When it comes to cooking on a busy weekday, there’s nothing quite like having a few trusty recipes up your sleeve. And if you’re anything like us, you know that one of the most versatile and reliable tools in your kitchen arsenal is the humble cast iron skillet.
Whether you’re cooking up a hearty breakfast, a satisfying dinner, or even a sweet treat, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet can do it all. But what really makes these recipes shine is just how quick and easy they are to prepare – perfect for those crazy weeknights when you barely have time to think about what’s for dinner, let alone cook it.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite cast iron skillet recipes that are sure to become staples in your own kitchen. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired twists and sweet treats, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your trusty cast iron skillet and get ready to cook up some delicious weeknight meals!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your mealtime with these mouth-watering garlic butter steak bites, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying tender, flavorful bites in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Place steak cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Sprinkle Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Pizza
Get ready to enjoy a crispy crust and gooey cheese without the hassle of a traditional oven! This recipe uses a cast iron skillet to cook up a mouthwatering pizza that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a cast iron skillet coated with cooking spray.
6. Top with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your desired toppings.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Fajitas
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make one-pan chicken fajita recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Flip and cook an additional 3-4 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas with cooked chicken and vegetable mixture, and add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Skillet Cornbread
Elevate your meals with this simple and satisfying skillet cornbread recipe. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased 10-inch cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple recipe that yields a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese dish cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work best)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter
This recipe combines the richness of pan-seared salmon with the brightness of lemon butter, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Place the salmon in the skillet, skin side up (if it has skin).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is seared and cooked through.
5. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium. Add lemon juice, garlic, and parsley to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Serve the pan-seared salmon with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skillet Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a hearty and flavorful breakfast hash, packed with crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and scrambled eggs. This one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick and easy morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 4 large eggs
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Scramble in the eggs and stir until they’re just set.
5. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Roasted Vegetables
Transform your favorite vegetables into a caramelized masterpiece with this simple recipe that leverages the natural sweetness of the cast iron skillet. The result is a deliciously roasted medley of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet in a 425°F oven for at least 10 minutes.
2. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Remove the skillet from the oven and add the vegetable mixture.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables reach your desired level of caramelization.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Skillet Lasagna
Easy Skillet Lasagna: A Quick and Delicious Twist on a Classic
This recipe takes the traditional lasagna dish and simplifies it by cooking everything in one skillet, reducing prep time and cleanup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Arrange lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce, overlapping slightly.
5. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the noodles, followed by mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Apple Crisp
This classic dessert gets a rustic twist when cooked in a cast iron skillet, resulting in a crispy, caramelized topping and tender apples. Perfect for cozy nights with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large cast iron skillet, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until coated.
3. Top with rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
4. Dot the top with butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Gravy
Elevate your weeknight meals with this easy and flavorful pan-fried pork chops recipe, served with a rich and savory gravy. This classic comfort food dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Sprinkle the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the gravy over them. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Shrimp Scampi
This recipe brings together the flavors of garlic butter, lemon, and succulent shrimp, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cast Iron Blueberry Cobbler
This warm and comforting dessert is perfect for any occasion. Fresh blueberries, sugar, and spices are topped with a crispy, buttery crust that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Pour the melted butter over the blueberry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Roll out the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to form a disk.
5. Place the dough on top of the blueberry mixture, trimming any excess crust from the edges.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Rice
This hearty one-pan dish combines flavorful chicken, savory rice, and aromatic vegetables in a single pot, making it perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll be enjoying this comforting meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the same pan. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pan and cover with a lid or aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent skillet cookie that’s ready in just 20 minutes. The perfect treat for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, white granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour the mixture into a 10-inch oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cast Iron Garlic Herb Bread
Savor the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs in this simple recipe. Perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or served on its own as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dried thyme.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto the cut side of the bread.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, garlic-side up.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
This recipe yields tender and flavorful scallops seared to perfection, paired with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter; once melted, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet; sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Cook until melted and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve the scallops with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Skillet Beef Stroganoff
In this hearty and flavorful recipe, tender beef strips are cooked with sautéed onions and mushrooms, then served over egg noodles. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in beef broth, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Return beef to the skillet and simmer until heated through.
5. Serve beef mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This classic dessert gets a rustic twist with the use of cast iron cookware, resulting in a crispy brown crust and a moist, pineapple-filled center.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) pineapple rings, drained and cut into quarters
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Arrange pineapple rings in the cast iron skillet, leaving space between each ring.
6. Pour batter over pineapples; smooth top.
7. Cook for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Skillet Chicken Parmesan
This classic Italian-American dish gets a modern twist with this quick and delicious skillet recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying crispy, cheesy chicken parmesan in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
4. Add chicken to the preheated skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Spoon marinara sauce over the chicken and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy recipes perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further! This collection of cast iron skillet recipes has got you covered. From savory dishes like garlic butter steak bites, one-pan chicken fajitas, and pan-seared salmon with lemon butter to sweet treats like cast iron apple crisp, skillet chocolate chip cookies, and pineapple upside-down cake, there’s something for everyone. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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