11 Best Stainless Skillet to Rock This Year
If you know a thing or two about cooking, you would know how a stainless steel skillet can be the best kitchen workhorse. Wondering why we say that? Well, with the right stainless steel fry pan, you can cook anything that your heart wants. A good stainless skillet can do it all, be it sautéing […]
If you know a thing or two about cooking, you would know how a stainless steel skillet can be the best kitchen workhorse.
Wondering why we say that? Well, with the right stainless steel fry pan, you can cook anything that your heart wants. A good stainless skillet can do it all, be it sautéing meat or veggies, or making your favorite sauce.
So when you are choosing one, make sure that it is durable so that you do not have to change it every year. Honestly, no good kitchen is complete without a proper skillet.
But the problem is picking the right one. When the market is filled with thousands of options, how do you know which one would work the best for you? And in order to fix your dilemma, we have designed this guide with the 12 best stainless skillets that you can try.
So, without further delay, let’s check them out!
Top Stainless Skillet
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick | Misen Stainless Skillet |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Cuisinart 8922-30H |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Tramontina 80116/007DS |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | All-Clad 41126 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Cuisinart 722-24 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | All-Clad 4112 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | AVACRAFT 18/10 Stainless Steel Frying Pan |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | All-Clad 8701004135 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | KitchenAid 71010 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Calphalon 1948246 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
1. Misen Stainless Skillet
The high-quality Misen Stainless Steel Skillet is almost a dream come true for all cooking enthusiasts. This frying pan can be your dependable companion in the kitchen. It is one of those skillets that facilitates heat retention while ensuring great heat distribution.
Why Did We Like It?
Unless you are a seasoned cook, then chances are that you have incurred a few minor burns while cooking chicken breast. This is because it gets difficult for you to handle the pan’s weight, and you end up touching the handle by mistake without protection. But that won’t be the case with this stainless steel skillet.
The lightweight design makes the skillet easy to handle, even when cooking for prolonged periods or in larger amounts. And the stainless steel handles ensure that you do not end up hurting your hands. We were impressed that this brand took extra care to ensure user safety, unlike other stainless steel pans.
Additionally, you get to avail a significant amount of cooking surface. So, when you are searing meat, you don’t need to worry the pieces falling off. You can toss and turn the meat according to your requirement. This feature will also come in handy to prevent overcooking when you’re searing pan sauce.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There is no doubt that this item provides even heat distribution. But we were not very satisfied with the way it was packaged. The box in which it came was tapered around the corners, and we expected better from a brand like this.
- Offers even heating
- Dishwasher safe use
- Can handle high temperatures
- Five layers of stainless steel protection
- Insufficient packaging
2. Cuisinart 8922-30H
There’s something unique and traditional about stainless steel skillets that have a bonded base. Home cooks love them for the versatility that bring to the kitchen without affecting the overall functionality. And the Cuisinart 8922-30H scores a perfect ten in this regard.
- PowerBond high impact bonded base heats fast and distributes...
- Riveted stainless handles provide strength and durability...
- Rims of cookware are tapered to make pouring clean and easy.
- Oven and broiler safe up to 500 DegreeF
Why Did We Like It?
Firstly, we were impressed with the durability of this premium stainless steel skillet. The broad steel base can accommodate big pieces of chicken breasts so that you can easily cook more than one at a go. Plus, the handles are long and curvy to resist getting heated up. This makes the skillet suitable to be used in professional kitchens.
The manufacturer has also paid attention to ensure that there are no hot spots that can get otherwise your food scorched. On top of that, the sloped sides make it relatively easy to pour your dish for plating. After using it, we can assure you that it provides exactly what it advertises.
Moreover, it comes with tempered glass covers that hold the heat better, which is extremely important when you are simmering food or making sauces. When the covers are on, the food gets cooked slowly and steadily. As a result, the nutrients and flavors get locked in properly.
What Could’ve Been Better?
When considering the price point, we have to say that the costs slightly more in comparison to many skillets available on the market. But given its features and ease of use, we don’t really mind shelling out a few extra dollars.
- Provides great heat distribution
- Highly durable
- Enables drip-free pouring
- Suitable for professional chefs
- Price is high
3. Tramontina 80116/007DS
If you are looking for a product that is all clad and heats up from all sides, the Tramontina 80116/007DS Fry Pan is an excellent choice. This tri-ply clad skillet is made in Brazil and is one of the most premium products offered by the brand. It is best suited for professional cooks, as it offers the required finesse.
- Tri-Ply clad construction (18/10 stainless steel, aluminum...
- Ergonomic precision cast mirror-polished stainless-steel...
- Compatible with all cooktops – including induction
- Dishwasher-safe; Oven-safe up to 500°F
Why Did We Like It?
This stainless skillet is a fully clad tri-ply cookware with a strong aluminum core, which facilitates better heat retention and distribution. So, there’s no doubt that it’s durability won’t take a hit anytime soon. You can place the food anywhere and the design will ensure proper cooking.
But it is not just the amazing cast iron coating that caught our eye. This product makes your cooking tasks simple because of its stainless steel handles. You will understand the benefit, especially when making pan sauces, as the riveted handle will provide a good amount of stability.
Also, the pan come with a high-gloss finish, which helps protect the coating and makes it super convenient for you to clean it. And the NSF certification ensures that it meets all standard guidelines and can be used by home cooks too.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are hardly any complaints that we have with how well this item performs. However, we some customer reviews mention that the cooking surface is relatively small. This is an important factor to consider if you plan on cooking for many guests.
- Lasts for a long time
- Can handle high temperatures
- Non-reactive finish
- Food does not stick
- Cooking area is relatively small
4. All-Clad 41126
Planning to surprise your friends with delicious quick bites or an epic feast? The All-Clad 41126 D3 Stainless Cookware is here to your rescue. Equipped with a hard-anodized aluminum core, this cookware reeks of elegance and durability. So, you may want to add this classic beauty to your kitchen without any delay.
- A kitchen staple featuring a flat base and flared, mid-sized...
- Classic tri-ply construction, made with a responsive...
- Secured with riveted stainless-steel handles to ensure a...
- Compatible with all cooktops including induction, and oven...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing that we should mention about this skillet is its top-notch construction. It is made of multiple layers of stainless steel and aluminum. As a result, it can handle high temperatures while the cooking surface gets heated evenly. So, be it searing meat or sauteing veggies, this pan can do it all.
Honestly, it is a kitchen staple that you cannot afford to miss out on. The base is flat and quite broad, which provides it with enough cooking space. Remember that a larger pan means more cooking area, and that makes activities like flipping and tossing meat or vegetables pretty easy.
Other than that, it comes with a stainless steel cover, which spreads the heat evenly and helps you prevent gas wastage. However, you do not need to restrict yourself to using it on gas ovens as it is broiler-safe too. Put it on induction or inside an oven; all you need to make sure is that the temperature does not rise above 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We should tell you that the pan is a little heavy. So, unless you are a pro in the kitchen, it might get a bit difficult to handle, and it will only get heavier as you keep on adding food. So, keep this factor in mind before you decide on buying it.
- Comes with well-distributed hot spots
- Versatile use
- Bigger cooking area
- Easy to use
- A bit heavy
5. Cuisinart 722-24
The Cuisinart 722-24 was is inspired by the kitchens in France, so the construction and the technology on offer are nothing short of incredible. Cooks all across the world love this product for the efficiency that it puts on the table.
- Chef's Choice Stainless: Mirror finish. Classic looks,...
- Unsurpassed Heat Distribution: Aluminum encapsulated base...
- Stainless Steel for Professional Results: Stainless steel...
- Cool Grip Handle: Solid stainless steel riveted handle stays...
Why Did We Like It?
First off, this item is extremely well-designed and will surely catch your attention. It comes with a mirror finish that makes it easy to clean and also ensures that it heats quickly. So, you do not have to wait for long in front of the gas oven for your food to get cooked. In short, you can expect professional output in the kitchen.
What’s more, unlike other stainless steel frying pans, this one does not get discolored or react with food. You can rest assured that the material won’t contaminate what you are cooking to disrupt the flavors. This is perfect when you want to dry up gravies or simmer meat, as the food won’t lose its original taste.
Moreover, the stainless steel handle just adds to the advantage of having this item in your kitchen. You will also find an additional helper handle included in the package, which ensure that you can balance the skillet with all the food and pouring becomes easier. Simply put, this accessory is meant to enhance user convenience.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The only issue that we encountered with this stainless steel pan is that it did not arrive seasoned. The problem with using a non-seasoned pan is that food tends to get stuck during the initial days of cooking. So, you have to spend a considerable amount of time and effort to get it seasoned before use.
- Effective design
- Simple to use
- Heat gets evenly distributed
- Does not spoil taste
- Does not come pre-seasoned
6. All-Clad 4112
The second entry from the same brand is the All-Clad 4112. Some chefs consider this as the ultimate cookware that you can get your hands on because of the tri-ply coating. It is made in the USA, and it is fully clad construction won’t let you second guess whether it’s a good choice or not.
- A kitchen staple featuring a flat base and flared, mid-sized...
- Classic tri-ply construction, made with a responsive...
- Secured with riveted stainless-steel handles to ensure a...
- Compatible with all cooktops including induction, and oven...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing that we would like to mention is how effortless it feels to use this stainless steel skillet. All the sides are a little flared up, which accounts for easy handling . Furthermore, it prevents sauces and gravies from getting scorched. And this is not only because of the coatings but also because of the excellent design.
What also adds to the ease of handling is its lightweight build. But just because it does not weigh too much, do not think that it won’t be durable in the long run or provide even heating. Its construction is such that it gets heated up quickly and loses heat soon after the oven is turned off. So, you can understand that it can reach high temperatures without posing any harm.
And then there are the stainless steel handles that keep you from burning your hands or fingers. It will make your cooking tasks feel as easy as a breeze. Plus, the riveted handle design serves the dual purpose of convenient handling and adding on to the overall looks.
What Could’ve Been Better?
If we are being picky, we need to mention that we were not very impressed with its packaging. There was not enough Styrofoam layer to provide proper protection to the skillet during transit. So, don’t forget to check for any damages as soon as you receive the product.
- Easy to use
- Durable construction
- Lightweight design
- Easy storage
- Packaging needs improvement
7. AVACRAFT 18/10 Stainless Steel Frying Pan
The AVACRAFT 18/10 Stainless Steel Frying Pan is one of the best bets if you are looking for high functionality and great design. All the products made by this brand go through proper testing before being released into the market. So, you can rest assured that you will be getting good value for money.
- 18/10 STAINLESS STEEL FRY PAN: 10" frying pan with strong...
- PROFESSIONAL FRYING PAN : Five-ply base eliminates hot...
- INDUCTION COMPATIBLE: Versatile Induction pan, Gas,...
- EASY CLEAN AND DURABLE: High quality 18/10 food grade...
Why Did We Like It?
To begin with, this skillet comes with a clear glass that has a stainless steel rim around it. When you are done cooking, you can keep the lid on to ensure that the heat does not escape. And don’t worry; the durable glass construction won’t break easily. Hence, the heat retention capacity of this unit increases considerably.
Aside from that, it is custom-made for professional kitchens as the tri-ply base completely removes unwanted hot spots that can ruin your meal. Instead, the coating provides even heating across the pan, making it suitable for whipping pan sauces or searing fish.
Additionally, sloped sides on both ends make it a perfect for preparing delicious breakfast spreads. Unlike other pans, it helps you toss your omelet and veggies easily before pouring them it into the plate. Another advantage of this design is that it prevents unwanted browning, and your delicacies won’t break while you transfer them to the plate.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite taking care of multiple important aspects, there’s one downside to this product. Maintaining this stainless skillet may seem challenging, especially for first-timers. There are a few nooks and corners where food tends to get stuck. So, put in some extra time and effort to remove all food residue.
- Durable construction
- Does not char food
- Facilitates easy pouring of food
- Can handle high temperatures
- Difficult to clean
8. All-Clad 8701004135
If you are looking for a stainless steel skillet that will surely ignite your passion for cooking, the All-Clad 8701004135 bd55203 is the best bet. This is an oven-safe option and goes with a range of other appliances, too, and users love how versatile the product is!
- Features high, straight sides to assist with stirring a...
- 5-ply bonded construction with alternating layers of...
- For an added touch of refinement, it features a beautiful...
- Compatible with all cooktops and optimized performance for...
Why Did We Like It?
Unlike all the pans and cookware that we have mentioned in our list, this one comes with straight sides that make it super convenient to stir. The depth is impressive, and it enables the item to hold heat better. As a result, it becomes easy for you to make a pan sauce or to heat up other liquids.
Additionally, the five layers of non-reactive construction make this a much sought-after product. It has alternate layers of clad stainless steel and hard anodized aluminum. This is what prevents the fry pan from warping, thereby ensuring high durability.
Moreover, you should note that this stainless steel frying pan comes with a handle made of the same material. Because of this, it does not retain heat for too long, and thus you do not have to worry about hurting your hands. However, when you are taking it out of the oven, we would suggest that you wear a kitchen glove.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite its excellent performance, it does have a problem. Unless you are a pro in the kitchen, handling this cookware can be challenging, given the weight is pretty high. Test it before putting it on the burner to understand if you can handle the weight yourself.
- Adequate depth
- Durable build
- Food does not stick to the walls
- Heat gets distributed evenly
- A bit heavy
9. KitchenAid 71010
For people who are on the lookout for an excellent nonstick pan, you can give the KitchenAid 71010 a try. You can rest assured that food will not stick to the sides and that heating will be evenly done. With this, you do not have to face the problem of experiencing unwanted hot spots that would make your food extra brown in certain areas.
- EVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION: Heavy bottom, triple-layer bases...
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Frying pan is crafted from heavy duty...
- PREMIUM FOOD RELEASE: KitchenAid stainless steel pan is...
- EASY TO CLEAN: Stainless steel skillet is dishwasher safe...
Why Did We Like It?
If you love to cook but hate the process of cleaning, this nonstick fry pan can become your best companion in the kitchen. The manufacturers have put three layers of stainless steel in its construction. So, you can imagine how sturdy and durable this product is. Even after several rounds of washing, it won’t lose its charm.
And not to forget the thick aluminum coating that makes this cookware a favorite of many! It reduces the problem of frequent temperature changes and evenly heats up the nonstick skillet as you cook. You can rest assured that the cooking will be proper and well-done. The tri-ply layer is what ensures that the heating is entirely spread out.
This nonstick fry pan is entirely PFOA-free and can handle everyday wear and tear like a pro. And as we have mentioned before, it is super convenient to clean. It is made of clad stainless steel and has an extra layer of nonstick coatings. You can wash it in the sink or put it in the dishwasher, and clean it any way you want to.
What Could’ve Been Better?
One downside that we noticed about this nonstick skillet is its handle. It is a little long and, if not placed right, can poke you when cooking. This won’t be a problem if you are a seasoned cook! However, for people who are new to the kitchen, this is a fair warning.
- Easy to maintain
- Last for a long time
- Simple to use
- Helps to hold heat for long
- Handle is too long
10. Calphalon 1948246
The signature product of brand Calphalon, the 1948246 Stainless Steel Skillet, is popular for its five layers of metallic construction and has won many hearts. Not only will you become a great cook with this, but your friends will also talk about how stunning this skillet looks. It seems like a win-win!
- Triple-layer aluminum core distributes heat evenly, for...
- Fully clad, 5-layer metal construction delivers performance...
- Oven-safe up to 500 degrees F, so you can easily go from the...
- Stainless steel long handles stay cool on the stovetop
Why Did We Like It?
When planning a weekend party on the lawn with friends, you will have this pan helping you whip some extraordinary delicacies. Because of the tri-ply aluminum coating, this stainless steel fry pan provides exceptional browning to your food. But do not worry that your food will not get charred.
Not to forget the handle! It is of the right length, and the construction is so well done that in no way will you be hurt. The heat-resistance capacity of the handle is pretty high, and that ensures that it never gets too hot. As a result, you can expect professional levels of efficiency and precision from this product.
Moreover, you can use this fry pan with a range of appliances such as induction, stove, or broilers. Just keep in mind that it can handle high temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. And as the glass lid is tempered, you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged as long as you abide by the temperature limit.
What Could’ve Been Better?
This product is specifically made for sautéing and searing meat and fish without destroying their taste. But if you are planning to make pan sauces or simmer liquids in it, that might not be a great idea as the depth is not much.
- Excellent handle
- Highly durable
- Easy to use
- Can handle temperature changes
- Is a little shallow
11. Ayesha Curry Home Collection 70206
We could not have wrapped up this list without having mentioned the Ayesha Curry 70206 Home Collection. After you introduce it to your kitchen, rest assured that everyday cooking will become a lot simpler. The manufacturer has paid great attention to detail and made sure that you can cook a variety of dishes with it.
- STAINLESS STEEL STRONG: Frying pan features durable...
- COOK LIKE AYESHA CURRY: Stylish, flared silhouette and...
- SUPER STRONG HANDLES: Brushed stainless steel fry pan...
- STOVE TO OVEN SKILLET: Stainless steel frying pan is oven...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing to catch our attention was how well this stainless steel skillet performs. When it comes to efficiency, this one scores a perfect ten as its sturdy aluminum base ensures that the heating is even and happens from all sides. So, you do not have to worry about parts of your dish getting overcooked.
Moreover, the way this skillet looks it will surely become a conversation starter when your friends are over. It is sleek, magnificent, and comes with a decorative diamond attached to the sides. So, you can understand how it not only helps cook better but also makes for a beautiful addition to your kitchen décor.
The other thing that makes this one of the best stainless steel skillets in the market is the bold and beautiful handle that it comes with. The handle is well-polished and does not catch stains easily. And it is also double-riveted, which makes it extra strong.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We did face some issues with the item when cleaning it. Unless you clean it with a soft cloth, the chances are that you will end up getting it scratched. In case that happens, you can always ask the manufacturer for a replacement.
- Efficient functioning
- Simple to use
- Durable
- Comes with a rounded bottom
- Gets scratched easily
Stainless Skillet Buyer’s Guide
Now that we have spoken in detail about the top 12 stainless steel skillets that you can try, were you able to choose one? Getting your hands on the best stainless steel skillet is not an easy task, and there are more than one important factor that you need to take into consideration.
And in this section, we are going to take a look at some of those factors. So, let’s check them out!
1. Material Used
The best stainless steel skillet is one that comes with an aluminum core. Keep in mind that stainless steel does not retain heat, and for that, you need aluminum. But make sure that the sides of the frying pan are coated with stainless steel so that you do not incur any burns while cooking.
Instead of stainless steel, you can even go for carbon steel as it does not hold heat for too long. The advantage is that they get heated up pretty quickly and lose the heat fast. Considering the material used for your frying pan is quite crucial as it determines how convenient cooking will become in the kitchen.
2. Pricing
Cost is a major consideration when it comes to selecting stainless steel skillets. Unless you are a professional chef, you might not be willing to invest a lot of money in home cooking. In that case, it is best to get a stainless steel pan that can handle all the basic requirements but at an affordable cost.
We would suggest that you buy additional equipment for your nonstick pans only when it is necessary. Otherwise, you can go for the best stainless steel skillets sets, but that would mean some high amount of investment.
3. Versatility
When buying a stainless steel pan or skillet, it is essential that you look beyond just the basic nonstick coating. A stainless steel fry pan is best when it can be used with all appliances present in the kitchen.
If it is broiler safe and can also be used in the oven, we can say that it is pretty versatile. If that is the case, it can be used in home and professional kitchens alike. When a stainless steel pan is versatile, it heats quickly and makes your cooking tasks simple.
Make sure that you read the reviews well to check if a product will deliver exactly what it advertises.
4. Rights Handles And Lids
What good are stainless steel pans if they cannot provide even heating? And for that purpose, it is essential that you choose a product with good handles and lids. If you are confused about what that is, let us explain it to you.
Unless you go for a frying pan that comes with stainless steel handles that are durable in nature, you will have a hard time putting it to everyday use. Apart from that, you need to make sure that your pan has a proper lid. In case there’s none included in the package, you can buy one separately from the market.
A lid plays a major role in ensuring that there is even heating, so you can understand how crucial it is to ensure that your food gets cooked well. We would suggest that you avoid getting a lid made out of glass as that will be more prone to breakage.
A stainless steel lid does not have hot spots, so you do not have to worry about getting hurt if you touch it mistakenly.
5. Prefer Stainless Steel Skillets
It is true that there are other types of skillets and frying pans that are available on the market, but none as efficient as the stainless steel ones.
To begin with, they are very user-friendly, and you do not have to worry about hurting your hand even after taking it right out of the oven. Stainless steel cookware is best for ones who are new to cooking but planning to do it every day. They are durable and require the minimum amount of maintenance.
And non to forget that you should go for one that comes with a nonstick coating. Remember, the best stainless steel skillets are those that are suitable for everyday use. But it is true that the heat retention capacity of stainless steel is not that great. For that, it is best to go with aluminum-clad stainless steel skillets.
Verdict
That’s all for today, folks!
We hope you had a great time learning about the top stainless skillets that are out there. And we also hope that after reading this comprehensive guide, you will be able to make a good decision.
However, before signing off, we would like to give you a glimpse into our favorites. The Misen Stainless Skillet takes the award for being our favorite overall. In case you are looking for a stainless steel fry pan that offers excellent durability and great heat distribution, you should try the Victoria SKL-212 Cast Iron Skillet.
If you have any more questions, feel free to write to us in the comments section below. And for more exciting reads, keep a watch on this space.
Until next time, adios!
