Aldi Just Brought Back This $17 Copycat of a $120 Internet-Famous Pan

This time, it comes in a brand-new size and three colors!

Last year, the internet went wild for a cast iron pan that was neither from the famous Le Creuset nor Lodge brands. Why? It has a sleeker design. Traditional cast iron pans look like, well, cast iron. While any home cook knows how amazing it is to cook in heavy pans and skillets, to some, they aren’t always the most beautiful pieces of cookware in the kitchen.

The Cast Iron Always Pan became a darling of those who wanted the function of cast iron without its usual form. It can do everything traditional cast iron can do: sear, grill, braise, fry, sauté, roast, bake, broil, and stew. It’s oven compatible up to 500 degrees F (without its lid). And, to the naked eye, it looks nothing like a cast iron pan.

With several colors to choose from, the Cast Iron Always Pan has a unique look for cookware, and the internet took notice. So did Aldi. Last fall, a copycat version appeared on Aldi’s store shelves, but like most Aldi Finds, it quickly disappeared. But it’s back this week, in a smaller size, and it’s sure to sell out as fast as it did last year.

Aldi’s Crofton Mini Awesome Pan

The Cast Iron Always Pan comes in several sizes, including the 8.5-inch for $120. Starting this week, Aldi's "Aisle of Shame"—the housewares and decor aisle that Aldi shoppers love—will have an 8-inch Crofton Mini Awesome Pan for just $16.99. This pan is perfect for those who love the look of the Always Pans but don't have the funds to purchase one.

We want to be clear: This pan is a copycat in looks only. While the Always Pan is cast iron, Aldi's Awesome Pan is cast aluminum. Its nonstick coating also differs from the Always Pan's, but both pans are nonstick. The Awesome Pan is only oven-compatible up to 300 degrees F, making it only suitable for keeping foods warm. (There are very few things you can fully cook in the oven at 300 degrees F or lower.)

Why are we excited about the Mini Awesome Pan? It's so useful for stovetop cooking, especially if you're cooking for one or two. Its size is excellent for scrambled eggs, crêpes, fried salmon, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Toast for two, or a small batch of Sloppy Joe meat.

We're also excited about this pan because it's so attractive. It comes in black, pink, or blue, and its lid is the same color, creating a seamless look. And, if you snagged one of the larger 10.25-inch Awesome Pans last year, you can add another piece to your Awesome cookware.

The Crofton 8-inch Awesome Pan is on sale on May 8 in the Aldi Finds aisle and will be available until supplies run out, usually within one week for most of the store's popular Finds. 

Read the original article on All Recipes.