If you love frying food, you might be looking for the best non-stick pan. It allows you to cook different types of food and lets you bring out your creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie, you can take advantage of this pan that has non-stick properties, allowing you to reduce the oil used in cooking. That said, you and your loved ones could stay healthy and avoid diseases like heart attack and stroke.
These are only some of the benefits of using a non-stick pan in the long term. However, you might not be able to use the best pan with non-stick properties if you are unable to do a bit of research and spend time comparing your choices well. That is the exact same reason that we’ve created this guide.
In the next sections, you’ll learn more about the best pans in the non-stick category that you can choose from and use. Each of them has unique features as well as pros and cons that you can weigh and study later. If you’re ready, let us get started and help you find the right pan for your needs.
Foodieandtours.com is reader-supported. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
I. Our Top Picks for Non-Stick Pans
| Products & Features | Image & Price |
|---|---|
| 11. Anolon 81888 Advanced Hard Anodized Nonstick Frying Pan |  |
| 12. Swiss Diamond 10.25 Inch Nonstick Fry Pan |  |
1. Our #1 Pick: Tramontina 80114/535DS Professional Aluminum Nonstick Restaurant Fry Pan |  |
2. Runner-Up: All-Clad Hard Anodized Nonstick Dishwasher Safe PFOA Fry Pan Cookware Set |  |
3. Scanpan Classic 9-1/2-Inch Fry Pan |  |
4. Cuisinart 622-36H Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 14-Inch Open Skillet |  |
5. Calphalon Contemporary Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware |  |
6. Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick 8-Inch Shallow Fry Pan |  |
| 8. Calphalon Contemporary Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware |  |
| 10. Scanpan CTX 8-Inch Fry Pan |  |
| 7. Rachael Ray Cucina Hard-Anodized Nonstick Skillet with Helper Handle |  |
| 9. Vollrath (Z4012) 12" Wear-Ever CeramiGuard II Fry Pan |  |
II. What Types of Non-stick Pans Are There?
Before buying a non-stick pan, you might want to know their types so that you will have an idea of how these types of coating differ from each other and what makes each of them unique. For an idea, check out the following for what to know about these non-stick pans.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Coating
This coating was trademarked as Teflon, which is known for much famous cookware when it comes to coating. But in case, you don’t know yet, its invention was not intentional. In 1938, Roy Plunkett was experimenting with something that involved freezing and compressing an odorless and colorless gas called tetrafluoroethylene. This gas became a waxy and white solid called polytetrafluoroethylene. This substance is very slippery because of its low friction coefficient.
However, it is not perfect because it can release toxic fumes and fluorocarbons in the air when exposed to temperatures more than 500 degrees Fahrenheit. It happens when the substance is not treated based on standards. If it’s treated incorrectly, the substance can become a cause of flu-like symptoms if inhaled. For birds, it can be deadly.
Enameled Cast Iron
Many chefs from around the world prefer this coating because it poses no seasoning issues as well as is easy to clean. It can also provide non-stick properties that do not leach iron from leaching into beverages or food. Many enameled cast iron cookware is of different colors and lovely designs. FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition said that enameled cast iron is safe.
Superhydrophobic coatings
One of its unique properties is that it can repel water. For instance, water can rebound upon hitting it quickly and completely.
They are gel-based materials that can be applied by dipping the metal that needs coating or by spraying. In addition to cookware, it is used in applications like windshields. It works by preventing water from clinging to it. On the other hand, there are also food-safe coatings that meet safety requirements.
Silicone Non-stick Coating
This material is popular for bakeware products, which are safe for up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit in terms of heat tolerance. This material is safe in that it does not react to beverages or food. It does not also emit any harmful fumes. Silicone non-stick also has low thermal stability and toxicity. It is also easy to clean and has a non-stick performance. This material doesn’t also release any odor or change the flavor of food. Finally, it’s a safe alternative to those pans that are treated with perfluorooctanoic acid.
Ceramic coating
At the very least, this coating is made by hardening clay. It is one of the safest non-stick coatings around because it does not contain chemicals including PTFE. In recent years, it is becoming in demand because of this property. It is also noble when it comes to any chemical activity. Ceramic is also earth-friendly, so those who are into conserving nature opt for cookware with ceramic non-stick coating.
It is also health-beneficial because it does not leach harmful substances or chemicals into the environment or food because of its inorganic nature. However, it also has drawbacks including less durability. For example, the coating can degrade over time due to frequent scrubbing.
- Top 11 Best Woks
- Top 5 Best Carbon Steel Pans
- Top 10 Best Cast Iron Dutch Ovens
- Top 10 Best Grill Pans
- Top 10 Best Stir Fry Pans
- Top 10 Best Ceramic Frying Pans
III. Things To Consider When Buying a Non-Stick Pan
Before adding a specific non-stick pan into your cart, think again. There are certain things that you need to know in order to make a good decision. You should check for specific qualities that make this type of cookware a great choice. Keep reading in the following for a guide.
Type of coating
One of the main considerations when comparing your choices includes the type of coating that the cookware has. One of the most popular is Teflon that can repel water, and the other is ceramic that’s silica-based gel. Teflon is said to last longer than the other does. However, you must take care of your pan and prevent scratching its surface.
Material
In most cases, you can find pans made of three-ply stainless steel or aluminum. According to the pros, the stainless steel type is more durable but heavier. In addition, this material is expensive, so pans made out of it tend to cost higher, too. But nevertheless, it is good for even cooking.
On the other hand, aluminum pans are not good for even heating even if it heats up pretty quickly. These pans cannot also be used on induction stoves. If using it on an induction cooktop, check the package for specifications if it is okay for this application. If the bottom is magnetized, it is also good for induction cooking.
Price
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to find a quality pan. Also, you must know those non-stick properties will eventually wear off in time. In addition, you must read reviews to check for what users are saying about the pan. Take note of quality pans that they use but without spending much cash for it.
When it comes to cookware, you should look into its value, and make sure that it is high quality. However, you should not do too much when looking for high-quality pans. Nevertheless, you must find a balance between cost and quality.
Safety
One of the main considerations when choosing a non-stick pan is its safety. After all, it is our first priority when it comes to food preparation. You should not compromise your health, so it pays off that you check for the safety of the non-stick pan. You should avoid those made with PFOA, a type of harmful chemical.
Construction
For the best results, you might want to find those with 5-ply metal cladding because such pans are not just non-stick but with layers of non-stick surface and heat-conducting metal. You should avoid those with only a cladding plate in the pan’s bottom and stainless steel sides because such construction type can lead to the burning of food and uneven cooking.
Value
When it comes to cookware, you should look into its value, and make sure that it is high quality. However, you should not do too much when looking for high-quality pans. Nevertheless, you must find a balance between cost and quality.
Function
Make sure that you consider your lifestyle when buying a pan. It should also feature even heat distribution. In addition, you must check that the pan is dishwasher safe, oven safe, and easy to clean.
Durability
Another important feature to check when buying cookware is its durability. You must check that the pan can last long. For example, ceramic coating can be delicate due to the material type. It might not also be able to deal with scratches of metal utensils. In addition, it might not be able to handle high temperatures as well as cannot be used with the dishwasher. On the other hand, cast iron is susceptible to any damage. You should find pans made of strong materials for durability.
There you have some of the things to check when comparing your options of non-stick pans. Later, make a good buying decision by considering your options closely based on the features you want for your cookware.
Tips to Use Non-Stick Pan Safety
- Do not preheat the pan if it is empty. Or else, you might damage your pan because it can heat quickly and reach high temperatures fast. It might release fumes called a polymer. To prevent it from happening, you must ensure that there is liquid in the pan before preheating it.
- You must ventilate your kitchen when cooking. Make sure that you also open up the windows or the exhaust fan to help clear the air.
- Do not cook acidic foods on it because it can lead to the flaking of the non-stick surface. Go for higher quality cookware that will also give more value for your money. Some foods that can affect the non-stick properties of cookware are lemon and tomatoes.
- Do not use aerosol-cooking spray that can damage your cookware faster. While you will not see it at first, it will develop as a problem with the repeated use of aerosol sprays.
- Do not cook on high heat. Avoid boiling and cook on low or medium heat because this cooking type needs temperatures above those that non-stick pans can handle.
- Avoid using metal utensils, but use plastic or silicone ones. Otherwise, the metal utensils can leave scratches and scuffs on the surface.
- Use gentle cleaning products on the pan. You should clean it with a sponge, warm water and soap. Avoid abrasive cleaning agents that will cause scratches on the surface.
- Replace the non-stick pan if you can find excessive scratches and surface deterioration. Other signs to know that the pan is ready to replace are excessive peeling and flaking.
- Store the pans correctly. As a suggestion, you shouldn’t hang pans without much space between each pan, or they might be damaged.
- Do not use the pan above the suggested temperature threshold, or it will damage the pan.
IV. Top 12 Best Non-Sticks
1. Tramontina 80114/535DS Professional Aluminum Non-stick Restaurant Fry Pan
If you’re looking for a professional quality pan that can help you in the kitchen and let you bring out your creative cooking ideas into reality, you can check out the Tramontina 80114/535DS.
It is a commercial-grade pan made of heavy-gauge aluminum. You can rely on it for its durability and long-lasting performance. In addition, the pan is NSF-certified, giving you peace of mind about using quality and safe cookware.
More so, it is notable for its versatility to work on a wide range of cooktops. This model is also oven safe for up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to make your baked dishes without any hassles. It is also remarkable that it is made of dishwasher-safe materials, allowing for ease of cleaning and maintenance.
The Tramontina Professional Restaurant Fry Pan is also designed and made to deal with abuse and use. It is also suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques that include sautéing, frying, and scrambling. It also has a stainless steel handle for added support. It is also with a soft grip made of silicone for easier maneuverability. Finally, this item is backed by a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
Pros
- Reliable non-stick properties
- NSF-Certified
- Can work on a wide range of cooktops
- Oven safe and dishwasher safe
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Smaller cooking surface
2. All-Clad Hard Anodized Non-stick Dishwasher Safe PFOA Fry Pan Cookware Set
This model comes with two pieces of pans, one 8-inch, and the other 10-inch. The cookware set is a top-of-the-line product made of hard-anodized aluminum construction. It is PFOA-free, giving you peace of mind that it does not release this harmful chemical into food.
By choosing this model, you can also rest assured that you’re buying quality because it is by a known brand for commitment to the performance of its products. This model is designed and made for easy cleaning and maintenance, one of the features of ALL-CLAD cookware.
The material used in this product can deliver even heating, preventing burns and hot spots. Its base is also warp-resistant for added durability. This cookware is also ideal for use in many cooktops like induction. You can also use it on ceramic, gas, or electric. Nevertheless, it is unbeatable when it comes to its versatility for use in many purposes. For ease of cleaning, it is also dishwasher safe, although hand washing is best. Finally, it is oven-safe for temperatures up to 500 degrees F without lids.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant surface
- Durable hard-anodized construction
- PFOE free
- Dishwasher safe
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees F
Cons
- Lids are not included
3. Scanpan Classic 9-1/2-Inch Fry Pan
If you love frying but don’t like excessive oil, you should check out this Scanpan classic fry pan. It is convenient and easy to use when it comes to frying a wide range of food like seafood and meat. You can also use it for cooking techniques including deglazing, searing, braising, and browning. Definitely, it is worth taking a look at its functionality.
It can help you stay healthy because you don’t need to use much oil in cooking for its non-stick ceramic-titanium surface. It is also safe to use and contains no PFOA. You will appreciate that this item is metal-utensil safe. It is also easy to clean because it is dishwasher-safe. When it comes to baking, you don’t need to worry about anything because this item is oven safe, tolerating temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This item is also made of pressure-cast aluminum for enhanced durability for long-term use.
The Scanpan Classic Fry Pan is a decent pick overall for its sleek design and solid performance. You might want to check it out yourself.
Pros
- Functionality for a wide range of applications
- Ceramic titanium non-stick
- Promotes healthier cooking
- Pressure-cast aluminum
- Sustainable and PFOA free
Cons
- Cannot be used on induction
4. Cuisinart 622-36H Chef’s Classic Non-stick Hard-Anodized 14-Inch Open Skillet
The open skillet pan is another top-of-the-line choice if you’re looking for a non-stick fry pan. It has an elegant design to match any kitchen decoration as well as great performance to make cooking easier. Another notable thing especially for a larger family or someone cooking in large batches is that it has a roomy cooking surface.
This item is also made with a hard-anodized exterior that’s resistant to wear and that’s dense. Its exterior is also more durable and harder than stainless steel is. The pan with a professional performance is a great kitchen helper that can also promote better health. With it, you can cook with little to no oil.
The Quantanium non-stick surface is also reinforced with titanium offering lasting food release and easy maintenance. This item also has riveted handles that can stay cool and offer a solid grip. In addition, this item is oven-safe that it can withstand up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- Oven safe 500 degrees F
- Sloped sides for better performance
- Nice heat distribution
- Can be used in stovetop or oven
- With tapered rims for a drip-free pouring
Cons
- Non-stick properties wear away over time
5. Calphalon Contemporary Hard-Anodized Aluminum Non-stick Cookware
The Calphalon Contemporary 2018986 is one of the best picks in the category. It comes with two pieces of omelets and fry pan that you can check out if you’re looking for a reliable addition in your kitchen. One of the things I liked about this set is that each of the pans is made with a hard-anodized aluminum construction that adds to its heavy-duty performance.
In addition, the pans are also oven safe for up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you should not use metal utensils to prevent scratches. Following this tip, you can look forward to long-term use.
More so, the pans are with stainless steel handles can stay cool for your safety. The covers are also oven safe adding to its functionality. It can be used in preparing a gourmet dish because cooking on it doesn’t need much oil.
This cookware also has flat bottoms for a roomier cooking surface and sloped sides for easy rolling and tossing. Overall, the Calphalon Contemporary 2018986 is a great pick for long-lasting performance and easy maintenance. You might want to take a look at it for yourself.
Pros
- Upgraded 10 and 12 inches fry pans
- Up to 450 degrees oven safe
- Heavy-gauge aluminum
- Less oil cooking
- Ideal for a wide range of stovetops
Cons
- Warping issues
6. Le Creuset Toughened Non-stick 8-Inch Shallow Fry Pan
If you’re looking for a reliable non-stick pan that you can use for a wide range of cooking techniques and that can last longer, you should consider the Le Creuset Fry Pan. One of the things that make it a good choice, too, is that it is oven safe to tolerate up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit as well as dishwasher safe for easy cleaning up
This item is also good for induction cooktops and other stovetops including gas and electric. The toughened cookware is also with forged hard-anodized stainless steel. You can also spend less time cleaning and use less fat or oil in cooking for its non-stick exterior and interior.
This product is also backed by a Lifetime Guarantee that adds to peace of mind and with an elegant design to match any kitchen decor. Overall, the item is a decent pick if you’re looking for a durable and high-performance pan for a wide range of cooking techniques. Check it out yourself.
Pros
- Ideal for induction cooktops
- Durable hard-anodized stainless steel
- Easy and quick clean up
- Lifetime guarantee
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees F and dishwasher safe
Cons
- Bubbling might appear with very high heat
7. Rachael Ray Cucina Hard-Anodized Non-stick Skillet with Helper Handle
This piece is a great addition to anyone’s kitchen because it has an elegant and sleek design that adds an added appeal to your decoration. It is also made of hard-anodized aluminum for even heating. With it, you can cut the cooking time and have more time for your loved ones.
It is also notable that it contains no PFOA in the composition. With that said, you can rest assured that it is safe to use and won’t harm the health of your loved ones.
In addition, the cookware is with dual riveting in the handles for added durability and easy maneuverability. It is also designed with a helper handle that helps in moving it from a kitchen station to another. You might also want to check it out if you want oven-safe cookware.
This item can withstand up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and is ideal for many stovetops but not induction. For ease of cleaning, it is also dishwasher safe. Overall, it is a nice choice if you’re looking to add reliable cookware into your existing collection.
Pros
- Lifetime Limited Warranty
- Easy cleanup and maintenance
- PFOA-free
- Hard-anodized aluminum for even heating
- Dual riveted handles for easy grip
Cons
- Warping issues
8. Calphalon Contemporary Hard-Anodized Aluminum Non-stick Cookware
Are you shopping around for cookware that can last for years of cooking? You might want to check out the frying pan that lets you enjoy cooking and look forward to long-lasting use. What makes the pan durable is its overall design and construction.
It is made of hard-anodized aluminum that also promotes even cooking. With that said, you don’t just get a heavy-duty pan but also one that can save you plenty of time. So now, you can do other important stuff.
The item is also dishwasher safe, adding to the cleaning convenience. You might also want to check it out if you are looking for cookware that has stayed to a touch handle.
I would also like to note that the item has flat and wide bottoms that can promote even heat distribution and a roomier cooking surface. This model is also with sloped sides that allow easy rolling and tossing. The Calphalon Contemporary Non-stick pan is also safe for oven use up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- Even heating for hard-anodized aluminum construction
- Full lifetime warranty
- Dishwasher safe and oven safe
- Promotes healthier and less fat cooking
- Durable and stay cool to the touch stainless steel handles
Cons
- Bubbling might be an issue with very high heat
9. Vollrath (Z4012) 12″ Wear-Ever CeramiGuard II Fry Pan
The Wear-Ever fry pan is a top-rated product that is made of aluminum with a ceramic coating. It is safe to use and does not emit chemicals. In addition, the cookware features a cool handle that has a removable sleeve, adding to safety and comfort. More so, this handle is safe for the oven for up to 450 degrees
It is also durable for having an aluminum construction, making it the ideal choice if you want to get more out of your spending. In addition, it has a ceramic guard non-stick coating that makes it resistant against dings and scratches. You might also want to check it out for its hard and dent-resistant 8-gauge 3004 aluminum.
It also has an elegant and timeless-looking finish that makes it a great addition to your kitchen, no matter your theme or decoration. It can also promote healthy cooking for using less oil and fat. Overall, you can take a look at the Vollrath (Z4012) for its solid features and high level of performance that you can count on.
Pros
- Wear-resistant
- Durable aluminum construction
- Ceramic Guard II non-stick coating
- Stay cool handle
- Up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit safe
Cons
- Non-stick wears away over time
10. Scanpan CTX 8-Inch Fry Pan
The Scanpan CTX is one of the most reliable choices that you can take a second look at if you want a durable pan. For one, it is with a quality 5-ply construction that is professional grade for an even heat distribution. You can also check out this item if you want versatile cookware that can be used for most cooking surfaces including induction cooktops.
In addition, you can use this pan for a wide range of cooking techniques including deglazing, searing, browning, and braising. More so, it is worth noting that this product is metal-utensil safe, preventing damage to the surface. Even for a longer time, it can remain scratch-free. You can also count on it for ease of cleaning. This item is dishwasher safe
The Scanpan CTX Fry Pans are also with an 18/10 Stainless Steel exterior that enhances their durability. Nevertheless, you can count on it if you’re looking for easy to maintain and durable cookware. It can also offer you a heavy-duty performance for better value of your money.
Pros
- 5-ply construction
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Metal utensil safe
- Ideal even for induction cooking
- 18/10 Stainless Steel exterior
Cons
- A bit expensive
11. Anolon 81888 Advanced Hard-Anodized Non-stick Frying Pan
The skillet is a decent choice because it is made of hard-anodized material that can promote even, fast heating. You can count on it when it comes to equal heat distribution, cutting the food preparation time. With it, you can now spend more time with the ones you love.
In addition, you will like that this item is made of materials, which are harder than stainless steel. It has the durability that can last and let you look forward to years of cooking. This item is made of non-stick material that can help with an effortless cleanup and food release.
More so, it can offer three times the support for the triple riveting on the stainless steel handle that also has an innovative finger guard enhancing stability and hand support. This item is also safe for oven use up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
This skillet also features a flared rim, allowing for dripless pouring. Overall, it is a nice choice that you can count on for its slope-sided design for drip-free pouring and easy cleaning.
Pros
- Oven safe to 500°F
- Convenient to use
- Flared rim for drip-free pouring
- Slope sided for easy rolling and tossing
- Easy cleaning
Cons
- Small cooking surface
12. Swiss Diamond 10.25 Inch Non-stick Fry Pan
You should not miss the Swiss Diamond fry pan if you’re looking for reliable cookware that can last a long time. It is with the solid performance features that you will like to have in a non-stick pan. Even seasoned chefs trust the Swiss Diamond fry pan, and for reasons.
For one, the 10.25-inch pan is with a PFOA-free coating with diamond crystals. With it, you can rest assured of healthier cooking because you can use less oil and fat. In addition, you can check out this item if you want a long-lasting non-stick surface that also allows quick food release and easy maintenance.
This product is also safe to use because no PFOA is used in its manufacture. In addition, this item is made of cast aluminum, adding to its durability. The made-in Switzerland cookware is also oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more functional. Overall, the Swiss Diamond pan is a great choice for its reliability and performance that you can count on to last.
Pros
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- PFOA free
- Easy to maintain and quick food release
- Rivet-free interior to prevent unsightly food buildup
- Dishwasher safe and with an ergonomic handle
Cons
- Not for users looking for a large cooking surface
V. FAQs
Can you store food in the fridge using a non-stick pan?
Yes, you can. There is no need to worry about anything at all. You can store food in the refrigerator without any issues using the non-stick pan.
Can I use non-stick pans even if I am not a chef?
Yes, you can. In fact, it is good to use this cookware even if you’re a beginner. It can also introduce you to healthy cooking because it doesn’t require much oil in cooking. It can also be your versatile kitchen cookware that you can use for many types of cooking methods. With it, you can bring out your creativity in the kitchen and allow you to cook healthier dishes for your family.
Is non-stick safe?
Yes, it is safe if used as intended. Non-stick, in fact, can also help in keeping the heart healthy because you don’t need to use much oil in cooking. With non-stick, you can also cook fat-free because the food won’t stick to the surface. When used at normal temperatures, the non-stick coating is safe for commercial and consumer-used based on much research and studies.
Is non-stick coating wearing off easily?
Many non-stick surfaces can resist flaking, chipping, and peeling if you would be able to get quality ones. It is untrue that they wear off easily because they are designed to resist any damage.
Can you put the non-stick pan in the dishwasher?
The answer to this question is not the same across all pans. If you would be able to buy a pan from a trusted manufacturer, you can put it in the dishwasher. But nevertheless, you should check the manufacturer’s instructions for safety.
Are non-stick coatings all the same?
No, they are not. Those high-quality non-stick coatings are longer lasting than the others are. You must check for reviews and performance features to ensure that you’re buying quality pans. In addition, you should look for durable non-stick pans by referring to user reviews about specific pans, and buy that receives high ratings and positive feedbacks.
Can I deglaze brown or sear using a non-stick pan?
Yes, you can! A non-stick pan is one of the most versatile kitchen cookware to have whether you’re a newbie or seasoned cook. You can use it for searing, browning, or deglazing food. You can also rely on the pan that doesn’t react to food or beverage and can impart a richer flavor to the food because it won’t stick to its surface.
VI. Conclusion
There you have what to know about a non-stick pan so that you can make a better buying decision later. Compare your options well in terms of the qualities and features to look for when checking out different products. Some things to check include durability, price, safety, and material.
In addition, you can refer to the reviews of the top picks so that you can compare different products, each with strengths and weaknesses. These pans are by reputable brands and made of quality materials. They are also well-reviewed by consumers worldwide, giving you clear insights about good pans to consider. Buy the best non-stick pan today!
