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Every kitchen should have (at least) one!

If Ree Drummond could only take one pan with her to a desert island, it would have to be her best cast-iron skillet. Cowboys and pioneers have been using cast iron since the early days of American history, so it’s no surprise that these durable pans can withstand the test of time. "Cast-iron used to be old fashioned, but it's making a comeback," Ree says. "It's nice to have something that's forever."

They can be used for all kinds of cooking—on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even over an open flame. And once you know how to season a cast iron skillet, your pan will last forever. Read on for the best cast iron skillets—a good one is a must-have for any cook. Just try Ree's Skillet Cornbread recipe and you'll understand why!

A cast-iron skillet is the ultimate all-in-one pan. It's ovenproof so you can use it for cornbread or biscuits, naturally nonstick for scrambling eggs or flipping pancakes, and it gets screaming hot for searing meats. The best part is that you can take it straight from the kitchen to the table: Just look at this weeknight Skillet Lasagna recipe and one-pan Beef Taco Skillet recipe served right in the pan! Cast iron skillets come in all shapes and sizes, like mini pans (perfect for individual desserts), deeper skillets (for frying chicken) and even a cast iron skillet shaped like Ree’s home state, Oklahoma. There are so many options out there—it can be tricky to figure out what to buy. Take a look at the best cast iron skillets ahead and find the one that's right for you!

This classic 12-inch skillet will be your go-to pan. It’s pre-seasoned, so you can get right to cooking your favorite dishes, like Skillet Dinner Rolls. Bonus: It has pour spouts on both sides, plus a Pioneer Woman butterfly design on the handle.

This is a classic 10-inch skillet from Lodge—a brand that has been around since the late 1800s. All of Lodge’s products are made in the USA, in a small town just off the Tennessee River. This is a great all-purpose pan—and it gets stellar reviews.

If you're looking to build your collection, this set of three will do just that: It includes a 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch skillet. The trio makes a great holiday or bridal shower gift.

This 12-inch skillet has a fun pop of color, with a bright orange handle on the lid and a heat-resistant handle cover in the same color. It's large enough for almost any recipe.

Add a hint of blue to your kitchen with this enameled cast iron skillet. This one is a good all-purpose size (10 inches), but you can also get an 8-inch or 12-inch version. 

What’s better than one cast-iron skillet? Two, of course! This set comes with a deep skillet (perfect for frying) plus a lid that doubles as a shallow skillet. It’s a trusted set that will get you through any cooking situation—outdoor campfires and weeknight meals alike! 

Believe it or not, this isn’t the smallest skillet that Lodge makes (they have a 3.5-inch skillet that’s more of a novelty item). This one is 6.5 inches and it's perfect for baking Skillet Brownies, scrambling a couple of eggs, or searing a burger patty. The howling wolf design on the back celebrates America’s wildlife and makes for a beautiful showpiece.

It’s pricier than some of the other options, but this octagonal-shaped pan stands out from the crowd. The unique shape isn't just for looks, though—it actually allows you to pour from different angles with more control. Another design element: The handle is made of coiled stainless steel, so it cools down faster, making it easier to hold.

Ree worked with American Skillet Company to create this Oklahoma-shaped pan. It’s perfect for making cornbread or serving party dips—and it makes a cute gift for any The Pioneer Woman fan!

If you're looking for something on the smaller side for camping trips, this sturdy 8-inch skillet is a good pick. Plus, if you’re in need of inspiration, this Black-owned company has some pretty delicious recipes inspired by African and Caribbean cuisines.  

This pan is super versatile—and it's super affordable, too. It may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the other options, but it’s a solid, budget-friendly find that's perfect for everyday use.

This pan has an enameled interior that resists cracking or chipping. The light color also makes it easier to judge how well your food is cooking!