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Top 10 Best Cast Iron Skillets
- Lodge L8SK3 Round (Editor’s Choice)
- Le Creuset Round Cerise (Luxury Choice)
- KitchenCraft KCCIRDPLN Induction Safe (Best Value)
- Cuisinel 10inches Pre-Seasoned (Best with Handle Cover)
- Cuisinel 8inches Oven-safe (Best with Handle Cover)
- Kichly 6inches, 8inches and 10inches (Best Set of Three)
- Fresh Australian Kitchen 12inches (Best Pre-Seasoned)
- Nuovva 3-Piece Chef Set (Best for BBQs)
- VonShef Easy to Clean (Best Starter Option)
- STAUB Black (Best Easy Pour)
Versatile and durable are terms that perfectly describe the best-cast iron skillet in the UK. This kitchen cookware is celebrated by discerning chefs and by amateur home cooks.
Well, if you’re not lucky enough to inherit one of your great grandma’s Griswold pan that had seasoned over the decade to a perfect non-stick finish, don’t worry! Today’s models come pre-seasoned and can be used straight from the box. Also, they can stand the test of time if they are given proper TLC.
Whether you’re looking forward to buying a new cast iron skillet or looking to replace the one you have, you’re in the right place. We have done your homework and compiled a list of the ten best iron skillets. Then read on to find the best-cast iron skillet for you and your home!
How We Compared Cast Iron Skillets
To find the right cast iron skillets we considered multiple factors, including:
- Overall Size and Weight
- Enameled or Uncoated
- Handles
- Pouring Lips
Our editorial team carefully researched and selected products that would suit a wide range of needs to take your kitchen experience to the next level. We set out this list after assessing customer reviews and evaluating pros and cons in line with the above comparison points.
Find more about our behind-the-scenes process here.
Cast Iron Skillet Reviews
Lodge L8SK3 Round (Editor’s Choice)
The Lodge L8SK3 cast iron skillet from the Lodge brand is topping our best-cast iron skillets list. This 26cm cast iron skillet boasts versatility as you can use it on all hob types, ovens, BBQ grills or even open fire.
It comes with useful design features, such as a helper handle that makes lifting and manoeuvring it a breeze. Also, pouring liquids using this pan is easy, thanks to its two-sided lips. Furthermore, it comes pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil from the lodge’s foundry.
The Lodge L8SK3 cast iron skillet can be used for frying, braising, searing, broiling or even baking. Cleaning it is also straightforward as you only need to wash it in water with a small amount of dishwasher soap and pat dry it using a paper towel. Then coat it with a light layer of vegetable oil while it’s still warm. For storage, hang it using its hanging loop in a dry place.
However, you need to be extra careful with this skillet as sometimes it can get too hot. Also, it might be a bit more challenging to clean, so you will need more time and patience when cleaning it.
Pros:
- It’s both stovetop and oven friendly
- The two subtle side lips ensure mess-free pouring
- It can be easily lifted and manoeuvred thanks to its assist handle
- Highly versatile and durable
- Excellent at heat retaining
Cons:
- It may run a little too hot
- Its lack of a lid may not sit well with some users
- Some users may find cleaning it quite a hassle
Le Creuset Round Cerise (Luxury Choice)
The Le Creuset 201822306 Cast Iron Round Skillet is our top luxury choice for the best-cast iron skillets.
This cast iron cookware boasts an enamel coating that replaces the non-stick seasoning. And it makes this pan suitable for cooking any acidic ingredients such as wine, citrus, vinegar and tomatoes. Also, the enamelled interior is resistant to staining and dulling.
You can use this enamelled cast-iron skillet for stir-frying, searing steaks or for making casseroles. Also, it works well with both low and high temperatures. You can use this cast iron cookware from the Le Creuset family on any heat source, including induction.
This enamelled pan also has additional features, including two-pour spouts and a convenient helper handle. In addition, it’s noteworthy to mention that the enamel coating is resistant to chipping and cracking. Last but not least, this cast iron skillet is available in different colourways.
On the other hand, please note that it does not work well with induction stoves. Also, the enamel coating makes it prone to scratches.
Pros:
- The Le Creuset Cast Iron Round Skillet is easy to use
- Easy to clean since its dishwasher- friendly
- It comes with a helper handle
- It has a pouring lip for easy draining
- The enamel coating can withstand the test of time
Cons:
- It may not sit well with an induction stove
- The enamel coating might be prone to scratches
- It may be prone to sticky messes
KitchenCraft KCCIRDPLN Induction Safe (Best Value)
The KitchenCraft KCCIRDPLN Cast Iron skillet tops our list as the best value. Also, it’s the best non-stick skillet that comes with a non-stick coating that builds over time, allowing you to prepare a variety of healthy meal ways.
This pan works well under the grill, in the oven, on the BBQ and all types of hobs. In addition, this heavy skillet boasts a sturdy handle that allows one to lift it confidently from the stovetop to the tabletop.
That being said, bear in mind if you want to protect the cast iron of this cookware, ensure that you always season it well before use. Also, clean it up right after use. Always ensure that you always handwash it and dry it using a paper towel or a kitchen towel. Once it’s dry, season it with a generous amount of oil or flax oil.
Unfortunately, while this can be the best-cast iron skillet in the UK for you, it is prone to rust.
Pros:
- Excellent at heat retention
- Durable and versatile
- It comes with a robust handle
- Its twin pouring lips makes draining a breeze
- Easy to season and use
Cons:
- This iron skillet may be prone to rust
- Cleaning it can be quite a hassle since it’s not dishwasher safe
- Some users may find the handle to be quite uncomfortable
Cuisinel 10inches Pre-Seasoned (Best with Handle Cover)
If you’re looking for a cast-iron skillet that has unparalleled heat retention, then the Cuisine Cast Iron Skillet – 10″-Inch is an ideal pick. Its smooth surface helps to provide even heat distribution for cooking, to braise, sauteing meats, vegetables and broiling.
This cast-iron skillet comes pre-seasoned. And it’s suitable for grills, stovetops or induction cooktops, ovens and open fire. The pouring lips on each side make it easy to tip off any liquid. And its design also ensures that your food will stay hot for approximately 15 minutes.
This cast-iron skillet from Cuisinel also comes with a silicone handle sleeve. Its handle also has a hanging loop that makes it ideal for storage. Furthermore, ensure that you handwash it after every use and dry it thoroughly on the stove at medium heat when cleaning it. Finally, don’t forget to season it with natural oils.
However, please note that this skillet can be challenging to clean. Also, it might be prone to rust.
Pros:
- Even heat retention and distribution
- Can withstand the test of time
- It comes with a handle helper for better control
- Easy to clean and maintain
- It comes with a silicone handle sleeve
Cons:
- Cleaning it can be quite a hassle since it’s not dishwasher-safe
- The silicone handle sleeve may not be cool to the touch when the pan is in use
- It may be prone to rust
Cuisinel 8inches Oven-safe (Best with Handle Cover)
Some recipes might require you to cover your skillet when the food cooks, which is why a lid may often come in handy.
The Cuisine Cast Iron Skillet – 8″-inch non-stick skillet comes with a matching glass cover lid. That allows you to seal in the moisture as your food cooks. Also, you can monitor your cooking progress through the glass lid.
Not only does it boast of being durable, but also it has sloped sides that maximise the cooking surface, allowing easy flipping of food. This cast-iron frying pan also comes with a unique silicone sleeve. And the handle also has a hanging hole that allows you to store it conveniently. Also, its stylish looks allow one to place it on the tabletop when you’re ready to serve your meals.
On the other hand, some users say it is quite bulky, so it might not be the best choice if you have a small kitchen space. In addition, since the lid is made of glass, it is prone to breakage.
Pros:
- It comes with a clear glass lid
- The smooth finish on this pan provides even distribution and retention of heat.
- It’s durable and versatile
- It comes with a non-slip silicone handle sleeve
- It works well with open fire, ovens, grills, and stovetops
Cons:
- The glass lid may be prone to breakage
- Some users may find it quite bulky
- It may require regular seasoning
Kichly 6inches, 8inches and 10inches (Best Set of Three)
If you are looking for a cast iron pan that can give you ultimate versatility when it comes to cast-iron cooking, then the KICHLY Cast Iron Skillet is an excellent choice. Not only can they be used on any heat surface, but also they are excellent at heat retention and distribution.
The KICHLY Cast Iron Skillet comes in a set of three cast iron pans that vary in different sizes. The iron skillets are also pre-seasoned with soy-based oil.
It’s noteworthy to mention that the surface of these iron skillets is less smooth when compared to that of a non-stick frying pan.
This cast-iron skillet comes with a convenient helper handle and twin spouts that help in minimising liquid spillage. Bear in mind that the surface of these pans improves with age.
However, it might be time-consuming and difficult to clean as it is not dishwasher-safe. Also, you may have to be extra careful when using this as it can get very hot.
Pros:
- Retains heat for longer periods
- It comes in a set of three different sizes
- All the skillets are factory seasoned
- Highly versatile and durable
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Cleaning it can be quite a hassle since it’s not dishwasher-safe
- It may be prone to rust
- The handle may get very hot when in use
Fresh Australian Kitchen 12inches (Best Pre-Seasoned)
Are you looking for the best pre-seasoned cast iron skillet? If yes, you should consider the Fresh Australian Kitchen Skillet that can also double as a baking dish.
Not only is this iron skillet unbeatable when it comes to even heat distribution and retention. It also has a thick base that ensures no cool spots are encountered during cooking. You can use it for cooking steak, a casserole dish, braising, sauteing, frying, and baking. This Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron skillet from the Fresh Australian Kitchen comes with two pouring lips, a helper handle. And a hanging loop on its long handle allows one to store it conveniently.
It does come with some disadvantages, however. The major drawback of this skillet is that it does not come with a lid, which may not suit you very well.
Pros:
- Excellent at heat retention and distribution
- Easy to clean and use
- Can withstand the test of time
- The pouring lip on this skillet helps to limit spillage
- It can be easily lifted and manoeuvred thanks to its assist handle
Cons:
- It may run a little too hot
- Its lack of a lid may not sit well with some users
- Some users may find cleaning it quite a hassle
Nuovva 3-Piece Chef Set (Best for BBQs)
Next up on our list of the best iron skillet is the Nuova Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet. Not only does this cast iron skillet set boasts value for money, but also they are versatile pans that give one the ultimate flexibility when it comes to skillet cooking.
These cast iron pans are robust, and their double lip feature is one that most will appreciate. Furthermore, these pans from the Nuova brand come pre-seasoned, so you need not worry about seasoning your pan before using it.
You can use the Nuova Pre-Seasoned cast iron skillet set over a campfire, stovetop, oven or BBQ grill.
When using this skillet, one thing to look out for is that it should be hand washed and seasoned after they dry to prevent rusting.
Pros:
- It comes with a useful double lip for pouring
- Excellent value for money
- Its oven safe
- Easy to clean and maintain
- It’s excellent at even heat retention and distribution
Cons:
- It may be prone to rust
- The skillet may require regular seasoning
- It may not sit well with some users since it lacks a helper handle
VonShef Easy to Clean (Best Starter Option)
If you’re looking for the best starter skillet pan, we recommend the VonShef Cast Iron Skillet.
This cast iron cookware boasts ultra-durability but also it heats up evenly to a high temperature that provides one with balanced results. Furthermore, its natural non-stick pre-seasoned cooking surface allows one to cook with less oil.
While we were impressed by its classic look, the Von Shef cast iron skillet falls short when it comes to its short handle. That makes the pan difficult to move around, and it also gets very hot when the non-stick pan is in use.
Furthermore, it’s noteworthy to mention that you can use this non-stick skillet to prepare a fried egg without dealing with stuck-on messes. Also, you can use it for cooking steak, searing, braising or even broiling.
Meanwhile, this skillet does not come with a helper handle, and its actual handle might be smaller than you have expected.
Pros:
- It comes with a hanging loop for convenient storage
- Retains and distributes heat evenly
- It can be used on any heat surface
- The pouring lip on this skillet helps to limit spillage
- Durable and versatile
Cons:
- It may not sit well with some users since it lacks a helper handle
- Some users may find the handle to be quite small
- This skillet may be prone to stuck-on messes
STAUB Black (Best Easy Pour)
Dependable, durable and robust are terms that best describe the STAUB Cast Iron Skillet. Not only does this cast iron boast of a silky smooth black enamelled interior, but it also has the best non-stick abilities compared to other frying pans.
This pan is ideal for searing meat, braising, stir-frying or even cooking fried eggs.
It’s noteworthy to mention that it also comes pre-seasoned. And its matte black cooking surface is not only scratch resistant but also easy to clean. This cast-iron skillet can be on a grill, oven, and all hob types, including the induction hob.
This skillet features low curved sides that make flipping food a breeze. In addition, the two spouts ensure drip-free pouring. So if you’re looking for a cast iron pan that can transition from oven to table easily, you should consider settling for STAUB Cast Iron Skillet.
One thing to note if you consider getting this skillet is that it does not work well with induction and stovetop cookers.
Pros:
- It can be used on any heat surface
- It comes with a hanging loop for convenient storage
- Retains and distributes heat evenly
- It’s easy to clean and maintain
- This cast-iron skillet is scratch-resistant
Cons:
- It may not sit well with induction or stovetop cookers
- This cast-iron skillet is prone to stuck-on messes
- Some users may find it to be quite bulky
What to Look For When Buying a Cast Iron Skillet
If you are still unsure which one to choose from our list as the best-cast iron skillet in the UK, let us look at some of the important factors you should consider when shopping for one.
Overall Size and Weight
One of the drawbacks to cast irons is that it’s much heavier than cookware of a similar size made from other materials. It’s noteworthy to mention that the cast iron thickness directly impacts the iron skillet’s weight.
However, if you’re not a fan of heavy cast iron cookware, you can settle for skillets made from thinner materials. But it’s important to note that the thickness of a cast-iron skillet plays a major role in heat distribution and retention.
So if weight is a concern for your cast iron cookware, always consider looking at lighter options since the difference is minimal.
When it comes to size, bigger is often better. For example, a large iron skillet allows you to prepare more meals when compared to a small one. Also, when shopping for one, it’s wise to keep the weight in mind, so you don’t end up with cast-iron cookware that is convenient for cooking. But you cannot lift it when it’s filled with food.
Furthermore, it’s wise to keep the size and weight in mind when shopping, so you don’t buy something that affects your storage options.
That being said, always ensure you settle for a product that not only sits well with your preference but also considers your kitchen and storage space.
Enameled or Uncoated
Enameled cast iron skillets never require any seasoning. And cleaning some of them is easy since they are dishwasher friendly. Bear in mind that the enamel coating prevents your meals from getting into contact with the raw materials of your pan.
This coating allows one to prepare any kind of food, including acidic foods such as tomatoes or citrus, using this cookware.
A downside of this coating is that it can crack and chip, rendering your cast iron skillet unfit for cooking. But keep in mind that cast iron skillets can be used on any cooktop and are also oven-friendly.
So, when shopping for an iron skillet, it’s always important to consider the type of coating.
Then there are uncoated cast iron skillets. This type of skillets may come pre-seasoned so that they are ready to be used. Also, it becomes more non-stick with frequent use and additional seasoning.
On the other hand, some iron skillets may not come pre-seasoned. But they normally have an oil coating that prevents the cookware from rusting. Such cooking pans must be washed, dried, and seasoned before use.
Handles
Cast iron skillets are heavy and excellent at retaining heating, so their handle configuration is important. Not only should the handles be sturdy, but also they need to be large enough so that they are a breeze to hold onto when using potholders or oven mittens.
The best-cast iron skillets tend to have a single long handle with a helper handle on the opposite side. The helper handle comes in handy when moving or emptying the skillet.
However, other cast iron skillets may lack the extra helper handle, and you may need to use a two-handed grip on the long handle.
Pouring Lips
When shopping for a cast-iron skillet, it’s always important to consider the type of pouring spout it comes with. Some may have single pouring spouts, while others come with double spouts.
These spouts come in handy when it comes to pouring out the grease during cooking which helps in promoting crispy browned and seared foods.
They are also useful in making a sauce right in the skillet and easily pouring it over your meal while minimising spillage.
Conclusion
That is it for our reviews on our list of best-cast iron skillets. We hope that this article helps you find the best-cast iron skillet that sits well with your cooking methods and preference.
However, if we pick an overall winner for the best-cast iron skillet in the UK, our editor’s choice is the Lodge L8SK3 Round cast-iron skillet. Not only does it come with a large surface area to cook on. But also you can move it easily.
The Lodge Cast Iron Round Skillet is versatile and can be used on the stove, oven, BBQ, grill or over an open fire. It also comes with a helper handle that makes lifting and manoeuvring the frying pan easy. The two-sided lips also make pouring a breeze. Furthermore, this cast iron frying pan comes pre-seasoned.
Lastly, this cast iron cookware boasts of being robust. And it can also withstand the test of time if cared for properly.
Additional Resources
Paul is the type of person who never met a problem he couldn’t fix. He can always be found tinkering with something in his house, even if it isn’t broken! His tips and tricks are often shared on our site. He’s the one you call when something breaks because he has been known to improvise fixes for everything from leaky faucets to malfunctioning dryers.
