9 Durable Cast-Iron Skillets to Make Your Best Meals Anywhere

Some of the best cast iron skillets are those that are broken in and seasoned. You can hunt for the antique cast iron skillets and pick them up at a hefty price or you can check out our picks for the cast iron cookware. The only caveat is you have to season it yourself. Seasoning your cast iron pans is pretty simple and the upkeep is even easier.

Traditional cast iron pans are made from molten iron and are poured into a mold. Once the molding process is complete, they shave down the trim pieces and prepare them for the finishing process. Cast iron cookware comes in many shapes and sizes as well as styles. The popular cookware can be plain cast iron or enameled cast iron, where a special coating is placed on the surface. As far as shapes, you can have Dutch ovens, which are pans with a lid or you can have various types of skillets.

Cast iron skillets are perfect for cooking because they retain heat better and have an even heat distribution during the cooking process. Cast iron skillets can be used on the stovetop, the oven, and even over an open flame, outdoors of course. Over time and with proper care, your cast iron skillet will become more and more seasoned and nonstick.

When cleaning cast iron skillets, it's best to always be hand washed and only use mild soap and water. There are special brushes and cleaning tools to help maintain the seasoned cast iron without removing the protective coating you have built up.