Cast-iron skillets have soared in popularity over the last several years, introducing a new generation of home-cooks to this fantastic piece of cookware. Whether you're looking to sear the perfect cut ...

Plus, extended exposure to moisture can cause rust. Wash your cast-iron pans by hand. Avoid soaking them for any longer than a few minutes, if at all, and dry with a clean towel right away.

But cleaning the skillet can be a bit ... I like this $20 Oxo cast-iron brush. It works great on a classic flat skillet but has separated tufts of bristles so it'll work well on cast-iron grill ...