How to Make a Skillet Non-Stick

Old cast iron skillets can last for years if you take care of them properly. Curing is the most important part of care. The cast iron skillet surface is not a nonstick one, but curing the pan gives it a sleek surface that prevents foods from sticking to the iron (as long as you know what you're doing -- a seasoned or cured cast iron skillet's not foolproof). Curing also prevents the development of rust on the pan surface and an iron taste from transferring to your foods. After the first curing, your pan will also wash easier, usually with a simple wipe.

Things You'll Need

• Oven
• Vegetable shortening
• Paper towel

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

   • 2

     Spray the pan with vegetable shortening, or wipe the surface with vegetable shortening using a paper towel.

   • 3

     Set the skillet upside down in the oven and allow it to bake for one hour.

   • 4

     Remove the skillet from the oven with a pot holder. Wipe off any excess oil using a paper towel. Let the skillet cool before putting it away.