A cast iron skillet square is a game-changer for anyone who loves cooking. Unlike traditional round pans, the square shape gives you more room to cook bacon, sandwiches, or steaks without crowding the edges. These pans are famous for holding heat well and lasting for generations if you treat them right. Whether you are searing meat on the stove or baking cornbread in the oven, a square cast iron pan is a versatile tool that belongs in every kitchen.
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Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 9 Cast Iron Skillet Square Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 8-Piece Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware Set with Dutch Oven, Skillets, and Vintage Wooden Carrying Box
This 8-piece cast iron set is a complete kitchen in a box, featuring a heavy-duty Dutch oven and square-friendly cooking options. It is designed for those who love outdoor cooking or want a full collection for their home kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lifetime durability with high-quality cast iron construction
- ✓ Includes a 4.5qt Dutch oven suitable for 5-7 people
- ✓ Comes with a vintage wooden box for easy storage and transport
- ✓ Pre-seasoned surface for immediate out-of-the-box use
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this set because it provides incredible value for the money. The variety of pieces ensures you have the right tool for everything from slow-cooked stews to flash-seared steaks.
Best For
This is perfect for camping enthusiasts or new homeowners looking for a comprehensive starter set that will last a lifetime.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent heat retention for even cooking
- Comes with a beautiful storage box
- Very versatile for indoor and outdoor use
- Durable enough to be passed down as an heirloom
Cons:
- Very heavy to transport when full
- The wooden box is a bit thin for the weight
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Okay, I was REALLY scared when I purchased this, thinking I was going to get poor quality somewhere. But I have used everything daily since I got it, and I am just SO glad I took the plunge.”
Customer Review: “Starting with the box. Feels a bit under-sturdy. Makes transporting them much easier though. The quality of the cookware itself is very good.”
2. Lodge 11-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Griddle for Even Heating on Stovetops and Indoor Grills
The Lodge 11-inch square griddle is a legendary kitchen staple. Its flat surface and low sides make it the ultimate tool for flipping pancakes or searing grilled cheese sandwiches with ease.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil for a non-stick finish
- ✓ Signature teardrop handle for a comfortable, secure grip
- ✓ Large 11-inch square surface provides ample cooking space
- ✓ Proudly made in the USA with unparalleled heat retention
Why We Recommend It
This pan is an Editor’s Choice because of its consistent performance. It heats up evenly across the entire surface, ensuring no “cold spots” when you are cooking large batches of food.
Best For
This is the best choice for breakfast lovers who need a reliable flat surface for eggs, pancakes, and bacon.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low side walls make flipping food very easy
- Highly durable and gets better with age
- Fits perfectly over standard stovetop burners
- Pre-seasoning is high quality and long-lasting
Cons:
- Does not have deep sides to catch grease
- Handle gets very hot during use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This has quickly become one of my most-used pans in the kitchen. I’m talking pancakes, grilled cheese, French toast, and quesadillas.”
Customer Review: “Works as it should. Seasoning from the package has held up and griddle has surprised us with how well it works with little sticking.”
3. Jim Beam JB0217 10.5-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet for Induction, Gas, and Oven Cooking
The Jim Beam 10.5-inch square skillet offers professional-grade cooking features at a fraction of the cost. It is designed to handle high-heat searing and slow oven roasting with equal precision.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Multi-functional design can sauté, sear, fry, and bake
- ✓ Features a heavy-duty handle with a hanging hole for storage
- ✓ Equipped with a helpful secondary handle for two-handed lifting
- ✓ Compatible with induction, gas, electric, and oven stovetops
Why We Recommend It
We love this pan because it feels lighter than some traditional cast iron but doesn’t sacrifice any durability. It is a fantastic entry point for anyone wanting to try a square skillet.
Best For
This is the best budget-friendly option for home cooks who want a versatile pan that works on all heat sources, including induction.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the price point
- Includes a helper handle for better control
- Heats up very quickly compared to thicker pans
- Easy to clean once properly seasoned
Cons:
- Seasoning may need a few extra coats early on
- Slightly thinner metal than premium brands
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love that it’s a little lighter but very sturdy and cooks very quickly. I’m impressed and I hope this company makes more sizes.”
Customer Review: “This morning I unpacked my new Jim Beam cast iron skillet and I have to say I am really impressed. It is extremely well made.”
4. Lodge 10.5-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Grill Pan with Raised Ridges for Perfect Sear Marks
If you want those beautiful restaurant-style grill marks without an outdoor grill, the Lodge 10.5-inch square grill pan is your best bet. The raised ridges keep your food elevated above the grease for healthier cooking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High raised ridges for perfect searing and fat drainage
- ✓ Natural easy-release finish that improves with every use
- ✓ Thick cast iron construction for superior heat retention
- ✓ Compact square design that fits nicely on any stove burner
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this specifically for indoor grilling. It transforms any stovetop into a high-heat grill, allowing you to cook juicy steaks and charred vegetables all year round.
Best For
Ideal for apartment dwellers or anyone who wants the flavor and look of grilled food without firing up a BBQ.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Creates authentic grill marks on meat and veggies
- Reduces overall fat in meals by elevating food
- Extremely heavy-duty and long-lasting
- Can be used over a campfire or in the oven
Cons:
- Can be difficult to clean between the ridges
- Produces quite a bit of smoke at high temperatures
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I just cooked a thick ribeye steak using this grill. It’s the first thing I’ve cooked on it and it came out perfect.”
Customer Review: “I live in an apartment but longed for the grill marks and flavor from an outdoor barbecue. This pan is exactly what I needed.”
5. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Casserole Pan with Dual Handles for Baking, Roasting, and Serving at Home
The Lodge cast iron casserole pan is a powerhouse for baking and roasting. Its 9×13 inch dimensions make it perfect for family-sized portions of lasagna, roasted chicken, or cobblers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High sidewalls to prevent spills during big meals
- ✓ Dual loop handles for easy carrying from oven to table
- ✓ Edge-to-edge even heating for consistent baking results
- ✓ Pre-seasoned with vegetable oil for a natural finish
Why We Recommend It
This is a must-have because it bridges the gap between a cast iron skillet square and a traditional baking dish. It browns the bottom of your crusts perfectly in a way glass or ceramic simply cannot.
Best For
Best for those who do a lot of oven-based cooking and want a pan that can serve as a beautiful centerpiece on the table.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity for feeding a crowd
- Handles make it very stable to move when hot
- Does not warp or crack under high heat
- Versatile enough for both roasting meat and baking desserts
Cons:
- Takes up significant storage space
- Extremely heavy when filled with food
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Everyone loves cast iron these days and in the USA people love Lodge for the affordability and availability. This pan is fun for specific purposes like big family dinners.”
Customer Review: “I own several Lodge pans and have never had issues. This casserole dish is heavy duty and cooks everything perfectly.”
6. Cuisinel 10.5-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Grill Pan Set with Glass Lid, Scraper, and Handle Cover
The Cuisinel square grill pan set is all about convenience. It includes everything you need to start grilling, including a lid to help retain heat and a scraper to make cleaning the ridges much easier.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Complete set with glass lid, silicone handle cover, and scraper
- ✓ Smooth cast iron finish for even heat distribution
- ✓ Crafted to outlast years of regular cooking and washing
- ✓ Large 10.5-inch cooking surface with high ridges
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this for the accessories. Getting a glass lid that fits a square pan is usually difficult, and the scraper is a lifesaver for removing burnt-on bits between the ridges.
Best For
Best for beginners who want a complete package and don’t want to hunt for matching accessories later.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Glass lid is great for controlling splatters
- Handle cover protects your hands from burns
- Scraper makes the cleaning process much faster
- Solid weight and feel for the price
Cons:
- Lid handle can sometimes loosen over time
- Ridges are slightly shallower than premium brands
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Nice cast iron pan. Gonna try out burgers and brats tonight! The lid is a really nice addition.”
Customer Review: “This is a heavy duty pan. The scraper works well to get between the ridges, which is always the hardest part.”
7. TableCraft 10-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Fry Pan for Commercial and Home Kitchen Stove Use
The TableCraft 10-inch square fry pan is built like a tank. It lacks the long handle found on many pans, making it an excellent choice for compact ovens or crowded stovetops.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ No long handle for better fit in small ovens and grills
- ✓ Pre-seasoned with soybean oil for a natural non-stick surface
- ✓ Commercial-grade durability for long-term reliability
- ✓ Perfect for single-serve sides like mac and cheese
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this pan for its space-saving design. If you struggle to fit standard pans in your toaster oven or small residential oven, this square fry pan is a brilliant solution.
Best For
Perfect for roasting side dishes or baking single-serve portions that go straight from the oven to the table.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fits into small ovens easily due to handle design
- Naturally non-stick once heated properly
- Very easy to store in tight cabinets
- Holds temperature well for serving hot food
Cons:
- Requires oven mitts to move at all times
- Not ideal for tossing or flipping food on the stove
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This square cast iron pan fits nicely into my small oven. It has become my go-to pan for roasting and baking.”
Customer Review: “I love this pan! I needed a square skillet to make bread in, and it fits the bill nicely.”
8. Jim Beam 16-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Skillet with High Ridges for Professional Grilling and Searing
The Jim Beam 16-inch square skillet is an absolute beast. It is one of the largest cast iron pans available, designed for serious grilling when you have a massive amount of food to prepare.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 16-inch cooking area for large family gatherings
- ✓ Ribbed bottom design perfect for low-fat grilling
- ✓ Premium quality construction for even heat retention
- ✓ Dual side handles for balanced and secure lifting
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this for big families or those who love to host. Most grill pans are too small for more than two steaks, but this 16-inch monster can handle a full feast at once.
Best For
Best for outdoor BBQ setups, extra-large ovens, or double-burner stove configurations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched cooking surface area for a square pan
- High ridges produce professional sear marks
- Extremely durable and heavy-duty feel
- Great for high-volume cooking
Cons:
- Too large for most standard single stovetop burners
- Very heavy and requires significant storage space
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This pan is massive! It fits perfectly across two burners on my stove. I can cook burgers for the whole family at once.”
Customer Review: “The quality is top-notch. It’s very heavy, so the dual handles are definitely needed. Great for searing big steaks.”
9. Onlyfire 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Square Steak Pan with Perforated Surface and Dual Easy-Grip Handles
The Onlyfire 12-inch square steak pan features a unique perforated surface. It is designed for those who want that smoky, flame-kissed flavor while preventing small foods from falling into the fire.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Perforated surface for authentic charcoal or gas grill flavor
- ✓ Dual side handles for enhanced safety and control
- ✓ Pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil for instant use
- ✓ Thick cast iron construction for iron-enriched cooking
Why We Recommend It
This is a specialized tool that we recommend for outdoor enthusiasts. The holes allow smoke and heat to penetrate the food directly, providing a flavor profile you can’t get with a solid pan.
Best For
Perfect for grilling vegetables, seafood, or small cuts of meat over an open flame or BBQ grill.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Allows for maximum smoke infusion during cooking
- Prevents small veggies from falling through grill grates
- Dual handles make it easy to move with grill gloves
- Very sturdy and won’t warp in high heat
Cons:
- Cannot be used for saucy dishes or batters
- Requires a separate tray to prevent drips on indoor stoves
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great skillet – love the shape of this. Perfect for making fajitas on the grill. It is pre-seasoned and working great.”
Customer Review: “The perforated holes really help get that charcoal flavor into the meat. It’s built very well and arrives ready to go.”
Complete Buying Guide for Cast Iron Skillet Square
Essential Factors We Consider
When you are looking for the perfect cast iron skillet square, the most important factor is the surface type. Do you want a flat griddle for pancakes, or a ribbed pan for grill marks? Flat pans are easier to clean and more versatile for general frying. Ribbed pans are better for meat but take more effort to scrub. You should also check the handle design. Long handles are great for stovetop flipping, while dual loop handles are safer for moving heavy pans in and out of the oven. Lastly, look at the size. A 10.5-inch pan is standard, but if you have a large family, going up to 12 or even 16 inches can save you from cooking in multiple batches.
Budget Planning
Cast iron is luckily one of the most affordable kitchen investments you can make. Basic, high-quality pans usually fall in the $20 to $50 range. If you are buying a full set or a specialized commercial-grade pan, you might spend closer to $100. Remember that a cast iron pan can literally last 100 years, so spending a few extra dollars for a brand with better seasoning or a more comfortable handle is usually worth it in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Adding a square cast iron pan to your kitchen is like gaining a new superpower. The extra corner space and incredible heat retention make cooking more efficient and more enjoyable. Whether you choose a Lodge classic or a specialized Jim Beam grill pan, you are buying a tool that will only get better with every meal you cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why choose a square cast iron skillet over a round one?
A: Square skillets provide about 25% more cooking surface than round pans of the same diameter. This makes them much better for cooking square-shaped foods like sandwiches, bacon slices, and steaks without overcrowding.
Q: How do I clean a square grill pan with ridges?
A: The best way is to use a specialized plastic scraper or a stiff brush while the pan is still slightly warm. For tough stuck-on bits, you can boil a small amount of water in the pan to loosen the debris before scrubbing.
Q: Do these pans work on induction cooktops?
A: Yes! Most cast iron is naturally induction-compatible because it is made of ferrous metal. Just ensure the bottom of the pan is flat to make good contact with the induction surface.
Q: How often do I need to season my square skillet?
A: If you use it regularly with oil or fat, it will season itself! However, if it starts to look dull or food begins to stick, simply rub a light layer of vegetable oil over it and bake it upside down in the oven at 350°F for an hour.
Choosing the right cast iron skillet square will change the way you cook breakfast, dinner, and everything in between. These pans are durable, affordable, and incredibly effective. If you are ready to upgrade your kitchen game, pick one from our top recommendations today and start cooking meals that your family will remember!