Cast Iron Pan Pricing: What's The Real Cost?

Cast iron pans are a great addition to your kitchen. They are durable, naturally non-stick, and great at retaining heat. They are also beloved by chefs and amateur home cooks alike.

The price of cast iron pans can vary depending on the brand and quality. Here is a list of cast iron pans with their respective prices:

- Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: $50

- Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: $30 (with handle grip)

- Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: $25 (without handle grip)

- Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: $25 (without handle grip)

- Yellowstone x Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, 10.25: $24.90

- Lodge Cast Iron Seasoned 12 Skillet: $24.92

- Ozark Trail Pre-seasoned 15 Cast Iron Skillet with Handle and Lips: $25.88

- Ozark Trail Pre-seasoned 12 Cast Iron Skillet with Handle and Lips: $17.88

- Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned 2 in 1 Cast Iron Pan 5 Quart Double Dutch Oven Set: $55.99

- Mainstays 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet: $12.94

- Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid Kitchen Cookware Pre-Seasoned 10: $32.98

- Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet (12-Inch) with Glass Lid and Handle Cover Oven Safe Cookware: $37.99

- Smithey No. 10 Cast-Iron Skillet: $160

- Made In 11-Inch Enameled Cast-Iron Skillet: $200

- Butter Pat Joan 12-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: $345

- Field Company 10 1/2-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: $165

- Finex 10-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: N/A

- Our Place Always 10.5-Inch Cast-Iron Pan: $120

- Kana Milo 10-Inch Ultimate Skillet: N/A

- Lodge 12-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: $25

- Valor 12-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: $16

- Utopia 12.5-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: N/A

- Victoria 12-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet: $17

Where to buy cast iron pans

There are many options for purchasing cast iron pans, both in-store and online. Here is a list of places where you can buy cast iron pans:

Online:

• Amazon: A wide range of cast iron pans are available on Amazon, from various brands such as Lodge, Utopia Kitchen, Cuisinel, and Mueller. Amazon offers free delivery on orders over $35 and also provides used and new options.
• Finex: Finex offers an 8" cast iron skillet with an iconic octagonal shape, an easy-release surface, and speed cool handles. Their skillets are handcrafted, pre-seasoned, and made in the USA. Finex provides free shipping on all orders.

In-Store:

• Home Depot: Home Depot stocks cast iron pans, including the Lodge brand.
• Sur La Table: For in-person shopping, Sur La Table offers the Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, which is a lightweight and affordable option.
• Walmart: Walmart sells the Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet at a reasonable price, although it may not include a handle grip.

Price range of cast iron pans

The price of a cast iron pan can vary depending on the brand, size, and features. Here is a general overview of the price range for cast iron pans:

Budget-Friendly Options:

Lodge is a popular and well-known brand for cast iron pans, offering a range of affordable options. Their products are made in the USA and are known for their durability. You can find Lodge cast iron pans in various sizes, typically ranging from $20 to $50. For example, the Lodge 12-inch cast iron skillet is often praised for its performance and usually costs around $20 to $30.

Other budget-friendly options include the Mainstays 12-inch cast iron skillet, available at Walmart for around $13, and the Valor 12-inch cast iron skillet, which is one of the least expensive options at $16. The Utopia 12.5-inch cast iron skillet is also budget-friendly, usually priced at $17.

Mid-Range Options:

If you're looking for something a little more expensive, there are mid-range options available. For instance, the Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid is priced at $32.98, while the Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned 2-in-1 Cast Iron Pan and Dutch Oven Set costs $55.99.

Premium Options:

For those willing to splurge, there are premium cast iron pans that offer additional features and aesthetics. The Smithey No. 10 Cast-Iron Skillet, for example, is priced at $160 and is known for its ultra-smooth, polished interior and copper color. The Butter Pat Joan 12-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet is another premium option, retailing for $345 and handcrafted in Maryland.

Summary:

To summarize, the price range for cast iron pans can vary from as low as $16 to over $300, depending on the brand, size, and features. Lodge offers a wide range of affordable options, while premium brands like Smithey and Butter Pat can cost several hundred dollars.

Pros and cons of cast iron pans

Pros of Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Here are some of the benefits of using cast iron pans:

• Durability: Cast iron pans are built to last and can withstand decades of use. They are heavy-duty and virtually indestructible.
• Heat retention: Cast iron is excellent at retaining heat, making it ideal for searing, sautéing, braising, and baking. It distributes heat evenly and consistently, resulting in evenly cooked food.
• Non-stick properties: When properly seasoned and cared for, cast iron pans develop a natural non-stick coating, eliminating the need for chemical-laden non-stick finishes.
• Affordability: Cast iron pans are often inexpensive compared to other types of cookware, making them a budget-friendly option.
• Versatility: Cast iron pans can be used on various heat sources, including stovetops, ovens, grills, and even campfires. They are suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques, such as frying, searing, baking, and slow cooking.
• Health benefits: Cooking with cast iron can add iron to your meals, which may be beneficial for those with low iron levels.

Cons of Cast Iron Pans:

Despite their numerous advantages, cast iron pans also have some drawbacks:

• Weight: Cast iron pans are typically heavy, making them awkward to manoeuvre and difficult to lift for some people.
• Slow to heat up: Due to their thickness, cast iron pans take longer to heat up compared to other types of cookware.
• Maintenance: Cast iron pans require regular maintenance, known as seasoning, to prevent rust and ensure non-stick properties. This involves oiling and heating the pan periodically.
• Handle heat: The handles of cast iron pans can get very hot, posing a risk of burns if not handled with oven mitts or pot holders.
• Not suitable for all foods: Cast iron pans may not be ideal for cooking acidic foods, as they can react with the iron and affect the flavour. They are also not recommended for delicate or sticky dishes.

How to care for a cast iron pan

Cast iron pans are durable and can last for generations if properly cared for. Here is a detailed guide on how to care for your cast iron pan:

Washing

Cast iron pans can be washed with mild dish soap and hot water. To remove stubborn food residue, pour hot tap water into the pan while it is still hot and let it soak for a minute or two before washing. Ensure that you dry the pan completely after washing, as lingering moisture can cause rust spots and damage the seasoning. You can dry the pan on low heat on the stove or in the oven.

Seasoning

To maintain the seasoning, rub a thin layer of neutral oil, such as canola or corn oil, on the pan's surface after drying. This will preserve the seasoning and prevent rust.

Maintenance

• Contrary to popular belief, a small amount of soap can be used to clean cast iron cookware. While large amounts of soap can strip the seasoning, it can be easily re-seasoned.
• Avoid using steel wool or metal scrubbers to clean the pan, as these can damage the seasoning. Instead, use a pan scraper or a Lodge Chainmail Scrubber to remove stuck-on food.
• Do not put cast iron pans in the dishwasher, as this will remove the seasoning and cause rust.
• If your pan develops rust, scrub it with warm, soapy water and steel wool, then dry it thoroughly. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the pan and place it upside down in the oven at 450-500°F for one hour. Allow it to cool and repeat as needed until the pan regains its black patina.
• To maintain the seasoning, use your cast iron pan regularly, especially for cooking with fats or oils. This will build up successive layers of seasoning over time.

Storage

Always ensure your cast iron pan is bone dry before storing it. Rust is the enemy of your hard-earned seasoning! You can also place a single paper towel inside the pan during storage to wick away any moisture and protect the pan's surface.

Best cast iron pans for specific purposes

Best overall: Lodge Blacklock Cast Iron Skillet

This cast iron skillet is lighter than most cast iron pans and heats up twice as fast. It has a looped handle that stays cool and is highly ergonomic. It is available in 7-inch, 10.25-inch, 12-inch, and 14.5-inch versions.

Best budget: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

This cast iron skillet is a user-friendly size and is very affordable. It is also pre-seasoned and easy to clean.

Best enameled: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Skillet

This cast iron skillet is known for its high-end design and attention to detail. It is dishwasher-safe and never requires seasoning. It is available in 9-inch, 10.25-inch, and 12-inch versions.

Best splurge: Stargazer Cast Iron Skillet

The Stargazer is a super-smooth, made-in-the-USA cast iron skillet. It is attractive, reliable, and built to last. It is available in 10.5-inch and 12-inch versions.

Best set: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5-Piece Set

This cast iron set includes a 10.5-inch griddle, a 5-quart Dutch oven, and two skillets (8-inch and 10.25-inch). It is incredibly versatile and is compatible with almost any stovetop.

Most versatile: Lodge Reversible Grill/Griddle

This multi-use cast iron griddle has a smooth side for pancakes and a ribbed side for grilling steaks. It is large enough to serve a family but less than an inch thick, making it easy to store.

Best grill pan: Cuisinart Square Grill Pan

This cast iron grill pan is heavy-duty and durable. It is oven- and broiler-safe up to 500 degrees. It is also dishwasher-safe.

Frequently asked questions