Can you use Cast Iron on a Glass Top Stove?

Glass cooktops appeal to many homeowners—they’re sleek and easy to clean. These surfaces can often be installed on kitchen islands or are available as cooktop options on conventional stoves. But sometimes glass top stove owners hear mentions of “cast iron” and want to make a run for it. Just because you’ve opted for that shiny glass surface doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the versatility and flavor of cooking with cast iron.

But there are a few rules and facts to consider before we bust this cast iron stove top myth.

How do smooth-top cooktops work?

Smooth-top stoves and cooktops use a flat surface over the heating elements made from glass, ceramic, or a combination of glass and ceramic. Below the surface are electric, metal coils which heat the glass through radiant heat. That heat is then transferred to the cooking vessel, leaving the rest of the stovetop fairly cool in comparison to traditional stoves.

Unlike the common electric coil cooktops or even the grates on a gas cooktop, smooth-tops are just that—smooth. There are no grates to remove or coils to unplug should a vegetable fall out of your pan while cooking.

Since their introduction in the 1970s they have been a popular choice for modern kitchens. But that shiny surface comes with unique care rules that can spook at home cooks.

Why do some stove manufacturers warn against cast iron?

Traditionally, cast iron is heavy due to the ways modern foundries adopted manufacturing to mass-produce cast iron. In comparison to teflon or stainless steel cookware, the weight difference is usually obvious. Setting down a heavy cast iron pan roughly, is less than ideal for glass. And typically, cast iron cookware has a rough base that could cause scratches.

Also, because cast iron needs to be seasoned, sometimes excess oils can sit on the exterior of the pan which can get trapped between the base and the glass, then burn.

But many of these risks are similar to problems that could arise with other cookware.

While some may call them rebels, there are plenty of at home cooks who continue to use cast iron on their glass stovetops, but they know, not all cast iron is the perfect fit for that smooth, cooking surface. They also know the best tips and tricks to “break the rules” without worrying, which we’ll share with you here.

How to choose the best cast iron skillet for a glass stovetop?

When shopping for a cast iron skillet to use on your glass cooktop, keep three factors in mind:
1. Weight
2. Smooth base surface
3. Size

Why?

Glass stove tops specifically require cookware to have flat bottoms for even heat distribution. And while they are not as delicate as a drinking glass by any means, dropping a heavy pot on a glass stove top could potentially crack the surface.

For any cookware used on glass stovetops, manufacturers warn against using pots and pans that are much larger than the burner. The same applies for any cast iron skillets.

Look for cast iron skillets that are lighter than heavy-duty options and without rough spots on the base surface. When trying to choose between size options, look for options that are no more than one inch larger than the burners on your stove top.

Cooking with cast iron on glass cooktops

You’ve selected your skillet...what’s next? There are some steps and tools to consider before you turn up the heat to ensure you maintain a happy relationship between your cast iron and that glass surface.

The tools you’ll need:

For the skillet:
Paper towel Natural fiber cleaning brush or chain mail scrubber
Warm water
A gentle, eco-friendly soap free of harsh ingredients

Steps for cooking

If you’ve cooked on glass stove tops before, a lot of the steps below will be familiar. But we have included some specific tips for your cast iron cookware.

Taking care of your glass stove top

Here’s what you’ll need for daily quick cleans and a thorough, monthly clean of your glass cooktop.

Cleaning tools

For a quick glass stove top clean: Non-abrasive sponge (think soft and squishy—no scrubby side)
Microfiber towel

For a deep glass stove top clean: Hot water and dish soap
Rags
Non-abrasive sponge
Baking soda
Gloves
Microfiber cloth
Large bowl or a sink

Steps for a quick clean

Did you only create a few spills while cooking? These cleaning tips should keep that surface gleaming. Think of this quick clean as your daily go-to.

Steps for a deep clean

This is a great way to remove stuck on messes or to just give the surface of your glass stovetop a thorough scrub and shine. Upkeep is key with glass cooktops because debris can get trapped under cookware and cause scratches. Left-on spills can also cause permanent discoloration.

If you love to cook no one is going to be able to get you to break up with cast iron, not even your stove. That seasoning and patina are badges of honour that reward you and your food the more you use your skillet. With some of the tips and tricks above, you’ll know exactly what to look for when selecting a cast iron skillet for your glass cooktop and how to clean up afterward. Though the rules are a little different, once you learn them, you can still enjoy the versatility and performance of cast iron on modern cooktops.