50+ Mouthwatering Cast Iron Dinner Recipes You Need to Try

Cast iron cookware is renowned for its versatility, durability, and ability to retain heat, making it an essential tool for any home chef.

Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight meal or a special dinner for friends and family, cast iron skillets and Dutch ovens are perfect for creating hearty, flavorful dishes.

Cast iron dinners can be as easy as a one-pan meal or as intricate as a slow-cooked stew, and they offer endless possibilities for any taste preference.

With its superior heat distribution, cast iron allows your dishes to cook evenly and develop that perfect crispy crust, while maintaining moisture and tenderness.

In this article, we’re going to explore over 50 delicious cast iron dinner recipes, showcasing everything from savory chicken and steak to pasta bakes, seafood dishes, and even vegetable-forward meals.

Get ready to add some new, flavorful recipes to your dinner rotation, all while utilizing the incredible cooking power of your trusty cast iron skillet or Dutch oven.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these recipes will inspire you to harness the true potential of your cast iron cookware for perfectly cooked, mouthwatering meals.

50+ Mouthwatering Cast Iron Dinner Recipes You Need to Try

With so many recipes to choose from, cast iron cooking offers an exciting and rewarding experience.

The ability to sear, sauté, bake, and braise with a single piece of cookware makes it ideal for creating meals that are not only flavorful but also easy to prepare.

From sizzling steaks to rich pastas and comforting stews, the possibilities with cast iron are endless.

These 50+ cast iron dinner recipes will inspire you to explore new cooking techniques, experiment with different ingredients, and create dishes that will impress your family and friends.

So, pull out your cast iron skillet and get ready to cook up something special tonight—your taste buds will thank you!

Cast Iron Skillet Chicken and Vegetables

This simple yet flavorful one-pan meal brings together juicy chicken thighs, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked in a cast iron skillet. The key to this recipe is searing the chicken to perfection, allowing the vegetables to absorb the chicken’s savory juices, creating a rich and satisfying dinner that requires minimal prep and cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Season chicken thighs with paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
4. Flip the chicken and add the sliced onion, carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini around the chicken.
5. Sprinkle minced garlic and thyme over the vegetables.
6. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, bring it to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
7. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
8. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

This Cast Iron Skillet Chicken and Vegetables recipe is an easy, one-pan dinner that packs a lot of flavor with minimal effort. The cast iron skillet ensures that the chicken gets a perfect crispy skin while allowing the vegetables to soak up all the delicious juices, making it a hearty and wholesome meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for one, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Cast Iron Beef Stroganoff

A rich, creamy, and comforting dish, Cast Iron Beef Stroganoff combines tender beef slices with a luscious mushroom and onion gravy, all finished off with a dollop of sour cream. The cast iron skillet helps sear the beef beautifully while ensuring that the sauce develops a deep, savory flavor. Perfect for chilly nights when you crave a decadent and hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Egg noodles or rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef strips with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the beef to the skillet and sear until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until softened.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the beef broth and Dijon mustard, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Lower the heat and return the beef to the skillet, stirring in the sour cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

This Cast Iron Beef Stroganoff brings an indulgent, creamy texture to a classic dish. The beef is tender and perfectly seared, while the sauce is rich with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the tang of Dijon and sour cream. Paired with egg noodles or rice, this dish is a luxurious dinner that feels like a treat but is easy enough for a weeknight meal. The cast iron skillet ensures that every bite is packed with deep flavor.

Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp and Grits

A Southern classic, Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp and Grits combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, all cooked in a seasoned cast iron skillet. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned and seared, then served over a bed of smooth, buttery grits. This dish is perfect for those who crave a comforting, flavorful, and filling dinner, bringing the best of Southern cuisine to your table in one pan.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 3 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook, covered, for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Once the grits are cooked and thickened, stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Keep warm.
3. Meanwhile, heat butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and cook for another minute to deglaze the skillet.
6. Serve the shrimp over the creamy grits, garnished with fresh parsley.

Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp and Grits is a Southern comfort food at its best—creamy, buttery grits topped with flavorful shrimp cooked in a savory garlic and spice sauce. The cast iron skillet locks in all the flavors, making this dish a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or looking to indulge in something comforting, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy grits and tender shrimp make the perfect pairing for a deliciously memorable dinner.

Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs and Marinara

This Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs and Marinara recipe takes the classic Italian comfort food and elevates it with the unique flavor of cooking in a cast iron skillet. The meatballs are perfectly browned on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Paired with a rich, garlicky marinara sauce, this dish is ideal for serving with spaghetti or as a sub sandwich filling. It’s an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
• Cooked spaghetti, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then form into 16-20 meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once browned, pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked through.
6. Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti, and garnish with fresh basil.

This Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs and Marinara recipe is a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of Italy to your table. Cooking the meatballs in the cast iron skillet ensures they get a perfect sear, while the oven finish makes them juicy and tender. The marinara sauce adds a rich, savory depth, making it the perfect companion to pasta or even a hearty sub sandwich. Whether you’re serving family or guests, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Cast Iron Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze

Cast Iron Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze offers a delicious combination of savory and sweet flavors. The pork chops are seared in a hot cast iron skillet for a crispy crust, then finished in the oven with a tangy apple cider glaze that perfectly complements the richness of the pork. This dish is perfect for fall dinners or any time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Pour the apple cider mixture over the pork chops in the skillet and bring it to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the butter until the glaze becomes smooth and glossy.
8. Serve the pork chops with the apple cider glaze drizzled over the top.

Cast Iron Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with the pork chops retaining their juiciness while being infused with the rich flavors of the apple cider glaze. The cast iron skillet ensures the pork gets a crispy sear, while the oven finish ensures even cooking. The apple cider glaze is fragrant with fall spices and adds a tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the pork. This dish is simple yet elegant and makes for an unforgettable dinner.

Cast Iron Baked Ziti

Cast Iron Baked Ziti is a comforting and cheesy Italian-American classic that’s easy to make in a single pan. The pasta is cooked directly in the cast iron skillet with a flavorful marinara sauce, then topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before being baked until golden and bubbly. This hearty dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, making it a go-to weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and dollop the ricotta cheese over the pasta mixture.
7. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the pasta.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve.

Cast Iron Baked Ziti is a delicious and filling dish that’s both easy and satisfying. The combination of tender pasta, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese is a classic that’s always a hit. The cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution and the perfect crispy edges around the cheese. This dish is great for a family dinner, a potluck, or even as a make-ahead meal for the week. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Cast Iron Chicken Fajitas

Cast Iron Chicken Fajitas are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Tender strips of chicken are marinated with bold spices and then seared in a hot cast iron skillet, along with bell peppers and onions. The result is a sizzling, aromatic dish that’s perfect for serving in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Warm tortillas, for serving
• Sour cream, salsa, and guacamole, for toppings

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss the chicken strips in the spice mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, toss everything together, and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the chicken and vegetables in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Cast Iron Chicken Fajitas are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, quick, and easy dinner. The cast iron skillet helps to achieve a perfect sear on the chicken and vegetables, while the spice blend adds a nice kick of flavor. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with various toppings and sauces, making it a great meal for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual weeknight dinner, these fajitas are sure to be a hit.

Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp Scampi

Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp Scampi is a seafood lover’s dream. Succulent shrimp are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, with a hint of lemon and white wine, all within the cast iron skillet. This dish is quick to prepare and makes for an elegant dinner that feels restaurant-quality, yet can be made in the comfort of your own home. Serve it over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Add the white wine to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and cook for an additional minute.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle the shrimp scampi with fresh parsley, and serve over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp Scampi is an easy yet luxurious dish that delivers on flavor. The shrimp is perfectly cooked in a rich and aromatic butter sauce, infused with garlic, lemon, and white wine. The cast iron skillet gives it that extra level of sear and flavor depth. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress with minimal effort. Paired with pasta or bread, it’s a meal that’s bound to satisfy.

Cast Iron Skillet Baked Chicken and Rice

Cast Iron Skillet Baked Chicken and Rice is a one-pan dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying. Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are seared in the cast iron skillet, then baked with seasoned rice for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal. The rice absorbs the savory juices from the chicken, while the crispy skin adds a delightful texture contrast. It’s an ideal dinner for busy nights when you want something hearty without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and carrot, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Add the rice, chicken broth, dried thyme, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice and cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
8. Remove from the oven and stir in the frozen peas. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Cast Iron Skillet Baked Chicken and Rice is the epitome of comfort food, with crispy, juicy chicken paired with flavorful rice. The one-pan cooking method ensures that the rice absorbs all the savory flavors from the chicken, making every bite delicious. This dish is perfect for busy nights or meal prepping, and the versatility of ingredients allows for easy substitutions. With minimal clean-up and maximum flavor, it’s a guaranteed family favorite.

Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs with Marinara

Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs with Marinara is a hearty and flavorful dinner that’s both simple and satisfying. Juicy, homemade meatballs are seared in a cast iron skillet, then simmered in a rich marinara sauce for a comforting, Italian-inspired dish. This one-pan wonder can be served with pasta, crusty bread, or even over rice for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you’re craving a taste of classic Italian cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned and crispy. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
4. In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve the meatballs over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping.

Cast Iron Skillet Meatballs with Marinara is a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The cast iron skillet ensures even cooking, allowing the meatballs to get crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. The marinara sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the meatballs. This dish is incredibly versatile, perfect with pasta, bread, or even served in a sub for a delicious meatball sandwich. It’s comfort food at its best!

Cast Iron Steak with Garlic Herb Butter

A perfectly seared steak served with a rich garlic herb butter is a dinner that never disappoints. Cast Iron Steak with Garlic Herb Butter takes a high-quality steak and elevates it to something extraordinary. The cast iron skillet allows for a delicious, crispy crust, while the garlic butter adds richness and flavor. This dish is ideal for special occasions, but it’s simple enough for a weeknight treat. Serve it with your favorite sides for a truly indulgent meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steaks to the pan. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a rich brown crust forms.
4. Add the softened butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks while they cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the steaks for 4-6 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness.
6. Remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cast Iron Steak with Garlic Herb Butter is the ultimate indulgence for steak lovers. The cast iron skillet provides the perfect sear, while the garlic herb butter takes the steak to a whole new level of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dish is a winner. Pair it with a simple salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that feels like a five-star experience at home.

Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Alfredo

Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, rich, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Tender chicken is cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet and paired with a velvety Alfredo sauce, all topped off with Parmesan cheese. The skillet ensures that everything is cooked evenly, while the sauce clings perfectly to the chicken and pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is great for a weeknight meal and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta, cooked and drained
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the cream to reduce slightly.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg (if using), continuing to cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Slice the cooked chicken and add it back into the skillet, along with the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Alfredo is a rich and creamy dinner that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, a luscious Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a truly satisfying meal. Using a cast iron skillet ensures that the flavors are melded together beautifully, and the easy cleanup makes this dish even more appealing. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special date night, this recipe will make you feel like you’re dining at a top-tier restaurant.

Cast Iron Chicken and Vegetable Skillet

Cast Iron Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is a simple, one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken breasts with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner. The cast iron skillet helps to achieve a crispy, golden exterior on the chicken, while the vegetables cook to tender perfection, absorbing all the savory flavors. It’s a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that’s great for busy weeknights, offering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to coat the vegetables in the pan drippings.
5. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the vegetables.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cast Iron Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is a flavorful, all-in-one dinner that’s perfect for families or anyone looking to make a quick and healthy meal. The crispy chicken pairs beautifully with the tender roasted vegetables, creating a well-balanced dish that’s both comforting and nourishing. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless vegetable swaps, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand. It’s the kind of meal that’s satisfying, simple, and easy to clean up afterward!

Cast Iron Shrimp and Grits

Cast Iron Shrimp and Grits is a Southern classic that brings together the bold flavors of perfectly cooked shrimp, creamy grits, and a rich, savory sauce. The cast iron skillet provides even heat, ensuring the shrimp are seared to perfection, while the grits are made creamy and decadent. This dish is full of flavor and ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions, offering a comforting taste of the South in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grits (stone-ground)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the grits, reduce the heat, and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes, until the grits are thick and creamy. Stir in the butter and cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
2. While the grits are cooking, heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, stirring to combine.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the sauce thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To serve, spoon the creamy grits onto plates, top with shrimp, and drizzle with the garlic cream sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Cast Iron Shrimp and Grits is a flavorful, rich dish that brings the best of Southern cuisine to your table. The creamy, cheesy grits complement the perfectly seared shrimp, while the garlic cream sauce adds a velvety finish. This dish is indulgent yet comforting, making it perfect for both a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The cast iron skillet ensures an even cook and retains heat, keeping everything warm and delicious. Once you try this dish, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite.

Cast Iron Baked Ziti

Cast Iron Baked Ziti is a comforting, cheesy Italian-American favorite that’s baked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. Pasta, marinara sauce, and three types of cheese come together in this mouthwatering dish, with the cast iron helping to create a golden, crispy top. This dish is hearty enough to feed a crowd and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s a wonderful make-ahead meal and perfect for any occasion that calls for warm, gooey cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce, and stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Top with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Cast Iron Baked Ziti is a cheesy, comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of traditional baked pasta in a one-pan meal. The cast iron skillet ensures an even bake and creates a perfect crispy top, while the cheesy interior is rich and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a simple salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that will make everyone ask for seconds.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!