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10 Best Cast Iron Pans 2025 in the UK

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pans Oven Safe Cookware for Indoor & Outdoor Use - Grill, StoveTop, Black (3-Piece Chef Set 6-Inch 15cm, 8-Inch 20cm, 10-Inch 25cm)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,147
Size
Weight
Cooking Surface
Size
The pans are smaller than expected, as measurements are taken from the top rather than the base, which can affect sizing for specific recipes.
Weight
The pans are quite heavy, but offer excellent non-stick performance at a great price.
Cooking Surface
Beautifully crafted pans with excellent heat distribution and retention, though be cautious as they get very hot.
Compatibility
These skillets heat up quickly and are very worthy for their price, making them a great choice for electric hobs.

The nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pans offer a versatile and practical option for those who enjoy cooking with cast-iron cookware. With three different sizes - 15cm, 20cm, and 25cm - this set is well-suited for a variety of cooking tasks, making it an essential addition to any kitchen. The smooth finish ensures precise heat distribution across grills, stoves, and induction cooktops, enhancing the quality of cooking and frying.

While the pans arrive pre-seasoned, it's recommended to season them before each use to maintain their non-stick properties, adding a bit of effort to their maintenance. The set's compatibility with multiple heat sources, including ovens and campfires, makes it exceptionally versatile for both indoor and outdoor cooking. The handle design is not specified, but the ease of use across different cooking methods suggests it might be user-friendly.

Weighing in at 1 kg, the pans strike a balance between heft and usability, although some may find cast iron on the heavier side. Cleaning requires hand washing and careful maintenance, which might be a drawback for those preferring dishwasher-friendly cookware. However, the product’s solid construction and even heating capabilities make it a reliable choice. If you're looking for durable cookware that can handle a wide range of cooking methods and environments, these nuovva skillets are worth considering, provided you don’t mind the extra care involved in their upkeep.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,147
Size
Weight
Cooking Surface
Size
The pans are smaller than expected, as measurements are taken from the top rather than the base, which can affect sizing for specific recipes.
Weight
The pans are quite heavy, but offer excellent non-stick performance at a great price.
Cooking Surface
Beautifully crafted pans with excellent heat distribution and retention, though be cautious as they get very hot.
Compatibility
These skillets heat up quickly and are very worthy for their price, making them a great choice for electric hobs.
#3

Le Creuset Signature Enamelled Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan With Helper Handle and Two Pouring Lips, 23 cm, Volcanic, 20182230900422

Rating
9.4
Weight
Handle Design
Cooking Surface
Weight
This pan is seriously heavy, but with a good hand, it's manageable and cooks really well.
Handle Design
Be cautious with the handle; it gets hot and requires protection.
Cooking Surface
Cooking eggs isn't a nightmare if you keep the heat just above the lowest setting.

The Le Creuset Signature Enamelled Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan is a robust and versatile kitchen tool. At 23 cm in diameter and weighing 1.93 kg, its size is practical for various cooking tasks but may be a bit heavy for some users. The enamelled cast iron material is excellent for even heating and retention, making it great for frying, searing, slow cooking, and baking.

The easy-clean enamel coating and dishwasher-safe feature simplify maintenance, although some users might still prefer hand washing to preserve the enamel. The pan is compatible with all hob types, including induction, which adds to its versatility. The addition of a helper handle makes it easier to manage the weight and maneuver the pan, while the cast iron handle with a hook provides convenient storage options. However, the heat protection handle glove is sold separately, which could be seen as an additional expense.

The two pouring lips are a thoughtful design feature, making it easier to pour out liquids without spilling. With a capacity of 1.2 liters, this skillet is suitable for small to medium-sized meals. The vibrant 'Volcanic' color adds a stylish touch to any kitchen. Customer reviews are generally positive, with a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from over 3,200 ratings, indicating satisfaction with performance and quality. However, users should be mindful of its relatively high position in the best sellers rank (29,008 in Home & Kitchen), suggesting that while popular, there may be more frequently purchased alternatives available.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Handle Design
Cooking Surface
Weight
This pan is seriously heavy, but with a good hand, it's manageable and cooks really well.
Handle Design
Be cautious with the handle; it gets hot and requires protection.
Cooking Surface
Cooking eggs isn't a nightmare if you keep the heat just above the lowest setting.

Buying Guide for the Best Cast Iron Pans

Choosing the right cast-iron pan can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Cast-iron pans are known for their durability, heat retention, and versatility. They can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including frying, baking, and even grilling. When selecting a cast-iron pan, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your cooking needs.
SizeThe size of a cast-iron pan is crucial because it determines how much food you can cook at once. Sizes typically range from small (6-8 inches) to large (12-14 inches). Smaller pans are great for individual meals or side dishes, while larger pans are ideal for family-sized portions or cooking multiple items at once. Consider your typical cooking volume and the number of people you usually cook for when choosing the size.
WeightCast-iron pans are generally heavier than other types of cookware due to their dense material. The weight can affect how easy the pan is to handle, especially when it's full of food. Lighter pans (around 4-6 pounds) are easier to maneuver but may not retain heat as well as heavier ones (8-10 pounds or more). If you have difficulty lifting heavy objects, opt for a lighter pan, but if you prioritize heat retention, a heavier pan might be better.
Handle DesignThe handle design of a cast-iron pan can impact your comfort and safety while cooking. Some pans have a single long handle, while others include an additional helper handle for better grip and control. Long handles can get hot, so look for pans with heat-resistant handles or use oven mitts. If you often move your pan from stovetop to oven, a helper handle can make this easier and safer.
Pre-seasoningPre-seasoning refers to the initial layer of seasoning applied by the manufacturer to prevent rust and create a non-stick surface. Some pans come pre-seasoned, while others require you to season them yourself. Pre-seasoned pans are ready to use right out of the box, which is convenient for beginners. If you prefer to customize your seasoning or enjoy the process, an unseasoned pan might be a better choice.
Cooking SurfaceThe cooking surface of a cast-iron pan can be smooth or slightly textured. Smooth surfaces are easier to clean and provide a more uniform cooking experience, while textured surfaces can add extra grip for certain foods. If you plan to cook delicate items like fish or eggs, a smooth surface is preferable. For searing meats or creating a crust, a textured surface can be beneficial.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the cast-iron pan can be used on different types of cooktops, including gas, electric, induction, and even open flames. Most cast-iron pans are versatile and can be used on any cooktop, but it's always good to check. If you have an induction cooktop, ensure the pan is induction-compatible. This spec is important for ensuring you can use the pan with your existing kitchen setup.