A cast iron skillet is made by pouring an alloy of molten iron into a sand mold and then allowing it to cool before breaking away the sand. A cast iron skillet is incredibly tough and should last your lifetime. Some skillets have been passed down from generation to generation.

TIPS FOR USE

BUY WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU

Make sure that the skillet you’re considering isn’t so heavy that you have trouble lifting it. Cast iron is heavy, so don't go too large if you will have trouble with the weight.  Also, cast iron skillet handles get too hot to grab without protection. Are you buying one with a side handle? It makes it easier to lift the pan with oven mitts. 

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SEASONING

"Seasoning" simply means adding an oil coating & heating to create a non-stick surface.  Seasoning is essential to preserving your cast iron and keeping it from rusting. Most cast iron's today come pre-seasoned, which means it comes smooth, shiny & nonstick. You should re-season whenever food sticks to the surface, or if the skillet appears dull or rusted.

HOW TO SEASON CAST IRON :

• Preheat oven to 350°F.

• Wash the skillet with warm, soapy water & a sponge. Cast iron should not normally be washed with soap, but it’s fine if the pan is about to be seasoned.

• Rinse & thoroughly dry the skillet with a clean, dry cloth or paper towels.

• Pour an oil or melted shortening into the skillet. A tablespoon or two is plenty. Any cooking oil of your choice is fine.

• Use a clean cloth or paper towel to rub the coat around the entire skillet.

• Flip the skillet over: Don’t forget the outside of the skillet. You want a thin coat of oil around the entire skillet.

• Place the skillet upside down on the oven’s center rack. Place a sheet of aluminum foil below the rack to catch any drips. Bake for 30 mins.

• Turn off the heat and allow to the skillet to cool completely before removing from oven. Once it’s cooled, you are seasoned!

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CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

• Clean the skillet immediately after use, while it is still hot or warm. Don’t soak the pan or leave it in the sink because it may rust.

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• Wash the skillet by hand using hot water and a sponge or stiff brush. Avoid using the dishwasher, soap, or steel wool, as these may strip the pan’s seasoning.

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• To remove stuck-on food, scrub the pan with a paste of coarse kosher salt and water. Then rinse or wipe with a paper towel. Stubborn food residue may also be loosened by boiling water in the pan.

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• Thoroughly towel dry the skillet.

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• Using a cloth or paper towel, apply a light coat of vegetable oil or melted shortening to the inside of the skillet. Some people also like to oil the outside of the skillet. Buff to remove any excess.

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• Store the skillet in a dry place.

TOP RATED CAST IRON

 Lodge Pre-Seasoned Skillet

Lodge cast iron is the best in the country! Lodge has been making cast iron cookware for over 100 years. Their products are solid, sturdy, and made to last.