There are few cooking tools that offer a chef's kitchen the same versatility that a cast iron skillet does. This tool is a must-have for the beginner chef honing his or her craft, as well as the experienced chef who can bring out the full potential of a cast iron skillet. Whether you are cooking over a stove or placing it in the oven at high temperatures, the best cast iron skillet should always have a place in your cooking arsenal.

Aside from being versatile in the kitchen, the best cast iron skillets are available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. These tools can be identified by their different features, which highlights their unique value. There is an optimal skillet for each type of chef.

The process of personalizing your cooking tools can help shape your cooking style and ultimately guide your decision regarding what type of chef you wish to be. When it comes to buying the best cast iron skillet for your culinary adventures, you’ll want to take some time deciding which option fits your needs and your aspirations. Keep in mind, however, that no cast iron skillet should ever be run through your dishwasher--unlike with many other pieces of cookware, that is not something that needs consideration for this investment!

The benefits of shopping with a small company are clearly on display through GreaterGoods. Unlike the cookware titans of the industry, the smaller guys will make sure you are taken care of. The St. Louis-based, local customer service experience adds a lot of value to their Cast Iron Skillet. Their team is ready to answer all your questions, as this company truly cares about the quality of their product.

Evidence of this statement lies with the way they season this cast iron skillet. Many companies opt for cheap oils that can be harmful to health down the line when in use. However, GreaterGoods solely uses cold pressed, USDA-certified organic flaxseed oil to season this pan. The care is unmatched when it comes to consumer interest.

However due to the somewhat less powerful organic oil used, maintenance is required on a frequent basis. If the upkeep is ignored, many consumers have noted that black residue starts to fall from the interior of the skillet. The bottom line is that this product requires attention to perform at the highest level, but it is made for those who pay attention to the health benefits of using organic oil and don't mind putting the time in.

GreaterGoods also nailed the surface of this cast iron skillet. Many companies promote nonstick, but it is difficult to achieve and maintain this feat. GreaterGoods passes this portion of the exam with excellent grades. This skillet genuinely has one of the smoothest surfaces on the market. You need not shy away from cooking food such as eggs! It can certainly handle anything you may throw at it.

Key Features
  • Handmade with care
  • Pre-seasoned with USDA-certified organic flaxseed oil
  • Sidewalls are well-polished
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 10 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: GreaterGoods
Pros
  • Smooth surface
  • Purchase helps fight human trafficking and support victims
  • Local support in St. Louis
Cons
  • Black residue if maintenance is ignored

If you’re looking for the best cast iron skillet money can buy, then look no further. The Signature Round Cast-iron Skillet from Le Creuset is designed to impress even the most experienced chefs in the kitchen. Although it is user friendly for beginner chefs as well, the price may turn some consumers away. That being said, if you’re shopping without a budget, this is the clear and obvious choice.

In fact, this piece of cookware does offer some benefits for those shopping on a budget as well; this cast iron skillet is sure to last you a lifetime, so consider it a smart, one-time investment. Le Creuset's skillet is made in France, the gastronomic hub of the world.

Several companies advertise the nonstick function of a cast iron skillet, but no matter how nonstick they may be, no pan does "nonstick" justice quite like this Creuset model. Even the skillet's nemesis, eggs, don’t stand a chance. Eggs will slide right off this skillet into your plate, every time.

Another unique attribute of the Signature series is the color options. I can't think of a better way to brighten up a kitchen! The colors range from blue and red to indigo and orange. This sense of personalization is sorely lacking amongst other cooking products. Lastly, the sloped sides that are unique to the Signature Round Cast-iron Skillet allow for oil, grease, or any type of liquid to pour from the pan with ease. This is perfect for applying the finishing touch to your own signature dish.

Key Features
  • Made in France
  • Matte-enamel interior
  • Comfortable two handle design
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 10.25 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: Le Creuset
Pros
  • Reliable
  • Durable interior protected from scratches and chipping
  • Sloped sides
Cons
  • Expensive

This miniature cast iron skillet from Lodge (model 742341) comes equipped with all the benefits a chef could ask for when looking for a new tool. This versatile item is ideal for use on the stove or in the oven. Its excellent heat retention adds to its versatile nature.

Due to the size of the product, it is not as heavy as traditional cast iron skillets, making it much easier to handle and transfer from heat to table. Weight is the number one complaint that consumers seem to have with these types of skillets! Luckily if you decide to decrease in size, the skillet becomes lighter, and this gives the Lodge Miniature Skillet a great advantage.

Just like any cast iron skillet, if treated with care, this product can last a lifetime—so much so that many are often handed down from one generation to the next. Lodge is one of the true market leaders in terms of quality and durability.

The minimal care this product demands makes it easy enough to maintain. After use, it is recommended to wash this skillet with water and a sponge, but avoid using soap, as it may damage the nonstick surface.

Although it does come pre-seasoned, it is recommended to season the skillet further, in order to fully optimize the nonstick attributes. Once again, this is a process that is simple enough to research and perform no matter what your culinary prowess, given you have some time on your hands.

This particular skillet is perfectly suited for baking and serving directly out of the oven due to its stylish design. Ideal for classic desserts such as apple pie.

Key Features
  • Easy to clean; wash by hand, dry and rub with cooking oil
  • Excellent heat retention
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 3.5 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: Lodge
Pros
  • Design is sleek and stylish; excellent for serving directly
  • Easy care, no need for soap; wash and dry by hand
  • Excellent heat retention perfect for trendy desserts
Cons
  • Must invest time into additional seasoning for true nonstick quality

Unlike several other products in its class, the T-fal Pre-Seasoned Durable Nonstick Cast Iron Skillet is made to resist heat up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. The standard is roughly 500 degrees, which means this pan is extremely heat resistant!

Another feature that sets this T-fal skillet apart from the rest of the pack is its pouring spouts; only a few cast iron skillets come equipped with these highly useful additions. These built-in pouring spouts are perfect for draining leftover fat residue or oil from your dish without having to transfer any food products, use a lid for straining, or break out a second pan. Furthermore, the handles are extremely user friendly. This skillet sports a long main handle used to carry the pan and an additional side handle that makes maneuvering this heavy skillet a little easier.

Unfortunately, this skillet does tend to be on the heavy side—a recurring theme amongst cast iron skillets. It is rare to happen across a lightweight cast iron skillet. Usually only the smallest or highest quality products will boast that feature. Ultimately, the weight is not a huge issue, but it can be uncomfortable for some.

On the other hand, the reported uneven interior surface of this pan is certainly a concerning issue. Many consumers have noticed bumps and craters on the surface of the interior of their skillet. This leads to uneven seasoning, which eventually leads to the absence of nonstick in certain areas. For a product in this price range, its unsettling that this issue seems to be common. Still, the benefits still outweigh the issues with this product.

Key Features
  • Oven safe up to 600 degrees F
  • Pre-seasoned
  • Extra long handle
Specifications
  • Size: 10.25 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: T-fal
Pros
  • Pouring spouts
  • Standard size for burners
  • Easy grip handles
  • PFOA and Cadmium free
Cons
  • Not recommended for glass top stoves due to possibility of leaving scratches
  • Heavy

Right from the start, it is nice to see that the Backcountry Cast Iron Skillet comes with a handle cover. This is perhaps the most underrated feature of products in this category. It is far too easy to burn your hands on the handle when using a cast iron skillet in the oven, or even on the stovetop for that matter. You can easily slide the included handle cover on and off when necessary. With the handle cover on, this skillet can be used as a serving dish which looks incredibly trendy, along with being safer for guests.

Another great quality of this particular skillet is its size to weight ratio. For an eight-inch skillet, which is considered just about the average size, it’s relatively light. It weighs in at just over three pounds, which is excellent for those who have a hard time dealing with traditional cast iron skillets that tend to be on the heavy side.

In addition, the fact that this skillet is eight inches makes it perfect for storing. Why transfer leftovers into a tupperware when this pan easily stores right into your fridge? This versatile and user-friendly pan is a step ahead of the competition.

Unfortunately, as with many cast iron skillets, this product requires high levels of maintenance. Washing and drying are quite simple and don’t require too much effort; however, the skillet must be seasoned regularly to maintain its longevity. The price point is a tad high considering the size of this pan, but its quality should not be underestimated.

Key Features
  • Pre-seasoned and ready to use
  • Nonstick, Teflon-like surface
  • Cloth handle mitt
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 8 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: Backcountry Iron
Pros
  • As close to 100 percent nonstick as you can get out of the box
  • Small size is convenient for storage as well as cooking
Cons
  • High maintenance is needed to keep in great condition
  • Price point for value

As with most cast iron skillets of this size, the AmazonBasics Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Pan is heavy. However, those looking for a proper cast iron skillet shouldn’t mind! The weight of this skillet adds to its heat retention abilities, which is why it’s perfectly suited for the stove top as well as for baking and broiling in the oven.

The cleaning maintenance for this piece of cookware is quite easy to follow. It’s true that the best cast iron skillets last a lifetime, however proper etiquette is required; in order to fully clean the skillet, wash by hand only. Soap and other cleaning detergents should not be used on this product. It is imperative to dry the skillet with the same attention and care.

As previously mentioned, the size of this particular skillet is just right for stove top burners. It is neither miniature nor considered large by typical standards, and for this reason, it is suited to cook for two or three people with ease. Families of three or more should likely consider larger pans.

The only downside of this product is a fairly common, widespread issue with several cast iron skillets on the market: it lacks proper seasoning. This is not the end of the world, though, seeing as additional seasoning can be applied before the product is set to be in use. However, this does take some time. The product is not ready to use immediately, and many consumers may not have the time to invest in optimizing the skillets usefulness.

Key Features
  • Flat base with slightly flared edges
  • Well placed handles are chef-friendly
  • Safe to use with heat up to 500 degrees F
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 10.25 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: AmazonBasics
Pros
  • No lead or chemicals of any sort
  • Perfect for high heat
  • 10.25 inch fits average burner to perfection
Cons
  • Poor seasoning

The Victoria Mini Cast Iron Skillet (model SKL-206) is a fantastic option for anyone in the market for a quality cooking tool. The main attraction here is the ready-to-use feature of this product. Many cast iron skillets are not fully optimized for cooking straight away after purchase; it is usually recommended that the user apply seasoning to the pan by using oil. This in turn protects the pan from damage and brings out its nonstick quality. However, this cast iron skillet is already well seasoned.

Another typical cast iron skillet gripe that this sleek piece from Victoria corrects is its handling. This pan comes equipped with an extremely useful, long handle. Too many skillets come equipped with a handle of insufficient length. While this may slightly reduce the weight of the pan, these shorter grips lead to improper handling which can then lead to a serious burn. Luckily, this handle is not only long, but curved as well, which allows easy maneuvering in and out of the oven, both before and after your food is cooked.

In addition, the Victoria Mini Cast Iron Skillet is particularly light compared to standard cast iron skillets of the same size. Those who have a hard time using heavy cooking tools should definitely take a look at this skillet! This is especially beneficial to those who suffer from arthritis. It is important to understand that at 6.6 pounds, this skillet is still tough to deal with for some; however, the handle makes it significantly easier to do so.

Key Features
  • Long curved handle
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 100 percent non-GMO flaxseed oil seasoned coating
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 6.5 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: Victoria
Pros
  • Ready to use, 100 percent seasoned
  • Versatile
  • Nonstick
Cons
  • Rough surface

Many cast iron skillets do not come ready to use. Although you technically can use them straight out of the box, they are not fully optimized, and many models even suggest an initial wash to remove any debris from manufacturing, packaging, and transit. No matter which you choose to invest in, if you want to get the best out of your cast iron skillet for years to come, you will need to season it. This helps the skillet reach 100 percent efficiency, ease of use, and flavoring.

The amount of seasoning necessary varies from skillet to skillet. Unfortunately, this cuisinel pan needs at least 5 or 6 sessions before it is optimized, which is above the average. However, many consumers might not mind this drawback. It’s certainly an unavoidable task; if you're looking for any cast iron skillet, this is the baggage you must accept.

On the plus side, the Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet from cuisinel functions extremely well once that process is over! Whether this skillet is used on the stove or in the oven, it is expertly crafted to retain heat. Aside from ensuring even cooking, this feature means it can also be used as a serving plate without having to worry about a cold food problem.

Furthermore, this cast iron skillet comes with a protective, silicone handle cover. This beneficial little addition further cements the skillet's use as a serving dish. Easily slide the handle cover on and off before and after serving to prevent burning yourself and others.

Key Features
  • Comes with handle cover
  • Long term reliability
  • Excellent heat distribution for even cooking
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 8 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: cuisinel
Pros
  • Non-slip silicone hot handle holder
  • Price point
  • One-year money back guarantee
Cons
  • Must re-season regularly
  • Takes time and effort to maintain

The Crock Pot Artisan Preseasoned Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet gets a lot of things right. It comes with built-in side pouring ledges that are coveted by many consumers. Not all skillets come equipped with this feature, which adds value to this item through its ability to easily drain grease, oil, and other liquids without dirtying any other cookware.

Furthermore, this cast iron skillet comes in a wide variety of colors. With personalization options few and far between in this corner of the culinary market, it is a much-needed boost that elevates the product further. The price is fantastic as well, especially for an eight-inch skillet. There’s a lot to like in the price per quality column with this item.

Unfortunately, this cast iron skillet does come with certain negative aspects. There are numerous reports of chipping and tarnishing on the surface, which is concerning, especially for a product that should last a lifetime. It’s a shame that there is a trade-off for the bright vibrant colors that make this product worth buying, due to chipping.

It is worth noting, however, that there are some who did not experience this misfortune. Perhaps if one is accustomed to treating their cooking tools with attention and care, they can avoid the common chipping.

Ultimately, the Crock Pot Artisan Preseasoned Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet does come with a risk, but at this great price, it’s a small risk. If you trust yourself to keep this skillet in excellent condition, then you shouldn’t run into any problems!

Key Features
  • Available in several colors
  • Easy to clean
  • Side spouts
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 8 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: Crock Pot
Pros
  • Distributes heat evenly
  • Size is perfect for fridge storage
Cons
  • Several customers stating damaged pans upon arrival
  • Prone to chipping after several uses

Bayou Classic's Double Handled Cast Iron Skillet is the ideal pan for a family. This piece of cookware is large enough to cook a family-sized chicken and potatoes meal in the oven with ease. In fact, it’s hard to believe a niche pan of this size could be so versatile. From deep-dish pizza to apple pie, this skillet can do so much more than you could possibly imagine.

Like most skillets, this product comes pre-seasoned. Bayou Classic does recommend that another seasoning is added, but once complete, it'll be ready to cook.

Another attractive feature of this 16-inch skillet is its handles. If you're someone who absolutely needs a long handle for the stove top, this is not the skillet for you; however, the two side handles allow for expert storage and placement in the oven, with wedges between the handles on each side to facilitate the process of setting the pan down. It’s understandable that this pan does not come equipped with a long handle, as its whopping weight of 11.5 pounds makes that nearly impossible.

Steer clear of this skillet if you tend to mainly cook meals for a couple of people at most. The price does not justify that specific use, and you’ll be lugging around a very large skillet unnecessarily. In addition, as with any cast iron skillet, if you are not prepared to put some work in to maintain the pan's condition, then this is not the cooking tool for you.

Key Features
  • Large surface
  • Pour spouts
  • Looped handles
Specifications
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Size: 16 inch
  • Lid Included?: No
  • Brand: Bayou Classic
Pros
  • Large size is perfect for family-sized meals
  • Handles make it easy to store or use in oven
  • Depth is ideal for deep-dish pizza
Cons
  • Needs continuous maintenance
  • No long handle due to weight and size

What to Look For

At the base of it all, the main purpose of your cast iron skillet should be to cook, sear, and sauté. However, after doing some product research, it becomes clear that there are several features that are specific to certain skillets. Here are a few things to keep in mind concerning the usage and maintenance of the best cast iron skillets.

Nonstick

The number one benefit of cooking with a cast iron skillet is the nonstick feature. One of the most frustrating occurrences when cooking is undoubtedly when your food gets stuck to the pan. When cooking on a stove, there is almost guarantee that your food will stick to the surface of a bare pan, which leads to the application of an abundance of oil. This certainly isn't the healthiest way to cook! Luckily, the nonstick attributes of a cast iron skillet solve this problem. Of course, when cooking chicken, for example, you may still require oil; however, the levels are much lower.

Longevity

The best cast iron skillets will last a long time. Due to the long-lasting quality of this product, you may be saved from having to purchase several in your lifetime. Unless your cast iron skillet somehow cracks or breaks, you will without a doubt be using your pan for years to come, so you’ll want to do some research before making your investment.

Versatility

As previously mentioned in the introduction of this article, the best cast iron skillets are versatile. They are most commonly used on the stove, but what many people tend to forget is the skillet's ability to cook food in the oven. For example, a cast iron skillet can be used to cook an extraordinary apple pie to perfection in any type of oven.

Maintenance

One of the main reasons this item lasts so long is due to the ease in which it can be cared for. Aside from its near indestructibility, the cast iron skillet is a relatively easy product to keep in tip top shape. Many of its features go hand in hand to assist the overall maintenance factor. Due to its nonstick feature, the pan can be cleaned with as little as water and a sponge. Not using soap can even aid in increasing the lifespan of your skillet, so many chefs opt for hot water and a sponge, only. These two will combine perfectly to clean your skillet after cooking.

There’s no doubt that you will be using your cast iron skillet for years to come. Whether you are an inexperienced chef or a seasoned pro, a cast iron skillet is a must have for all chefs. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance that some research is conducted when deciding which cast iron skillet is best for you and your needs.

ResourcesGood Housekeeping, First We Feast

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