Beyond Pizza: 7 Unexpected Dishes You Can Make in a 16-Inch Cast Iron Pan

June 27, 2025

Let's be honest, when you think of a 16-inch cast iron pan, your mind probably jumps straight to one thing: pizza. And yes, it makes a magnificent, crispy-crusted pizza. But to relegate this magnificent piece of cookware to just one dish is to do it a grave disservice! That expansive, heat-retaining surface is a culinary playground, capable of transforming everyday meals into extraordinary feasts.

If you've got one of these behemoths gathering dust in your cupboard, or you're considering investing in one, get ready to unlock its true potential. Here are 7 unexpected dishes that prove your 16-inch cast iron pan is a true kitchen MVP:

1. The Ultimate Sheet Pan Dinner
Forget flimsy baking sheets that warp under high heat. Your 16-inch cast iron pan is the king of one-pan meals. Imagine perfectly roasted chicken pieces alongside tender-crisp potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. The cast iron's even heat distribution ensures everything cooks uniformly, and the high sides keep all those delicious juices contained, leading to incredibly flavorful results. Plus, cleanup is often as simple as a quick wipe.

2. Giant Skillet Cookie (or Brownie!)
Move over, individual cookies! A 16-inch cast iron pan is ideal for baking a colossal, gooey, shareable cookie or brownie. The cast iron's ability to retain heat creates that coveted crispy edge while keeping the center wonderfully soft and chewy. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert that will impress any crowd.

3. Family-Sized Frittata
Why make a small frittata when you can make one big enough to feed an army (or a very hungry family)? Your 16-inch pan is perfect for a substantial egg dish, packed with vegetables, cheese, and your favorite proteins. Start it on the stovetop to cook the base, then transfer it to the oven to finish baking until puffed and golden. The same goes for a hearty Spanish tortilla – layered potatoes and onions will cook beautifully.

4. Pan-Seared Paella
While traditional paella often calls for a specific paella pan, your 16-inch cast iron pan can absolutely step up to the plate. Its wide, flat bottom and excellent heat retention are ideal for developing that coveted "socarrat" – the crispy, caramelized rice crust at the bottom that is the hallmark of a great paella. Get ready for a show-stopping meal!

5. Deep-Dish Breakfast Hash
Elevate your breakfast game with a glorious, deep-dish breakfast hash. Sauté onions, peppers, and your choice of sausage or bacon, then add diced potatoes and let them crisp up. Create wells for eggs to cook directly in the hash, then transfer the whole pan to the oven to set the yolks just right. It's a hearty, satisfying start to any day, all from one pan.

6. Upside-Down Cakes
Get creative with upside-down cakes beyond the classic pineapple. Imagine a caramelized apple and onion upside-down pork chop, or a sweet pear and ginger cake. The cast iron pan's non-stick properties (when well-seasoned) make flipping a breeze, revealing a beautifully lacquered top. The even heat ensures your cake bakes perfectly, with a wonderfully moist crumb.

7. Large-Batch Stir-Fry
While not a traditional wok, a 16-inch cast iron pan can handle a surprisingly good large-batch stir-fry. Its wide surface allows for good evaporation, preventing your vegetables from steaming. Get the pan screaming hot, add your oil, and stir-fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. The cast iron will impart a lovely sear to your proteins and veggies, creating that desirable flavor.

So, the next time you reach for that magnificent 16 Inch Cast Iron Pizza Pan Round Griddle by StarBlue, think beyond the ordinary. It's a versatile workhorse waiting to create culinary masterpieces for every meal of the day. What's the most unexpected dish you've made in yours?

With its excellent heat retention and sturdy build, plus those handy FREE Silicone Handles for easy maneuvering, you'll wonder how you ever cooked without it.

Stop limiting your kitchen! Grab your StarBlue cast iron pan today and discover endless possibilities!