Best Skillets for Home Cooking: Top Picks for Every Kitchen

Skillets are a staple in any kitchen and are incredibly versatile. They can be used to cook everything from pancakes to stir-fry to steak. A good skillet should be able to heat evenly, have a non-stick surface, and be durable enough to last for years.

When looking for the best skillet, there are a few critical things to consider. First, the material of the skillet can affect its performance. Cast iron skillets are known for their ability to retain heat and create a crispy crust, while stainless steel skillets are more lightweight and easier to clean. Non-stick coatings can make cooking and cleaning a breeze, but they may not be as durable as other materials.

Size is another important factor to consider. Skillets come in a range of sizes, from small 6-inch pans to large 12-inch pans. The size you choose will depend on what you plan to cook and how many people you are cooking for.

After researching and testing various skillets, we have identified the top choices for the best skillets on the market. These skillets have been chosen based on their performance, durability, and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, these skillets are sure to make your cooking experience more enjoyable.

Best Skillets

When it comes to cooking, a good skillet is a must-have in any kitchen. Whether you’re searing a steak, frying an egg, or sautéing vegetables, a quality skillet can make all the difference. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best skillets available on Amazon. We’ve tested and researched numerous skillets to bring you our top picks. Read on to find the perfect skillet for your cooking needs.

1) T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set 2 Piece, 10, 12 Inch, Oven Broiler Safe 400F, Cookware, Pots and Pans Set Non Stick, Kitchen Frying Pans, Skillets, Dishwasher Safe, Grey 2-Piece

If you’re in the market for a new non-stick skillet set, the T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set is a great option to consider.

We recently had the opportunity to use the T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set, and were impressed with its performance. The set includes a 10 inch fry pan and a 12 inch fry pan, both of which are oven and broiler safe up to 400°F.

The hard anodized exterior and forged design make these pans extremely durable and able to withstand the test of time. The titanium non-stick coating ensures that food slides smoothly and makes cleanup a breeze.

One of the standout features of this set is the Thermo-Spot heat indicator. This unique feature turns solid red when pans are properly preheated, making it easy to know when to start cooking for perfect results every time.

While the set is not compatible with induction stovetops, it is suitable for all other stove tops. However, the pans may warp if exposed to high heat for extended periods of time.

The riveted silicone handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, though they can get hot and may require the use of oven mitts. Overall, we would highly recommend the T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set for anyone in need of a reliable and durable non-stick skillet set.

2) Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet

We highly recommend the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet for anyone looking for a versatile and durable addition to their kitchen.

We found that breakfast in particular tasted extra hearty when cooked in this heavy cast-iron skillet. The skillet is perfect for frying up eggs, pancakes, steaks, chicken, hamburgers, and can bake desserts and casseroles as well. The skillet comes pre-seasoned, but applying a little vegetable oil before use helps prevent food from sticking.

The skillet is virtually indestructible and should last for generations. It is covered by a lifetime warranty and is made in the USA with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material. It is important to note that the skillet is not dishwasher safe and should be hand washed only.

Overall, the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is a must-have kitchen tool for beginners, home cooks, and chefs alike. It can handle any kitchen cooktop, oven, grill, and open flame, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality skillet that heats evenly and is easy to clean, the Cuisinart 12-Inch Skillet is an excellent choice.

We recently had the opportunity to use the Cuisinart 12-Inch Skillet, and we were impressed with its exceptional design and performance. The hard anodized material is harder than stainless steel and is dense, nonporous, and highly wear-resistant, which means it will last for years to come.

One of the standout features of this skillet is the proprietary Quantanium nonstick interior, which is reinforced with titanium. This provides lasting food release, a healthy nonfat cooking option, and easy clean up. We found that we could cook anything we wanted with the help of unsurpassed heat distribution, which heats up quickly and spreads evenly.

Another great feature of this skillet is the cool grip handle, which is solid stainless steel and riveted to the skillet. It stays cool on the stove top, providing a safe and solid grip. We also appreciated the tapered slopes, which provide a drip-free pour.

Overall, we highly recommend the Cuisinart 12-Inch Skillet to anyone in the market for a high-quality, durable skillet that will last for years to come.

4) Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a non-toxic, non-stick skillet, the Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan is a great option to consider.

We recently tried out the Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan and were impressed with its performance. The skillet is lightweight and easy to handle, making cooking a breeze. We appreciated the non-toxic coating and the fact that it required very little oil or butter for cooking. The skillet cleaned up easily and looked great in our kitchen.

One thing to note is that the skillet is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing only. Additionally, it is not oven safe, which may be a downside for some users. Overall, we would recommend the Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan for anyone looking for a non-toxic, non-stick skillet that is easy to use and clean.

5) Made In Cookware – 8″ Non Stick Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a professional-grade non-stick frying pan that’s durable and easy to clean, the Made In Cookware 8″ Non Stick Frying Pan might be the perfect choice for you.

We’ve been using the Made In Cookware 8″ Non Stick Frying Pan for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The ultra-slick surface lets us cook without oil, which is great for healthy cooking. We’ve made eggs, pancakes, and even sautéed vegetables in this pan, and everything has turned out perfectly.

One thing we love about this pan is how easy it is to clean. Most meals can be wiped clean in seconds, which saves us time and effort. However, we do need to hand wash it, which is a bit of a downside.

The Made In Cookware 8″ Non Stick Frying Pan is designed to last, with a stainless clad base and two layers of non-stick coating. We appreciate the durability of this pan, and we’re confident it will last us for years to come. However, the price tag is a bit steep, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we highly recommend the Made In Cookware 8″ Non Stick Frying Pan for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and easy-to-clean non-stick pan.

6) Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Sauté Pan with Lid

We highly recommend the Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Sauté Pan with Lid for anyone looking for a durable and healthy cooking option.

We recently tried out the Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Sauté Pan with Lid and were impressed with its performance. The 11.8” sauté pan is the perfect size for dinner parties, dishes with stock, stir fries, and more. It’s also available in a variety of colors to match any kitchen decor.

The pan’s non-stick surface worked exceptionally well, making cooking and cleaning a breeze. We appreciated that it requires less oil or butter for cooking, making it a healthier option. Additionally, the non-toxic coating gave us peace of mind knowing that we weren’t exposing ourselves or our food to harmful chemicals.

The pan is compatible with all stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction. It’s also oven-safe up to 550ºF, which is a great feature for those who like to finish their dishes in the oven.

The only downsides we found were the price and the fact that it’s hand wash only. However, we think the benefits of this pan outweigh the cons, making it a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality and healthy cooking option.

7) Anolon Accolade Forged Hard Anodized Nonstick Deep Frying Pan / Skillet with Helper Handle and Lid, 12 Inch – Moonstone Gray Skillet (12″)

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable nonstick skillet, the Anolon Accolade Forged Hard Anodized Nonstick Deep Frying Pan is a great option.

We were impressed with the overall quality and performance of the Anolon Accolade skillet. The nonstick finish held up well even after multiple uses, and the even heating made cooking a breeze. We appreciated the sturdy construction and the fact that it’s dishwasher safe. The wok lid was a nice bonus and made steaming a breeze. However, the sharp lip and flat rivets did make cleaning a bit more difficult than we would have liked. Overall, we would recommend the Anolon Accolade Forged Hard Anodized Nonstick Deep Frying Pan to anyone in the market for a high-quality nonstick skillet that will last for years to come.

8) Hestan ProBond Forged Stainless Steel Skillets with TITUMTM Nonstick

If you’re looking for a high-end skillet set that is both durable and efficient, the Hestan ProBond Forged Stainless Steel Skillets with TITUMTM Nonstick is an excellent choice.

We’ve been using the Hestan ProBond Forged Stainless Steel Skillets with TITUMTM Nonstick for several weeks now and have been thoroughly impressed with their performance. The TITUM Nonstick System truly lives up to its reputation as the most durable non-stick cookware in the world, making it easy to cook with and clean up after. We also appreciate the ProCore Aluminum triple-bonded stainless-steel base, which heats up quickly and evenly, allowing us to cook our meals faster and with greater precision.

The skillets themselves are beautifully crafted, with optimized cold forged construction that ensures even heat distribution. We also appreciate the sealed rims, which are encased with stainless steel to prevent dangerous wear and tear. The flush rivets are another nice touch, as they make the skillets easy to clean and ideal for stacking and nesting.

While the price point may be a bit high for some buyers, we believe that the Hestan ProBond Forged Stainless Steel Skillets with TITUMTM Nonstick are worth the investment for those who are serious about cooking. The set only includes two skillets, which may not be enough for larger families or those who frequently entertain guests, but they are an excellent addition to any kitchen nonetheless.

9) Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick Frying Pan Set

If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting nonstick frying pan set, the Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware is a great choice.

We’ve been using the Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick Frying Pan Set for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. The nonstick coating truly lives up to its promise, with food sliding right off the pan without any sticking or burning. The pans heat up evenly and quickly, and the long handles make it easy to move the pans around without burning your hands.

The set is also easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher. We appreciate that the set is oven-safe up to 450 degrees F, which allows for more versatility in cooking. However, we do wish that the set included more than just two frying pans, as this may not be enough for larger households or those who cook frequently.

Overall, we would recommend the Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick Frying Pan Set for those looking for a durable and long-lasting nonstick frying pan set. However, those with concerns about nonstick coating chemicals may want to consider other options.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best skillet, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve outlined the most important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The material of the skillet can greatly affect its performance and durability. The most common materials are stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick coatings. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, but can have hot spots that may cause uneven cooking. Cast iron is excellent at retaining heat and provides even cooking, but requires seasoning and can be heavy. Non-stick coatings are great for easy clean-up and food release, but can be less durable and may not be suitable for high heat cooking.

Size

The size of the skillet will depend on your cooking needs. A 10-12 inch skillet is a good all-purpose size for most households. If you’re cooking for a larger family or want to cook multiple items at once, a larger skillet may be necessary.

Handle

The handle of the skillet should be comfortable to grip and stay cool during cooking. Some skillets have a removable handle for easy storage, while others have a long handle for better control.

Compatibility

Consider the compatibility of the skillet with your cooktop. Some skillets are not suitable for induction cooktops, while others may scratch certain surfaces.

Price

Skillets can range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Consider your budget and how often you’ll be using the skillet when making your decision.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best skillet for your cooking needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated skillets recommended by Consumer Reports?

Consumer Reports recommends a few skillets that have consistently received high ratings. These include the All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, and the T-fal Professional Nonstick Fry Pan. These skillets are known for their durability, heat distribution, and ease of use.

Which cast iron skillet is considered the best on the market?

The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is widely considered the best cast iron skillet on the market. It is known for its durability, versatility, and even heating. It is also relatively affordable compared to other high-end cast iron skillets.

What features should I look for in the best non-stick frying pan?

When looking for the best non-stick frying pan, it is important to consider the quality of the non-stick coating, the durability of the pan, and the heat distribution. Look for pans with a high-quality non-stick coating that is free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, choose a pan that is durable and can withstand high temperatures without warping.

What materials are preferred for high-quality frying pans?

High-quality frying pans are typically made from materials that conduct heat well, such as stainless steel, cast iron, and copper. These materials allow for even heating and better cooking results. Non-stick coatings are also popular for their convenience and ease of use.

Which skillets are favored by professional chefs for everyday cooking?

Professional chefs often prefer skillets that are durable, versatile, and heat evenly. Some of the most popular skillets among professional chefs include the All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan, the Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet, and the Mauviel M’heritage Copper Fry Pan.

What are the healthiest types of skillets to cook with?

When it comes to healthy cooking, it is important to choose skillets that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins. Stainless steel, cast iron, and copper are all safe materials for cooking. Additionally, look for pans with non-stick coatings that are free from PFOA and other harmful chemicals.