Our Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet Review

Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet: An In-Depth Review

If you’ve been searching for the perfect skillet to use for all your cooking needs, you’ve probably come across the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet. Lodge has long been known for producing high-quality, durable cast iron cookware, and this skillet is no exception. But before you dive in and make a purchase, it’s always a good idea to weigh the pros and cons, especially if you’re new to cast iron cooking. In this detailed review, I’ll walk you through the features, benefits, and potential downsides of the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet, and by the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether this classic piece of cookware belongs in your kitchen.

Key Features

1. Pre-Seasoned and Ready to Use

The Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet comes pre-seasoned right out of the box, meaning you don’t have to worry about seasoning it yourself before first use. The factory seasoning is made with 100% vegetable oil, which creates a natural, non-stick surface that improves over time with regular use.

Now, while this is a great feature, I recommend doing a quick re-season yourself after the first few uses to really build up that non-stick layer. Cast iron does get better the more you use it, but adding that extra layer of seasoning will give you a smoother cooking experience right from the start.

2. Heat Retention and Even Heating

One of the biggest reasons people love cast iron is its ability to retain and distribute heat evenly. Whether you’re searing a steak, frying up some eggs, or baking cornbread, you’ll notice how evenly the Lodge 12 Inch Skillet heats up, which results in better-cooked meals.

I’ve used this skillet for everything from browning meat to cooking up some perfectly crispy hash browns, and it has never let me down. However, it does take a bit of time to preheat compared to thinner pans like stainless steel, so you’ll need to be patient. Once it’s hot, though, it stays hot, which makes it perfect for searing and frying.

3. Versatility in Cooking

One of the main reasons I love the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is its versatility. This skillet works on all cooking surfaces—gas, electric, induction, and even over an open flame or in the oven. You can go from stovetop to oven without missing a beat, making it perfect for dishes that require a sear and bake, like cast iron skillet pizza or pan-seared steaks.

You can also use this skillet for frying, sautéing, baking, broiling, and even grilling. It’s especially handy for making one-pan meals since you can start the cooking process on the stove and then finish it off in the oven.

4. Durability and Longevity

When cared for properly, cast iron cookware like the Lodge 12 Inch Skillet can last a lifetime. That’s one of the main selling points for investing in a good piece of cast iron. This skillet can handle the toughest cooking tasks without warping or showing signs of wear. Over time, the natural patina only improves, making your skillet even more non-stick and easier to clean.

That said, cast iron does require proper care. You’ll need to clean it with hot water (and a small amount of mild detergent) and make sure to dry it thoroughly to avoid rusting. I like to give mine a light coat of oil after each use to protect it and keep it in top shape. If you do experience rust, here’s how to fix a rusty cast iron skillet.

What to Watch Out For

1. Weight

At around 8 pounds, this Lodge skillet is not lightweight. If you’re not used to handling heavier cookware, it might take some getting used to. But that weight is also what contributes to its excellent heat retention and durability, so it’s a trade-off.

I will say that if you have weaker wrists or hands, flipping or moving the skillet around the stove might be a challenge. Personally, I’ve gotten used to the weight over time, but I know it can be a bit much for some folks.

2. Handles

The main handle on the Lodge 12 Inch skillet can get very hot, especially during longer cooking sessions. It’s cast iron, after all, so heat travels through the entire skillet. I always recommend having a good oven mitt or silicone handle cover nearby to avoid burns. Lodge does sell silicone handle covers, which are a great accessory to pick up if you’re planning on using the skillet regularly.

There’s also a helper handle on the opposite side of the skillet, which makes lifting and carrying it a little easier. This helper handle is a welcomed feature, especially given the weight of the skillet and especially when it’s loaded with food.

3. Care and Maintenance

Cast iron cookware requires a bit more care than non-stick pans or stainless steel. You can’t just throw it in the dishwasher and call it a day. You’ll need to clean the Lodge skillet by hand, using hot water and a stiff brush. Avoid soaking in soapy water, as it can strip the seasoning and cause it to rust. After cleaning, dry the skillet completely to prevent rust, and add a thin layer of oil to protect the surface.

While this maintenance routine might seem like a hassle to some, I personally find it satisfying. There’s something almost therapeutic about taking care of a cast iron skillet and knowing that with the right care, it’ll outlast me.

Cooking Performance

The Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet excels in the kitchen, delivering consistently excellent results across a wide range of cooking tasks. It’s especially good for searing and frying thanks to its excellent heat retention, but it can also handle more delicate cooking like frying eggs or making sauces. The key here is learning how to manage the heat—cast iron takes longer to heat up but retains heat well, so you don’t need to cook at high temperatures to get good results. It makes the best stove top burgers, too!

One thing to keep in mind is that the skillet can take some time to build up a truly non-stick surface. The factory seasoning is a great start, but regular use and re-seasoning are what will really make this skillet shine. I’ve found that after a few months of regular use, it becomes much more non-stick and easier to cook with.

The Verdict

Overall, the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is a great addition to any kitchen, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. It offers excellent cooking performance, versatility, and durability, making it a true workhorse in the kitchen. While the weight and care routine might not appeal to everyone, those willing to put in the time and effort will be rewarded with a skillet that can handle just about anything.

Pros:

• Pre-seasoned and ready to use
• Excellent heat retention and even cooking
• Works on all cooking surfaces, including oven and open flame
• Extremely durable and long-lasting with proper care
• Versatile for searing, frying, baking, and more

Cons:

• Heavy, which might be difficult for some to handle
• Requires proper care and maintenance (hand-washing, oiling)
• The handle gets very hot, requiring a mitt or cover

If you’re ready to invest in a versatile, durable piece of cookware that’ll last for years, the Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is hard to beat. Just be prepared to give it a little extra TLC, and it’ll serve you well for a lifetime.