The 10 Best Cast Iron Cookware Sets

Editor's Notes

November 19, 2020:

Considering the durability of good cast iron cookware, which is what we strive to feature on this list, it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that we didn't have to eliminate any of our previous recommendations due to them performing poorly. Instead, we replaced a few items simply to achieve greater versatility in our recommendations, while still keeping the same laser focus on quality, of course.

During this update, we decided to remove the Cuisinel 3-Piece Chef, Crucible Pre-seasoned, and Simple Chef Skillet Set because we didn't feel either of them offered anything the Bayou Classic 7405 doesn't. Sure, the Cuisinel and Crucible Pre-seasoned come with pot holders, but those are generally very affordable and that alone didn't seem like enough of a reason to keep an item on this list when there are better options that weren't yet well represented here. Besides, we have the Lodge Essential L6SPA41, which includes silicone pot holders and also features a more versatile collection of cookware than the eliminated models.

Taking the place of one of the removed sets is the Bruntmor Enameled 2-in-1 BR3193, which offers the benefits of non-stick cookware, thanks to its enamel coating, paired with the durability of cast iron. As with the Tramontina Dutch Oven Combo and the also newly included Klee 3 Skillet, this coating means you won't have to worry about rusting, which is a common problem for people not familiar with how to properly maintain cast iron. Another enameled set is the premium Le Creuset 5-Piece Signature. However it is worth noting that only two out of the three pieces of cookware it includes are enameled on both the inside and outside. That being said, it is still one of the highest-quality options and, though pricey, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you may never have to buy another set ever again.

We also decided to add the Bruntmor Gift Bundle simply because of the wide range of cooking implements it includes. Whether you like to cook in a wok, a shallow rectangular grill pan, a deep multi-cooker, or other pieces, this option includes it.

September 08, 2019:

Cast iron cookware might just be the most durable kind ever made. In fact, it is not unheard of for a good set to be passed down through generations of family members, so if you are in the market for some new cooking vessels, there is no doubt that cast iron is a smart way to go. While many people may associate them with camping, there is no reason that can be used indoors too, as your daily cooking vessels.

Depending on what you currently have in your home, you may want to look for something that includes a variety of cookware types, like the Le Creuset 5-Piece Signature, Bruntmor BR2493, and Stansport 16903. All of these come with both pots and pans, so whether you want to fry chicken, make a savory stew, or saute some veggies, you'll have what you need.

We also included some skillet only sets, like the Lodge 6-Piece Bundle, Cuisinel Oven Safe 2-Piece, Bayou Classic 7405 3-Piece, Simple Chef Professional, and Crucible Cookware Pre-Seasoned for the people who prefer to use their other cookware for soups and boiling pasta.

You may notice that the Le Creuset 5-Piece Signature, our number one choice, is significantly more expensive than all the other options on our list. This is because it comes from one of the most respected names in premium French cookware, is still manufactured in France till this day, and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Plus, its enamel coating makes the pieces practically maintenance free, so you don't have to worry about periodically re-seasoning them.

While on the topic if maintenance, we recommend anybody who hasn't owned cast iron cookware before take some time to read up on how to take care of it. Unlike other forms of cookware, cast iron is prone to rusting quickly if not properly seasoned and cared for.