Ever sliced a tomato and watched it slide across your cutting board? Or maybe your board is stained and warped from years of use. Choosing the right cutting board can feel like a kitchen minefield! It’s a task many home cooks face, and it can be surprisingly tricky.
Picking a cutting board isn’t just about looks. The wrong board can dull your knives, harbor bacteria, and even crack. Many of us get overwhelmed by the choices: wood, plastic, bamboo, and more. Knowing which material is best for your needs, and which brands are reliable, can be a real challenge. That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in!
In this post, we’ll dive into America’s Test Kitchen’s expert insights. We’ll explore their top cutting board picks, covering materials, features, and what makes each one stand out. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect cutting board for your cooking style. Get ready to upgrade your kitchen game and make chopping a breeze!
Our Top 5 Cutting Board America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cutting Board America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Teakhaus Cutting Board – Extra Large (XL) Wood Cutting Board with Grip Handles – Reversible Teak Edge Grain Wood – Knife Friendly – FSC Certified
Rating: 8.5/10
The Teakhaus Cutting Board is an Extra Large (XL) wood cutting board. It has grip handles and is reversible. The board is made of teak edge grain wood. This wood is knife-friendly and FSC Certified. This chopping block is a stunning rectangle. It is known for its strength. The board is ideal for cooking. It comes from sustainable plantations. The dimensions are 24 x 18 x 1.5 inches. It weighs 14 pounds. The board is great for any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The teak wood is very strong. It lasts a long time.
- The edge grain design is beautiful.
- The board is reversible. You can use both sides.
- It has grip handles. They make it easy to carry.
- The wood is knife-friendly. It won’t dull your knives quickly.
- The FSC certification means it is made responsibly.
- The size is great for big tasks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The board is heavy. It might be hard to move.
- Teak wood can be expensive.
The Teakhaus Cutting Board is a great choice. It is durable and beautiful. It is a good investment for any cook.
2. The America’s Test Kitchen Cooking School Cookbook: Everything You Need to Know to Become a Great Cook
Rating: 8.7/10
Do you want to cook amazing meals? The America’s Test Kitchen Cooking School Cookbook is for you! This cookbook teaches you everything you need. It helps you become a great cook. You will learn many different cooking techniques. The book uses clear language and simple steps. It’s like having a cooking school in your kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your new skills.
What We Like:
- The cookbook covers many cooking basics.
- It explains techniques in a simple way.
- There are many recipes.
- The book includes clear photos.
- It teaches you how to cook well.
What Could Be Improved:
- N/A
This cookbook is a great resource for beginner cooks. It also helps experienced cooks. It’s a fantastic way to improve your cooking skills!
3. Dexas Heavy Duty Cutting Board Grippmat
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to chop, slice, and dice with the Dexas Heavy Duty Cutting Board Grippmat! This set includes four colorful and flexible cutting boards. They are the perfect kitchen gadget for any home cook. These cutting mats are designed to make food prep easy and safe. This set is great for all your cooking needs.
What We Like:
- You get four boards in different colors! This helps you avoid mixing raw meat with other foods.
- These boards are flexible. You can easily bend them to pour food into pots and pans.
- The non-slip design keeps the boards steady while you cut.
- They are made of BPA-free plastic. This means they are safe for your food.
- These cutting boards are easy to clean. You can wash them in the dishwasher.
- They are the preferred choice of home chefs and critics alike!
What Could Be Improved:
- None at this time.
These cutting boards are a smart buy for any kitchen. They are a must-have for anyone who loves to cook.
4. GORILLA GRIP 100% BPA-Free Flexible Cutting Board Set of 5
Rating: 9.0/10
The GORILLA GRIP Cutting Board Set is a must-have for any kitchen. This set has five cutting boards. They are made of flexible plastic and are BPA-free. Each board helps you prepare your food safely and easily. The set includes boards for meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit. The colorful boards and food icons make meal prep fun and organized. This set is great for anyone who loves to cook.
What We Like:
- The set comes with five boards for different foods. This helps prevent cross-contamination.
- Each board has a special food icon. You can easily tell which board to use for each item.
- The boards are flexible. You can bend them to pour food into pots and pans.
- They have a textured back. The boards will stay in place on your counter.
- The boards are easy to clean. You can put them in the dishwasher.
- They are BPA-free and safe to use.
- The set includes both large and small boards.
What Could Be Improved:
- The boards might scratch over time with heavy use.
These cutting boards are a great kitchen tool. They are easy to use and clean. This set is a great choice for home cooks of all levels.
5. Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board
Rating: 9.0/10
The Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board, 11.5-Inch x 9-Inch, Slate is a simple, yet effective cutting board. It’s designed for everyday kitchen use. This cutting board is thin, lightweight, and easy to clean. It also features a handy hole for hanging. This board is a great choice for anyone who enjoys cooking.
What We Like:
- The board is dual-sided, so you can use both sides.
- It’s thin and lightweight, making it easy to handle.
- Cleanup is a breeze because it’s dishwasher-safe.
- It is knife-safe, so it won’t dull your knives.
- The board is made in the USA and NSF certified.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size might be too small for some tasks.
- The slate color might show scratches more easily.
Overall, the Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board is a good option. It’s a practical and convenient cutting board for any kitchen. You will enjoy using this cutting board.
Buying Guide: America’s Test Kitchen Cutting Boards
Choosing a good cutting board is super important. It protects your knives and your counters. America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) has tested many cutting boards. This guide will help you pick the best one for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
You want a cutting board that works well. Here are some key features to consider:
- Size: Think about how much space you have. Do you need a small board for quick tasks or a big one for big meals? Measure your counter space.
- Stability: The board should stay still while you chop. Look for boards with non-slip feet or a heavy base.
- Juice Groove: This groove catches juices from meat and vegetables. This keeps your counter clean.
- Durability: The board needs to last. Pick a material that can handle lots of use.
- Knife-Friendliness: The surface shouldn’t dull your knives quickly. A good cutting board is easy on your blades.
2. Important Materials
Cutting boards come in different materials. Each has its own pros and cons:
- Wood: Wooden boards are often beautiful. They can be gentle on knives. Hardwood like maple and walnut are good choices. They need regular oiling to stay in good shape.
- Plastic (Polyethylene): Plastic boards are usually cheaper. They are easy to clean and don’t need oiling. They can scratch more easily.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is strong and sustainable. It’s harder than wood, so it might dull knives quicker.
- Composite: These boards mix materials. They can be very durable and heat resistant.
3. Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a cutting board better or worse.
- Thickness: A thicker board is usually more stable. It also lasts longer.
- Construction: Wood boards made from a single piece of wood are often better. Boards with glued pieces might be less strong.
- Finish: A smooth, well-finished surface is easier to clean. It also looks nicer.
- Care: How you care for the board impacts its quality. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t put wooden boards in the dishwasher.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the cutting board.
- Everyday Cooking: For general use, a medium-sized plastic or wooden board is great.
- Meat Preparation: A board with a juice groove is essential for meat.
- Vegetable Chopping: Any board works well for vegetables.
- Serving: Some wooden boards are pretty enough to use for serving food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size cutting board should I buy?
A: It depends on your needs. Measure your counter space. Think about how much food you usually prepare.
Q: Is a wooden cutting board better than plastic?
A: It depends. Wooden boards are knife-friendly and beautiful. Plastic boards are easier to clean. Both can be good.
Q: How do I clean a wooden cutting board?
A: Wash it with warm, soapy water. Rinse it well. Dry it completely. You can also oil it regularly.
Q: Can I put a wooden cutting board in the dishwasher?
A: No. The dishwasher can damage wooden boards. The high heat and water can warp the wood.
Q: How often should I oil my wooden cutting board?
A: Usually, every few weeks or when the wood looks dry. Follow the oiling instructions from the manufacturer.
Q: What is a juice groove?
A: It’s a groove around the edge of the board. It catches juices from meat and vegetables.
Q: How do I prevent my cutting board from slipping?
A: Look for boards with non-slip feet or a heavy base. You can also place a damp towel under the board.
Q: How long should a cutting board last?
A: It depends on the material and how you use it. With proper care, a good board can last for years.
Q: What if my cutting board gets scratched?
A: Minor scratches are normal. You can sand wooden boards to remove scratches. Plastic boards can be harder to fix.
Q: Where can I buy an America’s Test Kitchen cutting board?
A: Check the America’s Test Kitchen website or online retailers like Amazon.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.