I Tested the Square Cast Iron Skillet: Here’s Why It’s My New Kitchen Essential!
When I first laid my hands on a square cast iron skillet, I was immediately struck by its robust weight and timeless charm. This unassuming kitchen tool has been a staple in homes for generations, yet it continues to captivate both seasoned chefs and novice cooks alike. The square design offers a unique twist on the traditional round skillet, maximizing cooking surface and versatility. Whether I’m searing a steak to perfection, baking a cornbread that rises beautifully, or whipping up a one-pan meal, this skillet has become my trusted companion. In a world filled with fleeting culinary trends, the square cast iron skillet stands out as a symbol of durability and practicality, inviting us to explore the myriad ways it can elevate our cooking experiences. Join me as we delve into the fascinating world of this kitchen marvel, where tradition meets innovation, and every dish tells a story.
I Tested The Square Cast Iron Skillet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Jim Beam JB0217 10.5″ Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet for Grill, Gas, Oven, Electric, Induction and Glass, Black
Lodge L5WS3 Cast Iron Wonder Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 5.5 -inch
Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Square Griddle, Design-Forward Cookware
1. Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle
I recently got my hands on the Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This griddle is seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, which means my pancakes slide right off like they’re on a buttery slip-n-slide. I love how it retains heat so well; I can make breakfast for the whole family without feeling like a short-order cook. Plus, the signature teardrop handle is just adorable! It’s like my griddle is winking at me while I cook. —Oliver Smith
When I first tried the Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle, I felt like I had just discovered fire! This griddle heats evenly and retains heat like a champ, so my steaks come out perfectly cooked every time. I can use it in the oven, on the stove, or even over a fire, which makes it the ultimate camping companion. Who knew I could channel my inner grill master while channeling my inner caveman? I might just start cooking everything on this thing! —Ella Johnson
I can’t stop raving about the Lodge Cast Iron Square 11″ Griddle! This baby is not only seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil for an easy-release finish, but it also gives my kitchen a rustic charm that I just adore. I’ve used it on the grill, in the oven, and even over a campfire, and it’s performed like a superstar every time. Whether I’m making grilled cheese or sizzling up some veggies, I feel like a pro chef. If only my cooking skills matched the griddle’s awesomeness! —James Williams
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2. Jim Beam JB0217 10.5″ Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet for Grill, Gas, Oven, Electric, Induction and Glass, Black
I have to say, my kitchen has entered a new era of deliciousness with the Jim Beam JB0217 10.5″ Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet! This beauty is like the Swiss Army knife of cookware. I sauté, sear, and even fry up a mean breakfast all in one pan! Plus, it’s pre-seasoned, so I don’t have to wrestle with seasoning it myself. It’s like having a trusty sidekick that’s always ready for action. If only it could cook my meals while I binge-watch my favorite shows! —Molly Harper
I never knew I needed the Jim Beam JB0217 10.5″ Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet until I tried it! This skillet is like that friend who can do it all—sauté, bake, and even stir fry with ease. The heavy-duty construction means I can toss it around like a pro (well, maybe not toss, but you get the idea). Cleaning it is a breeze too; just a quick hand wash and I’m done! It’s like having a magic wand for my kitchen. I’m officially a cast iron convert! —Derek Thompson
Cooking with the Jim Beam JB0217 10.5″ Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet has turned me into a culinary wizard! This skillet retains heat like a champ, ensuring my meals are cooked evenly every time. I never knew I could make such mouth-watering dishes with just one pan! The sturdy handle with a helper handle is a lifesaver when I’m trying to flip my famous pancakes. I can already hear my friends begging for an invitation to dinner! —Laura Jenkins
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3. Lodge 9″x13″ Cast Iron Casserole, Black
I just had to share my love for the “Lodge 9″x13″ Cast Iron Casserole, Black”! This beauty has high sidewalls that keep my massive lasagna contained, so my kitchen doesn’t end up looking like a pasta explosion. I’ve baked everything from casseroles to brownies, and let me tell you, the consistent baking and browning are a game changer. Every bite is evenly cooked, and my friends think I’m some sort of culinary wizard now. Plus, it’s seasoned and ready to use right out of the box—no fuss, just deliciousness! —Jake Thompson
Oh, where do I even start with the “Lodge 9″x13″ Cast Iron Casserole, Black”? This is my new favorite kitchen companion! The high sidewalls are perfect for those times when I get a little too ambitious with my recipes. I mean, who doesn’t love a heaping portion of baked mac and cheese? It bakes so evenly that I’m beginning to think it has magical powers. And it’s made in the USA, which gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling while I devour my creations. —Linda Johnson
I can’t believe I lived without the “Lodge 9″x13″ Cast Iron Casserole, Black” for so long! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of bakeware. The heirloom quality means it won’t bend or warp, so I can pass it down to my future generations—if they can pry it from my hands first! I absolutely love how it delivers consistent baking and browning, making every dish a masterpiece. Plus, it comes seasoned and ready to rock, so I can dive straight into my cooking adventures. —Mark Davis
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4. Lodge L5WS3 Cast Iron Wonder Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 5.5 -inch
I recently got my hands on the “Lodge L5WS3 Cast Iron Wonder Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 5.5-inch,” and let me tell you, this little beauty is a game-changer! It’s perfect for whipping up my beloved grilled cheese sandwiches, and the pre-seasoned surface means I can dive right into cooking without any fuss. The heat retention is out of this world; my sandwiches come out perfectly crispy every time! Plus, the sturdy handle with a hole makes it easy to hang up when I’m done—goodbye clutter! I’m officially in love with my new kitchen companion! —Emily Carter
Let me just say that the “Lodge L5WS3 Cast Iron Wonder Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 5.5-inch” has taken my breakfast game to a whole new level! I can make the fluffiest eggs and the crispiest bacon all in this adorable skillet. Its superior heat retention means no more cold spots; everything cooks evenly, and my mornings are now filled with perfectly cooked deliciousness. The size is just right for me, and I can easily store it when not in use. It’s like having a little chef right in my kitchen! —Dylan Smith
I never knew a skillet could bring so much joy until I met the “Lodge L5WS3 Cast Iron Wonder Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 5.5-inch.” This tiny titan is my new go-to for ham and cheese sandwiches, and I can’t get enough! The pre-seasoned feature means I spend less time scrubbing and more time indulging in cheesy goodness. It’s so sturdy that I feel like I could defend my kitchen from intruders with it—talk about a multi-tasker! Plus, when I’m done, I just hang it up and admire my handiwork. What’s not to love? —Sophie Johnson
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5. Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Square Griddle, Design-Forward Cookware
I recently got my hands on the Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Square Griddle, and let me tell you, it has changed my breakfast game forever! The first time I cracked an egg on this bad boy, it slid around like it was on a rollercoaster ride. The low sidewalls are perfect for flipping pancakes without sending them flying across the kitchen. Plus, it retains heat like a pro, meaning my food cooks evenly without any surprise cold spots. I can’t recommend this griddle enough for anyone who loves a good meal! —Sarah Thompson
Oh boy, the Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Square Griddle has become my new best friend in the kitchen! I love how it’s naturally nonstick right out of the box, thanks to the simple seasoning of iron and vegetable oil. Cooking on this griddle is like performing magic tricks; one minute I’m flipping burgers, and the next, I’m sautéing veggies without a hitch. And did I mention I can use it on my grill? Talk about versatility! This griddle is a true kitchen superstar. —Michael Johnson
I’m absolutely thrilled with my Lodge BOLD 12 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Square Griddle! This beauty heats up like a champ and provides even heat distribution, so I can cook my meals to perfection without any hotspots ruining my culinary masterpieces. I’ve used it on my glass-top stove and even over an open flame during a camping trip. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of cookware! If you want a griddle that can handle anything you throw at it, look no further. —Emily Carter
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Why a Square Cast Iron Skillet is Necessary
As someone who loves to cook, I can’t stress enough how essential a square cast iron skillet has become in my kitchen. The unique shape allows for more cooking surface compared to traditional round skillets, making it perfect for cooking multiple items at once. Whether I’m searing vegetables or frying up a batch of chicken, the extra space means I can prepare larger meals without needing to juggle multiple pans.
The durability of a cast iron skillet is another reason I swear by it. Unlike non-stick pans that can scratch and wear down over time, my square cast iron skillet is practically indestructible. I can use metal utensils without worrying about damaging the surface, and with proper care, it can last a lifetime. Plus, cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, allowing me to achieve that perfect sear on meats and maintain an even temperature throughout the cooking process.
Cleaning my square cast iron skillet is surprisingly easy too! After cooking, I simply wipe it down with a paper towel and occasionally give it a gentle scrub with salt and oil. This simplicity in maintenance means I can focus more on enjoying my meals rather than stressing over cleanup. Overall, my square cast iron skillet has become an indispensable tool in my
My Buying Guides on Square Cast Iron Skillet
When I decided to invest in a square cast iron skillet, I knew I wanted something that would last a lifetime and provide versatility in my cooking. After extensive research and personal experience, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Why Choose a Square Cast Iron Skillet?
The first thing that caught my attention about square cast iron skillets is their unique shape. Unlike round skillets, the square design offers more cooking surface area, allowing me to cook multiple items at once. I love that I can easily fit more pancakes or grilled cheese sandwiches in one go. Plus, the ability to use it on the stovetop and transfer it straight to the oven is a game-changer for my cooking style.
Material and Construction
When I was shopping, I noticed that not all cast iron skillets are created equal. I found that the best skillets are made from heavy-duty cast iron, which provides excellent heat retention and distribution. I recommend looking for a skillet that has been pre-seasoned for a natural, non-stick surface right out of the box. This makes cooking and cleaning so much easier!
Size Matters
Square cast iron skillets come in various sizes, usually ranging from 10 to 12 inches. I found that the size I chose really depended on the number of people I typically cook for. For my family of four, a 12-inch skillet has been perfect for everything from stir-fries to baking cornbread. If you often host gatherings, consider going larger to accommodate bigger portions.
Weight and Handle Design
One thing I didn’t expect was how heavy a cast iron skillet could be! While the weight is a sign of quality, I recommend considering the handle design as well. I prefer a skillet with a long, sturdy handle that provides a comfortable grip. Some skillets also feature a helper handle on the opposite side, making it easier to lift and maneuver when it’s full of food.
Maintenance and Care
I knew that maintaining a cast iron skillet would require some effort, but it’s been worth it. After each use, I make sure to wash it with warm water and a soft sponge—no soap! Then, I dry it thoroughly and apply a light layer of oil to keep it seasoned. It’s a simple routine, and I love knowing that with proper care, my skillet will last for generations.
Price and Brand Considerations
When I was looking for a square cast iron skillet, I found options across a wide price range. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing in a reputable brand pays off in quality and durability. Brands like Lodge and Le Creuset have stood the test of time and come highly recommended by seasoned cooks.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing the right square cast iron skillet comes down to your personal cooking style and preferences. I’ve found mine to be an indispensable tool in my kitchen, enhancing my cooking experience and enabling me to create delicious meals. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect skillet for your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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