Selecting the best cast iron skillet for your needs is crucial since it will remain in your kitchen for the long run. Every home cook should own a set of these pans if they want to bake perfect cornbread, cook the perfect meal on the stovetop, or roast a whole bird – and they could also be helpful to anyone looking for an inexpensive and virtually indestructible kitchen tool.
In addition to being easy to use and maintain, cast-iron skillets come with a nonstick coating. Although you have to dry and season them thoroughly, you’ll be rewarded with a skillet that’s sure to become a treasured family tradition and make plenty of delicious meals along the way.
You can see a quick list of the top ten cast-iron skillets below, and you can continue reading for total reviews and information on their features.
Best Cast Iron Skillet Reviews
Victoria Cast Iron Skillet Large Frying Pan
- CAST-IRON COOKING: Our high-quality cast-iron pan comes with a perfectly textured preseasoned skin for an easier release that helps build seasoning with each use. We use only non-GMO, kosher-certified flaxseed oil to season it, and it’s PTFE- and PFOA-free for healthier cooking.
- MADE FOR GREAT MEALS: Our Cast-Iron Skillet was designed with the user in mind. It features a thicker edge, a deep vessel for sauces or larger food items, drip-free spouts on each side, and our signature long curved handle for a better grip.
- EASY TO USE: Give your cooking an upgrade by using cast-iron cookware. Durable, rugged, and made to last, cast-iron pans are easy to use and allow the perfect amount of heat distribution and retention for more evenly cooked food.
- VERSATILE PAN: Our Cast-Iron Skillet is made with natural materials and can be used almost anywhere, such as on the stove, on induction cooktops, in the oven, over a campfire, or on a grill. Your food will stay warm for longer and be infused with beneficial natural iron.
- FROM STOVE TO TABLE: Victoria has manufactured quality cast-iron cookware in our own factories in Colombia—never outsourcing—since 1939. Our cast-iron products are made with resource-efficient materials, are economical, will outlast traditional cookware, and will offer reliable cooking for years to come.
Cast iron skillets are made with enough innovation to make them more functional while maintaining their traditional appearance. Unlike other cast iron, these Victoria Cast Iron handles are curved and larger, ergonomic, and beautiful. We loved how the coating made a perfect fried egg and a beautifully browned potato right out of the box.
Features
A notable feature of this skillet is its long and thin handle, which remained cool longer than most of the other cast-iron pans. The two pour spouts are also excellent, as they are the largest and therefore provide less risk of oil dripping out.
This seasoned pan can keep your food hot for up to 15 minutes when roasting a whole chicken or searing four pork chops. It may be too wide for your favorite cornbread or pot pie recipe. For a better grip, the handles are curved and longer.
Exceptional heat retention and durability with commercial iron casting are present in this skillet. These methods can be used for cooking: induction, ceramics, campfires, grills, broilers, and ovens.
A Victoria Skillet can be used to cook on an induction hob, ceramic cooktop, campfire, grill, or oven. Since the cooking surface is more prominent, you can sear, bake, and fry better with our skillets. When you cook with a seasoned cast iron skillet, trace amounts of iron are released, boosting your diet with the mineral.
Our Verdict
All in all, this plan provides an even heat distribution and a crispy, uniform sear. This large frying pan can serve, cook, bake, grill, and go straight from oven to table. Moreover, you can use this skillet for cooking deep dish pizzas, carrot cakes, baked asparagus, roasting and sautéing pork chops and chicken, and at the grill for searing steaks!
Pros
- An excellent material
- Both sides are strong
- Seasoned with non-GMO flaxseed oil
- Non-slip Grip
Cons
- Lid not included
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
- One Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Handle Holder
- Assist handle for better control
- Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
- Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- Use to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill
With Lodge’s 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet, your family will love cooking for years to come. The pot offers excellent heat distribution and retention and a handle easy to grip for lifting or hanging when not in use. There are countless possibilities in it.
Features
It can be used to grill, fry, broil, sauté, bake, or broil. With this skillet, you may cook on the stove, grill, and grill over a campfire. Despite its brutal toughness, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet comes pre-seasoned for ease of release that improves with use. Contains a 12 inch Lodge Cast Iron Skillet and a silicone handle holder.
Warm water is recommended for cleaning cast iron. Several drops of mild soap may be added if desired. Make sure the paper towel or cloth is lint-free before using it. As the pan is still hot, oil should be rubbed onto the surface. The cookware should be hung or stored in a dry place.
This skillet makes it easy to prepare and serve meals fast and efficiently. Besides sauteing and frying, you can also fry, stir fry, sear fry, or bake. Induction cooktops, ceramic cooktops, electric cooktops, gas cooktops, ovens, grills, or even campfires can be used.
Cast iron does not need to be cared for. You can make any recipe your family loves right away using Lodge cookware because it is already seasoned. Regardless of the source of heat, you can use it, from a stovetop to a campfire. Using it more often will make the seasoning better.
Our Verdict
For over a century, Lodge cast iron cookware had an unmatched reputation for quality, and it was the first manufacturer in the U.S. of cast iron cookware. You’ll find even heating, a natural, easy-release finish, flexibility, and durability with our great cookware. Cast iron is more than just a product; it is a family heirloom that binds generations of family members.
Pros
- Ready-to-use, pre-seasoned
- Experienced Brand
- Affordable
Cons
- Heavy Weight
Le Creuset Enameled Iron Handle Skillet
- Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
- Ready to use, requires no seasoning
- Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
- Black satin interior enamel is specially formulated for higher surface temperatures to enhance cooking performance
- Lightest weight cast iron by quart on the market
With this enameled cast iron skillet from Le Creuset, you will get years of quality use out of it, and it requires little maintenance at all. The price of Le Creuset skillets is higher because they are part of a luxury brand. The cast-iron pans are worth it in the long run if you have a budget that can accommodate the cost.
Features
Le Creuset’s enamel-coated cast-iron skillet is a versatile and useful kitchen gadget. A cast iron pan with durable enamel coating is made from cast iron. It offers even heat distribution and cannot be seasoned or otherwise maintained.
This skillet’s durability and ease of use make it a great choice. The pan can perform almost all of the functions of raw cast iron pans without special care and maintenance. In addition, they are aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. You can match it easily with any home decor as it comes in so many colors.
Black satin enamel covers the top of the cooking surface, perfect for searing steaks at high temperatures. You can have easy-to-move eggs with this coating, but it isn’t nonstick; you can ensure that they are not stuck to the pan with a bit of oil and temperature control.
Adding a Le Creuset skillet to your kitchen is a good choice, thanks to its superior quality. Cast iron is a great way to cook meals, so even if you’ve never used it before, try it!
Our Verdict
Why purchase the Le Creuset skillet when bare cast-iron skillets are so cheap? A benefit of buying it is that you won’t have to spend as much time maintaining bare cast-iron skillets. Le Creuset is a better overall pick if you value your time and effort in the kitchen.
Pros
- Exceptionally durable construction
- Large, sturdy handles make it easy to hold
- Good heat distribution and retention
- Dishwasher and oven safe
Cons
- Priced higher than some alternatives
FINEX 10″ Cast Iron Skillet with Lid
- COOKWARE DONE RIGHT An indispensable kitchen tool built for lifelong use; Ideal for searing, pan-frying, roasting, and more; Lid provides flavor seal for simmering, braising, and steaming
- WORKS ON ALL COOKTOPS At home on gas, electric, and induction ranges; Fit for the grill and open flame cooking; Oven safe; Made for everyday use
- SPEED COOL HANDLE Wound from 300 series stainless steel and hand polished to high luster, our handles stay cool longer, cool off quicker and feel better in the hand. Inspired by vintage wood stove door handles, they bring high-end fit and finish to a time honored design.
- ULTRA-POLISHED Satin-smooth, easy release cooking surface; Free of chemical coatings; Pre-seasoned and ready for use right out of the box
- FUNCTIONAL ELEGANCE Thick base and walls for constant, even heating and heat retention; Patented octagonal "multi-pour" design for perfect pours and greater cooking control
Machine-smoothing makes the cooking surface of this skillet smooth and even. You can pour excess grease or sauces out of the corners of this Finex pan. Additionally, this skillet’s cooking surface is only 14.5 inches short of the regular pie size.
Features
Due to the thicker base of this product, it provides balanced cooking temperatures. Whenever you are dealing with long cook times, like when baking, this is beneficial. Food items can be lifted out of the pan with spatulas wedged into the corners.
With the lid, you can simmer, braise, and steam with an airtight seal. It’s an indispensable kitchen tool you can use for years to come. Fits grills and open flame cooking; Oven safe; Safe to use on gas, electric, and induction ranges; Everyday use.
You can fry eggs and not worry about them sticking to the pan since it’s pre-seasoned. Nonstick pans don’t slide off as quickly as those commercials, but there is minimal sticking. Using stainless steel 300 series and hand polishing to a high luster, our handle stays cool for more extended periods, cools quickly, and feels better in one’s hand.
With a satin-smooth, easy-to-release surface, free of coatings; Seasoned right from the box; An effective temperature-control system; Patented “multi-pour” pouring system for more control over the cooking process during pouring.
Our Verdict
This Cast iron pan from Finex has a unique octagonal shape and speed more comfortable handles. Pouring and flipping are made more accessible with the octagonal design. The food can be turned on 8 sides, and you can pour the liquid out from 6 spouts when you are done.
Pros
- Heat is highly conductible
- Cool-handle
- Designed uniquely
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Sticky Skillet
Lodge Heat Treated Miniature Skillet
- Patented heat-treating process inhibits rust
- Superior heat retention and even cooking
- Can be pre-chilled to serve cold dishes
- Seasoned for a natural, easy release finish
- Made in the USA
For the first time, Lodge has introduced cast iron tableware and cookware. Each piece of this skillet undergoes a heat-treatment process to prevent rusting, ensuring that it is always ready for use at any time. You can eat eggs or spices in this Heat-Treated Mini Skillet. This dish is convenient for serving desserts directly from the skillet or serving personal portions.
Features
You can effortlessly fry or bake individual portions to perfection when you use this Lodge 5 inch Heat-Treated Mini Cast Iron Skillet. As small as an egg, this skillet is perfect for baking a single cookie or cinnamon roll.
For a stylish presentation, serve your freshly made dish to your customers still in the skillet. With Lodge’s patented process, they have heat-treated their 5″ cast iron skillet, preventing rust and making it worry-free to maintain.
Additionally, it is pre-seasoned so that it can be used immediately after purchase. This seasoning will offer the pan natural, nonstick properties for more than 100 years if properly and regularly maintained.
Our Verdict
Cast iron pans are known for their exceptional heat retention and even distribution of heat. You can use cast iron cookware on all kinds of cooking surfaces, such as gas, electric, induction cooktop, a barbecue, or even a fireside. The cast iron can also be used in the oven, so you can sear meat in the pan and finish it in the oven.
Pros
- Natural, easy-release seasoning
- Rust-free maintenance with heat-enhanced iron
- The handle is ovenproof in its entirety
- Uniquely efficient at retaining heat and evenly heating
Cons
- Difficult to clean
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Deep Skillet
- Can be used to saute, sear, fry, bake, & stir fry
- Foundry seasoned; ready to use upon purchase
- Safe for all cooking surfaces, grills, & campfires
- Assist handle for easier handling
- Lid included
With a 10.25-inch diameter and a 5-pound weight, this skillet is both user-friendly and affordable. Since this Lodge skillet weighs 1 pound less than competitors, our at-home tester found that she was more likely to reach for it repeatedly. In addition, the skillet is very easy to clean.
Features
Our lab testing revealed that this rugged pan, made in America out of thicker cast iron, heats slowly but retains its temperature easily-perfect for searing steaks and frying anything else you need browned. Although not a dealbreaker, we found that the pan ran a bit too hot once heated; another minute or two, and the steaks would have quickly burned.
With its cast iron construction, this skillet is durable and known for its ability to hold heat evenly and for a long time. When heated up, the Lodge takes longer than its competitors to get hot, but once it does, it maintains the heat well.
This is why it’s best to let your pan gradually heat up for a few minutes – starting at low and moving up to medium – before adding a bit of oil and getting started. It can reach up to 600°F, which is higher than the temperature of most home ovens, making it unlikely to overheat.
Lodge’s 10.25-Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is lightweight, versatile, and made in the United States, but its preseasoning isn’t exactly nonstick. It will take time to develop the perfect surface, even though it is a quality item that will last for generations.
Our Verdict
Conversely, the Lodge performed exceptionally well in terms of nonstick. The cornbread baked in the pan came out with no sticking, but the fried egg stuck a bit more than we’d like. The silicone handle cover made it easy to remove it from the oven and place it on the burner. Considering its price, it’s an unbeatable pan.
Pros
- Easy to Clean
- Lightweight
- Perfect Size
- Silicon Handles
Cons
- Handle holder made of leather that’s expensive and of questionable value
IMPULSE! Forge Cast Iron Skillet
- DESCRIPTION- The IMPULSE! Forge cast iron skillet is a pre-seasoned cast iron skillet. Therefore you can use it right away after hand washing when you receive it. Many professional chefs believe that a cast iron pan is the best pan to cook with. You can sear on the stove and finish in the oven making it a one pot cooking solution. This iron skillet can be used in the oven, on the stove, on the grill or over a campfire. Use this skillet pan to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill.
- FEATURES- Ability to sear on the stove and finish in the oven up to 600 degrees F making it a one pot cooking solution. This iron skillet can be used in the oven, on the stove, on the grill or over a campfire. Use this skillet pan to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill. Cook side dishes, meats, seafood, vegetables, and more.
- INCLUDES- One Cast Iron skillet full size is: 12.2'' L x 12.2'' W x 2.4'' H with a cooking area of: 9.75'' L x 9.75'' W x 2.2'' H.
- MATERIALS- Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron
- EASY CARE- Hand wash, dry, rub with cooking oil.
Impulse Forge cast iron skillets are pre-seasoned cast iron skillets. Upon receiving them, you can use them right away after hand washing. Cast iron pans are considered the best pans for cooking by many professional chefs. This skillet pan is ideal for searing, sautéing, baking, broiling, frying, or grilling.
Features
This cast-iron skillet is a one-pot cooking solution because it can be seared on the stove and finished in the oven. Cooking with this skillet can be done in the oven, over a campfire, on the stove, or the grill.
The skillet pan can be used for sears, sautés, bakes, broilers, braises, frying, and grilling. It can also be used to cook side dishes, meat, seafood, and vegetables. A one-pot solution with the ability to sear on the stove and finish in the oven up to 600 degrees F. You can use this iron skillet on the grill, in the oven, or over the campfire.
The individual portion pan is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Oval, Round, or Square casseroles are available. Our menu includes Mac & Cheese, potatoes, vegetables, and more. Cooking vessels reduce contamination when direct food contact is minimized.
Our Verdict
You can use the cast iron roaster oven pan to prepare cast iron roaster oven recipes in the comfort of your own home. You can make lasagna, casseroles, cornbread, desserts, cakes, apple crisp, roasted veggies, and pot roast with this roaster pan. You can bake it, cook it on the stove, grill it, or cook it over a fire. Suitable for searing, baking, broiling, braising, frying, and grilling.
Pros
- Budget-Friendly
- Easy to clean
- Easy to use
- Solid grip handles
Cons
- Not Dishwasher safe
Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet
- MULTI-PURPOSE PAN + LID COMBO: This versatile multi cooker set allows you to use the 3-Quart deep pan together with the lid as a dutch oven, deep dryer or braiser - or use separately to sear up double the amount of burgers or steaks or create an entire meal in the 2 pans. The cast iron lid can withstand the temperatures of any oven or open fire.
- PRECISION HEAT DISTRIBUTION and UNRIVALED HEAT RETENTION – Cuisinel cast iron is famous for that perfect, succulent sear, without losing any heat when cold food hits the pan. Whether you're using our premium cookware on your kitchen stove, oven, BBQ or even an inconsistent campfire, the lossless heat retention and superior heat distribution makes managing your cooking times effortless. Can be used for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising and sautéing meats, vegetables and more!
- SUPERIOR PRE-SEASONED CRAFTSMENSHIP – Crafted to last for generations, Cuisinel sources the highest quality materials in casting our cookware. Cuisinel cast iron is notoriously safer than teflon or other non-stick materials. Continuous easy-to-follow seasoning will result in a safe, healthy and virtually non-stick pan. After every use, cast iron should be hand washed, dried thoroughly on the stove at medium heat and seasoned with natural oils; Do not put in dishwasher and do not air dry.
- COOKWARE TO LAST A LIFETIME AND BEYOND - Cast iron cookware notoriously improves with use, lasts a lifetime and can be passed down from generation to generation. Create a lifetime legacy of warm, fond memories with friends and family and imbue those sentiments into this superb cast iron cookware and you'll smile every time you use - and so will anyone that you gift cast iron to!
- CARE and USE GUIDE + LIFETIME WARRANTY: Each set includes our Care and Use Guide for beginners and professional alike, so you can be confident in how to care for your new set. So, go on, fire up your Cuisinel cookware. If anything happens, it's on us. In additional to Amazon's seamless 30-day money back guarantee, Cuisinel Cast Iron guarantees the quality and durability of all its products for a lifetime, so you can be assured that you are making the right choice and there is no risk to you.
The ‘Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 12-Inch with Handle Cover’ from the Cuisinel brand is a robust, high quality, and affordable item made of top-quality cast iron. It will withstand extensive use and washing for years to come. As your inner cook is beginning to emerge and you enjoy experimenting with new techniques and cuisines, this skillet is ideal for you.
Features
You can bake, grill, broil, broil, braise, fry, sauté, and even roast various cuts of meat and vegetables! Moreover, it is grill, stovetop, and induction safe, making it versatile cookware that can be used anywhere and at any time. Whether you like nature or enjoy camping from time to time, the Cuisinel Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 12-Inch with Handle Cover is sure to be to your taste due to its versatility in being compatible with a variety of cooktops.
If you enjoy spending weekends indoors or cooking up some mouthwatering food, this cast iron skillet will surely satisfy your cooking desires. The handle cover is non-slip and heat-resistant, so you won’t drop it or get burned!
Cuisinel’s 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Handle Cover is as good as any good cast iron pan.
Our Verdict
This pre-seasoned cast iron skillet 12-inch with handle cover will ensure that your lunch, as well as all your other meals during the day, are prepared to perfection. The cast-iron pan from Cuisinel will help you make the most of your cooking time by providing you with plenty of tasty treats.
Pros
- Exceptional heat retention
- Pre-seasoned
- Non-slip Handles
- Multifunctional
Cons
- Hard to cool down
Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid
- INCLUDED SILICONE HOT HANDLE HOLDER & TEMPERED GLASS LID – This cast iron skillet comes complete with a non-slip, heat-resistant handle cover to keep your hand safe while cooking or serving food. (Silicone grips get hot: Always use an oven mitt or a towel when handling cast iron).
- INCLUDED SILICONE HOT HANDLE HOLDER & TEMPERED GLASS LID – This cast iron skillet comes complete with a non-slip, heat-resistant handle cover to keep your hand safe while cooking or serving food. (Silicone grips get hot: Always use an oven mitt or a towel when handling cast iron).
Cooking and frying are improved in this skillet with its smooth finish for even heat distribution, no matter whether you are using it on a stove, grill, or induction cooktop. You can use this cast iron skillet pan for baking, grilling, broiling, and braising meats, vegetables, and even more!
Features
Cooking or serving food will remain safe with this skillet’s heat-resistant, non-slip handle cover. Cast iron gets hot under silicone grips: Always use a towel or an oven mitt when handling it.
This cast iron skillet has a smooth finish for even heat distribution, which is ideal for grilling, stovetops, and induction cooktops. Featuring a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with a tempered glass lid, it is of high quality, durable, heat-resistant construction.
Our all-purpose fajita skillets are crafted from seasoned cast iron for long-term durability and long-term performance. Cooking meats, vegetables, and more with the Cuisinel iron skillet pan is easy! Cooking options include frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing. Cooking and serving food are made safer with this heat-resistant, non-slip handle cover.
Our Verdict
Cast iron cookware that has many appealing features is designed with the home chef in mind. With two pouring spouts and an extended handle, this pan is easy to use. The lid has a heat-resistant handle and an integrated helper handle.
Pros
- Versatile Cooking
- Solid Lid
- Covered Handles
- Durable for long-term
- Heat-Resistant
Cons
- Not easy to clean
10″ Smithey Cast Iron Skillet
- SATIN-SMOOTH, POLISHED FINISH
- ERGONOMIC HANDLE
- POUR SPOUTS
- HOLES ON BOTH SIDES FOR HANGING
- US MADE
Among the most popular products of Smithey Ironware, this 10-inch skillet is their first skillet. The smooth, polished interior of the thick cast iron skillet makes it easier to clean and maintain.
Features
Both handles are drilled so that they can easily be hung for storage. There are also two pouring spouts so liquids can be easily transferred to storage or serving containers. This 10-inch model is ideal for skillet cornbread, but there are also 8-inch and 12-inch versions, so you can adjust the size as needed.
With high sides, the Smithey minimized oil splatter while searing steaks. The pan is not entirely non stick since there were still cornbread crumbs stuck after turning it upside down to release them.
The seasoning of this pan requires some special handling, but the beautiful American craftsmanship is well worth the extra work and can be passed down as an heirloom.
Our Verdict
10″ Skillets are perfect for small households or bakers who want to make perfect-sized cornbread or cakes. As well as on the grill, we enjoy this skillet around the campfire. Cast-iron skillets offer the essentials – pour spots, a helper handle, and our signature polished interior that’s easy to clean and maintain. You’ll love this everyday skillet as much as we do.
Pros
- High sides reduce splatter
- Beautiful Design
- Easy pouring through two spouts
- Simple to Clean
Cons
- A bit pricey
FAQS
Which brand of cast iron skillet is best?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best brand of cast iron skillet will vary depending on your preferences. Some of the factors that you may want to consider include price, weight, size, and design. We’ve compiled a list of the five best brands of cast iron skillets based on customer reviews and ratings, so you can be sure that you’re getting a quality product.
How can you tell if a cast iron skillet is good?
Not all cast iron skillets are created equal, so it is important to do your research before you make a purchase. Some of the factors you may want to consider include weight, size, and design. In general, a good cast iron skillet will be heavy and have a smooth finish. It should also be able to go from the stovetop to the oven without any problems.
What is the best way to season a cast iron skillet?
The best way to season a cast iron skillet is by using a combination of vegetable shortening and baking soda. First, coat the skillet with vegetable shortening, then sprinkle it with baking soda. Place the skillet in a preheated oven and bake it for one hour. Once it is cool, rinse it with hot water and dry it thoroughly. Your skillet will be ready to use!
What is the difference between a cast iron skillet and a non-stick skillet?
The main difference between a cast iron skillet and a non-stick skillet is that a cast iron skillet is non-stick naturally. This means that you don’t need to use any chemicals or coatings to keep food from sticking. Cast iron skillets are also a better option for searing meat, as they produce a more intense heat than non-stick skillets.
What can you cook in a cast iron skillet?
Cast iron skillets are versatile kitchen tools, so you can cook a variety of different dishes in them. Some of the things you can cook in a cast iron skillet include eggs, bacon, burgers, chicken, fish, and vegetables. They can also be used to bake desserts, such as brownies and cakes.
Final Words
Cast iron skillet is an essential tool in any kitchen. It’s a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for a variety of dishes. If you’re looking for the best-cast iron skillet, we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ll give you our top five picks and tell you why each one is a great option. We also have some tips on how to care for your cast iron skillet so it lasts for years to come. So what are you waiting for? Scroll down and check out our picks! Have you tried using a cast-iron skillet before? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below.
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