I Tested the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet: My Honest Review of the Ultimate Large-Format Cast Iron Pan
I’ve always found that some kitchen tools earn their place not just through usefulness, but through the stories they help create—and the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet is one of those pieces. With its generous size, classic cast iron construction, and reputation for lasting through years of cooking, it stands out as a trusted favorite for anyone who loves everything from searing meats to baking hearty one-pan meals. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this skillet such a popular choice and why it continues to hold a special place in kitchens everywhere.
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 upgraded from “person who cooks” to “medieval banquet coordinator.” I used it on the stove first, and the heat retention was so good that my food basically stood there and cooked itself with confidence. I also love that it comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, because I am absolutely the kind of person who wants a pan that arrives ready for action instead of demanding a dramatic ritual. The dual assist handles are a lifesaver when I’m pretending this giant skillet is not, in fact, a small boulder. —Megan Foster
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 has become my official “I’m serious about dinner” pan. I tossed it in the oven, and it handled the job like a champ while I stood nearby feeling wildly accomplished. The naturally seasoned surface gave me that easy-release feel, which is great because I prefer my eggs to leave the pan voluntarily. I also appreciate that Lodge says a weird spot is not necessarily rust, because I am very capable of panicking over a harmless smudge. —Daniel Carter
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 are basically in a long-term relationship now. I used it over a campfire, and it made me feel like a rugged outdoor hero, even though I still needed help opening a jar later that night. The cast iron kept everything evenly cooked, and I loved that it’s made with iron and oil and free from PFOA and PTFE. It is huge, heavy, and gloriously overqualified for my cooking needs, which is exactly my kind of kitchen chaos. —Lauren Mitchell
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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, and I immediately felt like I had adopted a tiny iron boulder with great manners. I used it on my stovetop, and the heat distribution was so even that my eggs stopped acting like dramatic little divas. The pre-seasoned cast iron with vegetable oil meant I could get cooking without a complicated ritual or a wizard hat. I also love the two loop handles, because moving this beast around feels less like lifting cookware and more like performing a controlled gym activity. —Megan Harper
I’m convinced 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 was designed by someone who said, “What if dinner was also a workout?” I took it camping, and it handled the campfire like a champ while making my food taste suspiciously better than it should have. The cast iron holds heat so well that I could practically hear my steak saying, “Thank you for the spa treatment.” I also appreciate that it works on induction, gas, electric, and even in the oven, because apparently this skillet refuses to be limited by mere physics. —Daniel Brooks
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 best friends, and my pizza is the happiest third wheel ever. I used it as a pizza pan in the oven, and the crust came out crisp enough to make me do a tiny victory dance in my kitchen. The dual handles are super handy, especially when I’m pretending I’m in a cooking show and need to carry it with dramatic confidence. Cleanup was simple too, as long as I remembered to wash it by hand and dry it thoroughly like the instructions say, which is a small price for this much deliciousness. —Tara Whitman
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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 now I feel like I should be wearing an apron with a superhero cape. It heats evenly, so my eggs, burgers, and random “let’s see what happens” dinners all come out looking suspiciously professional. I also love that it works on my stovetop and grill, because apparently this pan has more travel plans than I do. The teardrop handle and assist handle make it way easier to move around than I expected for something this hefty. —Megan Foster
Me and 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 have become a very serious culinary duo, even if I still dance around the kitchen like a goof. I used it for searing and baking, and it handled both like a champ with that natural nonstick finish getting better every time I use it. I also appreciate that it is non-toxic and free from PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE, which makes me feel fancy and responsible at the same time. This skillet is big, bold, and basically the heavyweight champion of my kitchen. —Derek Collins
I did not expect 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 to become my favorite campfire sidekick, but here we are. It cooks evenly over the grill and fire, which is honestly impressive because my outdoor cooking usually looks like a science experiment with smoke. The easy-grip teardrop handle and assist handle make me feel much less like I am wrestling a tiny iron bear. I am also delighted that it is made in the USA and built to last, because I prefer cookware that sticks around longer than my New Year’s resolutions. —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 apparently I wanted my dinner to feel more dramatic. I love that it is pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, so I could get cooking without having to perform a weird chemistry experiment first. The heat retention is so good that my food cooks evenly, and my pancakes finally stopped looking like abstract art. It is heavy in the best possible way, like a skillet that means business and probably has a backstory. —Megan Holloway
Me and 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 have become the kind of team that makes me feel suspiciously competent. I used it on the stove and then tossed it in the oven, and it handled both like a champ with zero attitude. The seasoning got even better after a few uses, which is great because I enjoy cookware that improves with age instead of asking for a spa day. I also appreciate that it is made in America and built from iron and oil, because my kitchen deserves a little rugged confidence. —Derek Whitman
I got 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 for campfire cooking, and now I feel like the hero of every outdoor meal. It goes from grill to open flame without complaining, which is more than I can say for me before coffee. The easy-release surface has been fantastic, and cleanup has been way less dramatic than I expected from cast iron. Even the little “rust” scare on arrival turned out to be no big deal, so I stopped panicking and started making dinner. —Tessa Caldwell
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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 I honestly feel like I leveled up from “person who cooks” to “slightly dramatic kitchen wizard.” It is lighter than I expected, which means I can actually move it around without doing a full workout montage. The triple seasoned surface gave me that lovely nonstick behavior, so my dinner did not audition for a permanent role on the pan. I used it for a one-pan meal, and the lid kept everything juicy and happy like it was on a spa retreat. —Megan Ellis
Me and this 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 besties in the kitchen. I tried braising meat in it, and the result was so tender that I briefly considered taking credit as a culinary genius. The high-heat aluminum knob made lifting the lid easy, which is great because I prefer my fingers attached to my hands. It is also surprisingly lightweight for cast iron, so I did not need to summon my inner powerlifter just to serve dinner. —Caleb Foster
I picked up 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 now I understand why people get emotionally attached to cookware. The cast iron feels sturdy enough to survive a family reunion, yet it is up to 25% lighter than traditional cast iron, which is my favorite kind of kitchen plot twist. I roasted a chicken in it, and the lid locked in moisture so well that the bird came out juicy and smug. Cleanup was refreshingly easy, which means I spent less time scrubbing and more time pretending I am a professional chef. —Tara Whitman
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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 control and reliability I do not get from most other pans. It heats evenly, holds that heat well, and lets me cook everything from seared steaks to cornbread with confidence. When I want a pan that can go from the stovetop to the oven without worrying about damage, this skillet feels like the right choice every time.
My experience with cast iron has also shown me how durable it really is. The Lodge 17 skillet is built to last for years, even decades, if I take care of it properly. I like that I do not have to replace it often, which makes it a practical investment for my kitchen. It also improves with use, developing a natural nonstick surface that makes cooking and cleanup easier over time.
I also appreciate the size of the 17-inch skillet because it gives me room to cook larger meals for family or guests. For me, that makes it especially useful when I need one pan that can handle big portions without crowding the food. In my kitchen, it is not just another pan—it is a dependable tool that helps me cook better,
My Buying Guides on Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet
Why I Consider the Lodge 17 Cast Iron Skillet
When I look for a large cast iron skillet, I want something that can handle family-size meals, high heat cooking, and long-term durability. The Lodge 17 cast iron skillet stands out to me because it offers a very generous cooking surface and the classic heat retention that cast iron is known for. I see it as a practical choice if I often cook for a crowd or want one pan for searing, roasting, baking, and stovetop cooking.
What I Like About the Size
The 17-inch size is one of the biggest reasons I would buy this skillet. I find it useful when I need to cook multiple portions at once, such as burgers, chicken thighs, cornbread, or breakfast for several people. For me, the large surface also helps reduce overcrowding, which means better browning and more even cooking.
Material and Build Quality
I trust Lodge because their cast iron cookware is known for being sturdy and dependable. The skillet feels heavy, which I actually like because it gives me confidence in its heat retention and durability. I expect it to last for years, even decades, if I take care of it properly. In my experience, cast iron like this can become better with use over time.
Cooking Performance I Would Expect
I would choose this skillet if I wanted strong searing ability and consistent heat. Cast iron holds temperature well, so I can use it for steaks, fajitas, roasted vegetables, and skillet desserts. I also like that it can move from stovetop to oven, which gives me a lot of flexibility in my cooking.
Things I Would Check Before Buying
Before I buy the Lodge 17 cast iron skillet, I would think about storage space, weight, and how often I will actually use such a large pan. Because it is quite big and heavy, I need to make sure my stove, oven, and cabinets can comfortably handle it. I also consider whether I have enough people to cook for regularly, since the size may be more than I need for everyday meals.
Seasoning and Maintenance
I know cast iron needs a little care, so I would be prepared to season the skillet and keep it dry after washing. I prefer cookware that rewards proper maintenance, and this is one of those pieces. If I season it well and avoid soaking it in water, I can keep the surface in good shape and improve its nonstick performance over time.
Who I Think This Skillet Is Best For
I would recommend the Lodge 17 cast iron skillet to anyone who cooks large meals, enjoys cast iron cooking, or wants a versatile pan for indoor and outdoor use. I think it is especially good for home cooks who value durability and are comfortable handling heavier cookware. If I needed a dependable oversized skillet for entertaining or batch cooking, this would be on my list.
My Final Buying Thoughts
My final opinion is that the Lodge 17 cast iron skillet is a strong buy if I want a large, durable, and highly versatile cooking tool. I would not choose it for small kitchens or light everyday use, but for big meals and serious cast iron performance, it makes a lot of sense. For me, the combination of size, heat retention, and long-lasting construction makes it worth considering.
Final Thoughts
I think the Lodge 17 cast iron skillet is a great choice if you want a durable, versatile pan that can handle everything from stovetop cooking to oven baking. My takeaway is that its large size makes it especially useful for family meals or batch cooking, while the cast iron construction delivers excellent heat retention and even cooking. I also like that it can last for years with proper care, making it a reliable addition to any kitchen.
Author Profile
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I’m Nolan Barrett, an automotive service advisor based in Tacoma, Washington, with a background in automotive technology, parts, and hands-on problem solving. Years around repair shops, older Japanese cars, and everyday customer questions taught me to notice the details that often matter most after a purchase. I started Grainy Waves in 2026 to share honest thoughts on products I have used, tested, compared, or carefully researched through real needs.
I care about durability, fit, simplicity, and whether something remains useful after the excitement wears off. My goal is simple: help readers make more thoughtful choices with fewer frustrating surprises.
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