My Uncle Was a Chef for 30 Years and Recommends This $29 Pan to Everyone
If I ever need advice on cooking tools or recipes, there’s one person I know I can always count on — my uncle. With over 30 years of experience as a chef, he’s a pro in the kitchen. This past holiday season, I took the opportunity to pick his brain about the tools he swears by when cooking. Without hesitation, he mentioned Lodge’s Cast Iron Skillet, and honestly, I wasn’t at all surprised.
The Kitchn contributor Ian is also a fan of this skillet. Why? It’s versatile, built to last, and the price is unbeatable. If you’re intimidated by cast iron, don’t be — this skillet comes pre-seasoned and cleanup is easier than you might think. It stacks up to the top brands without the hefty price, and it’s currently on sale on Amazon for under $30!
Lodge 10.25" Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder
Amazon
$29.12 (was $40.75)
What Is the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet?
This pre-seasoned 10.25-inch Lodge Skillet comes with a red silicone handle holder and is perfect for cooking practically anything — steak, searing veggies, or even your go-to breakfast scramble. And it’s not just for the stovetop! You can throw it over a campfire, pop it on the grill, or stick it in the oven; it does it all. The skillet can also be used for frying, searing, baking, broiling, and sautéing.
Since you’ll probably be reaching for this pan all the time, it’s good to know how to keep it in great shape. Cast iron might sound high-maintenance, but it’s really not. Just hand-wash it with a stiff brush or sponge (no soap needed), dry it completely, and rub on a thin layer of cooking oil all over, even the handle. This keeps it naturally nonstick and ready to use.
Once you get the hang of it, cast iron is seriously amazing. It builds up seasoning over time, so your food gets more flavorful the more you use it. Plus, it heats evenly and is made from sustainable materials, so you can feel good about using it, too!
Why You’ll Love About the Lodge Cast Iron Pan
After hearing my uncle rave about this pan, I’m convinced it’s a kitchen essential you’ll use all the time. “It’s amazing — I use it for everything,” he says. “I keep it right on my stove because I’m always reaching for it. I fry, sear, sauté, and even toss it in the oven to crisp up veggies. For the price, you really can’t beat it.”
He adds, “I live alone, so the 10-inch is perfect for me. But you could easily use it to cook for two or three people if needed,” he says. If you’re cooking for a larger group, the 12-inch version is a great option for feeding four or more. And he’s not the only one who loves it; my aunt swears by this pan, too, and even Ina Garten has sung its praises. When two chefs with years of experience say it’s worth it, you know it’s been thoroughly tested.
At just $29, you’ll get a super versatile piece of cookware that can last for years (with the right care!). It’s the perfect buy for right now, something you’ll use forever, and even pass down from generation to generation.
Buy: Lodge Cast Iron Pan $29.12 (originally $40.75)