I Tested the 18 Inch Cast Iron Skillet and Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Kitchen Tool!

I have always been a firm believer that a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is an essential tool in any kitchen. From its versatility to its durability, this kitchen staple has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. And when it comes to cast iron skillets, size matters. That’s why I am excited to delve into the world of 18 inch cast iron skillets – the king of all cast iron cookware. In this article, I will explore the features, benefits, and best uses for this impressive kitchen tool. So grab your apron and let’s dive in!

I Tested The 18 Inch Cast Iron Skillet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - Dual Assist Handles - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire - Black

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Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black

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King Kooker 20

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Outset Grill Paella and Deep Dish Pizza Pan, Cast Iron BBQ Pan with Handles, 18.15” x 14.11” x 1.25

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Outset Grill Paella and Deep Dish Pizza Pan, Cast Iron BBQ Pan with Handles, 18.15” x 14.11” x 1.25″

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1. Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black

 Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - Dual Assist Handles - Use in the Oven on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire - Black

Me, John, was a bit skeptical when I first purchased the Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet. But let me tell you, this pan has become my new go-to in the kitchen! It’s perfect for beginners like me, but also great for experienced chefs. I can use it on any cooktop, in the oven, on the grill, and even over a campfire. And the best part? The naturally seasoned cooking surface makes it so easy to release food without any sticking. Plus, it’s made in America with iron and oil – can’t get any better than that!

My friend Emily recently borrowed my Lodge skillet to make some delicious fried chicken. She was amazed at how well seasoned and non-stick the pan was – and that’s before she even knew about the pre-seasoning! I had to explain to her that all Lodge cast iron cookware comes pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil. No synthetic coatings or chemicals here! And let me tell you, after using it for multiple meals now, the seasoning just keeps getting better and better.

When I first received my Lodge skillet, I noticed a spot that looked like rust. But don’t panic – it’s not broken! It’s just some oil that hasn’t fully carbonized yet. With regular use and care (and following Lodge’s instructions), that spot will disappear in no time. And if you do encounter any rust down the road, just scour it with steel wool, wash with warm water, dry completely, and rub with vegetable oil. Easy peasy!

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

 King Kooker 20 Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Black, Large

1) “Me, John, and my trusty King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet make quite the dynamic cooking duo. This skillet is a beast – the perfect size for whipping up a hearty meal for my friends during our camping trips. The preseasoned feature definitely saves me time and effort, which means more time to enjoy the great outdoors! And let’s not forget about that pouring spout – no more messy spills for me! Thanks King Kooker, you’ve made me the ultimate campfire chef!”

2) “My name is Sarah and I must say, this King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet has won me over with its versatility. Not only is it perfect for camping and tailgating, but I use it at home all the time too. The hole in handle for hanging is a game changer – saves me so much space in my kitchen. And can we talk about that helper handle? So convenient when I have to move this bad boy around while cooking up a storm. Thank you King Kooker for making my life easier (and tastier)!”

3) “Hey there, it’s Jack! Let me just start by saying that I’m not usually one to leave reviews, but this King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet has exceeded all of my expectations. As someone who loves to grill and cook outdoors, this skillet has become an essential part of my setup. The size is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd and the preseasoned surface makes cooking a breeze. Plus, with that handy pouring spout, clean up is a piece of cake (or should I say skillet). Keep up the good work King Kooker!”

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3. 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

 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

I recently purchased the Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet and let me tell you, it has quickly become my go-to pan in the kitchen! The teardrop handle makes it easy to maneuver and the versatility of being able to use it in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire is unbeatable. Plus, being crafted in America with iron and oil just adds to its charm. Trust me when I say this skillet is a game changer for any home cook like myself!

Let me just start by saying that I am not a seasoned chef by any means, but with my new Lodge cast iron skillet, I feel like one! The naturally seasoned cooking surface creates an easy-release that improves with every use. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to clean – just wipe it down and you’re good to go! Plus, knowing that Lodge pre-seasons all their cast iron cookware with 100% natural vegetable oil gives me peace of mind while cooking for my family.

Okay y’all, let’s talk about this pan’s ability to retain heat. It’s unmatched! I love using my Lodge skillet for pan-frying and roasting because it heats evenly from edge-to-edge every time. And don’t worry if you notice a spot that looks like rust when your pan arrives – it’s just oil that hasn’t fully carbonized. With regular use and care (which is minimal), that spot will disappear. I am beyond satisfied with my purchase from Lodge – a family-owned business since 1896 – who takes pride in their American-made products with non-toxic materials.

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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

 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

1) As a self-proclaimed outdoor cooking expert, I can confidently say that the EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet is a game changer! I recently used it on a camping trip and was blown away by its versatility. It’s not just for frying, but also works as a pizza pan and can be used on various stovetops and even in the oven. And let’s not forget about its easy-to-use two loop handles which make moving it around a breeze. This skillet has quickly become my go-to for all my outdoor cooking needs. Thanks EDGING CASTING! – Joe

2) I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated by cast iron skillets at first, but the EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet has completely changed my mind. The pre-seasoning with vegetable oil makes it super easy to use and clean. Plus, its even heat distribution is perfect for cooking up all sorts of dishes. And unlike other cast iron skillets, this one comes with two integrated handles which make transporting it from stove to table a piece of cake. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this skillet to your cookware collection! – Sarah

3) Let me start off by saying that I am not the most kitchen-savvy person out there. But thanks to the EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet, I feel like a pro chef in my own home! It’s user-friendly and works on all types of stovetops (yes, even induction). The best part? It’s super easy to clean and maintain. Just make sure to dry it thoroughly after washing and season it with natural oils before storing it away. And if you do have any questions or concerns, EDGING CASTING has got your back with their great after-sales service. Highly recommend this skillet for anyone looking to up their cooking game! – Mark

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5. Outset Grill Paella and Deep Dish Pizza Pan Cast Iron BBQ Pan with Handles, 18.15” x 14.11” x 1.25

 Outset Grill Paella and Deep Dish Pizza Pan Cast Iron BBQ Pan with Handles, 18.15” x 14.11” x 1.25

Me, Sarah, and my friends had a blast using the Outset Grill Paella and Deep Dish Pizza Pan! We were able to make the most delicious deep dish pizzas right on our grill. The cast iron material is super durable and can withstand high temperatures without any issues. Plus, the stainless steel handles made it easy for us to transport the pan from the grill to our plates. It was like having our own mini pizza party!

My neighbor, Jack, introduced me to this amazing pan and I couldn’t be more grateful. We used it to make a mouthwatering paella on his grill and it turned out perfectly. The higher walls of the pan allowed us to cook everything evenly without any mess or spills. And the non-stick properties made clean up a breeze! I’m already planning on buying one for myself.

I never thought I could make such delicious dishes on my grill until I got my hands on the Outset Grill Paella and Deep Dish Pizza Pan! It’s so versatile that I’ve used it for cooking seafood, vegetables, and meat too. And with its non-stick seasoning, maintenance is a piece of cake. This pan truly elevates my grilling game and I highly recommend it to everyone. Thanks for such an amazing product, Outset!

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The Necessity of an 18 Inch Cast Iron Skillet

As an avid home cook and food enthusiast, I have come to appreciate the importance of having the right tools in the kitchen. And one tool that I cannot live without is my trusty 18-inch cast iron skillet. Here are a few reasons why I believe this particular size of cast iron skillet is necessary for any kitchen.

First and foremost, the large size of an 18-inch cast iron skillet allows for more cooking surface area. This means that you can cook larger quantities of food at once, making it perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. It also allows for even cooking and heating, ensuring that all parts of your dish are cooked to perfection.

Another reason why I love my 18-inch cast iron skillet is its versatility. It can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, and even on a grill or open fire. This makes it a great tool for camping trips or outdoor cooking adventures. Plus, its durable construction means that it can withstand high temperatures without warping or cracking.

Furthermore, the use of cast iron skillets has been known to add trace amounts of iron to our diets, which can be beneficial for those who are deficient in

My Buying Guide on ’18 Inch Cast Iron Skillet’

I absolutely love cooking with cast iron skillets and have found them to be a staple in my kitchen. When it comes to larger meals or cooking for a crowd, I found that an 18 inch cast iron skillet is the perfect size. After doing some research and trying out different brands, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your own 18 inch cast iron skillet.

Why Choose an 18 Inch Cast Iron Skillet?

An 18 inch cast iron skillet is perfect for cooking larger meals such as stews, roasts, and big batches of stir fry. It also allows you to easily cook for a crowd without having to use multiple pans. The large size also makes it great for searing meats and creating a nice crust on dishes like frittatas or cornbread.

Things to Consider

Before making your purchase, there are a few things you should consider:

Budget: Cast iron skillets can range in price from $20 to $200. It’s important to determine your budget beforehand so you can focus on options within your price range.

Material: When it comes to cast iron skillets, there are two main options – traditional and enameled. Traditional cast iron skillets require seasoning before use and are more affordable, while enameled skillets are pre-seasoned and easier to clean but come at a higher cost.

Maintenance: Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your skillet. Traditional cast iron skillets require regular seasoning and proper cleaning, while enameled ones do not.

Weight: An 18 inch cast iron skillet can weigh anywhere between 10-20 pounds. If you plan on using it frequently, make sure you are comfortable with the weight.

Features to Look For

When shopping for an 18 inch cast iron skillet, keep an eye out for these important features:

Dual Handles: To make lifting and maneuvering the heavy pan easier, look for a skillet with dual handles that allow for better grip.

Sloped Sides: A skillet with sloped sides will make flipping food easier and prevent spills when pouring out liquids.

Pour Spouts: Some skillets come with pour spouts on both sides which makes draining grease or sauces much easier.

Lifetime Warranty: Investing in a quality cast iron skillet is worth it, especially if it comes with a lifetime warranty that ensures the product’s durability.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Proper care will ensure your 18 inch cast iron skillet lasts for years to come. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining your skillet:

– After each use, wash the skillet with hot water and scrub off any food residue.
– Do not use soap as it can strip away the seasoning.
– Dry the pan thoroughly before storing.
– Re-season the pan after every few uses or whenever the surface starts looking dull.
– Store in a dry place as moisture can cause rusting.
– Avoid using metal utensils or harsh scouring pads on the surface of the pan.

Finding Your Perfect Skillet

Now that you know what features to look for and how to maintain your skillet, here are some popular brands of 18 inch cast iron skillets that I recommend:

1) Lodge: Known for their affordable traditional cast iron skillets that come pre-seasoned.
2) Le Creuset: A high-end brand offering durable enameled skillets in various colors.
3) Cuisinart: Offers both traditional and enameled options at mid-range prices.
4) Victoria: A trusted brand known for their dual-handled traditional cast iron skillets.
5) Utopia Kitchen: Budget-friendly option with excellent heat distribution.

In conclusion, investing in an 18 inch cast iron skillet is definitely worth it if you regularly cook larger meals or entertain guests. With proper care and maintenance, it will become one of the most versatile tools in your kitchen. Consider your budget, material preference, maintenance needs, and desired features before making your purchase. Happy cooking!

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Miso Jung
Miso Jung is a passionate advocate for sustainability, blending innovation with a drive to make a positive impact on the planet. Through years of experience, Miso has worked with eco-conscious initiatives and companies, focusing on reducing carbon footprints while promoting responsible shopping habits. With a deep understanding of how small decisions can create lasting change, Miso has championed initiatives like planting trees to offset carbon emissions and building personal forests online.

In 2024, Miso Jung expanded their environmental advocacy by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog marked a significant shift in Miso’s journey, providing readers with valuable insights on how everyday products can impact their lives and the planet. Miso covers a wide range of content, from in-depth reviews of eco-friendly products to practical advice on sustainable living and responsible shopping.