What to Use on a Cast Iron Skillet for Best Results

Using a cast iron skillet can transform your cooking, giving your dishes a unique flavor and perfect sear every time. But to get the most out of your skillet, you need to know what to use on it. Whether you’re seasoning, cleaning, or cooking, the right products and techniques make all the difference.

You might be wondering what oils or fats work best, or how to keep your skillet non-stick and rust-free. Understanding these basics will help you maintain your skillet’s performance and extend its life. Let’s dive into the essentials of what to use on your cast iron skillet to keep it in top shape and ready for any recipe.

Understanding Cast Iron Skillets

Cast iron skillets offer unique advantages and require specific care to ensure lasting performance. Knowing their benefits and challenges helps you maximize their potential in your kitchen.

Benefits of Using Cast Iron

• Durability: Cast iron skillets often last for decades due to their robust construction.
• Heat retention: They maintain consistent heat, perfect for searing meats or frying.
• Versatility: You can use them on stovetops, ovens, grills, and even campfires.
• Natural non-stick surface: Properly seasoned cast iron develops a smooth, non-stick layer.
• Flavor enhancement: They improve the taste of food by evenly distributing heat and creating flavorful crusts.

Common Challenges with Cast Iron Care

• Rust: Exposure to moisture leads to rust, which degrades the skillet’s surface.
• Maintenance: Regular seasoning is essential to maintain the skillet’s non-stick properties.
• Cleaning restrictions: Harsh detergents or soaking can damage the seasoning.
• Weight and handling: Cast iron skillets are heavy, requiring care during use and storage.
• Thermal shock: Sudden temperature changes may cause cracking or warping, so gradual heating and cooling are important.

What To Use for Seasoning a Cast Iron Skillet

Seasoning a cast iron skillet creates a protective, non-stick layer essential for its performance and durability. Choosing the right oils and following a proper seasoning process helps build this layer effectively.

Best Oils for Seasoning

Use oils with high smoke points and stable oxidation properties for seasoning. Flaxseed oil, grapeseed oil, and avocado oil rank highly due to their ability to polymerize and create a durable coating. Vegetable oil and canola oil also work well, offering affordability and accessibility. Avoid oils like olive oil or butter, which can leave sticky residues because of lower smoke points. Using oils with smoke points above 400°F (204°C) ensures optimal seasoning results.

Step-by-Step Seasoning Process

1. Clean your skillet thoroughly with warm water and mild soap, removing rust or food residue.
2. Dry the skillet completely to avoid moisture trapping, which causes rust.
3. Apply a thin, even layer of your chosen oil over the entire skillet surface, including the handle and exterior.
4. Place the skillet upside down on the middle oven rack to prevent oil pooling, lining the lower rack with foil to catch drips.
5. Heat the skillet in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for one hour, allowing the oil to polymerize into a protective coating.
6. Turn off the oven and let the skillet cool inside for at least one hour, avoiding sudden temperature changes.
7. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times for a strong, smooth seasoning layer that improves non-stick properties and rust resistance.

What To Use for Cooking on a Cast Iron Skillet

Choose cooking fats and foods that complement your cast iron skillet’s seasoning and heat retention. Using the right materials preserves the skillet’s surface and enhances your dishes’ flavor and texture.

Ideal Types of Fats and Oils

Select fats and oils with high smoke points to protect your skillet’s seasoning and prevent burnt residues. Avocado oil (smoke point 520°F), grapeseed oil (420°F), and refined coconut oil (450°F) excel for searing and frying. Use vegetable shortening or rendered animal fats like lard and tallow for traditional seasoning methods and richer flavor profiles. Avoid olive oil and butter on high heat as their low smoke points (320°F–375°F) cause sticky, polymerized layers that degrade the seasoning.

Foods That Work Best on Cast Iron

Cook recipes requiring even heat and a sturdy surface, such as seared steaks, pork chops, and chicken breasts, to maximize the skillet’s benefits. Sauté vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms evenly without sticking. Use it for frying eggs, cornbread, and pancakes once well-seasoned to exploit its natural non-stick properties. Avoid highly acidic foods such as tomatoes or vinegar-based sauces when your seasoning needs reinforcement, as acid can erode the protective layer over time.

What To Use for Cleaning a Cast Iron Skillet

Maintaining your cast iron skillet’s seasoning requires proper cleaning methods and tools. Using safe cleaning practices protects the skillet’s surface and prevents rust.

Safe Cleaning Tools and Methods

Use a stiff nylon brush or non-metal scrubber to remove food residue without damaging the seasoning. Apply coarse kosher salt as a natural abrasive to scrub away stuck-on bits effectively. Rinse the skillet with hot water immediately after cooking to avoid stuck residue. Dry the skillet completely with a towel or by heating it on the stove over low heat to prevent moisture buildup. Apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil, like flaxseed or grapeseed oil, after cleaning and drying to maintain the protective seasoning layer.

What To Avoid When Cleaning

Avoid using soap or harsh detergents as they strip the seasoning layer and expose the skillet to rust. Skip metal scouring pads or steel wool since they remove the seasoning and cause scratches. Never soak the skillet in water for extended periods to prevent rust formation. Do not put your cast iron in the dishwasher, which uses harsh chemicals and prolonged water exposure that deteriorate the skillet’s surface. Avoid abrasive chemical cleaners and bleach, as they damage the seasoning and reduce your skillet’s lifespan.

Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet Over Time

Maintaining your cast iron skillet ensures it performs well and lasts for generations. Consistent care and timely re-seasoning protect its non-stick surface and prevent damage.

Regular Care Tips

Clean your skillet immediately after use by rinsing with hot water and scrubbing with a stiff nylon brush or non-metal scrubber. Avoid soap and metal scouring pads, which can strip seasoning. Dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel or heat it on the stove to remove moisture. Apply a thin layer of oil, such as avocado or grapeseed oil, after each cleaning to reinforce the seasoning and prevent rust. Store your skillet in a dry place with good air circulation, avoiding stacking heavy items on top that could damage the surface.

Re-Seasoning and Repairing

Re-season your skillet when food starts to stick or you notice rust spots. Start by scrubbing away rust or food residue using coarse kosher salt and a damp scrubber. Rinse and dry completely before applying a thin, even coat of high-smoke-point oil. Bake the skillet upside down in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for one hour to build a durable seasoning layer. Repeat this process two to three times if necessary. For deep rust or damage, strip the skillet down using a self-cleaning oven cycle or steel wool before re-seasoning to restore its surface and performance.

Conclusion

Your cast iron skillet is a versatile tool that, with the right care and materials, can elevate your cooking for years. Choosing the proper oils and fats, following effective seasoning methods, and maintaining your skillet through careful cleaning will keep it performing at its best.

By understanding how to protect and use your skillet properly, you’ll enjoy its unmatched heat retention and natural non-stick surface. This attention to detail ensures your cast iron remains a reliable kitchen companion that enhances every meal you prepare.