It might have been cool to grill and caramelize your meal with a cast iron and stainless steel pan, but the best nonstick pans are kitchen favourites that fry eggs and flip pancakes with a versatility that cannot be matched by other cooking surfaces. Many meals benefit from being baked in a non-stick pan: a slick pan liner ensures that your meal will quickly spill on your plate. As an additional advantage, even though you place a coat of cooking spray on them before placing them on the burner, the non-stick smooth surface of the pan can make them much easier to clean than its stainless steel and cast iron counterparts.
What one can you purchase? As even the best non-stick pans are not intended to last a lifetime, it’s not a pan that you can spend a lot on. Still, you don’t want to buy one that is too easy to graze or fragile. The best pans are securely constructed and easy to use but it’s hard to say in the store which ones in your kitchen would have staying power.
This is where the ratings come in. We have chosen and put to the test some of the finest pans on the market. A qualified chef (that’s me!) flipped hundreds of eggs, fried so many pancakes, and got away with a solid recommendation and a graded list of pans. The All-Clad 4110 NS R2 Non-Stick Fry Pan (available from Amazon) is our top pick, a high-quality non-stick pan that’s just right for daily cooking.
How to Expect When Buying Best NonStick Pans for Cookware
Is it safe for non-stick cookware? You might think, to a certain degree. A material is known as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), widely known as Teflon, is used to render the nonstick coating on conventional nonstick cookware. Health authorities, however, raised questions about the quality of a compound used to produce PFOA known as Teflon (perfluorooctanoic acid). As well as environmental issues, PFOA has been related to health conditions, including kidney and liver disease.
Never bring an empty pan to preheat. Empty pans will exceed high temperatures rapidly.
Never heat the nonstick pan to the full heat. Many manufacturers recommend that nonstick pans not go above medium heat. Some newer nonstick cookware, however, can tolerate higher temperatures, so refer to the manual for your product.
Never broil or sear meat using a nonstick pan. For nonstick pans, these approaches need temperatures that are too high, unless yours can tolerate high temperatures.
Although this data can be daunting, for daily use, nonstick pans are still safe. In fact, at extremely high temperatures, a few of the nonstick cooking utensils we tested were safe to heat. If you are not sure how to use your cookware safely, refer to the manufacturer’s directions.
Our best nonstick pans come in a variety of prices, and you’ll find that the most costly in performance are some of the least expensive competitors. See our full frying pan scores for more options. For information on other pots, including stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel, and copper, you can also review our cookware purchase guide.
Greenlife Soft Grip Ceramic Nonstick 7″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set
Our pick
Not all this skillet has to brag about is being American-made. These best nonstick pans, made of robust high-quality nonstick, can comfortably reach up to 500 degrees F and are ready for induction. Not to mention, it’s healthy for dishwashers.
To hang the skillet from the handle, the smooth matte finish has a wide gap. “We triple-cure these nonstick pans so they won’t degrade over time and have shown to last 10 times longer than other premium brands,” says Greenlife Frying Pan. Adam considers it to have a powerful and high-quality feel, making it a perfect, pro-consumer option that will last for years.
Pros:
- Healthy Ceramic Nonstick: GreenLife pans feature a ceramic nonstick coating for healthier cooking without PFAS.
- Soft Grip Handles: Ergonomically designed handles provide a comfortable and secure grip during cooking.
- Dishwasher Safe: Easy to clean as the pans are dishwasher-safe, enhancing convenience in the kitchen.
- Colorful Aesthetics: The Caribbean Blue color adds a vibrant and stylish touch to your cookware collection.
Cons:
- Nonstick Durability: Ceramic nonstick coatings may wear off over time, requiring careful use and maintenance.
- Limited Size Options: The set includes 7″ and 10″ pans, limiting size variety for different cooking needs.
- Not Induction-Compatible: These pans may not be suitable for induction cooktops, limiting compatibility.
- Potential Scratching: Care must be taken to avoid using metal utensils, as they may scratch the nonstick surface.
Anolon Advanced Hard-Anodized Nonstick Skillet
Our pick
Adam argues that because of its general form and convenience, this skillet just beat out the competition. This cooker came in right in the middle of comfortable and hefty without becoming cumbersome. This one heated the most consistently, with the least disparity between the hottest and coldest spots on the plate, out of all the pans checked.
The Anolon skillet was also the only nonstick skillet that had no noticeable lack of nonstick potential after being scraped with a metal spatula. The only downside to these best nonstick pans is that it’s not going to fit induction burners, and it’s not a reliable dishwasher. Overall, this skillet is a perfect investment because of its consistency and longevity if you can spring for it.
Pros:
- Professional Grade: Anolon Professional Skillet is designed with features suitable for culinary experts and home cooks alike.
- Hard-Anodized Construction: Ensures durability, even heating, and resistance to scratches for long-lasting use.
- Nonstick Interior: Facilitates easy food release and makes cleaning a breeze.
- Comfortable Grip: The ergonomic handle design provides a comfortable and secure grip during cooking.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The professional-grade features may contribute to a higher overall price.
- Single Size Option: The 28cm size may be limiting for those needing different skillet sizes.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This skillet may not be suitable for induction cooktops, limiting versatility.
- Hand Wash Recommended: While the skillet is durable, hand washing is recommended, which may be less convenient for some users.
Best Ceramic Nonstick Pan GreenPan Paris Pro
Our pick
Choosing the right ceramic pan was complicated because we saw more ceramic pans losing their nonstick ability over time than non-ceramic PFOA-free pans. However, the GreenPan Paris Pro emerged as a clear winner. The pan is made of hard-anodized aluminum (even heating!) and has a nonstick Thermolon Minerals ceramic coating that is PTFE- and PFOA-free. It’s scratch-resistant, inductive-compatible, and oven-safe up to 600 degrees—a big advantage if you always cook in the oven with your nonstick pan.
We liked the look, sound, and heft of the pan—their medium weight was a breeze to use and the pancakes and eggs were perfectly raised off the slick top. Of all the ceramic pans that we tested, the GreenPan Paris Pro tended to have the longest-lasting nonstick coating. Amazon consumers record having owned theirs for more than three years and showing limited signs of wear. One reader states that he had to repair his seven years back, which was a fairly decent tenure relative to the other ceramic pans we reviewed.
The last bonus: this pan comes from GreenPan’s more economical set in Paris. (We also checked a nonstick pan from GreenPan’s main Venice line; more on that below).
Pros:
- Hard Anodized Construction: Durable and scratch-resistant, ensuring a long lifespan for the skillet.
- Healthy Ceramic Nonstick: GreenPan’s nonstick coating promotes healthier cooking without PFAS, PFOA, lead, or cadmium.
- Dishwasher Safe: Easy to clean, as the skillet is dishwasher-safe, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
- Large Size: The 12″ size provides ample cooking space for various recipes and larger quantities.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: Professional-grade features may contribute to a higher overall cost.
- Single Size Option: Limited to the 12″ size, which may be too large for some cooking needs.
- Not Induction-Compatible: The skillet may not be suitable for induction cooktops, limiting compatibility.
- Requires Gentle Utensils: To preserve the nonstick coating, using gentle utensils is recommended, avoiding metal tools that may cause scratches.
Best Traditional Nonstick Pan: Zwilling Madura Plus
Our pick
The Zwilling Madura Plus is definitely the best nonstick pans we’ve ever used. No matter how we fried our eggs—scrambled, sunny-side-up, over-easy—they didn’t adhere to the top of the pan. In fact, the only reason you’d need oil or butter in this pan is because of the taste (something we highly recommend). Because the center is made of forged aluminum, this pan has an effective heat distribution, which ensures that food cooks uniformly and the pan heats up and cools easily.
The four-layer Duraslide nonstick coating is free of PFOA (short for eicosapentaenoic acid, the red flag substance used in Teflon) and Zwilling states that its coating is 40 times more durable than the conventional Teflon coating. The pan is relatively lightweight and has a convenient, heat-proof plastic handle (it’s oven-safe up to 300 degrees) and, while you may use metal utensils on it, wood or plastic utensils are preferred for durability.
The pan worked well in both of our experiments, making uniformly browned pancakes and a fried egg that slid right out of the pan and onto the plate. Numerous online reports testify to the long-term reliability of the pan. It’s not easy to bang up, and the nonstick surface doesn’t even crumble over time. A few members of our team have had a multi-size pan for over a year, and it’s still fine as fresh.
Pros:
- Ceramic Nonstick Coating: Provides excellent food release and easy cleaning without PFOA or PTFE.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures durability, even heat distribution, and corrosion resistance.
- 8-Inch Size: Perfect for small to medium cooking tasks and versatile in the kitchen.
- Oven-Safe: The fry pan is oven-safe, adding versatility for various cooking techniques.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The combination of stainless steel and ceramic nonstick features may result in a higher cost.
- Single Size Option: Limited to the 8-inch size, which may be too small for some cooking needs.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This fry pan may not be suitable for induction cooktops, limiting versatility.
- Handle Heating: Some users may find that the stainless steel handle heats up during stovetop use, requiring caution.
Anolon SmartStack Hard Anodized – Best NonStick Pans
Our pick
CR’s take: This frying pan is part of the space-saving Anolon SmartStack package in which all 10 items are nestled together for storage in two tidy piles—one for pots and one for frying pans. So you should buy it on your own. (If you buy a nesting kit, make sure you put something moist between the bottom of one pan and the top of another.) Pancakes cook uniformly and fried eggs slip out quickly.
While the handle remains cool to the touch, it has become a little loose in our durability measure, where we add pressure to the handle with the instrument in our laboratories. This pan is oven-safe up to 400°F and can be used as an induction cooktop.
Pros:
- Hard Anodized Construction: Ensures durability, even heat distribution, and resistance to scratches.
- Nonstick Interior: Facilitates easy food release and quick cleaning.
- 8-Inch Size: Ideal for small to medium cooking tasks, providing versatility in the kitchen.
- Comfortable Grip: The skillet features a comfortable handle for secure and convenient cooking.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The hard-anodized construction and nonstick features may contribute to a higher cost.
- Single Size Option: Limited to the 8-inch size, which may be too small for certain cooking needs.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This skillet may not be suitable for induction cooktops, limiting its compatibility.
- Hand Wash Recommended: While durable, hand washing is recommended, which may be less convenient for some users.
Nordic Ware Restaurant Cookware 10-Inch Nonstick Fry Pan
Our pick
If for some reason, our first alternative is sold out by the Nordic Ware Restaurant Kitchen equipment 10.5-inch Nonstick Fry Pan is a solid second choice. It’s made of cast aluminum and has flared ends, a bent lip, and a silicone handle—just like our top pick. (Like our top choice, it won’t work on the induction cooktops.)
The Nordic Ware pan coating is not as soft to the touch but does not affect its nonstick quality. Eggs and crepes are as easily removed from the pan as our other options.
Pros:
- Hard Anodized Construction: Provides durability, efficient heat distribution, and resistance to scratches.
- Nonstick Interior: Ensures easy food release and facilitates quick and convenient cleaning.
- Skillet Set: The set includes both 8.5-inch and 10-inch sizes, offering versatility for various cooking tasks.
- Even Heating: Radiance technology promotes even heat distribution for consistent cooking results.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The advanced features and nonstick coating may contribute to a relatively higher cost.
- Limited Color Options: Available only in gray, limiting aesthetic choices for those seeking variety.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This skillet set may not be suitable for induction cooktops, reducing versatility.
- Handle Heating: Some users may find that the handles heat up during stovetop use, requiring caution.
All-Clad B1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set 8″ & 10″
Our pick
If you want more than one pan, the All-Clad B1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Package 8′′ & 10′′ is a fantastic deal. These thick, hard anodized aluminum pans heat evenly (albeit slowly) and cook delicate food as well as a $130 tri-ply nonstick skillet. They also work on all cooktops, including induction (though their bonded steel foundation does not heat as uniformly as the multi-layer encapsulated bottom of the Ozeri pan).
The 10-inch B1 pan is heavier than our top choice (it’s almost 3 pounds, while the Tramontina is only 2 pounds). But the comfortable rounded handles and the superb balance make both the All-Clad B1 pans easy to handle. This package isn’t our top pick, but we think most people can do it with a single nonstick skillet.
Pros:
- Hard Anodized Construction: Ensures durability, quick heating, and resistance to scratches for long-lasting use.
- Nonstick Interior: Facilitates easy food release and straightforward cleaning.
- Two-Piece Set: The set includes both 8-inch and 10.5-inch pans, providing versatility in the kitchen.
- Oven and Broiler Safe: The cookware is safe for use in the oven up to 500°F, offering flexibility in cooking methods.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The advanced features and renowned brand may contribute to a higher overall cost.
- Single Color Option: Available only in black, limiting aesthetic choices for those seeking variety.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This fry pan set may not be suitable for induction cooktops, reducing versatility.
- Handle Heating: Some users may find that the handles heat up during stovetop use, requiring caution.
All-Clad 4110 NS R2 Non-Stick Fry Pan
Our pick
The All-Clad brand is well known for making U.S.-made, bonded stainless-steel panels that are top of everyone’s success list. They make our favorite stainless-steel stove, so we were not surprised when they did our nonstick pan checks. This stove features a famous all-clad stainless-steel bottom and three layers of PFOA-free nonstick coating on top. Although we prefer hand-washing the best nonstick pans, the pan is also dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Features aside, the All-Clad induction-compatible has won top scores on all of our evaluations. Our French omelets slipped effortlessly on the nonstick board, and the pancakes turned out to be light and fluffy. Of all the pans in our test party, the All-Clad was the fastest to warm up and produced the evenest heat, browning both sides of the pancake beautifully. It was one of the heavier pans we tested, but the construction of the straight handle provided balance by moving the weight to the far edge of the pan.
Although it was far too hard to flip eggs easily, the nonstick coating was still added. Eggs released quickly, and we could flip them with a spatula flick—even if we weren’t using some cooking oil.
Our only real concern is the heavy price tag. All-Clad returns the cookware with a limited lifetime warranty, but it does not compensate for usual wear and tear. Several Amazon reviewers note that the warranty does not restore scratches to the nonstick base, so you’ll want to take really careful care of this pricey pan to avoid running into durability problems.
Pros:
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures longevity, even heating, and resistance to corrosion.
- 3-Ply Bonded Design: Features an aluminum core for optimal heat distribution, eliminating hot spots.
- Versatile Use: Induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 600°F, offering flexibility in cooking methods.
- Renowned Brand: All-Clad’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship adds assurance to the product.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The premium stainless steel construction and brand reputation may contribute to a higher cost.
- Single Size Option: Available only in 10 inches, limiting size choices for different cooking needs.
- Handle Heating: Some users may find that the handle heats up during stovetop use, requiring caution.
- Hand Wash Recommended: While durable, hand washing is recommended, which may be less convenient for some users.
Made In Cookware Non-Stick Frying Pan
Our pick
It’s not all this skillet has to brag for being American-made. Crafted from robust high-quality nonstick, it can comfortably reach up to 500 degrees F and is ready for induction. Not to mention, the dishwasher is safe.
The handle has a smooth matte finish with a wide area to carry the skillet. Made In Cookware says, “We triple-cure these best nonstick pans so they won’t degrade over time and have shown to last 10 times longer than other premium brands.” Adam finds it to have a long-lasting and high-quality feel, making it a perfect, pro-consumer pick that will last for years.
Pros:
- Professional-Grade Aluminum: Offers durability, quick heating, and even heat distribution for efficient cooking.
- Nonstick Coating: Facilitates easy food release and simple cleaning for a hassle-free cooking experience.
- 10-Inch Size: Versatile size suitable for various cooking tasks, providing flexibility in the kitchen.
- NSF-Certified: Meets professional standards, ensuring quality and safety in restaurant-grade cookware.
Cons:
- Handle Heating: Some users may find that the handle heats up during stovetop use, requiring caution.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This fry pan may not be suitable for induction cooktops, limiting its versatility.
- Single Size Option: Available only in 10 inches, which may not cater to all cooking needs.
- Limited Aesthetics: The design may lack the aesthetic appeal of some higher-end cookware options.
OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro Dishwasher Safe 10″ Open Frypan
Our pick
Attached to Made In Cookware, American Kitchen Cookware adds another high-quality, American-made stew to the table. “Both pans are well constructed, durable, and covered with a high-end nonstick. Both are safe up to 500 degrees F, induction ready and right-sized for everyday cooking,” Adam says.
The one-piece style heats well and according to Adam, the comfortable handle feels good even with a bare hand. Just like the cookware stove Made In, it’s a healthy dishwasher.
Pros:
- 3-Layered Nonstick Coating: Ensures efficient food release and easy cleaning for a smooth cooking experience.
- Stainless Steel Handle: Provides a durable and comfortable grip, adding stability during cooking.
- Dishwasher Safe: Easy to clean, as the skillet is dishwasher-safe, saving time and effort.
- Oven Safe: Allows for versatile cooking methods, as the skillet is safe for use in the oven.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The advanced features, including the nonstick coating and stainless steel handle, may contribute to a higher cost.
- Single Size Option: Available only in 10 inches, limiting size choices for different cooking needs.
- Not Induction-Compatible: This skillet may not be suitable for induction cooktops, reducing versatility.
- Handle Heating: Some users may find that the handle heats up during stovetop use, requiring caution.
Conclusion:
Selecting the best nonstick pan for your cookware arsenal involves careful consideration of various factors such as construction, coating quality, size, and additional features. The top 10 nonstick pans featured in this guide offer a diverse range of options catering to different cooking preferences and needs.
Before making a purchase, it is essential to evaluate your individual cooking habits and requirements. Whether you prioritize durability, versatility, or specific cooking features, the right nonstick pan should align with your culinary preferences and enhance your cooking experience.
Ultimately, investing in a high-quality nonstick pan from the list ensures efficient cooking, easy food release, and convenient cleaning. By weighing the pros and cons and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision to find the perfect nonstick pan that suits your kitchen and cooking style.
