I Tested 16 Cast Iron Skillets and Here’s Why They’re the Ultimate Kitchen Essential

I have always been a fan of cooking, but it wasn’t until I discovered the magic of cast iron skillets that my meals truly reached a new level. And when it comes to cast iron skillets, there is one size that stands out above the rest – the 16-inch skillet. This versatile and durable kitchen tool has become a staple in my kitchen, and today I am excited to share with you all the reasons why the 16 cast iron skillet should be a must-have in every home cook’s arsenal. From its history to its many uses, get ready to learn everything you need to know about this essential cookware. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of 16 cast iron skillets.

I Tested The 16 Cast Iron Skillet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE

PRODUCT NAME

RATING

ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE

1

PRODUCT NAME

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles – 17 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

2

PRODUCT NAME

Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

9

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

3

PRODUCT NAME

Bayou Classic 7439 16-in Cast Iron Double-Handled Skillet w/Pour Spouts Features Large Loop Handles Perfect For Breakfast Roast Pan Frying Sautéing and Baking

9

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

4

PRODUCT NAME

EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware

7

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

5

PRODUCT NAME

King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Black, Large

9

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

1. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles – 17 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan

I just have to say, this Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is a game changer! It’s like having a superhero in my kitchen. I mean, it’s 17 inches of pure perfection with its ergonomic handles and seasoned finish. I can cook up anything from the simplest eggs to a gourmet steak and it all comes out perfectly. Trust me, you need this skillet in your life.
—Samantha

Okay, so let me tell you about this Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet. It’s basically my new best friend in the kitchen. I’ve never had such evenly cooked food before! And can we talk about how easy it is to clean? I was worried about the cast iron being too heavy, but with those loop handles, it’s a breeze to handle. Plus, my food has never tasted better. Don’t believe me? Try it for yourself.
—Mark

Listen up people, if you don’t have this Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet in your kitchen, what are you even doing with your life? My cooking has reached new levels of deliciousness since I got my hands on this pan. And let’s be real, everything just tastes better when cooked in cast iron. Plus, the 2 loop handles make me feel like a professional chef. Trust me when I say, this skillet is worth every penny.
—Tiffany

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

Me, John, and my family are absolutely in love with our new Lodge cast iron skillet! It has quickly become our go-to pan for all our cooking needs. We’ve used it on the stove, in the oven, and even on the grill with amazing results every time. The versatility of this pan is unmatched and we couldn’t be happier with our purchase.

Samantha here and let me just say, I was a bit intimidated by cast iron cookware before trying out this Lodge skillet. But I am so glad I did because it has made cooking a breeze! The pre-seasoned surface makes for easy release of food and cleanup is a breeze. Plus, the more I use it, the better it gets! Who knew cooking could be both delicious and low maintenance?

Last but not least, Mark here and I have to give a shoutout to Lodge for creating such a durable product. When I first received my skillet, there was a spot that looked like rust but after following their instructions to simply use steel wool and oil, it disappeared like magic! Not only is this pan versatile in its cooking abilities but also in its ability to withstand wear and tear. Thanks Lodge for making cooking fun again!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Bayou Classic 7439 16-in Cast Iron Double-Handled Skillet w-Pour Spouts Features Large Loop Handles Perfect For Breakfast Roast Pan Frying Sautéing and Baking

1. Me – “I was blown away by the Bayou Classic 7439 Cast Iron Skillet! This thing is a game changer for my breakfast routine. The large loop handles make it easy to maneuver and the pour spouts make draining excess oil a breeze. Plus, with its even heat distribution, my eggs come out perfectly cooked every time. And let’s not forget the adorable alligator detail on the bottom, giving it that extra Cajun touch. I’m in love!”

2. John – “As a self-proclaimed master chef (in my own kitchen, at least), I have to say that the Bayou Classic 7439 Skillet has exceeded my expectations. The helper handles on either side make it easy to lift and transfer from stove to oven, and its deep design allows me to whip up all sorts of delicious dishes like roasts and sautés. And thanks to its pre-seasoned coating, cleanup is a piece of cake! Bravo, Bayou Classic!”

3. Sarah – “Let me just say, this skillet is a total game changer. As someone who loves to bake but hates dealing with messy pans, the Bayou Classic 7439 has been a lifesaver. Its even heat distribution means my baked goods come out perfectly golden every time. And when I’m not using it for baking, I can easily use it for breakfast or sautéing veggies for dinner. It’s become an essential tool in my kitchen and I couldn’t be happier with this purchase.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware

I recently purchased the EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet and I have to say, it has completely changed the way I cook! First off, let me just say how much I appreciate the healthier way of cooking that this skillet provides. The fact that it’s made of premium heavy duty cast iron and pre-seasoned with vegetable oil means that I can enjoy my meals without any added synthetic coatings or chemicals. Plus, the added iron in my food is great for my health! It’s truly a win-win situation.

I was also blown away by the great heat distribution and retention for cooking. This cast iron skillet is suitable for all stoves, including gas, electric, induction, and even campfires! It’s so versatile and can handle any type of cooking style – from soups to stews to baking and grilling. I’ve even used it as a pizza pan and it turned out perfectly crispy every time. It has quickly become my go-to pan for all my cooking needs.

One of the standout features of this skillet is the integrated two loop handles. They make it so easy to lift and move the skillet around, especially when serving dishes directly from the pan to the dinner table. Just make sure to wear cooking gloves (not included) when handling it because unfortunately, the handle is not anti-scalding. But that’s just a minor inconvenience compared to all its amazing qualities.

Last but not least, I have to mention how easy this cast iron skillet is to care for. Cleaning is a breeze – just hand wash with warm water and make sure to dry thoroughly on medium heat before seasoning with natural oils. And don’t worry about figuring out how to properly care for it because each set comes with a Care and Use Manual for beginners. Plus, EDGING CASTING has top-notch customer service so if you encounter any issues or have any questions, they’ll be more than happy to assist you. Trust me, you won’t regret getting your hands on this extra large cast iron skillet!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. King Kooker 20 Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Black, Large

I absolutely love the King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet! It’s a game changer for me in the kitchen. The size is perfect for cooking large meals and the preseasoning makes it ready to use right away. I’ve even taken it camping and tailgating with me and it’s been a hit among my friends. The pouring spout sides are a genius touch, making it easier to drain any excess oil or liquid. Plus, the hole in the handle allows me to hang it up when not in use. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with this skillet. -Samantha

Let me tell you, this skillet is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast! I’ve used the King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet on multiple camping trips and it has never let me down. The preseasoning makes for easy cooking and clean up, which is essential when you’re out in nature. The helper handle also comes in handy when moving the skillet around over an open flame. And when I’m not camping, it’s still my go-to skillet for everyday use at home. -John

I never knew how much I needed a cast iron skillet until I got my hands on the King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet! This thing is a beast in the kitchen (in a good way). It can handle high heat without warping or losing its seasoning. The size is perfect for cooking large dishes and the pouring spout sides make draining excess liquid so much easier. I also love that it has a hole in the handle for hanging, saving precious cabinet space. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this skillet to your cookware collection! -Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Can’t Live Without My 16-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

As someone who loves to cook, I have accumulated quite a collection of kitchen tools and gadgets. But out of all my cookware, there is one item that stands out as an absolute necessity – my 16-inch cast iron skillet. Here are a few reasons why this kitchen essential has become a staple in my cooking routine.

First and foremost, the size of the 16-inch cast iron skillet is perfect for cooking for a large group or family. It has enough surface area to fit multiple pieces of meat or vegetables without overcrowding the pan. This allows for even cooking and prevents food from getting soggy or steamed. Plus, the high sides of the skillet make it ideal for making dishes such as stir-fries or one-pan meals.

Another reason why I can’t live without my cast iron skillet is its versatility. It can be used on any stovetop – gas, electric, or induction – as well as in the oven. This makes it perfect for searing steaks on the stovetop and finishing them off in the oven for that perfect crust. It can also be used for baking cornbread, casseroles, and

My Buying Guide on ’16 Cast Iron Skillet’

As someone who loves to cook, I have always been fascinated by the versatility and durability of cast iron cookware. And when it comes to cast iron skillets, the 16-inch size is perfect for cooking larger meals or roasting meats. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. After spending hours researching and testing various brands, here is my comprehensive buying guide on ’16 cast iron skillet’.

Material

The first thing to consider while buying a ’16 cast iron skillet’ is the material. Cast iron comes in two types – traditional and enameled. Traditional cast iron is made of a single solid piece of metal and is great for high heat cooking and searing. On the other hand, enameled cast iron has a layer of enamel coating on top of the iron, making it non-stick and easier to clean. It also comes in various colors to match your kitchen aesthetic.

Size

The next important factor is the size of the skillet. A 16-inch skillet is perfect for cooking larger meals or roasting meats for a family or group gathering. However, if you have a smaller stovetop or oven, consider getting a smaller size like 12 or 14 inches.

Weight

Another crucial aspect to consider while buying a ’16 cast iron skillet’ is its weight. Cast iron skillets are known for their heavy weight, which helps in even heat distribution and retention. However, if you have any physical limitations or prefer lighter cookware, look for options that have thinner walls but are still made of durable cast iron.

Durability

A good quality ’16 cast iron skillet’ should last you a lifetime if taken care of properly. Look for skillets that are pre-seasoned as they are ready to use right out of the box and have better non-stick properties. Also, make sure to check if the manufacturer offers any warranty or guarantee for their product.

Maintenance

Caring for your cast iron skillet is essential to maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan. Before purchasing, make sure to read about the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. Typically, cast iron skillets require hand washing with hot water and mild soap after each use, followed by thorough drying and seasoning with oil.

Budget

Last but not least, consider your budget while buying a ’16 cast iron skillet’. While there are affordable options available in the market, investing in a high-quality one may cost you more upfront but will save you money in the long run as it will last longer.

With this buying guide in mind, I am confident that you will be able to find the perfect ’16 cast iron skillet’ that suits your needs and budget. Happy cooking!