Best Non Stick Pans

There are do-it-yourself tricks to create a nonstick pan. Add an 1/8-inch of vegetable oil (or coconut oil) to the bottom of a pan. Let it heat up for about six minutes. And then wipe as needed. However, once you get to the DIY instructions about not being able to wash the pan or it’ll lose it’s nonstick surface, it might be time to just get the best nonstick pan you can. Who wants a pan that they cannot wash anyway?

Once you invest in this nonstick cookware, avoid treating any of these the way you would other pots and pans. Recipes that call for certain kinds of oil may be better suited for your tried and trusty alternate pans—or choose a nonstick pan that specifically states that it’s nonstick chemicals can handle oil. Otherwise you may end up stripping the nonstick material on your new cookware the same way as you would with the DIY pot-and-pan job.

If you are concerned about chemicals being on even the best nonstick cookware, we take that into consideration with this list. Some material (such as Teflon) no longer has concerning chemicals. If you’re a brand consumer who only wants top rated non stick pans, read on. While some of the best nonstick pans may be more economical with unfamiliar brand names, there are other brands that you will immediately recognize. The goal with this list of 14 is to find the best non stick frying pans for your particular cooking needs—and without all the proof of your meal left behind.

Best Non Stick Fry Pans

1. Calphalon Premier Space Saving Stainless Steel 15 Piece Set

If you’ve ever purchased or received a set of pots with lids included, you know how much of a nuisance it can be to find a place to keep all the tops without them falling over in a cabinet. The pots can usually stack on top of each other, but the lids become a terrible game of Jenga. However, the flat-tempered glass on this stainless steel set makes it the best non stick cookware for minimal storage.

Key Features

• 8-inch fry pan, 10-inch fry pan, 12-inch fry pan, 2.5-qt saucepan (lid), 3.5-qt saucepan (lid), 4.5-qt soup pan (lid), 3-qt saute pan (lid), 5-qt sauteuse (lid), 8-qt stockpot (lid)
• Stainless steel handles keep cool temperature
• Three-layered metal for heat distribution

As with all hot pans, make sure these are completely cool before putting them in water. Safe to cook at up to 450 degrees, these pans can also be cleaned in a dishwasher. They are safe to use on electric, electric coil, gas, glass and halogen stovetops.

Cons

• Pans individually may be heavy (total weight is 41.6 pounds)
• May be awkward to hold for draining water due to position of lid tops

In all fairness, even pots that do not have flat-tempered glass can be stacked by turning the tops upside down. But the glass on these pots give you the option to peek inside to see if your food is ready instead of lifting thicker and/or color lids.

2. T-fal E91898 Ultimate Nonstick Pan

As creative as you can be with a wok, sometimes you may want to have a durable pan that is study, durable and can handle a combination of foods all at once. This hard titanium material may be the best non-stick pans you need for your next meal.

Key Features

• 12-inch pan
• Hard-anodized aluminum construction
• Thermo-Spot heat indicator for preheating

The hard titanium nonstick interior is intended for durability and lengthier performance. And the silicone handles come in handy for a firm, safe grip while adjusting pans and stirring food. Oven safe as high as 400 degrees, these have a TechnoResist anti-warp base. If you’re looking for the best nonstick skillet that works with your metal spatulas and other cookware, this is it.

Cons

• Not compatible with induction stoves

Verify warranty instructions before placing in a dishwasher. While the Amazon promotion states that this pan is dishwasher safe, some consumers didn’t have the best luck with dishwashers. If this pan is not the best choice for you or has defects, there is a limited lifetime warranty.

3. T-fal Specialty Nonstick Pan

Every household needs a variety of pans, both to avoid wearing your “favorite” pan out from nonstop cooking. Also, there will more than likely be meals that you just don’t need all that space for. This is a great starter gift for college students with off-campus apartments or anyone with their first new apartment.

Key Features

• 8-inch, 9.5 inch and 11-inch pans
• Recyclable
• No cadmium or lead

If you’ve noticed pans being marked as “PFOA-free,” that’s in reference to the man-made chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), or C8. While there are suspicions of this chemical affecting the liver and immune system, there’s not enough scientific data to confirm or deny this.

In the meantime, it couldn’t hurt to buy on the safe side with this three-piece gray set of pans. They also have handles that are ergonomically designed for comfort and safety.

Cons

• Heat marker either missing or different, according to some reviewers
• Several reviewers complained of easily breaking handles

Safe to use in your oven at up to 350 degrees, the aluminum construction has a heat base designed to cook all foods evenly. This three-piece set has a lifetime limited warranty.

4. Tramontina 80114/535DS Professional Nonstick Fry Pan

You don’t have to worry about PFOA with this nonstick pan. Made up of nonstick material on the exterior and interior areas of the pans, these pans ideally keep remnants of food from sticking around long after you’re done cooking.

Key Features

• 10-inch pan
• Commercial-grade 3004 aluminum
• Heavy-gauge construction for even heating

Made from a high-performance, reinforced interior, this nonstick frying pan is dishwasher and oven safe. The cast-stainless steel handle has a soft grip for easy pickup. Hang on a wall or cabinet when not in use. And if you don’t want to use the handle, feel free to remove it and enjoy on the satin, exterior finish as is.

Cons

• Not compatible with induction stoves

National Sanitation Foundation-certified and safe to use at up to 400 degrees, this pan is compatible for ceramic, electric and gas stovetops. If it’s not your preferable pan, there is also a lifetime warranty.

5. MICHELANGELO V04 Nonstick Frying Pan Set

Although you may have a tough time trying to find other kitchen accessories or appliances that match this colorful set, if you’re into pans with a bit more pizzazz, why not try these? Originally from Haan, Germany, Michelangelo Kitchenware (formerly Michelin) was one of the leading manufacturers in Europe (since 1931). With an original focus on high-end cutlery products, the company has since expanded to cookware.

Key Features

• 44-inch and 11-inch pans
• Durable rolled rim for drip-free pouring
• Soft-grip handles

These green-friendly pans are free of PFOA, lead and cadmium. If you see nonstick pans that mention polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), you may not recognize this term. However, you will probably recognize the term “Teflon.” Reportedly the best Teflon pans stopped including PFOA in the past few years (2013).

The triple construction base has heat conduction magnets, a heat accumulation base and a thickening base. The nontoxic granite coating on the skillets has a flat bottom for even heat distribution. This set is also compatible for gas, glass and induction stereotypes.

Cons

• Several users reported a domed bottom instead of a flat surface

Although hand washing is recommended, these pans can be used in a dishwasher. Scratch resistant and ultra nonstick, food slides right onto your plate. If used on low or medium heat, these pans should stand the test of time.

6. Utopia Kitchen Induction Nonstick Frying Pan 

Every pan is not meant for every stove. The rough bottoms on bare cast irons make them not so great for glass or ceramic stovetops. Stainless steel, aluminum and copper (such as this pan) are much better suited for these kinds of stovetops. And this one is a bright copper-painted pan with top-rated 3003 aluminum alloy.

Key Features

• 5-inch pan
• PFLUON interior
• Air-flow technology

This round frying plan with a 4-mm thick glass lid is durable and ideal for professional grade frying. Although it has an induction bottom, it’s still safe to use on electric stovetops.

Cons

• Avoid using sharp, pointy objects to remove food from pan

Use a wooden or plastic spatula to remove loose food. Don’t worry. The pan is scratch resistant so these utensils won’t hurt it. Although it’s dishwasher safe, traditional dishwater soap and a soft nylon scrubber or sponge will clean as needed. Use a paper towel to dry the pan, and hang it nearby for next use.

7. Calphalon Premier Space Saving Nonstick Everyday Pan

Maybe you don’t need an entire set of Calphalon pans. If you’re probably not going to use an entire set, just purchase an individual and durable pan like this. Save 30 percent of cabinet space with this flat-tempered glass lid plus pan. And it’s always a relief to have a pan with handles that stay regardless of what’s frying inside.

Key Features

• 12-inch pan
• Stackable in any order
• Hard anodized aluminum and metal utensil safe

Although this pan is listed as metal utensil safe, generally it’s a good idea to skip metal. Don’t add wear and tear if you don’t have to. The stainless steel handles also stay cool while you’re cooking. The loop handles on this pot make it easier to move around for frying and stirring as needed.

Cons

• Several reviewers confirm the handle can get uncomfortably hot

Enjoy this pan on a variety of stovetops, including electric, electric oil, gas, glass and halogen.

8. GreenLife Soft Grip Ceramic Non-Stick Open Frypan Set

Although no meal will be perfect all the time, using pans with Thermolon helps to even out heat distribution so foods won’t brown, sear or fry in odd spots. Ideally the menu items will be all ready at once. And with the help of the sand derivative sprayed onto the pans to create a nonstick surface, these pans are easy to cook with, to use and 100 percent safe.

Key Features

• 7-inch and 10-inch pans
• Thermolon healthy ceramic nonstick coating
• Ergonomic handle

The soft-touch handle keeps cool while you cook your next meal on the thick, aluminum base. These two pans have no harmful chemicals or toxins. Oven safe at up to 350 degrees, this duo has no manmade chemicals such as perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFAs) or PFOA.

If you’re not a big fan of greasy foods or lots of oil, the reinforced body without lead and cadmium is smooth enough to wipe off with a towel. Although you may find yourself not needing to use a dishwasher, they are dishwasher safe.

Cons

• Several cooks complained about burning and nonstick surface removed after using oil in pans
• Avoid extra virgin olive oil and/or cooking spray, which will hurt nonstick surface

And if you’re still a newbie cook or having a bad cooking day, this set has no toxic fumes that come up if/when overheating. Dishwasher safe with easy cleanup, these pans have a lifetime warranty. Although misuse and accidents are not covered, defects can be replaced or fixed free of charge.

9. Calphalon Nonstick Cookware

From burgers to pancakes and any other dish, get creative with this square griddle pan. Skip the fat and excess oils. Just enjoy your pancakes, burgers, French toast and more. Oven safe, too, this square griddle pan can be used to reheat or cook food as high as 450 degrees.

Key Features

• 11-inch pan
• Heavy-gauge aluminum construction
• Hard-anodized for durability

The three layers of nonstick coating increase durability and easy-release performance. And you can skip the pot holders because these stainless steel handles stay cool, even on a stovetop. Although this griddle has a flat surface, there is a slender lip that will contain potential cooking liquids. Flip per usual with a spatula but avoid the greasy mess normally found on sticky pans.

Cons

• Cooking spray ruins nonstick surface
• Not ideal for foods with natural liquids (ex. bacon) because of dripping

This pan is dishwasher safe and has a full lifetime warranty.

10. Cook N Home Nonstick Ceramic Mini Fry

Some foods can be completed in square pans. Some work out better with circle pans. And some are so big that they need a catch option for natural grease (ex. bacon). But why not get creative with foods that traditionally look a certain way? One reviewer suggested using the square griddle pan to make eggs into square shapes for sandwiches. Think outside the box with your nonstick pans.

Key Features

• 5-inch pans
• Mini-size one egg frying pans
• Square toast griddle pan
• Square grill pan

Made of thick gauge aluminum, the nonstick ceramic coating makes these pans easy to clean by hand or in a dishwasher. With soft touch, anti-slip handles, you can skip the pan holders.

Cons

• Not safe for induction stovetops
• Not oven safe
• Manufacturer warranty unclear (must request it after purchase)

Lightweight as they are (1.5 pounds), you can flip your circular (or square) pancakes as needed with minimal fuss.

11. Nonstick Frying Pans

Maybe you need a handle. Maybe you don’t. This marble square nonstick frying pan has a glass lid for preparing food. And if you would prefer to use a heat-resistant, soft-touch handle, this wood one will do the trick.

Key Features

• 11-inch pan
• Compatible with all stovetops
• 100 percent PFOA free

Environmentally friendly with eye-catching wood handles, these pans are made from die-casting aluminum. Make your meals with even heat distribution in lightweight and heat conductive cookware. And you can skip your oven mitts and towels; the (removable) handle and soft-touch silicone knob are heat resistant.

Cons

• Not safe for induction stovetops
• Manufacturer warranty unclear (must request it after purchase)

Available in maroon, black, white and gray, enjoy these dishwasher-safe pans with an attractive marble design. Help the pans stay durable and scratch resistant by only using heat-resistant nylon, plastic or wooden spatulas.

12. MasterPan Double Sided Non-Stick Grill and Griddle Pan

Are you in the mood for a dinner on the grill? Enjoy it, and then maybe try the large griddle on the other side tomorrow.

Key Features

• 15 x 10-inch grill and griddle pan
• Stain resistant
• MasterLon double-layer, nonstick coating

Whether you want to go outside and grill or put this 2-in-1 pan in the oven (up to 350 degrees), expect even heat distribution and no hot spots. Chances are high that this pan will be used for grilling juicy meats that have natural oils, so this PFOA-free cookware is made with raised edges to prevent spills.

Cons

• Not safe for induction stovetops
• May or may not fit one or two stovetop burners (depending on the stove)

To save space, remove the detachable wooden handle and put it alongside the pan. Re-attach when you’re ready for Round 2.

13. CeraPan Perfect Grip Nonstick Fry Pan

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can make meal preparation prove to be quite the task. With sporadic tenderness, swelling and stiffness, it is essential to have pans that are easier to grip. And the patented handle on this pan is engineered for a suitable grip.

Key Features

• 5-inch pan
• Non-scratch technology compatible with metal utensils
• Ceramic and titanium ultracoat surface

You have a choice between the black and red frying pans, or a gray pot with red handles. No oils or butter are needed to prevent sticking.

Cons

• Silicone trim may hold onto grease

Although the actual pan is nonstick, the silicon trim may not be as easy to clean. You could always take it off to clean and re-assemble, but this may prove to be time consuming after awhile. Avoid greasier foods in hopes of having to replace or constantly wash the top ring. Or, only use the top on foods that don’t usually have natural oils and/or grease.

14. Circulon Symmetry Nonstick French Skillet

Pretty much every cook has run into that set of nonstick pans that does indeed stick. But this PFOA-free metal pan has raised circles and a triple layer, plus an easy cleanup option. Ideally this makes these pans mess-free and easy to use and hold.

Key Features

• 10-inch and 12-inch pans
• Circulon nonstick technology
• Compatible with all stovetops

Choose one of these heavy duty, hard-anodized aluminum construction pans in attractive colors: black, chocolate and merlot. Safe to use with metal utensils, these nonstick frying pans have raised circles and a triple layer for easy cleanup. For arthritic consumers, the rubberized stainless steel handles should be convenient and comfortable to maneuver. While cooking by hand is always advisable, these are dishwasher safe.

Cons

• Several consumers had issues with returning pans, especially if they’d used high heat

Although the listing claims that these nonstick frying pans will last 10 times as long as “ordinary” frying pans without the nonstick material, make sure to follow the warranty instructions.

Bottom Line

Take advantage of pans such as the ones above to enjoy a healthier lifestyle with less greasy foods. Not only are they usually chemical free, but they help your foods be fat free. Oftentimes, even when we make healthy foods such as vegetables that should be healthy, the amount of grease and butter used to avoid the pans sticking to the surface is counterproductive for vitamin intake.

And nonstick pans aren’t hard to come by. However, making the pans last the length of time that manufacturers promise may be another story entirely. Before using any of the pans above, pay special attention to the recommended cooking utensils to use with the pans. Generally, heat-resistant nylon, plastic or wooden spatulas are safe for use on these pans. Extra virgin olive oil (although healthier than grease/fat) and other oils are usually frowned upon because they clash with the stick-resistant pan material.

Keep in mind though that there are some nonstick pans that work out just fine with metal cookware and oily ingredients. Just as you would follow the wash instructions on your favorite outfit to keep it lasting longer, have the same motto with your cookware. See what works for which product, and “wash” and use with these tips in mind. Make sure to keep your warranty information handy. If it’s not included in the box, request it immediately after ordering these products.