15 Easy Cast Iron Skillet Recipes
I reach for my cast iron skillet on busy days more than anything else — it’s reliable, versatile, and makes cleanup so much easier. That’s exactly why I put together these 15 Easy Cast Iron Skillet Recipes — simple meals you can make in one pan without overthinking dinner.
These are the recipes I actually use when I want big flavor with minimal effort, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or something cozy for the weekend. From hearty mains to comforting classics, every dish here is beginner-friendly and made with everyday ingredients.
If you’re looking for no-fuss recipes that deliver great results every time, this roundup will quickly become your go-to.
1. Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich
This sammy was spicy, it was juicy, it was so fresh! The tomato slices on there and that little bunch of arugula, and then that creamy, tangy Avocado Blue Cheese Dressing with the brioche bun to bring it all together. So, so good!
2. Cast Iron Ribeye Steak
This Cast Iron Ribeye Steak with Pears and Blue Cheese is the perfect combination of ease, indulgence, and seasonal flavors. And let me give you permission right now to notwait for a special occasion to try this!
3. Oatmeal, Fruit, Nut & Chocolate Skillet Cookie
When you need a fast, easy dessert recipe for a crowd (or you’re just craving a giant cookie), make this delicious skillet cookie. It’s packed with good-for-you ingredients, like oats, dried fruit, nuts, dark chocolate, unsweetened coconut, and whole wheat flour.
Just pile your cookie dough in a cast iron skillet and bake.
4. CRANBERRY APPLE SKILLET CHICKEN
Moist, tender perfectly seared Skillet Chicken is delicious with the flavors of apple cider, cranberries and apple slices. The wholesome ingredients make an easy dinner recipe that’s fast to make! It’s a family favorite chicken dinner.
5. CAST IRON NEW YORK STRIP
The easiest way to make seared steak in a cast iron skillet! Exactly how to make NY Strip Steak on the stove with easy, buttery shallot sauce made right in the steak pan drippings makes the most fun date night at home.
This entire recipe has just 5 ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes. I particularly love the shallot sauce served over rosemary steamed potatoes or mushroom rice.
6. Blackened Cast Iron Pork Tenderloin
Tender and juicy pork tenderloin coated in cajun spices, then topped with a shallot and white wine pan sauce. This method makes perfectly cooked juicy pork tenderloin every time.
Fast and easy cast iron pork tenderloin recipe makes a great weeknight dinner, and is ready in 30 minutes!
7. Cast Iron Chicken
This Cast Iron Chicken with Persimmon, Red Onion & Lentils is a complete fall meal filled with seasonal flavors. Tender, juicy chicken is paired with a gorgeous combo of persimmon, squash, lentils, red onion, and kale, then finished with a warm spiced orange butter that pulls everything together.
It’s an easy way to transform everyday chicken into a dish that’s comforting, delightful, and packed with flavor.
8. Skillet Cornbread
This Skillet Cornbread recipe combines the rich flavors of cornmeal, a hint of sweetness, and the delightful crispiness that only a cast iron skillet can provide. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this cornbread is a must-try for gatherings, weeknight dinners, and holiday feasts.
9. COOKIES & CREAM PIZOOKIE
This BJ’s inspired Cookies & Cream Pizookie is a delightful twist on a classic skillet cookie, packed with Oreos and chocolate chips. It’s ready in about 20 minutes and perfect for sharing after dinner. Once you’ve tried this, you’ll be making it on repeat!
10. One Pan Caprese Chicken Skillet
This One Pan Caprese Chicken is fresh, flavorful, and makes my kitchen smell incredibly delicious. And it’s all done with just one pan! Enjoy this recipe on its own or pair with your favorite sides like pasta or roasted vegetables. It’s guaranteed to impress!
11. Blackened Chicken Breast
Tender, juicy, and SO flavorful – blackened chicken breasts are a delicious way to spice up any meal! Chicken is seared in a hot cast iron skillet, then finished cooking in the oven to keep it extra juicy.
The spicy cajun seasoning mix makes the perfect blackened crust. Taste and you’ll see why blackened recipes are a menu staple!
12. Apple cinnamon skillet cake
Moist and packed full of fall flavors, this apple cinnamon cake is the perfect comfort food for either breakfast or dessert!
13. Cast Iron Skillet Pizza
Cast iron skillet pizza is the easiest way to make homemade pizza at home! This simple recipe takes just 5 ingredients and 15 minutes to make.
14. RESTAURANT-STYLE CHICKEN FAJITAS
Chicken fajitas are a restaurant favorite, and they’re easier to make at home than you’d think! Taking a little extra time to deeply caramelize onions and optionally making your own homemade fajita seasoning blend will make your dinner table feel like a real Tex-Mex restaurant!
15. SKILLET CORNBREAD
This skillet cornbread with green chiles and toasted cumin is one of our favorite go-to sides for BBQ. The recipe is inspired by the Spicy Corn Bread recipe from the KCBS BBQ Society cookbook and The Fearless Chef.
