When it comes to cooking, few pans are as versatile or beloved as the humble cast iron skillet. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, a good cast iron skillet is an essential tool in your kitchen arsenal. And when it comes to recipes, there’s no shortage of delicious and creative ways to use this trusty pan.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 sizzling cast iron skillet recipes that are perfect for every occasion – from weeknight dinners to special occasions and even dessert! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken fajitas to decadent desserts like brownies and cobbler, these recipes showcase the best of what a cast iron skillet can do. So grab your favorite pan and get ready to cook up some culinary magic!
Classic Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
Warm up with a slice of comforting classic cornbread, baked to perfection in your trusty cast iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs until smooth.
4. Add the melted butter to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
6. Grease your 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
7. Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared skillet and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm, topped with honey or maple syrup if desired!
Garlic Butter Steak with Rosemary
Elevate your steak game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the earthy flavor of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
4. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the top of the steak.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet-Baked Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the ease of cooking in a skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove skillet from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and mac and cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Deep-Dish Pizza
Savor the classic flavors of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with this simple recipe that yields a crispy crust and gooey cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place the dough in a pre-heated cast iron skillet, pressing it into the corners.
4. Mix mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then spread evenly over the dough.
5. Sprinkle parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper on top of the cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil around the crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Perfectly Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this effortless recipe that yields tender, caramelized scallops smothered in a zesty lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the lemon juice to the pan and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
4. Meanwhile, season the scallops with salt and pepper.
5. In a large skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over high heat. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the scallops from the pan and place on a plate. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top.
7. Garnish with parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Fajitas
Quickly cook up a flavorful and spicy meal with this one-pan recipe that combines chicken, bell peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning. Serve it with warm flour or corn tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp fajita seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle with fajita seasoning and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then serve hot.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie
Elevate your cookie game with this gooey, chocolatey skillet treat that’s perfect for a crowd. This recipe is a twist on the classic cookie, baked to perfection in a single skillet for a crispy exterior and chewy interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), melted
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, white granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Whisk in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Seared Pork Chops with Apples
Cast Iron Seared Pork Chops with Apples Recipe
Dutch Baby Pancake with Berries
Discover the delight of a classic Dutch Baby Pancake paired with sweet and tangy berries! This recipe yields a fluffy, tender pancake filled with fresh berries and topped with powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into a hot skillet or omelette pan.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
6. Top with fresh berries and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skillet-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A classic combination of crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts and smoky bacon, all in one convenient skillet!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe sauté pan, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the same skillet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are caramelized and tender.
6. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and toss with the roasted Brussels sprouts.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cast Iron Ribeye with Herb Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring a rich and flavorful herb butter to complement the perfectly seared ribeye.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs ribeye steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the ribeye with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes. Add the steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix the softened butter with chopped parsley and thyme.
6. Remove the steak from the oven and spread the herb butter evenly over the top.
7. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Skillet Peach Cobbler
This recipe for Skillet Peach Cobbler is a creative twist on the classic dessert, perfect for serving warm and topped with vanilla ice cream. The combination of tender peaches, crispy biscuit topping, and golden brown crust will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup biscuit or cobbler topping mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring until the mixture is well combined.
4. Top with biscuit or cobbler topping mix, spreading evenly.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the topping.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the peaches are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Cast Iron Shakshuka
A flavorful and spicy North African-inspired dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe uses a cast iron skillet to create a crispy crust on the bottom of the shakshuka.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until they start to soften, another 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Create 4 small wells in the sauce for the eggs.
7. Crack an egg into each well.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
9. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with feta cheese crumbles (if using), and garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin
Elevate your cooking skills with this easy-to-make pan-seared salmon recipe, featuring a crispy skin that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt
– Pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse salmon fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place salmon fillets, skin side up, in the skillet.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Flip salmon over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this simple and satisfying recipe that cooks everything to perfection in one cast iron skillet. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet; cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on top of the meat mixture.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the chips.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Homemade Cast Iron Flatbread
Elevate your meals with a crispy, flavorful flatbread made from scratch using your trusty cast iron skillet. This simple recipe yields a delicious and versatile bread that’s perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4-6 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s well combined and slightly sticky.
5. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
7. Cook the flatbread in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Skillet Blueberry Pancakes
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful skillet blueberry pancakes. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the preheated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Cast Iron Roasted Whole Chicken
Roasted Whole Chicken in a Cast Iron Skillet: A Hearty and Flavorful Main Course
This recipe yields a mouthwatering roasted whole chicken, perfectly seasoned and crispy-skinned, with minimal mess and fuss. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the chicken with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a preheated 12-inch cast iron skillet and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the depth of caramelized onions with the creaminess of Gruyère cheese, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deep golden brown and caramelized.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the onions.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush the pastry with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Brownies
Take your brownie game to the next level with this recipe that combines the perfect blend of gooey chocolatey goodness, crispy edges, and a hint of cast iron skillet flavor. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (120g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Melt the butter and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into a well-seasoned cast iron skillet and smooth out.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sizzle with these 20 mouth-watering cast iron skillet recipes! From classic cornbread and garlic butter steak to decadent brownies and skillet-baked mac and cheese, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned chef, this collection of recipes will guide you through the process of cooking up a storm in your trusty cast iron skillet. With dishes ranging from savory and spicy to sweet and indulgent, you’ll never run out of ideas for dinner (or breakfast, or snack time…). So go ahead, fire up that skillet, and get ready to impress!
