Crispy, golden-brown dishes that are sure to impress – there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked cast iron skillet recipe. Whether you’re cooking up a hearty breakfast, a satisfying dinner, or a decadent dessert, the humble cast iron skillet is always up to the task. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious and easy-to-make cast iron skillet recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic comfort foods like Skillet-Baked Mac and Cheese and Cast Iron Ribeye with Rosemary Butter, to savory meals like Garlic Butter Steak with Herb Sauce and Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Chicken, we’ve got you covered. And don’t even get us started on the sweet treats – Skillet Apple Crisp with Cinnamon and Cast Iron Peach Cobbler are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So grab your cast iron skillet and let’s get cooking!
Classic Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
A warm, crumbly, and irresistibly flavorful cornbread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals. This recipe yields a perfectly cooked cornbread with a crispy crust and a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 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 and melted butter. Add honey or sugar if desired.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a preheated cast iron skillet (9-inch diameter).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak with Herb Sauce
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and aromatic Garlic Butter Steak with Herb Sauce recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This dish combines the richness of garlic butter with the brightness of fresh herbs, making it a surefire hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 steak fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, parsley, and thyme.
3. Season steak fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
7. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet-Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this skillet-baked twist, featuring a crispy breadcrumb topping and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Top with panko breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.
8. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Deep-Dish Pizza
Experience the comfort of a hearty pizza with our easy-to-make Cast Iron Deep-Dish Pizza recipe. This classic dish is perfect for family gatherings, game days, or simply satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned.
3. In a separate bowl, combine tomato puree, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked beef mixture and stir well.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Press into the skillet.
5. Spread the meat sauce over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Beat the egg and brush the crust with it.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza.
9. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Chicken
Brighten up your dinner plate with this citrusy twist on classic chicken. Pan-searing brings out the best flavors of juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and pungent garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and brush with the garlic-lemon mixture.
4. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Skillet Apple Crisp with Cinnamon
Warm up with this easy-to-make skillet apple crisp that combines tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick dessert.
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 nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats and melted butter until well combined.
4. Top the apple mixture with the oat topping, spreading evenly to cover.
5. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Cast Iron Seared Salmon with Dill
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist salmon dish, seared to perfection in a cast iron skillet and infused with the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, swirling to combine.
4. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped dill on top of each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Dutch Baby Pancake with Berries
A sweet and fluffy pancake filled with a burst of fresh berry flavor, perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk and melted butter, whisking until smooth.
3. Pour batter into a 10-inch oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan coated with cooking spray.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until pancake puffs up and edges are golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and top with mixed berries. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Skillet-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts by roasting them in a hot skillet with some aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side up. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Roast the Brussels sprouts for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cast Iron Ribeye with Rosemary Butter
Elevate your steak game with this classic combination of tender ribeye and fragrant rosemary butter, perfectly cooked to a rich, caramelized crust in a trusty cast iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pound ribeye steak
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the ribeye with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl it around until melted and foamy.
4. Sear the ribeye for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. While the steak cooks, mix the remaining butter with chopped rosemary.
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the aromatic rosemary butter spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this gooey and delicious Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe! Perfect for a crowd or a family treat, this skillet cookie is easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared skillet and smooth out.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly gooey.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pan Cast Iron Frittata
One-Pan Cast Iron Frittata Recipe
A flavorful and versatile breakfast or brunch option, this one-pan cast iron frittata is perfect for a crowd. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are almost set and the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of garlic and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels.
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated skillet and sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
6. Add the lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
7. Serve the seared scallops with the garlic lemon sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cast Iron Peach Cobbler
Get ready to savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this simple yet indulgent peach cobbler recipe, perfectly suited for warm-weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced peaches (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.
3. Pour the melted butter over the peach mixture and stir gently.
4. Add beaten egg and vanilla extract; mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the peach mixture to a preheated cast iron skillet or 9-inch square baking dish.
6. Top with biscuit or cobbler topping, spreading evenly to cover the fruit.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles slightly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skillet Nachos with Spicy Beef
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips for a snack that’s sure to please. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, you’ll be enjoying these nachos in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, jalapeño, garlic, chili powder, and cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon beef mixture over chips, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Fried Potatoes with Onions
A simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Thinly sliced potatoes and onions are pan-fried to a crispy golden brown, adding a delicious depth of flavor to any plate.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the potato slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
3. Add the onion slices and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Blueberry Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes infused with the sweetness of fresh blueberries and the richness of a perfectly seasoned cast iron skillet. This recipe yields a dozen pancakes that are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Vegetable oil for greasing the skillet
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Grease the preheated skillet with a small amount of vegetable oil.
7. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter into the skillet.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet-Baked Ziti with Sausage
Get ready for a comforting, one-dish wonder that’s perfect for a cozy night in! This recipe combines the flavors of sausage, tomato sauce, and ziti pasta in a single skillet-baked delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add ziti pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Seared Pork Chops with Apples
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sweet and savory combination of seared pork chops and caramelized apples. This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, boneless
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
5. Add the apple slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the apple-onion mixture over each chop.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this Cast Iron Caramelized Onion Tart, a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a cast iron skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to fit the cast iron skillet.
4. Place the pastry in the skillet, pressing it into the corners.
5. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 crispy cast iron skillet recipes for every occasion! From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak with Herb Sauce and Cast Iron Ribeye with Rosemary Butter, to sweet treats like Skillet Apple Crisp with Cinnamon and Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover one-pan wonders like Skillet-Baked Mac and Cheese and Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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