Cast iron skillets are a staple in any kitchen and are often regarded as heirlooms passed down through generations. Southern cookbook author and James Beard Award-winning chef Virginia Willis inherited her grandmother’s cast iron skillet, which she estimates to be over a century old. She recounts, “When I moved from New York, I packed the jewelry, irreplaceable art, and, most importantly, my cast iron skillet in my car.”
Cast iron skillets, like the one Willis treasures, are renowned for their durability, versatility, and ability to evenly distribute heat evenly, making them a must-have for any kitchen. Whether frying eggs, baking cornbread, or searing steaks, these skillets are built to last and improve with age. With so many options on the market, we tested a variety of cast iron pans to assess their design, performance, value, and ease of use. Here’s a roundup of our top picks and tips for selecting and caring for your cast iron skillet.
What brand of cast iron pans are the best?
Here are five top brands for cast iron pans:
- Best Overall Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
- Most Versatile Cast Iron Skillet: Stargazer Cast Iron Skillet
- Best Lightweight Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Blacklock Cast Iron Skillet
- Best Value Cast Iron Skillet: Camp Chef 10-inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
- Best Enameled Cast Iron Skillet: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
Which type of cast iron is best? [In-depth Analysis]
After investing a significant amount of time in rigorous research spanning 10 hours, I’ve compiled an extensive guide to help you identify the best type of cast iron cookware worthy of consideration.
Best Overall Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Lodge continues to set the benchmark for cast iron skillets, and the 10.25-inch model is no exception. This skillet impressed us with its excellent heat retention, even cooking capabilities, and ergonomic design, including large helper handles for easy manoeuvrability. The Lodge is also a fan favourite in the restaurant industry, and food writer Nick DeSimone agrees, “In all my years as a restaurant cook, I always turned to my Lodge skillet for reliable results.”
While the skillet offers fantastic capabilities, it does have a minor drawback: its small pour spouts. They can cause drips, but overall, the skillet is a top performer and provides tremendous value for the price. Cleaning is a breeze with warm water and holds seasoning well after repeated use.
- Diameter: 10.25 inches
- Depth: 2 inches
- Weight: 4.29 pounds
Most Versatile Cast Iron Skillet: Stargazer Cast Iron Skillet
When seasoned properly, the Stargazer skillet excels in versatility, boasting a smooth surface and excellent nonstick qualities. Its ergonomic design, featuring a curved handle and wide helper handle, makes it easy to use and control. In our tests, cornbread was released from the pan easily, though searing results were slightly uneven, with temperature fluctuations of up to 20°F across the pan.
Despite this, the skillet performed well in most tests and is ideal for cooks struggling with food sticking. Its sleek, durable design and consistent performance make it a solid choice for any kitchen.
- Diameter: 10.5 inches
- Depth: 2 inches
- Weight: 5.2 pounds
Best Lightweight Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Blacklock Cast Iron Skillet
For those looking for a lighter option, the Lodge Blacklock skillet is a boon. At just 3 pounds, it’s easy to lift with one hand, but it retains all the benefits of traditional cast iron. Its main handle is sturdy, though the small helper handle and narrow pour spouts could improve. The skillet is easy to maintain, requiring only a thin layer of oil after cleaning to preserve its seasoning.
While priced higher than the standard Lodge model, its lightweight design and simplicity make it an excellent option for everyday use.
- Diameter: 10.25 inches
- Depth: 2.5 inches
- Weight: 3 pounds
Best Value Cast Iron Skillet: Camp Chef 10-inch Cast Iron Skillet
The Camp Chef skillet stands out if you’re seeking an affordable yet high-performing skillet. It provided even searing and baking results at a fraction of the cost of other models. Its handle design also allows for easy flipping and removal from the oven. While the skillet did show temperature variations of up to 30°F, it maintained its nonstick capabilities throughout testing and stood up to more expensive competitors.
- Diameter: 10 inches
- Depth: 5 inches
- Weight: 5 pounds
Best Enameled Cast Iron Skillet: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
Le Creuset offers a premium option for those who prefer enamelled cast iron. With its enamel coating, this skillet requires no seasoning and provides a slick surface for cooking. It excels at retaining heat, though we encountered minor sticking during cornbread testing. The wide pour spouts simplify draining grease, but the shallow sides can cause splattering, so a wire rack or splatter screen may be helpful.
Despite these minor downsides, this skillet’s durability, ease of cleaning, and range of colour options make it a standout choice for home cooks and gift-givers alike.
- Diameter: 10.25 inches
- Depth: 3 inches
- Weight: 6.3 pounds
How We Tested
We rigorously tested each cast iron skillet over several weeks, using them for tasks like frying eggs, searing steaks, and baking cornbread. We assessed heat retention and even distribution using an infrared thermometer and evaluated nonstick performance with seasoned pans. Design factors like handle comfort, ease of manoeuvrability, and the effectiveness of pour spouts were considered. Finally, we reviewed the ease of cleaning and maintenance after each use, noting how well the skillets held up to regular care.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cast Iron Skillet
Type of Cast Iron
Standard cast iron skillets come bare or pre-seasoned. Pre-seasoned skillets are convenient and ready to use immediately, while bare cast iron requires seasoning before first use. Enameled cast iron, like Le Creuset, eliminates the need for seasoning but offers a different cooking experience due to its ceramic coating.
Size and Weight
The right size depends on your cooking needs. Virginia Willis recommends a 10-inch skillet for everyday use. Weight is also critical, as heavier skillets can be difficult to handle, especially if you frequently bake or roast. Consider your wrists when lifting a heavier skillet.
Care and Maintenance
While cast iron skillets are durable, they require proper maintenance. Contrary to popular belief, washing cast iron with soap is safe, but it’s essential to dry it thoroughly afterwards to prevent rust. A thin oil coating helps maintain the skillet’s seasoning and prevents moisture buildup. Over time, the surface of cast iron pans develops a smooth sheen, which enhances their nonstick capabilities.
Performance and Durability
Cast iron is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures and resist damage. However, it is not invincible. Over time, stress fractures can occur, and improper care can lead to rust or loss of seasoning. Utensils, such as a chainmail scrubber, are effective for removing stuck-on food, while a sponge is useful for everyday cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to pre-season a cast iron skillet?
Most cast iron skillets come pre-seasoned, but the seasoning will need to be refreshed over time. A good rule of thumb is to check if the pan’s surface looks matte or dry, which indicates it’s time for re-seasoning. Regular oiling after use helps extend the life of the skillet’s seasoning.
Can I wash my cast iron skillet with soap?
Modern dish soap is gentle enough to use on cast iron skillets without harming the seasoning. After washing the pan thoroughly, apply a light coat of oil to protect against moisture.
What foods should not be cooked in a cast iron skillet?
Acidic foods, like tomatoes or vinegar-based sauces, can erode the seasoning on cast iron, especially with extended cooking times. Delicate foods like eggs or fish may also stick if the seasoning needs to be well-maintained. For these types of dishes, consider using enamelled cast iron instead.
Cast iron skillets, from Lodge to Stargazer, are timeless kitchen tools that, with proper care, can last a lifetime. Whether you are an experienced chef or a beginner, the right skillet will enhance your cooking experience and elevate your favourite recipes.
Summary
Cast iron skillets are essential kitchen tools known for their durability, versatility, and heat distribution. After testing various options, top picks include Lodge for overall performance, Stargazer for versatility, and Le Creuset for enamelled cookware. When choosing a skillet, key factors include the type of cast iron, size, weight, and maintenance. While cast iron skillets require care, such as seasoning and proper cleaning, they can last for generations, enhancing cooking results over time with consistent use.