Cast iron skillets are a staple in many kitchens, known for their durability and versatility. Whether you’re searing a steak, frying up some eggs, or baking a skillet cookie, a cast iron skillet can handle it all. But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
The Best Cast Iron Skillets
When shopping for a cast iron skillet, there are a few critical factors to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the size of the skillet. Cast iron skillets come in a range of sizes, from small 6-inch pans to large 15-inch behemoths. The size you choose will depend on what you plan to cook and how many people you’re feeding.
Another essential factor to consider is the weight of the skillet. Cast iron is heavy, and some skillets can be downright unwieldy, especially when they’re loaded up with food. If you plan to use your skillet frequently, you may want to opt for a lighter option that won’t tire out your arms. (Trust me on this one. I’ve had to ask for help to get a cast iron skillet in and out of the oven more than once!)
Finally, it’s important to think about the quality of the skillet. Not all cast iron skillets are created equal, and some may be prone to cracking, warping, or other issues. Look for a skillet that is well-made and built to last.
We spent hours researching and testing a variety of cast iron skillets to find the best cast iron skillets and determine which ones are the best of the best. In the next section, we’ll share our top picks and explain why we think they’re worth your investment.
Best Cast Iron Skillets
We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various cast iron skillets to bring you the best of the best. Cast iron skillets are a timeless kitchen staple that every home cook should have in their arsenal. Not only are they incredibly versatile, but they also add a unique depth of flavor to your dishes that other types of cookware just can’t match. Whether you’re a seasoned cast iron pro or a newbie looking to invest in your first skillet, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best cast iron skillets on the market.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable cast iron skillet, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a great choice.
Pros
- The skillet is pre-seasoned, so you can start cooking with it right away.
- It’s made in the USA with iron and oil, so you can trust its quality.
- The skillet has unparalleled heat retention, which means you’ll get even cooking every time.
Cons
- The skillet is heavy, which can make it difficult to handle.
- It takes longer to heat up than other types of cookware.
- The skillet requires special care to maintain its seasoning and prevent rust.
We’ve been using the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet in our kitchen for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The skillet heats evenly and retains heat well, which makes it great for cooking everything from eggs to steak. We also appreciate that it’s pre-seasoned, so we didn’t have to go through the process of seasoning it ourselves.
One thing to keep in mind is that the skillet is heavy, which can make it difficult to handle. However, the helper handle and looped primary handle make it easier to lift and move around. We also found that the skillet takes longer to heat up than other types of cookware, but once it’s hot, it stays hot.
To maintain the skillet’s seasoning and prevent rust, it’s important to follow the care instructions. This includes washing it with warm water and a mild soap, drying it thoroughly, and oiling the surface of the pan with a very light layer of cooking oil while warm.
Overall, we think the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a great investment for anyone who wants a versatile and durable piece of cookware.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder, 12-inch
We highly recommend the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet for anyone who is looking for a versatile and durable cooking tool.
Pros
- The skillet’s heat retention and even heating allows for consistent cooking.
- The pre-seasoned finish provides an easy-release surface that improves with use.
- The silicone handle holder protects hands from heat up to 500° F and is dishwasher safe.
Cons
- The skillet is heavy and may be difficult for some people to handle.
- The skillet may rust if not properly cleaned and seasoned.
- The skillet’s cooking surface may not be as smooth as some people prefer.
We recently used the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet to prepare a variety of dishes, including seared steak and baked cornbread. The skillet’s heat retention and even heating allowed us to cook our food to perfection. We also appreciated the pre-seasoned finish, which made for easy food release and cleaning. The silicone handle holder was a nice touch, as it protected our hands from the heat of the skillet.
However, we did find the skillet to be quite heavy, which may be a drawback for some people. Additionally, we noticed that the skillet may rust if not properly cleaned and seasoned. Finally, the cooking surface of the skillet may not be as smooth as some people prefer.
Overall, we believe that the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for a durable and versatile cooking tool.
Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable cast iron skillet, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a great option.
Pros
- Suitable for stovetop and oven cooking
- Increases iron content in food
- Superior heat retention keeps food warm
Cons
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Requires hand washing and oil coating after each use
- Not as smooth as non-stick cookware
We’ve been using this skillet for a few months now and have been impressed with its performance. We love that it can be used on both the stovetop and in the oven, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. Plus, cooking with cast iron can increase the iron content in your food, which is a bonus for those with iron deficiencies.
The skillet’s superior heat retention keeps our meals warm for a long time, which is especially great for serving dishes like fajitas or stir-fry. However, it’s important to note that the skillet is not dishwasher-safe and requires hand washing and a light coating of vegetable oil after each use to maintain its quality.
Overall, we highly recommend the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan for its versatility and durability. It’s a great addition to any kitchen and will last for years to come with proper care.
Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid
We highly recommend the Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid for anyone looking for the best cast iron skillets with a lid.
Pros
- The cast iron skillet has precision heat distribution and unrivaled heat retention, making it perfect for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing meats, vegetables, and more.
- The heavy-duty cast iron braiser lid allows for even moisture and heat distribution, effectively turning the pan into a casserole or braiser with perfect cooking results.
- The set comes complete with non-slip, heat-resistant handle covers to keep a firm, confident grip while cooking, transferring, and serving food.
Cons
- The cast iron lid can get very hot, even with the silicone handle cover, which may make it difficult to handle.
- The casting may be rough, requiring extensive sanding and cleaning before use.
- The pan and lid are heavy, which may make them difficult to handle for some users.
We found the Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid to be a great addition to our cooking arsenal. The precision heat distribution and heat retention make cooking a breeze, and the braiser lid allows for even more versatility in the kitchen. The included silicone handle covers provide a secure grip, and the set is easy to clean and maintain. However, the lid can get very hot, and the casting may be rough, requiring some extra work before use. Overall, we highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a durable and versatile cast iron skillet with a braiser lid.
Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Lid
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable cast iron skillet, Utopia Kitchen’s Saute Fry Pan Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Lid is a great option.
Pros
- The pre-seasoned quality of the pan makes it ready for use straight out of the box.
- The extra layer of protection ensures even heat distribution, which leads to an improved cooking experience.
- The skillet pans are highly compatible, as they can be used on any heating source.
Cons
- It is recommended to season the cast iron pan set with any vegetable oil before use.
- The skillet should be cooled completely before washing in hot soapy water with a sponge using a regular dishwashing liquid soap.
- The pan is quite heavy, which may not be ideal for some users.
We’ve been using this skillet for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. The pre-seasoned quality of the pan means that it’s ready to use straight out of the box, which is great for those who don’t want to go through the hassle of seasoning a new pan. The extra layer of protection ensures even heat distribution, which leads to an improved cooking experience. We’ve found that food cooks evenly and thoroughly in this skillet.
One of the best things about this skillet is its versatility. It can be used on any heating source, which makes it great for both indoor and outdoor use. We’ve used it for grilling, frying, sautéing, roasting, braising, and broiling meats, vegetables, and more. It’s become our go-to pan for many different dishes.
While the skillet is pre-seasoned, it is recommended to season the cast iron pan set with any vegetable oil before use. This will help to ensure that the pan lasts for a long time and that food doesn’t stick to it. Additionally, the skillet should be cooled completely before washing in hot soapy water with a sponge using a regular dishwashing liquid soap. This will help to prevent any damage to the pan.
The only downside to this skillet is that it’s quite heavy, which may not be ideal for some users. However, the weight is a testament to the durability of the pan, and we feel that it’s worth it for the quality of the product.
Overall, we highly recommend Utopia Kitchen’s Saute Fry Pan Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Lid. It’s versatile, durable, and performs well in the kitchen.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best cast iron skillet, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Size
Cast iron skillets come in a variety of sizes, from small 6-inch pans to large 15-inch pans. Consider how many people you typically cook for and what types of dishes you’ll be making. A smaller skillet may be perfect for making omelets or sautéing vegetables, while a larger skillet may be better for searing steaks or cooking big batches of food.
Weight
Cast iron skillets are known for their heft, but some are heavier than others. Consider the weight of the skillet you’re considering and whether you’ll be comfortable using it. A heavier skillet may be more durable and retain heat better, but it may also be more difficult to maneuver.
Handle
The handle of a cast iron skillet can be an important factor to consider. Look for a skillet with a comfortable, sturdy handle that is securely attached to the pan. Some skillets have two handles, which can make it easier to lift and maneuver the pan.
Coating
Some cast iron skillets come pre-seasoned, while others require seasoning before use. Consider whether you’re comfortable seasoning a skillet yourself or if you’d prefer a pre-seasoned option. Additionally, some skillets have an enamel coating, which can make them easier to clean but may affect their performance.
Price
Cast iron skillets can vary greatly in price, from less than $20 to more than $200. Consider your budget and what features are most important to you when choosing a skillet.
In summary, when choosing the best cast iron skillet, consider the size, weight, handle, coating, and price. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to find a skillet that meets your needs and helps you create delicious meals for years to come.
