10 Best cast iron pan sets 2025 in the United States

The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set is an excellent choice for beginners, home cooks, and professional chefs alike. The set includes three skillets in varying sizes: 8 inches, 10.25 inches, and 12 inches, offering versatility for different cooking needs. All pans come pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, which means they are ready to use right out of the box and will only improve with use. This natural seasoning provides a non-stick surface and helps to prevent rust.

Be aware that occasional spots may appear as what looks like rust, but these can be easily remedied with proper care. The skillets are a bit heavy, with a total weight of 17.35 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users to handle frequently. The cast iron material ensures excellent heat retention and even cooking, although it does take a bit longer to heat up initially. These pans are compatible with gas stoves and can be used for frying, sautéing, baking, and even oven cooking.

Maintenance requires hand washing and occasional re-seasoning to keep the non-stick surface intact. The Lodge family has been producing high-quality cast iron cookware in the USA since 1896, ensuring a reliable and durable product. Though not dishwasher safe, the robust construction and multi-use capabilities make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Just remember, with great cookware comes the need for good care.

The Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is a solid choice for anyone needing a versatile, durable pan that suits many cooking styles. It comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, offering a non-stick surface without synthetic chemicals, which improves with regular use. The size is practical for most everyday cooking tasks, from frying to baking, and it holds heat well for even cooking on stovetops, ovens, grills, and campfires.

Despite its reputation for heaviness, this skillet feels manageable thanks to the ergonomic assist handle and a red silicone hot handle holder, which improves grip and safety when handling hot pans. Made in the USA by a trusted family-owned brand, it assures quality and longevity. However, the pan is quite heavy compared to other cookware, which might be challenging for some users, and it requires careful hand washing as it is not dishwasher safe.

Also, since it's a single pan, those looking for multiple sizes or a full set will need to buy additional pieces separately. While it works with induction and smooth surfaces, the weight and maintenance demands mean it’s best suited for users comfortable with traditional cast iron care. This skillet combines classic cast iron durability and performance with thoughtful features that make it approachable for everyday cooking.