Cast iron saucepans are a must-have for any cook. They’re versatile enough to be used on the stovetop, in your oven, and even as an indoor grill. The best part about them? After years of use they form a natural nonstick coating that never needs replacing – just wash well when dirty so you don’t ruin their beautiful seasoned exterior.
A cast-iron saucepan is one tool I always have close by because it can do anything from warming up meat or cooking vegetables; browning ground beef before making tacos supreme while simultaneously heating up leftover French fries over low heat until crispy at the center.
If you are in the market for a new cast iron saucepan, then this review is for you. I have compiled 14 of the best contenders on the market and will compare them to help make your decision easier. You’ll find some great options that won’t break the bank while still providing quality performance. You’ll also get insights into how these pans can be used in your kitchen. Let’s dive right in and take a look at my top picks below:
List of 14 Best Cast Iron Saucepans Reviews
1. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 2.25 qt
- Have you been searching for a saucepan that can keep up with your culinary explorations? Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan is a product for those who love to cook. The colorful and long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking, and interior enamel will resist staining and dulling.
- You’ll be able to see the precise cooking of food as never before thanks to the sand-colored interior – any spilling or bursting of liquid is noticeable. Oversized handles provide even weight distribution, easy grip, and secure handling.
- Built-in lid stabilizers accommodate various sized lids which make this pan safe at any oven temperature; stainless steel knob provides superior heat resistance.
2. Victoria Cast Iron Sauce Pan. 0.45qt
- You’ll never have trouble scooping the perfect amount again with this Small saucepan. Its handle features a curve and pours spout that makes pouring as easy as can be, while its patterned interior ensures even heat distribution across all food types.
- Cast iron is an excellent material for cooking because it naturally releases small amounts of trace minerals, including iron. This means that when using a seasoned cast-iron pan you are getting more than just flavor into your food – your body absorbs these nutrients too.
- The saucepot is a multifunctional kitchen essential. It can warm butter, melt the cheese, and much more. At 16 ounces it’s perfect for most kitchens – from gas to electric or even in an oven-top range if needed.
- This seasoned coating is made from 100% natural, non-GMO flaxseed oil and has no harmful PTFE or PFOA ingredients. It’s perfect for those looking to use healthier oils in their food without sacrificing taste.
3. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 2.25 qt., Oyster
- This long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking, while our advanced sand-colored interior enamel prevents wear even more than traditional colors. The rounded base blends ingredients easily so you can create delicious meals for your loved ones.
- This 2.25 qt Oyster-colored saucepan is perfect for cooking up delicious recipes on the stove or in the oven – no need to stop what you’re doing because it heats evenly on all sides.
- The extended helper handle also provides extra control when transferring this piece between heat sources. Which means you’ll be able to cook your food with confidence every time.
4. Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 1-3/4-Quart, Artichaut
- This 1.75-quart saucepan from Le Creuset is a must-have for hearty dishes and traditional soups alike with its flared edges that make stirring easy, even gripping helper handle which provides extra control when transferring to the table.
- The superior heat distribution and retention of enameled cast iron are clear by the long-lasting exterior enamel finish.
- This dishwasher-safe cookware has been proven to provide excellent performance on all cooking surfaces, including electric or induction hobs – even with radiant heat – as well as gas or ceramic hobs.
5. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 2.25 qt., Meringue
- For cooks who enjoy their stovetop cooking to be both professional and colorful, Le Creuset has the perfect answer. The cook with a flair for style will enjoy making sauces in this vibrant yellow or painted red with one of these pots that are sturdy yet lightweight due to being constructed entirely from cast iron.
- Even the lid is enameled. With an extended helper handle which means you can take more pans on your trips up and down kitchen stairs, plus contoured main handles for an easy grasp whenever you’re busy stirring, whether it’s browning meat or achieving creamy perfection.
- Don’t forget about reaching your desired temperature fast thanks to sealed composite knobs that have been created especially not to crack.
6. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 2.25 qt., Indigo
- Ready-to-use saucepan seasoned with 100% non-GMO flaxseed oil. Does not contain PTFE and PFOA that can be harmful to your health, Flaxseed oils are vegetable-based which makes them perfect for this type of cooking utensil.
- The smoothly curved interior will make it easier than ever before while also providing added control when transferring cookware on the stovetop or between kitchen space as well as a table height due in part to its extra-long helper handle allowing you more leverage during any task requiring larger amounts applied force/control.
7. Bayou Classic -1-qt Cast Iron Saucepan with Self-Basting Lid
- Salvaged cast iron cookware from the heart of the Louisiana bayou, this 1-Qt pot is made for anything and everything that doesn’t touch a stovetop. You can use it even in an oven or broiler, perfect for slow roasting, baking, and grilling.
- The built-in lid will keep your food inside and prevent it from burning, while still allowing excess moisture to evaporate: like magic. It also cleans up nicely between uses.
- We know you love cooking as much as we do around here, so make sure this beauty lasts you a lifetime. Perfect size to boil an egg or simmer some brewsky on those cold winter days ahead.
8. Lodge Cast Iron Saucepan, 15.2 oz, Black
- The 2 Ounce Cast Iron Melting Pot with Silicone Basting Brush is the perfect tool for basting, mixing sauces and food.
- Cast iron is a centuries-old cooking staple. It’s unparalleled in heat retention and even heating, which makes it the perfect material for your favorite recipes. Seasoned with oil to create an easy-release finish that improves as you use them over time. This durable metal will last through generations of cooks like nothing else can.
- Silicone Basting Brush is perfect for basting large projects like cakes and quiches. The silicone head of this brush can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, so you don’t need to worry about burning yourself with hot oil or sauce. This product also has a removable design that makes cleanup quick and simple, just put it in the dishwasher after every use if necessary.
- This pots and pans set is a joy to use, especially when cooking with all different kinds of oils. The pot can get really hot so make sure you don’t touch it for at least 10 minutes after using it since the metal could get scorched by accident.
9. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 1.75 qt., Caribbean
- You don’t have to deal with extreme temperatures or food sticking when you use the Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron, 1.75 qt., Caribbean. The chipping-resistant exterior enamel gives your kitchen a pop of color while providing long-lasting quality that’ll keep it looking shiny for years to come.
- Cooking is easy too since the sand-colored interior makes it hard to get distracted by anything else you’re doing in the kitchen.
- With an oversized handle, you get even weight distribution and a tight grip so there’s no chance of dropping this one on your floor or carpeting while you cook up some tasty dishes.
10. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 3.25 qt., Cerise
- Ideal for slow simmering, perfecting sauces, pastries, and much more, this 5-quart Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan features an attractive exterior enamel that resists chipping and cracking.
- The interior enamel is engineered to resist staining and dulling. Made of durable cast iron with superior heat distribution properties. The pan heats slowly even on cool ranges due to its thick metal base.
- Features include comfortable oversized handles which make it easier to maneuver big pots with one hand. A rustproof stainless steel knob makes oven cooking safer, non-stick crème brûlée base prevents sticking or burning, built-in lid stabilizers ensure an airtight seal every time, no spinning required.
11. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 2.25 qt., Caribbean
- The perfect all-in-one pot, Le Creuset’s Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan transforms any meal from ordinary to incredible. The exciting Caribbean color makes it easy to add bursts of flavor to your dishes for a unique take on an old family recipe.
- Its vibrant sparkle will leave you enamored by its beauty while its durability leaves you free to enjoy years of delicious meals filled with the memories of the past. Makes any dish taste incredible overnight.
12. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 1.75 qt., Cerise
- There’s a reason that Le Creuset has been making quality cookware for over 140 years, and it shows every time you use this beautiful piece of enameled cast iron.
- From the color to the exterior finish, it won’t let you down, whether you’re boating your food or cooking it on a gas stove.
- The French heritage shines through with its easy-grip handles and even weight distribution. Keeping cooking at an optimum temperature is never difficult because these powerful pots can handle any oven setting without rusting or warping.
- With loved ones like these by your side all day long, cooking will be easier than ever before.
13. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 2.25 qt., Cerise
- Stylish and durable, this Le Creuset saucepan comes in a beautiful Cerise color with a smooth ceramic interior that is easy to clean. The oversized handles provide a secure grip while the long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping or cracking.
- This 2.25 qt pot is perfect for a smaller number of ingredients and cooking food evenly on the stovetop, oven, or microwave.
- Enjoy cooking small dishes without worrying about them spilling out onto your cookware thanks to the lid stabilizing feature that provides a more secure fit when covering up from the heat.
14. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Saucepan, 1.75 qt., Meringue
- LE CREUSET Enameled Cast Iron Saucepans are perfect for cooking and serving at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter or other family gatherings. They also make an excellent choice if you love to cook and entertain during the holidays because they last so many years and keep beautiful and in great shape.
- Most cooks want their saucepan to be a good fit for all their needs so this year we recommend the new LE CREUSET Meringue Enameled Cast Iron 1.75 qt., Which features oversized handles that provide even weight distribution between handles while making it easy to securely grip these pans when stirring sauces on your stovetop or picking them up off of hot sheets in the oven.
Tips and guide to buying the best Cast Iron Saucepan
Sizes
The best way to buy a new cast-iron saucepan is to choose one that directly matches your current cooking needs. If you’re only going to be making a few tablespoons of gravy or heating up a couple of hotdogs then a 1 or 2-quart pan should work fine.
For those who do more cooking, consider buying a three-quart pan for simmering soups and stews. For longer frying use something larger at five quarts, especially if you often make recipes with over six servings like my chili recipe.
Easy to use
Another important consideration is whether or not the handles are balanced and comfortable. Cast-iron cookware can get extremely hot on your stovetop, so you want to make sure that they are easy to lift even when carrying a full pot of boiling water.
Also, look for pans with helper handles on each side of the Cast Iron Saucepan which make them easier to carry. A helper handle on one side of the pan usually isn’t enough because the weight is all distributed on one side of the handle resulting in an awkward grip. The helper handle will accommodate two fingers instead of one making it easier to carry over long distances without dropping.
If you’re looking for something with pouring spouts then consider buying one with three rather than just one since liquids pour out faster with three spouts.
The best Cast Iron Saucepans are often sold with metal handles that have a crosshatch design that provides maximum grip even when it’s hot. Three rivets should be used to reinforce the handle for added strength since cast iron is very heavy and people always seem to grab these pots by their panhandles.
Dishwasher safe
As with most pots and Cast Iron Saucepans, the best cast-iron cookware should be easy to clean by hand. However, you also want it to be dishwasher safe so that after cooking something sticky like caramel or cheese you can just put them in the dishwasher for easier cleanup.
Look for enamel coating
If you plan on using your Cast Iron Saucepan indoors as an indoor grill then look for one with a porcelain enamel finish instead of seasoning it yourself since high heat releases toxic fumes that cause lead poisoning. Enamel is much more scratch-resistant than seasoned bare cast iron so they’re much safer to use year after year without ruining the nonstick surface.
The best way to test out whether or not a new cast-iron saucepan is of high quality is to check how it feels in your hands. The best-cast iron pots are sturdy with smooth bottoms that offer even heat distribution.
They should feel heavy but not so much that you can’t lift them, and their lids should fit snugly on top of the pan so they don’t come off while cooking. Look for black color rather than gray or silver since they’re more prone to rusting unless enameled or properly seasoned.
Tips for using your Cast Iron Saucepan
- Before using your new cast iron pan, season it by rubbing the entire inside surface with lard or vegetable shortening so it’s slightly sticky. Allow the excess to drip off then bake in a 400-degree oven for an hour.
- If you want to use it for frying, don’t season the cooking surface because the high heat will cause it to break down and wear away. Season both sides of the pan evenly before first use, allowing them to cool completely before removing any excess oil on them with paper towels.
- Make sure your seasoning process is done correctly, otherwise your cookware will stick like crazy even when they’re well seasoned. To test if they are properly seasoned, coat the bottom with a thin layer of vegetable oil and heat it over high heat until the oil starts to smoke.
- When you see small drips of white smoke coming from the cooking surface, turn off the stovetop then use paper towels to wipe away any excess oil. Let your new cast iron cookware cool completely before storing or using them since they can get extremely hot on your stovetop.
- Never wash them with soap again once you season them because it will break down their seasoning making food stick even more than before. Instead just rub a little salt over the surface to remove stuck-on particles, wipe away any excess salt after cleaning, and rub a thin layer of vegetable oil onto both sides for protection all year long.
FAQs about a Cast Iron Saucepan
How do you clean a new cast iron saucepan with rust on it?
New cast iron pans often come with some amount of rust on the surface due to high humidity during shipping. To clean it, first remove any excess debris using a cloth or towel then rub it down with steel wool dipped in vegetable oil.
How do you maintain a cast iron saucepan?
To maintain your new cast iron pan, just clean it using hot water and scrubbing with a stiff brush to remove tough food particles. After washing it thoroughly, just dry it up immediately by placing it over high heat for 10 minutes.
How do I season my cast-iron saucepan?
There are two ways you can properly season your cast iron cookware: You can use lard or vegetable shortening on the inside of the pan before heating it in an oven for 60 to 90 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit…or…you can coat them with vegetable oil then place them in an oven heated to 200 degrees Fahrenheit until the oil starts smoking.
Is seasoning cast iron pans necessary?
You don’t necessarily need to season your cast iron pan before using it but they will be more likely to stick if you don’t. Your best bet is to season both sides of the pan evenly with vegetable oil then place in a 400-degree oven for an hour.
Can I use a cast iron saucepan if I have an induction stove?
It depends. Cast iron pans won’t react with your induction stove, but it doesn’t mean that they’ll heat evenly. If you don’t preheat them properly then they will take longer to reach the desired temperature.
Conclusion for the Best Cast Iron Saucepan
Cast Iron Saucepans are a great resource for cooking and can last a lifetime if properly maintained. They conduct heat evenly which is why they’re the top choice of many chefs worldwide. If you want to buy one, make sure you find cast iron cookware that’s well-seasoned and has smooth cooking surfaces with no rust spots on them. It may take some time to season them properly but it’s worth it since cast iron pans will probably outlast most other cookware today.
If you are in the market for a new cast iron saucepan, we hope this article has helped you narrow down your options. Cast iron cookware is fantastic because it heats up quickly and evenly, retains heat well so that food doesn’t burn or overcook, is durable enough to last generations of use, and can be transferred from stovetop to oven with ease. All of these factors make cooking with cast iron more enjoyable than ever before. We believe that our list will serve as an excellent starting point for anyone looking to buy quality pans at great prices. So what are you waiting for? Pick one up today.
Brendan Roberts is a writer, photographer, and editor for Food 4 Kitchen. He is always eager to share useful knowledge with everyone. He graduated with a degree in journalism from Northwestern University in 2016 and now lives with his wife.