The Lodge 12-Inch is the Best Cast Iron Skillet is hands-down one of the best investments you can make for your kitchen. Durable, versatile, and built to last a lifetime, this cast iron skillet is the one I reach for again and again—whether I’m cooking on a quiet weeknight or hosting a dinner party.
From searing steak and crisping chicken thighs to baking cornbread or caramelizing fruit for a rustic tart, the Lodge 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet performs beautifully. It holds heat evenly, develops a perfect golden crust, and transitions effortlessly from stovetop to oven, and even the grill!
So what makes the Lodge 12-Inch the best Cast Iron Skillet and stand out from the rest? For starters, it’s pre-seasoned and ready to use right out of the box—no complicated prep needed. It has deep sides for added versatility and a wide cooking surface that’s ideal for both large meals and everyday use.
And perhaps best of all? This skillet is virtually indestructible. With a little care—no soap, dry it well, and rub it with oil after each use—the Lodge cast iron skillet only improves over time. It’s one of those rare tools that becomes more seasoned, more nonstick, and more cherished with every meal.
I’ve tested a lot of pans over the years, but the Lodge 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet consistently hits the sweet spot: professional-level performance, unbeatable price, and heirloom-quality durability. It’s the cast iron skillet I always recommend—for new cooks, seasoned chefs, and anyone who truly loves to cook.
Why I Love the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
- Pre-seasoned and ready to use
- Perfect for high-heat searing, roasting, or baking AND grilling!
- American-made and incredibly durable
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
How to clean cast iron: Clean it with Salt, Not Soap
To clean your cast iron skillet without stripping its seasoning, try this: while the pan is still warm (not hot), sprinkle in a tablespoon of coarse kosher salt and use a folded paper towel or dish cloth to scrub. The salt acts as a gentle abrasive, lifting food bits without damaging the surface. Wipe clean, rinse with a splash of warm water if needed, then dry thoroughly and rub with a thin layer of oil to keep it protected. No soap. No fuss. Just a naturally clean, perfectly seasoned skillet.
Why Choose the 12-Inch Skillet Over Other Sizes?
Cast iron skillets come in a variety of sizes, but the 12-inch Lodge skillet strikes the ideal balance between everyday practicality and meal prep flexibility.
More Room, Less Crowding: A 10-inch skillet is great for a quick egg, grilled cheese or a single piece fo chicken, but it can feel cramped when you’re cooking for more than one. The 12-inch version offers ample space to sear multiple chicken thighs, sauté a big batch of veggies, or cook pancakes without overlapping.
Still Easy to Handle: While the 15-inch version exists, it’s bulky and better suited for camping or feeding a crowd. The 12-inch cast iron skillet gives you generous cooking space without sacrificing comfort, control, or storage space.