8 Best Cast Iron Skillets [TRIED AND TESTED]

This is our review of the best cast iron skillets.If you are a cook, foodie, chef, or homemaker who loves eating rich and sumptuous foods, then you must be familiar with the benefits of cast iron skillets. Cast iron pans are also very durable since they can last for decades; in fact, it’s not really unusual to find vintage cast iron pans still in excellent condition.

best cast iron skillet

Cast iron skillets have been used for cooking since time immemorial. They are very versatile cookware. No other cookware is capable of serving so many purposes. In addition, cast iron skillets are very cheap and relatively long-lasting. They also help provide an even heat distribution when it comes to cooking meals.

They are being used in most households even today. If you have some experience using regular cookware, using cast iron pans would be a breeze. But before you start using a coated cast iron skillet, there are certain things that you must know about them to get the most out of them.

Today, we will look at all the things you need to know about cast iron pans. We will also compare different brands and types available in the market. Finally, we’ll provide you with the best eight cast iron skillets on the market, Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan, 12 inch, Black being our best-rated cast iron skillet.

Let’s get started without further ado!

Contents show

What is a Cast Iron Skillet And What is it Used For

A cast-iron pan is a type of cookware made from cast iron. It has curved walls and no base. You are supposed to heat it up before cooking. There are also flat-bottomed cast pans in circulation.

A cast-iron skillet is a solid piece of iron that has been melted and poured into a mold. They are effortless to use as you just have to heat them before cooking, and they can also be used for a variety of purposes.

Cast iron pans were very popular in the past and used to be a regular household item. It is still used today but not as much because of advances in technology.

Cast iron skillets can be used for slow cooking, frying, baking, searing, broiling, roasting, and braising. They can retain heat very well, which makes them perfect for oven-cooking. Cast iron skillets are fairly inexpensive and very durable. They can last for a long time with proper care.

Some people believe that using a coated cast iron skillet will add iron to your food. This is because fine particles of iron are present in the cast-iron pan that seep into your food. However, this is not true. Iron leaching into the food only occurs when cooking acidic foods like tomato sauce or vinegar dishes.

What is the Best Way to Season a Cast Iron Skillet?

Many people who are new to using cast-iron pans believe that seasoning a pan is complex. However, it is not. All you need is a cast-iron skillet, a few tablespoons of olive oil, and a rag.

First, you need to choose a cast-iron skillet. Next, make sure that the one you are buying is pre-seasoned. If it is not, then you can season it yourself by following the steps below:

  1. Now heat your oven to 350°F (176 ℃).
  2. While the oven is heating up, add the olive oil to a bowl and put it in your cast-iron skillet. Make sure that you coat the surface thoroughly with a thin layer of oil.
  3. Now place your cast iron pan in the oven and bake it for one hour.
  4. After baking, take the skillet out of the oven and let it cool down. Your cast-iron pan is now ready for use.

Carbon Steel vs. Cast Iron – The Difference

It is often difficult to choose between these two types of skillets, and most people usually go with the more popular option. However, people who have used both types of cooking skillets would say that cast iron is better.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of these two types of pans so you can decide which one to go for:

  • Carbon steel is lighter than cast-iron skillets. So if you are on the move frequently, carbon steel is a better choice. However, cast-iron skillets are much more durable and last longer.
  • Carbon steel doesn’t require pre-seasoning. They come out of the box ready to use. However, if you don’t pre-season your cast-iron pan properly, then it will rust quickly.
  • With carbon steel, you get an even distribution of heat. This makes cooking easier and faster. However, cast-iron skillets don’t distribute the heat well, which is why foods tend to burn easily.
  • Carbon steel pans can rust if not properly seasoned or cleaned after use. They also need to be washed using hot water while cast-iron is dishwasher-safe.
  • Carbon steel skillets are also very versatile and can be used in ovens and on grills. But you cannot use cast-iron skillets in ovens or on open flame because they are not designed for that.

Top Cast Iron Skillets – an Overview

  1. Best Rated Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan, 12 inch, Black
  2. Best Affordable Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, 10.25″, Black
  3. Best Camping Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Miniature Skillet, 3.5″, Black
  4. Best Grilling Cast Iron Skillet: Jim Beam JB0159, Heavy Duty Construction, Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Wooden Base and Mitt, Black, Small
  5. Best Vintage Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Manufacturing Company carbon steel skillet, 8″, Black
  6. Best 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet: Legend Cast Iron Skillet with Lid | Large 12” Frying Pan with Glass Lid & Silicone Handle for Oven, Induction, Cooking, Pizza, Sautéing & Grilling | Lightly Pre-Seasoned Cookware Gets Better with Use
  7. Best 10″ Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Griddle, Round, 10.5 Inch
  8. Best Value Cast Iron Skillet: Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set 3-Piece – 6 Inch, 8 Inch, and 10 Inch

The Best Cast Iron Skillets Reviewed

Best Rated Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan, 12 inch, Black

Amazon Choice Award for “Skillets by Lodge”

  • How many inches is the pan: 12 inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Two loop side handles

Weight: 6.61 pounds

  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black
  • Model name: L10SKL

This cast-iron pan features two loop side handles made of pure raw material, and it has an ergonomically designed spout that makes pouring liquids easy without any mess. In addition, this product is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil inside and out.

It is suitable for gas, electric, induction, ceramic top, and in the oven. The results are outstanding with this pan because the heat is distributed evenly. This cast-iron pan can retain the temperature for a long time, and it provides you with maximum control over your cooking. You can use it for searing, grilling, frying, or baking, even in the oven.

This pan is easy to grip because of its dual side handles. It is easy to clean, and you can also use soap and water if required, unlike other cast-iron skillets. The skillet is also safe for induction cooktops.

This cast iron pan is unparalleled in heat retention, and it is one of the best-cast iron skillets in the market because it has a heavy-duty construction. It is suitable for a large family because of its 12-inch size.

ProsCons
Features an ergonomically designed spout for easy pouringDishwasher safeGood quality and heavy-dutySuitable for searing, grilling, frying, and baking Easy to grip because of its dual side handlesLarge enough to feed an entire family It is heavyUnsuitable for use in the microwaveHandle gets hot on the stovetop

Best Affordable Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, 10.25″, Black

Amazon Choice Award in “Skillets by Lodge”

  • How many inches is the pan: 10.25 inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Easy to grip
  • Weight: 5 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black

Lodge manufactures their products in the USA, and they are made of sturdy material. This cast-iron pan is pre-seasoned with pure natural vegetable oil, so you don’t need to season it yourself. The food also doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

If you are looking for a reliable and high-quality cast-iron skillet, then you should definitely go for this one. The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is easy to clean; however, make sure you hand wash it with warm water to avoid rusting.

This skillet has unparalleled heat retention, and it can retain heat for a long time. So if you are cooking something that requires high heat, then this is the best choice for you. You can use this skillet to bake, sear, fry, grill, and even broil your food. It is also suitable for induction cooktops and is oven-friendly.

The seasoned surface of this skillet allows you to cook food with less oil when compared to other cast-iron pans. It cooks food evenly, without any hot spots, which can burn your food. The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet also features an assist handle to make it easy for you to lift it.

This skillet is a heavy-duty product with a decent weight and an easy-to-grip handle. It also has excellent heat distribution, which means fast cooking and even distribution of heat.

ProsCons
Easy to clean, dishwasher safeOven-friendlyIt has a high heat retentionLess oil is required for cookingSuitable for induction cooktopsIt comes with an assist handleQuite heavyHandle gets hot on the stovetop

Best for Camping: Lodge Miniature Skillet, 3.5″, Black

Amazon Choice Award in “Skillets”

  • How many inches is the pan: 3.5 Inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Comes with an assist handle
  • Weight: 6.61 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black

This miniature skillet features a beautiful black color, and it is ideal for cooking individual portions. You can use this skillet for baking cookies, brownies, or heat leftovers.

It is pre-seasoned, and it has a handle that provides you with a comfortable grip while cooking. In addition, it features two spouts that allow you to pour without any mess. You can also use it to serve food because of its size.

This product is safe for all stovetops, except induction cooktops. It can retain the heat while cooking, and its surface allows for an even distribution of heat while reducing hot spots. To clean this mini skillet, you can use hot water, soap, and a towel to wipe it dry. It is oven-safe, but you must cover it with aluminum foil while cooking.

This product is rust-free and is quite durable. It can resist chips, nicks, or scratches. It is ideal for small families or individuals because of its size, and it is also perfect for camping.

ProsCons
It offers a comfortable gripHeat is distributed evenly with no hot spotsIdeal for cooking individual portions It comes with two spouts that allow you to pour without any messEasy to clean in the dishwasher or by handIdeal for camping and small familiesIt is suitable for only limited purposes, such as heating leftovers or baking cookies and brownies The small handle gets hot on the stovetop

Best for Grilling: Jim Beam JB0159, Heavy Duty Construction, Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Wooden Base and Mitt, Black, Small

Amazon Choice Award in “Skillets by Jim Beam”

  • How many inches is the pan: 3.5 Inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Comes with a handle mitt
  • Weight: 3.24 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black
  • Model name: JB0159

This cast-iron skillet can retain heat, which is distributed evenly during cooking. The wooden base allows you to transport it safely to the table or buffet when serving food. It also comes with a handle mitt that keeps you safe from the heat and allows for comfortable and safe transport.

This product features two spouts that allow you to pour liquids easily without spilling the content. You can use it in the oven, on a grill, on a stovetop, over a campfire, or any other open flame.

Jim Beam JB0159 cooks food evenly, and it is ideal for cooking various dishes such as bacon, eggs, chicken, fried fish, hamburger meat, and sautéed vegetables.

This skillet is pre-seasoned, and it doesn’t need any extra oil before cooking. Both the surface and the metal are safe for cooking. You can also hand wash this skillet in soapy water and dry it thoroughly before storing it in a cool, dry place.

ProsCons
It comes with a wooden base and a handle mitt for safe transport to the table or buffet Small enough to fit in storage with limited spaceIt is oven-friendly and safe for cooking various dishesIt has a pre-seasoned surface, and metal is safe for cookingIt is easy to clean, and it doesn’t require any oil before cookingHandle gets hot on the stovetopIt is too small for cooking an entire meal for a family between four and five members

Best Vintage Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Manufacturing Company carbon steel skillet, 8″, Black

  • How many inches is the pan: 8 Inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Two handles
  • Weight: 2.12 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black
  • Model name: CRS8DLH

This product is ideal for frying, searing, and sautéing. It features a carbon steel construction, which is pre-seasoned and ready to use. It is suitable for cooking on different stovetops, including electric, gas, or induction stoves.

It is eight inches in size and features two handles for comfortable use while cooking. It is long-lasting, and it features a sturdy and durable construction that can last for years.

This skillet allows you to cook your favorite dishes without burning them because of its high-quality, pre-seasoned surface. It holds the heat and distributes it evenly, which helps you keep the cooking time to a minimum.

It can be washed by hand in soapy water, and it is easy to clean. You can also use a paper towel to remove any excess oil from the surface before storing it in a dry place.

ProsCons
It comes with a pre-seasoned surface, and it is ready to use straight out the boxIt doesn’t need any extra oil before cookingIt features sturdy and durable constructionIt comes with two handles for easy useEasy to cleanHandle gets hot on the stovetop

Best 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet: Legend Cast Iron Skillet with Lid | Large 12” Frying Pan with Glass Lid & Silicone Handle for Oven, Induction, Cooking, Pizza, Sautéing & Grilling | Lightly Pre-Seasoned Cookware Gets Better with Use

Amazon Choice Award in “Skillets by LEGEND CAST IRON”

  • How many inches is the pan: 12 Inches
  • Warranties and guarantees where applicable: Not applicable
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Longer handle that comes with a heat resistant holder
  • Weight: 10.43 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: Yes, a tempered glass lid
  • Color: Black

This cast-iron skillet comes with a lid, and it is suitable for frying, searing, and sautéing. It is pre-seasoned with organic vegetable oil and features a nonstick surface to make cooking faster and easier.

It doesn’t need any additional oil before cooking, but you can apply a small amount of oil if you wish. Most foods don’t require extra fat because the surface is nonstick.

This skillet heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly throughout its surface. It has a unique feature that allows you to see what’s inside without lifting the lid. It is suitable for cooking on just about any stovetop, including induction.

The skillet has a silicone handle that stays cool on the stovetop, so you don’t have to worry about scalding yourself while cooking. Another advantage is the fact that you can easily take it from the stovetop to the oven. You don’t have to worry about transferring it using hot pads or oven mitts.

It is easy to clean, and it doesn’t require any oil before cooking on it, but if you choose to, you can apply a small amount of oil.

ProsCons
It features two pour spouts on the side of the skilletIt features a unique lid, which allows you to see what’s inside without lifting itIts surface is nonstick and easy to cleanIt is suitable for cooking on various stovetops, including inductionIt comes with a glass lid, and you can use it in the ovenIt is too heavy for some people to use

Best 10″ Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Griddle, Round, 10.5 Inch

Amazon Choice Award in “Griddles by Lodge”

  • How many inches is the pan: 10.5 Inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: No
  • Handle: Long handle
  • Weight: 4.5 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black
  • Model name: L9OG3PLT

This cast-iron pan has a round shape, and its surface is flat. It is ideal for cooking pancakes, bacon, sausages, and other types of breakfast foods.

It has a diameter of 10.5 inches and a long handle on one side for easy transfer from stovetop to table. It is perfectly suitable for preparing breakfast, whether you host the entire family or just cook for yourself.

It can be used to cook on any stovetop, including induction since it is pre-seasoned. It can also be washed by hand using hot water and soap, but it is recommended that you never use harsh detergents since they can affect the surface. Also, make sure the skillet is completely dry before storing it away.

It is a versatile kitchen appliance that you can use to cook numerous dishes. It is suitable for frying, sautéing, searing, grilling, or even baking. You can also use it in the oven or on a campfire.

ProsCons
It has a round shape, which allows you to transfer it easilyIt is pre-seasoned with organic vegetable oil and ready to use upon purchaseIt comes with a long handle on one side for easier transferIt can be used on various stovetops, including inductionHandle gets hot when cooking on the stovetop

Best Value: Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set 3-Piece – 6 Inch, 8 Inch, and 10 Inch

  • How many inches is the pan: 6 Inch, 8 Inch, & 10 Inches
  • Does the pan need seasoning before use to retain heat: Yes
  • Handle: Long handle
  • Weight: 9.38 pounds
  • Does it come with a lid: No
  • Color: Black
  • Model name: UK0224

This cast-iron cookware set comes in three different sizes, allowing you to choose the right size for the recipes you want to prepare. It features a flat surface and a long handle on one side for easy transfer from stovetop to table. You can use it to prepare multiple dishes, and it is perfect for cooking breakfast foods.

The cast iron sets are suitable for all stovetops, including induction. It can be washed in hot water and soap, but it is recommended that you never use harsh detergents. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it away.

It is a versatile kitchen appliance that you can use to cook numerous dishes. It is suitable for frying, sautéing, searing, grilling, or even baking. You can also use it in the oven or on a campfire.

This product is pre-seasoned with soy-based oil and ready to use upon purchase. However, it is recommended that you season it once more before first use to achieve a non-stick surface.

ProsCons
It comes in three different sizes so that you can choose the right one depending on your cooking needsFeatures a flat surface and long handle on one side for easier transferIt comes pre-seasoned with soy-based oil and is ready to use upon purchaseEasy to clean and can be used on various stovetops, including inductionHandle gets hot when cooking on the stovetopNot dishwasher safe

Your Cast Iron Skillet Shopping Guide

If you are looking for the best-cast iron skillet, there are a few factors to consider.

Some of them include:

Factory-Seasoned

A cast-iron skillet is not suitable for cooking unless it is adequately seasoned. In addition, it has to be tempered to create a stick-resistant surface. Make sure the skillet you choose is factory-seasoned so that it is ready to use.

Maneuverability

Make sure you choose a cast iron pan that is easy to maneuver. It should be lightweight, so it does not strain your wrist when you lift it or pour food into it. The handle should be long enough to provide you with a sturdy grip, and it should be firmly attached to the pan.

Large Pour Spout

Some cast-iron skillets have a pour spout that is smaller than the size of the grill. If you are making crepes, omelets, or pancakes, you want a large pour spout to prevent spillage. It should also be deep enough for easy serving and stirring.

Drip-Free Pouring

If you want your food not to fall out of the pan, choose a model that has a large pour spout and is drip-free. A drip-free pouring feature prevents food from dripping out of the pan.

Budget

You do not have to spend a lot of money to get the best cast-iron skillets. Several affordable options will provide you with many years of use. However, the more you pay, the longer your skillet will last.

What is the Best Way to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet?

When it comes to cleaning a cast-iron skillet, you have two options.

You can clean it in the dishwasher or by hand.

The best way to clean it is by hand, with warm water and a plastic scrubber brush. If food sticks to the pan, you can use a plastic brush or spatula to scrape it off gently. Avoid using metal utensils or abrasives since they can damage the surface of the pan.

To get a non-stick finish, you have to season the cast pan after each wash. Then, apply a thin layer of oil to the pan and heat it in your oven.

How Can You Tell if a Cast Iron Skillet is Good?

When buying a cast-iron skillet, you can tell if it is good by checking the following characteristics:

  1. It should be well-constructed and sturdy.
  2. It should have a flat surface and a long handle on the side for easy pouring.
  3. The handle should be firmly attached to the pan, and it should be big enough for a comfortable grip.
  4. The skillet must not have any holes or cracks, and it should be free of rust.
  5. The flat surface should be large enough for easy cooking.
  6. It should have a smooth surface that does not easily scrape off food when you are cleaning it.
  7. It should have a non-stick finish and drip-free pouring.
  8. Finally, the pan should be dishwasher-safe.

How to Care for a Cast Iron Skillet

Most cast-iron skillets are pre-seasoned. Therefore, they do not have to be seasoned before use unless they are factory-new. However, even a seasoned cast-iron skillet can benefit from a few maintenance tips.

  • Be sure to wash the pan with hot water after each use. Do not soak it in the sink since the food particles might rust it.
  • Once you are done cooking, do not pour cold water into a hot skillet that has just been washed. The sudden shift in temperature can warp its shape or cause pitting on its surface.
  •  If you live in a humid climate, make sure to dry the pan thoroughly after washing it.
  • When it is not in use, allow the pan to cool completely before storing it. Do not store heavy items on its surface since this might damage it even further. Do not stack other pans or pots on top of your cast-iron skillet either.
  • If you want to maintain the non-stick finish of your pan, keep it seasoned. Apply a thin layer of oil and bake it in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour.

Antique and Artisan Skillets

An antique skillet is a great kitchen piece, although it requires proper maintenance. For example, it should be seasoned after each wash, and you should avoid using soaps on it since this might strip its protective layer.

Artisan pans, on the other hand, are handmade and have a unique design and look. These pieces will add flavor to your cooking and an artistic touch to your kitchen.

Why Should You Trust The Proud Italian

The Proud Italian is an independent blog that provides honest, unbiased reviews of all sorts of kitchen items. We do not accept sponsored posts or free products from manufacturers. We only recommend products that we have tried and tested ourselves. Our team includes professional chefs who test all the cookware in our kitchens for durability and functionality.

The Proud Italian’s team of chefs and testers only recommends products that deliver on their promises. We inform our readers about any possible drawbacks or shortcomings of each item, which allows them to make an educated buying decision.

We make sure that we provide an accurate and detailed description of the product and deliver images of it from multiple angles. In addition, we include information on where you can buy the product, its price range, and how to care for it.

Our Top Pick Summarized

If you are looking for the best cast-iron skillet, look no further than the Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan. It comes pre-seasoned and does not require any additional seasoning or preparation before cooking. This pan has a smooth surface that prevents food from sticking to it. Its dual handle design also makes it easier to lift and maneuver when you cook in it.

The Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan is made in the USA and has an affordable price tag. It is free of harmful chemicals and large enough to cook for two people.

This cast iron cookware is the perfect choice if you are looking for an everyday pan that can cook all sorts of food.  If you want your food cooked evenly and quickly over high heat, this is our top pick!

Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!