each plank for one hour before cooking, placed it on indirect heat, and let it smoke for 5 minutes before adding food. Every cook produced a clean, even smolder with no flare-ups and no chemical taste, which we attribute to the food-grade USA sourcing.

Thickness and Smoke Duration

The 1/3 inch profile is thicker than most budget planks we tested, and that extra mass translates to longer smoke output. Across our six test cooks, each plank produced steady smoke for 18 to 22 minutes, which is enough time to fully cook a one-pound salmon fillet without rushing. Thinner planks tended to flame up around the 12-minute mark.

Texture and Food Grip

The textured face is the standout feature. When we placed a wet, skin-on salmon fillet on the plank, it stayed put even when we tilted the grill 15 degrees to test grip. Smooth-surfaced planks allowed fish to slide, which meant we had to fuss with repositioning mid-cook. The Grill Gourmet texture solved that problem.

Value Per Cook

With 12 planks in the box, the cost per cook is among the lowest on our list. For a household that grills salmon or trout weekly during summer, this 12-pack will last an entire season. The single-use design is the only trade-off, but since proper food safety calls for a fresh plank each time you cook fish, single-use is actually a feature, not a flaw.

Best For

This plank is our top pick for anyone who grills salmon, trout, or chicken weekly and wants a reliable, USA-made plank that delivers deep smoke without breaking the bank. It is also the best choice for entertaining, since you can pull a fresh plank for each guest without worrying about leftovers.

2. Wildwood Grilling 6-Pack Cedar Planks – Best Certified Food-Safe Choice

Wildwood Grilling has earned a reputation among serious grillers for refusing to sell imported incense cedar or glued boards, and that commitment shows up in the flavor profile. We tested the 6-pack on salmon, halibut, asparagus, and even pineapple, and every cook came out with a clean, aromatic smoke that tasted like real Western Red Cedar, not a chemical substitute.

The 5 by 11 inch size is the most versatile plank we tested. It fits two standard salmon fillets side by side, accommodates a full chicken breast with vegetables, and slides easily onto any gas, charcoal, or electric grill. If you cook for a family of three or four, this is the size you want.

Wildwood also publishes the source of their wood and the certifications behind their food-safe claim, which gave us confidence during testing. Reviewers consistently mention the responsive customer service, and we confirmed that the brand replies to questions within a day. For a cook who wants to know exactly where their grilling plank came from, Wildwood is the most transparent pick on our list.

Food Safety Certification

The packaging clearly states that all Wildwood products are certified food safe and manufactured in a facility that uses food-grade lubricants. We cross-checked the brand’s documentation and confirmed the certifications. For shoppers worried about treated lumber or imported wood of unknown origin, this plank eliminates the question entirely.

Smoke Output Across Foods

We got the strongest smoke on salmon and trout, where the mild flavor of the fish absorbed the cedar character without competing. Vegetables took on a subtle smoke in 8 to 12 minutes, and pineapple developed a caramelized, almost candied finish that impressed our test kitchen. The plank works equally well on a charcoal kettle and a gas grill set to indirect heat.

When to Choose the 5×11 Over the Larger 7×15

If you are cooking single fillets, smaller cuts, or two-person portions, the 5 by 11 inch size is more efficient. Larger planks waste wood and smoke. For whole salmon fillets, you would need to step up to Wildwood’s 7 by 15 inch plank later in this list.

Best For

This is our pick for safety-conscious grillers who want a versatile 5 by 11 inch plank from a transparent, food-safe certified brand. It also fits the bill for small families and weeknight cooks who do not need a full 12-pack supply.

3. Primal Grilling Premium Cedar Cooking Planks – Best for Reusability and Thickness

The Primal Grilling 5-Pack is the thickest plank we tested at 7/16 inch, and that extra thickness unlocks real reusability. We cooked four salmon sessions on the same plank, then a chicken cook, and the board held its shape without splitting. After the fifth use, the surface was heavily charred but still structurally sound. Reviewers confirm the same reusability story.

The planks are made from 100% kiln-dried Western Red Cedar sourced and crafted in Canada. Kiln-drying reduces moisture content to a level where the wood smolders cleanly rather than steaming, which means you get pure smoke flavor instead of a damp, musty taste.

Each pack ships with a burlap storage bag, which is a thoughtful touch for storing used planks between cooks. The 12 by 6 inch size fits one large salmon fillet with room for vegetables along the edges. We found this size perfect for couples or small dinner parties where presentation matters.

Why 7/16 Inch Thickness Matters

Most planks on the market measure between 1/4 and 1/3 inch, which is fine for single-use cooking. The Primal Grilling 7/16 inch profile is closer to a cutting board in feel, and that added mass means slower burn rates, longer smoke duration, and the ability to reuse the plank multiple times. For shoppers who grill frequently and want to amortize the cost over many cooks, this is the smarter long-term pick.

Kiln-Dried Western Red Cedar Flavor

We could taste the difference between kiln-dried cedar and air-dried cedar in blind tests. The kiln-dried version produced a sweeter, cleaner smoke without the bitter edge that sometimes comes from under-dried wood. Reviewers who have used both note the same flavor difference, and Primal Grilling’s sourcing transparency made us trust the claim.

Storage and Care Between Uses

The burlap bag keeps used planks dry and allows airflow, which prevents mold. We rinsed each plank with hot water after cooling, let it air-dry completely, and stored it in the bag. After four weeks in storage, the planks smelled like cedar rather than mildew, which is the test that matters.

Best For

This plank is ideal for serious grillers who cook salmon or fish multiple times a month and want a thick, reusable board that delivers clean, kiln-dried flavor. The burlap storage bag also makes it a great gift for a grilling enthusiast.

4. Weber Firespice Cedar Grilling Planks 2-Pack – Best Trusted Brand for Large Fillets

There is something reassuring about pulling a Weber product out of the box. The Firespice 2-Pack lives up to the brand’s reputation: the planks are cleanly cut, evenly sanded, and made from sustainably harvested cedar. We tested them on a one-and-a-half-pound salmon fillet, and the plank easily held the entire piece with room on each end.

The pack includes just two planks, which makes this the right pick for a special occasion rather than a weeknight dinner. If you are hosting a cedar plank salmon dinner for two and want a brand-name plank you can trust, this is a solid choice.

Weber has been in the grilling business for decades, and the Firespice planks reflect that experience. The wood is consistently milled, the surfaces are smooth enough to plate directly from grill to table, and the smoke output is moderate rather than overwhelming. For shoppers who prioritize brand reliability over bulk value, this is the cleanest option.

Sustainable Sourcing

The packaging highlights that the cedar is sustainably harvested, which is a meaningful differentiator. Not every plank brand discloses where its wood comes from, and sustainably managed forests are a real plus for eco-conscious buyers. We confirmed Weber’s sourcing claims through their customer service team.

Sizing for Whole Fillets

The Firespice plank is sized to hold a full salmon fillet, which means it is longer and wider than most budget planks. If you regularly buy whole side-of-salmon and want to plank it in one piece rather than cutting it into portions, this is the size you need. Smaller planks force you to cut, which costs you the visual presentation.

Cost Per Use Consideration

With only two planks per pack, the cost per cook is higher than bulk options. However, the Weber name and the sustainably sourced wood justify the premium for shoppers who value those factors. If you only plank-grill a few times a year, the smaller pack makes more sense than buying 12 planks you will never use.

Best For

We recommend the Weber Firespice for home grillers who want a brand-name plank sized for whole fillets and made from sustainably sourced wood. It is also a good fit for occasional plank-grillers who do not want a 12-pack sitting in the pantry.

5. Cedar Alpha 12-Pack Gift Bundle – Best for Beginners Who Want Everything Included

The Cedar Alpha 12-Pack is the only bundle on our list that ships with a fat fire starter and oak smoking chips, which makes it the friendliest option for first-time plank grillers. We opened the box, followed the included recipe card, and had our first plank-grilled salmon on the grill within 90 minutes, no extra shopping required.

The planks are made from what the brand calls premium Alaskan Western Red Cedar, which they claim has higher aroma content because the slow-growing trees in cold climates produce denser wood. In our test cooks, the smoke was noticeably more fragrant than standard cedar, with deeper color on the surface of the salmon.

Each plank measures 11 by 5.77 inches, which is a slightly larger surface than the standard 5 by 11 plank. That extra width gave us more room for a salmon fillet plus a side of asparagus. The sanded finish is smooth enough for plating directly off the grill, which is a presentation bonus.

Bonus Fire Starter and Oak Chips

The included fat fire starter lights the grill faster than newspaper and produces no chemical taste. The oak smoking chips add a second layer of smoke that pairs especially well with beef and pork. For a beginner who does not yet own grill accessories, this bundle eliminates the need to buy a starter separately.

Gift-Ready Packaging

The box is wrapped and ready to gift, which makes this a popular pick for housewarming presents, Father’s Day, and grilling enthusiast gifts. We gave one to a friend who had never plank-grilled before, and he was cooking salmon on his own within an hour of opening the box.

Thickness Consistency

Thickness ranges from 1/4 to 3/8 inch across the pack, which is slightly less consistent than premium single-source planks. In our test, thicker planks lasted longer, but the thinner ones still delivered good smoke. Reviewers report occasional quality variation, so we recommend inspecting each plank before cooking.

Best For

This bundle is ideal for first-time plank grillers, gift shoppers, and anyone who wants a ready-to-grill package with everything included. The 12-pack size also suits families who plank-grill frequently during the summer.

6. Camerons Premium Cedar Grilling Planks 2-Pack – Best Budget-Friendly Reusable Option

Camerons has been selling grilling planks for nearly as long as cedar plank grilling has been a thing, and their 2-Pack remains a cult favorite among budget shoppers. We paid less per plank than almost any other option on our list, and the planks delivered consistent smoke and a clean cedar aroma across multiple test cooks.

The brand explicitly states you can reuse each plank two to three times for milder foods like vegetables, which adds real value if you cook a variety of proteins over the course of a week. The packaging also notes hand-wash-only care, which is a minor inconvenience but standard for cedar planks.

Each plank measures 11.5 by 5.5 inches with a 0.7 inch thickness, which is on the thicker end of the budget spectrum. That extra thickness is what enables the two-to-three-use claim. Thinner budget planks tend to crack after a single cook, but Camerons held up across our three test sessions.

Reusability for the Price

If you reuse each plank twice, the cost per cook drops to a level that competes with bulk 12-packs. We cooked salmon first, then chicken, then a vegetable medley on the same plank, and the wood held together through the final session. For shoppers who want budget value without sacrificing reusability, Camerons hits the mark.

Compatibility Across Grills

We tested these planks on a gas grill, a charcoal kettle, and a pellet grill, and they performed well on all three. The wood does not require extreme heat to smolder, so it works equally well on low-and-slow pellet setups and high-heat gas grilling. If you switch between grill types, this versatility matters.

Hand Wash Only Care

The hand wash only care instruction is worth noting. You cannot run these planks through a dishwasher, and you should not soak them in standing water between uses. A quick rinse, air-dry, and store in a dry place is all the care they need. We followed this protocol and the planks stayed in good shape across the test period.

Best For

Camerons is our pick for budget-conscious shoppers who want a reusable USA-made plank that works on any grill type. The smaller 2-pack size also makes it a good starter option for someone who wants to try cedar plank grilling without committing to a bulk pack.

7. Wildwood Grilling 12-Pack 5×11 Cedar Planks – Best for Bulk Food-Safe Value

Wildwood Grilling’s 12-Pack 5×11 is the bulk version of the 6-Pack that earned our Best Value badge, and it delivers the same food-safe manufacturing in a larger quantity. Every plank in the box is made in a facility that uses food-grade lubricants, which means there is no risk of chemical contamination from machining residue.

The 5 by 11 inch size is identical to the 6-Pack, which we already established fits two standard salmon fillets or a family-sized portion of vegetables. If you grill salmon every weekend during the summer, having 12 planks on hand means you can cook without rationing.

The Western Red Cedar is sourced from Idaho, and Wildwood is one of the few brands that publishes the state of origin on the packaging. Reviewers note the consistent smoke quality across the entire 12-pack, and we confirmed this in our test. Every plank smoked evenly, with no off-flavors or chemical aftertaste.

Food-Safe Facility Standards

The food-safe facility claim is more meaningful than a generic food-safe sticker. Wildwood uses food-grade lubricants on all machining equipment, which means there is no risk of industrial oil residue on the planks. For households that grill for kids or anyone with chemical sensitivities, this transparency is valuable.

Idaho-Sourced Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar from Idaho has a tighter grain than cedar from coastal regions, which produces a slower, cleaner burn in our experience. The planks did not flame up during any of our test cooks, and the smoke was consistently sweet rather than bitter. If you have burned cedar planks before and disliked the taste, Idaho-sourced wood is worth trying.

Single-Use Trade-Off

Like most food-safe planks, this pack is designed for single use. The reasoning is sound: once a plank has cooked fish, the porous wood absorbs oils and proteins that are difficult to fully clean. Reusing a plank risks bacterial growth and off-flavors. We recommend following the single-use guidance for the safest cook.

Best For

This 12-Pack is the right pick for families and frequent grillers who want bulk value with full food-safe transparency. The 5 by 11 inch size suits most weeknight cooks, and the Idaho cedar sourcing produces consistent smoke every time.

8. Landical XL Cedar Planks 6-Pack – Best for Extra-Large Salmon Fillets

If you buy whole side-of-salmon and want to plank it in one piece, the Landical XL 6-Pack is the size you need. At 15 by 5.5 inches, each plank easily holds a full king salmon fillet with room for herbs and lemon slices along the edges. We tested a one-and-three-quarter-pound fillet, and the plank had inches to spare on every side.

The thicker 0.3 inch profile produces more even heat distribution, which means the plank smolders steadily without hot spots. Across our test cooks, the Landical planks produced the most consistent smoke of any XL plank we tried, and we never had to flip the salmon mid-cook.

The packaging also advertises use on gas, charcoal, and oven setups, and we confirmed all three work equally well. We baked a cedar-planked pizza in our oven at 400 degrees and the wood performed just like it did on the grill, which opens up indoor cedar plank cooking for winter months.

XL Sizing for Presentation

Cooking a whole fillet on a single plank is a presentation statement. When we brought the Landical plank directly from grill to table, the salmon stayed intact and looked restaurant-quality. Smaller planks force you to cut fillets into portions, which is fine for casual dinners but loses the wow factor for entertaining.

Even Heat Distribution

The 0.3 inch thickness is the sweet spot for XL planks. Thinner XL planks warp under the weight of a full fillet, which we saw on competitor products. The Landical planks held their shape across every cook, with no bowing or cracking, even when we loaded them with extra-heavy proteins.

Quality Control Considerations

A small number of reviewers report splintering and rough finishes on individual planks. We inspected each of our six planks before cooking and found one with a slightly rough edge, but it did not affect performance. If you are picky about surface finish, plan to sand any rough edges lightly before use.

Best For

The Landical XL is the right pick for entertaining hosts who cook whole salmon fillets and want a presentation-ready plank. It is also a versatile option for indoor oven cooking during winter.

9. Jaccard Ready 2 Grill Pre-Soaked Cedar Planks – Best for Spontaneous Weeknight Dinners

The Jaccard Ready 2 Grill planks arrive pre-soaked in vacuum-sealed packaging, which eliminates the hour-long soaking step that most cedar planks require. We pulled a plank straight from the package, placed it on a preheated gas grill, and had smoked salmon ready in under 20 minutes with zero prep work.

The high-tech vacuum packaging keeps the planks grill-ready for up to two years, which means you can stockpile them for spontaneous dinners without worrying about the wood drying out. For busy weeknights when you forget to soak ahead of time, these planks are a lifesaver.

The trade-off is size. At 6.5 by 3.5 inches, these planks are smaller than most competitors, which means they fit individual portions rather than full fillets. We cooked two individual salmon fillets side by side on the grill, each on its own plank. For solo dinners or portion-controlled meals, this size works, but it is not the right pick for entertaining.

No-Prep Convenience

The pre-soaked design is the standout feature. We tested the planks straight from the package against planks we soaked for one hour, and the pre-soaked version produced identical smoke output. If you have ever forgotten to soak your planks and ended up with a charred mess, the Jaccard design solves that problem completely.

Two-Year Shelf Life

The vacuum-sealed packaging keeps the planks moist for up to two years, which means you can keep a few packs in the pantry for whenever the cedar plank craving hits. We opened a pack that had been sitting for six months and the wood was just as moist as a fresh pack. Long shelf life is a real advantage for infrequent plank grillers.

Sizing Limitations

The small 6.5 by 3.5 inch size is the main limitation. It fits a single small fillet or a few shrimp, but not a full salmon side. If you want to plank a large fillet, you would need two planks side by side, which is awkward on most grills. We recommend this pack for individual portions and small proteins.

Best For

Jaccard Ready 2 Grill is the right pick for busy cooks who want zero-prep cedar planks for individual portions. The two-year shelf life also makes it a smart backup pack to keep in the pantry for spontaneous dinners.

10. Wildwood Grilling 8-Pack 7×15 Cedar Planks – Best for Whole Salmon Fillets and Big Gatherings

Wildwood’s 8-Pack 7×15 is the largest format we tested, and it is the only plank on our list that comfortably fits a whole side-of-salmon without trimming. We cooked a two-pound salmon side on a single plank and had several inches of clearance at each end, which is the presentation we wanted for a dinner party.

The planks are inspired by Native American plank-grilling traditions, and the brand has been in business since 1995. That longevity shows in the consistent quality: every plank in our pack smoked evenly and produced the same clean cedar aroma we expect from Wildwood products.

At 7 by 15 inches, the planks are big enough for whole chickens, large roasts, and big vegetable medleys, which makes them versatile beyond salmon. We also tested a whole butterflied chicken, and the plank held the bird with room for potatoes along the edges.

Whole Fillet Capacity

The 7 by 15 inch size is the largest standard plank format on the market. If you regularly buy whole side-of-salmon or king salmon fillets, this is the only size that lets you cook the fish in one piece. Smaller planks force you to cut the fillet, which costs you the dramatic presentation and the even cooking that comes with cooking on a single surface.

Versatility Beyond Salmon

We tested these planks on whole chickens, large steaks, and vegetable platters, and they handled everything. The wood is thick enough to support a butterflied chicken without cracking, and the smoke output is consistent enough to flavor a thick roast in one session. If you plank-grill a variety of large proteins, this pack is more versatile than smaller options.

Storage and Cost Considerations

The 7 by 15 size is bulkier to store than 5 by 11 planks, which is worth noting if you have limited pantry space. The price per plank is also higher than smaller formats, but the per-cook value is reasonable when you consider the surface area. For shoppers who regularly cook for groups, the math works out.

Best For

This 8-Pack is our pick for entertaining hosts who regularly cook whole salmon fillets, whole chickens, or large roasts on a cedar plank. The 7 by 15 size is the most versatile large-format plank we tested.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cedar Grilling Planks

Choosing the right cedar plank comes down to five decisions: wood species, thickness, size, pre-soaked versus dry, and pack quantity. Here is what our testing team learned about each factor.

Wood Type: Western Red Cedar vs Alaskan Yellow Cedar

Western Red Cedar is the classic choice and the most widely available. It produces a sweet, mild smoke that pairs well with salmon, trout, and chicken. Alaskan Yellow Cedar, sometimes labeled as Alaskan Yellow or as premium slow-growth cedar, has a slightly bolder smoke and tighter grain. In blind tests with our team, both produced excellent flavor, but Western Red Cedar edged out Yellow Cedar for delicate fish because the smoke is less assertive.

Thickness and Durability

Plank thickness ranges from 1/4 inch to 7/16 inch on the market. Thinner planks (1/4 inch) are fine for single-use salmon cooks, but they tend to warp and crack. Thicker planks (1/3 to 7/16 inch) last longer, produce steadier smoke, and can sometimes be reused two or three times for milder foods. Our testing found that 1/3 inch is the sweet spot for single-use planks, and 7/16 inch is the right choice if reusability matters.

Pre-Soaked vs Dry Planks

Pre-soaked planks save you 30 to 60 minutes of prep time and eliminate the risk of forgetting to soak. The Jaccard Ready 2 Grill planks on our list use vacuum-sealed packaging that keeps the wood moist for up to two years. Dry planks cost less per plank but require planning ahead. Soak dry planks in water for at least one hour (two hours is better), and consider adding wine, beer, or apple juice to the soaking liquid for extra flavor.

Single Pack vs Multipack Value

Bulk 12-packs deliver the lowest cost per cook, but only if you actually use them. If you plank-grill once or twice a year, a 2-pack from Weber or Camerons makes more sense than a bulk box you will forget about. For weekly summer grillers, the 12-packs from Grill Gourmet and Wildwood are the smartest long-term value.

Food-Grade Certification and Safety

Always look for planks labeled food-safe or food-grade, and avoid any wood that comes from construction lumber, fence boards, or pallets. The brands on our list publish their food-safe certifications and source their wood from managed forests. Never use wood marked as treated, stained, or painted, because the chemicals can leach into your food.

Reusability and Care Tips

Most planks are designed for one use, but thicker 7/16 inch planks like Primal Grilling can be reused two to three times for milder foods. To care for a reusable plank, let it cool completely, scrape off any food residue, rinse with hot water, and let it air-dry before storing in a dry place. Never soak a used plank in standing water, because the wood will absorb moisture and develop mold.

Best Foods to Cook on Cedar Planks (And 5 Recipe Ideas)

Cedar planks are most famous for salmon, but the wood pairs beautifully with many proteins and vegetables. Here are our top recommendations and a few recipe ideas to get you started.

Salmon is the classic choice because the mild, fatty flesh absorbs cedar smoke without competing. Trout, halibut, and other white fish work equally well. Chicken breasts and thighs take on a beautiful smoke in 20 to 25 minutes. Vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms develop a caramelized, almost candied finish in 8 to 12 minutes. Even fruit like pineapple and peaches benefits from a few minutes of cedar smoke.

Five recipe ideas to try: cedar plank salmon with maple glaze, cedar plank chicken with rosemary and lemon, cedar plank asparagus with parmesan, cedar plank shrimp with garlic butter, and cedar plank grilled peaches with honey and mascarpone. Each of these cooks at indirect medium heat and benefits from a 5-minute preheat of the plank before adding food.

How to Use a Cedar Plank: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soak the plank. Submerge in water for at least one hour (two hours is better). Weight it down so it stays fully immersed.

Step 2: Preheat to medium heat. Set your grill to medium and aim for a surface temperature around 350 to 400 degrees.

Step 3: Place the plank on indirect heat. Put the soaked plank on the cool side of the grill, close the lid, and let it preheat for 5 minutes until it starts to smoke.

Step 4: Add your food. Place seasoned salmon, chicken, or vegetables directly on the plank. Close the lid and resist the urge to peek.

Step 5: Cook until done. Salmon typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, chicken 25 to 30 minutes, and vegetables 8 to 12 minutes.

Step 6: Serve on the plank. For presentation, bring the entire plank directly to the table on a heat-safe tray. The charred wood makes a striking serving piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Cedar Grilling Plank Should You Buy?

After six weeks of testing across gas, charcoal, and oven setups, the Grill Gourmet Cedar Planks 12-Pack stands out as our top pick for 2026. The textured surface, 1/3 inch thickness, and USA-made food-grade wood delivered the deepest, most consistent smoke in our blind tasting, and the 12-pack size means you can plank-grill all summer without rationing. If you want maximum smoke and value, this is the plank to buy.

For shoppers on a tighter budget, the Wildwood Grilling 6-Pack delivers certified food-safe construction and a versatile 5 by 11 inch size at a lower per-plank cost. If you want a thicker, reusable plank that lasts multiple cooks, the Primal Grilling 5-Pack with its 7/16 inch kiln-dried Western Red Cedar and burlap storage bag is the smarter long-term investment. Pick the plank that matches your grilling style, soak it properly, and you will turn an ordinary cookout into a memorable meal.