In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsThe Bottom LineChoosing a Nonstick SkilletOur Nonstick Skillet TestsWe Also ConsideredCommon QuestionsOur Trusted Expertise
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
The Bottom Line
Choosing a Nonstick Skillet
Our Nonstick Skillet Tests
We Also Considered
Common Questions
Our Trusted Expertise
Photo:Courtesy of Brand
Courtesy of Brand
Nonstick skillets remain among the most versatile kitchen workhorses. Ideal for cooking eggs, sautéing low-fat foods, and even searing, these pans are essential for every level of home cook. “Beyond being much easier to clean, nonstick pans are a great tool to reduce the amount of oil that is needed in cooking,” saysElizabeth Huggins, M.S., RD, registered dietitian/nutritionist at Hilton Head Health. “This can help any home cook use less oil tocreate a delicious mealwhile reducing extra calories and preventing food from sticking to the pan.”Of course, for your nonstick skillet to be a well-lovedkitchen staple, it has to earn its place in your cupboard. That’s why our Test Kitchen fried, seared and sautéed with dozens of different nonstick pans to find the best-performing ones on the market. Read on for our top picks.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan at Amazon$129Jump to ReviewAlso Great:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch at Amazon$80Jump to ReviewBest 8-Inch Skillet:OXO Frying Pan Skillet at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest 12-Inch Skillet:Le Creuset Fry Pan at Amazon$158Jump to ReviewBest Frying Pan Set:KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece at Amazon$80Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:SALEAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch at Amazon$190$148Jump to ReviewBest Budget Pick:Amazon Basics Frying Pan Set at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic:Caraway Frying Pan at Amazon$95Jump to Review
Nonstick skillets remain among the most versatile kitchen workhorses. Ideal for cooking eggs, sautéing low-fat foods, and even searing, these pans are essential for every level of home cook. “Beyond being much easier to clean, nonstick pans are a great tool to reduce the amount of oil that is needed in cooking,” saysElizabeth Huggins, M.S., RD, registered dietitian/nutritionist at Hilton Head Health. “This can help any home cook use less oil tocreate a delicious mealwhile reducing extra calories and preventing food from sticking to the pan.”
Of course, for your nonstick skillet to be a well-lovedkitchen staple, it has to earn its place in your cupboard. That’s why our Test Kitchen fried, seared and sautéed with dozens of different nonstick pans to find the best-performing ones on the market. Read on for our top picks.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan at Amazon$129Jump to ReviewAlso Great:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch at Amazon$80Jump to ReviewBest 8-Inch Skillet:OXO Frying Pan Skillet at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest 12-Inch Skillet:Le Creuset Fry Pan at Amazon$158Jump to ReviewBest Frying Pan Set:KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece at Amazon$80Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:SALEAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch at Amazon$190$148Jump to ReviewBest Budget Pick:Amazon Basics Frying Pan Set at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic:Caraway Frying Pan at Amazon$95Jump to Review
Best Overall:Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan at Amazon$129Jump to ReviewAlso Great:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch at Amazon$80Jump to ReviewBest 8-Inch Skillet:OXO Frying Pan Skillet at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest 12-Inch Skillet:Le Creuset Fry Pan at Amazon$158Jump to ReviewBest Frying Pan Set:KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece at Amazon$80Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:SALEAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch at Amazon$190$148Jump to ReviewBest Budget Pick:Amazon Basics Frying Pan Set at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic:Caraway Frying Pan at Amazon$95Jump to Review
Best Overall:Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan at Amazon$129Jump to Review
Best Overall:Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan at Amazon$129
Best Overall:
Also Great:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch at Amazon$80Jump to Review
Also Great:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch at Amazon$80
Also Great:
Best 8-Inch Skillet:OXO Frying Pan Skillet at Amazon$50Jump to Review
Best 8-Inch Skillet:OXO Frying Pan Skillet at Amazon$50
Best 8-Inch Skillet:
Best 12-Inch Skillet:Le Creuset Fry Pan at Amazon$158Jump to Review
Best 12-Inch Skillet:Le Creuset Fry Pan at Amazon$158
Best 12-Inch Skillet:
Best Frying Pan Set:KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece at Amazon$80Jump to Review
Best Frying Pan Set:KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece at Amazon$80
Best Frying Pan Set:
Best Splurge:SALEAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch at Amazon$190$148Jump to Review
Best Splurge:SALEAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch at Amazon$190$148
Best Splurge:
SALE
Best Budget Pick:Amazon Basics Frying Pan Set at Amazon$36Jump to Review
Best Budget Pick:Amazon Basics Frying Pan Set at Amazon$36
Best Budget Pick:
Best Ceramic:Caraway Frying Pan at Amazon$95Jump to Review
Best Ceramic:Caraway Frying Pan at Amazon$95
Best Ceramic:
Best OverallMade In Cookware Nonstick Frying PanPHOTO: Amazon$129 at Amazon$139 at Walmart$397$349 at Madeincookware.comWhat we like:This pan exhibited excellent heat conduction during testing, with a slick, nonstick surface that made cleanup a breeze.What to know:This model is not dishwasher-safe.This pan pairs a stainless steel construction with a professional-grade nonstick surface and is oven-safe up to 500°F. As an essential safety measure, the handle stays temperate, even over a high flame. We also like how you can choose from several different interior colors, such as graphite or blue, which gives this pan added aesthetic appeal.The slick, nonstick coating and quick heat conduction made this pan one of our favorites in testing. Eggs and salmon—two notoriously sticky foods—slid effortlessly onto a plate without adhering to the inside of the pan. While the Made In frying pan felt hefty, it was comfortable to handle, and the curve of the sides allowed us to flip and move food around without spillage. While this piece is not dishwasher-safe, we quickly removed any food remnants with a quick swipe of a paper towel.Size:10 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F |Dishwasher safe:No
Best OverallMade In Cookware Nonstick Frying PanPHOTO: Amazon$129 at Amazon$139 at Walmart$397$349 at Madeincookware.com
Best OverallMade In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan
Best Overall
Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan
PHOTO: Amazon
$129 at Amazon$139 at Walmart$397$349 at Madeincookware.com
What we like:This pan exhibited excellent heat conduction during testing, with a slick, nonstick surface that made cleanup a breeze.
What to know:This model is not dishwasher-safe.
This pan pairs a stainless steel construction with a professional-grade nonstick surface and is oven-safe up to 500°F. As an essential safety measure, the handle stays temperate, even over a high flame. We also like how you can choose from several different interior colors, such as graphite or blue, which gives this pan added aesthetic appeal.
The slick, nonstick coating and quick heat conduction made this pan one of our favorites in testing. Eggs and salmon—two notoriously sticky foods—slid effortlessly onto a plate without adhering to the inside of the pan. While the Made In frying pan felt hefty, it was comfortable to handle, and the curve of the sides allowed us to flip and move food around without spillage. While this piece is not dishwasher-safe, we quickly removed any food remnants with a quick swipe of a paper towel.
Size:10 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F |Dishwasher safe:No
Also GreatAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-InchPHOTO: Amazon$80 at Amazon$80 at Target$120 at WayfairWhat we like:The nonstick surface on this pan is tough enough to handle metal utensils (within reason!).What to know:This pan is not compatible with induction stoves.The Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet is available in 8.25-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch sizes. We preferred the petite 8.25-inch pan, which seared salmon and cooked an egg without sticking. The pan’s ergonomic handle stays cool on the stove and is easy to clean thanks to details like rivets flush with the pan’s surface (never underestimate the power of small details like these). As a result, the pan cleans easily in the dishwasher and is oven-safe to 500°F. Induction range owners should be forewarned, however, that this aluminum-based pan is not induction-compatible. Still, at under $100, we feel the Anolon is one of the best nonstick pans on the market.Size:8.25 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F |Dishwasher safe:YesPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Also GreatAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-InchPHOTO: Amazon$80 at Amazon$80 at Target$120 at Wayfair
Also GreatAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch
Also Great
Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet 8.25-Inch
$80 at Amazon$80 at Target$120 at Wayfair
What we like:The nonstick surface on this pan is tough enough to handle metal utensils (within reason!).
What to know:This pan is not compatible with induction stoves.
The Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet is available in 8.25-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch sizes. We preferred the petite 8.25-inch pan, which seared salmon and cooked an egg without sticking. The pan’s ergonomic handle stays cool on the stove and is easy to clean thanks to details like rivets flush with the pan’s surface (never underestimate the power of small details like these). As a result, the pan cleans easily in the dishwasher and is oven-safe to 500°F. Induction range owners should be forewarned, however, that this aluminum-based pan is not induction-compatible. Still, at under $100, we feel the Anolon is one of the best nonstick pans on the market.
Size:8.25 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F |Dishwasher safe:Yes
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best 8-Inch SkilletOXO Frying Pan SkilletPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon$50 at Target$50 at WayfairWhat we like:PFAS- and PFOA-free, this pan is oven-safe to 600°F.What to know:The deep shape of the pan can cause food to steam instead of fry if you’re not careful.This OXO pan is made from hard-anodized aluminum, ensuring quick and even heat. We referred to this frying pan as a “sleeper hit” for its high scores in durability and ease of cleaning. The pan’s rounded and deep shape offers more room than the traditional skillet, and thePFAS- and PFOA-freenonstick interior prevents challenging foods from sticking. Among the pans we tested, the OXO had the highest oven-safe temperature, at 600°F. It’s also dishwasher-safe, yet another reason to consider this all-around excellent—and affordable—8-inch pan.Size:8 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 600°F |Dishwasher safe:Yes
Best 8-Inch SkilletOXO Frying Pan SkilletPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon$50 at Target$50 at Wayfair
Best 8-Inch SkilletOXO Frying Pan Skillet
Best 8-Inch Skillet
OXO Frying Pan Skillet
$50 at Amazon$50 at Target$50 at Wayfair
What we like:PFAS- and PFOA-free, this pan is oven-safe to 600°F.
What to know:The deep shape of the pan can cause food to steam instead of fry if you’re not careful.
This OXO pan is made from hard-anodized aluminum, ensuring quick and even heat. We referred to this frying pan as a “sleeper hit” for its high scores in durability and ease of cleaning. The pan’s rounded and deep shape offers more room than the traditional skillet, and thePFAS- and PFOA-freenonstick interior prevents challenging foods from sticking. Among the pans we tested, the OXO had the highest oven-safe temperature, at 600°F. It’s also dishwasher-safe, yet another reason to consider this all-around excellent—and affordable—8-inch pan.
Size:8 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 600°F |Dishwasher safe:Yes
Best 12-Inch SkilletLe Creuset Fry PanPHOTO: Amazon$158 at Amazon$158 at Nordstrom$110 at Sur La Table$158 at Amazon$158 at Lecreuset.comWhat we like:The Le Creuset can be used with metal utensils (though silicone remains best), and its textured interior allows food to brown better than most models.What to know:As the second-most expensive pan on our list, this is a splurge.A steady, even heat defines the Le Creuset frying pan, and this model lived up to its reputation. Eggs slid easily out of the pan, and the salmon cooked consistently and achieved even browning throughout. Unlike many comparably priced nonstick skillets, you can use metal utensils on these pans, and they’re oven-safe to 500°F (this only applies to the pans, not the lids). They are also dishwasher-safe and induction-compatible.While the Le Creuset cleaned up quickly, we found that food particles got stuck in the pan’s rivets, requiring a little extra scrubbing. This pan is also hefty, but the uniform cooking we experienced more than makes up for it.Size:12 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F (pan only, not lid) |Dishwasher safe:YesPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best 12-Inch SkilletLe Creuset Fry PanPHOTO: Amazon$158 at Amazon$158 at Nordstrom$110 at Sur La Table
Best 12-Inch SkilletLe Creuset Fry Pan
Best 12-Inch Skillet
Le Creuset Fry Pan
$158 at Amazon$158 at Nordstrom$110 at Sur La Table
$158 at Amazon$158 at Lecreuset.com
What we like:The Le Creuset can be used with metal utensils (though silicone remains best), and its textured interior allows food to brown better than most models.
What to know:As the second-most expensive pan on our list, this is a splurge.
A steady, even heat defines the Le Creuset frying pan, and this model lived up to its reputation. Eggs slid easily out of the pan, and the salmon cooked consistently and achieved even browning throughout. Unlike many comparably priced nonstick skillets, you can use metal utensils on these pans, and they’re oven-safe to 500°F (this only applies to the pans, not the lids). They are also dishwasher-safe and induction-compatible.
While the Le Creuset cleaned up quickly, we found that food particles got stuck in the pan’s rivets, requiring a little extra scrubbing. This pan is also hefty, but the uniform cooking we experienced more than makes up for it.
Size:12 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F (pan only, not lid) |Dishwasher safe:Yes
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Frying Pan SetKitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 PiecePHOTO: Amazon$80 at AmazonWhat we like:We found this induction-compatible set to be both durable and a great value.What to know:The set’s lids are only oven-safe to 350°F.This set got high marks with us for its performance, design and durability. Made from hard-anodized aluminum, this set, which includes an 8.25-inch pan, 10-inch pan, and lid, is designed with a heavy, forged base to assist with heat distribution. We found that food heated quickly and evenly and that the triple layer of nonstick released food quickly and easily. This dishwasher-safe set is also oven-safe up to 500°F, but note that this does not include the lids.Size:8.25 and 10 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F (pans only, not lids) |Dishwasher safe:Yes
Best Frying Pan SetKitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 PiecePHOTO: Amazon$80 at Amazon
Best Frying Pan SetKitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece
Best Frying Pan Set
KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set 3 Piece
$80 at Amazon
What we like:We found this induction-compatible set to be both durable and a great value.
What to know:The set’s lids are only oven-safe to 350°F.
This set got high marks with us for its performance, design and durability. Made from hard-anodized aluminum, this set, which includes an 8.25-inch pan, 10-inch pan, and lid, is designed with a heavy, forged base to assist with heat distribution. We found that food heated quickly and evenly and that the triple layer of nonstick released food quickly and easily. This dishwasher-safe set is also oven-safe up to 500°F, but note that this does not include the lids.
Size:8.25 and 10 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F (pans only, not lids) |Dishwasher safe:Yes
Best SplurgeAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inchPHOTO: Amazon$190$148 at Amazon$150 at Williams Sonoma$150 at Bloomingdales
Best SplurgeAll-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch
Best Splurge
All-Clad Stainless Tri-Ply Fry Pan, 12-inch
$190$148 at Amazon$150 at Williams Sonoma$150 at Bloomingdales
What we like:This durable piece heats evenly and quickly, thanks to its stainless steel construction, and features a lifetime warranty.
What to know:This pan is the most expensive on our list.
Size:10 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 500°F |Dishwasher safe:Yes
Best Budget PickAmazon Basics Frying Pan SetPHOTO: Amazon$36 at Amazon
Best Budget PickAmazon Basics Frying Pan Set
Best Budget Pick
Amazon Basics Frying Pan Set
$36 at Amazon
What we like:We found this set’s pans affordable and easy to clean.
Size:8, 10, and 12 inches |Induction Compatible:No |Oven safe:No |Dishwasher safe:No
Best CeramicCaraway Frying PanPHOTO: Amazon$95 at Amazon$95 at Target$95 at Sur La TableWhat we like:This ceramic pan is not only design-forward, it’s also PFAS- and PFOA-free.What to know:This model isn’t dishwasher safe.Attractive and high-performing, Caraway was our clear favorite in the ceramic nonstick category. We found the price point—under $100—digestible, and the pan itself user-friendly, with oven-safe capability to 550°F. These chic pans also come in six different colorways, a draw for those looking to add some design-centric nonstick pizzazz to their kitchens. Useful on any kind of stovetop, including induction, these PFAS- and PFOA-free pans get exceptionally high marks for design and size, and even with daily use, this model showed no signs of wear and tear. However, it’s helpful to remember that these cannot go in the dishwasher, so be prepared to do a little scrubbing.Size:10.5 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 550°F |Dishwasher safe:NoPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyThe Best Cookware Sets, Tested and Reviewed
Best CeramicCaraway Frying PanPHOTO: Amazon$95 at Amazon$95 at Target$95 at Sur La Table
Best CeramicCaraway Frying Pan
Best Ceramic
Caraway Frying Pan
$95 at Amazon$95 at Target$95 at Sur La Table
What we like:This ceramic pan is not only design-forward, it’s also PFAS- and PFOA-free.
What to know:This model isn’t dishwasher safe.
Attractive and high-performing, Caraway was our clear favorite in the ceramic nonstick category. We found the price point—under $100—digestible, and the pan itself user-friendly, with oven-safe capability to 550°F. These chic pans also come in six different colorways, a draw for those looking to add some design-centric nonstick pizzazz to their kitchens. Useful on any kind of stovetop, including induction, these PFAS- and PFOA-free pans get exceptionally high marks for design and size, and even with daily use, this model showed no signs of wear and tear. However, it’s helpful to remember that these cannot go in the dishwasher, so be prepared to do a little scrubbing.
Size:10.5 inches |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven safe:to 550°F |Dishwasher safe:No
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
The Best Cookware Sets, Tested and Reviewed
The Bottom Line: The Best Nonstick Skillet
Our top overall pick, theMade In Nonstick Frying Pan(view at Amazon), is a high-performing pan that will stand the test of time. We also liked the ergonomic, stick-freeAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet(view at Amazon), a dishwasher-friendly pan that costs under $100.
Which Coating Works Best for You?
You may have heard aboutthe debateabout safety regarding nonstick pans, particularly concerning coatings, which can contain PFOA (a chemical additive) and PTFE or a proprietary compound known as Teflon. From existing research, it remains unknown how toxic exposure to small levels of these coatings can be to people who cook with these pans.
“As for modern Teflon, it is considered safe to cook with, as long as the manufacturer’s instructions are followed,” Huggins says. “Most importantly, one should avoid exposing Teflon cookware to temperatures over 500°F. ”Very high temperatures, she says, can break down the cookware’s surface, exposing the chemicals and making them more susceptible to consumption.
Ceramic nonstick skilletsare made from aluminum and coated in ceramic, which can be a good option for people who avoid Teflon-coated pans. However, the long-term effects of using these ceramic-coated pans remain largely unknown. For this guide, we tested ceramic-coated and regular nonstick-coated pans.
The coating of the pan you choose, Huggins says, may impact the efficacy of your pan, too. “Ceramic pans may take longer to heat up,” she says, though that may not be the only determining factor that guides which pan you choose.
Hard-anodized pans, another common nonstick option, are made from aluminum that has been hardened and sealed to the pan’s surface through an electrochemical process. These pans are extremely strong and less prone to chipping than other types of nonstick pans.
The Best Nonstick Cookware Sets, According to Our Test Kitchen
Choose a Size That Works for Your Needs
Nonstick frying pans come in a wide variety of sizes, but for this guide, we tested pans ranging in size from 8 to 12 inches. Most home cooks will require pans of varying sizes, and we recommendowning sizes in multiple diametersto accommodate different cooking tasks. Depending on your personal needs, you may find that a smaller—or larger—nonstick pan is right for you. Larger pans are heavier and can be more challenging to clean and store, but they also have a larger cooking surface. These are better for homes with larger families, for instance, or for people who tend to entertain more frequently.
Pick Your Price Point
“There are so many nonstick pans available that will fit any price point or preference,” Huggins says. Consumers should begin with a budget in mind and then decide which size and coating they prefer. It’s also important to consider secondary value points, like whether or not a pan is oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, and induction-compatible, assuming this is relevant to your lifestyle.
In addition to the nonstick frying pans we included in this guide, we also considered others in testing. Other options we considered included:
Great Jones Large Fry Nonstick Frying Pan($105 at Great Jones):This ceramic nonstick skillet has nice touches like a welded handle, which means no awkward screws or rivets to clean around, and this pan is comfortable to hold while using. So far we’re fans, but we’re conducting ongoing testing to ensure its ceramic surface continues to hold up to everyday use.
Farberware Dishwasher-Safe Nonstick Pots and Pans Set(from $80 at Amazon):We liked this pan across the board but did not feel it had high enough marks to move it into the top tier regarding design, ease of use, and performance.
Rachel Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet($30 at Amazon):Performance and design were two sticking points for us on this otherwise very solid nonstick.
Circulon SteelShield Induction Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan/Skillet($40 at Amazon):We felt that some other pans were better designed than the Circulon, ultimately leaving it out of the top running.
EatingWell / Katie Tuttle
Are nonstick skillets safe?
Nonstick skillets are often coated with substances like PTFE (commonly known as Teflon), which gives the skillet a slick surface that makes flipping pancakes or frying eggs a breeze. However, therehas been some concernabout the potential release of toxic fumes when these pans are subjected to high heat.
However, nonstick pans, says Huggins, are safe to use as long as you pay attention to your pans and are mindful of signs of breakage. Using pans correctly, she adds, will ensure the safety of your pans. “This includes not using pans in high temperatures (over 500°F) and watching out for damage, chipping, etc. to the cookware’s finish,” she says.
With nonstick skillets, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use them at recommended temperatures. You can also consider alternatives like ceramic-coated pans orgood old cast iron.
How do you clean a nonstick skillet?
To ensure your nonstick frying pan’s longevity, you’ll want to treat it with a little extra care. After cooking, it’s best to let your pan cool down a bit before you start the cleaning process. Skip the abrasive pads and aggressive scrubbing, as these can damage the nonstick coating. Opt for a soft sponge or cloth paired with a mild dish soap. For stubborn bits of food, a soak in warm, soapy water will do the trick. While some nonstick frying pans can be washed in the dishwasher, check the manufacturer’s instructions, as the high heat and strong detergents can wreak havoc on some nonstick coatings.
What’s the difference between a nonstick skillet and a cast-iron skillet?
A cast-iron frying pan is made from iron that may or may not be coated in enamel.A well-seasoned cast-iron skilletcan be surprisingly stick-free, and has the added benefit of imbuing your meals withtrace amounts of iron. On the other hand, nonstick frying pans are typically crafted from stainless steel, aluminum or another lightweight metal and are always coated with a slick surface. That surface is either ceramic or another type of coating, like PTFE, the polymer also used to produce Teflon.
Can I put a nonstick skillet in the oven?
Whether or not you can put a nonstick skillet in the oven depends on the skillet. Most nonstick frying pans are oven-safe up to 500°F, but exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended temperature limits can damage the nonstick coating, or you could release harmful chemicals into the air or your food. Additional factors, such as the type of handle and whether the skillet has any plastic or silicone parts, must also be considered. Ultimately, it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your nonstick skillet or, worse, putting your safety at risk.
How long do nonstick skillets last?
How long your nonstick skillet lasts depends on many factors, such as the type of nonstick coating, amount of usage and how well your pan has been maintained. While nonstick cookware can last for years, you should replace it if it’s scratched, discolored or warped.
To extend the life of your nonstick skillet, be sure to only use kitchen utensils made of wood or silicone to avoid gouging your pans. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool when cleaning your nonstick cookware, and don’t heat your pan to temperatures that exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations. Finally, proper storage can go a long way toward preserving the life of your nonstick frying pan: Stacking your nonstick cookware without placing a buffer in between the pans can cause dings and scratches. If you don’t have space for a storage rack to separate your nonstick cookware, even something as simple as placing a paper plate in between your pans can help protect them.
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