Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best rated cast iron cookware! If you’re looking to elevate your cooking game with durable, versatile, and naturally non-stick (with proper care) kitchen essentials, cast iron is an excellent choice. This timeless cookware is celebrated for its incredible heat retention and even cooking, making it perfect for everything from searing steaks to baking cornbread. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? We’ve done the research for you, diving deep into customer reviews, expert opinions, and product specifications to bring you a list of top performers. Get ready to discover your next favorite pan!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Rated Cast Iron Cookware Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set with 8, 10.25, and 12 Inch Skillets
This Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to embrace the world of cast iron cookware. With three essential sizes – 8-inch, 10.25-inch, and 12-inch – you’re equipped for nearly any cooking task. Being pre-seasoned, these skillets are ready to use right out of the box, offering a naturally non-stick surface that improves with every meal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PFAS-Free & Non-Toxic: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your cookware is free from harmful chemicals like PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE.
- ✓ Factory Pre-Seasoned: Each pan comes pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, providing an initial easy-release finish.
- ✓ Versatile Sizing: Includes 8″, 10.25″, and 12″ skillets, covering a wide range of cooking needs from single servings to family meals.
- ✓ Made in the USA: Proudly crafted in America, upholding Lodge’s legacy of quality and durability.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Lodge set because it offers incredible value and versatility. It’s an excellent investment for both beginners and seasoned cooks who appreciate reliable, chemical-free cookware. The various sizes ensure you always have the right pan for the job, and Lodge’s reputation for quality means these skillets will last for generations.
Best For
This set is ideal for home cooks looking for a comprehensive, durable, and naturally non-stick solution for everyday cooking, baking, searing, and frying.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comes with three essential skillet sizes for diverse cooking.
- Pre-seasoned, making them ready to use immediately.
- Free from PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE for healthy cooking.
- Excellent heat retention and even cooking results.
Cons:
- Requires regular seasoning and specific cleaning for maintenance.
- Can be heavy, especially the larger skillets.
- Initial factory seasoning might need additional layers for optimal non-stick performance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Sorry for the long review – for the short review, count the stars!I’m a bit of a purist. I always season my cast iron – new, or used (hey, I don’t know WHAT someone else used that old piece of cast iron for – maybe cleaning auto parts). I sand it down to bare metal, starting with about an 80 grit an”
Customer Review: “If you haven’t already taken the leap into cast iron you should think about it. First off the pan is cheap, durable and generally non-stick. Does this mean nothing will stick to this pan? No but if you have the right temperature and use the right amount of fat/oil when cooking and take care of th”
2. Stargazer 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, a Seasoned Frying Pan with Smooth Cooking Surface
The Stargazer 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet stands out for its meticulous craftsmanship and incredibly smooth cooking surface. This is not your average cast iron pan; it’s designed with modern culinary needs in mind while retaining the classic benefits of cast iron cookware. If you value a premium experience and a pan that truly delivers on its promise of a superior cooking surface, this skillet is a fantastic option.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Superior Smooth Cooking Surface: The flawlessly machined surface significantly reduces food sticking, offering a near non-stick experience.
- ✓ Individually Crafted in the USA: Each skillet is a testament to quality, being American-made and preseasoned with meticulous care.
- ✓ Modern Design: Features flared rims for easy pouring and an ergonomic, longer handle for comfortable grip and balance.
- ✓ Exceptional Heat Retention: Provides even heat distribution for consistent and perfect cooking results across the entire pan.
Why We Recommend It
We chose the Stargazer skillet as an Editor’s Choice for its commitment to a truly smooth cooking surface, which addresses a common pain point with traditional cast iron. Its thoughtful design and American craftsmanship make it a joy to cook with and a worthy investment for those seeking high-performance cast iron cookware.
Best For
This skillet is best for home chefs who appreciate premium quality, an exceptionally smooth cooking surface, and an ergonomic design for versatile cooking tasks like searing, frying, and sautéing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstandingly smooth cooking surface minimizes sticking.
- Ergonomic handle and flared rims enhance usability.
- Premium craftsmanship and American made.
- Excellent heat retention and even heat distribution.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to entry-level cast iron.
- Still requires careful seasoning and maintenance, like all cast iron.
- The longer handle might make storage slightly more challenging in smaller spaces.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Welp. What would you like to know about an expensive cast iron pan? How about weight? Cast iron is heavy. Even this pan takes two hands to pour liquid out. The handles work very well for that. I love the finish on the inside of the pan. It is just as good as the finish of an 80 year old pan that bel”
Customer Review: “The Stargazer cast iron skilled was just what I needed. I had already had an ancient cast iron skillet well seasoned from years of use and smooth on the surface, but it was a 13 inch, very heavy and larger than I needed for cooking a couple of eggs. My husband used it first, without oil (are you kid”
Customer Review: “Welp. What would you like to know about an expensive cast iron pan? How about weight? Cast iron is heavy. Even this pan takes two hands to pour liquid out. The handles work very well for that. I love the finish on the inside of the pan. It is just as good as the finish of an 80 year old pan that bel”
Customer Review: “The Stargazer cast iron skilled was just what I needed. I had already had an ancient cast iron skillet well seasoned from years of use and smooth on the surface, but it was a 13 inch, very heavy and larger than I needed for cooking a couple of eggs. My husband used it first, without oil (are you kid”
3. Lodge 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles
The Lodge 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Dual Assist Handles is a true workhorse, offering exceptional performance at an unbeatable price. This pan embodies everything people love about cast iron cookware: durability, versatility, and excellent heat properties. The addition of dual assist handles makes it significantly easier to manage, especially when full and heavy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual Assist Handles: Makes lifting and moving the heavy skillet much easier and safer, particularly when transferring from stovetop to oven.
- ✓ Pre-Seasoned Surface: Arrives seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, ready for immediate use and developing a better non-stick surface over time.
- ✓ Versatile Use: Suitable for use on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or over a campfire, making it incredibly flexible for various cooking methods.
- ✓ Lodge Quality: A trusted American brand known for its robust and reliable cast iron products.
Why We Recommend It
This Lodge skillet is our top budget pick because it delivers outstanding performance without breaking the bank. The dual assist handles are a game-changer for ergonomics, making this heavy-duty pan more manageable for everyday use. It’s a testament to why Lodge remains a leader in best rated cast iron cookware.
Best For
This skillet is ideal for anyone looking for a reliable, large-capacity cast iron pan for family meals, especially those who appreciate the added convenience of assist handles for easier handling and oven use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Dual assist handles significantly improve handling and portability.
- Excellent value for its size and quality.
- Extremely durable and versatile across all cooking surfaces.
- Pre-seasoned for convenience and develops better seasoning with use.
Cons:
- Heavy, even with assist handles, which might be a concern for some users.
- Requires consistent care and seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties.
- The initial factory seasoning may not be perfectly smooth.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Another excellent pan to add to my Lodge collection. I have had other cast iron pots and pans and I gave them all away once my mom gave me my first Lodge frying pan for Christmas. This pan is utilitarian since you can use it to fry on the stovetop, broil and bake in the oven, roast in the bbq or ove”
Customer Review: “I seriously don’t know how I ever cooked without this cast iron pan in my life! First of all, the dual handle design is wonderful—no more awkward wrist twisting trying to list a heavy skillet with one hand. The balance is perfect, and it makes transferring from stovetop to over so much easier and sa”
4. Lodge 10.25-inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, US-Made
The Lodge 10.25-inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is arguably the most essential piece of cast iron cookware for any kitchen. Its versatile size makes it perfect for everyday cooking, whether you’re frying eggs, searing a chicken breast, or baking a skillet cookie. Like all Lodge products, it’s proudly US-made and built to last, providing exceptional performance for years to come.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Optimal 10.25-Inch Size: A highly versatile size, ideal for cooking meals for 1-3 people and fitting comfortably on most stovetop burners.
- ✓ PFAS-Free & Non-Toxic: Made without PFOA and PTFE, ensuring safe and healthy cooking with just iron and oil.
- ✓ Pre-Seasoned with Natural Oil: Comes ready to use with a foundational layer of seasoning that naturally improves with each use.
- ✓ Multi-Cooktop Compatibility: Designed for use on all cooking surfaces, including oven, stovetop, grill, and even campfires.
Why We Recommend It
This 10.25-inch skillet is a must-have for its perfect balance of size, versatility, and robust construction. It’s the ideal entry point for anyone new to cast iron or a reliable addition for experienced cooks. Its ability to go from stovetop to oven makes it a truly indispensable piece of cast iron cookware.
Best For
This skillet is perfect for daily cooking tasks, single servings, or small family meals, offering versatility across all cooking methods and environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly versatile and practical size for most cooking needs.
- Durable construction ensures a lifetime of use.
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use and develops a rich patina over time.
- Safe, chemical-free cooking experience.
Cons:
- Can be heavy for some, especially when full.
- Requires careful cleaning and re-seasoning to prevent rust.
- Handle can get hot, requiring a potholder or handle cover.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Sorry for the long review – for the short review, count the stars!I’m a bit of a purist. I always season my cast iron – new, or used (hey, I don’t know WHAT someone else used that old piece of cast iron for – maybe cleaning auto parts). I sand it down to bare metal, starting with about an 80 grit an”
Customer Review: “If you haven’t already taken the leap into cast iron you should think about it. First off the pan is cheap, durable and generally non-stick. Does this mean nothing will stick to this pan? No but if you have the right temperature and use the right amount of fat/oil when cooking and take care of th”
5. Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Dual Handles
For those who love to cook for a crowd, the Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is a game-changer. This generously sized skillet, complete with dual assist handles, is perfect for large family meals, entertaining, or even campfire cooking. Its robust construction and excellent heat retention ensure that even large quantities of food cook evenly and deliciously, cementing its place among the best rated cast iron cookware for big jobs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 17-Inch Diameter: Ample cooking surface for large batches, whole chickens, or multiple dishes at once.
- ✓ Dual Assist Handles: Crucial for safely lifting and maneuvering such a large and heavy piece of cookware.
- ✓ Pre-Seasoned: Comes factory-seasoned, providing an initial non-stick surface that improves with consistent use.
- ✓ Extreme Versatility: Suitable for all heat sources, including oven, grill, stovetop, and outdoor campfires.
Why We Recommend It
This Lodge 17-inch skillet is recommended for its exceptional capacity and sturdy design, which makes large-scale cooking much more manageable. The dual handles are a thoughtful and necessary feature for a pan of this size, ensuring ease of use despite its weight. It truly embodies the utility and longevity that cast iron is known for.
Best For
This large skillet is best for families, entertaining guests, outdoor cooking enthusiasts, or anyone who regularly cooks large quantities of food and needs a durable, spacious pan.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Huge cooking surface accommodates large meals effortlessly.
- Dual assist handles make handling significantly easier.
- Incredibly durable, built to withstand heavy use for decades.
- Excellent heat retention, ideal for even cooking of large items.
Cons:
- Very heavy, requiring two hands even with assist handles.
- Might be too large for smaller stovetops or ovens.
- Takes longer to heat up due to its size and mass.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Not too long ago, my wife and I had been discussing replacing our most used aluminum, Teflon coated skillet. The Teflon was chipping off, and my wife and I didn’t think that was very healthy. We have a Lodge 12” cast iron skillet, but we needed something bigger since we were used to the size of our “
Customer Review: “This skillet is ginormous! I bought this as part of a christmas gift set for my wife. we have a large family and we cook for everyone. this pan is now our go to for family meals. i like to brown meat for sauces and then deglaze the pan with the sauce.the seasoning/coating is the basic lodge season”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Rated Cast Iron Cookware
Choosing the perfect piece of cast iron cookware can feel like a big decision, especially since these pans are made to last a lifetime. This buying guide aims to help you understand what makes cast iron so special and what to look for when making your selection, ensuring you find the best fit for your culinary adventures.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating the best rated cast iron cookware, we focus on several key aspects to ensure you get the most value and performance:
- Seasoning Quality: A good factory seasoning provides a head start on a naturally non-stick surface. While all cast iron benefits from continued seasoning, a well-done initial layer is crucial.
- Smoothness of Cooking Surface: While traditional cast iron can be rough, some premium brands offer smoother, machined surfaces that can enhance the non-stick experience and ease of cleaning.
- Size and Weight: Consider what you’ll be cooking most often. A 10-12 inch skillet is versatile for most homes, but larger families or specialty cooks might need bigger options. Remember, cast iron is heavy, so consider your comfort level.
- Handle Design: Traditional long handles are common, but assist handles (small loops on the opposite side) are incredibly useful for lifting heavier pans, especially when transferring them from stovetop to oven.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands like Lodge have decades of experience and a loyal following for a reason – they consistently produce durable, reliable products.
- Versatility: The ability to use the cookware on various heat sources (stovetop, oven, grill, campfire) adds significant value and flexibility to your cooking.
- Material Safety: Ensuring the cookware is free from harmful chemicals like PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE is essential for healthy cooking.
Budget Planning
Investing in cast iron cookware doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find excellent quality pieces at various price points. Entry-level options from reputable brands like Lodge offer fantastic durability and performance for their cost. Higher-end options, like Stargazer, might come with a steeper price but often feature refined designs, smoother finishes, and enhanced ergonomics. Consider your cooking frequency and specific needs. A single, versatile skillet can be a great starting point, and you can always add more pieces to your collection over time.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of cast iron cookware lies in its simplicity and longevity. With proper care, a good cast iron pan will become a treasured heirloom, improving with every meal. By considering the factors above, you can confidently choose a piece that not only meets your cooking needs but also brings joy to your kitchen for years to come. Don’t be intimidated by the care; it’s simpler than you think and incredibly rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I properly season my cast iron cookware?
A: Seasoning is essentially baking thin layers of oil onto the surface of your cast iron, which creates a natural, non-stick coating. To season, clean your pan thoroughly, dry it completely, apply a very thin layer of high smoke point oil (like flaxseed, grapeseed, or vegetable oil) to all surfaces, and then bake it upside down in an oven at 450-500°F (232-260°C) for an hour. Let it cool slowly in the oven. Repeat this process a few times for best results, and the seasoning will build up naturally with regular cooking.
Q: How should I clean my cast iron skillet?
A: After each use, scrape off any food residue with a spatula or plastic scraper. For stuck-on bits, use coarse salt and a little hot water to scrub, forming a paste. Rinse thoroughly with hot water (avoiding soap if possible, or using a very mild amount if necessary, then rinse quickly). Immediately dry your pan completely with a towel or by placing it over low heat on the stovetop. Once dry, apply a very thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface to protect the seasoning.
Q: Is cast iron cookware truly non-stick?
A: Yes, with consistent use and proper seasoning, cast iron cookware develops a natural non-stick surface that can rival or even surpass synthetic coatings. It’s important to remember that this non-stick property improves over time as layers of seasoning build up. Cooking with adequate fat and maintaining your pan are key to achieving and preserving its non-stick qualities.
Q: Can I use cast iron on all types of stovetops?
A: Yes, one of the great advantages of cast iron cookware is its versatility. It can be used on electric, gas, induction, and ceramic stovetops, as well as in the oven, on the grill, and over open campfires. However, be cautious when using it on glass-top or ceramic stoves, as its weight and rough bottom can scratch the surface if dragged. Always lift rather than slide.
Q: What is the main difference between bare cast iron and enameled cast iron?
A: Bare cast iron, like the products reviewed here, requires seasoning and careful maintenance to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties. It excels at high-heat searing and develops a unique patina. Enameled cast iron, on the other hand, is coated with a glassy enamel finish, which makes it non-reactive (safe for acidic foods), easier to clean (often dishwasher safe), and requires no seasoning. However, enameled cast iron can be more expensive, can chip if dropped, and doesn’t develop the same natural non-stick characteristics as well-seasoned bare cast iron.
There you have it – our top picks for the best rated cast iron cookware! We hope this detailed roundup and buying guide helps you find the perfect pan to bring the joy of cast iron cooking into your home. Each of these skillets offers a unique blend of durability, performance, and versatility, promising delicious meals for years to come. Remember, the best cast iron is the one you use often and care for well. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and start cooking up some amazing memories today!
