If you’re in the market for a new skillet, there are a few materials you might be considering. There’s gleaming stainless steel or a slick nonstick ceramic, both of which are great non-toxic cookware options. But in my opinion, it’s hard to beat old-fashioned cast iron. As a trained chef, recipe developer, and food writer, my trusty cast iron skillet is my go-to for everything from pancakes to grilled cheese sandwiches.
Cast iron is a heavy-duty, highly durable material — a true kitchen workhorse that you can rely on from breakfast all the way through dessert (skillet cranberry and apple crumble, anyone?). If you’re looking to invest in a reliable pan that will earn a permanent place on your stovetop, these are our favorite cast iron skillets to choose from.
TL;DR
Scroll to grab our Organic Authority discount code for savings on Caraway cast iron skillets.
Why Many Frying Pans Don’t Last
If you’ve been using a nonstick skillet, you may have noticed that your cookware doesn’t hold up as long as you expect. The delicate surface coating can chip or break down over time with regular use. If food starts sticking or your pan looks discolored, it might be time to replace it (even if it seems like you just bought it).
With cast iron cookware, you might spend a little more upfront, but you won’t need to replace your favorite skillet every few years. Plus, these pans create their own nonstick cooking surface over time by building up layers of seasoning. It’s the kind of cookware that gets better with time, and that’s an investment we can get behind.
Why Cast Iron Cookware Remains a Kitchen Staple
Cast iron cookware has truly withstood the test of time. This simple material is incredibly durable, versatile, and consistent. And like we said, the more you use your cast iron cookware, the better it performs. Cooking fat bonds to the metal when heated, and layers of this eventually stack on top of one another to create a surface that can handle anything you throw at it.
Enameled cast iron is an alternative to cast iron that features a glass-like coating. It isn’t technically seasoned, but the enamel offers its own kind of nonstick surface that prevents rust and can be easier to maintain. It can also typically handle acidic dishes like acidic tomato sauces or a lemony pan-fried chicken better than regular cast iron.
Whether you opt for bare cast iron or enameled, both options deliver excellent heat retention and consistent cooking performance. It’s this reliability that makes cast iron my personal favorite cookware material.
The Criteria: How We Ranked the Best Cast Iron Skillets
We tested a range of brands to help you identify the best cast iron skillet for you. To do this, we looked past marketing claims and reputation to focus on each pan’s real-world performance and answer: what is the best cast iron skillet to buy today?
I tested each skillet in this guide by making stir-fries, fried eggs, and seared meat to assess heat distribution and retention. I also considered ease-of-use factors, such as weight, shape, and handle design. Overall value, durability, and usability were also important considerations in choosing the best skillets for this guide.
1. Staub Traditional Deep Skillet
The Staub Traditional Deep Skillet is ideal for large-batch cooking, sautéing, and baking, thanks to the higher sides that help keep your food from escaping. Even though this is an enameled skillet, Staub makes some of the more traditional cast iron cookware options on this list, and that shows in its performance. This piece is made in France and features Staub’s signature textured matte black cooking surface with a colorful exterior.
The dark interior is excellent for searing and browning. I also love that the skillet has two pouring spouts, which come in handy for draining liquid or making things like pan sauces and gravies. It’s worth noting that this is a heavier pan and the handle is on the shorter side, so if grip limitations are a concern, you may want something smaller or lighter.
That said, this traditional skillet looks great and was a top performer for heat distribution and food release, thanks to the smooth cooking surface that doesn’t require seasoning. Note that though this pan is technically dishwasher-safe, I recommend hand-washing whenever possible to protect the cooking surface and enamel.
Specs:
- Size: 17.3’’ L x 12.6’’ W x 2.1’’ H
- Capacity: 2.96 qt
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
Price: $179.99 at time of publish
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Textured interior promotes strong browning without seasoning
- Weight & Maneuverability: 3/5 – Heavier cast iron improves heat retention, but is harder to manage
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Thick cast iron construction maintains steady heat for searing and baking
- Handle Design: 4/5 – Sturdy handle with dual pouring spouts improves control during serving
- Price vs. Longevity: 4/5 – Premium craftsmanship and durable enamel built for lifetime use
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Deep sides reduce splatter during frying and sautéing | Heavier than other options | ||||||
| Textured matte enamel interior improves browning | Shorter handle may not be comfortable for everyone | ||||||
| Side spouts for mess-free pouring | |||||||
| Dishwasher-safe enamel surface simplifies cleaning |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Staub users love the high sides on this cast iron pan, which are especially appreciated during messy tasks. Reviewers also mention that the rough matte interior is great for browning meats and is easy to clean and maintain without seasoning.
For a detailed review of what it’s like to use Staub’s enameled cast iron, take a peek at our experience with their classic Dutch oven.
2. Made In Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
Speaking of enameled cast iron skillets, Made In is another direct-to-consumer cookware brand that makes an Enameled Cast Iron Skillet we love. We were already huge fans of Made In from their CeramiClad™ nonstick cookware, but their cast iron might just give that a run for its money.
This gorgeously crafted pan has rapidly become my go-to for baking and casseroles. It’s oven-safe up to 580°F, which is higher than others I’ve tested. This slightly higher heat capacity means you can easily brown the top of your cauliflower cheese or quickly crisp up Brussels sprouts.
Again, the dark enamel coating offers a smooth cooking surface that doesn’t require any high-maintenance seasoning. While you can’t see browning quite as well in a black skillet as you can on a light-colored cooking surface, the black enamel retains heat well and doesn’t stain easily. This pan created a nice crisp, even sear on chicken thighs during testing. It’s also great for finishing dishes in the oven, including roasts. The handles are sturdy and comfortable to maneuver around the kitchen, and I found it to be a great size for meals to serve four.
Specs:
- Size: 11.5’’ W x 17.5’’ L x 2.63’’ H
- Weight: 5.8 lbs
- Oven-safe up to 580°F
Price: $179
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Smooth enamel surface does not require seasoning
- Weight & Maneuverability: 4/5 – Mid-weight cast iron is manageable in the kitchen
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Thick cast iron body retains and spreads heat evenly for consistent searing
- Handle Design: 4/5 – Long handle provides good grip and control
- Price vs. Longevity: 4.5/5 – Quality construction and lifetime warranty support the price
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Very high oven temperature limit (580°F) | Handle design may feel heavy or short for some users | ||||||
| PFAS-free enamel coating | Enamel surface can chip | ||||||
| Dark enamel interior promotes searing | |||||||
| Lifetime warranty |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Many users highlight this skillet’s ability to maintain steady heat during high-temperature cooking, which helps produce strong searing and even browning. Reviewers often mention that the dark enamel interior performs well for cooking steaks, chicken, and vegetables, and is easier to clean than non-enameled cast iron. The skillet’s ability to handle oven temperatures up to 580°F also makes it popular for recipes that start on the stove and finish in the oven.
Read our guide to Made In cookware collections that elevate everyday home cooking.
3. Caraway Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
We love Caraway for their commitment to making aesthetically pleasing kitchen gear that never skimps on performance. The Enameled Cast Iron Skillet combines the excellent heat retention of cast iron with the convenience of a nonstick enamel surface. You won’t need to worry about seasoning this skillet, thanks to the triple-layer enamel coating that’s free of PFAS like PTFE and PFOA (AKA “forever chemicals”).
The skillet has a sturdy long handle and a shorter helper handle that’s sufficient, if not the sturdiest, for moving it in and out of the oven. During testing, it delivered even heat distribution for a gorgeous sear on my steaks. The nonstick surface was great for fried eggs, though it’s important to properly preheat the pan over medium-low heat for several minutes and add a drizzle of oil or pat of butter to fully avoid sticking. I loved that it offered a variety of colorways (which isn’t always an option for cast iron pans!), and it proved itself well-balanced and great for everyday use.
Specs:
- Size: 16.5’’ L x 10.5’’ W x 2’’ H
- Capacity: 2.3 qt
- Weight: 5.8 lbs
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- Compatible with all stovetops (induction, gas, electric)
Price: $185
Exclusive Organic Authority discount! Shop now and save 10% when you use our code: organicauthority10
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Smooth enamel surface means it doesn’t require seasoning like other cast iron skillets
- Weight & Maneuverability: 4/5 – A great mid-weight skillet with two handles for a secure grip
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Cast iron core spreads and retains heat evenly for reliable searing and browning
- Handle Design: 4.5/5 – Sculpted handle improves grip and balance
- Price vs. Longevity: 4/5 – Premium price justified by durable construction and a lifetime warranty
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Durable enamel coating requires no seasoning | Enamel surface can chip | ||||||
| Free from PFAS, PTFE, and PFOA | Helper handle is on the small side | ||||||
| Excellent heat retention for searing and frying | |||||||
| Compatible with all stovetops | |||||||
| Backed by a lifetime warranty |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Owners of this Caraway pan love that it combines the durability and performance of trusty cast iron skillets with the ease of nonstick. Many reviewers mention the pan’s strong heat retention for searing and that the cooking surface distributes heat evenly. Of course, people also love the attractive color options and that it looks great on the stove and kitchen table.
Check out our top Caraway non-toxic cookware picks for a full kitchen refresh.
Exclusive Organic Authority discount! Shop now and save 10% when you use our code: organicauthority10
4. Our Place Cast Iron Always Pan
If you’re looking for a cast iron skillet that does more than your average pan, this number from Our Place is your answer. We’re big Our Place fans around here because they constantly push the envelope with their gorgeous designs, from their sleek Wonder Oven air fryer (plus the upgraded Wonder Oven Pro) to their classic Essentials collection.
Unlike the other cast iron cookware I tested, the Cast Iron Always Pan includes a clear tempered glass lid that expands the pan’s versatility. It also comes with silicone grips and a wooden spoon that attaches to the handle, so you never risk your proteins burning while you’re digging around in drawers looking for your spoon rest.
At 6.9 pounds, this heavy-duty 10.5-inch skillet weighs more than others I tested, but it also has deeper sides that protect your stove from splatters and lost veggies during a stir-fry. I love that the glass lid is crystal-clear and the dome is high enough to accommodate a small roast or bird. The pan is oven-safe up to 500°F, and the lid can handle up to 425°F, which is great for braising. This skillet is cheaper than some of the competition and is designed to be paired with smart accessories, including a handmade traditional tagine and a handy splatter guard for fearless frying, making this one of the most versatile cast iron skillets I tested.
Specs:
- Includes Always Pan in enameled cast iron, steam-release glass lid, Nesting Beechwood spatula, and custom silicone Hot Grips
- Size: 9.5’’ L x 10’’ W, 2.7’’ H
- Capacity: 1.9-qt
- Weight: 6.9 lbs (body)
- Oven-safe up to 500°F (lid up to 425°F)
- Compatible with all cooktops, including induction
Price: $135 $109 at time of publish
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Matte enamel interior enables excellent browning and doesn’t require seasoning
- Weight & Maneuverability: 3.5/5 – Slightly heavier than other skillets
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Thick cast iron retains heat well for consistent frying, searing, and roasting
- Handle Design: 5/5 – Long handle and included silicone grips offer easier and safer maneuvering
- Price vs. Longevity: 4/5 – Multifunctional design and additional accessories offer good long-term value and versatility
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Includes glass lid, spatula, and silicone hot grips | Heavier than many standard frying pans | ||||||
| Matte enamel interior designed for strong browning | Glass lid only oven safe to 425°F | ||||||
| Compatible accessories offer a full kitchen system | |||||||
| Designed for stovetop, oven, broiler, and table serving |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Many users appreciate that the versatility of the Our Place pan means it can be used for a variety of recipes, from sautéing and braising to steaming and stir-frying. Reviewers also mention that the pan offers great heat retention and searing, and that the included and additional accessories make it more capable and fun-to-use than other cast iron skillets.
If you’re curious about what it’s like to cook with the Always Pan, explore our full review of the Our Place Essentials collection.
5. Le Creuset Signature Skillet
The Le Creuset Signature Skillet is a bit of a legend in the cookware world, thanks to its iconic design, beautiful color options, and heirloom-quality construction. If you ask a group of people about the best cast iron skillet, chances are at least one of them will mention Le Creuset. But even putting aside aesthetics and reputation, this skillet is a serious performer in the kitchen. Yes, it’s an investment, but it’s a good one — I still use the Le Creuset skillet that my grandmother received as a wedding gift.
The 10.25-inch pan is a great size for serving up to four (or baking for more). The skillet has two handy pouring spouts, and I love the larger helper handle, which offers a more secure grip than most of the skillets I tested. This pan is incredibly durable — it doesn’t scratch, ding, or stain easily, and the black cooking surface helps disguise any discoloration. The enameled matte black interior comes ready to cook, no seasoning required. It’s smoother than the Staub skillet’s interior and feels nearly nonstick (although there are always pros and cons to both — explore our comparison of Staub vs. Le Creuset Dutch ovens to get a sense of what we mean).
Specs:
- Size: 10.2’’ L x 10.2’’ W x 1.4’’ H
- Weight: 5.3 lbs
- Compatible with all cooktops
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
Price: $229.95
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Black enamel interior performs well at higher temperatures and develops a natural patina for easy food release
- Weight & Maneuverability: 4.5/5 – Lighter than other options
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Cast iron cookware provides steady heat for searing, roasting, and baking
- Handle Design: 4/5 – Long ergonomic handle for stable transfer
- Price vs. Longevity: 4/5 – Premium price justified by durable construction and lifetime warranty
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Black enamel interior handles higher heat well | Premium price | ||||||
| Lighter weight than other options | Relatively shallow cooking depth (about 1.4 inches) | ||||||
| Durable porcelain enamel resists staining, dulling, and cracking | |||||||
| Oven-safe up to 500°F | |||||||
| Dishwasher-safe and metal utensil-safe |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
This skillet gets high praise from reviewers for its combination of excellent cooking performance and easy maintenance. Users appreciate that the enamel surface produces a solid sear without requiring seasoning. Reviewers also mention loving that, like all good cast iron skillets, it can also double as a baking dish.
If you’re debating between Staub and Le Creuset, take a peek at our review breaking down the differences between their Dutch ovens.
6. Smithey No. 10 Skillet
The Smithey No. 10 Cast Iron Skillet’s gleaming copper-toned finish makes it a showpiece for your kitchen. And it doesn’t just talk the talk; it walks the walk. The smooth, polished interior comes pre-seasoned and offers excellent food release from the get-go. Though this is a heavy pot, it’s for good reason — the thick cast iron body means first-rate heat retention. It also has a much-needed helper handle and a comfortable long handle for maneuvering.
I like the two-inch side walls on this pan, which help contain food and make it more practical for baking pies and cobblers. Both handles have hanging holes for easy storage, and the skillet has two pour spouts for decanting cooking grease or drizzling a sauce over seared steak. The smooth cooking surface produced an even sear and was super easy to clean with warm, soapy water.
Specs:
- Size: 10’’ W x 16.5’’ L x 2’’ H
- Weight: 6.7 lbs
- Oven-safe up to 1000°F
Price: $198
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Polished interior offers excellent food release and easy cleaning
- Weight & Maneuverability: 4/5 – Helper handle improves control, though the pan is fairly heavy (especially when full)
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Thick cast iron body maintains stable heat for searing and frying
- Handle Design: 4.5/5 – Long handle, helper handle, and pouring spouts improve balance and usability
- Price vs. Longevity: 4/5 – Premium price justified by long-term durability and heirloom quality of these cast iron pans
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Attractive polished interior | Pricey for the size | ||||||
| Helper handle has holes for hanging | Heavier than other options | ||||||
| Dual pouring spouts | Polished surface may require a few cooking cycles to build strong seasoning | ||||||
| Pre-seasoned with grapeseed oil |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Cooks love this Smithey skillet for its polished cooking surface, which looks and feels high-end compared to other non-enameled cast iron surfaces. Reviewers note how easily food releases from the pan when cooking and cleaning. Though some people mention that the pan is heavy, they also report that the helper handle and balanced design make it comfortable to transport. Several reviewers describe this pan as heirloom-quality.
7. Field Company No.6 Cast Iron Skillet
The Field Company No.6 Cast Iron Skillet is a smaller and lighter option. In fact, I’d go as far as to say this is the best lightweight cast iron skillet on this list for one- to two-person households. These pans are made in the USA and have a smooth, bare cast iron finish. This is a great option for first-time cast iron users, as the cooking surface comes pre-seasoned and the pan is easy to maneuver. And if you’re just getting used to cast iron, remember to pre-heat it on low for up to 5 minutes before you start cooking!
I found that this skillet readily took on additional layers of seasoning. It arrived fairly nonstick already, and with a few cooks, I noticed significant improvement. The skillet shows excellent heat distribution and retention, though it’s not as thick-walled as heavier options. I prefer to use this for smaller dishes that go from stove to oven, as it’s light enough to comfortably move around the kitchen.
Specs:
- Size: 8.37’’ diameter, 7’’ cooking surface
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Oven-safe up to 550°F
- Compatible with all cooktops
- Hand-wash only
Price: $135 $114.75 at time of publish
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4.5/5 – Smooth cooking surface helps build a natural nonstick seasoning faster than rougher cast iron pans
- Weight & Maneuverability: 5/5 – At just 3 pounds, it’s much lighter than other options
- Heat Distribution: 4/5 – Cast iron body retains heat well for frying and searing
- Handle Design: 4/5 – Slim handle is well-balanced and easy to move around
- Price vs. Longevity: 4.5/5 – Durable construction and American manufacturing support long-term value
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Lightweight cast iron | Smaller cooking area than larger skillets | ||||||
| Smooth surface helps develop seasoning quickly | |||||||
| Pre-seasoned with organic grapeseed oil | |||||||
| Made in the USA using recycled iron |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Reviewers frequently highlight that this skillet is lightweight and easy to manage. Cooks like the smooth, easy-to-season surface and that it’s great for everyday tasks like frying eggs and preparing small meals. If you’re after the best lightweight cast iron skillet for small households, this is a solid choice.
8. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
The Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is one of the most popular (and affordable!) cast iron cookware options out there, and I can really understand why. I’ve personally used my Lodge skillet nearly every day for almost 10 years. It’s earned a permanent spot on my stovetop, and I love that it’s reliable, easy to maintain, and offers the perfect cooking surface for everything from scrambled eggs to big-batch desserts.
The 12-inch skillet weighs over 7.5 pounds, which is heavy, but on par with other high-quality cast-iron cookware. As long as I use two hands (the generous helper handle is important here), I never struggle to move a full skillet around the kitchen.
This skillet offers solid heat retention and searing abilities. It’s durable and rugged enough to take on a camping trip or throw on the grill, and it’s essentially indestructible. This might not be the most aesthetic or delicate piece of cookware you own, but it really delivers. Whether you’re new to cast iron cooking or a seasoned pro, a Lodge is a budget-friendly option that gets the job done.
Specs:
- Size: 18’’ L x 12.56’’ W x 2.25’’ H
- Capacity: 1.89 L
- Weight: 7.69 lbs
- Compatible with all cooktops
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
Price: $36.95 $29.90 at time of publish
Criteria Evaluation
- Surface Texture & Seasoning: 4/5 – Pre-seasoned surface works well out of the box and continues to improve with use
- Weight & Maneuverability: 3.5/5 – Heavier than many cast iron pans, making it harder to handle for some cooks
- Heat Distribution: 4.5/5 – Thick cast iron body retains heat well for searing and frying
- Handle Design: 4/5 – Long handle with helper handle improves control when lifting a full skillet
- Price vs. Longevity: 5/5 – Extremely affordable and designed to last for decades
| Pros | Cons | ||||||
| Affordable | Heavier than other similar skillets | ||||||
| Large 12-inch cooking surface works well for family meals | Large size may feel bulky for small kitchens or single meals | ||||||
| Pre-seasoned with vegetable oil | |||||||
| Extremely durable construction | |||||||
| Works on nearly any heat source, including grills and campfires |
Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Home cooks highly recommend this Lodge skillet because it delivers top-tier performance at an accessible price. Reviewers often mention that the skillet holds heat extremely well and works for a wide variety of recipes, from frying eggs to baking skillet cornbread. Although the cooking surface is rougher than that of some premium cast iron skillets, many users report that it becomes smoother over time as seasoning builds (I can attest to this!). Because of its durability, price, and versatility, the Lodge skillet is often recommended as a starter cast iron pan for cooks new to the material.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Type | Size | Strongest Attribute | Best For | What Makes it Different | Price | |||||
| Staub Traditional Deep Skillet | Enameled cast iron | 8.5 in | Deep sides reduce splatter, textured surface offers superior browning | Small bakes and sautéing without a mess | Deep, straight sides plus side pouring spouts | $179.99 | |||||
| Made In Enameled Cast Iron Skillet | Enameled cast iron | 10 in | High-heat, performance-focused enamel interior | Hard sears, stovetop-to-oven finishes | Dark enamel built for high-heat browning | $179 | |||||
| Caraway Enameled Cast Iron Skillet | Enameled cast iron | 10.5 in | Low-maintenance enamel with cast iron searing power | Everyday cooking and easy cleanup | 3-layer enamel and modern handle design | $185 | |||||
| Our Place Cast Iron Always Pan | Enameled cast iron | 10.5 in | All-in-one pan system with included accessories | One-pan meals, braising, simmering, serving | Comes with lid, spatula, and hot grips | $109 at time of publish | |||||
| Le Creuset Signature Skillet | Enameled cast iron | 10.25 in | Black satin enamel that improves with patina | Searing, roasting, oven-to-table dishes | Black satin interior designed for higher surface temps, lighter due to capacity | $229.95 | |||||
| Smithey No. 10 Skillet | Bare cast iron (pre-seasoned) | 10 in | Polished interior for easier wipe-clean | Premium everyday skillet cooking | Polished cooking surface plus pour spouts | $198 | |||||
| Field Company No.6 Cast Iron Skillet | Bare cast iron (pre-seasoned) | 8⅜ in | Lightweight, vintage-style cast iron feel | Eggs, breakfast, small meals | Very light at about 3 lbs, with smoother casting | $114.75 at time of publish | |||||
| Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet | Bare cast iron (pre-seasoned) | 12 in | Best budget workhorse with large cooking area | Family meals, big batch cooking, grilling and camping | Classic 12-inch value pick, can be used on the grill and campfire | $29.90 | |||||
Bare Cast Iron vs. Enameled Cast Iron
As we’ve covered in this guide, you have two finish options for cast iron skillets: bare cast iron and enameled. The untreated cast iron options in this guide come pre-seasoned and will develop further seasoning over time, as cooking fats bind to the surface and create layers of patina. Enameled cast iron, on the other hand, has a smooth coating that prevents rust and doesn’t require seasoning — but it’s typically more expensive as a result. You’ll still need to use cooking fat and avoid metal utensils on the enamel surface, which can scratch.
Both options offer the benefit of cast iron’s excellent heat retention and durability, but the right choice for your kitchen depends on your cooking style and how you plan to use the pan. For optimal searing and browning, opt for matte black enamel or bare cast iron. Bare cast iron wins every time when it comes to longevity, so it’s the way to go if you’re looking for something that’s practically impossible to crack and only gets better with time. You can even whip it out for outdoor cooking on a fire or grill!
On the other hand, enamel is great for baking, sautéing, eggs, and acidic dishes like tomato- or wine-based sauces. Enamel-coated cast iron pans have less of a learning curve to get used to, making them arguably easier to use right out of the gate.
If you’re still not sold on cast iron, explore our guide to the differences between carbon steel, stainless steel, and cast iron.
How to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet
Cast iron can get a bad rep for being hard to maintain — but the truth is that cleaning cast iron isn’t that different from any other pot or pan you care about. Both bare cast iron and enameled pans can be cleaned with warm, soapy water after use. For stuck-on food, you can use a scrub brush.
The most important thing is not to let the pan sit in water or drip-dry, which can cause it to rust. This is especially true for bare cast iron. After washing, be sure to dry the skillet with a clean dish towel or put it on the stove over low heat for a few minutes to let the moisture evaporate.
Best Foods to Cook in a Cast Iron Skillet
A cast iron skillet is a great place to cook anything you’d make in a frying pan, baking dish, or braiser. Because it can go from the stove to the oven and offers excellent heat retention, it’s perfect for searing meat, poultry, and seafood, or even making a fancy pan sauce. You can braise shallow items, bake quick breads and pies, and even roast veggies or toast nuts.
I also use mine for scrambled and fried eggs, pot pies, and deep-dish pizzas. If you’re looking for versatility in your cookware, it really doesn’t get much better than a cast iron skillet.
What’s the Best Size for a Cast Iron Skillet?
As always, the best size cast iron skillet for you depends on how you plan to use it. If you’re searing or roasting, it’s important to have ample cooking surface area to give your food enough room to brown, not steam.
Of course, cast iron is heavy, and an overly large pan can be cumbersome to manage. For feeding one to two people, an 8-inch skillet is a great choice. For four or more, opt for a 10- to 12-inch skillet, and for big-batch cooking, you may want a 14-inch pan.
Choosing Your Perfect Pan
If you prefer something light and nimble, consider a smaller or thinner-walled skillet. If you need a large, sturdy workhorse to feed a full house, opt for a bigger pan with comfortable handles. Or, if beautiful aesthetics make you reach for your pan more often, pick an enameled skillet in a color that matches your kitchen.
You’ll also want to consider storage, unless, like me, you leave your cast iron pan on the stove all the time. If you prefer to hang your skillet, look for handles with holes. If you want to keep your cookware collection as pared down and versatile as possible, consider a skillet with a matching lid that can be used for steaming, boiling, and braising.
Ultimately, the right cast iron skillet can become your go-to piece of cookware for everything from quick one-pan meals to elaborate cooking and baking projects. Each of the cast iron skillets on this list checks the boxes for ease of use, performance, and durability, so figure out your preferences and go from there!
Interested in other non-toxic cookware materials? Consider these options.
