The Best Iron Pan: Highly Recommended Of 2024
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Deep Skillet with Iron Cover and Assist Handle
With its cast iron cover, self-basting tips, and sturdy assist handle, this Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Skillet is perfect for searing, baking, broiling, braising or frying. The sturdy lid locks in heat while the pre-seasoned interior resists sticking. This versatile pan can be used on the stove top in your oven or on a campfire over the fire. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron Frying Pan
Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet is perfect for cooking large meals and appetizers. This 12-inch pan features a perfectly textured preseasoned skin, allowing it to release food easily, while our signature long curved handle makes it easy to grip while cooking. The pan is also perfect for preparing sauces and other creations without the mess. Read Review
3. Best Capacity: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle Skillet
The Le Creuset Signature Iron Skillet is the perfect addition to your kitchen. This versatile piece of cookware offers a wide range of uses from searing steaks and caramelizing onions, to making a healthy breakfast hash. The enameled cast iron provides superior heat distribution and retention, while the heat-safe black satin interior enamel is specially formulated for higher surface temperatures to enhance cooking performance. Read Review
4. Best Adjustable: Legend Cookware | Cast Iron Skillet with Lid | Large 12” Frying Pan
Cast iron cookware has been a staple in kitchens across the world for centuries. Legend Cookware is made from premium materials and is designed to be used in all types of cooking, including oven-to-table dinner recipes and frying. The handle is extra long to make it easier for you to lift the skillet and slide it into the oven or cooktop. Read Review
It can be difficult to find the best pan for your kitchen. You want something that will last and be able to take whatever you throw at it. There are so many different types of pans out there, and it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which one is right for you.
The good news is there are only a few key things you need to consider when shopping for an iron pan. These include material, size, weight, how easy they are to clean, and how much they cost. Let’s look at some of the most important things you need to know when buying an iron pan.
However, after investing in 17 hours, we've come up with a name that's worthy of your requirement: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Deep Skillet with Iron Cover and Assist Handle. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one, Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron Frying Pan. It could better suit your needs.
RELATED: We did the research for you. With our tests and trials, here are accurate descriptions of the best cast iron pots and pans available in the market.
Our Top Picks
- Great for induction cooktops
- Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- One Lodge Pre-Seasoned 5 Quart Cast Iron Deep Skillet
- Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
- Use in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire
- Use to sear, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill
- Assist handle for better control
- Cast iron cover features self-basting tips
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F
- Lightest weight cast iron by quart on the market
- Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
- Safe for dishwasher and metal utensils
- Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
- Black satin interior enamel is specially formulated for higher surface temperatures to enhance cooking performance
- Ready to use, requires no seasoning
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- Use with confidence on all cooking surfaces: gas, electric, induction, oven, broiler, grill and even the fire pit.
- Your skillet can rust so keep it out of the dishwasher, do not soak and dry immediately after cleaning. Use warm water, scrape any stuck bits with a spoon, a little elbow grease with a rag and finish with a paper towel. Lightly polish with a stainless steel chainmail scrubber for a smooth patina.
- Cast iron has superior heat retention for even cooking, restaurant quality searing and comes pre-seasoned for teflon like non-stick cooking surface when used with a thin layer of oil. Ready to use out of the box! Our 12” pan has a few measurements you should know: The pan measures 17.75 x 12.00 x 2.25 inches
- Compare to LODGE CAST IRON AMERICAN MADE SINCE 1896 and Utopia Kitchen. Support small business and save!
- Proudly designed in the USA, pre-seasoned with our proprietary oil blend, cast from the finest virgin ore and built to last for generations to come.
- 【Detachable & Anti-scalding Wooden Handle】The wood handle is detachable with no tools required, convenient for oven use and easy storage. The hanging ring on handle is designed for hanging storage, easy to dry, saving kitchen space.The wooden handle is in line with the human body, engineered solid wood anti-scalding design keeps cool feeling when cooking at high temperature,safe and comfortable to use.
- 【Multi-purpose & Suitable for All Heat Sources】This 12.5 inch nonstick frying pan is multifuntional,you can use it to cook delicious stir-fry, steaming, roasting, boiling, baking meals and more.The uniform heat flat bottom allows it to be placed evenly over heat source and suitable for using on all stove such as electric, induction, gas and ceramic stoves etc.
- 【Standable Glass Lid & Wooden Spatula Includes】The stand-free glass lid is heat and shatter resistant which prevents splatters, seals in the flavor and nutrients for a healthier and better tasting food. And the wood spatula is burnished and covered at least three times, have incredibly sleek surface and superb handhold feeling.
- 【Healthy & Safe Iron Wok 】Aneder wok is made of carbon steel, heats up evenly and quickly ,safe and durable .Also it is with safe non-stick coating to make sure the wok non-stick&rustproof.12.5 inch is more large than regular cooking pan perfect for large families using.
- 【100% Satisfaction Service】Aneder Iron Wok enjoys 45 days money back and lifetime technical support. Purchase with worry free! If you have any problem with the product, please contact us freely.
- Your black skillet can rust so keep it out of the dishwasher, do not soak and dry immediately after cleaning. Use warm water, scrape any stuck bits with a spoon, a little elbow grease with a rag and finish with a paper towel. Lightly polish with a stainless steel chainmail scrubber for a smooth patina.
- Proudly designed in the USA, pre-seasoned with our proprietary oil blend, cast from the finest virgin ore and built to last for generations to come.
- Cast iron has superior heat retention for even cooking, restaurant quality searing and comes pre-seasoned for teflon like non-stick cooking surface when used with a thin layer of oil. Ready to use out of the box! Deep ribbed adds authentic bbq grilled flavor to meats while creating the perfect cast-iron sear! Easily drains grease while elevated grilling for steak, bacon and all cuts of meat.
- Compare to LODGE CAST IRON AMERICAN MADE SINCE 1896 and Utopia Kitchen. Support small business and save! Perfect match for any stove, stovetop, baking, indoor, outdoor, grilling, as a panini press, griddle, outside over a campfire, or at home for top griller lines.
- Our 10” square pan has a few measurements you should know: The pan measures 16.00 x 10.25 x 2 inches. Use with confidence on all cooking surfaces: gas, electric, induction, oven, broiler, grill and even the fire pit.
- Smooth cast iron skillets are perfect for browning/braising meats, meals and gravies alike, with superior heat distribution. Compare with Le Creuset, Staub, Smithey, Field, Finex, and Stargazer skillets and pans.
- Wasatch pans are quadruple seasoned with vegetable and grape seed oil, giving it that signature bronze coloring.
- Our cast iron smooth bottom is also versatile in regards to heating methods! Our smooth cast iron skillet is compatible with stovetops (electric, conduction or gas), the oven, even campfires for the outdoorsman. It will retain heat consistently with any of these!
- Backcountry Iron is back with a new cookware heirloom in the making—a line of smooth cast iron skillets! Taking inspiration from the classic hand me downs of old like the legendary smooth cast iron pans made by Wagner and Griswold, the Wasatch cast iron line seeks to recapture their former glory in the modern day. Smoothed sides and bottoms and a timeless design, all molded from quality, ethically sourced cast iron
- Smooth cast iron provides a more uniform cooking surface, which holds an excellent seasoning, easy release properties keep food from sticking, and creates an better sear and exceptional browning, similar to enameled cast iron. Optimize your steak cooking, whip up some excellent scallops, all while keeping the same capabilities of our previous line!
- 5. 8 QT CAPACITY: The Cast Iron Cooking Wok has 5. 8 quart capacity w/ wide diameter for large meals. Used in various Chinese cooking techniques like stir frying, steaming, pan frying, deep frying, poaching, boiling, braising, searing, stewing & more
- NON-STICK COATING: The long lasting & heavy duty cast iron wok features a non-stick coated layer surface that ensures quick, effortless food release and eliminates the need for butter, oil or cooking spray. Makes tasty homemade food slide out easily
- PRE-SEASONED: The classic stir fry cooking wok comes pre-seasoned to prevent the cookware from rusting while it sits on store shelves or in the warehouse. Also prevents food from sticking to the cookware, ideal for cooking meat, pasta & vegetables
- INDUCTION READY: This cast iron wok with lid are compatible w/ all heating methods. Works on gas, induction, glass ceramic & electric stove top. It is stain-resistant & easy to clean. Enjoy traditional chinese wok cooking style with the whole family
- WOODEN LID COVER: Includes a wooden lid & silicone oven grab mitt. The cast iron chinese wok effectively distributes & retains heat for even cooking. It is heat-safe at high temperatures up to 480°F. Total wok size measures 17. 09”L x 11. 46”W x 1. 81”H
What to Look For in a best iron pan?
The best iron pan is assessed based on many factors. best iron pan research varies depending on the type, feature, and quality of this product. It is not too complex to cover, yet we will give you some buying guide and solutions to these problems.
Please take a closer look at best iron pan characteristics below would be beneficial for you. Let’s look through and keep in mind:
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.
Ease Of Use
Size
Cleaning
Heat Distribution
RELATED: Find the best 14 inch nonstick skillet for your kitchen! We review the top 10 nonstick skillets and provide a helpful buyer's guide to help you make the right purchase.
FAQs
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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