This Iconic Lodge Skillet Has More Than 76,000 5-Star Amazon Reviews — and It’s Just $18 Right Now

What if we told you that you can snag an iconic cookware piece ranked number one on Amazon for less than $18? It’s true! The 10.25-inch Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is currently $17.90 (normally $26.68), and it’s ready to ship right now. Cast iron is one of the best investment pieces you can buy for any level of cook, so whether you’re shopping for a kitchen novice or borderline pro, this skillet is the way to go

If you don’t believe the over 70,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, remember that many Kitchn editors swear by a Lodge cast iron skillet because it’s durable and versatile. “It’s the do-everything, default pan that makes everything you cook in it taste just a little bit better, thanks to the heat and the sear you get,” says Editor-in-Chief Faith. Cast iron is the go-to for a perfect steak because it gets super hot and retains heat better than pretty much any other cookware material. It also works with any type of cooking range and loves the oven, so you can whip up a frittata or even dessert in the very same pan.

Novices often shy away from cast iron for fear that preparing and caring for the pan is difficult, but as Food Editor Meghan puts it, “most of that lore is completely bull.” Lodge skillets come pre-seasoned, which is skillet-speak for “unwrap this gift and use it immediately.” And with just a little attention to its care and storage, it will last for years. The 10.25-inch size is perfect to gift to anyone, since a beginner would find the smaller size easier to handle and chances are a kitchen pro already has the iconic 12-inch version. And as Lifestyle Editor Lisa notes, you should probably have both sizes anyway.

Honestly, this is likely the best $18 dollars you’ll spend this month, whether the skillet gets wrapped and sent to mom or right into your own cabinet.

Buy: Lodge 10.25-inch Cast Iron Skillet, $17.90 (normally $26.68)