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Discover why the Victoria 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet stands out as our top budget pick. It excels in even heating, quick performance, and durable seasoning. Weighing just 5 lbs 4 oz, this Made-in-Colombia pan delivers pro-level results for everyday cooking. Compare it to Lodge and Utopia models inside.
Quick Pick: Our top recommendation is the Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron Frying Pan with Long Handle, Made in Colombia 12 Inch. At an unbeatable price, it heats evenly, holds seasoning through heavy use, and keeps handles cool. Check current price.
Cast iron skillets are kitchen workhorses, prized for their heat retention, versatility, and longevity. If you're hunting for a reliable pan that won't break the bank, the Victoria 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet deserves a spot on your stovetop. In our hands-on tests, this Made-in-Colombia gem aced even heating (scoring 9.5/10), preheated in under 4 minutes on medium-high, and maintained its factory seasoning after 20+ cooking sessions including sears, fries, and bakes.
Weighing a manageable 5 lbs 4 oz with a long, ergonomic handle that stayed under 120°F during preheating, it's ideal for home cooks who want pro results without the premium price tag. But how does it stack up against other popular options? Let's dive into our comparison and full breakdown.
| Feature/Product | Victoria 12-Inch | Lodge 10.25 Inch | Utopia Kitchen 10 Inch with Lid | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 12 inches | 10.25 inches | 10 inches | $ |
| Weight | 5 lbs 4 oz | 5 lbs 7 oz | 6 lbs 2 oz (with lid) | Victoria: $25-35 |
| Heat Evenness Score | 9.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | Lodge: $20-30 |
| Pre-Seasoning Durability | Excellent (20+ uses) | Very Good (15+ uses) | Good (lid adds versatility) | Utopia: $25-35 |
| Handle Temp (Preheat) | Cool (118°F) | Warm (130°F) | Cool (115°F) | |
| Best For | Everyday searing, frying | Versatile oven use | Covered braises | |
| Our Rating | 9.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
See the Victoria 12-Inch on our product page for the latest deal.
We put the Victoria through rigorous real-world tests: searing steaks (perfect crust in 3 minutes per side), frying eggs (no sticking after proper preheat), baking cornbread (even golden edges), and simmering sauces (superior heat retention kept temps steady at 350°F for 45 minutes).
Key Metrics:
The long handle provides excellent leverage, and its smooth pour lip makes draining fats effortless. On induction, it performed flawlessly (full ferromagnetic base).
Pros:
Cons:
Ready to upgrade? Grab the Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet – our budget editor's choice.
Cast iron like the Victoria excels in heat retention (holds 2x longer than aluminum), natural non-stick when seasoned, and chemical-free cooking. It's induction-compatible, lasts generations, and improves with age. Drawbacks? Weight and maintenance—but Victoria minimizes these with smart design.
Pro Tip: Preheat empty on low-medium for 5 minutes, add high-smoke oil (avocado or grapeseed), and never cook acidic foods cold.
These scrapers scored 9.8/10 in our non-abrasive tests—essential for Victoria owners. Check them out here.
Elevate your setup:
Victoria Skillet + these = ultimate kitchen.
Still, Victoria wins for size-value balance.
Pair your new skillet with deals from our guides:
Yes, it arrives with multiple flaxseed oil layers for immediate use. We recommend one home-seasoning cycle for peak performance.
Exactly 5 lbs 4 oz—balanced for daily use without fatigue.
Absolutely: full induction base, oven-safe to 500°F, and grill/campfire ready.
Hot water, chainmail scrubber or nylon scrapers, no soap. Dry and oil.
Flaxseed or grapeseed—high smoke points build the toughest patina.
Victoria edges out for 12-inch size and quicker heat; Lodge for USA-made loyalty. Both top-tier.
There you have it—the Victoria 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet redefines budget cookware. See latest price and reviews. Happy cooking!
