10 Best Cast Iron Pans 2025 in the United States

The Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned chef. One of its greatest strengths is the pre-seasoned surface, which makes cooking and cleaning easier by providing a natural non-stick finish. The skillet is versatile enough to be used on various heat sources, including stovetops, ovens, grills, and even over campfires, making it suitable for a wide range of recipes from frying to baking.

Another notable feature is its impressive heat retention, which ensures even cooking. While it takes a little longer to heat up, once hot, it maintains temperature very well, perfect for tasks like searing meats or roasting vegetables. The cast iron material also adds a unique flavor to dishes over time with proper use and seasoning.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The skillet is relatively heavy at 5.06 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users, particularly when maneuvering it with food inside. Additionally, it requires specific care, as it cannot be washed in a dishwasher and must be hand washed and regularly seasoned to prevent rust. Though the initial appearance might show some spots that resemble rust, it’s simply oil that hasn't fully carbonized and will improve with use. Lodge has a long-standing reputation for quality, being family-owned and committed to American craftsmanship, which adds to the product's appeal.

The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder, 12-inch, is a versatile cooking tool suitable for a variety of methods such as searing, sautéing, baking, broiling, braising, frying, and grilling. Its pre-seasoned cooking surface with 100% natural vegetable oil ensures immediate use and excellent heat retention and even heating, making it reliable for consistent cooking results.

The assist handle provides better control, especially given the heft of cast iron, which can be a challenge due to its weight. This skillet is designed for use across various heat sources, including ovens, stoves, grills, and campfires, and it is also compatible with induction cooktops. The included red silicone handle holder, which protects hands from heat up to 500°F and is dishwasher safe, adds an extra layer of convenience and safety.

However, the skillet itself requires hand washing and maintenance to prevent rust, which may be a drawback for those preferring dishwasher-safe cookware. The skillet's weight is another consideration; it is robust and durable but may be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, while it has a nonstick coating, it is not as easy to clean as modern nonstick pans. Despite these points, the skillet is an excellent choice for those who appreciate traditional, versatile cookware.

The Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle is a versatile kitchen tool that is pre-seasoned and ready for immediate use. At 10.5 inches, it provides ample cooking space for a variety of dishes, from searing and sautéing to baking and grilling. The griddle's size makes it suitable for use in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or even over a campfire, adding to its versatility.

It is also compatible with induction cook-tops, gas, and electric coil stoves, making it a flexible choice for different cooking environments. The griddle is made in the USA and is praised for its durability and quality. However, it weighs 4.5 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users to handle comfortably. Additionally, it requires hand washing, as it is not dishwasher safe, which could be a downside for those who prefer low-maintenance cookware.

The handle design is straightforward, but it can get hot, so using an oven mitt is recommended. One of the standout features is that it comes pre-seasoned, which saves you the initial effort of seasoning it yourself and provides a non-stick surface right out of the box. The cooking surface is smooth, allowing for even heat distribution and excellent cooking results. The Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle is a robust and versatile option for those looking for a reliable cast iron griddle that can be used in various cooking settings. Its weight and hand wash requirement are minor inconveniences compared to its functionality and performance.