Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Review – 6 Reasons Why It Is Popular

It’s hard to ignore the popularity of the Lodge cast iron skillet. It has become a favorite for many cooking enthusiasts, and we bought one to test its efficacy. 

This article outlines a personal experience with a Lodge cast iron skillet 12 inches. It highlights its performance in the following areas:

• Nonstick properties
• Ease of cleaning
• Heat diffusivity 
• Design 

Read on for a detailed lodge cast iron skillet review. Is it worth the investment? Let’s find out.

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet – Brief Overview

If you’re about to buy this skillet, first read this comprehensive Lodge cast iron skillet review to make an informed decision. 

Lodge Cast Iron Manufacturer

Lodge cast iron skillet is, without a doubt, the most popular skillet in the United States. The skillet is manufactured by Lodge Manufacturing Company. 

This company is a pioneer in the cookware industry. It was started in 1896 by Joseph Lodge, and it has become synonymous with cast iron cookware. 

Its state-of-the-art facility at South Pittsburg helps in the error-free refining of cast iron. As such, you can be sure that Lodge cast iron skillets are durable. 

What is Cast Iron?

When you think about cast iron, you should think of a furnace-melted iron that contains several other elements such as carbon, silicon, sulfur, and manganese. 

It is formed by smelting iron ore and mixing it with scrap metals and other alloys. The molten mixture is poured into molds and allowed to solidify into the cast iron skillets and pans. 

This treatment makes the cast iron non-malleable, hard, and brittle. These critical features guarantee top-notch functionality durability of your cast iron skillet. 

Compared to steel and aluminum cookware, the Lodge cast iron skillet offers the following benefits:

• Exceptional ability to retain heat, making it ideal for searing
• Develops nonstick properties with time

However, the ability of cast iron to heat up fast is limited. It might take you longer to heat the skillet before you start cooking!

How to Season Cast Iron Skillet

If you look at the adverts, you’re likely to be misled that the Lodge cast iron skillet does not require seasoning!

Well, I found this to be untrue.

Initially, it would be best if you seasoned your cast iron skillet to prevent food from sticking on the pan’s surface. 

To achieve this, you should place the pan on the stovetop and let it heat before adding oil (vegetable oil such as canola is best).

Let the oil heat for some time until you can see some smoke coming out of the pan. Remove the pan from the stovetop and let it cool. 

For a detailed seasoning procedure, you should read here.

Features of Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

This skillet has several unique features that have endeared it to cooking enthusiasts in the US and beyond. They include:

1. Classic Design

Lodge cast iron skillet is built with an elegant design that allows comfortability. While it’s relatively heavy compared to steel and aluminum cookware, it has an ergonomic design that eases the lifting and handling when cooking.

The skillet has a short handle that guarantees a firm grip. When you’re cooking a lot of meals, and you need better control, then you’ll use the assist handle directly opposite the main handle.

When you order the Lodge cast iron skillet, you will also get a handle holder to help you lift the pan without burning your hands.

2. Versatility 

Lodge cast iron skillet is one of the most versatile kitchen appliances.

You’ll cook virtually anything in it! Be it frying eggs, preparing pancakes, or making grilled cheese.

The pan is conveniently deep to allow you to cook anything you want without spillage. Using the Lodge cast iron 12-inch skillet, you can prepare breakfast for your entire family without a hassle.

3. A Great Pouring Lip Addition

The feature helps to drain grease or reduce your oil without messing the outer side of the pan. It reduces spillage and makes cleaning a breeze.

4. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Finish

Far from it, the Lodge cast iron skillet is not elegant and classy. The finish is rugged and relatively dull.

I wouldn’t say I liked the finish of the Lodge cast iron skillet. It comes with a relatively rugged surface and irregular edges.

While these misgivings do not affect the cooking in any way, I feel that the pan should have regular edges and a relatively smoother finish.

5. Different Sizes for Flexibility 

Lodge cast iron comes in different sizes to allow you to choose the ideal one for your needs. If you live iron, we recommend that you buy the Lodge cast iron 8-inch skillet. 

However, you can be sure that the Lodge cast iron 12-inch skillet will offer you the versatility, functionality, and flexibility you’ll ever need in a skillet. 

Besides the two sizes, the Lodge cast comes in 3.5 inches, 6.5 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 10.25 inches, 13.25 inches, and 15 inches.

6. Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning the Lodge cast iron skillet is a breeze. You will only require warm water and a non-abrasive cleaning towel.

Wipe the skillet after use and apply a layer of oil before storage.

Always avoid using soap during the cleaning process.

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Nonstick Property Test 

The lodge skillet is pre-seasoned – meaning that it is covered with a layer of oil that prevents food from sticking on the pan’s surface.

While this feature is used for marketing this pan, it is not entirely true.

If you cook with the pan before seasoning, you’ll likely be disappointed!

However, you can resolve this problem by following the following simple steps:

• After unpacking the skillet, you should clean it with hot water
• After cleaning, you should apply a thin layer of canola oil (or any other oil)
• Place the pan in an oven and heat it to 450 degrees
• Heat it until you can see some smoke, then remove it and wipe it

Every time you’re through cooking, you should apply a thin layer of oil before storing your skillet. 

Additionally, you should avoid using soap when cleaning your cast iron skillet since it’ll interfere with the seasoning.

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Heating Ability

If you’re impatient, then you may not like this cast iron skillet. It is relatively a poor conductor of heat, and you can be sure that you’ll wait for several minutes before it can heat up.

Fortunately, the wait will be worth it!

Once the skillet heats up, it retains the heat for long. This property makes it the best skillet for searing. It will continually heat your meals, ensuring evenly done meals. 

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Review – Final Verdict 

If you’re looking for quality, then the Lodge cast iron skillet will not disappoint. This skillet is made out of high-quality cast iron that is durable and efficient.

However, the pre-seasoned feature of the skillet is not always true. You’ll need to season it again immediately after you unbox. Cleaning the pan is simple, and its overall maintenance routine is a breeze.

Overall, we recommend the Lodge cast iron 12-inch skillet. It is one of the best cookware you can have in your kitchen. The few challenges with the skillet are easily surmountable. 

You’ll be guaranteed of performance and durability. However, always ensure that you avoid putting a hot pot into cold water directly to avoid warping.

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet – Frequently Asked Questions