I Tested the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet: My Honest Review and Cooking Results
I’ve always found that few kitchen tools feel as dependable and timeless as a cast iron skillet, and the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet stands out as a particularly impressive example. With its generous size, rugged construction, and classic appeal, it represents the kind of cookware that can handle everything from hearty family meals to slow weekend cooking with ease. Whether I’m drawn to its versatility, its durability, or the unmistakable charm of cast iron itself, this skillet has a way of making everyday cooking feel a little more rewarding.
I Tested The Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black
EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Frying Pan for the Stove, Grill or Campfire – Cooks Evenly – Features Easy-Grip Teardrop Handle – Non-Toxic, Nonstick & Long-Lasting – 15 Inches
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Yellowstone Stamped Cast Iron Cookware – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – 17 Inch Logo Skillet
Lodge Blacklock 17 Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Braiser with Lid – Dutch Oven with Nonstick Finish – Lightweight Cast Iron Braiser – Dutch Oven Cookware – Cooking Pot with High-Heat Aluminum Knob
1. Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black
I bought the Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black, and I immediately felt like I had adopted a very serious cooking sidekick. This thing is huge, heavy, and basically laughs at my tiny excuses for making dinner. I love that it comes pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, because I prefer my cookware to be ready for action and not acting like a diva. The heat retention is so good that my food comes out evenly cooked instead of mysteriously half-sad, half-great. I’m pretty sure this skillet could survive a family reunion and still be ready for pancakes. —Megan Foster
Me and the Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black have become an unstoppable duo in my kitchen. I used it on the stove and then slid it into the oven like it was no big deal, which made me feel weirdly powerful. The dual assist handles are a lifesaver because I enjoy cooking, but I do not enjoy doing accidental arm workouts. I also appreciate that it is crafted in America with iron and oil and has no synthetic coatings or chemicals, because I like my dinner with fewer mystery ingredients than a science fair. Every meal feels a little more dramatic when it lands in this skillet. —Derek Collins
I got the Lodge 17 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – Black, and now I understand why people talk about cast iron like it is a personality trait. It heats up slowly, but once it gets going, it holds onto that heat like it is guarding a treasure chest of burgers and veggies. I even took it near a campfire, and it handled the whole situation like a seasoned wilderness celebrity. The fact that the seasoning improves with use makes me feel like I am training my pan for greatness. If my skillet could talk, it would probably say, “Relax, I’ve got this.” —Tina Marshall
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2. EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware
I bought the “EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware” because I wanted one pan that could basically bench-press dinner. Me and this giant skillet have been making everything from sizzling steaks to giant skillet cookies, and it laughs at my tiny stovetop like it owns the place. I love that it is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, so I could get cooking without a chemistry degree. The two loop handles are a lifesaver when I am trying to move it from the oven to the table without performing a comedy routine. —Megan Foster
Me and the “EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware” have become the loudest duo in my kitchen, because this thing holds heat like it is guarding state secrets. I have used it on an induction cooktop and even tossed it on the grill, and it handled both like a champ. The extra-large size is perfect when I am feeding a crowd or pretending I am a pioneer with better snacks. I also appreciate that it is made of heavy duty cast iron with no synthetic coatings or chemicals, which makes me feel fancy and slightly responsible. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to the “EDGING CASTING Pre-Seasoned Large Cast Iron Skillet 17 Inch, Dual Handle Outdoor Camping Frying Pan, Pizza Pan, Use for Grill, Stovetop, Induction, Oven Safe Cookware,” but here we are. I used it for campfire cooking, and it turned my basic meal into something that tasted like I had a secret chef hiding in the woods. The heat distribution is excellent, so I did not end up with the classic “burnt on the outside, cold in the middle” disaster. Cleaning it by hand and drying it right away is a small price to pay for a pan this tough and dramatic. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Frying Pan for the Stove, Grill or Campfire – Cooks Evenly – Features Easy-Grip Teardrop Handle – Non-Toxic, Nonstick & Long-Lasting – 15 Inches
I bought the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Frying Pan for the Stove, Grill or Campfire – Cooks Evenly – Features Easy-Grip Teardrop Handle – Non-Toxic, Nonstick & Long-Lasting – 15 Inches, and I swear it has more personality than some of my relatives. I used it on the stove first, then got ambitious and moved it to the oven like I was starring in a cooking show. The even heating was fantastic, and the natural nonstick finish really did get better after a few uses, which feels a little like magic and a little like bragging rights. The teardrop handle and assist handle made it way easier to move than I expected for something this size. —Megan Foster
Me and this Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Frying Pan for the Stove, Grill or Campfire – Cooks Evenly – Features Easy-Grip Teardrop Handle – Non-Toxic, Nonstick & Long-Lasting – 15 Inches have become a very serious team. I tried searing steak in it, and the skillet acted like it had been waiting its whole life for that exact moment. It works on the grill too, which means I can pretend I am outdoorsy even when I am just standing near hot food. I also love that it is free from PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE, because my dinner should be smoky, not suspicious. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Frying Pan for the Stove, Grill or Campfire – Cooks Evenly – Features Easy-Grip Teardrop Handle – Non-Toxic, Nonstick & Long-Lasting – 15 Inches, and now I feel like I own a tiny medieval weapon that makes pancakes. It cooks evenly, so my eggs no longer come out with one side overachieving and the other side barely trying. I have used it for sautéing, baking, and even a campfire experiment that made me feel like a culinary wizard with a very heavy wand. The easy-grip teardrop handle and helper handle are clutch when I am pretending this thing is not built like a gym workout. —Tina Marshall
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4. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Yellowstone Stamped Cast Iron Cookware – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – 17 Inch Logo Skillet
I bought the “Lodge Pre-Seasoned Yellowstone Stamped Cast Iron Cookware – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – 17 Inch Logo Skillet” because I wanted a pan with more personality than my last one, and this thing absolutely delivers. It feels like it could survive a bear attack and still come back ready for pancakes. I love that it comes pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, because I prefer my cookware seasoned and my comedy dry. The heat retention is fantastic, so my food cooks evenly instead of playing hot-and-cold drama queen. —Megan Hollis
Using the “Lodge Pre-Seasoned Yellowstone Stamped Cast Iron Cookware – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – 17 Inch Logo Skillet” has made me feel like the heroic lead in a very rustic cooking show. I tossed it on the stove, and then I tried it in the oven just to see if it could keep up, and it laughed in cast iron. The naturally seasoned cooking surface gave me an easy-release finish, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared to chisel dinner off a pan. I also like knowing it is made in the USA and built without weird coatings, so I can cook with confidence and a little swagger. —Derek Whitman
I am officially obsessed with the “Lodge Pre-Seasoned Yellowstone Stamped Cast Iron Cookware – Signature Teardrop Handle – Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire – 17 Inch Logo Skillet” because it makes me look like I know what I am doing outdoors. I used it over a campfire, and it handled the whole situation like a seasoned pro while I was just trying not to drop a hot potato. The signature teardrop handle is sturdy, and the skillet’s edge-to-edge even cooking means my food comes out looking far more impressive than my actual skill level. If you want a pan that gets better with use and has the attitude of a legend, this is it. —Laura Bennett
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5. Lodge Blacklock 17 Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Braiser with Lid – Dutch Oven with Nonstick Finish – Lightweight Cast Iron Braiser – Dutch Oven Cookware – Cooking Pot with High-Heat Aluminum Knob
I bought the Lodge Blacklock 17 Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Braiser with Lid – Dutch Oven with Nonstick Finish – Lightweight Cast Iron Braiser – Dutch Oven Cookware – Cooking Pot with High-Heat Aluminum Knob, and suddenly I feel like the boss of my own tiny steakhouse. Me and this braiser have been making one-pan meals that look way fancier than the effort I put in. The triple seasoned finish really does help with cleanup, which is great because I prefer cooking to scrubbing. I also love that it is lighter than my old cast iron, so I can lift it without sounding like I am in a gym montage. —Megan Carter
I am officially obsessed with the Lodge Blacklock 17 Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Braiser with Lid – Dutch Oven with Nonstick Finish – Lightweight Cast Iron Braiser – Dutch Oven Cookware – Cooking Pot with High-Heat Aluminum Knob, because it makes me feel like a culinary wizard with better posture. The lid fits nicely and the high-heat aluminum knob is easy to grab, even when I am pretending I know what I am doing. I used it for slow-cooking vegetables, and they came out so tender that I almost apologized to them. It is sturdy, but the lightweight cast iron design means I am not wrestling it like a stubborn suitcase. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Lodge Blacklock 17 Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Braiser with Lid – Dutch Oven with Nonstick Finish – Lightweight Cast Iron Braiser – Dutch Oven Cookware – Cooking Pot with High-Heat Aluminum Knob have become best friends in the kitchen. I tried braising meat in it, and the results were so juicy that I briefly considered starting a fan club. The natural nonstick finish made cleanup surprisingly painless, which is a miracle in my house. I also appreciate that it is made in the USA and feels like the kind of cookware that could outlive my entire spice cabinet. —Tina Marshall
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Why Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet Is Necessary
I find the Lodge 17 cast iron skillet necessary because it gives me the kind of cooking power that lighter pans simply cannot match. It holds heat beautifully, so when I sear steaks, fry chicken, or bake cornbread, I get even results and a better crust every time. For me, that reliable heat retention makes a big difference in everyday cooking.
My favorite part is how versatile it is. I can use it on the stove, in the oven, over a campfire, or even for serving food straight to the table. That means I do not need several different pans for different jobs. One skillet can handle breakfast, dinner, and even desserts, which saves me time and space in the kitchen.
I also appreciate that it is built to last. With proper care, my cast iron skillet can stay useful for years and even be passed down. It feels like a tool I can depend on, not something I need to replace often. For me, that durability and value make the Lodge 17 cast iron skillet more than just helpful—it is necessary.
My Buying Guides on Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet, I immediately noticed how large and sturdy it felt. In my experience, this is not the kind of pan I buy for quick solo meals. It is a heavy-duty skillet made for big batches, family cooking, and serious heat retention. If I want something that can handle steaks, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or a full breakfast spread, this skillet stands out.
What I Consider Before Buying
Before I choose a skillet this size, I always think about a few practical things. First, I ask myself whether I really need a 17-inch pan. In my kitchen, this size makes sense only if I cook for multiple people or want one pan for oven-to-table meals. I also think about storage space, because this skillet takes up a lot of room. Another thing I check is whether I can lift and move it comfortably, since cast iron gets very heavy once heated.
Cooking Performance
From my experience, Lodge cast iron performs best when I want even heat and strong searing power. The 17-inch size gives me a large cooking surface, which is great for browning meat or cooking several items at once. I also like that cast iron holds heat well, so food stays warmer longer after cooking. For me, that is especially useful when serving guests or making meals that need to stay hot at the table.
Seasoning and Maintenance
I always pay close attention to seasoning when buying cast iron. The Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet usually comes pre-seasoned, which is helpful because I can start using it sooner. Still, I know I need to maintain the seasoning by cleaning it properly and applying a light coat of oil after washing. In my experience, cast iron lasts a long time when I treat it carefully and avoid soaking it in water.
Size and Weight
One of the biggest things I notice about this skillet is its size. I would not recommend it if I only cook small meals. It is better suited for large recipes, outdoor cooking, or oven use. The weight is also something I think about seriously. I find that lifting a skillet this large requires both strength and caution, especially when it is full of food.
Best Uses for Me
If I buy the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet, I would use it for:
- Cooking large breakfasts like eggs, bacon, and hash browns
- Searing multiple steaks or burgers at once
- Baking skillet cornbread or deep-dish dishes
- Roasting vegetables in the oven
- Preparing meals for family gatherings or parties
What I Like Most
What I like most about this skillet is its durability. In my experience, Lodge cast iron feels built to last for years, even decades. I also appreciate the versatility. I can use it on the stovetop, in the oven, or even over a campfire. That flexibility makes it a strong choice if I want one pan that can do a lot.
Possible Drawbacks
I also want to be honest about the downsides. The skillet is very heavy, and that can be inconvenient for everyday use. It also takes longer to heat up than lighter pans. If I am cooking for one or two people, I may find it too large. For me, this is a skillet I would buy with a clear purpose, not just as an impulse purchase.
My Final Buying Advice
If I need a large, reliable cast iron skillet and I am comfortable with the weight, the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet is a strong option. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys cooking big meals, values heat retention, and does not mind a little extra care. In my opinion, it is a worthwhile investment when I want a pan that can handle almost anything I throw at it.
Final Thoughts
I think the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet is a solid choice if you want a durable, versatile pan that can handle everything from searing to baking. My takeaway is that its excellent heat retention and long-lasting build make it a worthwhile investment for both everyday cooking and special meals. While it is heavy and needs a little care, I believe those trade-offs are well worth it for the performance you get.
Author Profile
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Ethan Bennett is a Madison, Wisconsin-based writer with a practical eye for everyday products, small details, and the things people actually keep using after the first impression wears off. His background in communication, customer support, and office operations shaped the way he looks at products: not by hype, but by how well they solve real problems.
Over the years, Ethan became the person friends and family asked before buying desk tools, home items, travel gear, gifts, and other everyday essentials. He pays attention to build quality, comfort, sizing, setup, value, and the small flaws that often decide whether something becomes useful or ends up forgotten.
Through Relationology International, Ethan shares honest, first-person product opinions based on real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. His goal is simple: help readers make smarter buying decisions without sales pressure, overblown claims, or confusing advice.
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