The $12.99 ALDI Pan I Use for Everything Is Back for a Limited Time

This ALDI pan is far less expensive than brands like Le Creuset, but still delivers on performance. The material and shape make it great for searing, frying, and so much more.

Simply Recipes / Getty Images

There’s no denying that a cast iron skillet is a must-have in every kitchen. When I started putting together my own cookware collection, finding a reliable cast iron piece was at the top of my list. I was initially attracted to the natural rustic charm of cast iron, but I quickly educated myself on the long list of benefits as I started doing my research.

Not only does a cast iron skillet make me feel like I’m cooking for a group of hard-working ranch hands, but it also offers superior heat retention, a naturally nonstick surface, lifelong durability, and extreme versatility. Given that it’s not as difficult to clean and maintain as you may think, cast iron skillets can be an affordable way to make your food taste better with each and every use.

Angled view of the Aldi cast iron skillet on a green and orange speckled background — Simply Recipes / Aldi

Why I Love ALDI’s Crofton Cast Iron Deep Skillet

Whenever I’m asked to suggest a good beginner cast iron skillet, I point to Crofton’s 10-inch Cast Iron Deep Skillet. Popular brands like Lodge and Le Creuset sell similar products for upwards of $36 and $225, respectively, while a quick trip to ALDI can earn you one for only $12.99. And now that I’ve cooked multiple meals with my Crofton Deep Cast Iron Roaster, I’m officially a big fan of the brand.

Just like its more expensive counterparts, the Crofton skillet is oven-safe up to 500°F and boasts incredible heat retention and distribution. I especially love the pan's high sides, as they allow you to cook larger quantities of food with less splatter. The skillet has a 10.25-inch diameter, which is more than enough to handle a wide variety of meals. The skillet comes pre-seasoned with a vegetable oil finish, so there’s no need to season it yourself.

How I Use My Crofton Cast Iron Deep Skillet

The best part about this skillet is its high sides. Thanks to this pan’s height, stews, braises, and deep frying can all be done using the same pan, and it still functions well at tasks you'd normally grab a cast iron skillet for. For example, when making a ribeye steak dinner, you can simply transfer the pan from the oven to the stovetop to accomplish the perfect reverse sear.

This skillet is compatible with all cooktops, including induction and halogen, which adds to its versatility. To say it louder for those in the back, I truly use this pan for everything! Whether it's eggs and bacon in the morning, pan-seared chicken for lunch, or birria for dinner, this skillet delivers and then some. Keep an eye out for it during your next trip to ALDI, as it generally sells out fast whenever it returns to shelves.

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