In the world of culinary arts, the importance of the right equipment cannot be overstated. A key piece of equipment that belongs in every cook’s arsenal is a skillet. Skillets offer versatility, enabling the preparation of a variety of meals, from pancakes to stir-fries. However, given the plethora of choices on the market, selecting the ideal skillet for your cooking needs can pose a significant challenge.

When choosing a skillet, there are a few things to consider. The first is the material. Skillets can be made from a variety of materials, including cast iron, stainless steel, and non-stick coatings. Each material has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. For example, cast iron skillets are durable and retain heat well, but they require seasoning and can be heavy. Non-stick skillets are easy to clean, but they may not last as long as other materials.

Another important factor to consider is size. Skillets come in a range of sizes, from small 8-inch skillets to larger 12-inch skillets. The size you choose will depend on the type of dishes you plan to cook and the number of people you’ll be cooking for.

Lastly, the handle is an often-overlooked feature of a skillet. A comfortable handle can make cooking more enjoyable and safer. Look for a handle that is easy to grip and stays cool to the touch.

At our test kitchen, we spent hours researching and testing various skillets to find the best one for cooking. After careful consideration, we have compiled a list of the top skillets that we believe are worth your investment.

Our top picks are based on factors such as material, size, handle comfort, and overall performance. We’ve also included skillets at different price points to fit every budget. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, we’ve got you covered.

Best Skillets

At our test kitchen, we’ve put various skillets to the test to find the best ones for cooking. We’ve tested for heat distribution, durability, and ease of use. After hours of testing, we’ve narrowed down the list to the best skillets that you can buy right now. Below is our list of the top skillets that will help you cook up a storm in the kitchen.

• Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
• All-Clad Stainless Steel Skillet
• T-fal E93808 Professional Total Nonstick Fry Pan
• Calphalon Classic Nonstick Fry Pan
• Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, these skillets will make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Cuisinart 12-Inch Skillet, Nonstick-Hard-Anodized with Glass Cover

This skillet is perfect for anyone who wants a durable, non-stick pan with a professional look.

Pros

• The hard anodized finish is dense, non-porous and highly wear-resistant for extra durability and professional performance.
• The sloped sides and wide flat bottoms deliver perfect performance and maximize cooking surface.
• The Quantanium nonstick interior is reinforced with titanium and provides lasting food release, healthy non-fat cooking option, and easy clean-up.

Cons

• The skillet is not dishwasher safe.
• The skillet is quite heavy, which may make it difficult for some people to handle.
• The skillet is not suitable for use with metal utensils.

We recently purchased the Cuisinart 12-Inch Skillet and have been thoroughly impressed with its performance. The hard anodized finish gives the skillet a professional look and feel, while also ensuring that it is durable and wear-resistant. We have used this skillet for frying, sautéing, and browning, and have found that the sloped sides and wide flat bottoms provide excellent cooking performance and maximize the cooking surface.

The Quantanium nonstick interior is reinforced with titanium, which provides lasting food release and makes for easy clean-up. We have found that the nonstick surface works great and that food doesn’t stick to the pan. Additionally, the nonstick surface allows for healthy, non-fat cooking options.

One downside to this skillet is that it is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand-washing. Additionally, the skillet is quite heavy, which may make it difficult for some people to handle. Finally, it is not suitable for use with metal utensils, as they can scratch the nonstick surface.

Overall, we highly recommend the Cuisinart 12-Inch Skillet for anyone who wants a durable, non-stick pan with a professional look. It is perfect for frying, sautéing, and browning, and the nonstick surface makes for easy clean-up and healthy cooking options.

HENSENMEN Frying Pan Nonstick Skillet

If you’re looking for a new skillet for your kitchen, the HENSENMEN Frying Pan Nonstick Skillet is worth considering.

Pros

• The non-stick coating prevents food from sticking, making cooking and cleaning a breeze.
• The ergonomic bakelite handle is comfortable to hold and makes it easy to pick up the pan.
• The skillet heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring an efficient cooking experience.

Cons

• The pan cannot be used in the oven due to the handle material.
• The non-stick coating may start to peel off over time.
• The pan may not be as durable as other options on the market.

We recently had the chance to test out the HENSENMEN Frying Pan Nonstick Skillet, and we were impressed with its performance. The non-stick coating worked well, preventing food from sticking and making cleanup a breeze. We appreciated the extended bottom design, which helped the skillet heat up quickly and evenly. The ergonomic bakelite handle was comfortable to hold and made it easy to pick up the pan.

One thing to keep in mind is that the pan cannot be used in the oven due to the handle material. Additionally, the non-stick coating may start to peel off over time, so it may not be the most durable option on the market. However, for the price, we think it’s a solid choice for anyone in need of a new skillet.

In summary, if you’re in the market for a new skillet and want something that’s easy to use and clean, the HENSENMEN Frying Pan Nonstick Skillet is definitely worth considering.

Simple Chef Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set

We highly recommend the Simple Chef Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set for anyone looking for a versatile, durable, and high-quality skillet set.

Pros

• The skillets are virtually indestructible and will last for decades, making this set a great investment.
• The factory pre-seasoning makes the skillets virtually non-stick, easy to clean, and protected against scratches. This also enhances the flavor of your food.
• The skillets are multi-functional and suitable for many different cooking methods, including stove top, oven, campfire, and slow-cooking. The design provides superior heat retention and conducts heat evenly, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.

Cons

• The skillets are not dishwasher safe.
• The set is not oven safe.
• The skillets are heavy, which may be a challenge for some users.

The Simple Chef Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set is a great choice for anyone who loves cooking. The skillets are heavy-duty and virtually indestructible, so they will last for years, decades, and even generations to come. The factory pre-seasoning makes the skillets virtually non-stick, easy to clean, and protected against scratches. This also enhances the flavor of your food. Plus, the skillets are multi-functional and suitable for many different cooking methods, including stove top, oven, campfire, and slow-cooking. The design provides superior heat retention and conducts heat evenly, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.

The set includes three different sizes of skillets, which makes it versatile for different cooking needs. The sturdy handle aids in lifting, and provides a hole for hanging when not in use. We love that the set comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free.

In summary, the Simple Chef Cast Iron Skillet 3-Piece Set is a great investment for anyone who wants a versatile, durable, and high-quality skillet set. The skillets are virtually indestructible, non-stick, and multi-functional, making them perfect for a variety of cooking methods. If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting skillet set, this is definitely worth considering.

HexClad Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan, 10-Inch

If you’re looking for a skillet that can deliver the searing power of stainless, durability of cast-iron, and easy cleanup of nonstick, then the HexClad Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The tri-ply construction of aluminum between two layers of stainless-steel with a hexagonal nonstick surface delivers the perfect sear and easy cleanup.
• The Hybrid 10-inch size is perfect for preparing entrées for two, a hearty solo meal, or a couple of portions of sautéd veggies.
• The skillet is scratch-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe up to 500°F. (Lids are oven-safe up to 400°F.), making it versatile for all your cooking needs.

Cons

• The price point is higher than other nonstick skillets on the market.
• The skillet is not safe to use in the oven above 500°F, which may not be ideal for some recipes.
• The skillet is not nonstick, which may require more oil or butter for cooking.

We were impressed with the HexClad Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan’s performance. The tri-ply construction of aluminum between two layers of stainless-steel with a hexagonal nonstick surface delivered the perfect sear and easy cleanup. The Hybrid 10-inch size was perfect for preparing entrées for two, a hearty solo meal, or a couple of portions of sautéd veggies. We also appreciated that the skillet was scratch-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe up to 500°F. (Lids are oven-safe up to 400°F.), making it versatile for all our cooking needs.

One thing to keep in mind is that the price point is higher than other nonstick skillets on the market. Additionally, the skillet is not safe to use in the oven above 500°F, which may not be ideal for some recipes. Lastly, the skillet is not nonstick, which may require more oil or butter for cooking.

Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality skillet that can deliver the perfect sear and easy cleanup, the HexClad Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan is definitely worth considering.

Granitestone 14 Inch Frying Pan with Lid

If you’re looking for a large, non-stick skillet that can handle cooking for the entire family, the Granitestone 14 Inch Frying Pan with Lid might be just what you need. While it has some downsides, it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants a durable, easy-to-clean skillet.

Pros

• XL Capacity: The Granitestone skillet has plenty of space to cook large meals, making it perfect for hosting dinner parties or feeding a big family.
• Ultra Non-Stick: Thanks to its diamond-reinforced non-stick coating, this skillet releases food easily without the need for oil or butter, making it a healthier choice.
• Super Durable: The Granitestone skillet is tough enough to withstand metal utensils, and its aluminum exterior is highly wear-resistant for long-lasting performance.

Cons

• Warps Easily: Some users have reported that the Granitestone skillet warps easily, which can make it difficult to cook evenly.
• Lid Doesn’t Fit Well: The lid that comes with this skillet doesn’t fit well, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to cook something that needs to be covered.
• Heavy: The Granitestone skillet is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around the kitchen.

Overall, we think the Granitestone 14 Inch Frying Pan with Lid is a good choice for anyone who needs a large, non-stick skillet. While it has some downsides, its durable construction and easy-to-clean surface make it a solid choice for anyone who wants a skillet that can handle cooking for a crowd.

CS-KOCH 11″ Skillet for Frying

If you’re looking for a durable and non-stick skillet to cook your favorite meals, the CS-KOCH 11″ Skillet for Frying is a great choice.

Pros

• The non-stick surface is superior and scratch-resistant, making it easy to cook and clean.
• The pan’s ceramic titanium coating is PFOA and PTFE free, ensuring that you’re not ingesting any harmful substances while cooking.
• The skillet’s even heat induction allows for precise temperature control and avoids hot spots while cooking.

Cons

• The handle and lid knob can get hot, so make sure to use a potholder or oven mitt when handling.
• The pan is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand washing.
• The skillet’s size may not be suitable for larger meals.

We recently used the CS-KOCH 11″ Skillet for Frying to cook eggs, pancakes, and sautéed vegetables. The non-stick surface allowed us to cook without any oil, and the food slid right off the skillet. The even heat induction made it easy to cook without hot spots, and the skillet was suitable for all stove tops, including induction, glass, and gas stoves. The ergonomic stainless steel handle was comfortable to grip and made it easy to move the skillet around the stove top. The glass lid allowed us to check on the food without having to remove the lid, and the skillet’s ceramic titanium coating made it easy to clean.

Overall, we highly recommend the CS-KOCH 11″ Skillet for Frying for anyone looking for a durable and non-stick skillet to cook their favorite meals.

MsMk 7 inch Small Egg Nonstick Frying Pan with Lid

If you’re looking for a small skillet for cooking eggs, the MsMk 7 inch Small Egg Nonstick Frying Pan with Lid is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Professional heat distribution: 4mm-thick smooth stainless steel bottom & omelet pan pan design with thick mouth and thin body allow for more even heat distribution
• Anti-scalding & comfortable handle: Stay cool. No pain to grip, no effort to lift due to its weight-saving design & no slips surface
• LIFETIME WARRANTY: DESIGN IN USA with imported components, we stand behind our this small frying pan and offer a 100% replacement policy for free if any issues arise due to the product’s manufacturing or material defects. You can trust that each item has been carefully crafted to meet our high standards and will provide long-lasting value

Cons

• May not be suitable for large portions or cooking more than one egg at a time
• The non-stick coating may wear off over time with regular use
• The pan may scratch easily if not used with the proper utensils

We found that the MsMk skillet heats up quickly and evenly, making it easy to cook eggs to perfection. The non-stick coating works well and makes it easy to clean, but we recommend using gentle utensils to avoid scratching the surface. The handle stays cool to the touch, even when cooking on high heat, which is a nice touch.

The skillet is also compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and can be used in the oven at temperatures up to 700°F. The included lid is a nice bonus, making it easy to cook eggs over-easy without having to flip them.

Overall, we highly recommend the MsMk 7 inch Small Egg Nonstick Frying Pan with Lid for anyone looking for a high-quality skillet for cooking eggs. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to use, making it perfect for everyday use in the kitchen.

Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 11in/5Qt Saute Pan

If you’re looking for a versatile nonstick skillet, the Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid may be worth considering.

Pros

• The Vinchef Saute Pan uses Germany 3C + CERAMIC Reinforced coating technology, making it highly abrasion-resistant and long-lasting. It’s also PFOA&APEO free, ensuring your food’s safety.
• The skillet is suitable for use on gas, induction, electric, halogen, and ceramic stovetops, thanks to its specially designed induction pan bottom. It heats evenly and quickly, allowing you to cook your meals to perfection.
• The ergonomic bakelite handle is equipped with a thermal sensor that changes color when the frying pan reaches the optimum heating level of 300℉. This feature helps reduce oily smoke and ensures your vegetables are cooked at the right temperature. The glass lid is designed for professional multiple cooking use.

Cons

• The skillet is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to clean it by hand.
• The Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid is not oven safe, so you can’t use it to bake or roast your dishes.
• The skillet’s 11 inches/5Qt size may be too large for some kitchens and may not be suitable for cooking smaller meals.

In our experience, the Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid is a high-quality skillet that’s worth considering if you’re in the market for a new nonstick pan. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and heats up quickly and evenly. The nonstick coating works well, and we found that food doesn’t stick to the pan, making it easy to clean. The skillet’s deep pot wall and 11 inches/5Qt size make it a versatile cooking tool that can replace most of the pot products in your kitchen.

Overall, we recommend the Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid for anyone looking for a reliable, nonstick skillet that can be used on a variety of stovetops. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves to cook and wants a skillet that’s built to last.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best skillet for cooking, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of important factors to help guide your decision-making process.

Material

The material of the skillet is an important factor to consider. Some common materials include cast iron, stainless steel, and non-stick coatings. Cast iron is a popular choice for its durability and heat retention, while stainless steel is known for its even heating and resistance to corrosion. Non-stick coatings are great for easy cleanup, but may not be as durable as other materials.

Size

The size of the skillet is also important to consider. Skillets come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small individual pans to large family-sized pans. It’s important to choose a size that fits your cooking needs and the size of your stovetop.

Handle

The handle of the skillet is another important feature to consider. Look for a handle that is comfortable to grip and stays cool to the touch during cooking. Some skillets also come with a second handle for added stability and ease of use.

Compatibility

Make sure to choose a skillet that is compatible with your stovetop. Some skillets may not work with certain types of stoves, such as induction cooktops.

Maintenance

Consider the maintenance required for the skillet. Some materials may require seasoning or special care, while others can be easily cleaned with soap and water.

In summary, when choosing the best skillet for cooking, consider the material, size, handle, compatibility, and maintenance required. By taking these factors into account, you can find a skillet that meets your cooking needs and preferences.