Best Type of Skillet: Cast Iron or Stainless Steel?

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Frying pans are a crucial appliance for any cook’s kitchen. They’re adaptable, long-lasting, and suitable for preparing a variety of meals. Yet, the vast selection available can make it tough to determine the perfect frying pan for your culinary requirements. In this piece, we’re going to delve into the optimal kind of frying pan and the key factors to consider before buying one.

When it comes to skillets, there are two primary materials to choose from: stainless steel and cast iron. Stainless steel skillets are durable, easy to clean, and can be used on any stovetop. They are also lightweight and heat up quickly, making them a great option for cooking delicate foods. Cast iron skillets, on the other hand, are heavier and take longer to heat up, but they retain heat well and can be used in the oven or on a grill. They are also non-stick when properly seasoned and can last for generations.

When choosing a skillet, it’s essential to consider the size and weight. Skillets come in various sizes, from small 6-inch pans to large 12-inch pans. The size you choose will depend on the number of people you typically cook for and the types of dishes you plan to make. A heavier skillet will retain heat better and distribute it more evenly, but it can be challenging to maneuver, especially if you have wrist or hand issues.

When it comes to purchasing a skillet, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First, consider the material. Stainless steel and cast iron are the most popular options, but there are also skillets made from copper, aluminum, and other materials. Second, think about the size and weight of the skillet and how it will fit into your cooking routine. Finally, consider the price and any additional features, such as a non-stick coating or a lid.

In conclusion, the best type of skillet is one that fits your cooking needs and preferences. Whether you choose a stainless steel or cast iron skillet, make sure to consider the size, weight, and material before making a purchase. With the right skillet in hand, you’ll be able to cook up delicious meals for years to come.

Our Recommendations:

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
All-Clad Stainless Steel Skillet
T-fal Non-Stick Skillet

Table of Contents

Best Skillets

As cooking enthusiasts, we know that a good skillet is a kitchen essential. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast or preparing a gourmet dinner, a high-quality skillet can make all the difference. After extensive research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best skillets on the market. From non-stick to cast iron, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below:

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
T-fal Non-Stick Skillet
All-Clad Stainless Steel Skillet
GreenPan Ceramic Skillet
Calphalon Tri-Ply Skillet

Each of these skillets has its own unique features and benefits. We’ve included a variety of options to suit different cooking styles and preferences. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, you’re sure to find the perfect skillet for your needs.

MsMk Nonstick Frying Pan, 12 InchTitanium and Diamond Non Stick Pan, Sturdy and Durable Skillet Nonstick, for Various Stove Type, Dishwasher Safe For Home Use

If you’re in the market for a new skillet, the MsMk Nonstick Frying Pan is a solid choice. We’ve put it to the test and here’s what we found.

Pros

The 4mm-thick smooth stainless steel bottom and pan nonstick design with thick mouth and thin body allow for more even heat distribution, creating a flavorful, crispy crust on your steak.
The limestone non-stick coating from Germany, USA and GRE TUV approved, PFOA FREE, no nickel, lead and other heavy metals, making it safe for children.
The lifetime warranty ensures that you’ll be able to enjoy this skillet for years to come.

Cons

The pan is a bit heavy, which may take some getting used to.
The nonstick surface can be a bit delicate, so it’s important to use the right utensils and avoid using abrasive sponges when cleaning.
The price point is a bit higher than some other options on the market.

Overall, we think the MsMk Nonstick Frying Pan is a great investment for anyone who loves to cook. With its professional heat distribution and durable construction, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, the easy-to-clean design makes it a breeze to use and maintain.

In our experience, the MsMk Nonstick Frying Pan is perfect for cooking everything from steak to eggs to pancakes. The smooth stainless steel bottom and nonstick design allow for even heat distribution, while the limestone non-stick coating makes cleaning a breeze. And with its compatibility with gas, electric, and induction stovetops, it’s a versatile addition to any kitchen.

If you’re looking for a high-quality skillet that will last for years to come, we highly recommend the MsMk Nonstick Frying Pan. With its lifetime warranty and top-notch construction, it’s a purchase you won’t regret.

Fissler Cenit Nonstick Fry Pan

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly nonstick frying pan that can handle daily use, the Fissler Cenit series is a great option. The pan features a three-layer nonstick coating and rivet-free construction for easy cleaning and durability. Here are the pros and cons of the Fissler Cenit Nonstick Fry Pan.

Pros

Achieve delicious frying results with the 3-layer non-stick coating
Ideal heat distribution and suitable for all types of stoves
High pan body allows even large portions to be prepared perfectly and turned effortlessly

Cons

Not oven safe
Hand wash only
Some users have reported quality control issues

The Fissler Cenit Nonstick Fry Pan is a practical and comfortable choice for everyday cooking. The ergonomic handle is easy to grip and lies securely in the hand, making it easy to maneuver the pan as you cook. The high pan body allows you to prepare large portions with ease, and the nonstick coating ensures that your food won’t stick or burn.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Fissler Cenit Nonstick Fry Pan is not oven safe, so you’ll need to transfer your food to a different dish if you want to finish it in the oven. Additionally, the pan should be hand washed to avoid damaging the nonstick coating. Some users have also reported quality control issues, so be sure to inspect your pan carefully when you receive it.

Overall, the Fissler Cenit Nonstick Fry Pan is a clever and practical choice for home chefs who want high-quality cookware without breaking the bank.

Jean-Patrique Stonetastic Granite Nonstick Frying Pans – Set of 3 Induction Frying Pans Non Stick – Frying Pan Set for All Types of Stove Tops & Oven Safe 7.8 inch, 9.4 inch, 11 inch

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable set of non-stick frying pans, the Jean-Patrique Stonetastic Granite Nonstick Frying Pans are an excellent choice.

Pros

The granite coating provides a non-stick, scratch-resistant surface that makes cooking a breeze and cleaning even easier.
The pans are constructed from forged aluminum with a granite coating for outstanding strength and durability.
The set includes three versatile sizes perfect for any task, Small (20 cm / 7.8 inch diameter), Medium (24 cm / 9.4 inch diameter) and Large (28 cm / 11 inch diameter).

Cons

The handles get very hot, so you need to use an oven mitt when cooking.
The pans are not flat, they are humped up in the middle, which can cause oil to go to the outside of the pans and nothing in the middle.
The pans are not oven safe.

The Jean-Patrique Stonetastic Granite Nonstick Frying Pans are compatible with all stove tops including induction stoves, electric stoves, ceramic stoves, and gas stoves. They are also oven safe up to 280 °C.

These pans are extremely light and easy to clean. The food does not stick at all, and they minimize the need for oil and butter when frying. The handles are made from high-strength stainless steel, and the set includes three versatile sizes perfect for any task.

Overall, we highly recommend the Jean-Patrique Stonetastic Granite Nonstick Frying Pans for anyone looking for a versatile and durable set of non-stick frying pans. They are a great value for the price and will last you a lifetime.

Tramontina Professional Stainless Steel Frying pan, Diameter 30 cm

If you’re looking for a durable and classic design frying pan that gives you excellent results, the Tramontina Professional Stainless Steel Frying pan is a great choice. Made of high-grade 18/10 stainless steel with non-stick coating, this frying pan is ideal for low-fat and reduced calorie roasting of meat, vegetables, fish, and egg dishes. It is also suitable for all types of cookers, including induction.

Pros

The high-quality 18/10 stainless steel material makes this frying pan durable and long-lasting.
The non-stick coating makes it easy to cook with and clean up.
The 30 cm diameter is perfect for cooking large meals for a family or group.

Cons

The handle may get hot during cooking, so be careful when handling the pan.
The frying pan is not oven safe, so you’ll need to transfer your food to a different dish if you need to finish cooking it in the oven.
The price point may be higher than other frying pans on the market.

We’ve been using the Tramontina Professional Stainless Steel Frying pan for a while now, and we’ve been impressed with its performance. The stainless steel material is of high quality and feels very durable. We’ve used it to cook a variety of dishes, including meats, vegetables, and eggs, and everything has turned out great. The non-stick coating makes it easy to cook with and clean up, which is always a plus.

One thing to note is that the handle may get hot during cooking, so be sure to use a pot holder or oven mitt when handling the pan. Additionally, the frying pan is not oven safe, so if you need to finish cooking your food in the oven, you’ll need to transfer it to a different dish.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Tramontina Professional Stainless Steel Frying pan to anyone in the market for a high-quality and durable frying pan. It may be a bit pricier than other options, but we believe the quality and performance make it worth the investment.

Tefal E49706 Eternal Mesh Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a frying pan that can help you cook your ingredients perfectly, then the Tefal E49706 Eternal Mesh Frying Pan might be the right choice for you.

Pros

The scratch-resistant mesh coating makes the pan easier to clean compared to uncoated stainless steel products.
The triple layer frying pan made of stainless steel/aluminium/stainless steel ensures perfect searing and even cooking.
The Tefal E49706 frying pan is suitable for all types of cookers, including induction hobs.

Cons

Some foods may stick to the pan, so it’s important to control the heat and learn how to use it properly.
The pan is not dishwasher safe.
The price of the Tefal E49706 frying pan is slightly higher than other frying pans in the market.

The Tefal E49706 frying pan is a great choice for those who want to benefit from the extraordinary properties of stainless steel. The innovative mesh coating ensures that food sticks less easily, making the pan easier to clean compared to uncoated stainless steel products. The triple layer frying pan made of stainless steel/aluminium/stainless steel ensures perfect searing and even cooking, with a 50% improved heat distribution than a single layer stainless steel product.

The Tefal E49706 frying pan is 100% safe, as it is PFOA, lead, and cadmium free thanks to more stringent controls that go beyond the current regulations for materials that come into contact with food. The pan is suitable for all types of cookers, including induction hobs, and is oven-safe up to max. 250°.

However, it’s important to note that some foods may stick to the pan, so it’s important to control the heat and learn how to use it properly. Additionally, the pan is not dishwasher safe, so it needs to be washed by hand. Finally, the price of the Tefal E49706 frying pan is slightly higher than other frying pans in the market.

In summary, if you’re looking for a frying pan that can help you cook your ingredients perfectly, then the Tefal E49706 Eternal Mesh Frying Pan might be the right choice for you.

Pearl Metal HB-1045 Ultra Deep Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a durable and versatile skillet that can handle any cooking task, the Pearl Metal HB-1045 Ultra Deep Frying Pan is an excellent choice.

Pros

The all-iron construction makes it incredibly durable and perfect for professional use.
The deep design is ideal for frying and cooking dishes with lots of liquid.
The pouring spouts on both sides make it easy to serve and strain sauces.

Cons

The handle can get quite hot when cooking at high temperatures.
It’s not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to clean it by hand.
It’s not oven safe, so you can’t use it for baking or broiling.

This skillet is made of iron, which means it’s incredibly durable and can withstand high heat without warping or cracking. The deep design is perfect for frying and cooking dishes with lots of liquid, and the pouring spouts on both sides make it easy to serve and strain sauces.

One thing to keep in mind is that the handle can get quite hot when cooking at high temperatures, so you’ll need to use a potholder or oven mitt to avoid burning yourself. Additionally, this skillet is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to clean it by hand. Finally, it’s not oven safe, so you can’t use it for baking or broiling.

Overall, we highly recommend the Pearl Metal HB-1045 Ultra Deep Frying Pan for anyone looking for a durable and versatile skillet that can handle any cooking task. Its all-iron construction, deep design, and pouring spouts make it an excellent choice for frying and cooking dishes with lots of liquid.

Fiskars Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly frying pan, the Fiskars Frying Pan is a great option.

Pros

The pan is made of 70% recycled material, making it an eco-friendly choice.
The Hardtec coating ensures that the food doesn’t stick to the pan, making it easy to clean.
The Bakelite handle stays cool even when the pan is hot, making it safe to use.

Cons

The pan is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand rinsing to protect the coating.
The pan is not suitable for use with metal utensils, as they can scratch the surface.
The pan is only heat-resistant up to 150 degrees Celsius, so it’s not suitable for high-temperature cooking.

The Fiskars Frying Pan is perfect for frying and cooking vegetables, meat, and fish. It works on all types of hobs, including gas, electric, and induction. The pan heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring perfect cooking results with little oil. The low weight of the pan makes it easy to handle, and the stackable design saves space in your kitchen.

The Fiskars Frying Pan is without PFOA/PFAS, making it a healthier choice for cooking. The pan is made in Finland and consists of 70% recycled material, making it an eco-friendly option. The Hardtec coating ensures that the food doesn’t stick to the pan, making it easy to clean. The Bakelite handle stays cool even when the pan is hot, making it safe to use.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and reliable frying pan, the Fiskars Frying Pan is a great option. It’s perfect for frying and cooking vegetables, meat, and fish, and works on all types of hobs. The Hardtec coating ensures that the food doesn’t stick to the pan, and the Bakelite handle stays cool even when the pan is hot, making it safe to use.

AUDANNE Frying Pans with Lid

If you’re looking for a skillet that is both safe and healthy, the AUDANNE Frying Pans with Lid is a great choice.

Pros

The honeycomb fry pan bottom allows for even heat distribution, making it perfect for cooking all kinds of dishes, from delicate eggs to hearty steaks, quickly and evenly.
The skillet is made of high-quality stainless steel, which is non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals such as PFA and PFOA, making it a safe and healthy choice for you and your family.
The fry pan is made with 3-ply construction, honeycomb structured design which is withstanding high temperatures and resist scratches. So you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals leaching into your food or scratches ruining your pan.

Cons

The skillet is not completely non-stick, so some foods may stick to the pan.
The skillet is not oven safe.
The skillet is relatively heavy.

We were impressed with the AUDANNE Frying Pans with Lid. The honeycomb design of the pan bottom allowed for even heating, which made cooking a breeze. The skillet was easy to clean and we appreciated that it was made of non-toxic materials. However, the skillet was not completely non-stick, so some foods did stick to the pan. Additionally, the skillet is not oven safe, which may be a drawback for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, we would highly recommend the AUDANNE Frying Pans with Lid for anyone looking for a safe and healthy skillet that is great for everyday cooking.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best skillet, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind before making a purchase:

Material

The material of the skillet is an important factor to consider. Skillets are commonly made from materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick coatings. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. For example, cast iron skillets are known for their durability and ability to retain heat, while non-stick coatings are great for cooking delicate foods like eggs.

Size

The size of the skillet is another important consideration. Skillets come in a variety of sizes, from small 6-inch pans to large 12-inch pans. The size you choose will depend on your cooking needs. If you’re cooking for one or two people, a smaller skillet may be sufficient. However, if you’re cooking for a family or entertaining guests, a larger skillet may be necessary.

Handle

The handle of the skillet is also an important factor to consider. Look for a handle that is comfortable to hold and stays cool to the touch. Some skillets have a long handle, while others have a short handle and a second “helper” handle. The type of handle you choose will depend on your personal preference and cooking style.

Maintenance

Finally, consider the maintenance required for the skillet. Some materials, like cast iron, require seasoning and special cleaning techniques. Other materials, like stainless steel, are dishwasher safe and easy to clean. Make sure you choose a skillet that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.

Overall, when choosing the best skillet, it’s important to consider the material, size, handle, and maintenance required. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a skillet that fits your cooking needs and preferences.

Here’s a quick summary of what to look for:

Material: Choose a material that fits your cooking needs, such as cast iron for durability or non-stick coatings for delicate foods.
Size: Choose a size that fits your cooking needs, such as a smaller skillet for one or two people or a larger skillet for a family or entertaining guests.
Handle: Choose a handle that is comfortable to hold and stays cool to the touch, and consider whether a second “helper” handle is necessary.
Maintenance: Choose a skillet that fits your maintenance preferences, whether that’s easy-to-clean stainless steel or seasoned cast iron.