Buzz
Cast iron skillets, known for their strength and durability, are a kitchen staple that require extra care compared to other cookware. Unlike stainless steel or aluminum pans, they have a special nature that needs a bit more attention to maintain their quality over time.
This cast iron skillet, crafted from heavy-duty iron, is perfect for high-heat cooking techniques such as searing, browning, and baking. You can use it to cook a variety of dishes, from chicken thighs and pork chops to eggs, pancakes, and cornbread. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for any kitchen, but it’s crucial to care for it properly.
If you find the idea of seasoning your cast iron cookware daunting, don’t worry! Many popular skillets now come pre-seasoned, making the process much easier. We’ve compiled a list of six such skillets that are ready to use out of the box.
Culinary expert Rasheeda Purdie, an instructor at Hostos CUNY in New York City and founder of Ramen by Ra, advises that if your skillet comes pre-seasoned, you simply need to rinse it lightly, dry it well, and apply a thin layer of cooking oil. Heat it on the stove at low-medium heat for 5-7 minutes, let it cool, and repeat the process once more.
After each use, it’s essential to clean your cast iron skillet to prevent food residue and grease buildup. Purdie recommends washing it by hand with hot water and mild dish soap. If needed, you can also use a non-abrasive scraper to remove stuck-on bits.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to maintain your skillet, it’s time to find the right one for your kitchen. Below, we’ve listed the best pre-seasoned cast iron cookware available online, based on rave reviews from users.
1. Staub enameled cast iron skillet
This 11-inch cast iron skillet boasts high sides to reduce splattering. It features a durable enameled black interior for achieving perfect browning when cooking dishes like chicken, sausage, onions, tortillas, and more. Rust-resistant and requiring no seasoning, it's ideal for quick recipe experimentation. Plus, it's dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
Promising review: "This is my first Staub cookware purchase, and it exceeded my expectations in every way! I am accustomed to having to 'season' cast iron cookware before you can cook in it without foods sticking. Not so with this pan. Performed beautifully from the very first time I used it. Excellent value." — Bluzhound
Purchase it from Williams Sonoma for $250 (available in 12 colors).
2. Lodge seasoned cast iron skillet
3. Victoria cast iron skillet
4. Le Creuset enameled cast iron skillet
5. Cuisinel cast iron skillet with a lid
6. Our Place cast iron Always Pan
I’ve been using Our Place's cast iron Always Pan for several weeks, and it’s by far the easiest pan to clean in my kitchen. I’ve cooked a range of dishes, such as chicken, eggs, salmon patties, and sausage, and it still looks pristine. With its black matte enameled cast iron interior, it ensures flawless browning without any need for seasoning. This pan is designed to replace eight traditional cookware pieces, including a frying pan, sauté pan, steamer, and skillet. It’s available in six colors: dusty pink, cream, dark gray, green, lavender, and blue.
Get it from Our Place for $110 (originally $155).
The reviews for this post have been shortened and clarified for readability.
