Cast iron cookware is a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. Not only does it distribute heat evenly, but it also adds a touch of nostalgia to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, cast iron is an investment worth making. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! With these 20 savory recipes, you’ll be whipping up everything from classic cornbread to decadent chocolate chip cookies in no time.
From breakfast to dinner and even dessert, we’ve got you covered with our roundup of must-try cast iron recipes. Say goodbye to mediocre meals and hello to a world of flavor and texture that will leave your taste buds singing!
Cast Iron Skillet Pizza
Get ready to enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful pizza right from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Place the dough in a preheated cast iron skillet, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
6. Add chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Cast Iron Cornbread
This iconic American dessert combines the warmth of cast iron with the sweetness of cornbread, resulting in a crispy exterior and fluffy interior that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
5. Pour the batter into a preheated cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Seared Steak
A classic steak recipe that yields a juicy, caramelized crust on the outside and a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 steaks (depending on size and desired portion), preferably ribeye or strip loin
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet, then carefully place the steak in the pan.
5. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– Medium-rare: 12-14 minutes total cooking time
– Medium: 15-17 minutes total cooking time
Cast Iron Apple Crisp
Warm up with a classic Cast Iron Apple Crisp recipe that’s perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings! This easy-to-make dessert is a staple of fall, combining tender apples with a crunchy oat topping and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast iron skillet, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Add melted butter and stir until crumbs form.
4. Top the apple mixture with the oat crumb mixture, spreading evenly to cover the entire skillet.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cast Iron Dutch Baby Pancake
This classic recipe yields a puffed and golden pancake with a crispy edges and a fluffy interior, perfect for breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and a cast iron skillet, you’ll be enjoying a delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120ml) milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt to taste
– Optional: sugar, fruit, or nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and flour until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the batter into a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cast Iron Garlic Butter Shrimp
Savory shrimp cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with the warm flavors of cast iron cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Serve the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cast Iron Roasted Chicken Thighs
Roasted Chicken Thighs in Cast Iron: A Simple and Savory Delight
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken thighs with a crispy exterior, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The cast iron pan adds a depth of flavor and helps to crisp up the skin.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the cast iron pan and brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cast Iron Chocolate Chip Cookie
Cast Iron Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Rich Treat
Enjoy the gooey, indulgent goodness of classic chocolate chip cookies cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Pour batter into a preheated cast iron skillet (9-10 inches).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Lasagna
Cast Iron Skillet Lasagna: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
Elevate your lasagna game with this unique recipe that cooks the pasta and sauce directly in a cast iron skillet. The result is a crispy, caramelized crust and perfectly cooked noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
4. Arrange half of the cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
5. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture (ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan) over the noodles.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 with the remaining ingredients.
7. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Blueberry Cobbler
Cast Iron Blueberry Cobbler Recipe
Summary: This sweet and savory recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the warmth of a cast iron skillet, creating a delicious cobbler that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, salt, and flour.
3. Add blueberries and toss gently to combine.
4. Melt butter in the preheated cast iron skillet over medium heat.
5. Pour in blueberry mixture and spread evenly.
6. Combine heavy cream and remaining 1 tablespoon of cold butter; mix until smooth.
7. Pour the cobbler topping over the blueberry mixture, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and fruit is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Honey Butter Rolls
Savor the warmth and comfort of homemade rolls infused with the sweetness of honey and butter, perfectly cooked to a crispy golden brown.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
6. Cut into 8 equal pieces, shape each into a ball, then flatten slightly.
7. Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or directly in the preheated cast iron skillet.
8. Drizzle with melted butter and honey, allowing excess to drizzle off.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Sausage and Peppers
This classic recipe yields a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By cooking the sausage and peppers in a cast iron skillet, you’ll get a nice sear on the sausage and a tender, slightly caramelized pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage (such as Italian sausage or Chorizo)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Add the sausage to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
6. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
A classic dessert gets a cast iron twist! This pineapple upside-down cake is a staple of American baking, and when cooked in a cast iron skillet, it takes on a crispy, caramelized crust that elevates the flavors to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pineapple rings
– 1/4 cup cherry halves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Arrange pineapple rings and cherry halves (if using) in the cast iron skillet.
6. Pour batter over the fruit and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Herb-Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside results. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, rosemary leaves, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Place the potatoes in a preheated cast iron skillet or baking dish in a single layer, leaving some space between each wedge.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside, flipping them halfway through cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cast Iron Blackened Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and savory dish featuring blackened salmon cooked to perfection in a well-seasoned cast iron pan.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Season both sides of each salmon fillet evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Heat the cast iron pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Add olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom.
6. Sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Remove from the oven, let rest for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Nachos
Cast Iron Skillet Nachos: A Game-Changing Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 large cast iron skillet
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey, cooked and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on the cast iron skillet.
3. Spread refried beans over the chips, followed by cooked ground beef or turkey.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cast Iron Cinnamon Roll
Start your day with a warm, gooey, and utterly delicious Cast Iron Cinnamon Roll. This recipe is a game-changer for breakfast lovers who want to elevate their morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water, melted butter, beaten egg, and cinnamon. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Place the dough in the preheated skillet or pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is a great way to showcase the versatility of cast iron cookware.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Add the soy sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cast Iron Peach Cobbler
Cast Iron Peach Cobbler Recipe
A warm, comforting dessert perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh peaches, sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought), rolled out to fit cast iron skillet
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until peaches are evenly coated.
3. Pour peach mixture into the prepared cast iron skillet, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit skillet, placing it on top of peach mixture. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Cut a few slits in the center of the crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cast Iron Mushroom and Spinach Frittata
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines sautéed mushrooms and spinach with eggs, all cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt, then add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to distribute the vegetables evenly.
5. Cook the frittata for about 6-8 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress with these 20 savory cast iron recipes perfect for any occasion! From classic cornbread to decadent chocolate chip cookies, and from hearty steak dinners to sweet apple crisps, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Try your hand at cast iron skillet pizza, roasted chicken thighs, garlic butter shrimp, and many more delicious dishes that will become staples in your kitchen.