Is Smithey No. 8 Chef Skillet Good for Making Chili?

By Jack Updated January 27, 2026
Quick Answer: It Depends

The Smithey No. 8 Chef Skillet can work for making chili, but it's not specifically optimized for it. Consider your priorities before deciding.

About the Smithey No. 8 Chef Skillet

The Smithey No. 8 Chef Skillet is a skillets from Smithey, priced at $140-$155. With a rating of ★ 4.9 from 800+ reviews, it's known for:

Check Price on Amazon

How It Performs for Making Chili

The Smithey No. 8 Chef Skillet can handle making chili, but it wasn't specifically designed for it. Here's what to consider:

Pros for making chili:

Potential concerns:

Best For vs. Not Ideal For

✓ Best For

  • Couples
  • Small Kitchens

✗ Not Ideal For

  • Families

Related Questions

How do I remove rust from cast iron?

Scrub with steel wool and hot water until rust is gone. Dry immediately, apply a thin layer of oil, and heat in a 400°F oven for an hour. Repeat if needed.

Can cast iron go in the dishwasher?

No, dishwashers will strip the seasoning and cause rust. Hand wash with hot water and a stiff brush. A small amount of soap is fine despite old myths.

Can cast iron skillets be used for deep frying?

Yes, cast iron's heat retention makes it excellent for deep frying—the oil temperature stays stable when food is added. Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven for safety.

Why is my new cast iron rough?

Modern cast iron is sandcast, leaving a textured surface. This improves with use as seasoning fills the texture. Premium brands machine their surfaces smooth.

Our Verdict

It Depends: The Smithey No. 8 Chef Skillet can work for making chili, but it's not specifically optimized for it. Consider your priorities before deciding.

Check Price on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This doesn't affect our recommendations – we only suggest products we'd use ourselves.

Last updated: January 27, 2026