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How to Season a Cast Iron Skillet

Seasoning cast iron is all about protecting the metal and creating a natural nonstick surface. With just salt, soap, and Crisco, you can restore even a rusty pan and make it last for generations.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour

Equipment

  • Warm water & mild dish soap
  • Microfiber towel or napkins
  • Tools
  • Cast iron skillet (in need of seasoning)
  • Chainmail scrubber or stiff brush
  • Oven (capable of 500°F)
  • Baking tray (to catch drips)

Ingredients

  • ½ cup Kosher salt coarse grind
  • 1 –2 tbsp Crisco or avocado oil / olive oil as alternatives

Instructions

  • Scrub the Skillet
  • Coat the inside of your skillet with kosher salt.
  • Using a chainmail scrubber or brush, scrub in circular motions.
  • Discard dirty salt and repeat at least twice, covering the inside, outside, and bottom.
  • Wash & Dry
  • Rinse with a small amount of mild dish soap and warm water.
  • Scrub gently with a microfiber towel.
  • Dry completely with a towel, then place on high heat burner until all moisture evaporates.
  • Preheat for Seasoning
  • Preheat oven to 200°F.
  • Place skillet inside for 5–6 minutes to warm and open pores of the metal.
  • Oil the Skillet
  • Remove skillet while warm and rub a thin layer of Crisco (inside, outside, handle, and bottom).
  • Wipe away excess oil with a lint-free rag.
  • Bake the Skillet
  • Increase oven to 500°F.
  • Place skillet upside down in oven with a tray underneath.
  • Bake for 30 minutes, then turn oven off and let it rest inside for another 30 minutes.
  • Repeat
  • For best results, repeat oiling and baking cycle 2–3 times.

Notes

Seasoning builds up over time—the more you cook, the better it gets.
Avoid too much oil; thin, even coats work best.
Properly seasoned cast iron should be glossy, dark, and naturally nonstick.