Diameter: A big family will require a skillet of at least 30cm, whereas a 20cm one will suit couples and cooking small portions of food. Storage and the size of your hob are also essential to consider when choosing the size of your new skillet. Many of the best cast iron skillets come pre-seasoned, so your first friend egg shouldn’t be a complete disaster. However, extra seasoning to create a sturdy patina of oil is vital. Before you start cooking with your new skillet, coat it in your favourite oil with a pastry brush and then pop it in a hot oven for an hour.

12 best cast iron skillets 2023 | BBC Good Food

The high quality of the enamel coating means that it is robust and practical. Reviewers loved the weighty feel of this skillet; they were also delighted that the pre-seasoning was so good, even from the start. This versatile skillet would also be perfect as a serving dish at a party, as the wooden board will protect your table and look smart. In addition, the handle can be removed for easy transport and storage. Season it properly at the start and it will last a very long time. Mine's over 30 years old now.” - Mumsnet user LangClegsInSpace I have a Lodge frying pan and a flat skillet. I love both.” (Tried and tested by bobsyer) Our verdict Enamelled or non-enamelled: enamelled pans not only add a touch of visual appeal with their range of vibrant colours, but they also offer easier cleaning due to their finished surface. However, it's important to remember that you won’t be able to build up the same patina on an enamelled pan because of it’s finished surface, and therefore will miss out on the flavour and natural improvement over time that non-enamelled cast iron brings.

8. Best unseasoned cast iron skillet: Staub Cast Iron Frying Pan

Extra features: Wooden serving boards, removable handles and protective handle covers are additional, useful features of some high-quality skillets. If you’re hosting a rustic dinner party, a stylish enamel-coated skillet would be fantastic as a serving dish as it will look striking, and the food will retain the heat as you pour wine and settle your guests. What foods can’t be cooked in a cast iron skillet? If they could easily be transferred to the oven: most cast iron skillet pans are oven-safe, but we wanted to make sure that going from hob to oven or even oven to table, was safe and easy. We love the classic cream colour and glossy interior. If you’re looking for a new home gift or a practical pan that doubles as a stylish serving dish, this skillet is a fantastic option. The sturdy hanging hook means it can become a rustic feature in a country kitchen, too.

cast iron - BBC Good Food How to season cast iron - BBC Good Food

Size: 25cm | Weight: Not specified | Pre-seasoned?: No | Enamelled?: Yes | Induction hob safe?: Yes | Lid included?: No What we like Pouring spouts: look for skillets that come equipped with pouring spouts as they prove incredibly useful when it comes to disposing of fat or grease or when making a delicious gravy or sauce, as these spouts allow for mess-free pouring. Spouts on either side of the pan mean they’re easy to use for both left- and right-handed users. The price is high for such a small pan. However, the superior quality of Le Creuset products and the lifetime guarantee make it worth the investment. If you look after it and build the layers of seasoning, this quirky pan will become a family heirloom that cooks the best bacon in the world. Mumsnetters can’t get enough of Le Creuset either; from their casserole dishes to their baking trays, it’s considered a top-notch brand if you can afford to splash out. The best cast iron skillet for your family will be the right size, not too heavy and easy to cook with. Here are the features to consider before investing.Flaxseed oil is our top tip if you want your pan seasoned as soon as possible, as it has a very low smoke point of 225 degrees. However, it is expensive, difficult to source and has a strong flavour. The Le Creuset Cast Iron Skillet will add a cheerful pop of colour to your kitchen. It comes in seven different shades, but we love the apple green the most. If you like the idea of cast iron but the rough look puts you off, this enamel-coated skillet will add polish and practicality to your stove.