Discover the top 3 cast iron skillets for home chefs in 2025. Compare Nuovva, Lodge, and Kichly skillets for durability, heat retention, and versatile cooking performance.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best cast iron skillets for home chefs, based on real customer feedback, cooking performance, and value for money. Our top picks include:
- nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet (Made in USA)
- KICHLY 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
We’ll compare their features, pros and cons, comparison, customers’ opinions and help you choose the right one for your kitchen.
1. nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set
Price: ~£27.99 (Limited-time deal)
Sizes Included: 15 cm (6″), 20 cm (8″), 25 cm (10″)
Material: Cast Iron
Special Feature: Non-Stick (with seasoning)
The nuovva 3-piece set is ideal for home chefs who want flexibility. With three different sizes, you can easily prepare everything from fried eggs to roast chicken. It comes pre-seasoned, but like most cast iron cookware, adding your seasoning before use will improve performance.
Key Features
- Precise Heat Distribution – Smooth finish ensures even cooking on grills, stoves, or induction cooktops.
- Versatile Cooking – Suitable for frying, baking, roasting, grilling, and sautéing both indoors and outdoors.
- Easy Maintenance – Hand wash only, no dishwasher. Re-season regularly to maintain non-stick properties.
- Great Value – Three pans for under £25 is a bargain for any kitchen.
Pros
- Affordable multi-size set
- Works on any heat source
- Excellent for both indoor and outdoor cooking
- Solid build with good heat retention
Cons
- Heavy, especially the largest pan
- Requires regular seasoning to maintain a non-stick surface
- Not dishwasher safe
Customers opinions
Cheap and versatile, ready to use, but small pans and seasoning can wear off quickly.
- PRECISE HEAT DISTRIBUTION: Our cast iron skillets have a smooth finish to help provide even heat dis…
- EASY TO CLEAN AND TO MAINTAIN: Our skillets come pre seasoned but we recommend you season before eac…
- EXTREMELY VERSATILE: You can use our premium pre-seasoned cast iron cookware over any heating source…
2. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – 10.25 Inch
Price: ~£48.89
Size: 26 cm / 10.25 inches
Made in: USA
Special Feature: Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
Lodge is one of the most trusted names in cast iron cookware, with a history dating back to 1896. This 10.25-inch skillet is perfect for everyday cooking, whether you’re frying bacon, sautéing vegetables, or baking a rustic apple pie.
Key Features
- Assist Handle – Makes lifting the heavy skillet easier.
- Pour Spouts – Two side lips for easy, mess-free pouring of sauces or oils.
- Versatility – Oven-safe, grill-safe, BBQ-safe, and compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops.
- Exceptional Heat Retention – Ensures even cooking with less energy usage.
Pros
- Iconic brand with excellent reputation
- Smooth and even cooking surface
- Long-lasting with proper care
- Perfect for searing steaks and slow-cooked dishes
Cons
- Heavier than many pans of similar size
- Handle gets very hot — silicone or leather handle covers recommended
- Requires seasoning maintenance for best results
Customers opinions
Excellent heat retention, durable, great for oven use, but heavy and pricey.
- Ideal size for frying meat and sauteing vegetables
- Features an assist handle so that the skillet frying pan can be easily lifted and maneuvered
- Two subtle side lips enable simple and mess free pouring
3. KICHLY 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Price: ~£16.99
Size: 30.5 cm / 12 inches
Special Feature: Pre-seasoned, large cooking surface, dual handles
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, extra-large cast iron skillet, the KICHLY 12-inch pan is a fantastic choice. The larger size makes it perfect for family cooking, camping, or big weekend breakfasts.
Key Features
- Large Size – Great for cooking multiple steaks or big family meals.
- Dual Handles – Easier to lift and move, especially when full.
- Excellent Heat Retention – Keeps food warm for longer after cooking.
- Oven and Stovetop Safe – Works on conventional and induction stovetops.
Pros
- Very affordable for its size
- Large cooking surface
- Durable and heavy-duty
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor cooking
Cons
- Very heavy — may be difficult for some users to lift
- The handle gets hot during cooking
- Needs frequent seasoning to prevent sticking
Customers opinions
Cheap and verLarge and budget-friendly, good for big meals, but seasoning may be uneven and handle heats up fast.satile, ready to use, but small pans and seasoning can wear off quickly.
- This 12 inches skillet pan is suitable for both coventional and induction stovetops and oven for eve…
- Hand wash before first use and dry immediately; rub with a light coating of vegetable oil after ever…
- Serve up your family recipes and relish in the aroma of the smoky lip-smacking flavor with this food…
Comparisons
| Product & Size | Price (UK) | Key Highlights | Value Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set (15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm) | £24.99 (Discounted from £39.99) (Nuovva) | Versatile 3-piece set; pre-seasoned; works on grill, oven, stove. | Excellent value—multiple sizes for under £25, ideal for diverse cooking needs. |
| Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet (10.25″ / 26 cm) | Approximately £30.76–£39.85 (lionshome.co.uk, Amazon UK, Simply Recipes) | Made in USA; assist handle; side pour lips; excellent heat retention. | Trusted, durable classic; slightly higher upfront cost but lifetimes of use. |
| KICHLY Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet (12″ / 30.5 cm) | £16.99 (lowest current UK price) (PriceRunner, Amazon UK) | Large cooking surface; dual handles for ease; pre-seasoned, induction-safe. | Most affordable per inch—great for large meals and budget-conscious buyers. |
How to Choose the Best Cast Iron Skillet
When selecting a cast iron skillet, consider these factors:
- Size – Smaller skillets (8–10 inches) are great for single servings or side dishes. Larger skillets (12 inches or more) are better for families or entertaining.
- Weight – Heavier pans retain heat better but can be harder to handle.
- Handles – Look for assist handles or dual handles for easier lifting.
- Pre-Seasoned or Bare – Pre-seasoned pans are ready to use, but even they benefit from extra seasoning before use.
- Brand Reputation – Established brands like Lodge and Le Creuset often offer better quality and finish.
Caring for Your Cast Iron Skillet
To make your skillet last for decades, follow these tips:
- Clean by hand only – Avoid dishwashers.
- Dry immediately – Prevents rust.
- Season regularly – Coat with a thin layer of oil and heat to maintain a natural non-stick coating.
- Avoid soaking – Prolonged contact with water can cause rust.
- Store in a dry place – Keep away from moisture.
Final Verdict: Best Cast Iron Skillets for Home Chefs
If you want the best all-around cast iron skillet, the Lodge 10.25-Inch is a proven, high-quality option that can last a lifetime with proper care.
If you need versatility and value, the nuovva 3-piece set gives you three different sizes for less than £25 — perfect for beginners or anyone wanting multiple options in one purchase.
For large family cooking on a budget, the KICHLY 12-inch skillet is unbeatable in terms of size-to-price ratio.
Where to Buy:
- nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set – Amazon
- Lodge 10.25-Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Amazon
- KICHLY 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Amazon
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