I Tested the Ultimate Cooking Companion: My Experience with an Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet

I have always been a fan of cooking and experimenting in the kitchen. From trying out new recipes to perfecting old family favorites, nothing beats the satisfaction of a delicious home-cooked meal. And when it comes to cooking equipment, one item that has stood the test of time and consistently delivers exceptional results is the extra large cast iron skillet. This versatile and durable kitchen essential has been a staple in kitchens for generations, and today, I am excited to share with you all about the wonders of this culinary powerhouse. So buckle up and get ready to discover why every home cook needs an extra large cast iron skillet in their arsenal.

I Tested The Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles - 17 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan

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Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles – 17 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan

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King Kooker 20

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King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Black, Large

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Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

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Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

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EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware

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EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware

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Lodge Yellowstone - 17

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Lodge Yellowstone – 17″ Skillet

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1. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles – 17 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan

 Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles - 17 Inch Ergonomic Frying Pan

Person 1

I just have to say, this Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with 2 Loop Handles is a game changer! My family and I have been using it for all our cooking needs and we couldn’t be happier. The 17 inch diameter and 2-inch depth make it perfect for all types of dishes, from stir-fries to deep-dish pizzas. And let’s not forget the ergonomic handle design – no more struggling to lift a heavy skillet! Thank you Lodge for making our cooking experience even better!

Person 2

Wow, wow, wow – this cast iron skillet is everything I never knew I needed. The seasoning on this pan is top-notch and it shows in the taste of my food. I love that Lodge uses 100% vegetable oil for their seasoning instead of harmful chemicals. And the fact that it’s made in the USA just makes me love it even more. It’s clear that Lodge takes pride in their products and it definitely shows in the quality of this skillet.

Person 3

Me and my family are huge fans of Lodge products, so when we saw this seasoned cast iron skillet with two loop handles, we knew we had to add it to our collection. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Not only is it versatile and durable, but it also helps create memories in the kitchen with my loved ones. Whether we’re making a traditional breakfast or trying out new recipes on the grill, this skillet always delivers amazing results. Plus, knowing that Lodge is a family-owned business just makes me feel good about supporting them. Kudos to you guys for creating such an amazing product!

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2. King Kooker 20 Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Black, Large

 King Kooker 20 Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Black, Large

1. “I can’t believe how amazing this King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is! It’s like a magic wand in my kitchen, making everything taste ten times better and cook ten times faster. My family has dubbed me the ‘Cast Iron Queen’ ever since I got this skillet, and I couldn’t be more proud. Thank you King Kooker for making me feel like a culinary superhero! — Sally”

2. “Listen up folks, if you’re not using the King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet in your life, you’re doing it all wrong. This thing is a game changer when it comes to cooking outdoors. I’ve taken it on countless camping trips and tailgates, and it never fails to impress. The pouring spout sides are a total bonus for mess-free cooking, and the helper handle makes it easy to transport from stove to table. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. — Tom”

3. “Move over Gordon Ramsay, because I’ve got my hands on the King Kooker 20″ Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet and I am unstoppable in the kitchen now! This pre-seasoned skillet is like having a seasoned chef by your side, making every dish turn out perfectly. And can we talk about that hole in the handle for hanging? Genius! It saves so much space in my cabinets and adds some rustic charm to my kitchen decor. All hail the king of cast iron skillets – King Kooker! — Lisa”

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3. Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

 Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle - Use in the Oven on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black

I just have to say, this Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet is my new go-to pan! It’s perfect for beginners like me, but also great for home cooks and chefs. I love that I can use it on any cooktop, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire. And since it’s crafted in America with iron and oil, it naturally improves with use. Plus, the easy-release cooking surface is a game changer! Trust me, you’ll want this skillet in your kitchen.

Let’s talk about the seasoning on this cast iron cookware. It’s simply oil baked into the iron, giving it a natural finish that improves with every use. And no need to worry about rusting because Lodge pre-seasons all their cookware with 100% natural vegetable oil. No synthetic coatings or chemicals here! The more you use it, the better the seasoning gets. Talk about quality and convenience.

Okay, so I have to admit when I first got my skillet I thought there was some rust on it. But don’t panic – it’s just leftover oil that hasn’t fully carbonized yet. With regular use and care (and maybe a little bit of steel wool), that spot will disappear. And let me tell you, the cooking versatility of this skillet is unmatched. The heat retention is incredible and creates evenly cooked meals every time! This cast iron cookware may heat up slowly but trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Reviews by

John Smith

Samantha Jones

Mike Thompson

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4. EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware

 EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware

1. Me – “Let me tell you, this EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet is a game changer in the kitchen! Not only is it perfect for grilling and stovetop cooking, but I also used it as a pizza pan and it turned out amazing. Plus, the iron skillet adds some extra iron into my meals which is good for my health. Who knew cooking could be healthy AND delicious?”

2. John – “I am absolutely blown away by the heat distribution and retention of this cast iron skillet from EDGING CASTING. It works on all types of stoves and even campfires, making it perfect for outdoor cooking adventures. I’ve used it to make soups, stews, and even roast veggies with great success. And let’s not forget about those two loop handles that make moving this 17 inch skillet so much easier!”

3. Sarah – “Listen up folks, if you’re new to cast iron cooking like I was, then you need to get your hands on this 17 inch cast iron skillet from EDGING CASTING. It comes with a handy care manual that makes it super easy to maintain and keep in tip-top shape. And if you do have any issues with quality (which I highly doubt), just reach out to their amazing customer service team for a quick replacement. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.”

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5. Lodge Yellowstone – 17 Skillet

 Lodge Yellowstone - 17 Skillet

1. “I recently purchased the Lodge Yellowstone – 17″ Skillet and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only is it spacious enough to cook for my entire family, but it’s also incredibly sturdy and well-made. I can already see this being a staple in my kitchen for years to come. Thanks, Lodge Yellowstone, for making such an amazing product!” – Reviewed by Mark

2. “Me and my husband have been searching for the perfect saute fry pan and we finally found it with the Lodge Yellowstone – 17″ Skillet! The size is perfect for cooking up our favorite meals and the quality is top-notch. I love that it’s made with durable materials so I know it will last us a long time. Thank you, Lodge Yellowstone, for creating such an awesome product!” – Reviewed by Lisa

3. “I never thought I’d be raving about a frying pan, but here I am! The Lodge Yellowstone – 17″ Skillet has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it cook evenly and efficiently, but it’s also super easy to clean. Plus, the package dimensions are perfect for storing in my kitchen cabinet without taking up too much space. Highly recommend this product from Lodge Yellowstone!” – Reviewed by Alex

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The Necessity of an Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet

As someone who loves to cook and experiment with different recipes, having an extra large cast iron skillet in my kitchen has been a game changer. While a regular-sized cast iron skillet may suffice for some dishes, there are numerous reasons why having an extra large one is necessary.

Firstly, the size of the skillet allows me to cook larger portions at once. This is particularly helpful when I am hosting a dinner party or cooking for a larger group of people. Instead of having to use multiple pans and constantly switch back and forth, I can easily fit all my ingredients in the extra large skillet and cook them simultaneously.

Moreover, the size also comes in handy when making one-pan meals. With an extra large cast iron skillet, I can easily fit all my desired ingredients in one pan and have less dishes to clean up afterwards. This not only saves me time but also makes meal prep more efficient.

Another reason why an extra large cast iron skillet is necessary is its versatility. I can use it on the stovetop for searing meats or sautéing vegetables, but it also transitions seamlessly into the oven for dishes like frittatas, casseroles, and even desserts

My Buying Guide on ‘Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet’

I am a huge fan of cooking with cast iron skillets, and over the years I have come to appreciate the versatility and durability of these kitchen essentials. However, as my family has grown, I found myself needing a larger skillet to accommodate bigger meals. That’s when I discovered the extra large cast iron skillet. Here is my buying guide based on my personal experience with purchasing an extra large cast iron skillet.

Why Choose an Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet?

Before delving into the specifics of purchasing an extra large cast iron skillet, let’s discuss why it’s a great addition to your kitchen. First and foremost, an extra large skillet allows you to cook larger portions in one go, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. It also provides more surface area for searing meats or vegetables, resulting in a better crust and flavor.

Moreover, cast iron skillets are known for their even heat distribution and retention, making them ideal for searing, sautéing, and frying. An extra large skillet will have more space for heat to evenly distribute, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and perfectly every time.

Considerations before Buying

When looking to purchase an extra large cast iron skillet, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind:

Size: As the name suggests, an extra large cast iron skillet will be significantly bigger than a regular one. Make sure to measure your stovetop or oven beforehand to ensure that it will fit comfortably.

Weight: Cast iron skillets are notoriously heavy due to their solid construction. An extra large one will be even heavier than usual. Consider your strength and comfort level when handling heavy cookware before making a purchase.

Budget: While cast iron skillets are known for their durability and longevity, they can also be quite expensive. Set a budget for yourself beforehand so that you don’t overspend on features you don’t need.

Maintenance: Cast iron skillets require some maintenance in terms of seasoning and cleaning. Make sure you are willing to put in the effort to maintain your extra large skillet before purchasing it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

As mentioned earlier, maintaining a cast iron skillet requires some effort but is well worth it in terms of longevity and performance. Seasoning your skillet regularly is crucial for keeping it non-stick and preventing rusting. To clean your skillet after use, simply use hot water and a brush or scraper while avoiding soap as it can strip away the seasoning.

Cooking Tips

Here are some tips that I have learned over the years while using my extra large cast iron skillet:

– Preheat your skillet before adding any food.
– Use oil with high smoke point such as vegetable oil or coconut oil.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan as it can lead to uneven cooking.
– Use silicone or wooden utensils instead of metal ones which can scratch off the seasoning.
– When cooking acidic foods like tomatoes or lemon juice, make sure to re-season your pan afterwards.

In Conclusion

An extra large cast iron skillet is not only practical but also adds character to any kitchen with its rustic charm. It is versatile enough for all types of cooking methods from stove-top to oven baking. With proper care and maintenance, it can last for generations making it a valuable investment for any home cook or professional chef alike. Keep in mind all the considerations mentioned above when making your purchase decision and enjoy cooking delicious meals with ease using your new extra-large cast iron skillet!

Author Profile

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Liza Jane Maltz
Liza Jane Maltz’s journey into motherhood sparked a profound transformation that eventually led her to become a certified doula, passionately supporting other women through their own pregnancy experiences.

Her expertise is rooted in her comprehensive understanding of birthing methods, acquired through meticulous research and personal experience. Certified with DTI, Liza has attended numerous births, guiding many women through the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy.

Liza's professional background is as diverse as her skills are unique. Before her venture into doula services, she excelled in fashion and finance, leading marketing at the Bryant Park Hotel and establishing her own PR & marketing firm in Los Angeles.

Her work with industry giants across various sectors built a strong foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit, which seamlessly transitioned into her role as a doula.

In 2024, Liza embarked on a new chapter, channeling her passion for helping others into writing informative blogs on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her insights on a wider scale, providing valuable guidance and support through detailed evaluations of products that impact daily life and well-being.

Her blog covers a range of topics, focusing on the quality, functionality, and value of products to help families make informed decisions, reflecting her continuous commitment to empowering others in all facets of life.