Cast iron cookware has been a kitchen staple for almost as long as humans have been cooking, with evidence of it dating back over 5000 years (to the aptly-named Iron Age). More recently, they’ve become popular with induction cooktops and as a natural alternative to coated non-stick frying pans . And arguably one of the best pieces to add to your collection is a cast iron skillet, which offers an exceptional mix of versatility, heat retention and flavour-enhancing properties.
Skillets, which are basically the same as frying pans, have flat bottoms and shallow, flared sides that make them ideal for shallow frying, high-heat searing or grilling and of course flipping.
From crispy-skinned chicken and expertly seared steaks to delicious pancakes, a quality cast iron skillet can elevate even the most straightforward recipes into something special. Not to mention, they’re the preferred choice of many tops chefs worldwide (more on that below).
But if you’re new to cast iron, it can be hard to know where to start. So here, we’ve picked out six of the best cast iron skillets you can buy in Australia based on features including the design, durability and any relevant reviews or customer ratings. We’ve also got details on using and caring for your cast iron cookware so it can last you a lifetime (and yes, that’s really possible!).
2025’s top cast iron skillets
- Lodge 26cm cast iron skillet, priced at $72.99 (down from $104.95), available on Amazon (here’s why)
- Solidteknics AUS-ION 26cm frypan, $219.95, Solidteknics (here’s why)
- Le Creuset Signature 20cm cast iron round skillet, $220 (usually $280), Minimax (here’s why)
The best cast iron skillets to shop in Australia
01
Lodge 26cm cast iron skillet
$72.99 (usually $104.95), Amazon
A classic choice for a reason, Lodge cast iron skillets are renowned for their durability and even heat distribution. Perfect for searing, frying and baking, this skillet is a kitchen must-have. Its heavy-duty seasoned construction promises even cooking and browning, while two spouts and a helper handle make it easy to use.
It has an impressive 4.6-star average rating on on Amazon from over 69,000 global customers. One Australian customer who left a 5-star review shared “it’s an absolute workhorse of a frying pan. If you start off with cooking in it as much as possible the seasoning builds up quickly, and it’s tolerant of a good hard scrubbing with dish soap- just don’t put it in the dishwasher! The perfect size for everyday cooking, and it has excellent heat distribution for even cooking.”
Another customer wrote: “I had never tried cast iron pans before, so I tried this on my induction cooktop and WOW it works great! It has excellent non-stick properties, it cooks a steak to perfection, and is a joy to use.”
Key features:
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use
- Even heat distribution
- Oven, stovetop and grill safe
- Durable and long-lasting
- Loop handle for easy hanging
- Pouring spouts for mess-free cooking
Also available at:
- $72.99 (usually $104.95), House
- $79.95 (usually $129.95), Kitchen Warehouse
- $99.95 (usually $129.95), MiniMax
- $97.46 (usually $104.95), David Jones
02
Solidteknics AUS-ION 26cm frypan
$219.95, Solidteknics
Australian company Solidteknics has made a name for the range of durable cookware, and this best-selling AUS-ION frypan is a great example of why. It’s technically wrought iron – made from a single sheet of Australian iron, rather than melted down and set like cast iron – and has natural pre-seasoning and a multi-century warranty.
“I had never owned a wrought or cast iron skillet before buying this one from Solidteknics in 2024 but now it’s all I want to cook with,” writer Amy Bradney-George said.
“The first time I used it was to make pancakes for seven people, which was a great test of its cooking qualities. My husband was using a typical non-stick pan next to me and those pancakes took twice as long to cook and were actually harder to flip, even though we both used butter.
“I think it helped that I had read through the ‘Getting Started Guide’ and watched a Solidteknics video showing how to tell when what you’re cooking is ‘released’ and ready for flipping. But I’ve seriously been singing the praises of this pan since I got it – the long handle really does stay cool and the pan was lighter than I expected. And it’s super easy to clean (gently!).”
Better Homes & Gardens review
Key features:
- 3mm-thick wrought iron from Australia
- Long, ergonomic, vented handle that stays cool on the stovetop
- Pre-seasoned with non-GMO rice bran oil for natural non-stick qualities
- Suitable for all heat sources, including stovetop, oven and outdoor campfires
- Multi-century warranty
Also available at:
- $219.95, Biome
03
Le Creuset Signature 20cm cast iron round skillet
from $220 (usually $280), Minimax
For those seeking a touch of elegance, Le Creuset’s enamelled cast iron pan is a top contender. This 20cm skillet is perfect for searing, braising and making sauces. Its even heating and moisture-sealing capabilities make it ideal for smaller meals, while the black enamel interior resists staining and wear.
A satisfied Aussie shopper commented in a glowing 5-star review on Le Creuset Australia, noting that "it's worth saving up for—it's dependable and offers an excellent size. The best part? A small amount of heat works wonders with cast iron. We're thrilled we finally made the upgrade." This product boasts a commendable 4.2-star rating based on more than 70 reviews. Another contented local customer raved about it being their "favorite skillet yet—extremely user-friendly for cooking and cleaning alike. Regular seasoning keeps it wonderfully non-stick."
Colours Satin black, cerise, sage green, volcanic red, bamboo green, andazure blue
Key features:
- The black enamel inner lining prevents discoloration.
- Simple-to-hold grips and leak-resistant pour spouts
- Appropriate for use with an oven, hob, induction cooktops, and grill.
- Suitable for hand washing and dishwashers.
- Lifetime guarantee
Also available at:
- $224 (usually $280), Kitchen Warehouse
- $224 (usually $280), Le Creuset
04
Victoria used a 30cm cast-iron frying pan with seasoning.
from $80.95 (usually $139.95), Kitchen Warehouse
Victoria Cookware, a family-run business, offers robust and multifunctional items that you can depend on season after season. Specifically, this skillet serves as an all-purpose tool for tasks such as sautéing, frying, searing, baking, broiling, and roasting — offering virtually limitless culinary options! Crafted in Colombia using premium-grade cast iron, it boasts excellent heat retention properties, ensuring consistent cooking with no temperature swings.
“I love this pan,” said a five-star reviewer. “Can’t believe I left it so long to switch from non-stick cookware to cast iron. I always thought cast iron would be too difficult to clean and that everything would stick. Now I understand that [with] using it correctly and following the simplest care methods, it is going to be a lifelong asset in my kitchen. And it is non-stick without the risks of Teflon chemicals.”
Key features:
- Heavy-duty, quality construction
- Excellent heat retention
- Dual pouring spouts prevent drips
- Curved handle with hanging hole
- Pre-seasoned with organic flaxseed oil for easy release
- Compatible with induction, ceramic, electric and gas cooktops
- Suitable for use in an oven, on a grill, and over a campfire
05
Smith + Nobel Raw 30cm cast iron frying pan
$89.99, Harris Scarfe
No matter if you're making a light and airy omelet, crafting the ideal pie, or cooking a perfectly seared steak, this versatile pan truly handles everything. Constructed with robust cast iron that’s thick and sturdy, it guarantees uniform heat dispersion and longevity, ensuring mouthwatering dishes consistently. Additionally, should you choose to register for a complimentary account, Harris Scarfe Friends account , you can currently save 50% on the usual price, which is a great deal for anyone wanting to upgrade their cookware (while saving your hard-earned cash).
This cast iron skillet also has a 4.5-star average from over 38 customers at Harris Scarfe.
“Love this pan. Took a bit to get it seasoned but now don’t understand why we didn’t get one sooner,” one customer shared in an honest 5-star review.
Key features:
- Tough and durable cast iron construction
- Oven safe up to 200 degrees
- Grill and open fire safe
- Non-stick when seasoned
- Loop handle for ease of moving and storing
- Suitable for all stovetops, including induction
06
Utopia Kitchen pre-seasoned cast iron skillet set of 3
$60, Amazon
These skillets, seasoned and ready for use, offer versatility for everything from steaks to veggies. They retain heat exceptionally well and get better with each use, providing a non-stick surface that’s great for healthier cooking. Just remember to dry and oil them after washing to keep them in tip-top condition!
Over 17,800 customers on Amazon have reviewed this set, giving it a 4.3-star average and lots of praise for its value for money, compact size, resilience and more.
“I have had a set of these pans since 1995 and they are still going strong,” wrote one reviewer. “Easy to cook with and reach very, very high temperatures, which are great for steaks. Once heated they remain very hot for a long while enabling you to turn off the heat and allow the food to keep cooking, saving you gas/electricity.”
Colours : Black, blue, green, red and teal
Key features:
- Includes 15cm, 20cm and 25cm skillets
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use
- Outstanding insulation with uniform heating
- Non-stick property achieved through appropriate seasoning
- Ideal for use in ovens, over campfires, and on all types of stovetops
- Lead-free and PFOA/PTFE-free
07
Ironclad: The Legacy Pan - Size 28cm
$279, Minimax
The 28cm cast-iron Legacy Pan from Ironclad Co boasts a silky-smooth, inherently non-stick finish that resembles ceramic and heats up effectively across all types of stovetops, including induction models. This pan showcases a hand-crafted look with the company’s 100-year guarantee prominently inscribed on its underside.
The product boasts a remarkable 4.9-star average rating based on more than 200 reviews on the Ironclad Co website. One satisfied customer commented, "Although I've purchased high-quality cookware before, this particular pan outshines even my favorite stainless-steel options... For unparalleled excellence, choose Ironclad without hesitation. Their commitment to sustainability and longevity resonates well with me, as someone who values recycling and durable products."
As if that’s not enough, renowned Australian chef (and sometimes Masterchef judge) Shannon Bennet has called it: “The only pan you need for induction or campfire.”
Key features:
- Works on all heat sources, including induction, gas, electric, ceramic, BBQ, oven, pizza oven and campfire
- Meticulously hand-finished cooking surface and base for a naturally non-stick pan
- Lifetime account to the Ironclad Co Recipe Vault
- 100-Year Product Warranty
Also available at:
- $279.99, BCF
Do chefs use cast iron skillets?
Yes, cast iron skillets are a staple in professional kitchens for a reason.
Chefs love them for their incredible heat retention, versatility and ability to deliver delicious flavour. From searing meats to baking bread, cast iron skillets can handle it all. Plus, they develop a natural patina over time, enhancing their non-stick properties.
How do you identify a good quality cast iron skillet?
A good cast iron skillet is a kitchen investment, so it’s worth knowing what to look for. Here’s a quick rundown.
Smooth finish
A well-made skillet will have a smooth, even cooking surface. Check for any rough spots or imperfections that could affect cooking performance.
Even weight
The pan should feel evenly weighted and solid, indicating good heat retention and distribution. It shouldn’t feel too light or overly heavy for its size.
Durability
Quality cast iron skillets are seasoned well from the factory, showing a nice, dark and even coating. Avoid skillets with excessive flaking or uneven seasoning.
Brand reputation
Established brands like Lodge , Le Creuset and more are known for their quality and performance. Research and reviews can also provide insights into the skillet’s quality.
No warping
Check the base of the skillet for any warping or distortion. A good quality pan should have a flat, stable base to ensure even cooking.
Handle construction
A sturdy handle with a comfortable grip and a well-designed helper handle for lifting indicates thoughtful craftsmanship.
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The post 7 cast iron pans that top chefs and food enthusiasts absolutely love appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens .
