The Lodge Cast Iron 5-Piece Set offers pre-seasoned, durable cookware ideal for various cooking methods including stovetop, oven, grill, and campfire use. The set includes a Dutch oven, two skillets, a griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces. Reviewers noted the self-basting spikes on the lid as a useful feature, though the heavy pieces make handling and storage challenging. The set is praised for its versatility and classic design, though the lack of a lid for the small skillet is seen as a limitation.
Full review
Classic Design and Practical Features
The Lodge Cast Iron 5-Piece Set maintains a timeless aesthetic that harks back to traditional American cooking, with no modern frills or gimmicks. The set includes a 10.25-inch Dutch oven, a 10.25-inch skillet, an 8-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces. The Dutch oven lid, which also serves as a cover for the large skillet and griddle, features spikes on its underside that collect liquid and drip it back onto food, providing a self-basting effect during braising. This design element was particularly praised by The Spruce Eats reviewer, who noted it 'collects liquid and drip it down onto the food, basting it while it cooks.' The pieces are constructed entirely from cast iron, with long handles on some pans and loop handles on others, allowing for hanging storage. The handles are designed to get hot during cooking, which is standard for cast iron, though the set does include handle covers for purchase.
The handles feature a hole at the end that allows for hanging, and the pieces can be stacked for compact storage, though the weight of the pans makes carrying more than two at a time challenging. The 10.25-inch skillet and Dutch oven both feature pouring spouts, though the weight of the pans makes two-handed pouring necessary. The griddle's low sides make it ideal for foods that need to be lifted with a spatula, and it works well for pizza, bread baking, and small batch cooking. The set includes a lid that fits the Dutch oven, large skillet, and griddle, providing versatility for different cooking tasks. The griddle can also be used as an emergency lid for the Dutch oven or frying pan, though it's not a perfect fit.
The set's classic design and practical features make it appealing to both novice and experienced cooks. The pre-seasoned finish allows immediate use, eliminating the need for seasoning, which was appreciated by The Spruce Eats reviewer who noted that 'pre-seasoning—and the fact that it ensures the pans won’t rust in shipping.' The set is suitable for use on the stovetop, in the oven, under the broiler, on an outdoor grill, and even on a campfire, though caution is advised when using on grills that reach high temperatures to prevent burning off the seasoning.
Performance and Versatility
The Lodge 5-piece set delivers on its promise of versatility across a wide range of cooking tasks. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that they used the set for braised chicken, seared steaks, baked goods, and eggs, and found that the pans performed well in all these applications. The 10.25-inch Dutch oven was particularly praised for its ability to handle soup, Dutch oven bread, and baked beans, as well as boiling potatoes. The larger skillet was great for braising chicken thighs and searing steaks, while the 8-inch skillet was useful for small quantities of sauces, eggs, and baked goods. The griddle was noted for its suitability for pizza, bread baking, and small batch cooking, with the low sides making it easy to lift foods with a spatula.
Bon Appétit's Wilder Davies highlighted the durability and performance of Lodge cast iron, noting that it 'gets better with age' and that 'the more you use your cast iron, the better the results.' The set's pre-seasoned finish allows for immediate use, and the pans are suitable for all cooking methods including stovetop, oven, broiler, grill, and campfire use. The reviewer noted that the pans are 'virtually indestructible' and can handle metal utensils, unlike nonstick coatings that degrade over time. The set's performance was also noted for its ability to sear strip steaks, London broil, and chicken thighs with a crispy, burnished exterior. The pans' heat retention and even heat distribution were also praised, with the reviewer noting that 'the same can’t be said for that Instagram-famous nonstick pan (you know the one).'
Food & Wine's Jacqueline Weiss noted that the Lodge 4-piece set (which includes similar pieces) is a budget-friendly way to start using more cast iron cookware. The set's versatility was highlighted, with the reviewer noting that it can be used for pancakes on the griddle, soup in the Dutch oven, and steaks in the skillet, all without breaking the bank. The set's pre-seasoned finish allows for immediate use, and the pans are suitable for campfire cooking, enabling users to enjoy delicious meals on adventures. The reviewer also noted that the set is heavy, with the larger pieces being particularly cumbersome, but that this is typical for cast iron cookware.
Build Quality and Material
The Lodge Cast Iron 5-Piece Set is constructed entirely from cast iron, which provides durability and heat retention that has made cast iron a kitchen staple for generations. The pre-seasoned finish allows for immediate use, eliminating the need for seasoning, which was appreciated by The Spruce Eats reviewer who noted that 'pre-seasoning—and the fact that it ensures the pans won’t rust in shipping.' The pans are made in the USA, which adds to their appeal for consumers who prefer domestic products. The set includes a 10.25-inch Dutch oven, a 10.25-inch skillet, an 8-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces. The pieces are heavy, with the Dutch oven weighing approximately 5 pounds, which is typical for cast iron cookware.
The build quality of the Lodge set was noted for its durability and ability to withstand various cooking environments. The pans are suitable for use on the stovetop, in the oven, under the broiler, on an outdoor grill, and even on a campfire, though caution is advised when using on grills that reach high temperatures to prevent burning off the seasoning. The reviewer from The Spruce Eats noted that 'since cast iron is so durable, these can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, under the broiler, on an outdoor grill, and even on a campfire.' The set's pre-seasoned finish was also noted as a key feature, with the reviewer stating that 'we appreciated that pre-seasoning—and the fact that it ensures the pans won’t rust in shipping.'
Bon Appétit's Wilder Davies noted that the Lodge cast iron pans are 'virtually indestructible' and can handle metal utensils, unlike nonstick coatings that degrade over time. The reviewer also noted that 'the more you use your cast iron, the better the results' and that 'cast iron cooking is an absolute joy, and every kitchen tool kit should include some cast iron alongside their stainless steel, carbon steel, and enameled Dutch ovens.' The set's construction was also noted for its ability to handle high heat, with the reviewer stating that 'at a high heat, they do an incredible job searing strip steaks, London broil, and chicken thighs, giving you a crispy, burnished exterior.'
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the Lodge 5-piece set for its pre-seasoned finish, which allows immediate use without the need for additional seasoning. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that 'pre-seasoning—and the fact that it ensures the pans won’t rust in shipping' was a key feature. The set's versatility was also highlighted, with the reviewer noting that they used the pans for braised chicken, seared steaks, baked goods, and eggs. The 10.25-inch Dutch oven was particularly praised for its ability to handle soup, Dutch oven bread, and baked beans, while the larger skillet was great for braising chicken thighs and searing steaks. The 8-inch skillet was useful for small quantities of sauces, eggs, and baked goods.
Bon Appétit's Wilder Davies noted that the Lodge set is 'dependable, reliable, and virtually indestructible,' and that 'the more you use your cast iron, the better the results.' The reviewer also highlighted the set's ability to sear strip steaks, London broil, and chicken thighs with a crispy, burnished exterior. The set's heat retention and even heat distribution were also praised, with the reviewer noting that 'the same can’t be said for that Instagram-famous nonstick pan (you know the one).' The set's suitability for all cooking methods including stovetop, oven, broiler, grill, and campfire use was also noted as a key advantage.
Food & Wine's Jacqueline Weiss noted that the Lodge 4-piece set (which includes similar pieces) is a budget-friendly way to start using more cast iron cookware. The reviewer noted that the set's pre-seasoned finish allows for immediate use, and that the pans are suitable for campfire cooking, enabling users to enjoy delicious meals on adventures. The set's versatility was also highlighted, with the reviewer noting that it can be used for pancakes on the griddle, soup in the Dutch oven, and steaks in the skillet, all without breaking the bank. The reviewer also noted that the set is heavy, with the larger pieces being particularly cumbersome, but that this is typical for cast iron cookware.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Lodge 5-piece set has several drawbacks that reviewers have noted. The primary complaint is the weight of the pans, which can make them difficult to handle, especially for those with limited strength or mobility. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that 'the longer handles look short compared to what’s found on standard cookware, but it makes sense. Because of the weight of the pots, we had to grip them close to the body of the pot when we lifted them, so a longer handle wouldn’t be useful and would make storage less convenient.' The reviewer also noted that 'once we stacked the griddle, frying pan, and Dutch oven with lid, we gave a little grunt and decided that two items were plenty to carry at once.'
Another issue noted by reviewers is the lack of a lid for the small skillet, which limits its versatility. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that 'the 8-inch skillet had pouring spouts, but we have to note that pouring was often a two-handed operation because of the weight of the pans along with the food.' The set also requires special care, as noted by The Spruce Eats reviewer who stated that 'Needs special care' and that 'the pans also season themselves when cooking with oil or butter or when the foods are fatty (like bacon).' The reviewer also noted that 'the only caveat for using cast iron on a grill is that many grills can achieve high temperatures, so if the pan is left preheating too long, it’s possible to burn off the seasoning.'
Food & Wine's reviewer also noted that the set is heavy, with the larger pieces being particularly cumbersome. The reviewer noted that 'the larger pieces in particular, like the Dutch oven, can be difficult to lift when full and aren't the most nimble.' The reviewer also noted that 'the set is heavy' and that 'the larger pieces are heavy and cumbersome.' While this is typical for cast iron cookware, it can be a drawback for those who prefer lighter, more maneuverable pieces.
Who It's Best For
The Lodge 5-piece set is ideal for home cooks who are looking for a reliable, versatile, and affordable cast iron cookware set. It's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy cooking with cast iron and want to start with a quality set that includes essential pieces. The pre-seasoned finish makes it immediately usable, which is a significant advantage for new users. The set's durability and ability to handle all cooking methods make it a good choice for those who cook frequently and want a long-lasting investment. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that 'we spent some time seasoning the pans, we scrubbed them clean after each use, and we used them for just about all of our cooking—and our baking, too.'
The set is also well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor cooking, as it's suitable for use on campfires and outdoor grills. The reviewer from Food & Wine noted that 'the set is suitable for campfire cooking, enabling you to enjoy delicious meals on your adventures.' The set's versatility also makes it a good choice for those who want to use it for a variety of cooking tasks, from braising and searing to baking and grilling. The reviewer from Bon Appétit noted that 'the set is suitable for all cooking methods including stovetop, oven, broiler, grill, and campfire use.'
However, the set may not be ideal for those who prefer lighter, more maneuverable cookware or who have limited storage space. The weight of the pans can make them difficult to handle, and the set's bulkiness can make storage challenging. The reviewer from The Spruce Eats noted that 'we found that we could stack the cookware for more compact storage, but we had to consider the weight.' The set is also not ideal for those who are new to cast iron and are not prepared to invest time in proper care and maintenance. The reviewer from The Spruce Eats noted that 'the pans also season themselves when cooking with oil or butter or when the foods are fatty (like bacon),' but also noted that 'Needs special care.'
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to other cast iron sets, the Lodge 5-piece set holds its own in terms of value and versatility. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that 'the set includes a 10.25-inch Dutch oven, a 10.25-inch skillet, an 8-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces,' which provides a good range of cooking options. The set's pre-seasoned finish was noted as a key advantage, with the reviewer stating that 'we appreciated that pre-seasoning—and the fact that it ensures the pans won’t rust in shipping.'
Bon Appétit's Wilder Davies compared the Lodge set to other high-end cast iron pans, noting that while the Lodge is affordable and reliable, it doesn't quite match the performance of premium options like the Lancaster No. 8 skillet. The reviewer noted that 'the Lancaster is the lightest cast-iron pan we’ve tested, weighing in at 4 pounds for the No. 8 (10"-diameter) pan,' and that 'the Lancaster is the lightest cast-iron pan we’ve tested, weighing in at 4 pounds for the No. 8 (10"-diameter) pan.' However, the reviewer also noted that 'the Lodge 10.25-Inch skillet below as an excellent value and everyday pan,' suggesting that the Lodge set is a solid choice for those who want a good value without the premium price tag.
Food & Wine's Jacqueline Weiss noted that while the Lodge set is a budget-friendly option, it's not the only choice for those looking for cast iron cookware. The reviewer noted that 'the Lancaster No. 8 Cast Iron Skillet is our favorite pan for its innovative, lightweight yet effective design,' and that 'the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron 5-Piece Cookware Set is our pick for its easy care, unrivaled durability, and beautiful color options.' However, the reviewer also noted that 'the Lodge 4-piece set includes our test kitchen-approved 10.25-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch round griddle, a 5-quart Dutch oven, and an accompanying lid (which also fits on the skillet) to serve just about every purpose in the kitchen.'
Value at This Price
The Lodge 5-piece set offers solid value for its price point, especially considering that it's pre-seasoned and ready to use right out of the box. The Spruce Eats reviewer noted that 'the set includes a 10.25-inch Dutch oven, a 10.25-inch skillet, an 8-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces,' which provides a good range of cooking options. The reviewer also noted that 'we spent some time seasoning the pans, we scrubbed them clean after each use, and we used them for just about all of our cooking—and our baking, too.' The set's pre-seasoned finish was noted as a key advantage, with the reviewer stating that 'we appreciated that pre-seasoning—and the fact that it ensures the pans won’t rust in shipping.'
Food & Wine's Jacqueline Weiss noted that 'the Lodge 4-piece set includes our test kitchen-approved 10.25-inch skillet, a 10.5-inch round griddle, a 5-quart Dutch oven, and an accompanying lid (which also fits on the skillet) to serve just about every purpose in the kitchen.' The reviewer also noted that 'the set is a budget-friendly way to start using more cast iron cookware pieces,' and that 'Prepare pancakes for breakfast on the griddle, soup for lunch in the Dutch oven, and steaks for dinner in the classic skillet, all without breaking the bank.' The set's price point was noted as a key advantage, with the reviewer stating that 'the Lodge 4-piece set is a budget-friendly way to start using more cast iron cookware pieces.'
Bon Appétit's Wilder Davies noted that while the Lodge set is affordable, it doesn't quite match the performance of premium options like the Lancaster No. 8 skillet. The reviewer noted that 'the Lancaster is the lightest cast-iron pan we’ve tested, weighing in at 4 pounds for the No. 8 (10"-diameter) pan,' and that 'the Lancaster is the lightest cast-iron pan we’ve tested, weighing in at 4 pounds for the No. 8 (10"-diameter) pan.' However, the reviewer also noted that 'the Lodge 10.25-Inch skillet below as an excellent value and everyday pan,' suggesting that the Lodge set is a solid choice for those who want a good value without the premium price tag. The set's value was also noted for its durability and versatility, with the reviewer stating that 'the set is suitable for all cooking methods including stovetop, oven, broiler, grill, and campfire use.'
Strengths
- +Pre-seasoned for immediate use with no additional seasoning required
- +Durable cast iron construction suitable for stovetop, oven, grill, and campfire cooking
- +Includes versatile pieces: 10.25-inch Dutch oven, 10.25-inch skillet, 8-inch skillet, 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces
- +Spikes on underside of lid provide self-basting feature during cooking
Watch-outs
- −Pieces are heavy, making them difficult to handle and store
- −No lid included for the small skillet
How it compares
Unlike the Victoria Cast Iron Skillet, which has a smoother surface but requires more maintenance, the Lodge 5-piece set offers convenience with its pre-seasoned pieces and includes a versatile griddle. However, it lacks a lid for the small skillet, a shortcoming not found in the Stargazer skillet which provides a more complete set of pieces.
Who this is for
At a glance: Beginners seeking a complete pre-seasoned set.
Why you’d buy the Lodge Cast Iron Set - 5-Piece Set - Pre-Seasoned Kitchen Set - Skillets, Griddle
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use with no additional seasoning required.
- Durable cast iron construction suitable for stovetop, oven, grill, and campfire cooking.
- Includes versatile pieces: 10.25-inch Dutch oven, 10.25-inch skillet, 8-inch skillet, 10.5-inch griddle, and a lid that fits three pieces.
Why you’d skip it
- Pieces are heavy, making them difficult to handle and store.
- No lid included for the small skillet.
Rating sources
“A great set for new cooks and all lovers of cast iron cookware.”
“There is a diehard fanbase, loyal to the affordable, USA–made Lodge cast-iron pan, that will not hear of any other suggestions.”
“This set is a budget-friendly way to start using more cast iron cookware pieces.”
“This set has every piece you need to start your cast iron cooking adventure (and it also makes a great gift!).”
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
