What size cast iron pan is best for beginners?

A 10-inch or 12-inch pan is recommended as a versatile starting size that can handle most cooking tasks.

Do new Lodge cast iron pans come preseasoned?

Yes, Lodge pans come pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, so you can start cooking right away.

Can you use soap to wash a cast iron pan?

Yes, you can wash cast iron with dish soap and water. Scrub out any burned crusty bits after each use.

Will the rough surface on a new Lodge pan stay rough?

No, new pans can feel rough due to sand casting, but the surface smooths out over time with use and seasoning.

Best First Cast Iron Pan Recommendations and Tips

Users recommend Lodge cast iron skillets as the best first pan because they are affordable, durable, and come pre-seasoned.

A 10-inch or 12-inch pan is the most versatile starting size, handling a wide range of cooking tasks.

New pans might have a rough surface from sand casting, but they smooth out with regular use and seasoning. Wash them with soap and water, preheat before cooking, and avoid overthinking the maintenance.

Best First Cast Iron Pan Recommendations and Tips — infographic

Users overwhelmingly recommend Lodge cast iron skillets as the best option for a first cast iron pan due to their affordability, quality, and durability.

Recommended Brand

Lodge: Many Users suggest Lodge as the go-to brand for a first cast iron pan because it's reasonably priced, good quality, and comes pre-seasoned. "I suggest starting off with a Lodge. They are reasonably priced, and are great quality."

Ideal Size

10-inch or 12-inch: Users frequently recommend a 10-inch or 12-inch pan as a versatile starting size. "10.25" Lodge for your needs. That was all I had for almost a year and it did everything you mentioned and more."

Key Features

Pre-seasoned: Many first-time cast iron users appreciate that Lodge pans come pre-seasoned, allowing them to start cooking immediately. "Lodge is pre-seasoned, and they use vegetable oil."

Durability: Cast iron pans, especially Lodge, are known for their longevity and ability to withstand extensive use. "It's a hunk of iron. Just buy one in a size you want. Go to an estate sale. Buy a Lodge from a store."

Rough Surface (Initial): New Lodge pans can have a rough surface due to sand casting, but Users note this smooths out with use and seasoning. "The internet makes it seem complicated. It’s really not. Wash it with soap + water then dry it with a towel. That’s it for cleaning."

Usage and Care

Wash with soap: Contrary to some myths, Users advise washing cast iron with soap and water after each use. "Best long term piece of advice is to wash it after use with Dawn dish soap and scrub out burned crusty bits."

Preheat the pan: Proper preheating is crucial for good cooking results and to prevent food from sticking. "Preheat the pan before you do ANYTHING else."

Don't overthink it: Many Users emphasize that cast iron cooking isn't as complicated as it sometimes seems online. "Remember that some of the advice you'll get on this sub is insane. You're using a piece of goddamn cast iron. It'll almost certainly be fine, you don't have to baby it!"

Do you want to know more about seasoning and cleaning a new cast iron pan?

Best for: People looking for an affordable, durable, and low-maintenance entry into cast iron cooking.