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    Home » Tips & Tutorials

    Published: Jan 30, 2021 · Modified: Mar 30, 2021 by Danielle · This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, see our privacy policy.

    Why you should buy a cast iron skillet + 15 recipes to try

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    Breakfast, dessert, pizza, and fajitas cooked in a cast iron skillet with graphic overlay.
    Breakfast, dessert, pizza, and fajitas cooked in a cast iron skillet with graphic overlay.

    Cast iron skillets are a trusted work horse in the kitchen, perfectly preparing everything from breakfast to dessert and lasting a lifetime while doing it. With tips and tricks, plus 15 recipes you can cook today, this post will have you mastering this classic pan in no time!

    Cast iron pan filled with apple pie biscuits.
    Cast iron skillet apple pie biscuits are an all time family favorite because they can be served for breakfast or dessert!

    HI! My name is Danielle and I am a cast iron skillet hoarder. I've been told that is the first step. 😉 For real though. If you saw my pots and pans drawer you would find that I have more cast iron skillets than children. 😆 Hopefully by the end of this post you will feel confident in purchasing a great skillet and will use it regularly.

    Skip to:
    • 💵 Should I buy a cast iron skillet?
    • 🏅Which skillet is best?
    • 🍳 How to season
    • 🧽 How to clean
    • 👨🏼‍🍳 Tips for using
    • 📖 Cast iron skillet recipes
    • 👋🏻 Connect with us!
    • 💬 Comments

    💵 Should I buy a cast iron skillet?

    Without a doubt, the answer is, YES!!

    • Cast iron is pretty much indestructible. In some families cast iron gets passed down from generation to generation. Now that’s my kind of pan. 
    • These skillets are extremely versatile. Cast iron pans can be used to sear, saute, pan-fry, roast, braise, or bake. They cook everything from fajitas to apple pie biscuits with ease. Plus they can be used on the stovetop or in the oven. 
    • They come in a variety of sizes and price points. Luckily, my favorite one is $10. 
    • Because they are so inexpensive, they are perfect for having multiple on hand when hosting a crowd.
    a 12-inch skillet filled with chicken fajitas, lime, avocado, and cilantro.
    A 12-inch skillet will give you the most flexibility when cooking anything from pizza to steak. Great for any size family!

    🏅Which skillet is best?

    For our purposes we are going to talk about traditional cast iron skillets...ones without an enamel coating. Nothing fancy here. That’s a conversation for another day. The answer to this question might depend on your situation, but having at least one 12-inch skillet is a must.

    • Size: Skillets come in a range of sizes. An 8 inch is really too small to be widely used. The 10 and 12 inch skillets are good for searing meat, frying eggs, or making cornbread. Most people will want one (or both🙋🏼‍♀️) of these sizes in their cupboard. My personal favorite is the 12-inch skillet. I find it to be the most versatile when serving a family.
    • Features: All skillets come with one long handle, but many also come with a second smaller handle. Since they are on the heavier side, I find it to be quite helpful to have a handle on each side of the skillet. Also, some come with a pour spout on either side. Again, so nice when you need to pour off excess liquid. 
    • Cost: Entry level skillets run approximately $15-$25. The skillets I go back to again and again are Ozark Trail ones from Walmart. Nothing wrong with the Lodge brand, but these are half the price and, in my experience, work just as well. If you want to look at a higher end version, WIlliam-Sonoma sells this 12-inch skillet for $240. As long as you are willing to do an extra seasoning or two before cooking I would stick with the lower priced options.

    🍳 How to season

    There are two schools of thought when it comes to seasoning a cast iron skillet. Oven and stove top. Personally, I think either works, and when I need to season a skillet I use whichever method is easiest at the time. You can do this with a new skillet or on a skillet whose seasoned surface has worn down. 

    Before seasoning your skillet, wash it thoroughly and dry it completely. Then choose which high smoke point oil that you want to use. Vegetable oil or shortening are the most popular choices, but I have used canola as well. Oils with a low smoke point won't be able to handle the high heat required to season the skillet.

    For the stovetop method, spread a thin layer of oil on the pan, and put it on the stove. Turn the burner on high and heat until the pan begins to smoke. Carefully, apply a second thin layer of oil and allow to cook for another few minutes. Turn off the burner and allow it to cool completely. 

    For the oven method, begin by laying a piece of tinfoil on an oven rack under the area where the skillet will be placed, and preheat the oven to 400º.  Spread a thin layer of oil on the inside, making sure there is no excess dripping off, and place the pan upside down on the oven rack directly above the tinfoil. Bake for one hour. Turn off the oven and allow it to cool completely. If there is any excess oil wipe out with a paper towel.

    It really is as easy as that. A cast iron skillet only needs to be reseasoned after the coating is getting thin.

    A hand holding one soft and fluffy dinner roll made from frozen dough.
    These rolls are equally perfect for weeknight dinners and holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.

    🧽 How to clean

    Cleaning your cast iron skillet will depend on what has been cooked in it. Often it can just be rinsed out with hot water. The one thing you should never do is place a cast iron pan in the dishwasher. If it has some stuck-on food then progress through these steps until you find the one that does the job. 

    Before we get to the steps let’s answer the question, “Can I use dish soap in my cast iron?”. The short answer is yes. However, each time you use soap it removes some of the seasoned surface. This isn’t a problem as long as you are willing to immediately do a seasoning session with the skillet. Ideally, it’s best to rinse (or wipe out) your skillet without resorting to the methods below. Having said that, I use my skillets all the time, and if I need to reseason them it just takes a few minutes and they are good to go.

    1. Try a plastic food scraper. Lodge sells some, but my favorite are these ones by Pampered Chef. Not sure what it is, but they are amazing at removing stuck on bits!
    2. This Scotch-Brite scrubber works wonders on cast iron. If this is used on the pan then a quick reseasoning will be required because the scrubber will take off the coating. 
    3. Take a couple tablespoons of salt and vigorously scrub with either a regular sponge, the scrubber mentioned above, or this cast iron scrubber. Keep in mind this will probably ruin a regular sponge.
    4. If none of the above work, you can fill the pan with a couple inches of water and bring it to a simmer on the stovetop. Once it has simmered for an hour or so, (don't let the water run dry) pour the water out and carefully (the pan is HOT) try using one of the methods above.
    Skillet cake with caramel pecan topping dripping down the side and a bite on a fork.
    If sugar gets stuck to the skillet use the steps above to help it come right off.

    👨🏼‍🍳 Tips for using

    • Be sure to thoroughly dry the skillet each time it is washed. Otherwise it will begin to rust.
    • Use a lid from another set of pots to cover a grilled cheese, quesadilla, or pizza while cooking. It helps the cheese melt before the outside burns.
    • Use it to reheat pizza, chimichangas, and basically anything else with a crispy bottom. Start by heating the pan on stove until quite hot. While the skillet gets to temperature, reheat your food in the microwave until it is approximately 80% hot. Then add it to the hot skillet to crisp the bottom. If desired you can place a heat proof lid over the top of the skillet to help melt any additional cheese.
    • Invest in some silicone handle covers like these. So much easier to serve straight from the skillet when the hot handles are covered.
    Pepperoni pan pizza in a 12-inch skillet with fresh basil.
    If you don't have a silicone handle cover, be sure to wrap the handle of your skillet in a towel before serving.

    📖 Cast iron skillet recipes

    Note: Most of these recipes are pictured in a cast iron skillet. However, there are a couple that are pictured in a 9x13 pan, but can be made in a 12-inch skillet instead.

    Breakfast

    Skillet Apple Pie Dessert Biscuits
    The BEST Skillet Apple Pie Dessert Biscuits are refrigerated or frozen biscuits dipped in butter, coated in brown sugar & cinnamon, topped with an AMAZING 5-ingredient apple pie filling, then baked in a skillet to sticky perfection. A perfect weekend breakfast or dessert!
    Get the recipe!
    An Apple Pie Biscuit on a plate with the skillet in the background.
    Breakfast Egg Bake with Bacon and Green Chilis
    This Breakfast Egg Bake with Bacon and Green Chilis takes the familiar flavors of the Southwest and puts them together in an easy-to-bake casserole. Make-ahead instructions make it perfect for an easy weekend brunch or a special holiday menu!
    Get the recipe!
    Piece of breakfast casserole with bacon and green chilis on a plate.
    • Hash Browns: The heat retention in a cast iron skillet allows for any frozen, refrigerated, or dehydrated hash brown to have a nice crispy bottom. Just be sure to preheat it before adding in the potatoes.

    Side Dish

    Perfect Roasted Corn (w/ frozen corn)
    This Roasted Corn recipe is a quick and easy side dish made with frozen corn caramelized in a savory mix of onions and garlic. It's easy enough for a weeknight and can be made all year long. It's the BEST way to roast corn on the stovetop and will be ready to devour in just 20 minutes.
    Get the recipe!
    Whole corn kernels in cast iron skillet with a wooden spatula.
    Easy Green Beans Almondine
    Green Beans Almondine is a fast and easy side dish using frozen green beans, fresh lemon, and toasted almonds. Both flavorful and healthy, this recipe is a win-win that can be done in under 15 minutes!
    Get the recipe!
    Green beans almondine with almonds and a lemon on a platter
    Cheesy Refried Beans Casserole
    This Cheesy Refried Beans Casserole is the perfect recipe when you want a flavorful Mexican side dish or an easy refried beans dip! It's super easy to make with canned refried beans, seasonings, and a gooey layer of cheese on top. Whether baked or made in the slow cooker, it's perfect for serving at your next game day party or family weeknight dinner.
    Get the recipe!
    Skillet of baked refried beans with cheese on top and tortilla chips on side of pan.

    Bread

    Easiest Rhodes Rolls (Frozen Dinner Rolls w/ Butter and Herbs)
    These Rhodes Rolls are the easiest rolls ever! Once they rise, all you need is 5 minutes of prep time and a short bake in the oven. Out pops perfectly golden brown, buttery, soft pillows of dough sprinkled with salt and herbs. It's magic! With so many flavor variations these are irresistible.
    Get the recipe!
    Baked Rhodes roll with butter and herbs being held in a hand.
    Jiffy Jalapeno Cornbread
    With 5 simple ingredients a box of Jiffy mix gets transformed into Jiffy Jalapeno Cornbread that has a mild kick from slices of jalapeno and cheesy goodness from sharp cheddar. It's a moist, sweet, and spicy bread that is cooked in a cast iron skillet (or baking dish) for a delicious addition to your favorite meal!
    Get the recipe!
    Overhead view of cornbread with jalapenos and cilantro on the counter.

    Dinner

    Sizzling Skillet Chicken Fajitas (w/ BEST Marinade)
    Sizzling Skillet Chicken Fajitas are truly restaurant-worthy! Soak the chicken in a super flavorful marinade, then cook in a cast iron skillet to create that signature seared chicken that’s still perfectly tender and juicy. Mix with charred bell peppers and onions, then pile it high on a soft tortilla for the ultimate Mexican dinner. After marinating, it can all be done in under 20 minutes! 
    Get the recipe!
    Overhead of cast iron skillet with chicken fajitas and blue towel.
    The Best Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe
    The Best Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe is an easy, no-knead pizza that only takes 20 minutes of hands-on time! Bake in a cast iron skillet for a deeply golden, crispy crust with a chewy inside and gooey cheesy top. It’s better than Pizza Hut pan pizza and straight from your own oven!
    Get the recipe!
    Whole pizza sprinkled with basil.
    BEST Pork Tenderloin Recipe (Maple Glazed!)
    The Best Pork Tenderloin Recipe ever makes moist, tender pork covered in a sweet and sticky maple syrup sauce. It’s an addictively amazing main dish that gets rave reviews every time! Plus it is the perfect dish for entertaining or the holidays. 
    Get the recipe!
    Pork tenderloin on serving platter with maple sauce

    Dessert

    Skillet Apple Pie Dessert Biscuits
    The BEST Skillet Apple Pie Dessert Biscuits are refrigerated or frozen biscuits dipped in butter, coated in brown sugar & cinnamon, topped with an AMAZING 5-ingredient apple pie filling, then baked in a skillet to sticky perfection. A perfect weekend breakfast or dessert!
    Get the recipe!
    An Apple Pie Biscuit on a plate with the skillet in the background.
    Triple Berry Cobbler
    Bursting with fresh berry flavor, this cobbler layers an easy 4 ingredient berry filling with a store bought cake mix. Best of all no mixer required. Get ready to awaken memories of summertime!
    Get the recipe!
    Easy berry cobbler and ice cream on a spoon.
    EASY Apple Crisp Recipe
    This easy Apple Crisp recipe is the ideal fall dessert! Fresh apples coated in sugar, piled high with a cinnamon oat crumble topping, and baked to golden brown perfection. Finish it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert in only 15 minutes of hands-on time.
    Get the recipe!
    Overhead bowl of apple crisp with scoop of vanilla ice cream
    The Best Cast Iron Skillet Cake
    This truly is the best Cast Iron Skillet Cake recipe! A moist buttermilk cake baked in a skillet until golden brown, then topped with a gooey pecan praline topping and served warm. It’s super delicious, easy to make, and great for serving a crowd!
    Get the recipe!
    Overhead of cast iron skillet cake with praline topping.

    👋🏻 Connect with us!

    If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and star rating to let us know how it is! We’d also love to connect with you on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest. Tag @borrowedbites or hashtag #borrowedbites to show us your food!

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Christal pearson says

      November 02, 2021 at 3:39 pm

      I just served your cast iron skillet cornbread. It turned out beautiful ...moist and sweet. We absutley love it!!! Cant wait to try more of your recipies!! Thank you!

      Reply
      • Danielle says

        November 02, 2021 at 3:52 pm

        Gotta love that cast iron skillet! Thank you so much for taking the time to let us know!

        Reply

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    Hi! We are Danielle and Misty: a mom and daughter with a serious passion for seeking out the best recipes to serve again and again to those we love. With a mix of everyday favorites and indulgent weekend fare there is something here for you and yours as you develop your own family traditions.

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