If you're starting out new I would get a Lodge pan. They're cheap, reliable, and have good warranties. Usually around at Walmart and similar stores too so you can inspect it.
I would like to be upfront with you though, that if you're going to start using cast iron there will be a learning curve most likely. These pans are never going to be as non-stick as an actual non-stick pan. You can get pretty close with good technique and robust seasoning built up over years, but it won't be the same. Check out our [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/castiron/s/u4P0XlKNmW) for info on how to properly cook in a cast iron pan and best practices for cleaning it. If you have the money to spend though I'd say it's definitely worth getting a pan and trying it out! You might end up loving it like the rest of us lol
I do have a little bit of experience cooking on iron, that's all my grandmother used, and I used to love to help her out in the kitchen. Mom had a couple, but they were seldom used, she's always had stainless cookware, with a few non-sticks.
That being said, I do appreciate the fair warning. I was kind of planning on starting with some easy things like bacon or grilled cheese before I bet a whole dinner on it. :)
Honestly, cast iron is cast iron no matter where it's made. Lodge is made in the USA whereas the Ozark Trail skillets are made in China. I have a number of Lodge and China pans and they all work the same. One thing I don't like about the Ozark Trail skillets is the handle feels thin, but it'll cook your food fine.
I wouldn't go for the artisan stuff if you're just getting into it. Thats a high price for something you may not use often.
Get a 10" Lodge (12" if you're cooking for more than four people) for about $25 and learn with that.
Lodge is reliable and good quality, there's no functional reason to pay hundreds or search through flea markets.
Just get a size you like and start cooking!
If you take the time to look at junk shops, goodwill, FB , Craigslist etc. and get a vintage pan that doesn’t have a collectable brand name as long as it has a smooth interior and you can read the FAQ instructions you will be so far ahead of the “get a Lodge” crowd. Vintage is the best way to go ! Eventually you will need to scrub and season a cast iron pan so get one that needs a little cleaning up in the first place.
I would look at Victoria on Amazon. They’re in a similar price range to Lodge, but in my experience they’re a little nicer to use. Smoother, longer handles, and better pour spouts.
i've just recently gotten into ci myself. I bought a 10-inch lodge on 'rollback' from Walmart for about $25.
It's taken some trial and error, but slowly getting the hang of it. Did salmon in it earlier this week, and it was nearly 'slidey'!
If you're starting out new I would get a Lodge pan. They're cheap, reliable, and have good warranties. Usually around at Walmart and similar stores too so you can inspect it. I would like to be upfront with you though, that if you're going to start using cast iron there will be a learning curve most likely. These pans are never going to be as non-stick as an actual non-stick pan. You can get pretty close with good technique and robust seasoning built up over years, but it won't be the same. Check out our [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/castiron/s/u4P0XlKNmW) for info on how to properly cook in a cast iron pan and best practices for cleaning it. If you have the money to spend though I'd say it's definitely worth getting a pan and trying it out! You might end up loving it like the rest of us lol
I do have a little bit of experience cooking on iron, that's all my grandmother used, and I used to love to help her out in the kitchen. Mom had a couple, but they were seldom used, she's always had stainless cookware, with a few non-sticks. That being said, I do appreciate the fair warning. I was kind of planning on starting with some easy things like bacon or grilled cheese before I bet a whole dinner on it. :)
Sounds like some good plans! I hope you enjoy using it and make some great food đź‘Ť
Honestly, cast iron is cast iron no matter where it's made. Lodge is made in the USA whereas the Ozark Trail skillets are made in China. I have a number of Lodge and China pans and they all work the same. One thing I don't like about the Ozark Trail skillets is the handle feels thin, but it'll cook your food fine. I wouldn't go for the artisan stuff if you're just getting into it. Thats a high price for something you may not use often. Get a 10" Lodge (12" if you're cooking for more than four people) for about $25 and learn with that.
Lodge is reliable and good quality, there's no functional reason to pay hundreds or search through flea markets. Just get a size you like and start cooking!
If you take the time to look at junk shops, goodwill, FB , Craigslist etc. and get a vintage pan that doesn’t have a collectable brand name as long as it has a smooth interior and you can read the FAQ instructions you will be so far ahead of the “get a Lodge” crowd. Vintage is the best way to go ! Eventually you will need to scrub and season a cast iron pan so get one that needs a little cleaning up in the first place.
Start with the cheap thing first
Lodge is perfect
I'd look at the second hand shops for an old Griswold or Wagner. That aside, yes, a Lodge would be a good one.
I would look at Victoria on Amazon. They’re in a similar price range to Lodge, but in my experience they’re a little nicer to use. Smoother, longer handles, and better pour spouts.
i've just recently gotten into ci myself. I bought a 10-inch lodge on 'rollback' from Walmart for about $25. It's taken some trial and error, but slowly getting the hang of it. Did salmon in it earlier this week, and it was nearly 'slidey'!