I Test Cookware for a Living and My Favorite Pan Is $20 Right Now

I’ve always considered the cast iron pan to be the little black dress of the culinary world. It’s classic, works for (almost) everything, and never ceases to impress, no matter the occasion. Whether it’s my husband’s favorite cornbread recipe or my beloved meaty, mighty ribeye, there’s no better choice than my favorite cookware staple. This pan has been with me through culinary school, one husband, six moves, five cities, two kids, and more grilled cheese sandwiches than I care to admit. And right now, it’s on sale for $20.

Lodge 10.25-Inch Cast Iron Pan

While there’s a good chance you already have a quality cast iron pan in your cabinet, it may be time to invest in another. After all, there’s no end to the culinary possibilities of this fundamental piece. It’s not an exaggeration to say that I reach for my Lodge cast iron several times a day. From searing proteins and browning vegetables to grilling sandwiches with golden brown and delicious buttery crusts or even baking dinner rolls or fruit cobblers, there’s no better way to get the job done.

Not only is this Lodge cast iron pan perfect for cooking an enormous array of dishes, but its versatility on different cooking surfaces is unmatched. I’ve cooked in a lot of locations and found that whether I’m cooking in a beautifully adorned kitchen with luxurious cooktops and pristine surfaces or sitting around the campfire with nothing but an open flame to cook breakfast, this pan is always the one I reach for.

Of course, cast iron pans are so wonderful beyond simple nostalgia and rustic charm — they’re incredibly functional. Their construction provides unparalleled heat retention and distribution, which is ideal for browning meats and cooking food evenly. In addition to its excellent cooking abilities, cast iron is extremely durable and made to last for decades, which explains perhaps why so many people (myself included) have such sentimental attachments to these trusty cast iron pans. 

So, whether you’re new to cast iron cookware or already have a set of favorites that have seen you through every major life event, now is the perfect time to buy your new favorite pan.

Shop More of My Favorite Kitchen Tools at Amazon

Beijiyi Spatula Set

John Boos Cutting Board

Henckels 3-Piece Knife Set

Priority Chef Mixing Bowl Set

At the time of publishing, the price was $20.