The Best Cast Iron Frying Pans In 2024: Best For Selection
By, Hailey AbbottUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - 12 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan
The 12" Lodge seasoned cast iron skillet is the perfect tool for any cook. This versatile cooking tool provides an ergonomic design with a deep, scooped-out handle that is easy to grip and won't slip in your hand. The skillet features extra-thick walls for durability and a pre-seasoned exterior for even distribution of heat and a natural non-stick surface for cooking convenience Read Review
2. Runner Up: Utopia Kitchen 12.5 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet - Frying Pan
Utopia have pre-seasoned the Utopia Kitchen 12.5 inch Cast Iron skillet to make cooking simple and easy. The cast iron cookware is less smoother than non-stick cookware so it creates better, more even heat distribution when cooking on your stovetop or in your oven. It's also a great way to add extra iron to your diet! Read Review
3. Best Performance: Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron Frying Pan
This cast-iron skillet is designed with the user in mind. It features a thicker edge, a deep vessel for sauces or larger food items and drip-free spouts on each side. Its curved handle and long construction ensure comfort. The pre-seasoned surface helps build seasoning with each use and is PTFE- and PFOA-free for healthier cooking. Read Review
4. Best Versatile: Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set
With its unique handles for easy maneuvering and pouring, the Cast Iron Pan Set is ideal for cooking delicious food on the grill or stovetop. We have managed to pack three different sizes of these pre-seasoned frying pans into this bundle, so you'll have the perfect-sized skillet for a wide range of uses. Read Review
Cast iron is a great choice for cooking because it retains heat really well and is also very durable. In fact, it’s not uncommon to see people using cast iron cookware hundreds of times without any maintenance needed. However, finding the best-cast iron frying pan can be a little daunting. On one hand, you have low-end brands that are to manufacture but do not perform as expected.
And on the other hand, you have expensive brands that offer high build quality and can get pricey over time. Finding that perfect balance is key when looking for a good cast iron frying pan but with so many options and traps to avoid, it can be difficult to know where to start. This article will go over some of the factors you should consider when choosing a new cast iron frying pan as well as some of our top recommendations for the best-cast iron frying pan available today.
Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - 12 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance. If you're looking for another one, consider Utopia Kitchen 12.5 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet - Frying Pan.
RELATED: Our specialists have compiled 10 best 12 inch skillet with lid on the market in 2024 that will satisfy both your demands and your budget.
Our Top Picks
- 12 INCH CAST IRON SKILLET. This seasoned skillet is ready to use and is extremely versatile. It has a 12 inch diameter and is 2 inches deep. The ergonomic design allows this skillet to be taken from the campfire or stovetop to the table, making it essential for every kitchen.
- MAKE EVERY MEAL A MEMORY. Lodge knows that cooking is about more than just the food; it’s about the memories. This dynamic skillet can be used for slow weekend mornings with bacon and eggs or summertime BBQ’s with roasted veggies.
- PRE-SEASONED COOKWARE. A good seasoning makes all the difference. Lodge provides pre-seasoned cookware with no synthetic chemicals; just soy based vegetable oil. The more you use your iron, the better the seasoning becomes.
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it’s a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America.
- MADE IN THE USA. Lodge has been making cast iron cookware in South Pittsburg, Tennessee (pop. 3,300) since 1896. With over 120 years of experience, their cast iron is known for its high quality design, lifetime durability, and cooking versatility.
- Allow cast iron skillet to cool completely before washing them in hot soapy water with a sponge using a regular dish washing liquid soap; it is not dishwasher-safe
- These 12.5 inches skillet pan are suitable for both stovetop and oven for evenly cooking variety of different meals; Cast iron cookware is less smoother than the Non-Stick cookware
- Hand wash before first use and dry immediately; rub with a light coating of vegetable oil after every wash
- Its superior heat retention will keep your mouth watering food warm for a long time
- Iron deficiency is fairly common worldwide especially among women so cooking food in a cast iron skillet can increase iron content by as much as 20%
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- SEASONING GUIDE – Our skillets are pre-seasoned but it is recommended to season the cast iron pan set with any vegetable oil before use. After washing, rub some oil over your cookware's surface and place it in an oven at low temperature for the oil to seep in.
- EVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION – Our premium quality non-toxic cookware set is coated with an extra layer of protection that ensures the equal distribution of heat for an improved cooking experience.
- CAST IRON PAN SET - The bundle of three includes 10, 8, and 6 inches pre-seasoned frying pans; ideal sizes for domestic and outdoor use. Our cast iron pan set comes with unique handles for easy maneuvering and pouring.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS – Cool the skillets completely before washing in hot soapy water with a sponge using a regular dishwashing liquid soap.
- VERSATILE USAGE – The skillet pans are highly compatible, as they can be used on any heating source. You can also use them for grilling, frying, sautéing, roasting, braising, and broiling meats, vegetables, and more.
- 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).
- Black satin interior enamel is specially formulated for higher surface temperatures to enhance cooking performance
- Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
- Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
- Lightest weight cast iron by quart on the market
- Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F
- Ready to use, requires no seasoning
- Safe for dishwasher and metal utensils
- MADE IN THE USA. Lodge has been making cast iron cookware in South Pittsburg, Tennessee (pop. 3,300) since 1896. With over 120 years of experience, their cast iron is known for its high quality design, lifetime durability, and cooking versatility
- SEASONED COOKWARE. A good seasoning makes all the difference. Lodge seasons its cookware with 100% vegetable oil; no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use your iron, the better the seasoning will get
- 17 INCH CAST IRON SKILLET. This seasoned cast iron skillet is ready to use and extremely versatile with a diameter of 17 inches and a 2-inch depth. With ample cooking surface and an ergonomic 2 handle design, it is perfect for the campfire, the oven, and the tabletop
- MAKE EVERY MEAL A MEMORY. Lodge knows that cooking is about more than just the food; it’s about the memories. This dynamic 2-loop handle skillet can be used for slow weekend mornings with bacon and eggs or summertime BBQ’s with roasted veggies
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it’s a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America
- GIVE THE GIFT OF LOVE – For the chef who swears by cast iron; for the home cook who’s discovered its allure; for the sourdough baker; for the guy with a penchant for cooking; for the granny who appreciates the high-quality of yesteryear. Give ‘em the gift of a Legend.
- THE PAN. THE MYTH. THE LEGEND – Famous for lifelong durability and workhorse versatility, Legend cast iron combines a rich heritage with modern cooking needs. Cast from solid, pure, premium steel and iron, this healthy nonstick skillet is THE master of heat distribution.
- BEYOND-LEGENDARY QUALITY – Legend Cast Iron pots and pans are made to last a lifetime and then some. Nothing beats cast iron’s durability; just try putting a dent in this! When our superior quality craftsmanship partners with your culinary passions, you can expect great things.
- LONGER HANDLE FOR EASIER LIFTING – 10-inch skillet features our extra-long handle design and includes a heat-resistant holder + tempered glass lid. Now you can master all your favorite dishes and enjoy easier handling when cooking and serving.
- IMPROVES WITH EVERY USE – The more you cook, the better it performs. Your Legend skillet arrives with a foundational seasoning of 100% vegetable oil (no synthetics or chemicals). As you build up your own seasoning, you write your story into a pan that’s worth passing down.
- EVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION – Our premium quality non-toxic cookware set is coated with an extra layer of protection that ensures the equal distribution of heat for an improved cooking experience.
- SEASONING GUIDE – Our skillets are pre-seasoned but it is recommended to season the cast iron pan set with any vegetable oil before use. After washing, rub some oil over your cookware's surface and place it in an oven at low temperature for the oil to seep in.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS – Cool the skillets completely before washing in hot soapy water with a sponge using a regular dishwashing liquid soap.
- CAST IRON PAN – The Cast Iron Grill Pan comes with pre-seasoned quality, making it ready for use straight out of the box and preventing any rusting issue. Our cast iron pan set comes with unique handles for easy maneuvering and pouring.
- VERSATILE USAGE – The skillet pans are highly compatible, as they can be used on any heating source. You can also use them for grilling, frying, sautéing, roasting, braising, and broiling meats, vegetables, and more.
- PROFESSIONAL QUALITY - Turn up the heat! This pro cast iron skillet maintains unbeatable heat retention across the entire base area to ensure an evenly cooked meal, every time.
- MULTI-USE - Don't leave quality meals at the door. These do-it-all cast iron skillets can be used for camping and travel, as well as any indoor or outdoor cooking.
- PERFECT PRESENT - This well-seasoned, nonstick skillet features a handle on both sides that would make any cook giddy. Give it to the blooming baker or master chef in your life!
- DURABLE - Our cast iron cookware is built to last for generations of chefs to come. It comes pre-seasoned, but can always be re-seasoned for a just-bought-it feel with every stir.
- VERSATILE COOKING - From frying to getting your grill on, this cooking pan can do it all. It's perfect for cornbread, steak, crepes, frittatas, pie - the options are endless!
What Tips Are Recommended To Recognize Which Of best cast iron frying pans Will Satisfy You Most?
Some people are apprehensive about purchasing best cast iron frying pans. Numerous factors must be addressed while making a significant purchase. Our market expertise will help you make the best decision as soon as possible.
The thing has been added to the list of products that have been subjected to technical testing and evaluation. Please keep the following points in mind:
Cleaning
Materials
You should use enameled and bare cast-iron pans for high-heat cooking. They can heat up quickly and resist higher temperatures. Stainless steel can be used to create sauces or braise meats. You can clean nonstick pans easily, but it's important to note that they have a lower heat threshold than some other materials.
Heat Distribution
Ease Of Use
Size
FAQs
Can You Put A Skillet In The Oven?
In general, the answer is yes. You should check that the pan you purchased is safe for the oven. Also, make sure to note the heat limit. Carbon steel and cast iron are able to tolerate very high heat (600 degrees or more), while stainless steel (450 to 600 degrees) can usually withstand slightly lower temperatures. Nonstick, however, is typically in the lower temperature range (335 to 450 degrees depending on which nonstick coating) Refer to your manufacturer's instruction manual as a guide.
How Do You Clean A Cast Iron Or Carbon Steel Skillet?
Cast iron is very similar in materials and maintenance to carbon steel, so it's best to clean them both the same. Here's the quick summary: After letting your pan cool off, clean it with a brush or scrubber. After drying the skillet, apply a bit of oil to it and then heat the skillet on the stove. Use a cloth or towel to apply the oil to the inside of the skillet to retain the seasoning. Here are more instructions.
What's The Difference Between A Skillet, Frying Pan, And Sauté Pan?
It all depends on where you live and whom you ask. Although some people interchange the terms, they are almost identical. They have high-quality, straight sides (or slightly angled), and an enclosed lid that helps keep moisture and heat in the pan.
In everyday language, a frying pan is sometimes called a skillet. However, the lidless pans have flared, lower sides to allow you to access your food with a spatula. They also feature curved sides that make it easy for you to slide foods onto a plate, such as pancakes and omelets.
Do Stainless Steel Skillets Warp?
An oven is less likely to be warp if its cladding is good. The thickness of 5-ply (or 7-ply) makes it less likely that a skillet will warp than 3-ply. America's Test Kitchen's stainless steel skillets induction wrought some warping, as we mentioned elsewhere, but this was not an issue for us with our top choices.
What Can You Cook In A Stainless-steel Skillet?
You can't go wrong! These skillets, which are both heat-responsive and a good conductor of heat, are perfect for two types of stovetop cooking: sauteeing (or searing). The skillets' solid construction makes them great for roasting in an oven. It is best not to use them for cooking that involves a lot more liquids, such as braising.
What Is A Fully Clad Skillet?
If the pan's internal core, the part that heats, is fully clad, it covers both the bottom as well as the sides. They are usually more expensive than fully-clad ones, but the savings can be well-worth it. If the stainless steel skillets you have are prone to scorching around their edges, then they may not be fully clad.
In summary, we will update best cast iron frying pans list as soon as new information is available. For the latest news, please visit our websites regularly or subscribe to our newsletter.
Please not feel hesitant to contact us if you have any queries or difficulties with best cast iron frying pans. If you ask, we'll do everything we can to help!
READ NEXT: Top Best Coffee Makers With Grinder For You In 2024 & Buying Tips
About Hailey Abbott
