How to Cook with Cast Iron: A Simple Beginner’s Guide

Learn how to cook with cast iron, from seasoning your pan to cleaning and caring for it. Discover beginner-friendly tips and tricks for cooking with this timeless cookware.

If you’ve ever dreamed of whipping up hearty meals like your grandma used to make, cast iron cookware might just be your new best friend. There’s something timeless and comforting about the sizzle of butter in a cast iron skillet or the rich flavor it brings to your favorite recipes. But if you’re new to cast iron, it can feel a little intimidating. Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know learn how to cook with cast iron.

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Why Cook with Cast Iron?

Cast iron isn’t just a kitchen tool; it’s an heirloom. These durable pans last for generations when cared for properly, and their versatility makes them a must-have in any homemaker’s kitchen. Here’s why you’ll love learning how to cook with cast iron:

• Even Heat Distribution: Cast iron holds heat exceptionally well, giving you that golden sear on meat and evenly baked cornbread.
• Naturally Nonstick Surface: When seasoned properly, cast iron develops a slick surface that rivals modern nonstick pans—without the harmful chemicals.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Use it on the stovetop, in the oven, over a campfire, or even on the grill. One pan does it all!
• Adds Iron to Your Diet: Cooking acidic foods like tomatoes in cast iron can increase the amount of iron in your meals, which is especially helpful for anyone with low iron levels.

Choosing the Right Cast Iron for Your Kitchen

If you’re just learning how to cook with cast iron, a 10- or 12-inch skillet is a great first piece to invest in. These sizes are perfect for most recipes, from frying eggs to roasting chicken. If you plan to bake, a cast iron Dutch oven or a griddle can be a fantastic addition.

You don’t need to buy brand new, either! Vintage cast iron (like Griswold or Wagner) is often lighter and smoother than modern options. Check thrift stores, yard sales, or even family attics—you might find a treasure waiting to be restored.

A few of my favorite cast iron pieces. These are great when you’re learning how to cook with cast iron!

• Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet 
• Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid – I think these are essential for baking my favorite sourdough bread

How to Season Your Cast Iron

Seasoning is the process of building up a layer of oil on your pan to create a natural nonstick coating. Most new cast iron pans come pre-seasoned, but giving them an extra layer at home ensures they’re truly ready for use.

1. Clean the Pan: Wash it with warm water and a bit of soap (yes, soap is okay when seasoning!).
2. Dry Completely: Moisture is the enemy of cast iron. Use a towel to dry it thoroughly, then place the pan on the stovetop over low heat for a few minutes to evaporate any remaining water.
3. Apply Oil: Rub a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil (like coconut oil, lard, or tallow) over the entire pan, including the handle and bottom.
4. Bake It: Place the pan upside down on the middle rack of a 450°F oven, with a baking sheet below to catch drips. Bake for one hour, then let it cool in the oven.

Your pan is now ready to use! Regular cooking with oil (like frying) will continue to build up the seasoning over time.

Cooking with Cast Iron: Tips and Tricks

Cooking with cast iron is simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results:

1. Preheat Your Pan
   Cast iron needs time to heat up. Place your skillet on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes before adding ingredients. To test if it’s hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface—they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
2. Use Plenty of Fat
   While a well-seasoned pan is naturally nonstick, using a bit of oil, butter, or lard helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor. Don’t be afraid to be generous, especially when cooking eggs or delicate foods.
3. Avoid High-Acid Foods (at First)
   Acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus, and vinegar can strip seasoning, especially on newer pans. Wait until your skillet has built up a strong seasoning before making dishes like spaghetti sauce.
4. Cook Low and Slow
   Cast iron retains heat incredibly well, which means you can often use a lower heat setting than with other pans. Slow cooking is where cast iron shines, whether you’re simmering a stew or baking a rustic loaf of sourdough bread.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
   To get a perfect sear on meats or veggies, make sure to leave space between items. Overcrowding can cause food to steam instead of brown.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Cast Iron

Proper care is the key to keeping your cast iron in excellent shape. Here’s how to clean it after each use:

1. Skip the Soap (Most of the Time)
   For everyday cleaning, simply wipe out your pan with a damp cloth or scrub it gently with hot water and a stiff brush. Soap can remove seasoning, so use it sparingly.
2. Tackle Stuck-On Food
   Sprinkle coarse salt onto the pan and scrub with a paper towel or dishcloth. The salt acts as a natural abrasive without damaging the seasoning.
3. Dry Immediately
   Never let your cast iron air dry—it can rust quickly. After washing, dry thoroughly with a towel and place the pan over low heat to ensure it’s completely moisture-free.
4. Reapply Oil
   Once the pan is dry, rub a small amount of oil over the surface before storing. This keeps it well-seasoned and rust-free.

What to Cook in Cast Iron

Now that you’re ready to cook, here are a few beginner-friendly recipes to try in your cast iron skillet:

• Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs: Perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat every time.
• Buttermilk Cornbread: A Southern classic that bakes up golden and fluffy.
• One-Pot Skillet Lasagna: An easy weeknight dinner with fewer dishes to wash.
• Rustic Apple Crisp: Cast iron goes from stovetop to oven, making dessert a breeze.

A Few Final Notes

Learning how to cook with cast iron may take some getting used to, but the results are worth it. With time, you’ll come to appreciate its reliability, versatility, and the sense of connection it brings to simpler days of cooking.

So, pull out that skillet, preheat your oven, and let the journey begin. With a little care and practice, cast iron just might become your favorite tool in the kitchen.

Follow Me on Pinterest for Some Great Cast Iron Recipes!

• Amanda’s Pinterest