Can You Use Cast Iron on a Glass Top Stove? The Possibility Rate

Cast iron cookware is a staple in many American kitchens, known for its versatility, durability, and long-lasting nature when properly cared for. However, with the rise in popularity of glass top stoves and induction cooktops, many people wonder if cast iron is safe to use on these types of stovetops.

In this piece, we will investigate the suitability of utilizing cast iron cookware on glass top stoves and induction cooktops. We will examine the features of cast iron cookware and how they compare to the fragile nature of glass top stoves and induction cooktops. 

Additionally, we will provide advice and suggestions for using cast iron cookware on these types of stovetops safely, including the use of stovetop-to-oven safe cookware and heat diffusers. Moreover, we will also look into the compatibility of cast iron with induction cooktops, and how to determine whether your cast iron pan can be used on an induction cooktop.

Cast Iron Cookware

First, it's important to understand that cast iron cookware was originally intended to be used over open flames. The heavy and rugged nature of cast iron pans makes them ideal for use on gas and electric coil stoves, which can handle the weight and rough bottom surface of the pans. However, glass top stoves and induction cooktops are a different story.

Glass Top Stoves

Glass top stoves have a delicate surface that can easily be scratched or damaged by the rough bottom of a cast iron pan. In addition, cast iron cookware is not as heat-responsive as other materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, which can cause uneven heating on a glass top stove. This can lead to hot spots and even damage to the stovetop.

Induction Cooktops

Induction cooktops also have a delicate surface, but also use a magnetic field to heat the pan, which cast iron pans may not be compatible with. Some cast iron pans are specially made to be induction compatible, but not all cast iron pans will work on an induction cooktop.

Can you use cast iron on a glass top stove?

It is possible, but generally not recommended to use cast iron cookware on a glass top stove. Cast iron cookware is known for its heavy weight and rough bottom surface, which can scratch or damage the delicate surface of a glass top stove. Additionally, cast iron cookware is not as heat-responsive as other materials like stainless steel or aluminum, which means it can take longer to heat up or cool down, and can also cause uneven heating.

If you have a glass top stove or induction cooktop and would like to use cast iron cookware, it is best to use stovetop to oven safe cast iron cookware, that way you can place it on the stove to heat it up or brown and then move it to the oven for finishing the cooking.

It is also important to use a stove burner that is similar in size to the bottom of the pan and to use low to medium heat when cooking with cast iron on a glass top stove. Additionally, be sure to use a heat diffuser or heat trivet to help distribute the heat evenly and prevent damage to the stove top.

It's best to check with your stove manufacturer's recommendations before using cast iron cookware on a glass top stove.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while cast iron cookware can be a great choice for many types of stoves, it's important to be mindful of its heavy and rugged nature when using it on glass top stoves or induction cooktops. If you're unsure whether your cast iron pan is suitable for use on your stovetop, it's best to check with the manufacturer's recommendations before using it.