Best Skillet for the Money: Top Picks and Reviews

Edit: Right now Lodge is offering 50% off their skillets, cookware, etc. Click Here To Take Advantage Of The Deal

Having the proper cooking equipment can be a game-changer in the kitchen. Among the crucial utensils that every kitchen should have is a skillet. Skillets are adaptable, perfect for numerous cooking techniques including sautéing, searing, and frying. However, given the plethora of choices available, selecting the ideal skillet for your requirements can prove to be a daunting task, particularly for those watching their spending.

That’s where we come in. We’ve spent hours researching and testing skillets to find the best one for the money. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about skillets and the critical things to consider when making a purchase.

What to Consider When Buying a Skillet:

Material: Skillets come in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, cast iron, and nonstick. Each material has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to consider what you’ll be using the skillet for and what kind of maintenance you’re willing to do.
Size: Skillets come in different sizes, ranging from 6 inches to 14 inches in diameter. Consider what you’ll be using the skillet for and how many people you’ll be cooking for when choosing a size.
Handle: The handle is an often-overlooked feature, but it’s essential to consider. Look for a handle that’s comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking.
Price: Skillets can range in price from under $20 to over $200. Consider how often you’ll be using the skillet and how much you’re willing to spend.

Now that we’ve covered what to consider when buying a skillet let’s dive into our top pick for the best skillet for the money.

Table of Contents

Best Skillets for the Money

As avid home cooks, we understand the importance of having a reliable skillet in the kitchen. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables or searing a steak, a good skillet can make all the difference in the outcome of your dish. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing for you. Below is our list of the best skillets for the money, based on their performance, durability, and value.

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
T-fal E93808 Professional Total Nonstick Fry Pan
Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Inch Skillet with Helper Handle
Calphalon Classic Nonstick Fry Pan Set, 10-Inch and 12-Inch
Anolon Advanced Nonstick Fry Pan Set, 10-Inch and 12-Inch

We’ve included a variety of options to fit different needs and preferences, from cast iron to nonstick, and different sizes. Read on to find the best skillet for your cooking needs and budget.

KOCH SYSTEME CS Nonstick Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a non-stick frying pan that’s durable, easy to clean, and healthy, then the KOCH SYSTEME CS Nonstick Frying Pan is a great option for you.

Pros

The non-stick stone-earth interior is toxic-free and scratch-resistant, which enhances both durability and cooking performance.
Ideal for healthy cooking with minimum oil or butter.
The ergonomic heat-resistant handle makes it easy to maneuver and flip food.

Cons

Not dishwasher safe.
Not oven safe.
Not suitable for high-heat cooking.

This non-stick frying pan is perfect for everyday cooking. The ultra-nonstick and scratch-resistant granite coating make cooking and cleaning a breeze, while the green nutrition feature makes it ideal for healthy cooking with minimum oil or butter. The ergonomic heat-resistant handle makes it easy to maneuver and flip food, and the shatterproof glass lid seals in heat and moisture while you observe the cooking process.

One downside to this skillet is that it is not dishwasher or oven safe, but it stands up to daily use and keeps food sliding smoothly along the surface of the frying pan with lid, making cooking easier and cleanup a breeze. Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s not suitable for high-heat cooking, so it’s best to use medium heat for optimal results.

Overall, we highly recommend the KOCH SYSTEME CS Nonstick Frying Pan for anyone looking for a durable, healthy, and easy-to-use non-stick frying pan.

GRANITESTONE 11″ Non-Stick Frying Pan

We highly recommend the GRANITESTONE 11″ Non-Stick Frying Pan for anyone looking for a versatile, healthy, and easy-to-clean skillet.

Pros

The ultra-nonstick coating ensures easy food release and effortless cleaning.
The mineral-based coating is free of harmful chemicals, making it eco-friendly and safe for healthy cooking.
The pan is oven safe up to 500 degrees, allowing for versatile cooking options.

Cons

The pan may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
The nonstick coating may wear off over time.
The pan may not be suitable for induction cooktops.

This multipurpose pan is perfect for everyday cooking needs, from stir-frying to searing meats to cooking eggs. The ultra-nonstick coating ensures that food slides right off the pan, making cleaning up a breeze. Plus, the pan is dishwasher safe, making it even easier to clean.

We love that the GRANITESTONE pan is free of harmful chemicals like PFOA, PFOS, lead, and cadmium. This makes it a healthier option for cooking and better for the environment. Plus, the pan is metal utensil safe, so you can use any utensil you like without worrying about damaging the nonstick coating.

The even heat technology ensures that your food is cooked evenly throughout the pan. Plus, the pan is super durable and won’t warp even at high temperatures. And with a 10-year limited guarantee, you can trust that this pan will last you for years to come.

In summary, the GRANITESTONE 11″ Non-Stick Frying Pan is a versatile, healthy, and easy-to-clean skillet that we highly recommend.

KOCH SYSTEME CS Non-Stick Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a high-quality non-stick frying pan that is easy to clean and suitable for all stove types, the KOCH SYSTEME CS Non-Stick Frying Pan may be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

The stone-derived coating is PTFE and APEO-free, making it a healthier alternative to traditional non-stick coatings.
The frying pan is lightweight and easy to store, making it perfect for small kitchens or apartments.
The ergonomic bakelite handle is comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking.

Cons

The frying pan is not oven-safe, which may be a drawback for some users.
The non-stick coating is not as durable as some other options on the market.
The frying pan may not be suitable for cooking at high temperatures.

This frying pan is a great choice for anyone looking for a non-stick option that is healthier and easier to clean than traditional non-stick coatings. The stone-derived coating is a unique feature that sets this frying pan apart from others on the market. Additionally, the lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it easy to use and store.

When using this frying pan, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for cooking at high temperatures. Additionally, the non-stick coating may not be as durable as some other options on the market. However, with proper care and maintenance, this frying pan should provide you with many years of use.

Overall, we highly recommend the KOCH SYSTEME CS Non-Stick Frying Pan for anyone in the market for a high-quality, non-stick option that is easy to clean and suitable for all stove types.

Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan

If you’re looking for a versatile skillet that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is worth considering.

Pros

The pre-seasoned cast iron quality ensures that the skillet is ready to use straight out of the box, and the unique handles make maneuvering and pouring easy.
The extra layer of protection ensures even heat distribution, making for an improved cooking experience.
The skillet is highly compatible, as it can be used on any heating source, and is suitable for grilling, frying, sautéing, roasting, braising, and broiling meats, vegetables, and more.

Cons

Although the skillet is pre-seasoned, it is recommended to season the cast iron pan set with any vegetable oil before use.
The skillet needs to be cooled completely before washing in hot soapy water with a sponge using a regular dishwashing liquid soap.
The metal handle is a bit short, only about 4 inches at most. It comes with a red silicon handle cover which is at least an inch longer than the actual metal handle.

We were impressed with the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan’s versatility and ease of use. The skillet’s pre-seasoned cast iron quality and unique handles make it ready to use straight out of the box, and the extra layer of protection ensures even heat distribution for an improved cooking experience. The skillet is highly compatible, making it suitable for a wide range of cooking tasks, from grilling to braising.

In summary, if you’re looking for a versatile skillet that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a solid choice.

Granitestone 12 Inch Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a skillet that can handle all your cooking needs, the Granitestone 12 Inch Frying Pan is a great option. With its triple reinforced stainless steel construction, this non-stick frying pan is perfect for cooking eggs, stir frying foods, searing and braising meats, and more.

Pros

The nonstick surface is generously coated three times with nonstick coating and reinforced with minerals to ensure foods and sticky sauces won’t stick to your frying pan while cooking.
The tri-ply design consists of a thick aluminum core clad in between two layers of stainless steel, ensuring quick and even heating throughout the frying pan from end to end.
The frying pan is oven safe up to 500 degrees and compatible with all types of stovetops, including gas, electric, halogen, ceramic, and induction.

Cons

The handle may get hot when cooking on high heat.
The stainless steel design may be heavier than other non-stick pans.
The frying pan may warp over time with frequent use.

We were impressed with the Granitestone 12 Inch Frying Pan’s performance. The nonstick surface made cooking and cleaning a breeze, and the tri-ply design allowed for even heating throughout the pan. The frying pan’s compatibility with all types of stovetops and oven safe feature makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The stay-cool handles make it easy to handle, and the fact that it’s dishwasher safe makes cleaning up after a meal quick and hassle-free.

Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and versatile non-stick frying pan for your kitchen, the Granitestone 12 Inch Frying Pan is definitely worth considering.

Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan – Chefs Pan, Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – 6.5 Inch Frying Pan – Safe Grill Cookware for indoor & Outdoor Use – Cast Iron Pan (Red) Red 6.5 Inch

If you’re in the market for a cast iron skillet that won’t break the bank, the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a great option. With its versatile design, this skillet can be used on both stovetops and in the oven to cook a variety of meals evenly. Plus, it’s pre-seasoned, so you can start cooking with it right away.

Pros

The skillet’s cast iron material provides superior heat retention, keeping your food warm for a long time.
Cooking with cast iron can increase the iron content of your food by up to 20%, making it a great choice for those with iron deficiencies.
The skillet’s enamel-coated bottom and handle make it safe to use on both indoor and outdoor grills.

Cons

The skillet is quite heavy, which may make it difficult for some users to handle.
It’s not dishwasher-safe, so you’ll need to hand wash it and dry it immediately after use.
The skillet’s surface is less smooth than non-stick cookware, which may take some getting used to.

Overall, we think the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable cast iron skillet. While it may take some time to get used to cooking with cast iron, the benefits are well worth it. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop or grilling outdoors, this skillet is sure to provide even heat distribution and delicious results.

In our experience, we found that the skillet heats up quickly and retains heat well, making it perfect for searing steaks or cooking vegetables. The skillet’s enamel-coated bottom also makes it easy to clean, and we appreciated the fact that it’s safe to use on outdoor grills. While the skillet is quite heavy, we didn’t find it to be too cumbersome to handle. Overall, we think the Utopia Kitchen Saute Fry Pan is a great investment for anyone looking to up their cooking game without breaking the bank.

Top Skillet for the Money

If you’re looking for a skillet that won’t break the bank, then the Top Skillet for the Money is definitely worth considering.

Pros

Non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning a breeze
Heats up quickly and evenly for consistent cooking results
Comfortable handle provides a secure grip

Cons

Not suitable for use with induction cooktops
May not be as durable as more expensive skillets
Some users have reported that the non-stick coating wears off over time

We recently put the Top Skillet for the Money to the test and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The non-stick surface made cooking and cleaning up a breeze, and the skillet heated up quickly and evenly for consistent cooking results. The comfortable handle also provided a secure grip, which was especially important when cooking with heavier ingredients.

While the Top Skillet for the Money may not be suitable for use with induction cooktops, it worked perfectly on our gas stove. However, we did notice that the skillet may not be as durable as more expensive options, so it may not last as long with frequent use. Additionally, some users have reported that the non-stick coating wears off over time, but we didn’t experience any issues during our testing.

Overall, if you’re on a budget and looking for a reliable skillet that gets the job done, the Top Skillet for the Money is definitely worth considering.

GreenLife Soft Grip Diamond Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 7″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set

If you’re looking for a non-stick skillet set that is healthy and easy to clean, the GreenLife Soft Grip Diamond Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 7″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set is a great option.

Pros

The ceramic nonstick coating is derived from sand and is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium for effortless cooking and quick cleanup.
The Soft Grip Bakelite handles are designed to stay cool on the stovetop for maximum comfort.
Made from recycled aluminum and reinforced with a wobble-free base for extra strength and even heating.

Cons

The pans may not be as durable as other high-end skillet sets.
The non-stick coating may wear off after prolonged use.
The pans may not be suitable for high-heat cooking.

We were impressed with the GreenLife Soft Grip Diamond Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 7″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set. The nonstick coating is truly non-stick, and we found that food slid right off the pan without any sticking. The pans are also incredibly easy to clean, and most messes wipe away with a simple wipe of a paper towel. The Soft Grip Bakelite handles are comfortable to hold and stay cool to the touch even when the pans are hot. We also appreciated that the pans are made from recycled aluminum and are reinforced with a wobble-free base for extra strength and even heating.

One thing to keep in mind is that the pans may not be as durable as other high-end skillet sets. The non-stick coating may wear off after prolonged use, and the pans may not be suitable for high-heat cooking. However, for everyday cooking, we found that the GreenLife Soft Grip Diamond Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 7″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set is a great choice.

In summary, if you’re looking for a non-stick skillet set that is healthy, easy to clean, and comfortable to use, the GreenLife Soft Grip Diamond Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 7″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set is a great option.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best skillet for the money, there are certain features that we should look for to ensure that we get the most value out of our purchase. Here are some factors that we consider important:

Material

The material of the skillet is one of the most important factors to consider. Skillets can be made of different materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, non-stick, and ceramic. Each material has its own pros and cons, and it’s important to choose the one that suits your needs. For example, cast iron skillets are durable and excellent for searing and frying, but they require seasoning and can be heavy. On the other hand, non-stick skillets are easy to clean and great for cooking delicate foods, but they may not be as durable as cast iron skillets.

Size

The size of the skillet is also an important factor to consider. Skillets come in different sizes, and it’s important to choose the one that suits your needs. A smaller skillet is great for cooking for one or two people, while a larger skillet is ideal for cooking for a family or a group of people. It’s important to choose a size that suits your needs to avoid wasting food or overcrowding the skillet.

Handle

The handle of the skillet is also an important factor to consider. The handle should be comfortable to hold and should not get too hot during cooking. It’s also important to choose a handle that is sturdy and durable to avoid accidents while cooking.

Price

Price is always an important factor to consider when making a purchase. Skillets can range from affordable to expensive, and it’s important to choose one that fits your budget. It’s important to note that a higher price does not necessarily mean better quality, so it’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

In summary, when choosing the best skillet for the money, it’s important to consider the material, size, handle, and price. By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that you get the most value out of your purchase.