If you’re shopping for an extra large cast iron skillet, you’re looking for a pan that can handle family meals, outdoor cooking, and high-heat searing. These heavy-duty skillets hold heat, finish well in the oven, and last decades with basic care. Below you’ll find eight top picks, clear pros and cons, real customer reviews, and a short buying guide to help you pick the right oversized cast iron pan for your kitchen or campsite.
Contents
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 8 Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Pre-seasoned 17-inch cast iron skillet with dual handles for camping, grill, stovetop, induction, oven
The 17-inch extra large cast iron skillet is a monster for big roasts and campfire feasts. It ships pre-seasoned and has dual handles so you can move it with oven mitts. Expect great heat retention for searing or slow braises.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Pre-seasoned and ready to use right away.
✓ Dual loop handles for easier lifting and two-handed control.
✓ Heavy gauge cast iron for even heat retention.
Why We Recommend It
This pan is built for crowd cooking. If you love feeding a group or want a durable grill partner, the size and weight work in your favor. It does need extra seasoning for a long-term non-stick surface.
Best For
Perfect for big families, outdoor grilling, and one-pan roasts where you want even browning and heat hold.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large cooking surface fits whole birds and big cuts.
- Sturdy build that lasts decades with care.
- Works on stovetop, grill, oven, and induction.
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use.
Cons:
- Very heavy — needs two people or care when handling.
- Single-layer seasoning may require re-seasoning for optimal non-stick.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a very large 17” pan made of quality iron. It can be used for extremely high heat for searing large cuts of meat like top sirloin caps or for slow cooking stews, soups and chili. Comes with a single layer of seasoning for rust prevention but will need additional seasoning to improve the cook”
Customer Review: “I am so pleased with this monster skillet! I bought it to use on my 21 inch Vision egg-style grill. I found that with the handles it was a little too wide for the lid to close. I asked a steel fabricator friend to cut one handle off. It fits perfectly on the grill. I did a 20 pound turkey in it for “
2. Lodge 5-quart pre-seasoned cast iron deep skillet with lid and assist handle for versatile cooking
The Lodge 5-quart deep skillet is a workhorse for frying, braising, and one-pot meals. It comes with a lid and an assist handle to help with the weight. This pan is a safe bet if you want proven quality.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Deep sides for frying and stews.
✓ Tight-fitting lid for braising and slow cooking.
✓ Pre-seasoned finish and Lodge’s long track record.
Why We Recommend It
This model blends depth and durability. It is heavy but balanced, and the lid adds versatility. Great for frying chicken or making large batches of chili.
Best For
Best for cooks who want a single pan for frying and braising and who appreciate a trusted brand.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Deep profile holds liquids and large batches.
- Includes lid—useful for oven and stovetop braises.
- Solid pre-seasoned surface out of the box.
Cons:
- Very heavy when full; handle grip can be awkward for small hands.
- May need extra seasoning for a slick non-stick finish.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This deep cast iron skillet is perfect for frying. It’s deep enough to allow you to fry larger quantities of chicken, etc. It is a quality skillet and a good value. Be aware, though, it is VERY heavy. The lid is a nice additon.”
Customer Review: “I got the Lodge Logic Cast-Iron Chicken Fryer when I learned that properly seasoned cast-iron cookware are an alternative to Teflon cookware. With the Lodge Logic Cast-Iron Chicken Fryer, I no longer have to contend with Teflon cooking surfaces that start to flake and lose their their non-stick prop”
3. Amazon Basics 15-inch pre-seasoned cast iron skillet, heavy-duty, oven-safe for even heating and searing
This 15-inch extra large cast iron skillet from Amazon Basics balances price and utility. It heats evenly and is oven safe. Expect a heavy, roomy pan that handles large meals well.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Flared side edges for easy stirring and flipping.
✓ Oven-safe to high temperatures for roasting and baking.
✓ Pre-seasoned finish for immediate use.
Why We Recommend It
It’s a great entry-level oversized skillet. If you want big capacity without a big price, this one delivers reliable heat and a large cooking surface.
Best For
Good for families and cooks who want a large, budget-friendly skillet for searing and batch cooking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable for its size.
- Sturdy and oven-safe to high temps.
- Large surface area for multiple steaks or veggies.
Cons:
- Heavy and awkward for some users.
- May need extra seasoning to improve non-stick.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My husband said this was the biggest cast iron pan he had ever seen, and he was very impressed with it. We have cooked chicken curry, steak, eggs, and sausages in the pan. It’s heavy, but the size allows us to cook a lot of meat at once. It’s also easy to clean. I’m happy with my purchase — the pric”
Customer Review: “This pan is rust resistant and looks great. Of the utmost quality this pan is easy to use. Tons of capacity to cook.”
4. Lodge cast iron casserole pan with tight-fitting lid, oven-safe and ideal for braising, baking, and serving
The Lodge casserole pan is a rectangular cast iron option with high sides and a tight lid. It is great for baking, roasting, and serving right from the oven to the table. Lodge pre-seasons these pieces for immediate use.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 9 x 13 inch size with tall sidewalls.
✓ Pre-seasoned and oven-ready.
✓ Even edge-to-edge heat for baking and browning.
Why We Recommend It
This is a smart choice when you need a pan that doubles as bakeware and serving ware. The tall sides reduce splatter and let you cook larger dishes neatly.
Best For
Best for bakers, large family dinners, and those who want a durable casserole that goes from oven to table.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High sides keep sauces and juices contained.
- Great heat distribution for baked dishes.
- Ready to use out of the box.
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky to store.
- Rectangular shape can be awkward on small burners.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Everyone loves cast iron these days and in the USA people love Lodge for the affordability and availability the brand has in stores like Wal-Mart, Cracker Barrel and Bass Pro. Every camping and sports store will have these products.Lately the company has been making fun things for specific purposes.”
Customer Review: “Some reviews I’ve come across make me wonder. I own several varieties of Lodge pans, and throughout my experience, I have never had any issues with them. While it’s true that defects can occasionally occur with any product, I believe it’s unfair to judge a company solely based on those instances. If”
5. Jim Beam pre-seasoned 16-inch square cast iron skillet with ridges, perfect for grilling, searing, and serving
The Jim Beam 16-inch square skillet brings a griddle-style surface with ridges. It’s ideal for grilling indoors or over a campfire if you like grill marks and lower-fat cooking. The square shape increases usable surface area.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ribbed grilling surface for sear marks.
✓ Large square footprint for more food at once.
✓ Pre-seasoned for initial use.
Why We Recommend It
Choose this if you want a griddle-like cast iron that fits a large grill or stovetop. It’s great for burgers, veggies, and anything you want grill-marked.
Best For
Best for home grillers and those who prefer a griddle surface over a flat pan.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large square area cooks many items at once.
- Ridges help reduce oil contact and create sear marks.
- Durable pre-seasoned surface.
Cons:
- Ribbed surface can be harder to clean.
- Handle placement may make it awkward on some grills.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Fantastic cast iron griddle. My girlfriend wanted on and this one was a great choice for what she wanted. Made her day as an extra present for Christmas.”
Customer Review: “Fantastic cast iron griddle. My girlfriend wanted on and this one was a great choice for what she wanted. Made her day as an extra present for Christmas.Read more”
6. Lodge 12-inch pre-seasoned cast iron skillet with dual assist handles, oven, stovetop and campfire ready
The classic Lodge 12-inch skillet is the everyday go-to for many cooks. It heats predictably and the dual assist handle helps when it’s full. Lightweight compared to the larger pans but still offers solid capacity.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Balanced size for weeknight meals.
✓ Dual handles for safer lifting.
✓ Pre-seasoned and oven-ready.
Why We Recommend It
It’s versatile and beginner-friendly. If a 15–17 inch skillet feels too big, this 12-inch model gives great performance with easier handling.
Best For
Great for couples, small families, and solo cooks who want a reliable cast iron workhorse.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile size for many recipes.
- Easy to manage weight compared to giant skillets.
- Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- Smaller cooking area than extra large models.
- Still heavy for some users when full.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Update: Photo of Skillet Breakfast Dish added. This skillet cooks and bakes great from the very first use!I cook and bake extensively, all of our meals are eaten at home with food I prepare. I love cooking and baking in cast iron, and needed an additional cast iron 8 inch lid. Also wanted to add”
Customer Review: “Great depth and single person size. Can be hand washed, just put oil on a paper towel and wipe it down to protect it and prevent rust. Great for cornish hen, shrimp, veggies, single serve dinner. Use on grill frequently because I don’t have a stove or oven to cook. Double handles are much better for”
7. Caron & Doucet ultimate cast iron care set with plant-based seasoning oil, cleaning soap, and restoring scrub
This cast iron care set helps you restore and maintain large skillets. It includes plant-based seasoning oil, a scrub, and soap designed not to strip seasoning. A small kit that makes big pans easier to care for.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Plant-based seasoning oil safe for food contact.
✓ Restoring scrub to remove rust and stuck-on food.
✓ Cast iron soap that cleans without harsh detergents.
Why We Recommend It
Caring for an extra large cast iron skillet is simpler with the right tools. This kit speeds restoration and keeps seasoning strong over time.
Best For
Best for owners of older or heavily used cast iron who want to bring pans back to life quickly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Formulated specifically for cast iron care.
- Plant-based oil safe for repeated seasoning.
- Includes scrub and soap for a full maintenance routine.
Cons:
- Smaller kit — you’ll go through oil faster with very large pans.
- Requires time and effort for full restoration on badly rusted pans.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have a 20 yr old Lodge Cast Iron skillet. It has been used & abused by 10 children who never completely cleaned off food particles, never seasoned it properly and had soaked it in the sink with soap, so I had rust too. I have done the salt bath on the stove to get off the food, used SOS pads and”
Customer Review: “I love cast iron but let’s face it, it can be a pain to keep clean and seasoned. After using this product, I was thrilled with the results. I’ve rehabilitated some older cast iron pots and polished up my newer ones. This product is great. Highly recommend.”
8. Lodge 3-piece pre-seasoned cast iron skillet set includes 8″, 10.25″, and 12″ pans for versatile cooking
This 3-piece Lodge skillet set covers most cooking needs and includes a large 12-inch pan. Pre-seasoned, durable, and made without PFAS. A solid starter set for anyone building a cast iron collection.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Three sizes for flexibility.
✓ PFAS-free and pre-seasoned with natural oils.
✓ Durable Lodge construction made in the USA.
Why We Recommend It
The set saves money and gives you the right pan for most recipes. The large pan handles bigger meals while the smaller pans are handy for sides or single portions.
Best For
Great for cooks who want a ready-to-use cast iron set for varied cooking tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Value pack that covers many recipes.
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use.
- Solid heat retention and even browning.
Cons:
- Storage can be bulky for smaller kitchens.
- Large pan still heavy for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “After I learned to season it quick like 7 times, and started using a bush and cup with a dap of oil on the side I kept around to wipe with oil when done, and learned to due to size I needed to have rag on edge of sink when dumping out water, and then I often but not always heat up water in electric “
Customer Review: “I am loving this cast iron pan! Actually, I bought 2 and use them all the time now. It can be used on the stove top to cook a couple of cheeseburgers, or put into the oven to bake a half-size Dutch Baby pancake. Because it’s cast iron, I use metal spatula to flip my burgers without any damage to “
Complete Buying Guide for Extra Large Cast Iron Skillet
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing an extra large cast iron skillet, think about size, weight, handle design, and whether it comes pre-seasoned. We also look at brand reputation and whether the pan works on induction and grills. If you plan to cook outdoors, check for loop handles and fit on your grill or camp cooker.
Budget Planning
Big skillets vary in price. A pre-seasoned extra large model from a known brand is worth the cost if you plan to use it often. If you want savings, consider a slightly smaller 15-inch pan that still fits big meals. Investing in a care kit like the Caron & Doucet set helps protect your purchase and prolongs its life.
Final Thoughts
Pick the pan that fits your cooking style. For frequent outdoor cooks, the 17-inch model gives space and heat hold. For everyday home use, a 12–15 inch model may be more practical. No matter which you choose, care and seasoning keep your skillet non-stick and rust-free. For tips on boosting flavor while relying less on salt, check this guide: how to improve cooking taste without extra salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I season an extra large cast iron skillet?
A: Clean the pan, dry thoroughly, then rub with a thin layer of food-grade oil. Bake upside down at 450°F for an hour, then cool. Repeat a few times for best results. For more care tips, the Caron & Doucet set can speed the process and cleanup.
Q: Can I use a 17-inch skillet on my home stove?
A: It depends on stove size and burner strength. A 17-inch pan may overhang the burners and heat unevenly on small stoves. It works great on grills, ovens, and large burners. Try a 15-inch if your cooktop is small.
Q: How do I clean an oversized cast iron skillet without ruining the seasoning?
A: Use hot water and a brush or scrubber. For stuck food, simmer water to loosen residue. Avoid harsh dish soap. Dry fully and rub a thin layer of oil to protect the seasoning. If needed, the cast iron soap and scrub from our care kit helps restore pans safely. For related tips about maximizing flavor and technique, see this helpful guide: how to improve cooking taste without extra salt.
Q: Are pre-seasoned pans truly non-stick?
A: Pre-seasoned pans offer some release, but they won’t be as slick as a well-built, repeatedly seasoned surface. Re-season after heavy use and avoid acidic foods until the seasoning is well established. Regular maintenance improves non-stick performance over time.
Q: What size should I buy if I want to cook for 4–6 people?
A: A 15-inch or 17-inch skillet is ideal for 4–6 people, depending on recipe and side dishes. A 12-inch covers two to three people, while a 15–17 inch gives the space needed for whole birds or searing multiple steaks. If unsure, consider a set that includes a 12-inch and 10-inch plus a larger pan — sets offer flexibility and value. See set options and maintenance tips here: how to improve cooking taste without extra salt.
Thanks for reading — I hope this roundup makes choosing an extra large cast iron skillet easier. If you cook for many people often, the 17-inch model is unbeatable for capacity. If you want something more practical for daily use, a 12–15 inch Lodge or Amazon Basics pan is a solid pick. Click through to check prices and read more user feedback on Amazon before you buy.