With their durable construction and superior heat retention, cast iron skillets are a culinary powerhouse, beloved by chefs and home cooks alike.
They’re ideal for searing steaks, frying chicken, and even baking cornbread, easily transitioning from stovetop to oven.
Beyond their functional benefits, cast iron skillets also possess a certain rustic charm that can elevate the aesthetic of any kitchen.
Their classic design and deep black colour add a touch of elegance to any table setting, making them an excellent choice for serving dishes family-style.
The best cast iron skillets to buy in Australia 2024
Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, a cast iron skillet is a kitchen essential that is sure to impress.
Here, we’ve gathered some of the best to shop now in Australia, so you can cook a wide range of dishes at home with ease.
01
Le Creuset Signature cast iron round skillet 20cm
$260 at Myer
This 20cm skillet is designed for searing, braising and sauces, all the while heating evenly and sealing in moisture, making it perfect for smaller meals.
“The best thing I have ever bought,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “A perfect size for one, or two, I cannot stop raving about it. So easy to use and keep clean – its fantastic! I highly recommend.”
Colours: Azure blue, bamboo green, cerise, coastal blue, meringue, sage green, satin black and volcanic
Material: Enamelled cast iron
Key features:
- Even heat distribution
- Black enamel interior resists staining and wear
- Ideal for searing, braising and sauces
- Easy-to-use handle design
- Suitable for hand wash or dishwasher
- Made in France
Also available at:
- $260 at Kitchen Warehouse
- $260 at MiniMax
02
Lodge cast iron skillet 26cm
$69.95 (usually $104.95) at Kitchen Warehouse
Featuring an assist handle for great control and an easy-grip handle for lifting or hanging storage when not in use, the Lodge cast iron skillet provides excellent heat distribution and retention for consistent, even cooking.
79 per cent of 67,086 reviewers on Amazon give this skillet five stars, praising the quality, value and performance. They mention it’s a solid pan, cooks well and is a good investment that will last for years to come.
Material: Cast iron
Key features:
- Pre-seasoned
- Assist handle for easy manoeuvring
- Two side lips for mess-free pouring
- Unmatched heat retention and even heating
- Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe
- Durable and versatile for various cooking methods
Also available at:
- $72.99 (usually $104.95) at Robins Kitchen
- $72.99 (usually $104.95) at House
- $88.04 (usually $104.95) at Amazon
- $89.95 (usually $104.95) at MiniMax
- $104.95 at David Jones
03
Soga round cast iron frying pan skillet 26cm
$70.50 at hardtofind
This round cast iron sizzle pan excels at maintaining consistent temperatures and even cooking, and comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil baked into the surface.
Material: Cast iron
Key features:
- Pre-seasoned
- Suitable for induction cooktops
- Versatile: sear, sauté, bake, broil, fry or grill
- Easy care: hand wash, dry and rub with cooking oil
- Durable and ideal for home, restaurant, or camping use
Also available at:
- $52.50 at Big W
04
Victoria seasoned cast iron skillet 30cm
$89.95 (usually $134.95) at Kitchen Warehouse
The Victoria seasoned cast iron skillet is great for everyday cooking – whether you’re sautéing veggies, frying up a steak, or baking a frittata. Crafted in Colombia, it boasts impressive heat retention, keeping your food evenly cooked and perfectly browned. With handy dual pouring spouts for mess-free serving and a curved handle with a hanging hole, this skillet is a long-lasting kitchen essential.
Material: High-quality seasoned cast iron
Key features:
- Great heat retention and even cooking
- Pre-seasoned with organic flaxseed oil for easy food release
- Features dual pouring spouts and a curved handle with a hanging hole
- Suitable for all cooktops, oven, grill and campfire use
Also available at:
- $89.95 at Woolworths
05
Smith & Nobel Raw cast iron skillet 30cm
$35.99 at Harris Scarfe
With its durable construction and versatile design, you’ll be using this skillet for many years. You can achieve the fluffiest omelette, bake the perfect pie or just have the ideal sear on your steaks.
Material: Tough and durable cast iron
Key features:
- Oven safe up to 200 degrees
- Grill and open fire safe
- Non-stick when seasoned
- Loop handle for ease of moving and storing
- Suitable for all stovetops, including induction
Why is it better to use a cast iron skillet?
Using a cast iron skillet has several advantages that make it a popular choice in the kitchen. For starters, these pans heat evenly across the surface, which means your food will cook uniformly without hot spots.
Cast iron also retains heat exceptionally well, and over time, a properly seasoned cast iron skillet develops a natural non-stick surface – meaning you can cook with less oil and still prevent food from sticking.
They’re also incredibly durable and can last for generations with proper care, can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, from frying and sautéing to baking and roasting, and are relatively easy to clean afterwards.
Is cooking in a cast iron skillet healthy?
Cooking in a cast iron skillet can be quite healthy. It’s a natural, chemical-free cookware option that can add a small amount of iron to your diet, which is beneficial for those with iron deficiencies.
However, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional for personalised dietary advice.
Cast iron pans also promote even cooking without the need for excessive oils or fats. Just be sure to maintain proper seasoning to prevent rust and avoid using it for cooking highly acidic foods that could affect the seasoning.
What shouldn’t be cooked in cast iron?
Avoid cooking highly acidic foods, like tomatoes and citrus, in cast iron as they can strip away the seasoning and potentially affect the flavour of your food.
Also, steer clear of cooking delicate dishes that may stick or require a non-reactive surface.
Lastly, avoid soaking cast iron in water or using harsh detergents, as this can damage the seasoning and lead to rust.
Related articles:
- Stainless steel cookware sets that prove why they’re the superior kitchen essential
- Sauté like a professional chef with these best-selling cookware sets
- 7 quality non-stick cookware pieces for the home chef
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