Field Company Cast Iron Skillet: Perfect for Kitchen and Campfire Cooking

For anyone searching for a stylish, non-toxic cast iron skillet that excels on the stovetop, in the oven, or over a campfire, the Field Company Skillet is a fantastic investment. It's lighter and smoother than many alternatives, ensuring durability for years.

Why You Should Consider It

• Sturdy build

• Classic design

• Low-stick surface

• Excellent meat browning

• Safe for oven use

• Ideal for campfire cooking

• Long-lasting quality

What to Keep in Mind

• Requires regular maintenance (seasoning after each use)

Expert reviewers dedicate significant time to test and evaluate the latest cookware, ensuring you find the best options for your needs.

If you enjoy outdoor cooking and appreciate quality tools, the Field Company Cast Iron Skillet, starting at $165, is a great addition to your kitchen.

In my search for the best cookware, I discovered Field Company, which made it into my list of the top cast iron cookware. I crafted perfect steaks, campfire meals, frittatas, and pancakes with ease. The smooth finish allowed for effortless sautéing, and even baked goods like brownies lifted out cleanly.

However, it does demand a bit of upkeep. This skillet suits those who enjoy a hands-on approach to cooking, but it may not be the best choice for those who prefer a quick and straightforward cooking process. Here's what I learned during my six months of testing.

Specifications of the Field Company Skillet

Design & First Impressions

Upon first glance, the Field Company cast iron skillet impresses with its vintage-inspired, heirloom-quality design. The smooth surface and timeless shape invite you to cook.

I selected the mid-sized No. 8 skillet, crafted from raw cast iron and pre-seasoned with organic grapeseed oil. Just clean it, heat it up, and apply a light seasoning before the first use. Over time, a natural non-stick surface develops without synthetic additives.

Avoid cooking acidic foods, like tomatoes, in a bare cast iron skillet as they might create an off-flavor.

Cooking Performance

Before cooking with the Field Company Cast Iron Skillet, preheat it on low for about five minutes and generously coat with oil or butter. Over six months, I noticed that the seasoning improved with each use.

In the initial weeks, I avoided acidic ingredients and baked numerous frittatas. They began with onions and kale sizzling in the skillet, turning golden brown as they softened. After mixing in whisked eggs, tomatoes, and feta, I placed the pan in the oven.

It felt lighter compared to other cast-iron options, yet I still needed two hands to maneuver it into the oven. After baking, each frittata released easily from the skillet, a testament to its smooth finish — no residue or sticky mess.

Next, I tackled breakfast with fried eggs. On a couple of weekends, I loaded the skillet with eggs, sausages, bacon, and even a few pancakes. The eggs developed crispy bottoms but needed some coaxing to lift out, leaving a slight mess behind. Other ingredients cooked evenly; pancakes browned beautifully, and sausages crisped up nicely.

A key advantage of the Field Company Skillet is its ability to withstand high heat; it's perfect for cooking over a fire or in a pizza oven. My partner claimed it for our camping trips. Unlike non-stick pans, overheating is not a concern, allowing us to sear meats and veggies on high heat without worry.

This skillet shines on grills and open flames — we cooked burgers, steaks, campfire 'smores, and even baked Dutch baby pancakes in our Ooni pizza oven during the summer.

Cleaning & Maintenance

While cast iron requires some attention, the Field Company skillet comes with clear care instructions that guide you on what to do (and what to avoid). I found the maintenance routine quite therapeutic, although there were times I opted for my best non-stick frying pan.

I pinned the instructions on my fridge, washing the skillet by hand, drying it well, and lightly seasoning it after every use. Never soak or simmer salty liquids for long, and initially, stay away from acidic foods until the seasoning is well established. After consistent care, the non-stick performance greatly improved.

How It Stacks Up Against Others

Compared to other cast iron skillets I've tried, like the Lodge Chef Collection Skillet, the Field Company option feels smoother and more refined.

While Lodge is durable and functional, the Field Company No. 8 offers a premium feel and vintage appeal, making it heirloom-quality cookware. It balances practicality and aesthetics, encouraging proper care.

Should You Make the Purchase?

Field Company's classic American skillet is durable, low-stick, and delightful to cook with, excelling in both stove-to-oven and campfire methods. It does require care and maintenance, which may not suit those seeking quick meal solutions. However, if you're willing to invest time into handwashing, drying, and seasoning, you'll enjoy decades of reliable use — a kitchen staple your family will cherish for years.

Our Testing Process

A quality frying pan must check all the boxes: versatility, manageable weight, excellent cooking performance, and easy cleaning.

I put each pan to the test for over a month, assessing how they stand up over time. Many pans perform well initially but tend to stick and discolor with prolonged use. Finding a reliable skillet is crucial, especially when you've spent your hard-earned money.

When testing, I seek a pan that can handle a variety of tasks, from frying delicate eggs to searing a steak with a perfect crust. It should feel balanced — not too heavy to lift but substantial enough to heat evenly.

I focus on notoriously tricky recipes, including: tofu, sticky cheeses like halloumi, steak, and fried eggs. I evaluate how these perform in the skillet and the mess left behind, since no one enjoys scrubbing after dinner.

With my background from a professional cooking school and experience as a food writer and recipe editor for renowned culinary brands, I hold high standards.