10 Best Cast Iron Skillets 2026 in the United States

The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set is an excellent choice for anyone from beginners to experienced cooks looking to enhance their kitchen experience. This set comes with three skillets of varying sizes (8-inch, 10.25-inch, and 12-inch), making it versatile for a variety of dishes, whether sautéing, frying, or baking. One of its standout features is the pre-seasoning with 100% natural vegetable oil, which promotes a natural non-stick surface and helps protect against rust. Many users appreciate that the seasoning improves with use, making the skillets better over time.

The cast iron construction provides exceptional heat retention, allowing for even cooking across the cooking surface. However, it does take a while to heat up initially, requiring users to be patient. The skillets are also heavy, with a total weight of 17.35 pounds. While this contributes to their durability, it might be cumbersome for some people to handle, especially when shifting or cleaning them.

One thing to note is that the skillets are not dishwasher safe; they require hand washing, which may be a drawback for those who prefer low-maintenance cookware. Additionally, the handle design may not be ideal for everyone as it can get hot during cooking, so using mitts is essential. Despite some minor drawbacks, the Lodge skillet set is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to explore cooking with cast iron. The family-owned company's long-standing reputation also adds a reassuring touch for buyers looking for quality cookware.

The Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is a large, heavy-duty pan weighing about 12.4 pounds with dimensions of 22.2 by 15 by 2.9 inches, making it suitable for big meals or cooking multiple ingredients at once. It comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, so it has a built-in non-stick surface that improves over time, which helps with easy cooking and cleaning without the need for synthetic coatings. The handle is made of iron and designed in a teardrop shape, providing a solid grip but keep in mind it can get hot during cooking, so using a mitt is recommended. While the skillet does not have special pour spouts, its round shape allows for easy maneuvering when pouring liquids or sauces.

The cooking surface heats evenly and retains heat well, which is great for searing, frying, baking, or even using over a campfire, ovens, grills, or various stovetops, including induction. Because it’s heavy and requires hand washing, it might not be the best choice if you prefer lightweight, dishwasher-safe pans. Rust can appear if not dried properly, but it’s easy to fix by reseasoning.

This skillet is made in the USA by a trusted family-owned company, offering durability that can last for generations. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for versatile, chemical-free cookware that handles many cooking styles but be ready to care for it with regular seasoning and careful cleaning.

The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder is a sturdy and versatile cooking tool that's well-suited for a variety of cooking methods. At 12 inches in diameter, it offers a generous cooking surface, making it ideal for both small and large meals. The skillet comes pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, which helps to prevent food from sticking and enhances flavor over time.

Users have praised its excellent heat retention and even heating, which are crucial for achieving great cooking results. The assist handle provides better control, and the silicone handle holder protects hands from heat up to 500°F, though it is essential to remember that the skillet itself is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing.

One downside is its weight—cast iron skillets are inherently heavy, and this one is no exception, making it less suitable for those who may struggle with heavy cookware. Additionally, while the skillet offers a high level of cooking versatility, it lacks pour spouts, which could make draining liquids a bit challenging. Its compatibility with various heat sources, including induction cooktops, ovens, grills, and campfires, adds to its broad appeal. The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a long-lasting investment for those who enjoy traditional cooking with reliable results.