When it comes to cooking, simplicity is often key. And that’s where the humble cast iron skillet comes in – a versatile tool that can help you whip up a wide range of delicious meals with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, cooking with a cast iron skillet is a great way to get started. Not only do these recipes tend to be quick and easy to prepare, but they also produce incredible results.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple and easy cast iron skillet recipes perfect for beginners. From savory dishes like steak and chicken to sweet treats like cookies and cobbler, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your favorite cast iron skillet and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Herb Steak in Cast Iron Skillet
Garlic Butter Herb Steak in Cast Iron Skillet Recipe
Summary: Elevate your steak game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak or ribeye
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the preheated skillet and let it melt.
4. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme to the skillet.
7. Stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is fragrant.
8. Serve the steak with the garlic butter herb sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful cornbread with a crispy crust, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals or as a standalone snack. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious cast iron skillet cornbread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a preheated cast iron skillet and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields juicy chicken thighs and a rich, caramelized sauce. This one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add garlic, bell peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return chicken thighs to the skillet and pour in chicken broth.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Breakfast Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast dish that’s perfect for a crowd or a cozy morning at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 lb sausage (such as breakfast links or Italian sausage), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to distribute evenly.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Skillet Apple Crisp
This recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a cozy evening dessert or brunch. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously warm and comforting apple crisp cooked in one skillet!
Ingredients:
– 1 large skillet (10-inch)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In the skillet, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until apples are slightly tender.
3. Top the apple mixture with rolled oats and melted butter. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the topping is lightly browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella
Get ready to experience the perfect combination of crispy crust and gooey cheese! This recipe yields a delicious, one-of-a-kind pizza that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped basil leaves
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Place the rolled-out dough in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Spread the tomato sauce over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
7. Sprinkle with basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your Cast Iron Skillet Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella!
Quick Skillet Shrimp Scampi
Quick Skillet Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Summary: This speedy shrimp scampi recipe is a flavorful and indulgent treat that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter and parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and lemon juice, add them to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and satisfying cast iron skillet macaroni and cheese recipe, perfect for a cozy evening in or a family gathering.
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
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until coated.
9. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Skillet Roasted Vegetables
Easy Skillet Roasted Vegetables
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to quickly and effortlessly roast a colorful medley of vegetables in just one skillet. This method is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a stress-free Sunday evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: any other vegetables of your choice (e.g., broccoli, carrots, mushrooms)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, and onion; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie
Elevate your cookie game with this unique recipe that bakes to perfection in a cast iron skillet. The result is a crispy, chewy, and utterly delicious treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Pour batter into a 10-inch cast iron skillet coated with cooking spray.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skillet Lemon Garlic Salmon
A flavorful and healthy salmon recipe that’s ready in under 20 minutes! This skillet dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked halfway through.
5. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle with thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
This classic recipe gets a modern twist by using a cast iron skillet to create a crispy, caramelized crust on top of the traditional shepherd’s pie. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown ground beef in the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Skillet Beef Stroganoff
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick and easy to make, this Simple Skillet Beef Stroganoff is a great option for a weeknight dinner. With tender beef, mushrooms, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned; remove from skillet.
3. Add sliced onion and mushrooms to skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tomato paste, mustard, and broth to skillet; stir to combine.
5. Return beef to skillet; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Stir in sour cream; season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles; garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Blueberry Cobbler
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this easy-to-make Cast Iron Skillet Blueberry Cobbler, perfect for cozy nights or impromptu gatherings. This classic dessert combines the sweetness of blueberries with a crispy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Roll out the flour, butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract mixture on a lightly floured surface to form a thick dough.
4. Place the dough over the blueberry mixture in the preheated skillet.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Skillet Fried Potatoes with Onions
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy tender potatoes and caramelized onions in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chili flakes, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to caramelize.
3. Add the potato slices and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until they are tender and lightly browned.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-17 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Ribeye Steak
A classic ribeye steak cooked to perfection in a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, this recipe yields a juicy and flavorful result.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pound ribeye steak (preferably dry-aged or grass-fed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
– 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
3. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches a scorching hot temperature.
4. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
5. Sear the steak in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
6. Finish cooking the steak by placing the skillet in the oven and cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until your desired level of doneness is reached.
7. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– Searing: 4-6 minutes
– Finishing in the oven: 10-15 minutes
Easy Skillet Chicken Fajitas
A flavorful and quick weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a delicious skillet dish filled with juicy chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and warm tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Banana Bread
This recipe brings together the comfort of traditional banana bread with the crispy crust and golden brown edges that only a cast iron skillet can provide. Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a preheated cast iron skillet coated with cooking spray.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cooking with ease! This article presents 18 simple and delicious cast iron skillet recipes perfect for beginners. From savory dishes like garlic butter herb steak, one-pan chicken thighs, and skillet roasted vegetables to sweet treats like apple crisp and banana bread, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-follow recipes will guide you through the process of cooking up a storm in your cast iron skillet. Discover new flavors and meals to enjoy with friends and family!
