Investing in a top-tier cast iron cookware set can offer significant benefits to every kitchen. Cast iron possesses unrivaled abilities to heat up swiftly and uniformly, intensifying the taste of your meals every time they're cooked. Also, this material is usually more robust compared to other cookware types. Hence, these factors present a persuasive argument for the value of including a premium cast iron set in any kitchen upgrade.
If you want a high-quality pot or pan without having to spend too much on it then this article is perfect for you! You'll get insight into some different brands and what makes them great as well as other benefits such as versatility, durability, and even cleaning ease. Take a look at some of the best cast iron cookware sets.
List Of 5 Best Cast Iron Cookware Set Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5-Piece Kitchen Cookware Set
- The Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware Set has everything the cook needs. It includes an 8-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch griddle, and a 10.25-inch skillet with a lid making it perfect for all occasions.
- This 5-piece cast iron pan set provides enough space for multiple dishes, which will save valuable time by cutting down on trips to the stovetop or oven.
- This set is pre-seasoned to prevent rusting and ensure your beautiful cookware lasts for generations. Also, these pieces are a breeze to clean and come in neutral colors that fit right into any kitchen décor.
2. Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned 7 Piece Heavy Duty Cast Iron Dutch Oven Camping Cooking Set
- With a 12" skillet, 4.5qt Dutch oven pot, and 2.5qt saucepot, you'll be able to cook whatever your heart desires on your open fire or in burning ash with this heavy-duty set of cast iron cooking ware! Pre-seasoned and non-stick surfaces make the cleaning process quick and painless.
- The cast-iron surface provides a natural seasoning layer for consistent non-stick cookware while the skillet is heavy enough to act as a trivet, saving space on your stove or in your kitchen cabinets. With this set, you are able to cook on an open fire if need be too!
- This 7 piece cast iron cookware set kit includes a 12"cast iron skillet, 4 1/2 qt Dutch oven pot, 2 1/2 qt saucepot, 20 x 9 inches heavy-duty reversible griddle, and 8 1/4 inch trivet.
3. Cuisinel Cast Iron Cookware 11-Pc Set
- Cuisinel Cast Iron Cookware is a sturdy, durable, and versatile cookware set that gives you everything from frying pans to pizza pans. These pieces with sleek steel-colored designs are efficient at heating up quickly and evenly so you can conquer any dish! The 11-Pc Set includes everything you need to make simple, delicious meals that are good for your family; from pan scrubbers to a rack organizer.
- Comprised of a smooth, enameled interior and seamless design for even heat distribution on your stovetop or induction cooktop, these workhorses will take care of all your favorite frying, baking, grilling, broiling, and braising needs.
- The tempered-core construction makes it easy to sear meats while locking in juices that would otherwise be lost during cooking and its 12" depth is perfect for large families or gatherings. The additional interesting features that stands by the product's quality are the dual handles for added stability during use or transport, as well as a lifetime warranty against defects in manufacturing.
4. Stansport Cast Iron 6 Piece Cookware Set
- The Stansport Cast Iron 6 Piece Cookware Set is best for outdoor kitchens. This set features skillets, fryers, Dutch ovens, and more, each with a heavy cast iron lid to keep food moist while cooking. Appropriate for a range of dishes from roasts to pastries and cakes, this cast iron cookware set has the essential parts you need to be well equipped in outdoor kitchen settings. With an easy-to-clean surface that can withstand temperatures over 500 degrees Fahrenheit as well as being induction-ready, this set will last you through many seasons of cooking!
- If there's one gift that can span generations, it'll be this Stansport Cast Iron 6 Piece Cookware Set. They keep food warmer for a longer time and the even heat distribution lets you cook over an open fire with no worries.
5. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Set
- Make your favorite meals using the Lodge Cast Iron 5 Piece Set. With its pre-seasoned, fully seasoned cast iron cover and easy-grip handle to help keep your hands safe while you cook, this set is perfect for any home chef.
- With the versatility of stovetop cooking or baking in an oven, cooking in this set can be done on just about anything - including electric range coil tops! The pots are designed with professional chefs in mind and get hot quickly distributing heat evenly so food isn't overcooked in one spot by being too hot.
- This set includes one 10" fry pan with lid, two 8" covered saucepans with lids, and one 6 quarts dutch oven with an integrated colander and helper handle - all pre-seasoned in 100% natural vegetable oil right out of the box. And the cast iron cover has self-basting tips that baste as it cooks so you save on fat! For an easy clean up simply wipe clean or hand wash after use.
How to Choose the Best Cast Iron Cookware Set
Here are some important factors to consider when looking for the cast iron cookware;
Weight
Cast iron cookware is naturally heavy and that is good for holding heat and making them very long lasting. Nonetheless, very heavy pieces are awkward to maneuver, particularly when they are filled with food items. Choose a set that has just the right amount of weight without being too hard to maneuver around.
Cast Iron Lids And Handles
Check if the cookware includes well-fitting lids to retain heat and moisture effectively. Handles are also crucial for safe handling; look for long, ergonomic handles for pots and additional helper handles on heavier pieces for better grip.
Bare VS. Enamel
Bare cast iron requires seasoning and regular maintenance to prevent rust, but it offers superior heat conduction and a natural non-stick surface over time. Enamel coated cast iron, however, is much easier to clean, does not need seasoning but is prone to chipping.. Your choice depends on preference for maintenance and aesthetic appeal.
Non-Seasoned or Pre-Seasoned
Pre-seasoned cookware comes ready to use, with an initial non-stick layer, saving you the effort of seasoning it yourself. Non-seasoned pieces require more effort initially but allow you to customize the seasoning.
Price
Prices of cast iron cookware sets differ greatly. It is a fact that the higher end brands are able to provide better quality products, longer lasting ones and even better warranties. But the great news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to make them work well, all you have to do is to take care of them.
Tips On Cooking with Cast Iron
1. Season Beforehand
A tough, seasoned cast iron pan will make your food taste better and your cleanup easier. It takes time to season a cast iron pan, so it's best to do it before you need it. Pre-seasoning also helps prevent rusting since the seasoning acts as an insulator between the metal and oxygen in the air. Just toss your new (unwashed) pan into the oven at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until perfectly heated through. Wipe out any excess oil while still hot with paper towels - just don't use soap! Coat lightly with cooking spray, wipe off excess and let cool completely before storing.
2. Clean Immediately After Use
If you wait too long to clean your cast iron pan, chances are good that it's going to rust. Condensation and other residual liquids from cooking can cause a build-up of acids on the surface which in turn accelerate oxidation (rusting). To prevent rusting, be sure to immediately wash out your cast iron with warm water and dish soap while still hot. Dry thoroughly and coat lightly with oil while still warm before storage.
3. Avoid Searing
Searing meat in a cast-iron skillet often leads to the surface of the pan developing an unwanted brown crust. This is because most meats contain proteins and sugars that oxidize when heated, creating a dark non-stick film on the bottom of your pan. Since this "crust" is unsightly, try using heavy-duty stainless steel pans for searing or removing the pan from the heat before food has finished cooking. You can also cook over medium heat but make sure you avoid moving your food around too much as that will result in uneven browning. For extra safety, line your pan with aluminum foil especially useful if you're going to be deglazing it (see below).
4. Store With Oil (Or Else!)
Last but not least: Never store a cast iron without first coating it with oil or storing it upright so that any condensation drips off. Otherwise, you'll be left with an unsightly and unseasoned pan. Your only other option is to stick your cast iron in a plastic bag or airtight container before storage. While this does prevent rusting, it also prevents air from getting to the metal -- which means no seasoning until next time either. If you don't want to use oils that have a strong flavor or odor, try drying your cast iron thoroughly (after washing) and using a thin layer of vegetable oil or wax to coat the surface.
Conclusion
The versatility of cast iron cookware sets is one of their best features. If you want a high-quality pot or pan without having to spend too much on it then this article is perfect for you! You'll get insight into some different brands and what makes them great as well as other benefits such as durability, cleaning ease, and the fact that they can be used in many cooking methods (including stovetop, oven, grill).
