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While we *would* literally trust Ina Garten with our lives, usually, we can keep things low-stakes and simply rely on her for trustworthy advice on all things cooking-related. Her cookbooks, television shows, and website offer a plethora of recipes, tips, and tricks that make life in the kitchen easier. That's why, when we noticed that one of her favorite recommended pieces of cookware was on sale we freaked.
Garten loves the Lodge cast iron skillet - she even recommends it on her website, Barefoot Contessa. And today, you can get it on Amazon for over 40 percent off, bringing the everyday 10.25-inch skillet to just under $20.
In fact, most of the sizes in the Lodge listing are marked down by over 40 percent. So if you're looking to expand your cast iron collection, now is definitely the time to do so.
Cast iron is super resilient compared to nonstick, and even stainless steel, pans. They're literally made to last a lifetime with proper care. It's also prized for getting super hot and holding the heat, which makes it ideal for searing steaks and other meats. There are a lot of myths about cast iron cooking that have been disproved, so once you get your hands on one, you'll realize how much of a kitchen workhorse your cast iron skillet really is. And if you like it, you can branch out - Lodge also sells cast iron griddles.
These skillets are American-made and come pre-seasoned, so you can start cooking right away. Lodge pans are definitely worth the investment (despite it not being priced like an investment piece!).
And once you've got your skillet, we also highly recommend adding this Amazon Basics silicone handle cover to your order to prevent any burns! It's only $7 and comes in red, blue, and black.
Once you get your hands on a cast iron skillet, Garten has several recipes you can use to test it out (though many recommend cooking up a big batch of bacon as your first dish in cast iron to help give it primo seasoning).
Try Garten's skillet-roasted lemon chicken, panko-crusted salmon, and steakhouse steaks all show off the versatility of the Lodge cast iron skillet.
What else can you cook? A hearty breakfast or brunch means like one-skillet biscuits and gravy, cast iron sun-dried tomato chicken and rice, and Frito skillet pie. Soon you'll be patting yourself on your back for listening to Garten, and for snagging this essential kitchen item while it was on sale.
Before you go, check out Ina Garten's easy weeknight dinner recipes below:
Watch: How to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet
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