The Smithey No. 10 Combo Set is one of those rare sets of cookware that feels both nostalgic and modern at the same time. It’s a two‑piece system — a No. 10 skillet and a deep No. 10 Dutch oven — that nest together and share a lid. On paper, it’s a clever space‑saving concept. In practice, it’s a versatile, beautifully crafted tool that can handle a surprising range of cooking tasks. After spending time cooking with it, the set stands out not just for its looks, but for its thoughtful engineering and performance.
The first thing you notice is the craftsmanship. Smithey is known for its polished cast iron, and the No. 10 Combo Set continues that tradition. The interior surface is smoother than most cast‑iron pans on the market, which helps reduce sticking and makes the seasoning feel more consistent. The exterior has a handsome, almost heirloom quality — something you’d expect to pass down rather than replace. It’s heavy, of course, but not unwieldy. The No. 10 size hits a sweet spot: large enough for everyday cooking, small enough to maneuver comfortably.
Functionally, the combo design is the star. The skillet doubles as a lid for the Dutch oven, creating a tight seal that’s ideal for braising, baking, or slow cooking. It’s a smart use of space, especially for people who want the benefits of multiple cast‑iron pieces without dedicating an entire cabinet to them. The Dutch oven portion is deep enough for soups, stews, and bread, while the skillet excels at searing, sautéing, and frying. Together, they cover most cooking scenarios you’d encounter in a home kitchen.
Heat performance is where the set really shines. Cast iron is known for heat retention, but Smithey’s pieces also heat evenly across the surface. That means fewer hot spots and more predictable results, whether you’re browning chicken thighs or baking cornbread. The skillet develops a strong sear, and the Dutch oven maintains a steady simmer without constant adjustments. Once heated, the combo set holds temperature exceptionally well, which is especially useful for oven‑to‑table dishes.
The seasoning out of the box is solid, though like all cast iron, it improves with use. After a few rounds of cooking, the surface becomes noticeably more nonstick. Eggs slide more easily, and cleanup becomes quicker. The polished interior helps here too; it doesn’t have the gritty texture that some cast‑iron brands start with, so the seasoning builds more smoothly. That said, cast iron still requires a bit of care — drying thoroughly, applying a thin coat of oil, and avoiding long soaks. For people used to stainless steel or nonstick pans, the maintenance might feel like a small adjustment, but it’s manageable.
One of the most pleasant surprises is how well the combo set transitions between cooking methods. You can start a dish on the stovetop, move it to the oven, and finish it under the broiler without switching pans. The Dutch oven is excellent for baking bread, producing a crisp crust and tender interior. The skillet works beautifully for roasting vegetables or finishing steaks. The versatility makes the set feel like a multi‑tool rather than two separate pieces.
Price is another factor. The Smithey No. 10 Combo Set sits firmly in the premium category. You’re paying for craftsmanship, durability, and versatility, and for many cooks, that investment makes sense. Cast iron lasts essentially forever when cared for properly, and the combo design means you’re getting multiple functions in one package.
Overall, the Smithey No. 10 Combo Set is a standout piece of cookware that blends tradition with thoughtful design. It’s durable, versatile, and genuinely enjoyable to cook with. For home cooks who appreciate high‑quality tools and want a set that can handle everything from searing to baking, it’s a compelling choice.
The Smithey No. 10 Combo Set retails for $250 at https://smithey.com/collections/sets/products/the-no-10-combo-set-1
