Whether you’re a self-proclaimed food fanatic or you’re simply looking to up your game in the kitchen, these cast iron skillets are guaranteed to work wonders.
Without further ado, this is the best cast iron that we know and use ourselves Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder, 10.25-inch. Do you addicted to steaks? Want to get strong and saturated grilled lines on your lovely piece of meat? Then our best seller at your service Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, Black, 10.5 Inch
With constant upgrades thanks to modern-day technology, kitchen basics have been taken up to the whole next level. And with so much on offer, it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve taken the liberty of compiling the best cast iron skillets in 2022.
Compared to other kitchen essentials on the market, cast-iron pans aren’t anything overly technical. When making a decision, brands, types, purposes and everything else comes into play. But is there really a difference in the quality of a cast iron pan? Let’s find out!
We’ve curated a collection of the finest cast iron skillets, including those that are best for high-end, value, design, grilling, frying and more. If you’re wondering how to pick the best cast iron skillet, this is your guide.
Best Brands of Cast Iron Skillets
If you’re on the hunt for the best brands on the market, you’re in the right place. Across the international scene, Lodge and Le Creuset are easily two of the cast iron brands, while Field Company, Barebones, Utopia Kitchen and Smithey offer great alternative options.
If you’re wondering if brand matters for cast iron, then the short answer is yes. The quality can differ greatly – a cheaper skillet will usually have a rough surface, whereas a higher-end brand will have a smoother finish.
Each brand has an array of benefits, depending on your purpose and needs. Whether you want to bake bread, use the barbecue, test out the pizza oven, keep it simple on the stove, or slide it onto the induction cooktop, we can guarantee you we’ve got the goods. Let’s take a look at the best of what’s on offer.
Best Everyday Cast Iron Skillet (Overall):
We understand just how important it is to have a staple in the household, and we believe this is it. Made in the United States, this everyday cast iron skillet comes pre-seasoned and is affordable, good quality and comfortable to use. Weighing in at nearly 2.5kg, this cast-iron pan is a little heavier than its competition. Meat-lovers, pay attention – this is also the best cast iron skillet for cooking steak!
Best Value for Money:
Utopia Kitchen 3-Piece Cast Iron Skillet Set
Housing three different-sized pans, this cute compilation just makes things easier. The Utopia Kitchen 3-Piece Cast Iron Skillet Set is affordable, easy to use, and perfect for those who want to bake, braise or fry the night away. Coming in with 6.5-inch, 8-inch and 9.75-inch pans, this pre-seasoned set is easily the best value for money for any cook who’s budget-conscious.
Best Enameled:
Le Creuset Cast Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
With a wide helper handle, pouring lips and a smaller surface area, this pan is sturdy, oven-safe, and requires no seasoning. Le Creuset Cast Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet is the ideal option for those looking for a hassle-free, enamelled option.
Best for Grilling:
Lodge 10.5-Inch Square Cast Iron Grill Pan
Fit for the stovetop, oven and open fire, this cast-iron skillet is a griller’s dream. With a grooved surface, cooks can achieve those seamless golden grill marks and delightfully crispy results. The pre-seasoned Lodge 10.5-Inch Square Cast Iron Grill Pan is affordable, practical and perfect for any grill-lovers out there.
Best for Frying:
Lodge Cast Iron Covered Deep Skillet
Equipped with deep sides and a perfect-fitting lid, this cast-iron pan is one of the best versatile options on the market. Fit to use over a campfire, oven, and almost anything you please, the Lodge Cast Iron Covered Deep Skillet is ideal for those who love to fry. Thanks to its deep depth, this pre-seasoned skillet can be used to cook with hot oil without the fear of it bubbling over the sides.
Best Design:
Smithey Ironware No.10 Cast Iron Skillet
This aesthetic gem boasts a vintage-inspired design that will sweep any kitchen-lover off their feet. The copper-coloured Smithey Ironware No.10 Cast Iron Skillet is pre-seasoned, well-polished and spans 10 inches. Brimming with sides that are 2 inches deep, this is a great option for those who love to braise and deep-fry.
The Difference between Bare, Seasoned and Enameled Cast Iron Skillets
To spell it out nice and simple, traditional cast iron pans come in two options – bare, or seasoned. A bare skillet means that you’ll have to season the pan yourself. A pre-seasoned skillet allows you to skip the process, but it’s important to note that it won’t be nonstick straight away. It’s up to you if you want to add a layer of seasoning or not.
On the other hand, an enamelled cast iron pan is layered with a porcelain coating and doesn’t need to be seasoned.
What’s the best way to season a cast iron pan?
Start by washing down the skillet with warm, soapy water. After towel-drying it, pour cooking oil over the surface and buff it until it is no longer greasy. Then, place the pan inside the oven and leave it there for around half an hour. Afterwards, remove the pan and repeat the process once again. Continue with this for at least 3 to 4 more times. Voila!
Cast-iron cookware ushers in game-changing, mouth-watering cuisine. With so many options out there, high-quality cast iron skillets can vary greatly according to size, preference and purpose. This carefully curated guide includes the best of the best on the market.