Home & Kitchen with Caraway

The 8 Best Cooking Oils for Cast Iron (& Which Ones To Avoid)

When it comes to cast iron, the right cooking oil can make all the difference between a beautifully seasoned pan and one that’s a nightmare to clean. At Caraway , we believe in helping home cooks take the best care of their cookware—and that starts with understanding which oils work best on cast iron for seasoning and cooking.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the top cooking oils for cast iron, what makes them ideal, and which ones to steer clear of so your cast iron skillet stays in top shape for years to come.

Looking for a seasoning-free cast iron alternative? Explore our easy-to-use Enameled Cast Iron Collection .

What Is Cast Iron?

Cast iron cookware is a kitchen workhorse that has earned its place in homes for generations.

Known for its incredible durability and heat retention, cast iron is made by melting iron and pouring it into molds , creating a tough, dense material that can last for decades with proper care. Whether you're searing steaks, frying eggs, or baking cornbread, a cast iron skillet can handle it all.

However, the real magic of cast iron lies in its ability to develop a naturally slick surface over time. This layer—known as seasoning—prevents food from sticking and helps protect the pan from rust.

What Are the Best Cooking Oils for Cast Iron?

Your cast iron skillet is ready to go, but choosing the right oil is crucial to keeping it in peak condition. The oil you use can make or break your seasoning, impacting your cast iron cookware's non-stick surface, flavor, and longevity.

Here’s a breakdown of the top oils to use:

1. Avocado Oil

Avocado oil tops the list thanks to its high smoke point, which is perfect for high-heat cooking. It’s excellent for searing and sautéing on the stovetop, and it helps build a durable, non-stick layer of seasoning on your cast iron skillet. Plus, its neutral flavor won’t interfere with the taste of your food.

2. Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is another solid choice, especially for those who prefer a light-textured oil with a high smoke point. It’s ideal for both cooking and seasoning cast iron pans, helping maintain a smooth cooking surface without leaving any strong flavors behind.

3. Sunflower Oil

With a high smoke point, sunflower oil is great for seasoning and cooking with cast iron . It creates a strong layer of seasoning that enhances the non-stick properties of your cast iron cookware, ensuring that food slides off easily, whether you’re frying or roasting.

4. Canola Oil

Canola oil is budget-friendly and versatile. It has a decent smoke point and works well for everyday cast iron cooking. Canola oil helps form a strong, even layer of seasoning on your cast iron pan, making it a reliable go-to in any kitchen.

5. Peanut Oil

Known for its high smoke point, peanut oil is perfect for seasoning cast iron, especially if you do a lot of frying or sautéing. Its neutral flavor ensures your dishes turn out just right without any unwanted tastes.

6. Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is often recommended for the initial seasoning process. It polymerizes well, creating a strong, non-stick surface on your cast iron skillet. Just keep in mind that it’s best used for seasoning rather than cooking due to its low smoke point.

7. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a good option for seasoning cast iron, especially if you enjoy its subtle flavor. Its moderate smoke point makes it versatile enough for both seasoning and cooking, adding a unique taste to your dishes.

8. Animal Fats

Traditional options like lard, Crisco, and bacon grease have been used for generations to season cast iron cookware. These fats create a durable, non-stick surface and bring a rich, old-school flavor to your meals, making them a favorite for cast iron cooking.

Which Cooking Oils Should You Avoid With Cast Iron?

While some oils are perfect for seasoning and cooking, others can lead to sticky messes, uneven seasoning, and a lot of frustration.

Here’s a list of oils you might want to steer clear of when working with cast iron cookware:

Vegetable Oil

While vegetable oil is common in many kitchens, it’s not the best option for seasoning cast iron. Its low smoke point can cause the oil to break down quickly, creating a sticky surface and uneven seasoning.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a favorite for many types of cooking, but it’s not ideal for cast iron. With its low smoke point, olive oil can easily burn, leaving behind a residue that can be tough to clean off your cast iron pan. It's best saved for stovetop cooking at lower temperatures.

Butter

Butter may add rich flavor to your dishes, but it’s not great for seasoning cast iron. Its low smoke point can cause it to burn quickly, leaving behind a sticky residue and potentially damaging the seasoned surface of your cast iron pan.

What Are Some Tips for Maintaining Your Cast Iron?

Keeping your cast iron cookware in peak condition requires a few simple but effective steps.

These tips will help you maintain that coveted slick surface and rich patina:

Preheat Slowly: Start with low heat and gradually increase to avoid warping . This is especially important when using your cast iron pan on a high-temperature stovetop.
Avoid Excess Oil: Wipe off any drips and excess oil with a paper towel before heating. This prevents the oil from pooling and creating sticky spots.
Scrub Gently: Use a soft scrubber with warm water to clean, avoiding harsh soap. For stubborn bits, a stainless steel scrubber can help without damaging the patina.

Want to skip the seasoning process altogether? Ditch the hassle with Caraway's Enameled Cast Iron . Our enameled pans come with a smooth, non-porous, and non-toxic enamel coating that’s ready to cook with—right out of the box.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right oil for your cast iron skillet is more than just a matter of taste; it’s about maintaining the integrity and longevity of your cookware. Whether you're seasoning a new pan or cooking up a storm, the oils you use play a crucial role in creating that perfect non-stick surface and rich patina.

Caraway's cookware offers an effortless alternative for those who want to bypass the seasoning process altogether. Our cookware combines the benefits of traditional cast iron with the convenience of a natural, ready-to-use coating—perfect for the modern home cook.