10 Best Spatulas for Cast Iron
If you own a cast iron skillet or pan, you know that these things produce some incredible dishes. We love them for their versatility in cooking, affordability, and great sturdiness.
But what cooking utensils should you use for working with cast iron?
You may be wondering, do I go with metal, wood or should I try a silicone spatula? What are the benefits of the different spatula materials, how do they affect cooking, and how does your pan react to them?
If you want to find out what are the best spatulas for cast iron or learn a bit more about the questions above, you are at the right place.
Let’s dive in.
Product | Details |
HIC Dexter-Russell Pancake Turner   | Best Stainless Steel
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Daily Kitchen Silicone Spatula   | Best Silicone
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Anmarko Professional Spatula Set   | Best Spatula Set
|
New Star Foodservice 36299   | Best Budget
|
MANNKITCHEN Stainless Steel Spatula   |
|
Mercer Culinary Turner/Spatula   |
|
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Turner   |
|
Home Hero Silicone Spatula   |
|
Rivexy 5 Stainless Steel Spatula Set   |
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Rivexy 5 Stainless Steel Spatula Set   |
|
Top 10 Best Spatulas For Cast Iron
After countless hours of thorough research, we proudly present you with this top 10 list so that you can find the best spatula for cast iron.
Best Stainless Steel Spatulas For Cast Iron
HIC Harold Import Co. Dexter-Russell Pancake Turner
Dimensions: 2.5” x 1.75” x 10.5”
Weight: 2.8 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Handle: Walnut
It’s no secret that stainless steel is the best material for spatulas for cast iron. But since it’s availability is so high many people end up scratching their heads on what model to choose.
We think we figured that one out. HIC Dexter-Russell is in our opinion the best stainless steel and best overall spatula for cast iron available.
This product simply ticks all the boxes. It is made from stainless steel, has a strong walnut handle, has almost no flex, and possesses a flat edge.
If you ever owned and worked with a plastic spatula, this would be the perfect upgrade. The weight and solid build of this spatula will provide you with a professional cooking experience.
The blade has very little flex despite being relatively thin which means you will have no problem sliding it under any food you might be cooking but at the same time having no problems making smash burgers or any other food that requires greater pressure to be applied.
The stainless steel used for this spatula is of utmost quality and will last very long. Many people have reported that this is their number one kitchen tool and that they couldn’t imagine working in the kitchen without it again. This handy utensil has been on the market since 2009 and has been the best seller ever since.
Pros:
- Made of high quality carbon steel
- Has a sturdy wooden handle
- Size is very versatile
- Has little to no flex despite a thin blade
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- It’s on the pricier side of spatulas
Verdict
If you own cast iron cookware this is a must-have. It has all the features you want in a spatula and it’s built to last. Sure, it’s a bit expensive for a spatula, but well worth the price for the features you get. It’s been on the market for 10+ years and won’t be going away anytime soon, which speaks of the quality and consistency this product and manufacturer has. We can safely say that this USA made spatula is something to be proud of having in your kitchen.
MANNKITCHEN Professional Grade Stainless Steel Spatula
Dimensions: 11.5″ x 2.85″ x 1.5″
Weight: 1.12 oz
Material: 420 Stainless Steel
Handle: Hardwood
This high-quality spatula is made specifically for cast iron skillets. You can see that the manufacturer did their homework and included every possible feature that a high-quality spatula for cast iron should have.
The blade is very thick and is made of 1.8mm thick 420 stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion and rust. This means that the blade has literally no flex and will be able to handle any amount of pressure you put on it. High-quality steel also increases the durability of this product, we are certain it will last for years even with frequent use.
Handle of this spatula is made of sturdy wood which is something you always want in any spatula since it is more durable, resistant to heat, and won’t melt like plastic spatulas.
One more indicator that MANNKITCHEN knows it’s stuff is the flat edge they implemented on the blade of the utensil. This feature allows you to get that nonstick coating much faster than with most of the spatulas. This also helps even leveling when using this spatula and makes you get a leveled smooth surface over time.
Pros:
- Made specifically for cast iron pans
- Very thick 420 stainless steel blade
- Flat edge intended for better leveling
- Single piece wooden handle
Cons:
- Very expensive
Verdict
While most people have never spent more than 5 bucks on a single cooking tool we feel that you get what you pay for, and you get a LOT from this MANNKITCHEN spatula. If you want a carefree experience when working with your cast iron skillet this is the spatula for you. Durability, sturdiness, and ease of use are the attributes of this tool. If you want pure quality and if you are not afraid to spend more, get this spatula. You won’t be disappointed.
New Star Foodservice 36299 Wood Handle Heavy Duty Hamburger Turner
Dimensions: 11.5″ x 3″ x 1″
Weight: 6.7 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Handle: Wood
Want to get the best bang for your buck? In that case, this spatula is for you.
It has all the features of the more expensive models only at the lower price. You get a wooden handle, which is what you want for your spatula as previously mentioned. It features a stainless steel blade that surprisingly has very little flex and can be easily used for smash burgers which is something not expected at this price point.
The spatula is also very thick and feels pretty sturdy since it’s heavy, but you won’t have any problems working with it as it’s not too heavy to use.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and roses. As expected, the steel used for this spatula is not on a par with more expensive models. Some customers have reported that even though the blade flexes very little, sometimes when bent doesn’t quite come back in shape.
These drawbacks are expected for the price point and are in our opinion acceptable. The features of this spatula overshadow a few disadvantages, and we feel that for most people this spatula will be sufficient.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Sturdy and thick spatula
- Wooden handle
Cons:
- Metal used is not the best
Verdict
This is in our opinion the best budget stainless steel spatula for cast iron on the market. You won’t be short on any of the features if you buy this spatula, although the quality won’t be the same as in higher priced models. If you don’t feel like giving $20+ for a single spatula this is your best bet.
Mercer Culinary Hell's Handle Heavy Duty Turner/Spatula
Dimensions: 11″ x 5″ x 2″
Weight: 11.5 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Handle: Plastic
Here is another sturdy and high quality stainless steel spatula on our list. This utensil is a bit larger than your usual stainless steel models and is perfect for smash burgers as many reviews suggest.
You may be wondering, why does this expensive high-quality spatula have a plastic handle? Good question. As mentioned earlier, wood is a preferable material for a spatula handle since it doesn’t melt or heat up as much as plastic. But plastic used for the handle of this spatula is not a standard one as seen on many cheaper models. It’s not lightweight and absorbs 50% less heat than regular plastic. The reason the manufacturer decided to go with plastic for the handle is because of the improved grip and better control it provides.
So they managed to accomplish two things. They made a better grip with plastic than most of the wooden handles out there, but also have managed to make it heat much less to be able to compete with wooden models. Very innovative and advanced feature if you ask us.
Stainless steel used in this model is great. It is a heavy-duty stainless steel, so you can cook pretty much anything with it. The blade is thick and stiff, it has no flex whatsoever. You will have no problem smoothing out the surface of your cast iron pan with this spatula in no time.
This is one of the few spatulas that have a limited lifetime warranty. It might not sound like much but it’s still a nice bonus in case something unexpected happens.
Pros:
- High-quality stainless steel blade
- Very robust and durable
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Perfect for smash burgers
Cons:
- Expensive
Verdict
This is a professional-grade, durable spatula that will last a lifetime. It’s large, sturdy, and made of high quality materials. We would have liked a wooden handle but in this case, plastic is acceptable because of the ingenious way manufacturer overcame this with the use of special plastic. It is one of the more expensive models on the market but in this case, quality justifies the price tag. This spatula is a smart investment and will give you a unique cooking experience.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Turner
Dimensions: 12.63″ x 3.25″ x 0.88″
Weight: 4.8 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Handle: Plastic
This spatula is another affordable option that offers great features. OXO is a well-known name when it comes to kitchen utensils. They are known for the quality and durability of their products. This one is no exception.
It comes with a handy hanging hole that is oversized which makes it easy to store. It is made of thick stainless steel and should be able to handle any type of food. The steel is of very high quality and is comparable to more expensive models despite it’s lower price point.
Many customers have reported that this is the “perfectly sized” spatula. Not too thick, big or small, they have commended its ease of use and convenience.
There are a few negatives though. This spatula has a round scraping edge which makes it have uneven surface contact and that is something many people dislike.
Handle is made of plastic which is not desirable and makes it easier to melt or overheat in a short amount of time. This is of course expected at this price point and is something you shouldn’t worry about if you don’t leave your spatula resting on the edge of the pan or pot.
One positive about the plastic handle, in this case, is the improved grip. This handle has flexible rubber fins that make it harder to slip.
Pros:
- Made of high-quality stainless steel
- Very balanced / fits most people needs
- Storage is easy with a hanging hole
- Comfortable grip
- Affordable
Cons:
- Rounded scraping edge
- Plastic handle
Verdict
This spatula offers quality in many aspects that none of the competitors offer at this price point. Heavy-duty stainless steel, sturdy build, and a nice grip are well worth the price. If you’re not keen on spending extra money on a spatula but want something durable, go for this one.
Best Silicone Spatula For Cast Iron
Daily Kitchen Heat Resistant Silicone Spatula
Dimensions: 14.5″ x 3.25″ x 2″
Weight: 6.4 oz
Material: Silicone
Handle: Silicone
If you are not a fan of metal kitchen tools then silicone might be your best bet. It is in our opinion the next best thing when it comes to utensils for cast iron. Silicone spatulas are generally cheaper than stainless steel models, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t high quality, durable models on the market like this one from Daily Kitchen.
The materials used for this spatula are of very high standard. Strong stainless steel core supports this spatula. Silicone handle gives you a better grip and makes it less slippery. Silicone has very good resistance to high temperatures and is a great alternative to plastic handles found in most of the spatulas that tend to melt very easily.
The blade is hard, so you won’t have any problems dealing with larger food but also flexible enough to be able to slide under food which is something that cheaper options have trouble with.
Another advantage of this spatula is its versatility. It can be used on any type of cookware without scratching the protective layer. This is perhaps the biggest advantage of silicone utensils and that’s why we advise everyone to get them. You will need their flexibility when working with different types of cookware.
This spatula comes with a 100% money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with this product which is a nice addition.
Pros:
- High-quality materials
- Silicone handle
- Stainless steel core
- Money-back guarantee
Cons:
- A little pricey
Verdict
If you want a quality, durable silicone spatula for cast iron go for this one. It is slightly more expensive than other silicone spatulas, and rightly so. It’s currently the best option on the market. You will love how versatile this utensil is, it is a very handy tool to have. If you need a silicone spatula (and who doesn’t) this is THE choice.
Home Hero Silicone Spatula
Dimensions: 13.19″ x 3.5″ x 1.69″
Weight: 4.6 oz
Material: Silicone
Handle: Wood
If durability and quality of production is something you value then Home Hero’s silicone spatula is the right choice for you.
It has all the features you want to have in a silicone spatula. It is very sturdy and strong enough to handle any food. The silicone is able to withstand high temperatures and is very easy to clean.
Wooden handle is a really nice touch and is something you rarely see on a silicone spatula. It further prevents overheating and gives better control when handling the spatula while also increasing its durability.
Some customers have reported that the angle of the spatula was a bit off. They said that the spatula is bent more than usual so it might take some time to adjust to using it.
This is one of the latest silicone spatulas released on Amazon and has a lot of rave reviews, although we are yet to see how will this spatula stand the test of time.
Pros:
- Very sturdy and durable
- Wooden handle
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Angle of the spatula is unusual
Verdict
This spatula has some unique and interesting features that add to its value. Hardwood handle alone is a very strong reason to get this spatula as this is not something usually found at this price point. If you don’t mind the slightly awkward bend this spatula has it is a great choice and will be a valuable asset to any kitchen.
Best Spatula Set For Cast Iron
Anmarko Professional Spatula Set
Dimensions: 14.76″ x 4.33″ x 1.97″
Weight: 1.46 pounds
Material: Stainless steel
Handle: Wood
Do you want a quality stainless steel spatula but also want to be flexible and make any dish with ease? If so, this spatula set is ideal for you.
With it, you can turn pancakes and be the master of the grill, but also scrape up any mess you left during your cooking sessions.
In this superb pack you get 3 types of spatulas. Cooking spatula turner, griddle scraper, and grill spatula. This pack should be sufficient for any cast iron cooking or grilling action you might be up to.
Dimensions of the spatulas are the following:
⦁ Cooking spatula turner – 4×8 inch
⦁ Grill spatula – 3×8 inch
⦁ Griddle scraper – 3×5 inch
The quality of the spatulas is top-notch. Stainless steel used is very thick and highly durable. It is up to par with the most expensive models and is one of the best we’ve seen. The edges are beveled and should with ease slide under pancakes or eggs.
Handles of all the spatulas are made of wood to top of the overall quality of these utensils. We can’t really find anything to fault them for.
On top of all this set is highly affordable, and when we compare the price and the quality of every individual spatula to other options on the market we can only conclude that this set is simply spectacular.
Pros:
- Thick, sturdy stainless steel
- Beveled edges
- Wooden handles
- Great value for price
Cons:
- We couldn’t find any
Verdict
We love this spatula set! It offers excellent value for the price. Features are of the highest quality and every part was carefully selected. This set has great versatility and will hold up to any task you may have when working with your cast iron cookware. It is in our opinion the number 1 choice for a spatula set for cast iron. You can’t go wrong with this set.
Rivexy 5 Stainless Steel Spatula Set
Dimensions: 14.8″ x 4.7″ x 2.8″
Weight: 2.25 pounds
Material: Stainless steel
Handle: Plastic
This rivexy spatula set is what you call an all-round kitchen utensil set.
It consists of:
- Barbecue turner – 9.9 x 4.5 inch
- Perforated spatula – 14 x 3 inch
- Pancake flipper – 11 x 3 inch
- Griddle scraper – 3 x 6 inch
- Solid Spatula – 14 x 3 inch
Despite being extremely cheap this set isn’t bad at all in terms of quality. Stainless steel used for the spatulas is solid and durable. The blade is sturdy. Edges of the blades are sharp and will be able to chop food with ease.
The set also looks very contemporary and will fit nicely in any type of kitchen.
Handles are made of plastic which is a bummer but definitely expected when the price is this low. On a positive note, the grip of this handle is nice and you can wash it in a dishwasher, unlike some wooden handle models.
Affordability is the main advantage of this set. You get more from it than from any other set.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- 5 piece versatile set
- Great quality for the price
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Plastic handles
Verdict
This set gets you a high quantity of solid spatulas for little money. Yes, the quality isn’t the best but you really can’t expect anything more with this price tag, can you? They get the job done and are in respect to price very fair in terms of quality. In the end, you get what you pay for and if you don’t need anything fancy and want to get a lot of useful but inexpensive spatulas then this is the set for you.
Di Oro Chef Series 3-Piece Silicone Turner Spatula Set
Dimensions: 14.5″ x 6.5″ x 2.5″
Weight: 13.4 oz
Material: Stainless Steel and Silicone
Handle: Thermoplastic Rubber
A silicon spatula is very versatile by itself and with a set of 3 spatulas, you can do even more!
This set includes 3 spatulas: standard turner spatula, round turner Spatula, and long angled turner spatula.
Dimensions of the spatulas and blades are the following:
⦁ Standard Turner Spatula – 11.8″ in length / blade – 4.5 x 3 inch
⦁ Round Turner Spatula – 12.2″ in length / blade – 5 x 6 inch
⦁ Long Angled Turner Spatula – 14.2″ in length / blade – 6 x 4 inch
This set was created with quality in mind. High standard heat resistant silicone is used for these spatulas so you shouldn’t experience any overheating problems whatsoever. This type of silicone can withstand temperatures of up to 600°F.
The silicone is bonded to sturdy stainless steel which gives these spatulas a solid build and durability. These spatulas are very easy to clean since they can be both hand washed or put in a dishwasher.
One thing we don’t fancy are handles. They are made of Thermoplastic Rubber which is a material that contains both rubber and plastic. It is a durable and lightweight material that makes handling the spatulas easier. So what’s the problem with this material? The problem is that this material tends to melt easier than silicone and shouldn’t be left resting on the edge of the pan as it would easily melt.
This isn’t a huge deal breaker but is something to pay attention to so you can avoid unwanted problems.
Pros:
- High-quality silicone and stainless steel
- Great design
- Easy to Wash
Cons:
- Handles can melt when rested on edge of the pan
Verdict
High-quality materials and great design is what makes these spatulas stand out. The 3 different sizes makes them suitable for any task that requires spatulas. The only downside is the handle, but considering that this set has much more desirable features than the ones we don’t like, this flaw can be overlooked and managed with proper caution.
What to look for when buying a spatula for cast iron?
There are several things you should look for when choosing a spatula for cast iron. Everything from handle to blade will be covered in the following section so you can choose the best spatula for your cast iron cookware.
Material
Stainless steel is the best material for cast iron. Period.
It is essential for developing that smooth surface we all long for in our cast iron skillets.
When you season the pan and work with your stainless steel spatula the surface smoothes out naturally.
Only other materials that can be considered for use with cast iron is silicone. It’s the next best thing.
The advantage of having silicone utensils is that you can not only use them for your cast iron cookware but also for any type of cookware including pans with sensitive protective layer that would be scratched if metal spatulas were used.
You can use wooden or nylon spatulas as well but they are in our opinion not as effective as metal and silicone spatulas. Plastic spatulas should be avoided when working with cast iron as they melt easily.
Handle
Handle is a very important factor when choosing a spatula for cast iron.
You will want something sturdy and durable but also something that’s comfortable and has a good grip and control.
You will also want to make sure that the handle can withstand high temperatures and not melt when experiencing high heat.
Wood is our recommendation when it comes to handles. It is strong, durable, and handles heat with ease.
Plastic is something that should be avoided if possible but since it is the most common material used for handles you don’t want to obsess over looking for alternatives.
There are solid heatless plastic options for handles that work well. Just make sure you don’t get the cheap ones and you will be fine.
Cleaning
Who likes to clean tons of utensils after cooking? That’s right, no one.
That’s why it’s important to choose spatulas that can be easily hand cleaned or washed in a dishwasher.
Some spatulas with wooden handles can’t be washed in a dishwasher so that’s something to look out if you don’t like to hand wash.
Most plastic and silicone spatulas can be easily washed in a dishwasher, so for cleaning, they tend to be the better option.
FAQ
Is it safe to use a metal spatula on cast iron?
Contrary to popular beliefs, metal spatulas don’t hurt your skillet. Before the modern plastic spatula, most of the cooking utensils were made of metal.
Plastic became popular because of the cheaper production cost, but metal is still around and for a reason. Don’t be afraid to use your metal spatula on cast iron. Cast iron is a very sturdy material, you will need much more than a metal spatula to hurt it.
Should I get rounded or a flat edge spatula?
We recommend getting a flat edge spatula because when using a flat edge spatula the entire edge is in contact with food and cooking surface as opposed to rounded edge spatulas that are not entirely in contact with food or cooking surface.
How does a smooth surface form on a cast iron pan?
Cast iron has a bit of a rough surface but by seasoning the pan and working with a metal spatula over time that rough surface naturally smoothes out. The oil polymerizes and is no longer oil. It becomes a plastic-like material that is very durable and cannot be scraped off even with metal. It is also resistant to soap and water.
Wrap Up
That about covers it for everything you need to know about spatulas for cast iron.
We hope that you have gathered all the necessary information so that you can purchase the best spatula for your cast iron cookware.
