VerdictAI
#5 in Best Cast Iron Skillets

Stargazer 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet | Made in USA, Seasoned, Premium Frying Pan for Grilling, Searing, Baking & More – Durable…

Stargazer · 1 more pick

Best for

Best large smooth-surface

Amazon rating

★★★★★4.6(459)

Amazon aggregate, one input among many in the Verdict Score

Verdict scoreGreat
83/ 100

Current price

$140.00

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Updated Jun 27, 2026 · 1 min read

Stargazer 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet | Made in USA, Seasoned, Premium Frying Pan for Grilling, Searing, Baking & More – Durable…

Sources behind this verdict

10 reviewers weighted by source trust

Methodology →

The consensus

What reviewers found

Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.

Across the reviewers we read, the 12-inch Stargazer extends the brand's smooth-surface appeal to a larger cooking area. Bon Appétit notes it 'comes with an attractive bronzy seasoning layer out of the box, and only took a couple of fried eggs to establish a slick, black sheen,' and r/castiron owners call it 'the best pan I've ever had' and 'the most nonstick I have ever had.' That said, a sourdough/cast-iron Facebook group flags that some users find Stargazer pans struggle to hold seasoning and need repeated applications.

What reviewers liked

  • Bon Appétit and r/castiron praise the slick, fast-seasoning smooth surface
  • Large 12-inch cooking area for searing and family meals
  • Stay-cool handle and helper handle noted by reviewers
  • Made in USA, robust yet manageable per retailer descriptions

Where it falls short

  • A Facebook cast-iron group flags inconsistent seasoning retention
  • Premium price (around $140) versus far cheaper Lodge 12-inch
  • No high-trust source specifically tested this 12-inch version
  • Heavier than the 10.5-inch at around 6.5 lbs

More from Stargazer

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Across the reviews

Synthesis · not our verdict

Across the reviewers we read, the 12-inch Stargazer extends the brand's smooth-surface appeal to a larger cooking area. Bon Appétit notes it 'comes with an attractive bronzy seasoning layer out of the box, and only took a couple of fried eggs to establish a slick, black sheen,' and r/castiron owners call it 'the best pan I've ever had' and 'the most nonstick I have ever had.' That said, a sourdough/cast-iron Facebook group flags that some users find Stargazer pans struggle to hold seasoning and need repeated applications.

Key specs

Source: Amazon listing
Superior Smooth Cooking Surface
Enjoy a flawlessly machined smooth cooking surface that minimizes food sticking, ensuring effortless cooking and easy cleanup. Our non-stick pan is perfect for sizzling cornbread, frying eggs, baking in the oven, and crafting delicious breakfasts with crispy bacon on any stovetop.
Individually Crafted In The Usa
Our American made cast-iron skillet cookware is a testament to unparalleled craftsmanship. Preseasoned and meticulously polished, these castiron pans are a true symbol of quality cookware, offering exceptional performance and durability for all your culinary adventures.
Modern Design
Discover the modern innovation of our cast iron skillet. This large-sized skillet offers exceptional heat retention and easy handling. Featuring our stay-cool handle, it ensures your comfort and safety with its extended cooling properties.
Seamless Pouring Experience
Our drip-free flared rim design eliminates the need for pour spouts. Pour from any angle, whether you're cooking breakfast, creating Cajun masterpieces, baking pizza, serving delicious meals, or using it on induction or stovetop.
Highly Acclaimed
Our highly acclaimed, handmade cast iron cookware is built to last for generations. Crafted with no toxic chemicals or space-age materials, just pure iron. Renowned for our smooth surface finish and practical design, these skillets offer durability that stands the test of time.
Lifetime Warranty
Stargazer cookware is built to last many lifetimes and we stand behind it. If your cookware is defective or fails during proper use, we'll repair or replace it at no cost to you. There is no expiration on this warranty. Your cookware is covered as long as it is used according to our instructions and isn't modified in any way. Warranty coverage is for manufacturer defects only and does not include damage due to improper use or user error, such as warping due to excessive heat.

What customers say

2 verified voices
I've had my Stargazer 12 for about a month now, I absolutely love it and it's the best pan I've ever had! I've owned a couple of cheap skillets ...
Supportingvia r/castiron
It's been a fantastic piece and is staying in the permanent rotation. It heats up great, holds heat great, and nothing has become stuck on from cooking.
Supportingvia r/castiron

Trust tier reflects our editorial assessment of the source, not the individual quote. Hover for the rationale. See how we tier sources →

Video review

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Stargazer Cast Iron Review: Is This $145 Skillet Better Than a $30 ...” · YouTube

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