Whats better than a Cast iron Skillet? A miniature version of it. While they are some mainly used for decorative purpose, they can still be used for other purpose. If you want, you can cook in it, use it as a serving plate or even as a spice storage. Because of its heavy metal construction, its unlikely to shatter like its ceramic counterpart. I have compiled a list of some of the best Mini Cast Iron Cookware around. You will find options from skillets to even gratin pan.

What are Mini Cast Iron Skillet Used For?

As stated before, its mostly for decorative purpose. However, I like to use it as a personal dipping jar. Since its all metal, you can heat it straight on the stove and keep the sauce hot. Melting butter is also another good choice. The heavy metal construction will also keep it hot longer than a ceramic pot.

Another thing that you can do is toast spice to intensify the flavor. By heating it up, you wake up the essential oil and bring a depth of flavor you wouldn’t get otherwise.

Finally, depending on the size, you can either cook eggs or serve individual dish in these pans. Trust me, your guest will love it when you bring them sizzling food. Just be sure to put something on the table so it wont burn it. A towel or a wooden board is a good idea.

What about mini cast iron dutch oven and Gratin

For the mini dutch oven, I like to use them as individual serving jar. You can use them in place of a ramekin or you can bake eggs and bacon in them. I personally love the individual cup sized brownie bits. If you buy a set of 4, they can be a high class spice set jar. Just change the color to coordinate them.

For the gratin pan, use them as individual cobbler set. Great for fruit desert or even shashuka. Not everyone likes sharing.

Health and Safety

There are some health concern that some people may have. Fear not, people have been cooking in cast iron for literally centuries. They are perfectly fine to cook in. Sometimes you might see rust forming, but that is usually due to negligence. Removing it with sandpaper is a cinch and seasoning will help prevent the issue from happening again. Just dont soak it in water for long period of time. I would also caution against using soap when cleaning. The seasoning is crucial for having a long last cookware.

The enamel version of these cookware are generally less fussy. They dont rust and they look beautiful. Since most of the cooking is done via baking, you dont really have to worry about food sticking. Plus, you can soak the inside with water for easy cleaning.

Best Mini Cast Iron Skillet, Dutch Oven and Cookware List

Below, you will find a list of some of the best and most versatile miniature cast iron cookware. Choose one that best suit your need. Their price range from very affordable to hundred dollar plus. I recommend you get one that fits your budget.

Lodge Miniature Skillet, 3.5″, Black (Best Overall)

Lodge Mini Skillet at 3.5 inch is one of the smallest cast iron skillet you can buy. While its cute, it is a bit limited in what it can do. However, it is big enough to serve sauce, cook a egg and even bake brownie in it. Its also really affordable, so you can buy multiple sets for your family and friend.

If you need a bigger more practical one, then Six Inch Model might be better. You can use it as a substitute for a bowl and cook in it as well.

Staub Mini Round Cocotte (Best Mini Cast Iron Dutch Oven)

Staub Mini Cocottes are great for both baking and as a spice jar. There are several different color so its easy to coordinate and match your home decor. Whats best about these set is that they use a enamel coating so that it wont rust like the bare cast iron. However, be forewarned, the price is not for the faint of heart. While buying one might not be a big deal, buying 4 plus is something else.

Lodge 9 Inch Cast Iron Mini Wok (Best Mini Wok)

Want a Wok that can be used as a bowl? Lodge Mini Wok is one of the best in the industry. You can stir fry or make soup in the same bowl. Bring it straight from the stove to the table and your guest will have a hot dinner throughout the meal. No more preheating the plate in the oven.

Lodge Mini Cast Iron, 14 ounce (Best for Serving)

If you hate washing dishes and just want to use the pan, then check out Lodge 14 ounce pan. These thing are perfect for little gratin or small steak or dishes. You can heat it on the stove and use the little handle to transfer it to the table. It has just the right balance of size and volume to serve one guest.

Thoughts

Most people think that miniature cookware are useless. Its quite the contrary, you can use it as storage or even as serving plate. The bare cast iron models are great if you have a cabin or just want a rustic look. You can even use them as a serving platter to keep food warm. The enamel one are great for storage or just using it as a ramekin. Best of all, its all metal so it wont shatter like ceramic will. If you can afford it, I highly recommend getting one.

Want more information on the winning mini dutch oven. Then check out our article on Staub Mini Cocotte.