Lodge 9"x13" Cast Iron Casserole

Everyone loves cast iron these days and in the USA people love Lodge for the affordability and availability the brand has in stores like Wal-Mart, Cracker Barrel and Bass Pro. Every camping and sports store will have these products. Lately the company has been making fun things for specific purposes. Woks, casseroles, pizzas and fajitas all have products now. The questions though should be considered? 1) How often will you use it? Specific products might take up space and not get used. Cast iron needs to be cared for and oiled. If this is destined to sit somewhere collecting dust and rust before making an appearance once a year at Thanksgiving it might not be a good addition in the kitchen. Skillets and dutch ovens you already own can be used for casseroles. 2) Is it safe? No. This is dangerous. One thing you don't always consider is the weight of cast iron. This casserole dish is extremely heavy. If you have arthritis, carpal tunnel or weak grip this is not an easy product to lift. It can be dropped and cause injury to a toe or foot. The pan also has short handles and when removing it from the oven at higher temps it is very easy to burn yourself, especially on the forearm, hands or fingers. Don't trust things will be okay. Be over prepared with oven mits on both hands. If you have a heavy roast be confident you can carry it. 3) It is it a good value? Yes. This is an incredible value. Lodge is well known for being reasonable in price but strong in quality. It will last forever. It cooks superbly and has many uses. These are great in smokers, for brownies, lasagna and enchiladas. The food tastes better in cast iron. If you are a casserole person with great strength and patience for safety this is a wonderful value as no more broken glass casserole dishes on the floor to sweep up ever again! 4) Is there a better option? Yes and maybe. Dutch ovens are easier to hold and move. With a lot they also work better outdoors. They also work well for casseroles. I'm not sure there is a great argument for this product when the other is more versatile. If you own a Lodge Skillet and Dutch Oven you probably don't need this. If you camp this offers no benefit over other products. If you are a cast iron enthusiast or have a unique need like a Green Egg or smoker this would stand up better than other casserole products this is for you. I love mine for deep dish pizza, enchiladas and oven frying breaded chicken breasts. It makes a wonderful meatloaf and roasted chicken with vegetables. Baked hams and roasted are exceptional but I wouldn't want my wife to lift it out of the oven on her own. She's tough but this is hard to hold with smaller handles and extra weight it would be a horrible trip to the ER for burn care if she were to lose her grip. Lodge is wonderful and keep in mind everyone has different needs and physical strength. Consider your own situation and this might be the best addition to your collection. It sure makes me happy. Happy cooking! Be safe.

Excellent product

Brilliant pan for high heat use in my pizza oven

Excelente todo lo de Lodge siempre ha sido con muy buenos estándares de calidad

Great quality perfect if you are a cast iron cook