12 Best Cast Iron Skillet 2023 – Our Unbiased Feedback

There is nothing better than a cast-iron skillet for cooking. You can literally do anything with it from roasting that chicken to searing those ribs.

If you have never used cast-iron cookware, you should know that most people appreciate its heat retaining properties. Moreover, it takes a low technology level to manufacture and shape cast iron cookware.

To protect it from corrosion and create a non-stick surface, seasoning is used. Seasoning is used to protect bare cast iron from rusting and to create a non-stick surface. If you are on the lookout for the best cast iron skillet, stay put to find out more.

Best Cast Iron Skillet

Top-Rated 12 Cast Iron Skillet in 2023: Comparison List

You might not have the time to spend reading through our detailed articles but worry not! This comprehensive list has got you covered.

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Editor's Choice
Lodge 10 Inch Cast Iron Chef Skillet. Pre-Seasoned Cast...
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle...
Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron...
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Hot Handle...
Utopia Kitchen 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet -...
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 11-3/4-Inch Skillet with...
Product Name
Lodge 10 Inch Cast Iron Chef Skillet. Pre-Seasoned Cast...
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle...
Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron...
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Hot Handle...
Utopia Kitchen 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet -...
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 11-3/4-Inch Skillet with...
Dimensions
16.6 x 10.5 x 2.1 inches
12.9 x 16.9 x 2.6 inches
20.5 x 13.2 x 2.8 inches
15.4 x 10.8 x 3.3 inches
17 x 12.5 x 2.3 inches
13.2 x 12 x 1.7 inches
Weight
4.55 pounds
7.55 pounds
6.85 pounds
5.77 pounds
8.11 pounds
7.5 pounds
Prime Status
-
-
Editor's Choice
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Lodge 10 Inch Cast Iron Chef Skillet. Pre-Seasoned Cast...
Product Name
Lodge 10 Inch Cast Iron Chef Skillet. Pre-Seasoned Cast...
Dimensions
16.6 x 10.5 x 2.1 inches
Weight
4.55 pounds
Prime Status
Check Latest Price
Picture
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle...
Product Name
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle...
Dimensions
12.9 x 16.9 x 2.6 inches
Weight
7.55 pounds
Prime Status
Check Latest Price
Picture
Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron...
Product Name
Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron...
Dimensions
20.5 x 13.2 x 2.8 inches
Weight
6.85 pounds
Prime Status
Check Latest Price
Picture
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Hot Handle...
Product Name
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Hot Handle...
Dimensions
15.4 x 10.8 x 3.3 inches
Weight
5.77 pounds
Prime Status
-
Check Latest Price
Picture
Utopia Kitchen 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet -...
Product Name
Utopia Kitchen 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet -...
Dimensions
17 x 12.5 x 2.3 inches
Weight
8.11 pounds
Prime Status
Check Latest Price
Picture
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 11-3/4-Inch Skillet with...
Product Name
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 11-3/4-Inch Skillet with...
Dimensions
13.2 x 12 x 1.7 inches
Weight
7.5 pounds
Prime Status
-
Check Latest Price

1. Lodge-10 Inch Cast Iron Skillet Pre-Seasoned

When cooking you need the right tool for the job. This cast iron is manufactured by Lodge, a Tennessee based cookware and accessories company founded in 1896.

Product Description

As the name suggests, the skillet is crafted from cast iron. It is thick and it weighs 4.45 pounds. Its dimensions are 16.6 x 10.5 x 2.1 inches. This is a medium-sized skillet that can cook food for a small to medium-sized family.

Because of its thickness, it retains heat well and has even heat distribution. Its flat bottom makes it ideal for cooking on all heat sources including induction stoves. It has sloped sides.

It also has a tear dropped handle. Moreover, it has a helper handle which supports carrying the skillet.

It is constructed with convenient features, there are pouring spouts on the sides of the skillet, which you can use to pour oil or soup from the skillet. In addition to that, the handle has a hole which makes it easy to peg it for convenient storage.

This cookware is seasoned in the factory and ready to use. Besides that, it is moderately priced.

Other Features and Benefits

The manufacturer has various sizes to suit different cooking needs ranging from a 3.5 inch to a 15 inch. To maintain a cast iron skillet, it requires to be seasoned after every use. The process is fast and simple.

This is how to season it, after cooking with the skillet, wash it with hot water and then wipe it with a dry kitchen towel or alternatively, you can use a paper towel. Then spread some cooking oil on the cooking surface of the skillet and that is it.

Now keep it in a dry place until when you will need it next.

Pros

  • You can use it on all heat sources
  • It has a helper handle
  • It comes pre-seasoned from the factory and ready to use
  • The surfaces are non-stick
  • The handle has a pegging hole
  • Designed for decades of cooking
  • Various sizes available
  • Pouring spouts on the sides of the skillet

Cons

  • The handles get hot when cooking
  • Shallow sides

2. Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Skillet 11-3/4-Inch

Did you know that a cast iron cookware releases trace amounts of iron into your food when cooking? This skillet is manufactured by Le Creuset a French company. The skillet is crafted through a special process, first it is cast in sand molds then it is hand-inspected by French skilled men.

It is uniquely designed and comes in a variety of colors to suit different styles and kitchen décor themes.

You can use it on any heat source like a grill, induction stove and oven baking. You can bake, sear, stir-fry or use this skillet for slow cooking. What’s more, you can use it to serve food if you cover it with a lid to prevent the food from getting cold.

Product Description

The skillet weighs 6.8 pounds, its dimensions are 13.5 x 18.8 x 1.9 inches while its diameter is 11-3/4-Inch.

The skillet is thick which helps it to retain heat and distribute heat evenly when cooking. The skillet has pouring spouts which you can use to pour soups or cooking oil from the pan. In addition to that, the skillet has a black enamel finish that will last and therefore it will not require seasoning.

The black finish can be exposed to high temperatures.

Other Features and Benefits

It has two handles, the main handle, and the helper handle. The helper handle makes it easy to lift the heavy skillet especially when it is full. It is dishwasher safe for your convenience.

The handles have holes which makes it possible to hook them.

Pros

  • Hooking hole on the handles
  • You will not need to season the skillet
  • It has a helper handle
  • There are different colors to choose from
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Two pour spouts on the sides for drip-free pouring

Cons

  • It is quite pricey
  • Shallow sides
  • The handle is a heat conductor and gets hot when cooking

Also Read: Best Coffee Storage Containers

3. Victoria Cast Iron Skillet-12 Inch Large Size, Seasoned, Kosher Certified

A cast-iron skillet will make a great addition to your collection of cookware. You can use this cookware on various heat sources including campfire, stove, grill, and oven.

In addition, you can use it to make a variety of dishes including searing steaks, sautéing pork chops, roasting chicken among other dishes. Worth noting, in comparison to other brands in the market, it comes at a very low price point.

Product Description

This cast-iron skillet has a diameter of 12 inches, its dimensions are 20.5 x 13.2 x 2.8 inches and it weighs 6.35 pounds. As such, it is large, deep and it has a wide surface. It is sizeable enough to make food for a large family.

Moreover, because it is thick, it has superior heat retention capacities and even heat distribution for even cooking of food. In fact, it can keep food hot for up to 15 minutes and you can use it for serving food.

For ergonomics, the handle is big and curved for a good grip. More so, the skillet has a helper handle which works as a support handle when lifting foods from the stove. What’s more, the handles have hanging holes for hooking, which saves storage space.

The skillet is factory seasoned with 100% flaxseed oil. The flaxseed oil is a vegan vegetable oil that is Kosher certified, it is free from PFOA and PTFE free.

Other Features and Benefits

There are other size models ranging from a 6.5 inch to a 14.99-inch size available. Please note that the skillet will require to be seasoned after every use. The good thing is that it is a simple process. You simply wash it with hot water and then apply cooking oil on the interior surfaces.

Pros

  • It can be used on different heat sources
  • It is big enough to make food for a large family
  • It comes at a bargain price
  • The skillet is covered by the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty
  • Different sizes available to suit different cooking needs
  • Two pouring spouts
  • Helper handle
  • Hanging holes on the handles
  • It comes pre-seasoned with flaxseed oil

Cons

  • The handle gets hot when on a fire
  • It has to be seasoned after every use

4. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Seasoned, Genuine Leather

While cast-iron cookware maintains ancient cooking traditions, smart innovations in the cookery industry have added more functional features. This skillet is manufactured by Lodge which has been in the industry of making cookware since 1896. Cast iron skillets are durable, lasting several decades.

The cast-iron skillet is unique because it comes with a hot leather handle holder. The hot handle holders are a product of ball glove maker Nokona.

You can use this skillet on different heat sources, including oven, stoves or campfires.

Product Description

This skillet is round in shape and has a diameter of 10.25 inches. It has a weight of 3.75 pounds and its dimensions are 15 x 10.7 x 3.2 inches. The skillet is therefore thick for even heat distribution and effective heat conduction.

It is designed with two pouring spouts for drip-free pouring. The helper handle supports lifting the skillet especially when it is full. What’s more the handles have holes for hooking the skillet for convenient storage.

Apart from that, the leather handle holder can withstand heat of up to 600°F providing you with a secure grip while at the same time protecting your hands from the heat.

The skillet is seasoned with 100% synthetic oil, the seasoning oil has no chemicals or coatings.

Other Features and Benefits

It is moderately priced and there are different sizes available to choose from. Additionally, you can choose from a leather or silicone hot handle holder.

This skillet like other cast iron skillets gets better with continued use. It only requires to be seasoned after every use. Worth noting is that it is a simple process that takes under two minutes. The skillet should be washed with hot water (you can use a mild dish detergent). Then dry it with a paper towel or dry kitchen towel. Then season it by applying a cooking oil and after that, store it in a dry place.

Pros

  • It will last several decades
  • A hot handle holder is provided
  • Two pouring spouts
  • Hooking hole
  • A helper handle
  • It is pre-seasoned with a 100% vegetable oil

Cons

  • There are cheaper models in this review

5. Utopia Kitchen-Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – 12.5 Inch – Black

Some non-stick skillets (skillets that are not cast iron) are manufactured using unsafe chemicals. On the other hand, cooking food in a cast-iron skillet increases iron in your food because it sheds some of its iron into your cooking.

You can use this skillet on different heat sources including induction, campfires, electric, gas, and ovens when sautéing, frying, baking, braising, simmering and searing your food.

Product Description

This cast-iron skillet is round and has a diameter of 12.5 inches. It weighs 8 pounds and its dimensions are 17 x 12.5 x 2.3 inches. The pan is quite heavy, the good thing is that it is designed with a helper handle for easy lifting of the skillet.

The size is big making it ideal for preparing foods for a medium to large family. The skillet’s thickness gives it superior heat retention features. The skillet distributes heat evenly for well-cooked meals.

The pan has pouring spouts on each side of the skillet for drip-free pouring. There are two handles which have hooking holes for easy storage of the skillet. The helper handle works as a support carrying feature.

This skillet is factory pre-seasoned with soy oil.

Other Features and Benefits

This skillet is affordably priced. The good thing with purchasing a cast iron skillet is that it will never need to be replaced in the future because it lasts several decades. Noteworthy, if you have never seasoned a cookware before, you do not need to be intimidated by the seasoning process.

To maintain it, it will require to be seasoned before and after every use. The simple process involves washing the skillet after cooking, drying it well with a dry kitchen towel or paper towel and applying a cooking oil. Then it should be stored in a dry place.

Pros

  • It is well-priced
  • The skillet has pouring spouts
  • Hooking holes for space-saving storage
  • It is preseasoned and ready to use
  • It is durable
  • Helper handle
  • It is quite big and fits many uses

Cons

  • The handle gets hot when cooking
  • Some surfaces of some skillets are very rough

6. Le Creuset Cast-Iron Skillet Enameled 11-3/4-Inch Iro

Cast iron skillets are multipurpose cookware that can be used for frying, deep-frying, BBQs, and baking. It can withstand any heat source including grills, ovens, open campfires or induction stoves.

Product Description

It is a round skillet that has a diameter of 11-3/4-Inch and weighs 7.5 pounds. Its dimensions are 13.2 x 12 x 1.7 inches. Because of its thickness and ability to retain heat well, after it heats up, you can use lower heat settings when cooking.

A well-covered skillet will keep your served food hot for up to 15 minutes. Although it is heavy, it is designed with a helper handle that makes handling it easier. apart from that, the handle has a hole for pegging the skillet on a hook.

The inner surface has satin interior black enamel while the exterior has a brilliant colored enamel. Continued use makes the skillet develop a natural patina, then it can be used for searing and frying foods delicate foods like eggs and fish.

The skillet has dual pouring spouts which make pouring oils and other liquids easy. It is safe to marinate or cook acidic ingredients on this skillet too. However, high temperatures may cause your food to burn or stick because the skillet is thick and retains heat making it unnecessary to use high temperatures. Not unless when you are preheating the skillet.

What’s more, you can use this skillet to also keep cold foods.

Other Features and Benefits

It is elegantly designed and unique with color. You can choose from a variety of color models. The manufacturer recommends handwashing. The good this with this skillet is that although it is expensive, its maintenance is different from other cast iron skillets because it doesn’t need seasoning.

Pros

  • It comes with a limited lifetime warranty
  • No seasoning required
  • Brilliant and colorful exterior
  • Different color models available
  • Helper hand
  • Dual pouring spouts

Cons

  • It is quite pricey
  • It is not dishwasher safe

7. T-fal E83407 Pre-Seasoned Nonstick Durable Cast Iron Skillet

Did you know that many chefs have attested to how amazing cast iron skillets prepares baked foods which get a crispy golden crust?

You can use this skillet to prepare various delicacies on a variety of heat sources including induction stoves, campfires, grills, and an oven. It is oven safe up to 600 degrees F.

Production Description

This skillet is round and has a diameter of 12 inches, it weighs 9 pounds and its other dimensions are 19.7 x 13 x 2.5 inches. In this regard, it is quite a sizeable skillet that can be used to prepare food for a large family. In addition to that, it is thick and heavy.

The skillet’s thickness makes it excellent at heat retention and therefore after the skillet has heated up, you do not need to cook at very high temperatures. The skillet is free from Cadmium and PFOA.

Besides that, the skillet features two handles, one main handle and a helper handle which are handy for such a heavy piece of cookware. Moreover, the handles have pegging holes which make storage of this device easy.

Other highlights of this skillet are its dual pouring spouts on the side of the pan for controlled pouring of oils and other liquids. On top of that, because this is a cast-iron skillet, it comes pre-seasoned from the factory and it comes with precise and an easy process you can follow to season the skillet after every use.

Other Features and Benefits

For sizes, there is a smaller size if this is too big for your cooking needs. The skillet is competitively priced.

Pros

  • Competitively priced
  • It comes pre-seasoned
  • It has dual pouring spouts
  • It has a helper handle
  • It is a large skillet
  • Oven safe
  • It is easy to maintain it and season it

Cons

  • The handles get hot when the skillet is heated

8. Fresh Australian Kitchen- Cast Iron Skillet Pre-Seasoned 12.5 Inch

If cast iron skillets are well taken care of, they can be passed on from one generation to the next. This is another large-sized budget skillet. You can use it to prepare your special meals requiring grilling, searing, baking, sautéing and braising. The skillet is oven-proof too. It can be used on a variety of other heat sources including induction stoves, electric, gas, and BBQ grills.

Product Description

This skillet is round and comes with a diameter of 12.5 inches. It weighs 7.05 pounds, and its dimensions are 16.5 x 12.5 x 2.7 inches. It is thick and that makes it have excellent heat retention for even cooking of your foods.

It is designed with convenience in mind. It has two handles, a helper handle and a main handle which makes lifting it especially when it is full easy. In addition to that, it has dual pouring spouts for easy transfer of soups or oil from the skillet to another container.

Besides that, the handles have hooking holes which make it easy to store the skillet. Apart from that, the skillet is pre-seasoned and ready to use.

Other Features and Benefits

This skillet is easy to maintain like other skillets. Noteworthy, continued use and seasoning of cast iron skillets improves their quality making the surfaces non-stick.

After cooking, it is advisable to wash the skillet with hot water to remove any foods and then the surface should be dried with a paper or dry kitchen towel. Then a cooking oil should be applied on the inner surfaces.

Pros

  • It is inexpensive
  • It is covered by the manufacturer’s lifetime guarantee
  • It is sturdy and durable
  • It is pre-seasoned and ready to use
  • It doubles up as a baking dish

Cons

  • The handle also heats up when food is cooking

9. Finex Cast Iron Skillet 10″, Pre-seasoned-Organic Flaxseed Oil

A skillet is a lifetime kitchen investment. This skillet is designed with a unique octagonal shape. The shape makes this skillet unique, additionally, the design gives it various pouring spouts for your convenience.

In addition to that, the pan has a unique handle that is more ergonomic than conventional skillets. The handle is a stainless steel coil that stays cool because it disperses heat quickly.

This is a handy cookware that you can use to bake bread, roast vegetables, sear steaks, fry chops among others. It is sturdy and it can be used on a wide range of heat sources including electric, induction stoves, open flames, ovens among others.

It is handcrafted in the USA using quality cast iron materials.

Product Description

As mentioned above, this pan has an octagonal shape. Its diameter is 10 inches, and its dimensions are 2 x 2 x 2 inches. It is thick, heating your food evenly because of the excellent heat retention of the skillet. The skillets are designed to last a lifetime.

This skillet features an ultra-smooth surface with non-stick capability. The skillet comes with an ergonomic handle that has a hooking hole for convenient storage. Noteworthy, the skillet is heavy and therefore ensure that the hook can carry the skillet’s weight.

The skillet is polished and comes pre-seasoned and it is ready to use straight from the box. The seasoning used is organic flaxseed oil. The oil is free from any chemicals.

Other Features and Benefits

There are various sizes to suit different cooking needs. Worth noting is that it has a small helper handle which has no hole.

Pros

  • A unique octagonal shape
  • They are durably constructed for longevity
  • An ergonomic handle that stays cool when cooking
  • It has smooth cooking surfaces
  • It is pre-seasoned using organic flaxseed oil
  • Multi-pouring spouts

Cons

  • It is quite pricey

10. VonShef Pre Seasoned Non-Stick Cast Iron Sauce Pan

Buying a kitchen set is usually affordable and saves shopping time. This purchase comes as a set of three skillets of different sizes, namely 10 inches, 8 inches, and 6 inches.

You can use the skillets on different heat sources because they are thick and can withstand high temperatures. As such you can use them on campfires, grills, electric stoves, gas and induction stoves. They can be used to fry, grill, sear, roast, or bake a variety of dishes including vegetables, fish, poultry, meat, steaks, pizza, and bacon.

Product Description

These skillets are round in shape. The skillets are thick and heavy and therefore they are excellent at retaining heat. As such during cooking, they distribute heat evenly for even cooking.

The skillets are designed with dual pouring spouts for drip-free pouring of oils and soups. Just as importantly, they have a handle with a hooking hole for convenient space-saving storage. However, they lack a helper handle.

The skillets are designed with detachable handles which work when you need to use the skillet without its handle.

The skillets come pre-seasoned and are ready to use.

Other Features and Benefits

This set of three skillets is very affordable. The skillets are easy to maintain, requiring to be seasoned after every use. They are easy to clean too. Seasoning makes the surface of the skillets to become non-stick for durability. Non-stick surfaces also make it possible to cook delicate dishes like eggs and fish.  The more the skillets are used and pre-seasoned, the better they get.

Pros

  • It is a set of three skillets
  • Excellent heat distribution and retention for even cooking
  • Can be used for cooking a variety of dishes
  • If seasoned well they will last a lifetime
  • Pre-seasoned
  • Three different sizes of skillets for cooking different sizes of meals
  • Very affordable
  • Pouring spouts
  • Pegging hole on the handle

Cons

  • The skillets don’t have a helper handle
  • The handle gets hot when cooking
  • Assembly required for the handle

11. Camp Chef 12 Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

Skillets are perfect for indoor and outdoor cooking. You can use this skillet on different heat sources including open campfires, BBQ grills, ovens, inductions stoves and electric and gas stoves. It is a cast-iron skillet and its quality gets better the more it is used and seasoned.

It can be used for preparing a variety of delicacies including baked foods like pizza or cakes, meats, fishes, chicken, and vegetables.

Product Description

It is a round-shaped skillet with a diameter of 12 inches. The skillet weighs 7lbs and its dimensions are 18.5 x 9 x 2. In this regard, it is a large-sized skillet and ideal for preparing meals for a medium to large family.

The skillet is heavy and thick, making it retain heat and distribute heat evenly for even cooking. It features a main handle and a helper handle to support the skillet when carrying or pouring liquids. Moreover, it has dual pouring spouts to conveniently pour oil or other liquids from the skillet. Both handles are designed with a hole for convenient storage on a hook.

It is pre-seasoned and ready to use.

Other Features and Benefits

It is affordably priced. Additionally, it is easy to maintain the skillet. It is easy to wash it and seasoning it takes under two minutes.

After washing with hot water, with or without a mild dish detergent, wipe the surface with a paper towel or dry kitchen towel. While it is still hot, apply a cooking oil and then store it in a dry place.

Pros

  • It is big in size and ideal for preparing large meals
  • It is oven friendly
  • It works on different heat sources
  • Pre-seasoned
  • It has dual pouring spouts
  • It has a helper handle

Cons

  • The handle gets hot during cooking
  • It requires seasoning to maintain its good qualities

12. Zelancio Enameled 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

Most skillets can double up as baking dishes. This skillet can be used to cook, bake and even serve food, keeping food warm for up to 15 minutes. You can use it to cook different dishes including meat, fish, chicken, eggs, and vegetables. A skillet is thick and can withstand very high temperatures making it suitable for cooking on different heat sources including open fires, oven, induction stoves, gas, and electric stoves.

The cookware is free from lead or any other harmful metal and it is approved by the FDA.

Product Description

This skillet is round and has a diameter of 10 inches. The skillet weighs 6.9 pounds and its dimensions are 19.8 x 13.2 x 4 inches. The skillet has a unique design with its colored exterior for aesthetic appeal, there are other colors available too.

What’s more, the vibrant colors make it excellent for serving food too. The skillet has superior heat retention and heat distribution and as such it can be used for cooking meals requiring different temperatures including slow-simmering, marinating, baking, simmering, braising and sautéing.

The skillet has a main handle and a helper handle although the helper handle doesn’t have a hanging hole. The hanging hole is for convenient storage of the skillet on a hook. The skillet also features pouring spouts which help in pouring oils and soup from the pan conveniently.

This is a cast-iron skillet that has three layers of porcelain enamel. The interior coat prevents the surface from oxidation.

Other Features and Benefits

The skillet is moderately priced. Besides, it is easy to clean the cookware, thanks to the black-porcelain glaze enamel surface.

Pros

  • Oven-friendly
  • It can be used on a variety of heat sources
  • Vibrant colors
  • The inner surface is coated to prevent oxidation
  • Dual pouring spouts

Cons

  • The handle gets hot when cooking

Buying Guide for Cast Iron Skillets

Generally, cast-iron skillets perform the same when it comes to simple tasks such as frying eggs or searing meat. However, a few factors affect the ease and comfort ability of using a pan. Here is what to consider when purchasing a pan.

Pre-seasoning

Most manufacturers will season their pans from the factory. This means that the pan will come covered in one or more layers of polymerized oil for that rustproof and non-stick finish.

An unseasoned cast-iron skillet will be silver gray while a seasoned one will be either brown or black. Good seasoning will ensure that foods do not stick to your pan when cooking.

Easy to Operate

Cast iron cookware is naturally heavy. As such, you want to get one that has a comfortable handle and a huge helper hand on the adjacent edge of the pan. This provides safety as you handle the pan.

Good grip is also important because cast iron handles tend to get very hot. You want to be able to properly grasp your handles with mittens.

Large Pour Spout

Don’t you just love a pan with a pour spout that will not create a mess? You want to get a cast iron skillet that will be able to pour out its contents without dribbling and making a mess.

Inexpensive

As mentioned before, cast iron cookware performs more or less the same whether cheap or expensive. What differentiates them is their texture and weight.

Most modern and affordable cookware comes in slightly rocky texture and is quite heavy. On the other hand, costly skillets come several pounds lighter and with a smooth surface.

Costly pans will develop blotchy stains after a meat searing session, which does not really affect performance. It just means that it will take more to create a dark and level seasoning on them.

How to Care For Your Cast Iron Skillet

You may not believe it but one of the best ways to maintain your cast iron cookware is to use it often. Therefore, ensure that it is always within arm’s reach and cook fatty foods in it often.

You can also wash your pan with hot water and mild soap on condition that it is properly seasoned. Thoroughly cleaning your pan will also ensure that it does not develop an irregular seasoning of accumulated oil.

Sometimes, your pan will have stubborn cooked-on food, just boil some water in it for a minute or two, and then wash with soap and water. After washing, ensure that your pan is completely dry by letting it sit in the oven or in the stove for a minute over low heat.

Here is a brief list of things you should avoid doing to your cast-iron skillet.

  • Never leave your skillet immersed in water for a long time otherwise it will rust.
  • Don’t wash your cast-iron cookware in the dishwasher, or it will corrode.
  • Never run cold water over a hot pan. Sudden temperature changes can cause cracks in your cast iron cookware even if it is durable.

At some point, your cast-iron cookware may require re-seasoning due to thinning out or the seasoning scraping off during cooking. You will know it is time for re-seasoning when food begins to stick on the pan.

Benefits of These Appliances

What are some of the good reasons to invest in a cast iron skillet? Here are some of the reasons why we think this are appliances worth spending your hard-earned cash on.

Nonstick

The best cast iron skillet is non-stick. This means that your food will not stick to the pan and you will require less oil to cook which is a health bonus.

Organic

Non-stick pans are great but the regular ones contain per fluorocarbons that have been linked to cancer. The good thing with cast iron is that it is chemical free so you can avoid worrying about any organ damage.

Durability

If you do your research, you will discover that most people with iron cast cookware inherited it from the older generation. What does that tell you? Cast iron cookware lasts long.

Supplements Iron to Your Food

This is probably the main benefit of using iron cast cookware. Did you know that cooking with a cast iron skillet could increase iron in your body? This is great because most people suffer from iron deficiency

Dual purpose

Using cast iron cookware is not limited to the stove. You can also place it in the oven at whatever temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cast Iron Skillets

From whether cast iron appliances are worth investing in to the types of food you can cook (and not cook) with them, here’s our exclusive FAQs section. Hopefully, it will come in handy in helping you make an informed choice.

Is Cast Iron worth investing in?

Certainly. The fact that you can season it, as you like, that it is cheap, multipurpose, and long lasting makes it worth your while.

Why are some cast iron skillets costlier than others?

Some skillets are made of heavier and thicker material that costs more. The cost of production determines the cost of the product.

Is there anything that cannot be cooked in cast iron?

Yes, there are foods that should not be cooked in cast iron cookware such as delicate fish, sticky, and acidic foods. Remember not to store food in your cast iron pan as well.

Does food taste better when cooked in cast iron?

Of course, food cooked in cast iron tastes better. You can use cast iron cookware for a variety of recipes as well. The more seasoned your cookware, the less oil you use and the healthier you become.

Which One Is The Best?

While all the cast iron skillets we’ve reviewed are worth their salt, we’d like to mention the Lodge-10 Inch Cast Iron Skillet Pre-Seasoned as the greatest we’ve come across so far. Lodge is a US-based company has stunned us with its ability to remain consistent. And the product’s overwhelmingly positive reviews can attest to that.

Final Thoughts

Cast iron cookware is not a new phenomenon as it was quite popular in the past. However, that does not mean that it lacks in quality. Cast iron comes with a host of benefits including adding iron to your body and preventing you from getting diseases such as cancer.

As long as your skillet is well seasoned and you take proper care of it, there is no excuse why you should not use cast iron cookware.

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