Cast iron is magnetic, which is exactly what an induction cooktop needs, so most cast iron cookware works on one. The real differences are the base and the finish. A rough base can scratch a glass-ceramic surface, while an enameled or smooth base glides more easily.
The six pieces below cover a plain seasoned skillet, enameled and bare options, a grill pan and a Dutch oven, so you can build a cast iron set that suits an induction range. We have not used these products ourselves, so please confirm sizes, materials and what is included on the current listing before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links, and they do not change the product information we give.
What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Flat base | A flat bottom keeps full contact with the cooktop for even heating |
| Surface finish | A smoother base is kinder to glass; rough bases can scratch it |
| Weight | Heavy pieces need a lift with two hands; do not slide them |
| Finish | Seasoned bare iron needs oil care; enameled iron does not |
Specs at a Glance
| Item | Material | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet | Seasoned cast iron | 12 in class | Helper handle; pre-seasoned |
| Le Creuset Signature Skillet | Enameled cast iron | Several sizes; check the listing | Enamel interior and exterior |
| Staub Cast Iron Fry Pan | Enameled cast iron | Check the listing for diameter | Matte black interior |
| Victoria 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet | Seasoned cast iron | 12 in class | Long handle; pre-seasoned |
| Lodge Square Grill Pan | Seasoned cast iron | Check the listing for the size | Raised ridges |
| Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Dutch Oven | Enameled cast iron | 6 qt class | Lid; two loop handles |
The 6 Best Cast Iron Cookware for Induction
1. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, 12 Inch
The classic American skillet, sold pre-seasoned and ready to use. Its magnetic iron body works on induction, and the 12 inch size gives room for a family meal.
Suits: everyday searing and baking. Strengths: a long track record and a low entry cost. Weaknesses: a rough cast surface and real weight. Skip it if you want a polished, lightweight pan.
View Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet on Amazon
2. Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet
An enameled skillet from a French maker known for color and finish. The enamel means no seasoning and a smoother base for glass cooktops.
Suits: cooks who want no seasoning routine. Strengths: enamel finish and a premium build. Weaknesses: a high cost compared with bare iron. Skip it if you want a budget pan.
View Le Creuset Signature Skillet on Amazon
3. Staub Cast Iron Fry Pan
Staub is a French cast iron maker with a textured black enamel interior that is made for browning. It works across gas, electric and induction.
Suits: browning meat and vegetables. Strengths: a textured interior for searing. Weaknesses: weight and a premium cost. Skip it if you want a light pan.
View Staub Cast Iron Fry Pan on Amazon
4. Victoria Cast Iron Skillet, 12 Inch
A cast iron skillet from a Colombian maker with a long handle and a smoother finish than some competitors, sold pre-seasoned.
Suits: those who want a smoother finish. Strengths: an easy-to-hold long handle. Weaknesses: still needs oil care over time. Skip it if you want enamel.
View Victoria 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet on Amazon
5. Lodge Cast Iron Square Grill Pan
A ridged square pan that gives grill marks on a stovetop. Magnetic iron suits induction, though the ridges mean the base is flatter than the cooking surface.
Suits: grill marks indoors. Strengths: ridges that lift food off the base. Weaknesses: cleaning between the ridges. Skip it if you only cook flat-surface foods.
View Lodge Square Grill Pan on Amazon
6. Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6 Quart
A lidded enameled Dutch oven for braising, soup and bread. The enamel means no seasoning, and the iron base works on induction.
Suits: stews, braises and bread. Strengths: a lower cost than French brands. Weaknesses: enamel can chip if struck. Skip it if you want a lighter pot.
View Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Dutch Oven on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Lift heavy cast iron instead of sliding it across glass.
- Keep bare iron lightly oiled after drying.
- Use a medium heat setting; iron holds heat well.
- Let enameled pieces cool before washing.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Dragging a rough base over a glass-ceramic top.
- Heating an empty pan on high.
- Soaking bare cast iron in water.
- Skipping the oil step on seasoned pieces.
Cast Iron Cookware for Induction FAQ
Does all cast iron work on induction?
Cast iron is magnetic, so nearly all of it does. Check that the base is flat.
Will cast iron scratch an induction cooktop?
It can if the base is rough or dragged. Lift pieces and choose smoother bases where you can.
Is enameled cast iron better for induction?
Enameled iron works equally well and has a smoother base, though bare iron is also fine.
The Short Version
For an all-round skillet, the Lodge 12 inch. For enamel, the Le Creuset. For searing, the Staub. For a smoother finish, the Victoria. For grill marks, the Lodge grill pan. For stews, the Lodge enameled Dutch oven.