As the self-styled resident chef in my household, my culinary exploration knows no bounds, and I take pride in my search for the perfect cookware. It’s a pursuit driven by the desire for precision, efficiency, and the unmistakable sense of accomplishment that comes from turning a simple meal into a culinary adventure.
After months of diligent research and dissecting countless reviews, I made the leap and invested in an induction cooktop. It was then that I met an unexpected roadblock—my newfound induction cooktop was ready to transform my kitchen, but my cookware, not so much.
The lack of induction-compatible cookware drove me on another journey—looking for the best-cast iron pans and skillets for induction cooktops. Dig in to learn more about my cast iron pan collection and what I considered when buying them.
How We Tested
Testing across induction units demonstrated certain cast iron materials excel based on generally magnetic properties of the iron composition itself. Top brands leveraged weight, molding and had design tweaks to overcome common pan challenges.
- We tested heating consistency looking for hotspots
- Added cold water to hot pans, checking for cracking issues
- We measured induction power wattage used with cast iron vs. other materials
So, What are the Best Cast Iron Pans and Skillets for Induction Cooking in 2023
Naturally, I leaned towards the biggest names in the cast in pans and skillet space including Cuisinel, Lodge, Victoria, Made-in, Le Creuset, and Staub. These brands offer some of the best-cast iron skillets and pans on the market.
1. Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet
You can’t go wrong with the Cuisinel cast iron skillet when looking for budget-friendly induction-compatible cookware. The 12-inch frying pan comes pre-seasoned, so you can easily prepare delicate omelets or sticky caramelized sauces right out of the box. The more you use it, the better it performs and will develop a beautiful patina that enhances its non-stick qualities. At 2.5″ deep, this workhorse will handle all your cooking needs. This skillet seamlessly transitions between tasks from searing, roasting, and baking to frying and broiling. It’s become my go-to for everything from hearty breakfasts to sumptuous Sunday dinners.
The thick cast iron construction gives this skillet quite a heft. At 8.26 pounds, the pan feels heavy in your hand, but the ergonomic handle design allows for effortless handling and maneuvering, even when the skillet is filled with sumptuous offerings. Crafted for durability, the Cuisinel cast iron skillet will withstand rigorous daily use. Whether cooking on the stovetop or finishing dishes in the oven, you can count on this skillet to enhance your culinary prowess. I love its timeless design that combines rustic elegance and modern functionality because it’s redefined my cooking experience.
Pros: What We Love About It
- It’s Teflon-free
- It comes with a silicone handle
- Made from high-quality material
- Pre-seasoned and oven safe
- Made in the USA
- Available in different sizes
Con’s: What We Hate About It
- It’s too heavy for one-handed flips.
- Requires frequent seasoning
2. Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet
After reading a slew of great reviews about Lodge—a cast iron cookware maker for more than 125 years, I was super excited to add their 10.25-inch pre-seasoned skillet to my growing induction cookware. I was a little miffed when I noticed a rust spot inside the skillet since it meant I couldn’t use it immediately. After scrubbing and seasoning the skillet—it’s become my go-to breakfast skillet. It makes roasting or pan-frying on the induction cooktop an exciting and rewarding experience.
At 5.35 pounds, its heavy and durable construction turns out perfectly cooked eggs – from sunny-side-up to scrambled to omelets—every time. The flared sides more than compensate for the lost flipping ability. It allows for easy spatula insertion when you need to flip a hamburger patty, pancake, or bacon, while the bent lip ensures you never make a mess when pouring out oil or gravy from the skillet. Since it’s only 2 inches deep, this pre-seasoned cast iron skillet isn’t ideal for stews or dishes with lots of fluids. However, it’s your trusty companion when frying, baking, grilling or roasting and will easily transition between your induction cooktop and your oven.
Pros: What We Love About It
- Sturdy and durable
- Quality pre-seasoning
- Exceptional heat distribution
- It’s made in America
- Versatile and easy to clean
- Oven safe
Con’s: What We Hate About It
- Weighing over 5 pounds, it takes a while to get comfortable cooking with it.
3. Victoria 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet
The Victoria 10-inch cast iron skillet holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s super-efficient and over-delivers. Grab this skillet or two if you need a cast iron pan with all the premium features at a steal. I must admit I bought this skillet after watching a celebrity chef on TV—it checked every feature he recommended. Premium features in a cast iron skillet include lightweight composition, a long offset handle, a second handle, pouring spouts, and a smooth seasoning. Typically, such pot will set you back hundreds of dollars—not this one—and checks every box.
At 2.4 pounds, this skillet is a joy to use if you prefer flipping your eggs or simply want a break from the heavier induction cookware. It boasts a flat bottom and long ergonomic handle that stays relatively cool even after extended cooking. The second handle is a godsend when using the skillet from the oven to the table, as it allows for safe handling and eliminates messy accidents. Of note is the seasoning quality on this skillet—treat it right, and you’ll never need to scrap burnt food off your pan again. Grab one of these if you don’t have beefy hands or need to enjoy sumptuous low-fat meals.
Pros: What We Love About It
- Super lightweight, sturdy, and durable
- Long curved handle for exceptional handling
- Exceptionally smooth and stable seasoning
- A second handle and pour spouts
- Ideal for meats, stir-fries, and eggs
Con’s: What We Hate About It
- It’s a bit too light for my liking, but that doesn’t affect its cooking prowess.
4. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Handle Skillet
I was hesitant to try out enameled cast iron skillets, and boy, was I in for a surprise. My wife got me the Le Creuset enameled cast iron with a signature handle as an anniversary gift. But deep down, I know it was a thoughtful gesture to save me the hassle of seasoning my traditional cast iron skillets. Although it set her back quite a bundle—this enameled cast iron skillet is worth every penny. For starters, it marries timeless elegance with unparalleled performance. The vibrant enamel exterior makes the pan a durable and functional work of art, while a black satin enamel coat on the cooking surface adds matchless convenience. It’s a perfect choice if you love cast iron skillets but can’t stand the thought of having smoke billowing out of the oven while attempting to season one.
The enameled cast iron requires no season, and the enamel coating speeds up the healing process while improving heat distribution. Every inch of this beautiful skillet receives the same level of precise and uniform heat. I was sold on this skillet soon after searing a perfectly crusted steak that rivaled my favorite restaurant—it’s saved me big bucks since then. Due to its exceptional heat distribution, this enameled pan can help you explore various cooking techniques, from slow cooking, gentle simmering to high-temperature searing.
Pros: What We Love about It
- Classy, beautiful, and stylish
- Exceptional heat distribution
- Superior black satin interior enamel coating
- Double handles
- Double pouring spouts
Con’s: What We Hate About It
- This skillet costs quite a bundle—well worth it—but pricey nonetheless.
5. STAUB Cast Iron Frying Pan Skillet 10-Inch Ice Blue
Beautiful, stylish, and classy are the words that came to mind when I first saw the Staub cast iron frying pan. The exquisite and vibrant enamel finish adds lets it stand out on my shelf and adds an eye-catching appeal to my induction cooking experience. Like the Le Creuset, the Staub skillet gives you all the benefits of cast iron cookware and none of the shortcomings. If anything, it provides you with browning, searing, and caramelizing superpowers. This skillet features an enameled black matte interior that improves heat distribution and retention to let you push the conventional cooking limits.
The Staub frying pan will redefine you’re cooking and dining experience. It transitions seamlessly from the stovetop to the oven and your dining table. The superior heat retention keeps food cooked perfectly, hot, and delicious until you finish the meal. It’s become my go-to pan when crafting culinary masterpieces—from frittatas to stews—that benefit from additional time on the induction stove. And it delivers flawless results that keep my taste buds signing every time.
Pros: What We Love About It
- Classy and stylish
- Double handles
- Beautiful, high gloss enamel finish
- Excellent heat distribution and retention
- Looks great on the dinner table
- Double handles
- Double pouring spouts
Con’s: What We Hate About It
- It’s priced on the higher side. But it’s worth the price tag.
6. Made In Cookware – Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
After a great experience with Le Creuset enameled cast iron skillet, I thought adding another French brand to my induction cookware prudent. And I wasn’t disappointed. Although Made In isn’t as popular, its produced cast iron cookware for more than 100 years—and it shows in its product. The Made In enameled cast iron skillet is a sight to behold and highly functional. The beautiful glazing adds to the pan’s exceptional heat distribution and retention to help you deliver perfectly cooked goodies each time. The interior coating on each skillet is hand-applied by skilled artisans to give it a smooth non-stick surface optimized for grilling, high-heat frying, and searing.
At 7.62 pounds, this skillet is heavier than most, but thanks to the enamel coating, it doesn’t take forever to heat. Prop it on the induction stovetop, and it’ll be piping hot and ready without trying your patience. While it lacks pour lips, the sides are gently sloped to help you easily turn the food with a spatula. I love that I can use it from the kitchen to the dining table, where it easily becomes the centerpiece while keeping the food warm until were done eating.
Pros: What We Love About It
- Double handles
- Hand applied enamel
- Classy and beautiful enamel finish
- Sturdy and durable
- Made in France
- Exceptional heat distribution and retention
Con’s: What We Hate About It
- Lacks pouring spouts
- It’s heavy
- It’s relatively shallow
Honorable Mentions – Other Great Cast Iron and Skillets You’ll Love
I reviewed the above cast iron pans and skillets that are good for your induction hob, but there are other dozens of options out there that you’ll love. If you are looking to get a good collection or the above options didn’t suit your needs, you can also check out the following:
How To Choose the Best Cast Iron Pans and Skillets for Induction Stovetops
Unlike other cooktops, induction stovetops have specific cookware requirements and are incompatible with some cast iron pans and skillets. Here’s what you should consider when getting your next set:
Check for Induction Compatibility
Since induction cooking relies on a magnetic field to generate heat directly in the cookware, your cast iron pan must be magnetic. A non-magnetic pot can’t work on an induction hob. You can determine if a cast iron pan is induction compatible with a simple magnet test. Hold a magnet to the bottom of the pan—if it sticks firmly, the pan will work flawlessly.
According to the assistant deal of the College of Food Innovation & Technology at Johnson & Wales University, Gill Stansfield, the simple trick is grabbing a magnet and placing it at the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, it will work. If not, you’ll likely need another one.
“The most important consideration for cooking with an induction appliance is owning cookware that’s made of ferromagnetic metal, such as cast iron or some types of stainless steel,” headed.
Ensure the Cookware is Flat-bottomed
The best-cast iron pots for induction cooking have a flat bottom to maximize contact with the cooktop’s hob for even heating. If the bottom of the cast iron isn’t flat, your food may cook evenly, or the pot may vibrate and damage the cooking surface.
Consider the Size of the Cast Iron Pan
Pan size is vital since induction cooktops come with different-sized cooking zones. You must choose a cast iron pot that matches the size of your stovetop. If the pan is too large or small, it may heat unevenly and ruin your food.
Choose a Reputable Brand
Established brands have superior manufacturing processes, seasoning techniques, and quality control and are likely to produce high-quality cast iron cookware. Popular brands include Cuisinel, Lodge, Victoria, Made-in, Le Creuset, and Staub.
Final Thoughts
Whether a novice home cook or a seasoned chef, getting the best-cast iron pans and skillets for an induction cooktop will heighten your culinary experience. The best induction cookware lets you harness the absolute temperature control of an induction stovetop and turn each ingredient into a mouthwatering feast. Whether you prefer the authenticity of the traditional cast iron skillets or the convenience of the enameled cast iron pans, you’re guaranteed great results either way. Alternatively, you can build a collection of induction-friendly cookware with bare cast iron and enameled cast iron skillets and have the best of both worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes a Cast Iron Pan Suitable for Induction?
Induction-compatible cast iron pans have a flat and magnetic base. The magnetic property allows them to interact with the induction cooktop’s electromagnetic field and heat up.
What Size Cast Iron Pan Should I Choose?
The size depends on your cooking needs. A versatile option is a 10-12 inch skillet, which can accommodate a variety of dishes.
Should I Choose Enameled or Unseasoned Cast Iron?
Both options are suitable for induction cooking. Enameled cast iron is easier to maintain as it doesn’t require seasoning, but unseasoned cast iron develops a natural non-stick patina over time.
Do I Need to Season an Unseasoned Cast Iron Pan?
It’s recommended to season unseasoned cast iron before using it. This process involves applying a thin layer of oil and baking the pan to create a non-stick coating.
Do I Need to Care for Cast Iron Pans Differently on an Induction Cooktop?
The care for cast iron pans on an induction cooktop is similar to other cooking methods. Avoid dropping the pan on the cooktop, and use heat-resistant gloves or pot holders when handling the hot handle.
Can I Use High Heat with Cast Iron on Induction?
Yes, cast iron pans are well-suited for high-heat cooking on induction cooktops. They can withstand high temperatures without warping.
How Do I Clean Cast Iron Pans After Cooking?
After cooking, let the pan cool slightly. Rinse with warm water and scrub gently using a soft brush or sponge. Avoid using soap, as it can strip away the seasoning. Dry the pan thoroughly to prevent rust.
Can I Cook Acidic Foods in Cast Iron Pans on Induction?
Yes, but use caution with highly acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus, etc.). Extended exposure to acidity can affect the seasoning. It’s advisable to avoid prolonged simmering of acidic dishes.
