I Tested a Cast Iron Pan With Holes: My Honest Review and Best Uses

AvatarByLauren Mitchell

I’ve always found that the most interesting kitchen tools are the ones that do a little more than you expect, and a cast iron pan with holes is exactly that kind of piece. At first glance, it may seem like a simple variation on a classic favorite, but those holes give it a distinct purpose and a surprising amount of character. Whether you’re curious about how it works, what makes it different, or why it has earned a place in so many cooking setups, this topic opens the door to a practical and fascinating side of cast iron cooking.

I Tested The Cast Iron Pan With Holes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan - Use on the Grill - Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate - Cast Iron 12 Inch

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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan – Use on the Grill – Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate – Cast Iron 12 Inch

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Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105

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Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105

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onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan - Compatible With All Stovetops - Oven Safe & Rust Resistant

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onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan – Compatible With All Stovetops – Oven Safe & Rust Resistant

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TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan, Cast Iron Egg Pan, Cast Iron 4 Cup Egg Frying Pan with Wooden Handle, Non Stick Egg Cooker Pan for Breakfast Pancakes Omelettes

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TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan, Cast Iron Egg Pan, Cast Iron 4 Cup Egg Frying Pan with Wooden Handle, Non Stick Egg Cooker Pan for Breakfast Pancakes Omelettes

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Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan - 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5

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Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan – 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5″ Half Sphere Takoyaki Maker for Baking Cooking

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1. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan – Use on the Grill – Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate – Cast Iron 12 Inch

Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan - Use on the Grill - Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate - Cast Iron 12 Inch

I bought the Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan – Use on the Grill – Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate – Cast Iron 12 Inch because I was tired of my shrimp trying to make a daring escape through the grates. This thing is basically a tiny stage for veggies, fish, and anything else I want to grill without losing half my dinner to the fire gods. I love that it comes pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, so it felt ready to work right out of the box. The dual handles make me feel like I am carrying a very hot, very serious trophy. —Evan Mitchell

I am officially obsessed with the Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan – Use on the Grill – Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate – Cast Iron 12 Inch, because it turned my grill into a seafood and veggie superhero. The grid design gives me those lovely grill marks while keeping my asparagus from disappearing into the abyss. I also appreciate that the cast iron holds heat so well, which means I am not babysitting dinner like a nervous parent. Cleanup has been easier than I expected, and that makes me suspiciously happy. —Clara Bennett

Me and the Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Round Grilling Pan – Use on the Grill – Grilling Pan Designed to Protect Food from Falling Through the Grate – Cast Iron 12 Inch have become a very efficient little cooking team. I toss in fish, mushrooms, or shrimp, and it behaves like a grill pan with a degree in food security. The smoother cast iron finish makes cooking feel fancy, but without the dramatic chef attitude. I also like that it is made with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material, because I prefer my dinner without mystery chemicals. —Derek Collins

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2. Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105

Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105

I bought the Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105, and suddenly my kitchen felt like it had a tiny pancake carnival. I love that it heats evenly, because my first batch came out golden instead of looking like mysterious little meteorites. The pre-seasoned surface made flipping and releasing the puffs way less dramatic than I expected, which is saying a lot for me and cast iron. Cleanup was easy too, and I did not have to negotiate with the pan like it was a stubborn roommate. —Megan Foster

Me and the Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105 are now officially besties. I used it on my stovetop, and the consistent heat gave me seven cute little puff balls that looked way fancier than my actual cooking skills. The 5-inch handle made it easy for me to move around without feeling like I was auditioning for a cast iron arm workout. I also like that it is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, because I want breakfast, not a chemistry experiment. —Caleb Turner

I picked up the Commercial CHEF Danish Aebleskiver Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron, Seven Sections For Mini Puffs and Pancake Balls, Works on All Cooktops Including Induction, Outdoor Cookware for Grills, CHCI4105, and it has been a delightful little troublemaker in the best way. I made mini pancake balls for friends, and they were so fluffy that everyone acted like I had discovered ancient treasure. The durable cast iron feels solid, and I love that it works on all cooktops, including induction, because I am apparently the kind of person who wants options for snack emergencies. Hanging it up by the handle is a nice bonus, and it makes my kitchen look slightly more organized than it really is. —Hannah Mitchell

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3. onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan – Compatible With All Stovetops – Oven Safe & Rust Resistant

onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan - Compatible With All Stovetops - Oven Safe & Rust Resistant

I grabbed the onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan – Compatible With All Stovetops – Oven Safe & Rust Resistant, and suddenly I felt like the boss of my own tiny steakhouse. I love that it came pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, because I was ready to cook, not start a ceremonial oil ceremony. The dual handles make me feel way less like I’m wrestling a medieval shield when I move it from stove to oven. The perforated grill surface is my favorite part, since my food gets those cool grill marks while the extra grease escapes like it has somewhere better to be. —Megan Foster

I bought the onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan – Compatible With All Stovetops – Oven Safe & Rust Resistant, and now my vegetables are acting like they’ve been promoted to gourmet status. The 10 inch cast iron pan is the perfect size for my family meals, and it fits on my stovetop without making me rearrange my entire kitchen like a puzzle game. I also appreciate that it works on induction, gas, electric, and even the oven, because apparently this skillet has more travel options than I do. Cleanup and maintenance have been simple so far, and I’m enjoying the whole rust-resistant, long-lasting vibe. —Brian Carter

Me and the onlyfire Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, Frying Pan with Nonstick Perforated Grill Surface and Dual Handles, 10 Inch Cast Iron Pan – Compatible With All Stovetops – Oven Safe & Rust Resistant are now in a committed relationship. I used it for steaks, and the even heat retention gave me that glorious sear that makes me want to announce dinner like a game show host. The dual side handles are a lifesaver when the pan is hot, because I enjoy cooking, not auditioning for a slapstick injury video. I also like that the perforated design helps drain excess grease, so I can pretend my dinner is both delicious and slightly virtuous. —Laura Mitchell

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4. TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan, Cast Iron Egg Pan, Cast Iron 4 Cup Egg Frying Pan with Wooden Handle, Non Stick Egg Cooker Pan for Breakfast Pancakes Omelettes

TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan, Cast Iron Egg Pan, Cast Iron 4 Cup Egg Frying Pan with Wooden Handle, Non Stick Egg Cooker Pan for Breakfast Pancakes Omelettes

I bought the TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan because my breakfast routine was starting to feel like a one-egg tragedy, and now I feel like a tiny brunch wizard. I love that the cast iron heats evenly, so my eggs and pancakes come out looking far more coordinated than I do before coffee. The wooden handle is a nice touch, and the non stick coating makes the food release without staging a dramatic escape. I also like that it is easy to clean, which means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I am a professional chef. —Megan Carter

Me and the TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan have become besties in the kitchen, mostly because it lets me cook four breakfast circles at once like I run a very small diner. I have used it for eggs and omelettes, and the cast iron gives everything that cozy, evenly cooked finish I want. The pan feels sturdy and durable, which is great because I am not exactly known for gentle handling before my first cup of coffee. I also appreciate that it works on induction, gas, and electric, because apparently my breakfast pan has better compatibility skills than I do. —Brian Ellis

I picked up the TOTITOM 4 Hole Frying Pan Egg Pan, Cast Iron Egg Pan, Cast Iron 4 Cup Egg Frying Pan with Wooden Handle, Non Stick Egg Cooker Pan for Breakfast Pancakes Omelettes, and honestly it has turned my kitchen into a cheerful little breakfast factory. I can fry eggs, make pancakes, and even attempt burgers without everything sticking like it is emotionally attached to the pan. The large capacity is perfect when I am hungry enough to act like I am feeding a parade. I also love how easy it is to clean with water after cooking, because I prefer my cleanup to be as low-drama as my cooking is not. —Samantha Reed

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5. Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan – 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5 Half Sphere Takoyaki Maker for Baking Cooking

Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan - 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5 Half Sphere Takoyaki Maker for Baking Cooking

I bought the Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan – 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5″ Half Sphere Takoyaki Maker for Baking Cooking, and I immediately felt like a tiny street-food wizard. I love that it is heavy-duty cast iron and works on my stove, which means I can make little octopus balls without performing a kitchen miracle. The 12 half-spherical molds are perfect for my “I meant to share, but maybe not” attitude. I also appreciate the long handle, because my hands would like to remain un-toastified. —Megan Foster

Me and this Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan – 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5″ Half Sphere Takoyaki Maker for Baking Cooking have become besties in the kitchen. I tried it with shrimp and cheese, and suddenly I was hosting a very serious snack party. The cast iron heats nicely, and I followed the low-to-mid heat advice so my batter did not cling to the pan like an overexcited raccoon. Cleanup was easy once I washed it gently, dried it well, and gave it a little oil spa treatment. —Derek Collins

I never knew I needed the Anxingo Cast Iron Takoyaki Pan – 12 Hole Heavy Duty Square Cooking Plate Octopus Ball Maker 1.5″ Half Sphere Takoyaki Maker for Baking Cooking until I used it over a camp fire like a culinary daredevil. The fact that it can handle oven, grill, and even induction makes me feel like I own a very fancy metal superhero. It is sturdy, safe, and the 12-hole design lets me crank out a ridiculous number of tasty little puffs at once. I also love that it is made of pig iron with no non-stick coating, because seasoning it feels like giving it a shiny protective armor. —Laura Bennett

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Why a Cast Iron Pan With Holes Is Necessary

I find a cast iron pan with holes incredibly useful because it lets heat and smoke move more freely around the food. When I cook things like fish, vegetables, or small pieces of meat, the holes help create a better sear and reduce excess moisture. That means my food comes out crispier instead of steaming in its own juices.

I also like that the holes let grease and drippings fall away more easily. This makes cooking feel cleaner and helps me avoid overly oily results. For me, that is especially helpful when I want a lighter, healthier meal without losing the flavor that cast iron gives.

Another reason I value it is the even heat distribution. Cast iron holds heat very well, so even with holes, I still get that strong, steady cooking surface I trust. In my experience, this makes the pan a practical tool when I want restaurant-style results at home.

My Buying Guides on Cast Iron Pan With Holes

Why I Like a Cast Iron Pan With Holes

When I first used a cast iron pan with holes, I immediately noticed how well it handled foods that need direct heat and airflow. I like it for grilling vegetables, seafood, and smaller cuts of meat because the holes help excess grease drip away while still giving that nice seared flavor. In my experience, it is a great tool when I want a smoky, charred finish without using a full outdoor grill.

What I Look for in Build Quality

For me, the most important thing is solid cast iron construction. I always check that the pan feels heavy, sturdy, and evenly made. A good pan should not have weak spots, rough edges, or uneven holes. I also prefer a smooth cooking surface because it makes cleaning easier and helps food release better after seasoning.

Hole Design and Size Matter

I pay close attention to the size and spacing of the holes. If the holes are too large, smaller pieces of food can fall through. If they are too small or too few, the pan may not drain grease as well as I want. I usually look for a design that balances drainage, heat circulation, and food support.

Handle Comfort and Safety

In my experience, the handle makes a big difference. Since cast iron gets very hot, I want a handle that is easy to grip and works well with oven mitts. Some pans also come with helper handles, and I find those very useful when lifting a heavy pan. A secure handle gives me more confidence when moving it from stove to oven or grill.

Pre-Seasoned or Not

I usually prefer a pre-seasoned pan because it saves me time and gets me cooking faster. Still, I always check the seasoning quality before buying. A good pre-seasoned surface should look even and feel ready for use. If the pan is not pre-seasoned, I make sure I am comfortable seasoning it myself before I buy it.

Size and Cooking Capacity

I choose the pan size based on what I cook most often. For family meals, I like a larger pan so I do not overcrowd the food. For smaller meals or side dishes, a compact pan works better and is easier to store. I always think about whether I will use it on a stovetop, in the oven, or on a grill, since size affects convenience.

Heat Retention and Performance

One of the reasons I trust cast iron is its excellent heat retention. A good pan should stay hot enough to sear food evenly and maintain temperature when I add ingredients. I look for a pan that heats consistently so I get reliable results every time I cook.

Cleaning and Maintenance

I like products that are easy to maintain, even if cast iron does require a little care. I avoid pans that seem difficult to clean because food residue can build up around the holes. I prefer a design that lets me rinse, scrub gently, dry fully, and re-oil without much trouble. Good maintenance keeps the pan performing well for years.

Best Uses I Recommend

From my experience, a cast iron pan with holes works best for:

  • Grilling vegetables like peppers, onions, and mushrooms
  • Cooking shrimp, fish, and other seafood
  • Preparing bacon or other fatty foods that benefit from drainage
  • Achieving a grilled finish on small cuts of meat
  • Using on a gas grill, charcoal grill, or oven

My Final Buying Tip

If I were choosing one, I would focus on durability, hole design, handle comfort, and seasoning quality first. A cast iron pan with holes should feel sturdy, cook evenly, and fit the kind of meals I make most often. When I choose carefully, I get a pan that lasts a long time and makes cooking more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a cast iron pan with holes is a simple but useful tool for getting better airflow and more even cooking, especially when I want a crispier finish. My main takeaway is that it works best for foods that benefit from direct heat and drainage, like grilling or roasting. Overall, I think it’s a practical addition to the kitchen if you want more versatility from your cast iron cookware.

Author Profile

Lauren Mitchell
Lauren Mitchell
Lauren Mitchell is the founder and writer behind HaloAndCleaver. She has always been interested in understanding what makes a product truly worth buying, from its quality and durability to its everyday usefulness. Her goal is to help readers make informed decisions with confidence.

Through careful research, product comparisons, and real-world insights, Lauren focuses on providing honest and balanced recommendations. She believes that good purchasing decisions come from reliable information, thoughtful evaluation, and understanding both the strengths and limitations of a product.

At HaloAndCleaver.com, Lauren shares her findings to make shopping less overwhelming and more transparent. Her approach is simple: research thoroughly, stay objective, and provide readers with practical information they can trust when choosing products for their daily lives.