Best 6 Hot Plates For Cast Iron Skillet: Use Your Favorite Skillet Without Worrying

Searching for the best hot plate for cast iron skillet on the market?

In this article, we break down all the important information on hot plates and find out about the features that make them the most suitable to use whilst cooking on an iron skillet. Whether you want to invest in a single or a double burner, read the reviews of small, portable, and countertop models available on the market.

The Rundown

What Is A Cast-Iron Compatible Hot Plate?

That is a model which has a specific design and cooktop surface suitable for cast-iron cookware. We’re talking about classic hot plates with single or double burners made of cast iron.

Is There a Cast-Iron Hot Plate?

Actually, no. Most of them are made of stainless steel, aluminum or metal with plastic parts. Cast-iron is a material used to make burners, but not an entire unit.

What Is A Cast-Iron Skillet?

Cast-iron skillets are pans used for pan-frying, searing, baking, braising, broiling, and roasting. They are made of strong, sturdy, and durable cast iron.

Wait, Is A Skillet Actually A Frying Pan?

Yes. There is no difference between a frying pan and a skillet. The word “skillet” is just typically used to refer to a small and low-designed cooking pot. However, the same piece of cookware could also be called a frying pan.

Can I Use Other Pots And Pans With These Models?

Of course, you don’t need to use skillets only. Any type of cast-iron, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and ceramic cookware can be used with these hot plates.

Who Needs To Use This Hot Plate & Why?

Basically, anyone that already has a cast-iron skillet or perhaps those who got it as a gift. Many travelers and camping fans have a cast iron skillet too, so they need to make sure to use it with a safe and proper hot plate.

Wide Range Of Cooking Possibilities

Hot plates compatible with cast iron pans are actually suitable for preparing various meals. Why? Because of the skillet. It comes in many sizes and is suitable for different ingredients. So if you combine this appliance with a cast-iron skillet, you can cook, fry, stir, boil, steam, and more.

Budget-Friendly Hot Plates

Most of them come with an excellent budget-friendly price so you can easily find your perfect model for up to $50. To compare, classic models are usually around $60 and up.

What Should I Know Before Buying A Cast-Iron Compatible Burner?

Like any other hot plate model, this too comes with some specifications that make it a bit different, as well as powerful and durable.

Electric Models: Coilless Or Coil Stove?

Electric models with hidden coils and cast iron cooking surfaces are the most suitable models for cooking food in a cast-iron skillet. When speaking of a coil stove, it isn’t recommended to use cast iron cookware on electric coil stovetops.

Are Gas Units Suitable For Cast Iron Pan?

No. Materials such as cast iron, ceramic, and carbon steel are not ideal for gas stoves and they are not recommended to combine with such models.

Number Of Burners

Smaller models with one burner are usually a lot cheaper and they take up less space, so you can easily travel with it, store it in a cabinet, and use it as an additional burner. Double burnee models are bigger in size, but they usually speed up the cooking process, as you can use two skillets simultaneously.

Palette Of Sizes

Choose the size according to the available space you have. There are models which measure 9 by 9 inches or less, so they are perfect for RV. On the other hand, there are models that come with 10 inches big units and more which makes them great for any kitchen.

Strength, Durability, Endurance

Unlike hot plates with glass cooking surfaces, durable metal constructions can endure cast iron skillets without having to worry about breaking the surface of the heating element. Cast-iron burners and stainless steel housing are great material options to make sure your hot plate can endure frequent use and last a long time.

Up To 1,800 Watts Of Power

The market mostly offers hot plates with a power supply of between 1,000 and 1,800 watts, which is the usual range for classic models too. These models are capable of doing any type of cooking. However, have in mind that models with less power will not cook food properly in your skillet (1,000 watts or less).

Full Temperature Control

They come with several heat levels which you can use for cooking different foods more precisely. Some models feature only low, medium, and high heat options, while some let you choose between 7 different temperature levels. The temperature range for most of them goes from 100 Fahrenheit degrees to 450.

Best 6 Hot Plates For Cast Iron Skillet

Cuisinart Cast-Iron Single Burner

1300-Watt Burner
With a heavy-duty cast-iron heating element, this model is one of the best options. The large plate uses a 1300-Watt power supply and a temperature knob with 6 heat levels from low to high. Apart from the control knob, the front side of the stainless steel housing also features a ‘ready’ and ‘on’ indicator lights.

Heavy-Duty Cast-Iron
The non-slip feet make the unit stable while you are cooking in the skillet. As they can be heavy objects, they will work great on the heavy-duty cast-iron burner without breaking the heating element. Ther indicator lights will alert you when the unit is on and heating, and when it reaches the desired temperature for precise cooking.

Measurements
The solid burner can be easily wiped clean. It is 11.5 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 2.5 inches high. Even when using a skillet, it won’t take up too much space in your small or busy kitchen. It can be used as an extra cooking surface in your kitchen, or as a cooking stovetop in spaces without a kitchen.

Works In Small Spaces
The compact and portable size is great for storing it when not in use, as well as using it in small spaces, such as RVs, boats, dorm rooms, and studio apartments. As you can adjust the temperature, you can cook a variety of meats and vegetables.

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CUSIMAX C180N Hot Plate

For Different Skillet Sizes
With a power supply of 1,800 Watts, this double burner hot plate features two burners with independent temperature controls. Every burner has an indicator light to alert you when the heating element is on to avoid any kind of injuries and burn damage. It works with all types of cooking pots and pans with a maximum diameter size of 7.1 and 6.4 inches.

Durable Design
The burners are constructed from cast-iron material that makes them durable and suitable for use even with skillets. The thermostat knobs let you adjust the temperature for cooking various meals more precisely. You can use two different sized pots at once on this double burner.

Safe & Stable
This unit has feet that are anti-slippery for safety and stability while cooking. The burners will cycle on and off to maintain the desired temperature and prevent overheating. At the same time, the burners work to distribute heat fast and evenly and thus waste less energy while cooking.

For Home & Away
Each burner has a power supply of 900 Watts so that you can even use two skillets for cooking at once. It can be used every day or for occasional use when you are cooking away from your kitchen or need an extra cooking surface in busy kitchens. The durability of stainless steel and cast-iron materials are great for cooking.

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Elite Cuisine ESB-301F Electric Hot Plate

1000-Watt Power Supply
This unit comes in black or white color and has a flat heating element constructed from cast iron. It uses a power supply of 1,000 Watts and has an adjustable thermostat control with warm, low, medium, and high levels of temperature. The rubber feet make it stable on countertops and safe to use with the cool-touch base.

9 Inches Long & Wide
The heavy-duty burner construction can withstand cooking on heavy cast-iron skillets without doing any damage to the burner. Likewise, it is also easy to keep it clean by simply wiping it down after it cools off. It measures 9 inches in length and width, and 3.25 inches in height.

Space-Saving Design
Without taking up too much space, this single burner offers you a cooking surface that can be used in small spaces without a kitchen or as an extra cooktop in busy kitchens. You can use it in offices, dorm rooms, studio apartments, recreational vehicles, and more. As long as you have access to electricity, you can cook on this hot plate.

Also Keeps Food Warm
This model has a non-sticking surface that will be easy to keep clean and distribute heat evenly when turned on. Apart from cooking in a cast-iron skillet, you can also use this single burner to keep food at a buffet station.

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Elite Gourmet EDB-302BF Double Plate

Adjustable Heat Levels
This model features two flat burners constructed from durable cast-iron material. It is 17.5 inches wide, 10 inches long, and 3.5 inches high. The burners each have a thermostat knob with low, medium, and high-temperature levels, and two power indicator lights.

Cook Steak On A Skillet
You can heat up food on two burners and make delicious steaks, as well as cook soup, pasta, and different breakfast foods, and more. The burners have non-sticking surfaces for even heat distribution and easy cleaning. It allows you to cook two meals at once.

Saves Space & Energy
The size is ideal for cooking when away from home. The power lights will indicate when each burner is turned on for safety precautions. By using this hot plate to cook in small spaces, you will save energy and space that would be needed for a regular stovetop.

Stable & Stylish
The rubber feet keep the unit stable and safe while the overall design saves space and allows you to cook two things at once. It uses a power supply of 1,500 Watts and it is stylish enough to fit into any kind of space without a problem. In case you want to use it only occasionally, it won’t take up too much space when stored away.

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Techwood Portable Hot Plate

For All Cookware Types
This portable hot plate is easy to store away, as well as transport when needed. It features a 7.6-inch single burner with a power supply of 1,500 Watts and can be used with different types of cookware. The model measures 11.8 inches in width, 7.9 inches in length, and 3.9 inches in height.

User-Friendly
The stainless steel housing makes it durable even for frequent use. The feet enable stable cooking to ensure the safety of the user. The cool-touch handles are made from stainless steel so you can comfortably adjust the position of the hot plate without hurting yourself.

Cook In Small Spaces
You can use travel hot plate to cook in RVs, dorm rooms, when camping, in the office, and other small spaces. The compact size saves space while also giving you enough power to make versatile meals. You can fry, deep fry, cook slowly, boil water, make soups, vegetables, and more.

Lightweight & Space-Saving
The hot plate will keep the temperature for cooking until the setting is changed. A damp cloth will keep the unit clean by simply wiping it after it cools down. Apart from having a space-saving design, it is also lightweight for ease of portability. Perfect for cooking on the go, you can cook your favorite foods on the 7.5-inch cooking surface.

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Aroma Housewares AHP-303

Cookware Restrictions
This single burner comes in black color and a small size with a power supply of 1,000 Watts. It is best to use with cookware that has a diameter between 6.5 and 7 inches. The single burner comes with a temperature knob that features a warm, low, medium, and high settings for different cooking needs.

Durable Materials
It is very durable and constructed from die-cast metal to withstand frequent use and cooking. It is easy to clean up after you are done cooking and the unit is cool. It can be used in different spaces, as long as you have access to a power outlet.

Dimensions
The small hot plate is 9.4 inches long, 8.5 inches wide, and 3.1 inches high. It can be used in the kitchen when you need an extra cooking surface for preparing several dishes at once. On the other hand, it can also be used in small spaces without a conventional kitchen.

Safe To Use
The black color finish fits into any interior design and the solid surface prevents food spillage from going inside the unit. For safety reasons, the power light will indicate when the unit is on to prevent guessing and avoid any possible damage or injuries.

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Models Suitable For Cast-Iron Cookware – First Usage Tips

Hot plates for cast-iron skillets are as simple to use as any other model. However, keep in mind that you have to “season” the plate before using it for the first time. That means that you need to heat it up to the maximum level of temperature and let it be like that for around 4 minutes. This burns off any residue on the plate.

So, Is It Normal That My Plate Is Smoking?

Absolutely normal, yes. But, only when you turn it on the first time and then it should stop. If it smokes every time, contact the manufacturer, that is not normal and it should not be happening.

Safe Construction For Cast-Iron Skillet

Besides the already mentioned strong and durable construction, these models come with a couple of additional safety features too. Here is what you need to know:

Food Spillage Protection

This type of hot plate has a great design that provides food spillage protection. The solid surface prevents food spillage from going inside the unit.

Will A Hot Plate Be Stable On My Countertop?

Absolutely. For stability and security, such burners come with non-slip feet which ensure safe and stable cooking operation.

Why Does My Model Have Beeping Lights?

To alarm you when the hot plate is on, as well as to indicate that the unit has reached the set temperature.

Use Metal Utensils

Metal utensils are the best to use with units compatible with cast iron cookware. Metal can withstand the tougher and rougher cooking and it does a better job of scraping food off the sides.

Ease Of Cleaning

These models may be designed for specific cookware, but when it comes to their cleaning, they really do not require any special cleaning method.

Flat Surface, Simple Cleaning

Since these are electric and coilless hot plates, all you need to do is simply clean their flat cooktops. You can use a mild cloth or sponge with a mild detergent. Just make sure to let the hot plate cool down before you wipe it. To compare, coil models are a lot harder to clean since you need to lift the coil up and then use a toothbrush to reach all the spots.

How Do I Maintain Such A Hot Plate?

Make sure to regularly clean it. Every once in a while, deep clean it with baking soda and vinegar since cast iron is prone to rust. If it stops working, make sure to call a manufacturer and professional so the problem is taken care of in the right way.