Our Favorite Cast Iron Skillet from Lodge Is a Steal at $20

The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet beat out 22 other pans to be awarded our best overall pick. It performs solidly, has a sturdy construction, and clocks in at an affordable price—a mere $20. That's the price of a few lattes, and it will last you a lifetime (and beyond!). This skillet is family heirloom material. We love using it to sear, shallow fry, and even bake cornbread in—that's the beauty of cast iron, it's incredibly versatile and can go from stovetop to oven. It’s an essential piece of cookware for any kitchen, and at this price, it’s an evergreen deal. (We also like the Lodge dual-handled cast iron skillet, too).

To buy: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, $20 at amazon.com

Good to Know:

• Weight: 5 pounds, 8.5 ounces
• Cooking surface: 8.25 inches
• Comes pre-seasoned: Yes
• Induction compatible: Yes
• Also available: A 12-inch version for larger recipes.

FAQs

How long do Lodge cast iron skillets last?

As long as you care for your pan and season it regularly, your cast iron pan could theoretically last forever. Cast iron seasoning happens when oils are heated on the surface enough to polymerize, and if you keep replacing this coating with regular seasoning, the cast iron will be protected from rust. 

Are Lodge cast iron pans pre-seasoned?

Yes—every piece of Lodge cast iron comes pre-seasoned and is ready to use. However, as you cook with your pan more and more, you’ll notice the seasoning start to build up and create a smoother, more nonstick surface.