How to Season Cast Iron Skillet Correctly

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Are you wondering how to season cast iron skillet properly? Cast iron skillets are one of the most popular cooking tools in kitchens around the world. These heavy, dark pans are made from iron metal and can last for many years when cared for correctly.

Cast iron skillets need a special treatment called seasoning to work well. Seasoning is a thin layer of oil that becomes hard when heated. This layer protects the iron from rust and makes the pan non-stick. Without proper seasoning, food will stick to the pan and the iron may start to rust.

In this article, we will talk about how to season cast iron skillet, how to clean it, and tips to keep it in good shape. We gathered these guides from various sources, Wednesday (21/1/2026).

Follow these simple steps to season your cast iron skillet correctly:

Step 1: Clean the Pan

Start by washing your cast iron skillet with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge to remove any dirt or factory coating. Dry the pan completely with a clean towel. Place the pan on your stove for 1-2 minutes to remove any remaining water.

Step 2: Choose Your Oil

Select a cooking oil for seasoning. Good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, or corn oil. These oils work well because they heat evenly and create a strong coating. Pour a small amount of oil into the pan - about one teaspoon is enough for most skillets.

Step 3: Apply the Oil

Use a paper towel or clean cloth to spread the oil all over the pan. Cover the inside, outside, and handle completely. After spreading the oil, wipe away any excess oil until the pan looks almost dry. Too much oil can make the surface sticky.

Step 4: Heat in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the oiled pan upside down on the middle oven rack. Put a baking sheet on the bottom rack to catch any oil drips. Heat the pan for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Repeat the Process

Take the hot pan out carefully using oven gloves. Apply another thin layer of oil and wipe away excess. Return the pan to the oven for another 30 minutes. Repeat this oil and heating process 3-4 times total.

Step 6: Cool Down

Turn off the oven and let the pan cool completely inside. Do not open the oven door during cooling. Once cool, your cast iron skillet is ready to use.

Yes, you should re-season your cast iron skillet when needed. Signs that your pan needs new seasoning include food sticking more than usual, gray spots appearing on the surface, or rust forming. Well-used pans may need re-seasoning every few months during the first year. However, regular cooking with oil naturally builds up seasoning over time, so heavy re-seasoning becomes less necessary as your pan ages and develops a strong coating.

Cleaning your cast iron skillet the right way helps protect the seasoning layer you worked hard to build. Good cleaning habits will keep your pan in excellent condition for many years. Follow these steps after each use:

Step 1: Clean While Warm

Clean your cast iron skillet while it is still warm but not hot. Scrape off any food pieces with a plastic scraper or wooden spoon. For stuck food, add warm water and let it sit for a few minutes.

Step 2: Wash Gently

You can use mild soap and warm water to wash your pan. This is safe for seasoned cast iron despite old beliefs. Use a soft sponge or brush to clean the surface. Avoid steel wool or harsh scrubbers that can damage the seasoning.

Step 3: Dry Completely

Rinse the pan with clean water and dry it right away with a towel. Place the pan on the stove over low heat for 1-2 minutes to make sure all water evaporates. Moisture can cause rust on cast iron.

Step 4: Apply Thin Oil Layer

While the pan is still warm, add a tiny amount of cooking oil. Wipe it around with a paper towel until the pan looks almost dry. This thin oil layer protects the pan and maintains the seasoning between uses.

Here are important tips to get the best results from your cast iron cookware:

- Preheat Before Cooking: Always heat your cast iron skillet slowly before adding food. Start with low heat for 3-5 minutes, then increase to your desired cooking temperature. This prevents food from sticking and ensures even cooking.

- Avoid Acidic Foods at First: Do not cook tomatoes, vinegar, or lemon juice in new cast iron pans. These acidic foods can damage fresh seasoning and create metallic tastes. Wait until your pan has strong seasoning before cooking acidic ingredients.

- Use Enough Fat: Add oil, butter, or other cooking fats when cooking. Cast iron needs fat to prevent sticking, especially with eggs or delicate foods. The fat also helps build up the seasoning layer.

- Cook Fatty Foods First: When your pan is new, cook bacon, steaks, or other fatty foods often. The fat from these foods helps strengthen the seasoning quickly. Avoid cooking eggs or pancakes until your seasoning is well-developed.

- Store in Dry Place: Keep your cast iron skillet in a dry cabinet or on the stove. Never store it while damp, as this causes rust. Some people place paper towels between stacked pans to prevent scratching.

- Handle Temperature Changes Carefully: Never put a hot cast iron pan into cold water. This sudden temperature change can crack the pan. Let it cool down first, then wash with warm water.

- Use Metal Utensils Safely: You can use metal spatulas with cast iron, unlike non-stick pans. However, be gentle to avoid scraping away seasoning. Wooden or plastic utensils are also good choices.

- Never Store Food in the Pan: Remove all food from your cast iron skillet after cooking. Storing food in the pan can damage the seasoning and create metallic flavors. Transfer leftovers to proper storage containers.