# Cast Iron vs. Stainless Steel Cookware: What's the Difference & Which Should You Buy? - Made In Both are kitchen essentials, but cast iron and stainless steel excel in different ways. Learn when to use each so you always grab the perfect pan. Cast iron and stainless steel cookware have long been compared, yet many home cooks may not fully appreciate what sets these two kitchen staples apart. While chefs often understand and utilize their unique qualities, the everyday cook might overlook the distinct advantages each one brings to the table. Both pans are known for their durability, versatility, and compatibility with various heat sources, but that’s where the common ground ends. Their differences, from heat response to cooking applications, are what make each a valuable addition to any kitchen. This guide will break down the details of cast iron vs. stainless steel cookware, clearing up any confusion and showing why both are beloved by so many. By the end, you’ll not only recognize which type your kitchen might be missing, but you’ll also feel confident in choosing the right models and using them to their full potential. ## What Is Cast Iron? ```json { "_key": "4b84f56f49cb", "_type": "medium", "ctas": null, "description": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": null, "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.7777777777777777, "height": 1080, "width": 1920 }, "lqip": "data:image/png;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/86d93ba7bc72784d114c39c489d2dfd682e79117-1920x1080.png" } }, "tags": null, "type": "image", "video": null } ``` Cast iron is a durable and safe metal for cooking, made by pouring molten iron alloy into a mold, resulting in thick, dense cookware that distributes and retains heat evenly. Cast iron is highly versatile and can be used on any cooking surface, including ovens and campfires. One of the unique features of cast iron is the seasoning. Over time, a layer of polymerized oil builds up, creating a natural nonstick coating that enhances flavor and protects against rust. Cast iron pans are heavier than most cookware, typically weighing six to nine pounds for a 12” skillet. This extra weight contributes to their longevity, heat retention, and versatility. ```json { "_key": "9ab7cb33b1ce", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant.45288221769807", "badges": [], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "discount": 0, "isAvailable": false, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 0, "price": 199, "status": "comingSoon" }, "handle": { "current": "12-inch" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [ { "_key": "3ac1c7fff0ef", "description": null, "hotspots": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": null, "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1, "height": 1500, "width": 1500 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/35a2e448262b85832cf4b813e100bb4a75526e6a-1500x1500.jpg" } }, "tags": [ "secondary" ], "type": "image", "video": null } ], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": false, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isDiscountEligible": false, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": false, "isSet": false, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": null }, "product": { "ranking": 29, "rating": null, "shopify": { "handle": "cast-iron-fry-pan", "id": 8668720365647, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_8in_Skillet-Hero.jpg?v=1779486192", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 45288221769807, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_12in_Skillet-Hero.jpg?v=1779486219", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "12\"", "option2": null, "option3": null, "title": "12\"" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "cast-iron" }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" }, { "handle": { "current": "cookware" }, "title": "Cookware", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "united-states" }, "title": "United States", "type": "country_of_origin" }, { "handle": { "current": "12-inch" }, "title": "12\"", "type": "size" } ], "title": null } } ``` Ideal for long braises, deep frying, high-heat searing, and even delicate foods like eggs and seafood, cast iron improves with age and use, continually enhancing performance as the seasoning develops. ## What is Stainless Steel? ```json { "_key": "54378631aa27", "_type": "medium", "ctas": null, "description": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "A modern kitchen features various stainless steel pots and pans arranged on a stovetop and a nearby cutting board.", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.8, "height": 1000, "width": 1800 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/7066c77b9618de367fad138bf417bd4fe500b015-1800x1000.jpg" } }, "tags": null, "type": "image", "video": null } ``` Stainless steel cookware is revered for its non-reactive, non-porous surface, meaning it neither absorbs nor releases anything into your food, even when cooking acidic ingredients like tomato sauce, citrus, or wine. Its corrosion resistance comes from a chromium-nickel alloy composition that protects against rust, corrosion, and pitting, making stainless steel cookware a safe and long-lasting choice for any kitchen. Unlike nonstick pans, stainless steel contains no chemical coatings that could leach harmful substances such as PTFE or PFAS. High-quality stainless steel is oven safe, lightweight for easy maneuvering, and durable enough to withstand cleaning without scratching or damage. ```json { "_key": "9cd4a708e1da", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant-44266864202", "badges": [ { "_key": "Best Seller", "logoAsset": null, "title": "Best Seller" } ], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "compare_at_price": 149, "discount": 13, "isAvailable": true, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 19.00999999999999, "price": 129.99, "status": "forSale" }, "handle": { "current": "12-inch" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [ { "_key": "b02335ec2a0a", "description": null, "hotspots": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "stainless frying pan 12 inch lifestyle", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1, "height": 1440, "width": 1440 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/3e7821f8d88b33153c0a6f19728db35e09d95763-1440x1440.jpg" } }, "tags": [ "secondary", "gallery" ], "type": "image", "video": null } ], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": true, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isDiscountEligible": true, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": true, "isSet": false, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": "lifetime" }, "product": { "ranking": 12, "rating": { "rating": 4.9, "rating_count": 7983 }, "shopify": { "handle": "stainless-steel-frying-pan", "id": 11080104522, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Web_Stainless_FryingPan_12in_1x1_Hero.jpg?v=1762197921", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Stainless Clad Frying Pan" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 44266864202, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Web_Stainless_FryingPan_12in_1x1_Hero.jpg?v=1762197921", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "12\"", "option2": "Stainless", "option3": "Standard", "title": "12\" / Stainless / Standard" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "12-inch" }, "title": "12\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "induction-compatible" }, "title": "Induction Compatible", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "oven-safe" }, "title": "Oven Safe", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "dishwasher-safe" }, "title": "Dishwasher Safe", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "pfas-free" }, "title": "Free of PFAS", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "personalized" }, "title": "Personalized", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "stay-cool-handle" }, "title": "Stay Cool Handles", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "third-party-tested" }, "title": "Third-Party Tested", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "italy" }, "title": "Italy", "type": "country_of_origin" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" }, { "handle": { "current": "stainless-clad" }, "title": "Stainless Clad", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "cookware" }, "title": "Cookware", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "best-sellers" }, "title": "Best Sellers", "type": "merchandising" } ], "title": "12\"" } } ``` Because of its even heat distribution and construction, home cooks can prepare a wide variety of foods, from delicate omelets to hard-seared steaks and everything in between. ## Cast Iron vs. Stainless Steel: How They Stack Up Use this table to weigh the most important factors that both home cooks and professional chefs consider when choosing cast iron vs. stainless steel cookware. ```json { "_key": "e95314c8ff63", "_type": "tableSection", "data": { "_type": "tableSection", "config": null, "description": null, "sheetId": "1Tq35SUkOHskPvanG4oOnRkCmCCv0Qd75FR3C5Cpe26s", "title": null } } ``` ```json { "_key": "ef1d4fc2144e", "_type": "medium", "ctas": null, "description": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": null, "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.7777777777777777, "height": 1080, "width": 1920 }, "lqip": "data:image/png;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/cb43e100001c537937d506abeea9f1a5e9b52958-1920x1080.png" } }, "tags": null, "type": "image", "video": null } ``` In summary, cast iron is best for high-heat searing and steady cooking thanks to its superior heat retention. It excels at building deep crusts and maintaining consistent heat, whether you’re pan frying, baking, or braising. It requires a bit more care, but rewards you with durability and performance. Great for everyday use thanks to its responsiveness and versatility. It heats and cools quickly, making it ideal for sautéing, searing, and building pan sauces. It’s low-maintenance, non-reactive, and easy to clean with dish soap or stainless cleaner. When Should You Use Cast Iron? Use cast iron cookware on special weekend dinners when savory, stick-to-your-ribs meals are in demand. Of course, cast iron can be used any day of the week, but it’s the star of the show for Friday southern-fried chicken, Saturday night seared rib-eye steaks, or Sunday beef or chicken roasts. Bake your grandmother's traditional recipe for cornbread or Yorkshire pudding as well. Even bring your cast iron skillet on the family camping trip to use over the open fire to make baked beans or freshly caught fish. ### Cast Iron is Your Pick if You: - Want strong heat retention for both high-heat searing and steady cooking (braising, roasting, baking). - Cook steaks and chops that need a sustained, screaming-hot surface. - Love a pan that can go from stovetop to oven to table. - Don’t mind the weight trade-off for better heat stability. - Want something durable enough for campfires and outdoor cooking. ```json { "_key": "b480ff33078a", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant.45316279140431", "badges": [], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "compare_at_price": 624, "discount": 8, "isAvailable": false, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 48, "price": 576, "status": "comingSoon" }, "handle": { "current": "3-piece-set-lids" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": false, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isDiscountEligible": false, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": false, "isSet": false, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": null }, "product": { "ranking": 29, "rating": null, "shopify": { "handle": "cast-iron-fry-pan", "id": 8668720365647, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_8in_Skillet-Hero.jpg?v=1779486192", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 45316279140431, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_3p_Skillet_Set-wLid.jpg?v=1779913978", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "3-Piece Set", "option2": "Lid", "option3": null, "title": "3-Piece Set / Lid" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "cast-iron" }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" }, { "handle": { "current": "sets" }, "title": "Sets", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "cookware" }, "title": "Cookware", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "8-inch" }, "title": "8\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "10-inch" }, "title": "10\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "12-inch" }, "title": "12\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "united-states" }, "title": "United States", "type": "country_of_origin" } ], "title": null } } ``` ## When Should You Use Stainless Steel? During busy weekdays when your family needs a quick and satisfying meal, stainless steel pans work great for any home cook. Enjoy healthy, flavorful dishes in about 20 minutes or less. Thanks to stainless steel’s ability to heat rapidly and respond accurately to temperature changes, you have total control over your cooking. Whip up anything from a speedy vegetable stir-fry to perfectly crispy fish with or without the skin, or master a classic French omelette in a [Stainless Steel Frying Pan](https://madeincookware.com/products/stainless-steel-frying-pan/12-inch). Cleanup is a breeze, and its lighter weight makes it easier to handle than traditional cast iron. Ideal for everyday cooking, stainless steel is perfect for those who love creating great meals without spending hours in the kitchen. ### Stainless Steel is Your Pick if You: - Need speed and responsiveness on weeknights. - Sauté vegetables, cook proteins, or make dishes like crepes and eggs with proper preheating and fat. - Want to move easily from burner to oven with a lighter pan. - Cook in a style inspired by professional kitchens. - Want an everyday pan that’s durable, non-reactive, and doesn’t rely on coatings. ## Our Recommendation: Made In Serious cooks will find that both cast iron and stainless steel complement each other and serve different purposes. But many home cooks just need one to start, and choosing their first can be broken down using the information below. ### If you want Cast Iron → Made In Cast Iron Skillet [Made In's Cast Iron collection](http://madeincookware.com/collections/cast-iron) is engineered differently than the cast iron your grandmother owned. Most competitor cast iron comes straight from the mold and can be rough, porous, and uneven. Made In’s cast iron skillets are machined, buffed, and lathed to a smooth cooking surface, so seasoning builds evenly and releases cleanly from day one. ```json { "_key": "bbb96cd452fe", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant.45316279107663", "badges": [], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "compare_at_price": 477, "discount": 10, "isAvailable": false, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 48, "price": 429, "status": "comingSoon" }, "handle": { "current": "3-piece-set" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": false, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isDiscountEligible": false, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": false, "isSet": false, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": null }, "product": { "ranking": 29, "rating": null, "shopify": { "handle": "cast-iron-fry-pan", "id": 8668720365647, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_8in_Skillet-Hero.jpg?v=1779486192", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 45316279107663, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_3p_Skillet_Set-NoLid.jpg?v=1779913951", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "3-Piece Set", "option2": null, "option3": null, "title": "3-Piece Set" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "cast-iron" }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" }, { "handle": { "current": "sets" }, "title": "Sets", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "cookware" }, "title": "Cookware", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "8-inch" }, "title": "8\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "10-inch" }, "title": "10\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "12-inch" }, "title": "12\"", "type": "size" }, { "handle": { "current": "united-states" }, "title": "United States", "type": "country_of_origin" } ], "title": null } } ``` It also arrives pre-seasoned with organic flaxseed oil, chosen for its high polymerization rate and the rich, golden finish it produces. The bowl-shaped interior follows the arc of a basting spoon, which means no dead corners. The handle is engineered to remove unnecessary weight while keeping the full structural integrity. ### If you want Stainless Steel → Made In Stainless Steel [Made In’s Stainless Steel cookware](https://madeincookware.com/collections/stainless-clad) provides even heating, which allows for uniform browning without hot spots and cooks with precise temperature control for various techniques. The durable construction resists rust, warping, and scratches, and withstands heavy use and high heat. ```json { "_key": "aa3fa39c50de", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant.42759042826319", "badges": [ { "_key": "Best Seller", "logoAsset": null, "title": "Best Seller" } ], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "compare_at_price": 417, "discount": 33, "isAvailable": true, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 137.01, "price": 279.99, "status": "forSale" }, "handle": { "current": "stainless" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [ { "_key": "dfaacf6fafa2", "description": "test", "hotspots": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "A hand pours a sauce from a spoon into a simmering pan on a stovetop, with other pans visible in the background.", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1, "height": 1500, "width": 1500 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/23a3c0d7944db574d26bf4a1bf4d45c5ccaaacdb-1500x1500.jpg" } }, "tags": [ "gallery", "secondary" ], "type": "image", "video": null } ], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": true, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isDiscountEligible": false, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": true, "isSet": true, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": "lifetime" }, "product": { "ranking": 11, "rating": { "rating": 4.9, "rating_count": 7983 }, "shopify": { "handle": "stainless-clad-frying-pan-set", "id": 7735402299471, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Web_Stainless_Set_3p_FryingPan_1x1_Hero_9c32b795-a872-4cde-bfe8-c3ffbac3aa04.jpg?v=1762270194", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Stainless Clad Frying Pan Set" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 42759042826319, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 3000, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/3pc_stainless_fry_-_stainless_handle.jpg?v=1778781484", "width": 3000 }, "option1": "3-Piece Set", "option2": "Stainless", "option3": null, "title": "3-Piece Set / Stainless" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "induction-compatible" }, "title": "Induction Compatible", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "oven-safe" }, "title": "Oven Safe", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "dishwasher-safe" }, "title": "Dishwasher Safe", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "pfas-free" }, "title": "Free of PFAS", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "stay-cool-handle" }, "title": "Stay Cool Handles", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "third-party-tested" }, "title": "Third-Party Tested", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "united-states" }, "title": "United States", "type": "country_of_origin" }, { "handle": { "current": "italy" }, "title": "Italy", "type": "country_of_origin" }, { "handle": { "current": "stainless-clad" }, "title": "Stainless Clad", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "sets" }, "title": "Sets", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" } ], "title": null } } ``` All Made In stainless steel models feature three or more bonded layers, often with aluminum cores, for superior heat distribution and added strength. Thoughtful handle design separates Made In from competitors and ensures safety, while balanced weight makes the pans comfortable to maneuver. ## The Bottom Line For a truly well-rounded kitchen, having both cast iron and stainless steel pans will give more options and depth of flavor. Being able to choose the right pan for each dish allows you to bring out the very best in your meals and makes cooking feel both satisfying and intentional. Made In’s cast iron is best for high-heat searing and steady cooking, thanks to its excellent heat retention, which helps build deep browning and consistent results. On busy weeknights, Made In’s stainless steel offers quick responsiveness and precise temperature control, making it easy to cook with speed and accuracy. Both are built for everyday use, giving cooks the confidence to handle anything from simple meals to more refined dishes. ```json { "_key": "56a917a4196a", "_type": "cta", "title": "Shop Cast Iron", "url": "http://madeincookware.com/collections/cast-iron" } ``` ```json { "_key": "52ba5a87e0d0", "_type": "cta", "title": "Shop Stainless Steel", "url": "https://madeincookware.com/collections/stainless-clad" } ``` --- URL: https://madeincookware.com/blogs/cast-iron-or-stainless-steel