Olivia Carter
So you finally got yourself a cast iron skillet and you’re excited to start cooking with it, but you’re not quite sure where to begin. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. When it comes to breaking in your new cast iron skillet, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to start with something simple that allows you to season and build up the skillet’s non-stick surface.
One of the best things to cook first in your cast iron skillet is a classic steak. There’s just something about the way a cast iron skillet sears a steak that can’t be beat. The skillet gets super hot and retains heat incredibly well, creating a beautiful crust on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Plus, the natural fats and oils from the steak help to further season the skillet and build up that coveted non-stick surface.
If you’re not a meat eater, don’t worry, there are plenty of other delicious options to try. Another great option for your first cast iron skillet dish is a simple frittata. The skillet’s even heat distribution and ability to go from stovetop to oven make it perfect for cooking up a fluffy and flavorful frittata. You can load it up with your favorite veggies, cheese, and herbs, and then pop it in the oven to finish cooking. The result is a satisfying and versatile dish that’s great for any time of day.
Perfectly Cooked Steak
When it comes to cooking a steak, there are few things better than using a cast iron skillet. The high heat retention and even distribution of heat make it the perfect tool for achieving a perfectly cooked steak every time. Whether you prefer a rare, medium-rare, or well-done steak, the cast iron skillet can deliver the tender and juicy results you’re looking for.
Before cooking your steak, it’s important to choose a good cut of meat. Look for steaks that are well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the steak moist and flavorful during cooking. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning, to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot. This will ensure a nice sear on the steak.
- Add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Place the steak in the skillet and let it sear for a few minutes on each side, until a golden brown crust forms.
- Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the steak to your desired level of doneness, flipping it occasionally.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (51°C), medium-rare 135°F (57°C), medium 145°F (63°C), medium-well 150°F (66°C), and well-done 160°F (71°C).
- Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more tender and flavorful steak.
With the right technique and a cast iron skillet, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak that is seared on the outside and juicy on the inside. So, fire up your skillet and get ready to impress your friends and family with a restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own home.
Crunchy Homemade Pizza in a Cast Iron Skillet
Pizza lovers rejoice! You don’t need a brick oven to enjoy a crispy, thin-crust pizza. With a cast iron skillet and a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious homemade pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria.
Start by making your dough. There are countless recipes available, but a classic pizza dough usually consists of flour, yeast, salt, and water. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, then let it rise until it doubles in size.
Meanwhile, preheat your cast iron skillet in the oven. The skillet will become your make-shift pizza stone, providing even heat and creating a crispy crust. Once the skillet is preheated, carefully remove it from the oven and place it on a stovetop burner over medium-high heat.
Roll out your dough into a thin circle and transfer it to the hot skillet. You’ll immediately hear the satisfying sizzle as the dough hits the hot surface. Cook the dough for a couple of minutes until it starts to bubble and develop those beautiful charred spots.
Now it’s time to add your toppings. Whether you prefer classic Margherita with fresh mozzarella and basil leaves or something more adventurous like a BBQ chicken pizza, the choice is yours. Spread your sauce, cheese, and toppings evenly over the crust.
Once your pizza is fully dressed, transfer the skillet back into the oven under the broiler. Keep a close eye on it as it will cook quickly. In just a few minutes, your pizza will be transformed into a cheesy, crispy delight.
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pizza cool for a minute or two. Then, carefully slide it onto a cutting board, slice it up, and enjoy. The cast iron skillet ensures that every bite has a perfect blend of crunch and chew, making your homemade pizza a memorable dining experience.
Restaurant-Quality Frittatas
If you’re looking to make a delicious and impressive breakfast or brunch dish, look no further than restaurant-quality frittatas. Made with a cast iron skillet, these frittatas are incredibly flavorful and have a perfectly crispy crust. They are a great way to showcase your cooking skills and impress your guests.
One of the best things about making frittatas in a cast iron skillet is that they cook evenly and retain heat well, ensuring that every bite is delicious. The skillet’s heat distribution allows the eggs to cook gently and evenly, resulting in a tender and creamy texture. Additionally, the skillet’s heat retention ensures that the frittata stays warm throughout the meal.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to the fillings for your restaurant-quality frittatas. You can use a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach, to add color and flavor to your dish. For a more indulgent option, you can incorporate ingredients like cheese, bacon, or smoked salmon. The versatility of frittatas allows you to get creative and personalize your dish to suit your taste.
To make restaurant-quality frittatas, start by preheating your cast iron skillet on the stovetop. This will ensure that the bottom of the frittata cooks evenly and develops a nice crust. Then, whisk together your eggs and add your desired fillings. Pour the mixture into the hot skillet and transfer it to the oven to finish cooking. The result will be a beautifully golden, puffy frittata that is bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or hosting a special brunch, restaurant-quality frittatas are a surefire way to impress everyone at the table. So grab your cast iron skillet and get ready to create a memorable and delicious breakfast or brunch dish.
Dutch Baby Pancake
A Dutch Baby Pancake is a type of pancake that is made in a cast iron skillet. It is a large, puffy pancake that is similar to a popover or Yorkshire pudding. The pancake batter is poured into a preheated skillet and then baked in the oven until it puffs up and becomes golden brown.
The beauty of a Dutch Baby Pancake is that it is incredibly versatile and can be topped with a variety of ingredients. Some popular toppings include fresh fruit, powdered sugar, jam, syrup, and whipped cream. You can get creative and add any toppings that you like, such as nuts, chocolate chips, or even savory toppings like bacon and cheese.
To make a Dutch Baby Pancake, you will need a cast iron skillet that has been preheated in the oven. This will help ensure that the pancake cooks evenly and gets crispy on the outside. The batter is made with a few simple ingredients, such as eggs, flour, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Once the batter is mixed together, it is poured into the hot skillet and baked until it rises and becomes golden brown.
One of the best things about cooking a Dutch Baby Pancake in a cast iron skillet is that it creates a beautiful presentation. The pancake puffs up and gets crispy on the outside, while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. The cast iron skillet also helps to distribute heat evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked pancake every time.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast or a show-stopping dessert, a Dutch Baby Pancake is a wonderful choice to cook in a cast iron skillet. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. So grab your skillet and start cooking this delightful treat!
Delicious Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic dish that is perfect for cooking in a cast iron skillet. It’s a versatile bread that can be served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own. The cast iron skillet helps to give the cornbread a crispy crust while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Here is an easy and delicious cornbread recipe that you can try in your cast iron skillet.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Pour the batter into the skillet and spread it out evenly.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before serving.
This cornbread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s still warm. You can serve it with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings. The buttery and slightly sweet flavor of the cornbread pairs well with savory dishes like chili, but it’s also delicious on its own. Gather your friends and family and enjoy this delightful cornbread made in a cast iron skillet!
10 Best Thing To Cook First In Cast Iron Skillet
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Bundle. 10.5" Griddle, 8" Skillet, 10.25" Skillet, 10.25" Dutch Oven, and 10.25" Lid,Black
Features
| Part Number | L5HS3 |
| Model | Skillet Set |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited manufacturer's warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 5 Piece |
| Language | Unqualified |
- One Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Set
- Cast iron cover features self-basting tips
- Easy-grip handles for secure control
- Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
- Not dishwasher safe
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans
Features
| Part Number | QUIVERBNDLE2 |
| Model | QUIVERBNDLE2 |
| Color | Black |
- Durable Cast Iron Construction: Made from heavy-duty cast iron for long-lasting use and even heat distribution.
- Set of 3 Skillets: Includes 12 inch and 10.25 inch skillets for versatile cooking.
- Compatible with Gas Stovetops: Designed to work seamlessly on gas stovetops for easy cooking.
- Oven Safe: Can be used in the oven for baking, roasting and more.
- Easy to Clean: Hand wash only for quick and simple cleaning.
Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - Dual Assist Handles - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire - Black
Features
| Part Number | L17SK3 |
| Model | Cast Iron Round Pan |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited manufacturer's warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2004-03-01T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 17 Inch |
| Language | English |
- YOUR NEW GO-TO PAN: Lodge cast iron cookware is the perfect kitchen tool for beginners, home cooks and chefs. Cast iron can handle any kitchen cooktop, oven, grill, and open flame. Crafted in America with iron and oil, its naturally seasoned cooking surface creates an easy-release and improves with use.
- SEASONED COOKWARE: Seasoning is simply oil baked into the iron, giving it a natural, easy-release finish and helps prevent your pan from rusting. Lodge pre-seasons all cast iron cookware with 100% natural vegetable oil: no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use Lodge the better the seasoning will get!
- RUST? DON’T PANIC! IT’S NOT BROKEN: When your pan arrives you may notice a spot that looks like rust. It is simply oil that has not fully carbonized. With regular use and care the spot will disappear. If you do notice rust simply scour the affected area with steel wool, wash with warm water, dry completely, and rub with vegetable oil.
- COOKING VERSATILITY: Our skillets have unparalleled heat retention that gives you edge-to-edge even cooking every time you use your skillet. Cast iron cookware is slow to heat up but retains heat longer which makes cast iron ideal for pan-frying and roasting, these delicious moments are cast to last.
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it is a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America. Lodge products are made in the USA with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material.
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Scrub Brush- 12 inch Cast Iron Frying Pan With 10 inch Bristle Brush
Features
| Part Number | QUIVERBNDLE8 |
| Model | QUIVERBNDLE8 |
| Color | Black |
- Durable Cast Iron Construction: Made from heavy duty cast iron for long lasting use.
- 12 Inch Skillet: Provides ample cooking space for all your meals.
- Scratch Resistant Non-Stick Surface: Seasoned cast iron creates a natural non-stick surface.
- Heavy Duty 10 Inch Bristle Brush: Perfect for cleaning and scrubbing your cast iron.
- Oven and Freezer Safe: Can be used for baking, broiling, frying, sauteing and more.
Lodge® L10CF3 5 Quart Cast Iron Deep Skillet with Lid
Features
| Part Number | L10CF3 |
| Model | L10CFKPLT |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited manufacturer's warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2004-03-01T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 5 Quart |
| Language | English |
- Can be used to saute, sear, fry, bake, & stir fry
- Foundry seasoned; ready to use upon purchase
- Safe for all cooking surfaces, grills, & campfires
- Assist handle for easier handling
- Lid included
FAQ
What is cornbread?
Cornbread is a type of bread made from cornmeal. It is a popular staple in Southern cuisine in the United States.
How is cornbread traditionally made?
Cornbread is traditionally made by combining cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, milk, eggs, and sometimes sugar. This mixture is then baked in a greased pan until golden brown.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cornbread is a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served as a side dish with a hearty stew or chili, or enjoyed on its own with a spread of butter or a drizzle of honey, cornbread is sure to please. Its distinct taste and texture, with the perfect balance of sweetness and a slightly crumbly yet moist interior, make it a comforting and satisfying treat. So, whether you’re cooking up a Southern-inspired feast or simply looking for a delicious accompaniment to your next meal, cornbread is a must-try dish that will surely become a favorite.
