Fire up the propane! Summer is just around the corner, which means barbecue season is basically here. However, if you're a home cook who loves a grilled steak, but doesn't have access to an outdoor grill, this can be a tricky time of year. That’s the predicament my boyfriend and I faced when moving into our new apartment. Although we do have a small outdoor space attached to our unit, our landlord was quick to inform us that we were prohibited from putting any furniture outside — yes, including a grill.

Instead of kissing our dreams of grilled burgers, hot dogs and veggies goodbye, we ordered a Lodge stovetop grill-griddle combo, which has quickly become a go-to strategy for our home cooking routine.

Made in America, Lodge is known for creating high-quality cast-iron cookware (our test kitchens love the brand's cast iron skillets) that doesn’t break the bank — and this griddle is no exception. It fits snug over two burners on a gas range, so you can simply place it on top of the grates, ignite the burners, and the griddler will distribute heat quickly and evenly.

Oh, and did I mention this pick is reversible? Yup! The ribbed side is perfect for grilling meats and veggies, and a smooth griddle surface is ideal for making pancakes and sizzling eggs. And thanks to its raised edges, you don’t have to worry about excess grease or yolk mucking up your stovetop.

It’s only been a few months since we purchased the griddle and it’s already become an asset whenever we make plant-based burgers for dinner parties or my boyfriend’s mouth-watering steak for romantic nights in. Admittedly, we have yet to make pancakes or fried eggs but trust me when I say that I’m already eying some recipes.

The only caveat is, like most of Lodge’s popular wares, this griddle is cast-iron so it requires some maintenance. This griddle can get a little smokey when you don’t clean or coat it to perfection. But if a little elbow grease is the price for a great indoor grilling session, I’d say it’s well worth it.

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