Deep frying is a popular cooking method that creates crispy and flavorful food. It requires oil heated to the right temperature to cook food quickly and evenly. Using the right cookware is important to get good results and to keep cooking safe and easy.
Cast iron cookware has been used for generations because it heats well and lasts a long time. A cast iron deep fryer skillet combines the benefits of cast iron’s heat retention with a deep design that holds enough oil for frying. This makes it a versatile tool for frying foods like chicken, fries, and doughnuts.
When choosing a cast iron deep fryer skillet, key factors to consider include the size, depth, and weight of the pan. The thickness of the cast iron affects how evenly it heats. You also want a skillet with a handle design that stays cool and a seasoning that prevents sticking. We researched and tested several cast iron deep fryer skillets to find ones that are reliable and easy to use.
Best Cast Iron Deep Fryer Skillets
We have reviewed several cast iron deep fryer skillets to help you find the best one for your kitchen. Our list includes durable and reliable options that deliver even heat and excellent frying results.
Lodge Deep Skillet
This deep cast iron skillet is a solid choice if you want a versatile pan that holds heat well and works for many cooking styles.
Pros
- Holds heat evenly for consistent cooking
- Deep sides reduce splatter when frying
- Pre-seasoned for easier food release right away
Cons
- Heavy, takes some strength to handle
- Requires hand washing and careful drying
- Can take time to build better seasoning
We found the Lodge deep skillet very useful for frying since the high edges keep oil splashes under control. It heats evenly across the pan, so foods brown nicely on all sides. Using it to sear meat or make a stew felt easy once we got used to managing the weight.
Its pre-seasoned surface helped prevent sticking from the start, although seasoning does improve with regular use. Cleaning takes some effort since it cannot go in the dishwasher, but that is standard for cast iron.
Overall, this pan feels durable and multipurpose, ideal for anyone who wants one pan for frying, baking, and more without worrying about synthetic coatings. It’s a bit heavy, but that also means it stays hot longer when cooking.
Lodge 5 Quart Deep Skillet
This skillet is great for those who want a tough, versatile pan that holds heat well and is ready to use right away.
Pros
- Holds heat evenly and for a long time
- Comes pre-seasoned, so little prep needed
- Includes a lid and an extra handle for easier use
Cons
- Heavy and bulky to lift or move
- Needs hand washing and regular oiling
- Takes time to heat up initially
We found this skillet very reliable for deep frying and even baking. The large size and depth make it easy to cook big meals. Having a lid that fits tightly helps keep heat in and speeds up cooking.
Because it’s made of cast iron, the pan keeps heat evenly, which makes frying food crisp without hot spots. It also works well on grills and campfires, so it’s versatile for different cooking setups.
Cleaning takes a bit more effort since it can’t go in the dishwasher. You need to dry it fully and oil it after each use to keep the seasoning and avoid rust. The weight can be a challenge if you want to lift it quickly. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you want durable cookware that lasts for years.
Lodge Chicken Fryer Skillet
This deep cast iron fryer skillet is a solid choice for those who want even heating and durability for frying or roasting.
Pros
- Holds heat steadily for thorough cooking
- Comes with a lid to keep food moist
- Pre-seasoned and improves with use
Cons
- Heavy to lift, especially when full
- Takes time to heat up before cooking
- Requires hand washing to maintain
Using this skillet, we noticed how well it keeps temperature steady, which made frying chicken turn out crispy every time. The lid fits tightly and helps keep moisture in, which was great for roasting potatoes without drying them out.
It is quite heavy to handle. We found it easier to lift with two hands by the side handles. Heating the pan before cooking takes patience; it’s not for quick meals.
Cleaning involves hand washing and drying immediately to avoid rust, but regular use improves the natural seasoning. We liked that it is built tough and should last for many years with good care.
EDGING 2-in-1 Cast Iron Deep Fryer Skillet
This skillet set is a solid choice for cooking a wide range of meals thanks to its durable design and versatility.
Pros
- Comes pre-seasoned and ready to use
- The skillet lid doubles as a pan for frying or baking
- Sturdy dual handles make carrying safe and easy
Cons
- Heavier than many other skillets, which can be hard to handle
- Surface texture is rough and needs extra seasoning at first
- Not dishwasher safe, hand washing required
We found the pre-seasoned surface helpful for starting out without a lot of preparation. The skillet lid helps when frying or baking, adding to the set’s usefulness. Handling the pot is easier because of the two strong loop handles on both the pot and skillet.
Cooking with it means excellent heat distribution, which we noticed especially when baking bread or simmering stews. It retains heat well, helping keep food warm after cooking. The weight feels substantial, which some may like for sturdiness but it can be a bit much for quick moves or one-handed tasks.
Cleaning requires hand washing and drying by warming on the stove, but this care routine helped keep the seasoning in good condition. We’d recommend this skillet for anyone looking for something durable that works well both indoors and outdoors.
Lodge Mini Wok
This mini cast iron wok is a solid choice for small meals that need even heat and long-lasting performance.
Pros
- Holds heat well for even cooking
- Pre-seasoned and ready to use
- Sturdy, durable build
Cons
- Quite heavy for its size
- Needs regular seasoning upkeep
- Not good for tossing food
We found this Lodge Mini Wok heats up evenly and retains heat longer than other small pans. It worked great for simple stir-fries and frying small portions. The cast iron surface improved over time with use.
The loop handles make it easier to move from stove to table, but the wok is a bit heavy and not ideal if you want to toss ingredients mid-cook. Hand washing and regular oiling is needed to avoid rust and keep the seasoning intact.
For one or two people, this mini wok fits well on electric or gas stoves without wobbling. Its compact size and solid heat retention make it a practical tool for everyday cooking.
If you want a tough, heat-retentive pan that will last years and don’t mind the weight, the Lodge Mini Wok performs reliably.
Buying Guide
When choosing a cast iron deep fryer skillet, we first look at the size. The skillet should be big enough to hold enough oil and food without crowding. A larger size means more food can fit, but it also takes longer to heat.
The depth of the skillet matters too. A deeper skillet helps keep oil from splashing out. It also lets us fry bigger items more safely.
We focus on the material quality. Cast iron should feel heavy and solid. Check that the finish is smooth so food won’t stick easily. Some skillets come pre-seasoned, which can save time.
Handle design is important for safety. A sturdy, cool-touch handle helps us move the skillet without burning ourselves. Some skillets have helper handles on the side for easier lifting.
We also think about lid availability. A lid helps keep heat in and oil clean. Not all skillets come with a lid, so this is worth checking.
Key Features to Compare
| Feature | Why It Matters | What To Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Holds more food, affects heating speed | Suitable for your cooking |
| Depth | Reduces splashing and holds oil better | At least 3 inches deep |
| Material | Heavy and durable for even heat | Smoothed, pre-seasoned cast iron |
| Handle | Safety when moving skillet | Long, sturdy, cool-touch |
| Lid | Retains heat and reduces mess | Fits tightly and fits skillet |
We also consider ease of cleaning. A good skillet should be simple to wash and maintain. Avoid skillets with rough surfaces that need extra care.