If there’s one kitchen gadget that I love, it’s my trusty cast iron skillet. Not only are they durable and long-lasting, but you can use them to cook just about anything.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, cast iron skillets are a versatile tool that can help you create delicious meals that your family and friends will love.
If you’re looking for some new recipes to add to your cast iron skillet repertoire, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of 35 easy and tasty recipes that will have you falling in love with your skillet all over again.
35 Easy Cast Iron Skillet Recipes
1. Classic Skillet Cornbread
Cornbread is the perfect side dish for any Southern-style meal, and there’s nothing like a hot buttery slice straight out of your cast iron skillet. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. And, let’s face it, who doesn’t love carbs?
2. Crispy Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are often overlooked, but they’re actually a great cut of meat for skillet cooking. This recipe produces crispy, juicy chicken that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
3. Cast Iron Skillet Pizza
Why bother with delivery when you can make your own pizza right at home? Not only is pizza great for a family dinner, but it’s also perfect for game night with friends.
4. Cast Iron Skillet Lasagna
Yes, you read that right. You can actually make lasagna in a cast iron skillet. This recipe is easy to follow and produces a lasagna that’s just as good as any you’d get at your favorite Italian restaurant.
5. Skillet Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is one of those classic comfort foods that everyone loves. And making it in a cast iron skillet just takes it to the next level. This recipe is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious.
6. Cast Iron Skillet Fried Rice
Fried rice is a favorite in my household, and this recipe is a great way to use up any leftover rice you might have. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies and protein.
7. Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that’s especially popular during the holidays. But why limit it to just one time a year? This recipe is easy to make and perfect for any dinner party.
8. Cast Iron Skillet Baked Ziti
This baked ziti recipe is just like the lasagna recipe above, except with ziti noodles. It’s a great option for those who don’t love the layering process that comes with making lasagna.
9. Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a classic British dish that’s essentially a meat pie topped with mashed potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a chilly winter evening and is sure to leave everyone feeling full and satisfied.
10. Skillet Nachos
Nachos are always a crowd-pleaser, and making them in a cast iron skillet is a great way to get everyone involved. Just add your favorite toppings and let everyone dig in.
11. Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
This recipe is perfect for fall and winter, when apples are in season and pork chops are a hearty protein option. The apples and onions add a nice sweetness to the dish.
12. Cast Iron Skillet Corn Casserole
If you’re a fan of corn casserole, you’ll love this cast iron skillet version. It’s easy to make and makes a great side dish for any meal.
13. Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
These shrimp fajitas are quick and easy to make, and they’re a healthier alternative to beef or chicken fajitas. Plus, the bright, colorful veggies make them look as good as they taste.
14. Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs
Who doesn’t love a good meatball? This recipe is easy to follow and produces meatballs that are flavorful and juicy. Plus, cooking them in a cast iron skillet gives them a nice crust on the outside.
15. Skillet Shepherd’s Breakfast Casserole
This casserole is essentially a breakfast version of the shepherd’s pie recipe we mentioned earlier. It’s packed with eggs, sausage, and veggies, and it’s the perfect way to fuel up for a busy day.
16. Skillet Chicken and Green Beans
This recipe is perfect for those nights when you just don’t feel like doing a ton of dishes. Everything cooks up in one skillet, and the addition of bacon really takes it to the next level.
17. Skillet S’mores Dip
Can’t make a campfire? No problem. This s’mores dip is the perfect way to get your fix of gooey melted marshmallows and chocolate. Just grab some graham crackers and dive in.
18. Cast Iron Skillet Brownies
Brownies are always a hit, and this recipe produces brownies that are fudgy, chocolatey, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, making them in a cast iron skillet gives them a nice crispy texture on the outside.
19. Skillet Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe is perfect for those nights when you’re craving comfort food. It’s essentially a chicken pot pie with a biscuit crust, and it’s just as good as anything you’d get at a restaurant.
20. Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp
This apple crisp is the perfect way to use up any apples you might have lying around. The topping is buttery and crunchy, and the apples are sweet and tart. It’s a great option for dessert.
21. Cast Iron Skillet Steak
Craving steakhouse vibes? Cast iron to the rescue!
Sear a thick-cut steak in a screaming hot pan for a crackling crust, then lock in juicy tenderness. Bam! Restaurant-worthy dinner in minutes, minus the wait.
22. Skillet Corned Beef Hash
Indulge in a hearty breakfast or brunch option featuring corned beef, potatoes, and eggs cooked to perfection in a skillet.
23. Cast Iron Skillet Tacos
Elevate taco night by preparing your taco filling in a cast iron skillet, adding a special touch to this beloved Mexican dish.
24. Skillet Beef and Broccoli
Experience a quick and easy way to recreate the classic takeout dish of beef and broccoli at home, all in the convenience of a skillet.
25. Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp Scampi
Cook up succulent shrimp in a flavorful garlic and lemon butter sauce, creating a mouthwatering shrimp scampi right in your cast iron skillet.
26. Skillet Potato Pancakes
Savor crispy and delicious potato pancakes, a perfect choice for a savory breakfast or a delightful side dish, all made in a skillet.
27. Cast Iron Skillet Gnocchi
Pan-fry gnocchi for a delightful crispy texture and pair it with your favorite sauce for a simple and delicious skillet dish.
28. Skillet Sausage and Peppers
Delight in an Italian-inspired dish featuring sausage, bell peppers, and onions, all cooked to perfection in a skillet.
29. Cast Iron Skillet Tofu Stir-Fry
Explore a vegetarian-friendly stir-fry with tofu and a variety of vegetables, cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet.
30. Skillet Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Enjoy a layered casserole featuring tortillas, chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce, all seamlessly cooked in a skillet for a flavorful meal.
31. Cast Iron Skillet Teriyaki Salmon
Create a flavorful teriyaki glaze for your salmon and cook it to perfection in a cast iron skillet, elevating your salmon dinner experience.
32. Skillet Sausage and Potato Hash
Indulge in a hearty one-pan meal with sausage, potatoes, and onions, all cooked to perfection in a skillet for a satisfying dish.
33. Cast Iron Skillet Pecan Pie
Bake a classic pecan pie with a perfectly crispy crust, showcasing the versatility of your cast iron skillet in dessert preparation.
34. Skillet Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Share a warm and creamy spinach and artichoke dip at gatherings, prepared effortlessly in a skillet for a delightful sharing experience.
35. Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken
Delight in a bright and zesty chicken dish cooked with lemon and butter, creating a flavorful experience in your trusty skillet.
Final Thoughts,
There you have it – 35 delicious cast iron skillet recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, mac and cheese, or s’mores, there’s something on this list for everyone. So dust off that cast iron skillet and get cooking!
