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When it comes to cookware, there’s a lot of fuss about what’s ideal: non-stick, stainless steel, copper… the list goes on. But the cast iron pan is one piece that has truly withstood the test of time. From the hearths of the 1800s through to modern stovetops and ovens, cast iron pans have remained a favourite for a reason.
In 2025, they’re still going strong, and if you’ve been wondering whether it’s worth buying one, the short answer is: absolutely.
Let’s see what makes cast iron skillets a wise investment for both amateur and seasoned cooks.
It's durable
One of the biggest reasons people swear by cast iron is its sheer durability. Unlike non-stick pans that wear out after a few years of use (or worse, scratch and start peeling), cast iron skillets get better with age. If properly cared for, they can last for decades, some are even passed down from grandparents to grandchildren.You’re not just buying a pan. You’re buying a legacy.
They are naturally non-stick
Once it is seasoned, coated with oil, and heated, it forms a natural non-stick surface. The more you use it, the more seasoned it gets. Cooking eggs, pancakes, and searing meat all become easier over time.
And the best part? You don’t have to worry about toxic coatings or chemicals like PFOAs or PFTEs. Cast iron is about as natural as it gets.
Perfect for Rustic, Instagram-Worthy Dishes
Okay, maybe not the most crucial reason, but let’s be real. There’s something undeniably charming about serving a dish straight from a blackened skillet. Whether it’s a bubbling apple crumble or a sizzling sauce, cast iron makes everything look more authentic and inviting.
If you enjoy plating and presentation, a cast iron skillet will become your new favourite cookware prop.
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If you’re shopping for your very first pan or an upgrade, these models stand out in terms of performance, durability, and value for money.
1. Lancaster No. 10 Cast Iron Skillet
Handcrafted in Pennsylvania, the Lancaster No. 10 skillet is a nice example of American-made cookware. Designed to be lighter than most modern cast iron skillets, it offers better heat control and retention without being cumbersome to handle.
Lancaster No. 10 Cast Iron Skillet
Its smooth finish is a tribute to the traditional skillets of the past, built to last and be passed down for generations to come. The classic handle and helper grip give it a familiar, functional feel, whether searing over a gas burner or roasting over an open flame.
Price: $225 Where to Buy: Shop Amazon
2. Field Company No. 8 Cast Iron Skillet
Understated in its minimalist looks but dynamic in performance, the Field Company No. 8 skillet makes a mark through understatement. It dispenses with traditional pour spouts for the more subtle flared edges that permit liquids to pour cleanly and easily.
What sets this skillet apart is its featherlight weight without compromising on heat retention. It's ideal for everyday use and for those who prefer minimalist, no-frills cookware.
Price: $165 Where to Buy: Shop Amazon
They are versatile
A well-seasoned cast iron skillet can go from hob to oven to grill without blinking. It will fry, roast, bake, sear, and sauté. You want crisp roast chicken? Throw it in the oven. Perfectly charred steak? Heat your pan nice and hot on the hob. Cornbread or deep-dish pizza? Put it in your skillet and bake.
Cast iron is the kitchen multitasker and accepts high heat, unlike most non-stick cookware.It holds heat very well
Ever get frustrated when your food seems to get cold within seconds of taking it out of a regular pan? Not with cast iron. It holds heat, making it ideal for slow cooking and keeping food warm. Its consistent heat conductivity also helps brown food perfectly; no more half-raw, half-burned surprises.
It does take a little longer to heat up. But once hot, it stays hot, which is what great cooking is all about.
3. Victoria 10" Cast Iron Skillet
For the budget-conscious, the Victoria 10" skillet offers amazing value. It distributes heat well, is receptive to temperature adjustments, and even has a curved handle that makes it surprisingly easy to handle.
Victoria 10" Cast Iron Skillet
Despite being on the lower end of the price point, roughly $26, it performs as well as higher-priced brands. This also makes it an excellent option for students, cast-iron newbies, or anyone needing a good pan that does the job without breaking the bank.
Price: $26.35, Where to Buy: Shop Amazon
4. Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
If you love the idea of cast iron but loathe the maintenance, Le Creuset's enameled skillet might be your dream come true. With its non-reactive enamel coating, the pan requires no seasoning and is much less high-maintenance. Its performance is first-rate, specifically at searing and sautéing, and its vibrancy adds a splash of sweetness to any kitchen.
Price: $216.99, Where to Buy: Shop Amazon
It Adds Iron to Your Food
Here’s a fun fact: cooking with cast iron can increase your iron levels. This is particularly handy if you are anaemic or iron-deficient. It won't replace your supplements, of course, but it's a nice nutritional bonus, especially if you cook acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus-based sauces regularly, because they’ll extract more iron from the pan.
Ecologically Sound
In the era of disposable culture, cast iron skillets are a pleasantly green alternative. They don’t have plastic handles or synthetic coatings and don't need to be replaced every few years. Buy one, and you won't be in the market for another many, many years, if ever. Most are made from recycled iron, advancing their green appeal.
5. Lodge 10.25-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Without the classic Lodge, there could not be a top five of the cast irons. Its 10.25-inch skillet is a family staple across generations due to its low price point (usually under $30) and steady performance. Pre-seasoned and ready to cook, the pan is ideal for beginners and pro chefs alike.
Lodge 10.25-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
The pan sears meat perfectly, stands up to heavy use, and can take from cornbread to steaks. It might not have the sleek look of its high-end cousins, but it's difficult to top regarding sheer utility and value for the money.
Price: $19.90, Where to Buy: Shop Amazon
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Let’s get real: Cast iron does take a bit of a learning curve. You can’t toss it in the dishwasher or leave it sitting in the sink soaking, but it becomes second nature with a bit of care.
Here’s a simple maintenance routine:
After cooking, wipe it out or use warm water and a soft brush (no soap!).
Dry it thoroughly with a towel.
Rub a thin layer of oil on the surface.
Store it in a dry place.
Budget-friendly in the Long Run
Although a good cast iron skillet might cost more upfront than a non-stick pan, it’s worth the investment in the long run. You won’t have to replace it every couple of years.
A cast iron pan is more than a pan; it's an investment in better cooking. If you’re searching for heirloom quality, ease with low maintenance, or unmatched value, there’s something on this list for you.
So, select the one that suits your style and be ready to elevate your cooking to a new level. And remember, with good care, any of these skillets can be passed down to the next generations of cooks in your family.