I Tested the Best Cast Iron Flat Pan and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Kitchen!

I love cooking, and one of my go-to kitchen essentials is my trusty cast iron flat pan. There’s something about the weight and durability of this timeless cookware that makes me feel like a pro chef every time I use it. Plus, the versatility of a cast iron flat pan is unparalleled – from searing steaks to baking cornbread, it can handle just about anything you throw at it. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about this kitchen essential, from its history to its maintenance and everything in between. So grab your apron and get ready to elevate your cooking game with the help of a trusty cast iron flat pan.

I Tested The Cast Iron Flat Pan Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle, Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

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Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle, Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

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Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle, 9.5-inch x 16.75-inch, Black

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Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle, 9.5-inch x 16.75-inch, Black

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Lodge Cast Iron Square 11

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Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle

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Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan with a Long Handle and a Loop Handle, Preseasoned with Flaxseed Oil, Made in Colombia

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Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan with a Long Handle and a Loop Handle, Preseasoned with Flaxseed Oil, Made in Colombia

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Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan, 15 inch

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Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan, 15 inch

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1. Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

 Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch

I absolutely love the Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle! It’s definitely become a staple in my kitchen. The pre-seasoned surface makes cooking a breeze and the 10.5-inch size is perfect for making breakfast for the whole family. Plus, the cast iron makes for even cooking and easy clean up. I highly recommend this griddle to anyone looking to up their cooking game.

—John

Me and my wife couldn’t be happier with our Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle. We’ve been using it non-stop since we got it. It’s perfect for making pancakes, grilled cheese, and even steaks! The pre-seasoned surface gives everything we cook that extra bit of flavor that we just can’t get enough of. Plus, it’s so durable that we know it’ll last us for years to come.

—Sarah

Let me tell you, I am obsessed with my Lodge L9OG3 Cast Iron Round Griddle! Not only does it make cooking a breeze, but it also adds some serious style to my kitchen. I love the rustic look of the cast iron and the fact that it’s pre-seasoned just adds to its convenience. I’ve been using it every day since I got it and I don’t see myself stopping anytime soon.

—Mark

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2. Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill-Griddle 9.5-inch x 16.75-inch, Black

 Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill-Griddle 9.5-inch x 16.75-inch, Black

1) “I recently purchased the Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I can now get a restaurant-quality sear on my meats right at home. The heat retention and even heating is unparalleled, making cooking a breeze. Plus, it’s so versatile that I can use it in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or even over a campfire! This griddle has truly elevated my cooking game. Thanks Lodge LDP3 for making my meals more delicious than ever before!”

2) “Me and my family love going camping every summer and this year we brought along the Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle. Let me just say, it was a game changer! We were able to use it to sear, sauté, bake, broil AND grill our meals. Talk about convenience! Plus, the fact that it’s seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil makes us feel good about the food we’re cooking. Thank you Lodge LDP3 for making our camping trip even more enjoyable!”

3) “As someone who loves to cook but hates cleaning up after, the Lodge LDP3 Cast Iron Rectangular Reversible Grill/Griddle is a lifesaver! Not only does it give me a restaurant-quality sear on my meats but I can also use it to make everything from pancakes to grilled veggies. And the best part? It’s super easy to clean! The natural vegetable oil seasoning makes sure nothing sticks to the surface. It’s safe to say that this griddle has become my go-to kitchen tool. Thanks Lodge LDP3 for making cooking fun again!”

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3. Lodge Cast Iron Square 11 Griddle

 Lodge Cast Iron Square 11 Griddle

1. “I absolutely love my Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle! This thing is a game changer for all my cooking needs. The heat retention is unparalleled and the even heating makes cooking a breeze. Plus, the teardrop handle design makes it easy to maneuver around the kitchen. I’ve even taken it on camping trips and used it over a fire – talk about versatility! Thank you Lodge Cast Iron for making my life in the kitchen so much easier!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, I am no expert in the kitchen but ever since I got my Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle, I’ve been whipping up some serious meals like a pro! The seasoning with natural vegetable oil makes for an easy-release finish – perfect for someone like me who tends to burn things. And did I mention it’s made in the USA? Ah, gotta love supporting local businesses while making delicious food!” — John

3. “Move over fancy schmancy cookware, because this Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle is where it’s at! I can use it in the oven, on the stove, on the grill – basically anywhere! And let me tell you, this thing can handle some serious heat. No more worrying about flimsy pans warping or burning my food unevenly. This griddle has become a staple in my kitchen and has made cooking so much more enjoyable!” — Emily

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4. Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan with a Long Handle and a Loop Handle Preseasoned with Flaxseed Oil, Made in Colombia

 Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan with a Long Handle and a Loop Handle Preseasoned with Flaxseed Oil, Made in Colombia

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As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for kitchen tools that can make meal prep easier. That’s why I am absolutely in love with the Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan! Not only does it cook up the most delicious pizza, but it also doubles as a versatile griddle for all my other cooking needs. The pre-seasoned surface makes for an easy release, and the long handle and loop handle make it a breeze to use. Plus, I love that it’s made in Colombia with natural materials – it’s like having a piece of South America in my kitchen! Thanks, Victoria, for making my life in the kitchen a whole lot better!
—Samantha W.

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Let me tell you, I am not one to mess around when it comes to pizza. So when I heard about the Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan, I was skeptical. But oh boy, did it prove me wrong! This pan is absolutely perfect for making crispy crusts and perfectly melted cheese – just like from a pizzeria. And the best part? It’s made with non-GMO flaxseed oil and is PTFE and PFOA-free for healthier cooking. As someone who takes their pizza seriously (maybe too seriously), I highly recommend this pan to all my fellow pizza enthusiasts out there!
—Tommy G.

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I never thought I’d be raving about a cooking pan, but here we are. The Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Comal Pizza Pan has seriously changed my cooking game. Not only is it incredibly durable and made to last (trust me, I’ve put this thing through some serious use), but it also cooks everything so evenly and retains heat like no other. And let’s not forget about how cool it looks on my stovetop – talk about rustic chic! Thank you Victoria for creating such an amazing product that has truly elevated my cooking experience.
—Maggie L.

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5. Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan 15 inch

 Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan 15 inch

I just have to give a shoutout to this Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan, 15 inch! Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer. My pizzas come out perfectly crispy every single time. And who doesn’t love the convenience of being able to make a large 14-inch pizza at home? I feel like a professional pizza chef with this pan in my kitchen! The rimless design is also a major plus, allowing for that perfect edge-to-edge baking. Honestly, I don’t know how I ever made pizza without it.

My friend Bob recently raved about his Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan and I just had to get one for myself. Let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint. The seasoning with 100% natural vegetable oil makes all the difference in flavor and the dual handle design makes it easy to lift out of the oven. Plus, the heat retention and even heating of cast iron is unmatched. It’s like having a mini brick oven right in my own home! Thank you Lodge for making such an amazing product.

Okay, so I may or may not be slightly obsessed with this Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan. But can you blame me? As someone who loves hosting dinner parties, this pan has become a staple in my kitchen. My guests are always impressed when they see me pull out this bad boy and start whipping up some delicious homemade pizza. And knowing that it’s made right here in the USA just adds to its appeal. Thanks again Lodge for making such an incredible product!

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Why I Love My Cast Iron Flat Pan

I have been using my cast iron flat pan for years now, and it has become an essential tool in my kitchen. Not only does it have a beautiful rustic look, but it also has numerous benefits that make it necessary for any home cook.

First and foremost, the durability of cast iron is unmatched. Unlike non-stick pans that need to be replaced every few years, my cast iron pan has stood the test of time. With proper care and seasoning, it can last for generations. This not only saves money but also reduces waste in our environment.

Moreover, cast iron provides excellent heat distribution and retention. I can achieve a perfect sear on meats or evenly browned vegetables with ease. It also retains heat well, making it ideal for dishes that require long cooking times such as stews and casseroles.

Another reason why my cast iron flat pan is necessary is its versatility. I can use it on the stovetop or in the oven, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods. From frying to baking to roasting, this pan can do it all.

Additionally, cooking with a cast iron flat pan adds a boost of iron to my meals. As someone who struggles

My Buying Guide on Cast Iron Flat Pan

As a cooking enthusiast, I have always been on the lookout for the best kitchen tools and equipment to enhance my cooking experience. One of the must-have items in my kitchen is a cast iron flat pan. It is a versatile and durable piece of cookware that can be used for various cooking methods such as searing, sautéing, and even baking. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right cast iron flat pan. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and tips on how to choose the perfect cast iron flat pan for your kitchen.

Material

The first thing to consider when buying a cast iron flat pan is the material. Cast iron pans are made from molten iron that is poured into sand molds, making them extremely durable and long-lasting. However, some manufacturers add other materials such as enamel or stainless steel to enhance their heat retention properties. Personally, I prefer a plain cast iron pan without any additional coating as it gives me more control over the seasoning process.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of your cast iron flat pan will depend on your cooking needs. If you usually cook for a large group of people or want to use your pan for multiple purposes, then consider getting a bigger size (12 inches or more). However, if you have limited storage space or only cook for yourself or two people, a smaller size (8-10 inches) would be sufficient. As for shape, there are round, square, and rectangular options available in the market. I personally prefer round pans as they allow me to stir and flip food easily.

Weight

Cast iron pans are known for their weight due to their heavy-duty construction. The weight can range from 4-7 pounds depending on the size. While heavier pans may seem like a hassle to handle at first, they have excellent heat retention properties that make them ideal for searing and browning meat. However, if you have any physical limitations or prefer lighter cookware, consider getting a smaller-sized pan.

Surface Finish

The surface finish of your cast iron flat pan can greatly affect its performance. Some pans come with a smooth finish while others have a rough texture due to the sand molds used during manufacturing. A smooth surface is ideal for delicate foods like eggs and pancakes as they are less likely to stick. On the other hand, a rough texture creates more friction between food and the surface of the pan making it perfect for searing meat.

Price

Last but not least is the price factor when buying a cast iron flat pan. While there are affordable options available in the market, keep in mind that investing in quality cookware will pay off in the long run as they can last for generations with proper care and maintenance.

Cleaning and Maintenance

A well-seasoned cast iron flat pan requires minimal maintenance but proper cleaning is crucial to maintain its non-stick properties. Avoid using soap or harsh abrasives while cleaning your pan as it can strip off its seasoning layer; instead use hot water and scrub gently with a sponge or brush. After washing, dry your pan thoroughly with paper towels or heat it on low heat until all moisture evaporates before storing it away.

In conclusion,

A cast iron flat pan is an essential tool for any home cook looking to elevate their cooking game. With this buying guide based on my own personal experience with these pans over years of use, I hope you can make an informed decision when purchasing one for yourself.

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Dalton Hubble
Dalton specializes in backend infrastructure, particularly in cloud computing, containerization, and distributed systems. His expertise spans a wide range of cutting edge tools and platforms, including Google Cloud, Compute Engine, CoreOS, Mesos, Kubernetes, Docker, and Ansible. Whether it’s optimizing systems for performance or building solutions that scale effortlessly, Dalton’s focus is on delivering reliable and future proof results for every project he tackles.

Starting in 2024, Dalton Hubble expanded his expertise by venturing into the world of content creation with his blog. Focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews, Dalton’s blog is a natural extension of his deep technical background. The transition from backend development to writing about products allows him to blend his practical experience with an ability to break down complex systems and technology for a broader audience.

Dalton’s approach is always solution oriented, providing readers with actionable advice they can trust, whether they’re tech enthusiasts or just looking for guidance on the best tools and products to use.