The 5 Best Cast Iron Baking Pans

Looking for the best cast iron baking pan? Cast iron pans produce great results in the kitchen and are a preferred method of cooking for professionals and kitchen enthusiasts everywhere. They are a great alternative for those who want to stay away from coated pans or aluminum cooking pans and products. In addition, they also supplement iron to your diet, which makes them a perfect selection for your next baking pan. Not all baking pans are the same, which is why I cultivated cast iron baking pan reviews & ratings to help you find the right one today.

The 5 Top Cast Iron Baking Pans

Cooking at and setting up the camping kitchen is part of the camping experience, and it helps to know which cast iron baking pans offer the best value and features based on your individual needs. This review narrows down the selections to five of the top contenders in my opinion. Each varies in size and shape to offer options to those who are cooking for either larger groups or two to three people, and they all offer great value to fit any budget. Here are the top 5 best cast iron baking pans for camping.

Best Choice
Our Score 10 Out of 10
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Premium Pick
Our Score 10 Out of 10
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Best Value
Our Score 6 Out of 10
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Runner Up
Our Score 8 Out of 10
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Honorable Mention
Our Score 8 Out of 10
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* Ratings are determined using our specialized rating system.

Bayou Classic 7472 Cast Iron Baking Pan 8 x 8 Inches

Our Score 10 out of 10
Bayou Classic 7472 Cast Iron Baking Pan, 8 by 8"
Bayou Classic 7472 Cast Iron Baking Pan, 8 by 8" amazon.com Check price

Cast Iron Baking Pan 8" X 8"
Transfers & Retains Heat Evenly
Preseasoned For A Smoother Finish
Breakfast, Pan, Fry, Saute, Bake
Do Not Place In Dishwasher

The Bayou Classic 7472 Cast Iron Baking Pan is a versatile addition to your camping gear. I love the size because it can handle both large and small meals without being too bulky or small. This iron baking pan measures 8″ x 8″ and handles everything from a full-size chicken to the classic campfire beans. One of the best features is the ability to distribute the heat underneath evenly so food comes out consistently cooked. Another feature that many buyers like is the farmhouse feel that it lends to the overall look and style of a cookware collection, which makes it even better for camping.

A feature of this pan that many will appreciate is its depth. The sides are tall enough to accommodate a variety of soups and stews, and it’s even appropriate for deep frying fish or other foods from a cast iron cookbook if you wish. There really isn’t anything that this nifty baking pan can’t handle. In addition, there’s no need to season the pan because it comes pre-seasoned and has a smooth finish unlike other competitors.

There is one thing to keep in mind, though; this particular baking pan doesn’t come with a lid. In all, this cast iron bake pan provides more bang for the buck and can move from the kitchen to the campfire with ease. It’s a perfect option for first-time campers who want to avoid spending big bucks for quality, which makes it the top contender for best cast iron baking pan.

Pros
  • Ideal size
  • Great price
  • Even heat distribution
  • Multiple uses
  • Does not come with a lid
Cons
  • Does not come with a lid

Crock Pot 13 Inch Preseasoned Cast Iron Rectangular Lasagna Pan

Our Score 10 out of 10
Crock Pot Artisan 13 Inch Preseasoned Cast Iron Rectangular Lasagna Pan
Crock Pot Artisan 13 Inch Preseasoned Cast Iron Rectangular Lasagna Pan amazon.com Check price

Distributes and retains heat evenly
Perfect for cooking, serving and storing
Great for casseroles and baking or roasting
Works on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops
Oven safe up to 500 ...

Campers and cooking enthusiasts alike who search for a traditional round cast iron cooking/baking pan are going to love the Lodge L 10SKL Cast Iron Dual Handle 12″ Pan. I personally feel like this model is a contender for the top spot, but may be lacking in size. Its 12″ round size makes it ideal for serving one to three people. It has high enough sides to allow it to fry, bake, and sauté. Additionally, it can handle high heat with no problems. Another feature that makes this pan really attractive is its price. This pan fits both budget and versatility, especially for those who need it for indoor and outdoor uses.

Pros
  • Can fry, bake, and saute food
  • Can cook in high heat
  • Good for both indoor and outdoor usage
  • On the smaller side, only feeding up to three people
Cons
  • On the smaller side, only feeding up to three people

Bayou Classic 7471, 12 x 14 Inch Cast Iron Shallow Baking Pan

Our Score 6 out of 10
Bayou Classic 7471, 12 x 14-in Cast Iron Shallow Baking Pan
Bayou Classic 7471, 12 x 14-in Cast Iron Shallow Baking Pan amazon.com Check price

Cast Iron Bacon Pan 12" X 14"
Transfers & Retains Heat Evenly
Preseasoned For A Smoother Finish
Breakfast, Pan, Fry, Saute, Bake
Do Not Place In Dishwasher

Shoppers who are in the market for a great cast iron pan for camping, but don’t want to spend much money, should consider the Bayou Classic 7471 12″ x 14″ Cast Iron Shallow Baking Pan. This pan is adequate for cooking a variety of meals and provides plenty of useful features, which is why it’s in the running for best cast iron baking pan. For example, it would be fantastic for cooking veggies with any fish caught while on the camping trip. It would also be ideal for cooking breakfast foods such as eggs, bacon, sausage, and even pancakes. This wouldn’t necessarily be a great choice for deep frying food or large volumes of stews, etc., but for light cooking, this is the best cast iron baking pan for the price.

Another reason why this particular pan provides great value for the money is that it doesn’t cool down when additional food is added, so the meal cooks to perfection. Losing heat while cooking can lead to food becoming greasy or soggy when it is finished and this pan helps prevent this from happening due to fluctuations in temperature. Some points to keep in mind before purchasing this pan are the sides are only 1/2″ high and the pre-seasoning may need some additional work before the pan is ready to use.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Great for breakfast during camping
  • Even cooking temperature
  • Keeps heat while adding food
  • Cast iron may need seasoning before use
Cons
  • Cast iron may need seasoning before use

Lodge L10SKL 12 inch Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan

Our Score 8 out of 10
Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan, 12 inch,Black
Lodge Cast Iron Dual Handle Pan, 12 inch,Black amazon.com Check price

With ample cooking surface and an ergonomic dual-assist handle design, this 12” Lodge cast iron skillet is at home in the oven, on the stove top, on the grill or over the campfire.
Brutally tough f...

Although the Crock Pot 112010.01 Artisan 13″ Cast Iron Rectangular Pan is intended to make lasagna, it can really serve many purposes, one of which, is camping. Its size and shape make it ideal for any uses while cooking in the wilderness. It has 7″ high sides, which allow you to stack it tall with whatever foods or dishes you want. Additionally, it is safe to use for heat up to 500 degrees, so no need to worry while using it in the woods where temperatures in the fire can vary greatly. It is also great for cooking large meals for multiple people because it comes in a convenient 18″ x 10″ size. Not only is it ideal for the great outdoors, it is also beneficial for cooking at home and for holidays.

Some great uses for this pan would include searing steaks and pork chops, creating deserts, and simmering sauces. It is important to note that you should consider an additional seasoning process before using the pan to prevent sticking and allow for a better outcome when cooking. As far as price is concerned, it isn’t the cheapest of the five reviewed, but it provides great design and durability combined with versatility.

Pros
  • Large design for multiple portions
  • Good for searing
  • Ideal for casseroles and desserts
  • Does not come with a lid
Cons
  • Does not come with a lid

Bayou Classic Cast Iron Rectangular Cake Pan 9 x 13 Inches

Our Score 8 out of 10
Bayou Classic 7473 7473-Cast Iron Rectangular Cake Pan, 9 by 13", Black
Bayou Classic 7473 7473-Cast Iron Rectangular Cake Pan, 9 by 13", Black amazon.com Check price

Cast Iron Bakeware transfers and retains heat evenly to thoroughly cook
Caramelize and sear food juices to crusty brown perfection
Stove-top, Oven, Broiler and Grill safe
Seasoned to ease cleaning ...

The Bayou Classic 7473 13″ Cast Iron Rectangular Pan is a work horse in disguise. It is built originally to make a cake, but it is capable of so much more. Priced moderately, this particular pan can handle casseroles, large poultry dishes, and can even sear and sauté. It is designed to heat evenly to help cake rise and cook uniformly. This translates into a better finished dish if using this pan for food other than cakes. It is also designed to handle high heat and can even be used on the stove top or on a campfire. Overall, this option works well for those who need to cook large portions, or who plan to use this pan for a multitude of purposes over time.

Additionally, it features a rustic look that looks great in any kitchen and it is designed to last for many years to come. Some drawbacks of this pan would be the lack of a lid or top. However, a separate lid can be used if necessary. It can prove to be somewhat bulky to transport with the addition of camping gear for several people, but it is worth the outcome when its used for cooking on a camping grill or campfire.

Pros
  • Large size with deep sides
  • Good for any cook surface
  • Made of durable material
  • Does not come with a lid
Cons
  • Does not come with a lid

Important Cast Iron Baking Pan Features to Consider

Selecting the best cast iron baking pan can depend on a few different factors. As I previously mentioned, the size of the group you are cooking for should be the top deciding factor. Another is how evenly the pan holds its temperature. When you are cooking outdoors or by a campfire, the heat distribution isn’t evenly dispersed like it is when using kitchen appliances. To avoid overcooked or undercooked areas, consider how well the pan is designed to distribute heat and hold its temperature. Additionally, just like with a cast iron melting pot, if you are cooking small sides or individual servings for items such as pancakes or food that cooks quickly, you will want to make sure there are handles on the pan for quick transfers and removal from the heat.

Preseasoned pans are also highly recommended. If the pan is preseasoned, it will save you time doing it yourself, and it will generally perform better right out of the gate. Some pans may require some additional seasoning, however, so make sure to experiment with it first before attempting to cook a meal. If the food tastes metallic, it will need to be seasoned again.

Benefits of Using a Cast Iron Baking Pan

Using a cast iron baking pan offers plenty of benefits as opposed to using aluminum or coated pans. First, the food cooks more evenly and comes out looking and tasting better. Second, it is easier to transfer dishes from the cook top to the oven without having to switch pans. At the campsite, these pans can handle varied and high heat from a variety of cooking sources and surfaces. They can be put into a camping oven, over an open campfire, or on a propane camping stove, which makes them perfect for traveling and cooking just about anywhere. They also provide vital iron in your diet, which is a huge benefit. Many people are iron deficient and don’t even realize it! Using cast iron is a great way to easily avoid that deficiency and improve the quality of your meals.

Precautions When Using a Cast Iron Baking Pan

Finally, cast iron cookware is easy to care for, whether it’s a cast iron wok, a cast iron teapot, or a cast iron grill pan. Once seasoned, you will simply need to wipe the surface clean using a rag or towel, which can be lightly oiled first. Wipe cast iron clean throughly. You can use lightly soapy water if necessary, but make sure to dry thoroughly to avoid rust. Never put cast iron in the dishwasher because it will rust immediately. Additionally, avoid quick temperature changes because the iron can crack. Store cast iron carefully by placing a paper towel inside if you are stacking to avoid water and to absorb excess oil.

To learn more about different cast iron baking pans on the market, check out our Lodge cast iron reviews, Tramontina cast iron reviews, and Finex cast iron reviews to see what these great cast iron brands have to offer.

Conclusion

Although these pans all have their quality points, there can only be one top pick for best cast iron baking pan, and that is the Bayou Classic 7472 8″ x 8″ Cast Iron Baking Pan. The reason this particular model comes out on top is because it combines convenience, flexibility, and economy in one rustic package. Anyone looking for a great piece of cookware to add to their list of items to bring would benefit from this particular product. Keep in mind, however, that this model may not be ideal for someone who wants to pack light or who needs it only for camping trips for one or two people. Any of these cast iron baking pans are highly rated and make a great addition to your current camping gear and should merit a closer look before making a selection.

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