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The Best Cast Iron Skillet for Every Type of Cook
Looking for the best cast iron skillets? Whether you need a cast iron pan for induction or a rugged cast iron skillet for grill use, our guide covers the top-rated cookware to ensure a cost-effective, long-term kitchen investment for chefs and home cooks alike.
Whether you’re a chef searing a hundred pork chops a night, a restaurant buyer outfitting a new bistro, or a serious home cook baking cornbread, the cast iron skillet is the most reliable tool in your arsenal.
At s.t.o.p. Restaurant Supply, we believe in providing high-quality, commercial-grade cast iron cookware that brings out the best in your food and beverages. To that end, we’ve curated this guide, backed by long-term testing, to help you find the perfect solution for your cast iron kitchen needs.
How We Picked the Best Cast Iron Skillets
To be the #1 choice for professionals, we evaluated our cast iron pans based on these five criteria:
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Heat Retention: We look for an iron skillet that retains heat across the entire cooking surface.
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Weight & Ergonomics: A large helper handle is essential for a restaurant cook maneuvering a heavy fry pan.
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Seasoning & Finish: We prioritize factory seasoning over synthetic coatings to ensure a smooth surface that becomes more non-stick with use.
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Compatibility: The pan must be oven safe and compatible with an induction cooktop.
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Warranty: Ensuring your cookware is a cost-effective, long-term investment.
Top Picks by Use Case
Best for Grill: The Outdoor Powerhouse
When looking for a cast iron for grill use, durability is king. High-heat searing over open flames requires a well-seasoned cast iron pan that can withstand thermal shock and tolerate flare-ups.
Our top picks move seamlessly from the burner to commercial ovens to ensure a perfect, restaurant-quality oven-finish sear.
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A Lodge skillet with a helper handle is perfect for stabilizing the pan on uneven grates.
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A Lodge Sizzling Chef’s Platter is designed for grilling food that may fall through the grill, such as vegetables and seafood.
Best for Frying: The 12-Inch Workhorse
For frying chicken or shallow frying, depth matters. Our pick? A Lodge Chef Collection skillet with flared sides and an ergonomic helper handle. The best cast iron skillet for frying features depth to prevent oil splatter and dual pour spouts to manage drainage effectively.
Best for Induction: The Flat-Bottom Specialist
Do cast iron pans work on induction? Absolutely. Most cast iron skillets are suitable for induction because iron is a magnetic material. However, ensure the base is flat to avoid a cast iron scratch on your induction cooktop.
Look for flat-bottom models that won't wobble to ensure the magnetic field remains unbroken. For instance, Staub’s square grill cast iron pan works perfectly with all heat sources, including induction.
Best Budget: Performance Without the Premium
Kitchen equipment can be expensive, but you don't have to break the bank to get professional results. Our lowest-priced cast iron skillets include Lodge’s 6.5” skillet and Kitchen Supply’s 14” pan with handle.
Additionally, we offer reliable, pre-seasoned options from Lodge that keep the cast iron skillet cost low while maintaining high durability.
Best Lightweight: The Daily Driver
Modern casting techniques allow for thinner walls that weigh up to 25% less than traditional pans. A Yeti skillet, for example, features a stay-cool handle design and a naturally nonstick coating achieved through precision casting rather than chemicals.
Pro Tip: Best to always have a stainless steel table within reach for landing hot pans or extra storage.
Best Enamelled: The Acid-Friendly Choice
An enamelled cast iron dutch oven from brands like Le Creuset or Staub features a smooth enamel finish. This is ideal for acidic sauces that might strip the polymerized fat seasoning from regular cast iron.
It’s the perfect bridge between a cast iron skillet and a brazier pan. They’re often dishwasher safe, though we still recommend a quick hand wash.
Sizing & Servings Guide
| Size | Servings | Ideal Use Case | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8" | 1–2 | Scrambled eggs or small skillet cornbread. | Lodge 8" Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet |
| 10" | 2–3 | Standard home size; searing steaks for a small table. | Lodge Wildlife Series 10.5" Moose Cast Iron Griddle |
| 12" | 4–6 | The professional standard for pan frying. | Browne 12” Cast Iron Fry Pan |
| 15"+ | 6+ | Large-scale catering or family-style paella. | Lodge 15" Cast Iron Skillet |
Image Source: Shutterstock
How to Clean and Maintain Cast Iron Pans
After cooking, use hot water and a drop of dish soap (yes, it's okay!) to clean the cooking surface. Apply a thin layer of neutral oil or cast iron oil to build more seasoning after every use.
Don't let rust spots form. Always dry your iron on the stovetop over medium heat.
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Bare Cast Iron: Rinse with hot water, dry immediately, and apply a light coat of oil.
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Enamelled Cast Iron: Generally dishwasher safe, but hand-washing is recommended to preserve the glass-like finish.
Learn more: How Do I Season a Cast Iron Skillet?: A Complete Guide
FAQs About Cast Iron Cookware
Do cast iron pans work on induction?
Yes! Iron is naturally magnetic, making cast iron pans ideal for an induction cooktop. Select a model with a perfectly flat base and avoid sliding it on the glass.
Can you use dish soap on cast iron?
Contrary to popular belief, using a small amount of mild dish soap is perfectly safe for modern pre-seasoned pans. Avoid harsh lye-based cleaners and dry the pan immediately to prevent rust.
What is the average cast iron skillet cost?
Prices vary based on brand, size, and type. A standard Lodge skillet ranges from $45 to $120, depending on size, while premium enamelled cast iron Dutch ovens like Le Creuset and Staub often cost upwards of $300 and are higher-end, cost-effective investments due to their longevity.
Will cast iron crack when heated?
Only if subjected to extreme thermal shock (like cold water on a red-hot pan).
Key Takeaways
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High-quality cast iron skillets are designed to retain heat across the entire surface, making them the premier choice for searing steaks and frying chicken.
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Most cast iron pans are magnetic and can be used on induction cooktops, provided you select flat-bottom models to prevent scratching the glass.
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From a rugged cast iron grill pan to enamelled cast iron Dutch oven models for acidic sauces, there is a specialized pan for every culinary task.
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Professionals should prioritize a large helper handle and pour spouts to safely maneuver a heavy fry pan during high-volume service.
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Although the initial cost of a cast iron skillet varies, these pans are a lifetime investment that becomes more nonstick with proper seasoning and care.
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Modern care is simple; use hot water and mild dish soap to clean, then dry over medium heat to prevent rust spots.
Guarantee Grade A Cook Every Time with The Best Cast Iron Skillets
Whether you’re a professional chef seeking high-volume durability or a home cook looking for a "one-stop shop" solution to elevate your kitchen, s.t.o.p. Restaurant Supply is committed to providing the industry-leading tools you deserve.
Our deep relationships with top commercial brands ensure that every iron skillet we carry is a cost-effective investment in your culinary future.
Getting the best cast iron skillets delivered across Canada has never been easier. Trust our unmatched product knowledge and grounded service to help you find the perfect pan for every sear, fry, and bake.
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