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Best Cast Iron Skillets for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best cast iron skillets for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: February 15th, 2024

🧑‍🍳A good cast iron skillet is more than just a kitchen tool—it's a trusty companion for many a cooking adventure. Known for their incredible heat retention, ruggedness, and flexibility, these skillets can elevate your cooking game whether you're a seasoned chef or just love to cook at home.

We’ve sifted through a ton of reviews and expert opinions to bring you the best cast iron skillets for 2024. Here are our picks, tailored to different needs and preferences.

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Overall Best: Field 10.25" Cast Iron Skillet

Field Company No.8 Cast Iron Skillet, 10 ¼ inches—Smoother, Lighter, Made in USA, Vintage Style, Preseasoned

The Field 10.25" Cast Iron Skillet emerges as our top overall pick. Celebrated for its outstanding heat distribution and a nonstick surface that improves with each use, this skillet is versatile enough for a wide variety of cooking tasks—from baking cornbread to perfectly searing a steak. It's lighter than many traditional cast iron options, making it easier to handle without compromising on durability. This skillet features a smooth cooking surface and an ergonomic handle for comfortable maneuvering. Pre-seasoned and ready to use right out of the box, the Field Skillet strikes an ideal balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern convenience. According to our research, users appreciate its functional design and reliable performance, making it a must-have.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$165.00 at Amazon

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Runner-up: Victoria Signature Series 10-Inch Skillet

The Victoria Signature Series 10-Inch Skillet earns our runner-up spot due to its exceptional heat retention and well-thought-out ergonomic design. Pre-seasoned for immediate use, it offers a naturally nonstick surface that makes cooking and cleanup a breeze. Its balanced weight, coupled with a large handle, ensures easy handling and maneuverability. The smooth cooking surface enables even cooking, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. Users often praise its durable construction and high-quality performance, noting that it offers excellent value for its price.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$165.00 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Lodge 10.25-Inch Classic Cast Iron Skillet

Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

For those seeking an affordable option, the Lodge 10.25-Inch Classic Cast Iron Skillet is a superb choice that doesn’t skimp on quality. Known for impressive heat retention and durability, this skillet is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, providing a naturally nonstick cooking surface from the get-go. Its versatility stands out; you can use it on stovetops, in ovens, or even over a campfire, making it an indispensable tool in your kitchen arsenal. According to our research, many users commend its reliable performance and value, highlighting its ability to handle a variety of cooking tasks effortlessly.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$19.90 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet pre-seasoned?

Yep, the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet comes pre-seasoned. According to the manufacturer's description, this means it's good to go straight out of the box. The pre-seasoning coats the skillet with a layer of baked-on oil, making it naturally non-stick and helping to ward off rust. Besides that, it's oven safe up to 500°F, which makes it pretty versatile. Many folks appreciate how easy it is to switch from stovetop to oven, especially for dishes that need a good sear before roasting or baking. Our research also points out its great heat retention and distribution. This is handy for slow-cooking or dishes that require steady heat, whether on the stove or in the oven. It's often praised for how well it holds heat, which is perfect for searing meats or baking breads. Just a heads-up, the whole skillet, handle included, can get really hot during use, especially in the oven. So, remember to use oven mitts or a towel to avoid burns. Many people find the pre-seasoned layer works well for daily cooking, but some suggest adding extra seasoning over time to boost its non-stick properties. It's a simple process that can enhance the pan's performance and lifespan. Overall, the Lodge skillet is a hit with home cooks who love the durability and performance of cast iron. It's a solid piece that's earned its spot in many kitchens. If you’re after a dependable and versatile skillet, this one’s certainly a good option to look into.

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How do you clean and maintain a Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet?

Taking care of your Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is pretty straightforward. It already comes pre-seasoned, so you can start cooking right out of the box. But if you want to boost its non-stick surface, especially for cooking delicate foods like eggs, you might want to give it an extra seasoning. **Extra Seasoning:** If you're thinking about adding some extra seasoning, our research shows it can really enhance the skillet's non-stick capabilities. Just apply a very thin coat of cooking oil, like vegetable or canola, over the entire skillet. Then place it upside down in the oven at about 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour. Throw some foil underneath to catch any drips. Doing this every so often can keep your skillet in top shape. **Cleaning and Maintenance:** For cleaning, try to skip the soap since it can remove the seasoning. Warm water and a brush or sponge usually do the trick. If you've got any stubborn bits stuck on, soak the skillet with hot water for a few minutes and then give it another scrub. After washing, make sure it's completely dry since moisture can cause rust. Once dry, rub it down with a light coat of oil to keep it protected and ready for next time. **Ongoing Care:** Maintaining your skillet is mostly about keeping it dry and lightly oiled. Storing it in a dry spot is ideal and keeps it away from moisture. Following these steps can help it stay in great condition, becoming a trusty part of your kitchen for years. Basically, a bit of regular care means your Lodge skillet will keep helping you make delicious meals far into the future. It's more like a long-term relationship with the skillet, which is a huge part of the charm with cast iron!

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How do you season a Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet?

Seasoning your Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet really helps with its cooking performance and durability. Even though it comes pre-seasoned, keeping that seasoning in good shape prevents rust and keeps the surface non-stick. **1. Washing Your Skillet:** Stick to hand washing with your Lodge skillet. Dishwashers aren't cast iron's best friend—they can strip away the seasoning. So, use hot water and maybe a bit of mild soap if you need it. Just rinse it well. You should be gentle here, though, so skip anything too abrasive that could scratch things up. **2. Drying Thoroughly:** Once it's washed, make sure it's totally dry. Moisture and cast iron do not mix well, as it can lead to rust. Go ahead and towel dry it, and just to be safe, you can pop it on a stove burner on low heat for a few minutes to get rid of any leftover water. **3. Maintaining Seasoning:** With your skillet still warm, rub a thin layer of oil all over it each time you wash it. [Flaxseed oil](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dflaxseed%2Boil%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is often recommended because it polymerizes (fancy word for bonding well), but you can also use [vegetable oil](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dvegetable%2Boil%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [canola oil](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcanola%2Boil%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Just make sure to wipe off any excess. This simple step maintains the seasoning and adds a small barrier against rust. **4. Reseasoning Your Skillet:** Sometimes, even though it's pre-seasoned, you'll want to give it a little extra seasoning boost. Spread a thin coat of oil over the whole skillet and bake it upside down in a 375°F (190°C) oven for around an hour. Once done, let it cool in the oven. This helps the oil bond with the skillet, improving its surface. According to our research, following these steps for regular care and occasional reseasoning will keep your Lodge skillet in great shape! It should give you excellent cooking results and be a reliable tool in your kitchen for years.

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Best Lightweight: Stargazer 10.5-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

If you're concerned about the weight of traditional cast iron, the Stargazer 10.5-Inch Cast Iron Skillet is your best bet. Weighing just 5.2 pounds, it offers ease of handling without sacrificing performance. The skillet heats evenly and retains heat well, ensuring a dependable nonstick surface after seasoning. Its ergonomic handle design ensures comfortable use, making it ideal for those who may find standard cast iron skillets too cumbersome. Users appreciate its thoughtful design and lighter weight, which make cooking with it a more pleasant experience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$135.00 at Amazon

Best Enameled: Le Creuset 10" Signature Skillet

Le Creuset LS2024-2667 Signature Iron Handle Skillet, 10-1/4-Inch, Cerise

For those who desire a touch of luxury and color in their kitchen, the Le Creuset 10" Signature Skillet is the best enameled option. Not only does it look stunning, but it also performs exceptionally well with even heat distribution and a nonstick enamel surface. Ideal for searing, frying, and baking, this skillet is easy to clean and maintain. While it's a bit pricier, the investment is justified by its robust build and aesthetic appeal. Users frequently highlight its beauty and functionality, making it a beloved addition to many kitchens.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$188.00 at Amazon

Best for Outdoor Cooking: Camp Chef 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

Camp Chef 12" Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

Outdoor enthusiasts will find the Camp Chef 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet to be an excellent choice for cooking over an open flame. Its sturdy construction and reliability make it perfect for outdoor cooking scenarios. With a large size that accommodates big portions, it’s ideal for group camping trips. This skillet comes pre-seasoned, ensuring excellent heat distribution and even cooking. According to our research, users appreciate its robustness and capacity, making it a go-to for campfire cooking adventures.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$24.99 at Amazon

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