Updated: July 2025

Got a new griddle and wondering if you can use Crisco for seasoning? You’re not alone! Many griddle enthusiasts ask this question, and while the answer is yes, there’s more to the story. Let’s explore everything you need to know about using Crisco to season your griddle in 2025.

Whether you’re prepping for summer cookouts or just got your first griddle, proper seasoning is the foundation of great griddle cooking. If you stored your griddle properly after cleaning it last season, you’re already ahead of the game!

Proper storage protects your griddle from rust and maintains its seasoning layer. But before you fire it up again, let’s answer that burning question about seasoning your griddle with Crisco.

Quick Answer: Yes, you can use Crisco to season your griddle, but it’s not the ideal choice. While it works in a pinch, there are significantly better options available for creating a durable, long-lasting seasoning layer. Read on to understand why and learn the best practices.

What Is Crisco?

Crisco is a brand of vegetable shortening originally made from cottonseed oil, first introduced in 1911 as America’s first all-vegetable shortening. Today’s formula has been significantly reformulated and typically contains soybean oil, palm oil, and other vegetable oils.

The oils undergo partial hydrogenation to remain solid at room temperature, similar to lard. Modern Crisco has been reformulated to eliminate trans fats, making it a healthier option than the original formula that dominated kitchens for decades.

Crisco’s smoke point is approximately 490°F (254°C), which is quite high and suitable for most griddle cooking temperatures. For comparison, this is higher than olive oil (375°F) and butter (350°F), but lower than specialized high-heat oils.

Curious about griddle temperatures? I tested several Blackstone models to see exactly how hot these griddles can get.

Nutritional profile per 12g serving:

• 0g trans fat (thanks to 2007 reformulation)
• 3g saturated fat
• 6g polyunsaturated fat
• 2.5g monounsaturated fat

The elimination of trans fats is significant for health-conscious cooks. Trans fats increase LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, contributing to heart disease and other health issues.

Why Crisco Isn’t the Best Choice for Seasoning

While Crisco can be used for seasoning, it’s not optimal for creating a durable, long-lasting seasoning layer. Here’s why seasoning experts recommend alternatives:

• Lower polymerization quality – Crisco doesn’t create as hard or durable a seasoning layer as oils with higher unsaturated fat content
• Shorter seasoning lifespan – You’ll need to re-season more frequently compared to better oils
• Less heat stability over time – While the smoke point is decent, it’s not as stable as dedicated seasoning oils during repeated heating cycles
• Inconsistent results – The solid-to-liquid transition can create uneven coverage if not applied properly

Better Alternatives to Crisco for Seasoning

Top-rated oils for griddle seasoning in 2025:

• Flaxseed oil – Creates the hardest, most durable seasoning layer (smoke point: 225°F)
• Grapeseed oil – High smoke point (420°F), neutral flavor, excellent polymerization
• Avocado oil – Extremely high smoke point (520°F), rich in monounsaturated fats
• Canola oil – Affordable, effective, and widely available (smoke point: 400°F)
• Sunflower oil – Great polymerization properties and budget-friendly

How to Season Your Griddle with Crisco (If You Choose To)

If you decide to use Crisco despite the alternatives, here’s the proper method to maximize your results. For comparison, check out what Blackstone officially recommends for seasoning.

Considering bacon grease instead? Learn about using bacon grease for seasoning first.

Step-by-Step Seasoning Process:

• Clean thoroughly – Wash with soap and water (only for new griddles or deep cleaning)
• Dry completely – Use paper towels to remove all moisture and prevent rust
• Heat to 250°F – Preheat your griddle to the proper temperature for oil application
• Melt Crisco first – Heat 2-3 tablespoons in a small pan until fully liquefied
• Apply thin layer – Use paper towels to spread the melted Crisco evenly across entire surface
• Don’t forget edges – Oil the sides, corners, and edges to prevent rust
• Increase heat gradually – Raise temperature to 400°F and cook for 30 minutes
• Let smoke clear – Wait for smoke to dissipate completely before next coat
• Repeat process – Do this 4-5 times for best results (more than with better oils)
• Cool completely – Allow griddle to cool to room temperature between coats

Critical tip: Apply thin, even layers. Too much oil will create a sticky, gummy surface instead of a smooth seasoning layer. With Crisco, less is definitely more.

For more detailed seasoning instructions, check out our comprehensive guide on seasoning your griddle in the oven.

Maintaining Your Griddle’s Non-Stick Surface

Once seasoned, proper maintenance is key to keeping your griddle performing well. Always clean your griddle thoroughly after use to prevent it from becoming a target for unwanted pests.

Proper Cleaning Steps:

• Clean while warm – Easier to remove food particles and grease
• Scrape gently – Use a rubber spatula or griddle scraper to remove stuck bits
• Wipe down – Use paper towels to clean the surface thoroughly
• Hot water treatment – Pour hot water on stubborn spots, let sit 5 minutes, then scrape
• Dry immediately – Prevent rust with thorough drying using paper towels
• Light oil coating – Apply thin layer of cooking oil before storage

If you notice stickiness after seasoning, don’t panic! Check out our troubleshooting guide for fixing sticky griddle surfaces.

Signs Your Griddle Needs Re-Seasoning

Watch for these indicators:

• Food starts sticking – Loss of non-stick properties
• Rust spots appear – Especially around edges and corners
• Patchy appearance – Uneven coloring or bare metal showing
• Metallic taste – Food tastes like metal instead of having clean flavors

The Bottom Line

Can you season a griddle with Crisco? Absolutely. Should you make it your first choice? Only if it’s what you have available. For optimal results in 2025, invest in a high-quality seasoning oil like flaxseed, grapeseed, or avocado oil. These will give you a more durable, longer-lasting seasoning that performs better under high heat and requires less frequent maintenance.

Remember, proper seasoning is the foundation of great griddle cooking. Take the time to do it right with the best materials available, and you’ll be rewarded with years of excellent non-stick performance and delicious meals!