A cast iron skillet is a workhorse and can do just about anything. Plenty of people, including chefs, swear by these pans. Also, a cast iron pan should be heavy-it’s iron, after all. If the surface is shiny or has a non-stick covering (like teflon), it’s not cast iron. They may even have a layer of black seasoning. The best cast iron pans have a dark and dull surface. In general, you’ll want to look at the inside of the pan. Some companies try to pass off their skillets as cast iron when they’re really not. How can you tell if a cast iron skillet is good? I use this pan 2-3 times a week, it actually has gotten better over time.” One happy reviewer raves, “The cooking surface is flawless. Perfectly pre-seasoned with soy based oil, it’s ready to use right out of the box with a size and weight that work well for the oven, stove, grill or over a campfire. Its high rating is thanks to its versatility and quality at a lower price point. This classic skillet is a top-rated option on Amazon, with 4.7 out of 5 stars and more than 18,000 ratings. Most Popular On Amazon: Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned 12.5-inch Cast Iron SkilletĪmazon Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - Utopia Kitchen BUY FROM AMAZON.Best Cast Iron Skillet For Beginners: Kana Milo Ultimate Skillet.Best Polished Cast Iron Skillet: Smithey No.Best Nonstick Cast Iron Skillet: Victoria Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet.Best Double Handle Cast Iron Skillet: Staub Double-Handled Enameled Cast Iron Skillet.Best Cast Iron Skillet Set: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle 3-Piece Set.Best Deep Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Saute Pan.Best Enameled Cast Iron Skillet: Le Creuset Signature Skillet.Best Budget Cast Iron Skillet: Valor Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet.Best Premium Cast Iron Skillet: Field Company #8.Best Cast Iron Skillet For Everyday Use: Lodge 8” Skillet.From the best budget pick to the perfect pan for beginners, any one of them deserves a spot in your kitchen. Whether you’re new to cast iron or are looking to grow your collection, here are some of the best cast iron skillets across the board. For these reasons, it’s often a better choice for beginners or those looking for lower-maintenance pots and pans. Unlike traditional cast iron, enameled cast iron is fully nonstick right out of the box, and you can clean it more vigorously without worrying about damage. You’ll also want to consider the depth of your pan, as a skillet with shallow walls isn’t ideal for making sauces.Īs you shop, you’ll likely encounter the term “enameled cast iron,” which means the metal has been coated with a durable non-porous glaze. Eight- or 10-inch skillets are often best for everyday use, while those cooking for larger households might want to size up to a 12- or 14-inch skillet-just make sure your stovetop can accommodate the larger cookware. LodgeĬast iron skillets come in a number of standard sizes. Lodge's classic cast iron skillets are a top choice for everyday use.