What’s The Best Temperature For Seasoning A Cast Iron?

Cast iron cookware is ideal for a variety of cooking methods including sautéing, browning, frying, and baking. For example, you might use a cast iron skillet for the perfect seared steak. Experienced users of these heavy pans and pots know that it’s crucial to season your cast iron by oiling it and heating it in the oven. When doing so, it’s best to set the oven to 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for around one hour. The high heat allows the fat molecules in the oil to breakdown and form the glaze or non-stick coating on your cookware. Besides preventing food from sticking when cooking, the glaze also serves as a barrier that protects the iron from rusting.

To properly season your cast iron skillet (or other cast iron cookware), start by washing the pan with warm, soapy water, then dry thoroughly with a towel. (Did you know you can also use salt to clean your cast iron skillet?) Next, spray a thin layer of cooking oil on the inside and outside of your pan, being careful not to overdue it to avoid a sticky skillet. Finally, bake the pan upside down in the oven, ideally with a baking sheet underneath to catch the oil drippings. Allow it to cool before removing. Putting the pan upside down prevents the oil from pooling in one spot. To help it last for years to come, follow some more tips on how to take care of your cast iron.

Cast iron is efficient and effective due to its ability to retain heat and withstand high cooking temperatures, as well as its durability which allows the pans to last for a lifetime. Iron skillets are ideal for crisping food (hashbrowns, veggies, salmon, bacon, chicken, etc.) and are versatile since they can be used in the oven, on the stovetop, or even on the grill. The key to its longevity is taking the time to properly season your cast iron skillet. 

You should season your cast iron immediately after you first purchase it, before cooking with it for the first time. This will build that initial layer of non-stick coating to protect your pan and prevent your food from sticking. After the initial seasoning, it’s advised to season it at least monthly, but this can vary depending on how often you use it. You can also choose to give it a quick seasoning after each time you use it by rinsing it and oiling it. If food starts sticking, it’s best to complete the full seasoning process (oiling and heating it in the oven).

Consider buying an oil specifically for seasoning cast iron skillets like Clark’s Seasoning Oil for Cast Iron Skillets, which is made with 100% plant-based coconut oil. For cleaning, try Clark’s Cast Iron Soap which, unlike other dish soaps, has no harmful additives or artificial gels and will help your skillet last for years.