The Best Cast-Iron Skillets

February 29, 2024
Updated:
February 29, 2024
The Best Cast-Iron Skillets
(Left) Lodge Cast-Iron Skillet (Right) Le Creuset Cast-Iron Skillet (Illustration by The Epoch Times, Amazon)
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Have you ever wondered why cast-iron skillets are so popular among chefs and home cooks? What makes them different from other pans, and how can you choose the best one for your kitchen?
Cast-iron skillets are more than just cooking utensils. Whether you want to sear a steak, bake a cornbread, or fry an egg, a cast-iron skillet can handle it all with ease and style. 
Cast-iron skillets require proper care to prevent rusting, sticking, or cracking. In this article, we will answer your questions and tips and tricks for using and caring for them.
What makes a cast-iron skillet the best choice for your cooking needs? Whether you want to bake, fry, roast, or grill, a cast-iron skillet can handle everything.
It also retains and distributes heat evenly, giving you perfect results every time. But many brands and models of cast-iron skillets exist. Among them, one stands out: Lodge cast-iron skillet.
Lodge cast-iron skillet is the product of over a century of experience and innovation. Lodge is the longest-running cast iron manufacturer in the United States. Joseph Lodge founded it in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, in 1896.
Lodge is still owned and managed by the descendants of the Lodge family. It continues to make high-quality cast iron cookware in its original foundry.
The Lodge cast-iron skillet comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil. It creates a nonstick surface that gets better with use.
It is available in different sizes and shapes, from 3.5 to 15 inches and round to square. You can also choose classic, chef collection, or heat-treated cast iron skillets. The choice depends on your preference.
Lodge cast-iron skillet is not only a great cookware but also a great investment. It is affordable, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly.
Pros:
  • This cast iron skillet is durable, versatile, and affordable. You can use it on any heat source, from stovetop to oven, grill to campfire.
  • It is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. This makes a nonstick surface that gets better with use.
  • This cast iron skillet is made in the USA. They have done so since 1896. The skillets have a lifetime guarantee and a reputation for quality.
Cons:
  • It is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to handle and store.
  • You need to season and maintain Lodge cast iron skillets. This prevents rust and sticking.
  • It can react with acidic foods, altering the flavor and color of the dishes.
$39.95 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet

Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet
Victoria cast-iron skillet is made in Colombia. A family-owned company there has made cast iron cookware since 1939. 
Victoria cast iron skillets are pre-seasoned with non-GMO flaxseed oil. It creates a natural, nonstick surface that gets better with use.
It also has longer curved handles that are more ergonomic and comfortable.
It has deeper side walls. They prevent spilling and splattering. It also has a wider helper handle that makes lifting easier.
This skillet has a smooth surface. It heats evenly and prevents warping. A large hanging hole allows easy storage.
The Victoria cast-iron skillet works with all heat sources. These include gas, electric, induction, oven, grill, and campfire. 
You can make delicious dishes such as steak, pizza, cornbread, eggs, pancakes, and more. 
Victoria cast-iron skillet is not only great cookware but also has great value. It is affordable, long-lasting, and friendly. Families can pass it down for generations. It’s a symbol of tradition and heritage.
If you want the best cast-iron skillet for your kitchen, look to Victoria cast-iron skillet. You will love its performance, quality, and style.
Pros:
  • This cast iron skillet is made by hand in Colombia. The company uses high-quality cast iron that keeps heat and spreads it evenly.
  • This skillet is pre-seasoned with flaxseed oil.
  • It has longer and curved handles. They give a comfortable and ergonomic grip. They also have spouts on both sides for easy pouring.
Cons:
  • It has a long, curved handle. It can be awkward griping and takes up space on the stove or in the oven.
  • It is not dishwasher-safe. You must wash them by hand with mild soap and water.
$29.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Le Creuset Cast-Iron Skillet  

Le Creuset Cast-Iron Skillet   Le Creuset Cast-Iron Skillet
Are you looking for a versatile, durable, and stylish cookware that can handle any recipe? If so, consider the Le Creuset cast-iron skillet, one of the best cast-iron skillets on the market.
A cast-iron skillet is a kitchen essential that can sear, sauté, fry, bake, and roast various foods. It keeps heat well. It spreads it evenly. Over time, it forms a natural nonstick surface.
It can also add a delicious charred flavor to your dishes that you can’t get from a regular pan. But, not all cast-iron skillets are equal. Some are heavy, hard to clean, and prone to rust.
That’s why you need a great skillet. It will last for generations and work. The Le Creuset cast-iron skillet is a premium product. It mixes the best of old and new features.
It has a smooth enamel interior that resists staining, chipping, and cracking. It also has a colorful enamel exterior. This resists scratches and makes it look better.
This cast-iron skillet comes in various sizes and colors to suit your kitchen decor preferences. The Le Creuset cast-iron skillet has a long handle.
It has a helper handle for easy lifting and moving.
It also has two pouring spouts for convenient serving. This suits all heat sources, including induction, oven, grill, and campfire.
It is easy to clean with warm water and a soft cloth and doesn’t require seasoning. Le Creuset is a French company making high-quality cookware since 1925.
It is known for its iconic cast-iron products. Skilled artisans craft them by hand using the best materials and techniques. Chefs and home cooks worldwide trust Le Creuset products. They trust them for their performance, durability, and beauty.
Pros:
  • This cast iron skillet is enameled with vibrant colors. The colors resist chipping, cracking, and staining. It adds style to your kitchen.
  • It has a black satin enamel inside. It develops a natural patina over time. This improves the skillets’ nonstick performance and the flavor of your food.
  • This cast iron skillet works with all hob types, including induction. It can handle more than 500°F in the oven or under the grill.
Cons:
  • The Le Creuset cast iron skillets are costly compared to other brands. They are a luxury for many home cooks.
  • It is not broiler-safe, limiting its versatility and functionality.
  • This cast iron skillet has straight sides, making pouring or sliding food out of the pan hard.
$219.95 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Caraway Cast-Iron Skillet  

Caraway Cast-Iron Skillet   Caraway Cast-Iron Skillet
Are you seeking a non-toxic, eco-friendly, and stylish alternative to traditional nonstick cookware? If so, check out the Caraway cast-iron skillet, one of the best cast-iron skillets on the market.
A cast-iron skillet is a versatile and durable cookware. It can handle high heat. It retains heat and becomes a nonstick surface. It can also add a delicious charred flavor to your dishes that you can’t get from a regular pan.
But not all cast-iron skillets are easy to use and maintain. Some are heavy, hard to clean, and prone to rust. You need a high-quality skillet that will last years and perform flawlessly.
The Caraway cast-iron skillet is a premium product. It has a smooth, mineral-based ceramic coating. The coating is free of harmful chemicals like PTFE and PFOA. 
It also has a colorful enamel exterior that resists scratches and enhances its appearance. This cast-iron skillet comes in various sizes and colors to suit your kitchen decor preferences.
It has a steel plate on the bottom. This makes it work with all cooktops, including induction. 
It is oven-safe up to 500°F and easy to clean with warm water and a soft cloth. It doesn’t require seasoning, but you can apply oil after each use to improve performance.
Pros:
  • The Caraway skillet is coated with a non-toxic, eco-friendly, mineral-based ceramic. It is easy to clean.
  • This cast iron skillet is thick and sturdy. It heats evenly and keeps heat well.
  • It comes with a removable silicone handle grip. It makes lifting and moving the pan safe and easy. They also come with a rack for convenient storage.
Cons:
  • The Caraway cast iron skillet has a ceramic coating. It can wear off and lose its nonstick properties.
  • This cast iron skillet has a thin, flat bottom. It can warp or dent under high heat or quick temperature changes.
  • It has a painted exterior. It can chip or scratch easily, exposing the bare metal underneath.
$95 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Utopia Kitchen Cast-Iron Skillet  

Utopia Kitchen Cast-Iron Skillet   Utopia Kitchen Cast-Iron Skillet
Do you want delicious meals with durable, versatile, affordable cookware? If so, try the Utopia Kitchen cast-iron skillet, one of the best on the market.
A cast-iron skillet is a kitchen must-have. It can handle high heat, keep it, and develop a natural nonstick surface over time. It can also add a rich, smoky flavor to your dishes that you can’t get from a regular pan.
But not all cast-iron skillets are easy to use and maintain. Some are heavy, hard to clean, and prone to rust. You need a high-quality skillet that will last years and perform flawlessly.
The Utopia Kitchen cast-iron skillet is a top product. It comes pre-seasoned with soy-based oil. This makes it ready to use out of the box. It is made of solid cast iron that is durable, sturdy, and even-heating. 
It has a long and helper handle for easy lifting and maneuvering. It also has two pouring spouts for convenient serving. 
It works with all heat sources. These include gas, electric, induction, oven, grill, and campfire. 
It is easy to clean with warm water and a soft cloth. It doesn’t require seasoning. But you can apply a layer of oil after each use to improve its performance.
Utopia Kitchen is a US-based company that specializes in high-quality kitchenware and accessories. 
Utopia Kitchen products are made to improve your cooking. They make it more fun and satisfying.
Pros:
  • This cast iron skillet is made with heavy-gauge aluminum. It is durable, light, and corrosion-resistant.
  • The Utopia Kitchen has smooth enamel inside and outside. It does not need seasoning. This allows for easy searing and quick cleanup.
  • These cast iron skillets have a stainless steel plate on the bottom. This makes them work with induction cooktops. They also have a pour spout to drain excess oil and fat.
Cons:
  • It is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to handle, store, and clean.
  • It requires regular seasoning and oiling to maintain its nonstick surface and prevent rusting.
  • Don’t wash it in the machine or with soap or strong cleaners. They can ruin the coating and make the skillet worse.
$28.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Dash Cast-Iron Skillet  

Dash Cast-Iron Skillet   Dash Cast-Iron Skillet
Are you looking for the best cast-iron skillet to cook delicious meals at home? If so, consider the Dash cast-iron skillet. This versatile and durable cookware can handle any recipe.
Cast-iron skillets are known for their great heat retention. They also cook food evenly and have a natural nonstick surface. You can use them on any stovetop, oven, grill, or campfire; they will last for generations. 
However, some people find them too heavy, hard to clean, or prone to rust.
That’s why the Dash cast-iron skillet is a great choice. It’s for anyone who wants cast-iron benefits without the hassle. 
This skillet is made of light cast iron. It is 35% lighter than traditional cast iron. This makes it easier to lift and move. 
It also has a smooth enamel interior. It never needs seasoning. Food comes off it easily, and it is easy to wipe clean. 
The Dash cast-iron skillet is compatible with all cooking methods and can create a perfect sear up to 500°F. 
You can use it to make anything from eggs and bacon to steak and vegetables to pizza and cornbread. This cast-iron skillet has different sizes and colors to suit your kitchen decor preferences.
Dash is a company that specializes in kitchen appliances and cookware. They make cooking fun and easy. 
They offer a range of products. These include air fryers, waffle makers, and blenders. They are designed to help you make healthy and tasty food quickly. 
They also work with celebrity chefs, such as Geoffrey Zakarian. They create high-quality and innovative products that bring restaurant dishes to your home.
Pros:
  • The Dash cast iron skillets have a unique coating. It’s called TruPro titanium ceramic nonstick. The coating is rust-resistant, needs no maintenance, and has no harmful chemicals.
  • These cast iron skillets work with all cooking methods. They can make a perfect sear at up to 500°F. They also have two pour spouts for easy serving.
Cons:
  • It has a titanium ceramic coating. It can crack or peel if overheated or scratched by metal utensils.
  • It has a stainless steel handle. It can be slippery and unsafe to use without a silicone grip.
  • It has a smooth, glossy surface. It reduces cast iron’s browning and searing.
$34.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Cuisinel Cast-Iron Skillet  

Cuisinel Cast-Iron Skillet   Cuisinel Cast-Iron Skillet
Do you want to enjoy the benefits of cast-iron cooking without the drawbacks? If so, you might be interested in the Cuisinel cast-iron skillet. This lightweight and easy-to-clean cookware can handle any recipe.
Cast-iron skillets are famous for their heat retention. They also cook food evenly and have a natural nonstick surface. They can be used on any stovetop, oven, grill, or campfire and last for generations. 
However, some people find them too heavy, hard to clean, or prone to rust.
The Cuisinel cast-iron skillet is a great choice. It’s for anyone who wants the best cast-iron skillet to cook tasty meals at home. 
This skillet is made of lightweight cast iron. It is 35% lighter than traditional cast iron. This makes it easier to lift and move. 
It also has a smooth enamel interior. It never needs seasoning, and food releases easily. It is also easy to wipe clean. 
The Cuisinel cast-iron skillet works with all cooking methods. It can create a perfect sear at up to 500°F. 
You can use it to make anything from eggs and bacon to steak and vegetables to pizza and cornbread. 
Cuisinel is a company that specializes in high-quality and affordable cookware. They offer a range of products. These include skillets, Dutch ovens, griddles, and more. They are designed to help you quickly cook healthy and tasty food. 
They also provide cleaning supplies. They also provide pan organizers and glass lids. These make cooking easier and more fun.
Pros:
  • These cast iron skillets are made from premium cast iron. The iron is strong, tough, and versatile. 
  • It is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. This gives it a natural, easy-release finish. The finish improves with time.
  • The Cuisinel cast iron skillet has a silicone hot handle holder. It protects your hand from the heat. They also have a cast iron lid. It locks in moisture and flavor.
Cons:
  • These skillets do not work with induction. They are unsuitable for some stoves and cooktops.
  • It has a large, heavy lid, which can be cumbersome to lift and place on the pan.
  • It has a coarse, grainy texture. It can trap food particles and bacteria. So, they need a thorough cleaning.
$29.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Commercial Chef Cast-Iron Skillet  

Commercial Chef Cast-Iron Skillet   Commercial Chef Cast-Iron Skillet
Do you love cooking with cast iron but hate the heavyweight and the tedious maintenance? You might be interested in the Commercial Chef cast-iron skillet if so. This lightweight and easy-to-clean cookware can handle any recipe.
Cast-iron skillets are famous for their heat retention. They also cook evenly and have a natural nonstick surface. 
They can be used on any stovetop, oven, grill, or campfire and last for generations. However, some people find them too heavy, hard to clean, or prone to rust.
The Commercial Chef cast-iron skillet is a great choice. It’s for anyone who wants the best cast-iron skillet to cook tasty meals at home. 
This skillet is made of light cast iron. It is 35% lighter than traditional cast iron. This makes it easier to lift and move. 
It also has a smooth enamel interior. It never needs seasoning, and food comes off it easily. It is easy to wipe clean. 
The Commercial Chef cast-iron skillet works with all cooking methods. It can create a perfect sear up to 500°F. You can make eggs, bacon, steak, vegetables, pizza, and cornbread. 
This cast-iron skillet has different sizes and colors to suit your kitchen decor preferences.
Commercial Chef is a company that specializes in high-quality and affordable cookware. 
They offer a range of products. These include skillets, Dutch ovens, griddles, and more. Designers created the products to help you quickly cook healthy and tasty food. 
Pros:
  • This skillet is great for professionals and home cooks who want to make restaurant-quality dishes on their stove, oven, broiler, or campfire.
  • It is pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil. They have no synthetic coatings. This makes a nonstick surface that prevents rust.
  • This skillet has even heat distribution. It also has heat retention for all your delicious recipes. 
  • It has loop handles for easy hanging and storage.
Cons:
  • These skillets are not oven-safe. They can only be used for stovetop cooking.
  • It has a pour spout feature. It can be messy and inconvenient when cooking with solid or sticky foods.
  • These skillets have low-quality seasoning. It can flake off or become rancid over time.
$14.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Cast-Iron Skillets’ Reviews

The reviews below were compiled from verified customer reviews on Amazon.

Lodge Cast-Iron Skillet

Lodge is a trusted brand making cast-iron cookware in the USA since 1896. Their cast-iron skillets are pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. This removes the need for synthetic coatings or extra seasoning. 
They are also oven-safe, induction-compatible, and easy to clean and maintain. 
Amazon reviewers love Lodge cast-iron skillets. They have even heat distribution, a nonstick surface, and durability. 
They also appreciate the pour spouts, the comfortable handles, and the affordable price. Some drawbacks are the weight, the handle getting hot, and the occasional rusting.

Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet

Victoria is another reputable brand that has been producing cast-iron cookware since 1939. Their cast-iron skillets are pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. This gives them a smooth, nonstick surface. 
They feature a long and curved handle that is ergonomic and stays cool. They also have a helper handle and two pour spouts for easy lifting and draining. 
Amazon reviewers praise the Victoria cast-iron skillets. They like them for their versatility, ease, and excellent searing. 
They also like the size, the shape, and the color options. Some complaints are the seasoning wearing off, the handle too long, and the pan too shallow.

Le Creuset Cast-Iron Skillet

Le Creuset is a premium brand. It is known for its high-quality and colorful enameled cast-iron cookware. 
Their cast-iron skillets are coated with durable, chip-resistant enamel. The enamel does not need seasoning and resists staining and rusting. They also have a black enamel interior designed for high-temperature cooking and searing. 
Amazon reviewers love the Le Creuset cast-iron skillets. They love them for their beauty, performance, and longevity. 
They also enjoy the wide and shallow design, the large loop handle, and the easy cleaning. Some of the drawbacks are the high price, the weight, and the enamel chipping or cracking.

Caraway Cast-Iron Skillet

Caraway is a modern brand that offers eco-friendly and non-toxic cookware. Their cast-iron skillets are made of 100% pure iron, which is naturally nonstick and free of harmful chemicals. 
They are also pre-seasoned with organic flaxseed oil. It boosts cooking and prevents rusting. 
Amazon reviewers love Caraway cast-iron skillets. They love them for their sleek design, easy cleaning, and healthy cooking. 
They also appreciate the magnetic pan rack and the canvas lid holder that come with the skillet. Some drawbacks are the high price, the limited size and color options, and the handle getting hot.

Utopia Kitchen Cast-Iron Skillet

Utopia Kitchen is a budget-friendly brand that offers quality and value cookware. Their cast-iron skillets are also pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. This gives them a smooth and nonstick cooking surface. 
They feature a long, sturdy handle and a helper handle for easy lifting and handling. 
They also have two pour spouts for convenient draining and serving. Amazon reviewers praise the Utopia Kitchen cast-iron skillets. They like them for their low cost, strength, and versatility. 
They also like the large size, the deep sides, and the even heating. Some complaints are the seasoning is wearing off, the pan needs to be lighter, and the handle needs to be longer.

Dash Cast-Iron Skillet

Dash is a company that specializes in kitchen appliances and cookware. They make cooking fun and easy. Their cast-iron skillets are made of lightweight cast iron. It is 35% lighter than traditional cast iron. This makes them easier to lift and maneuver. 
They also have a smooth enamel interior. It never needs seasoning. 
Plus, they have a strong stainless steel handle. They also have a helper handle for comfortable and safe handling. 
Amazon reviewers rave about the Dash cast-iron skillets. They love them for being light, easy to use, and great for searing. 
They also enjoy the wide and shallow design, the vibrant colors, and the easy cleaning. Some drawbacks are the enamel chipping, the handle getting hot, and the pan needing to be thicker.

Cuisinel Cast-Iron Skillet

Cuisinel is a budget-friendly brand that offers quality and value cookware. Their cast-iron skillets are pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. This gives them a smooth, nonstick cooking surface. 
They feature a long, sturdy handle and a helper handle for easy lifting and handling. 
They also have two pour spouts for convenient draining and serving. Amazon reviewers praise the Cuisinel cast-iron skillets for their affordability, durability, and versatility. 
They also like the large size, the deep sides, and the even heating. Some complaints are the seasoning is wearing off, the pan needs to be lighter, and the handle needs to be longer.

Commercial Chef Cast-Iron Skillet

Commercial Chef is a company that specializes in high-quality and affordable cookware. 
Their cast-iron skillets are made of lightweight cast iron. It is 35% lighter than traditional cast iron, making it easier to lift and move. They also have a smooth enamel interior. It never needs seasoning. Food comes off it easily, and it is easy to wipe clean. 
Plus, they have a sturdy stainless steel handle. They also have a helper handle for comfortable and safe handling. 
Amazon reviewers rave about the Commercial Chef cast-iron skillets. They praise them for being lightweight, easy to use, and great for searing. 
They also enjoy the wide and shallow design, the vibrant colors, and the easy cleaning. Some drawbacks are the enamel chipping, the handle getting hot, and the pan needing to be thicker.

FAQ

Is It Healthy to Cook In A Cast Iron Skillet?

Cast iron skillets can add some iron to your food, especially if it is acidic or moist. This can be helpful for people who have iron deficiency or anemia.
Cast iron skillets are naturally nonstick so you can use less oil. This can reduce the calories and saturated fat in your meals.
Cast iron skillets are free of harmful. They may leach from other types of cookware, such as Teflon or aluminum. This can reduce the risk of toxicity or cancer.
Cast iron skillets are tough and versatile. You can use them for many cooking methods and recipes. This can increase your culinary creativity and enjoyment.

What Is A Cast Iron Skillet Best Used For?

Some of the best uses for a cast iron skillet are:
  • Cooking meat, fish, and vegetables at high temperatures makes them crispy and tasty.
  • Baking bread, cakes, pies, and other baked goods, giving them a golden and crispy crust. 
  • Frying eggs, bacon, potatoes, and other breakfast foods make them crispy and tender.
  • Making soups, stews, chili, and other one-pot meals is hearty and comforting.
  • Roasting chicken, turkey, pork, and other meats gives them a juicy and tender texture.

What Do You Cook In A Cast-Iron Skillet?

As you know, cast-iron skillets are an essential kitchen tool that you can use for various dishes. Some of the best dishes you can cook in a cast iron skillet are:
  • Steak: Cast iron skillets can create a perfect sear and crust on steaks and retain the heat and juices. 
  • Cornbread: Cast iron skillets can make a crisp, golden crust on cornbread. They keep it moist and tender inside. Add cheese, jalapeños, bacon, or other ingredients to your cornbread batter. They will add flavor and texture.
  • Fried chicken: Cast iron skillets can fry chicken to a golden and crunchy perfection. They also keep it juicy and tender inside. 
  • Dutch baby: Cast iron skillets can bake a Dutch baby, which is a large and fluffy pancake that puffs up in the oven. 

What Is The Best Oil to Season Cast Iron Skillets?

Seasoning cast iron skillets is applying oil to the skillets’ surface. Then, heating it at a high temperature creates a protective and nonstick layer. 
The best oil to season cast iron with has a high smoke point. It means it can withstand high heat without burning or breaking down. Some of the best oils for seasoning are mentioned below:
  • Flaxseed oil is known for hardening. It forms a durable coating on cast iron. Flaxseed oil also has a high smoke point of around 225 degrees F, which makes it quick to season cast iron.
  • Canola oil is common and affordable. It has a high smoke point of around 400 degrees F. This makes it good for seasoning cast iron. 
  • Vegetable oil is another common and cheap oil. It has a high smoke point of about 400 degrees F. This makes it good for seasoning cast iron. 
  • Avocado oil is a premium and healthy oil. It has a very high smoke point of about 500 degrees F. This makes it ideal for seasoning cast iron. 

Should I Oil My Cast Iron After Every Use?

Yes, it would be best if you oiled your cast iron after every use. After every use, Oiling your cast iron helps maintain the seasoning and prevent rust. 
After every use, Oiling your cast iron also helps keep it clean and nonstick. To oil your cast iron after every use, follow these steps:
  1. Wash your cast iron using hot water and a sponge or stiff brush. Avoid using soap, steel wool, or the dishwasher, as these can damage the seasoning. If there are any stuck-on bits of food, use coarse salt and hot water to scrub them off, then rinse with hot water.
  2. Dry a cast iron thoroughly with a paper towel or lint-free cloth. You can also heat your cast iron on the stove for a few minutes to ensure it’s completely dry.
  3. Oil it with a thin cooking oil using a paper towel or lint-free cloth. You can use any of the oils mentioned above for seasoning cast iron or oil with a high smoke point. Make sure to oil the entire surface of your cast iron, including the handle and the bottom.
  4. You want to leave a very thin and even layer of oil on your cast iron, not enough to drip or pool.
  5. Store your cast iron in a dry and cool place. Avoid stacking or nesting your cast iron with other cookware, which can scratch or chip the seasoning. You can also place a paper towel or cloth between your cast iron and other cookware. This will protect the seasoning.

What Happens If You Don’t Oil Your Cast Iron?

If you don’t oil your cast iron, you risk damaging the seasoning and exposing the iron to rust. 
Rust can also weaken the structure and durability of your cast iron. You risk losing the seasoning if you don’t oil your cast iron. The seasoning is what makes it nonstick. 

Do You Wash a Cast Iron Skillet?

Yes, you do wash a cast iron skillet, but in a different way than other cookware. Cast iron skillets must be washed using hot water and a sponge or stiff brush. 
You can also use a small amount of gentle soap if needed but avoid using harsh detergents, abrasives, or chemicals that can strip the seasoning.

How Do You Clean a Rusty Cast Iron Skillet?

If your cast iron skillet has developed some rust, don’t panic. With some simple steps, you can restore a cast iron skillet to its former glory. Here’s how to clean a rusty cast iron skillet:
  1. Use hot water and a little soap if needed. But avoid vinegar or other acids. They can damage the iron. Rinse well and dry thoroughly.
  2. Re-season your cast iron skillet. Follow the steps above for seasoning cast iron. Oil and heat create a new, protective, nonstick layer. You may need to repeat the seasoning process several times to build up a strong and even coating.
  3. Use it for your cast iron skillet regularly. Follow the steps above for washing, drying, and oiling your cast iron skillet after every use. 

How Do You Cook a Steak In a Cast-Iron Skillet?

Cooking a steak is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a juicy and tender steak at home. Here are the steps to cook a steak in a cast iron skillet:
  1. Preheat your oven and place your cast iron skillet on the stove over high heat. Let it heat up until it’s very hot and smoking.
  2. Season your steak with oil, salt, pepper, and other spices or herbs. Rub oil or butter on your steak for extra flavor and moisture.
  3. Carefully place your steak on the hot cast iron skillet. Sear for about 3 minutes per side or until a brown crust forms. You can also use tongs to sear the edges of your steak.
  4. Transfer your cast iron skillet with the steak to the oven. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes or until your steak reaches your desired doneness. 
  5. Remove the cast iron skillet and let it rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board or a plate.

Conclusion

Cast-iron skillets are very versatile. They are also long-lasting. Every kitchen should have one. They can handle high temperatures, retain heat well, and create a delicious crust on your food. However, not all cast-iron skillets are created equal.
Many brands and models are available. The Lodge cast-iron skillet stands out as the best. It is known for its quality, performance, and affordability. It is pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, making it nonstick and easy to use. 
It is also compatible with any heat source. The Lodge cast-iron skillet can handle everything if you want to fry, bake, roast, or grill.