Nonstick pans are a must-have for cooks of all levels—from fluffy scrambled eggs and golden homemade pancakes to crispy fried rice, this kitchen essential does it all. With this type of pan, you can often reduce the amount of oil that you use, and cleaning up is simple when food slides right off the surface.
With so many options to wade through, choosing the perfect ceramic-coated or traditional nonstick pans can be a challenge, but we’ve got you covered. With this type of cookware being such a powerhouse on the market nowadays, we have taken to testing any and all options—for years. And our robust processes have led us to find the very best of the best when it comes to nonstick pans.
Best Overall
All-Clad Hard Anodized Fry Pans
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- Durable construction and coating
- Excellent nonstick performance
- Easy to clean
- No large-diameter pan
- Hand-washing is recommended
If one nonstick frying pan is good, two is better. This set includes both an 8-inch and a 10-inch frying pan, so you’ll always have the pan you need. (However, we do with there was an even larger option for when you’ve got a lot on your plate.) A stainless steel base keeps the pans from warping and makes them suitable for use on induction cooktops. They have a hard-anodized nonstick finish and are made from aluminum for even heating.
The nonstick surface is a cut above cheaper nonstick pans—after a few weeks of use, we found that the pans looked almost new. We thought these felt incredibly sturdy, and also found that they actually retain their nonstick capabilities for the long haul better than other similar models and manage to look brand new even after weeks of use.
The handles are stainless steel and designed for a comfortable grip and are riveted onto the pan for security. The pans are oven-safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. While they can be washed in a dishwasher, hand washing is recommended. Lids are not included.
Finish: Hard anodized nonstick | Oven Safe: 500 degrees | Sizes: 8 and 10 inches (included in the set)
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Best Professional-Grade
Tramontina Professional Fry Pans
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- Durable construction
- Effective nonstick coating
- Large, versatile cooking surface
- Not recommended for lots of high-heat cooking
For those who need a nonstick pan that will stand up to the rigors of everyday use, then this model from Tramontina is right up your alley. Made of heavy-gauge aluminum, it’s thicker and heavier than most similarly sized nonstick frying pans, and is designed to heat evenly and stay put on your cooktop.
We found that this pan was indeed very nonstick, regardless of what was being cooked—eggs and sausages released without worry, and adding thick sauces (like a classic tomate sauce), which often stick or burn, was easy, even when using medium-high heat.
It comes in an 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, or 14-inch version so you can choose the model that works best for your household (or buy a few!). This pan is PFOA-free, plus it is also dishwasher safe.1 The handle has a red silicone sleeve that remains cool to the touch and this is oven safe up to 400 degrees. The manufacturer recommends not to use cooking spray or heat above high on this to preserve the nonstick coating. So for those who like to cook on high heat, this might not be the best choice for you.
Finish: Non-PFOA nonstick | Oven Safe: 400 degrees | Sizes Available: 8, 10, 12, and 14 inches
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Best High-End
HexClad Hybrid Pan
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- Sturdy construction
- Stands up to metal utensils
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Expensive
This nonstick frying pan by HexClad has a unique cooking surface, boasting a grid of laser-etched stainless steel and nonstick that easily releases food and allows quick and simple cleanup. It also can be used at high heat to crisp foods in oil or to sear meats for the best flavor. It has a wide flat base and a low profile with flared sides, ideal for sautéing, flipping foods in the pan, or reducing sauce.
We use this pan regularly for tasks like searing steaks and cooking omelets, like the classic French, and enjoy how easy it is to maneuver. We should note that it heats up quicker than traditional nonstick skillets—so much so that you will need to be careful that the pan is not too hot when cooking eggs so they don’t stick.
This piece of cookware is built to last, which is evident by its solid construction (and its price tag). The stay-cool handle is comfortable to hold and is securely riveted onto the pan. The pan is oven and broiler-safe to 600 degrees Fahrenheit and can be used on any cooking surface, including induction. Due to its surface, it’s also incredibly easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
Material: Aluminum | Finish: Stainless steel, ceramic | Oven Safe: 600 degrees | Sizes Available: 8, 10, and 12 inches
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Best Budget
T-Fal 3-Piece Fry Pan
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- Affordable
- Range of sizes
- Passes the “egg test”
- Can’t stand high heat
If you’re looking for budget nonstick cookware, this three-pack will ensure that you always have a pan on hand. It includes an 8-inch, a 9.5-inch, and an 11-inch skillet, so you’ll always have one to cook eggs and another for pancakes. They’re ideal for beginner cooks just learning to make dishes like pan-seared salmon—send a pan or two to college with your kid. Since they’re so inexpensive, they’re ideal for a vacation home, but they’re sturdy enough for home cooking, too.
These skillets are made from a durable aluminum construction for fast and even heating, and the nonstick surface means your omelet will let go easily when you make breakfast. In fact, during testing, we were able to cook both eggs and pancakes with minimal sticking using very little oil. The handles stay cool while cooking and the pans are oven-safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re not as heat resistant as higher-end cookware but can withstand the heat required to finish a steak or keep your side dishes warm.
For easy cleaning, you can put these in the dishwasher. They do not include lids but are available in several different colors to match your kitchen or add a pop of color.
Finish: Traditional nonstick | Oven Safe: 350 degrees | Sizes: 8, 9.5, and 11 inches (included in the set)
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Best Eco-Friendly
Caraway Fry Pan
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- Comes in a variety of stylish colors
- Chemical-free nonstick coating
- Oven safe to 550 degrees Fahrenheit
- Can be used on all cooktops, including induction
- Handles get hot
- Hand wash only
Previously only sold as a set, Caraway Home’s sleek cookware can now be purchased individually or in a mini size. This 8- or 10.5-inch frying pan is one of the must-have pieces of the collection, perfect for cooking eggs, sauteing vegetables, and more. Like the rest of the Caraway cookware set, this pan features a ceramic nonstick layer (no PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, or heavy metals).213 Since this pan conducts heat evenly and very efficiently, the manufacturer suggests cooking over low and medium heat and avoiding super high temperatures that can wear away the nonstick coating.
One of the few qualms we’ve had with this pan is that the stainless steel handles do tend to get hot while in use, but it is not a dealbreaker. Just make sure to have potholders on standby if you need to grab the pan’s handle.
Caraway’s frypan stands up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven, which is higher than most traditional nonstick pans—perfect for sliding filet mignon under the broiler. It is also compatible with just about every cooktop, including induction. The company recommends hand washing its cookware in order to prolong the life of the nonstick coating.
Finish: Ceramic nonstick | Oven Safe: 550 degrees | Sizes Available: 8 and 10.5 inches
Best Hybrid
Anolon X Nonstick Frying Pan
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- Compatible with induction
- Able to sear at high heat
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Resistant to metal utensils
- Expensive
This innovative pan from Anolon is made from aluminum with a proprietary surface, an embedded stainless steel grid, and a stainless steel base, marrying a nonstick surface with the capability to cook at high heat for searing. This pan is also designed to keep oil in the center of the pan instead of running to the edges, keeping it underneath food and over the heat source to achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear.
We found that the pan lived up to its promises, allowing us to sear scallops and brown vegetables easily, and with no sticking. The helper handle also proved to be a useful feature of this pan, making it easier to transport on and off the stove or from the oven, even with oven mitts on.
It’s truly a workhorse of a pan; it heats quickly, is very responsive to temperature changes, and also retains heat well—the trifecta of being a stellar pan to cook with. On top of that, it’s safe to use with metal utensils, can be used on any cooktop, and can also go into the oven (safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s ideal for dishes that require finishing in the oven, like pork tenderloin with dijon and rosemary. Cleaning is very easy—it’s dishwasher safe, but hand-washing is recommended to preserve its surface. All in all, the only real drawback is the hefty price tag, but the price seems reasonable when compared with its sturdy build and versatility in the kitchen.
Finish: Anolon proprietary nonstick | Oven Safe: 500 degrees | Sizes Available: 8.25 inches, 10 inches, 12 inches
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Best Grill Pan
Rachael Ray Nonstick Grill Pan
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- Affordable price
- Easy to clean
- A truly nonstick surface
- Can be used on induction cooktops
Regular frying pans are fine for cooking steaks, burgers, and vegetables, but a grill pan does it better, leaving attractive grill marks and allowing grease and juices to drain away so you won’t be simmering or steaming your food. Grilled polenta slices will be crispy and beautifully marked. You can use this for fish, vegetables, or for grilling fruit or pound cake for dessert, too.
The pan has a comfortable rubberized orange handle that’s riveted on for durability, and the exterior hard-anodized pewter finish will stay good-looking for years. The pan is oven-safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can finish your chops in the oven or keep vegetables warm for serving.
This is made from aluminum, so it’s not compatible with induction cooktops. It is dishwasher safe, but the nonstick finish makes it simple to clean by hand as well.
Finish: Hard-anodized nonstick | Oven Safe: 400 degrees | Sizes Available: 11 inches
Best Versatile
Zavor Noir Nonstick 6 qt. Cast Aluminum Covered Saute Pan
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- Generous capacity suitable for large families
- Oven safe up to 550 degrees
- Nonstick surface is easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Bulky to store
- Takes up too much space in dishwasher
For the times you need a pot that can do just about everything, this 6-quart saute pan from Zavor’s Noir collection is outstanding. “I love how versatile this pan is—I used it to make pancakes, brown meats, fry crab cakes, and roast a whole branzino,” says Bernadette Machard de Gramont, our cookware expert. Made from durable cast aluminum, it features a high-quality ceramic interior that makes the surface incredibly nonstick. The handles have removable silicone grips that keep cool while the pan is being used on the stove; also included is a flat tempered glass lid. The pan itself is oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit without its lid.
The large 14.5-inch surface can be used as a griddle, the high walls are conducive to shallow and deep-frying, and the silicone grips can be removed so you can place the entire pan in the oven—use it to roast a chicken on top of a bed of root vegetables, or make a pan of easy cheesy baked ziti.
While many will consider its large capacity a plus, those who are limited on space might find it challenging to store as it is quite wide. It is dishwasher safe, but it takes up a lot of room in the dishwasher so it’s easier to just wash it by hand. Luckily, that’s easy—stuck-on food like melted cheese or browned bits slide right off.
Finish: Whitford Fusion Ti Ceramic Coating | Oven Safe: 550 degrees | Sizes Available: 6-quart
Final Verdict
The All-Clad Nonstick Fry Pan Set is our top pick because of its exceptional nonstick performance and quality of construction. Its coating resisted major scratching even after weeks of testing. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, try the T-fal B363S3 Specialty Nonstick Nonstick 3-Piece Set, which offers a wide range of sizes at a fraction of the price.
How We Tested
Over the past two years, we’ve tested over 40 nonstick cookware sets in our Lab. We evaluated their temperature consistency and distribution, nonstick performance, design, and ease of cleaning. Our testers also observed whether or not there was any chemical smell when heating the pans, any major temperature disparity across different spots in each pan, any sticking while making French omelets or scorching when heating tomato sauce, noting any sticking or burning when making rice pilaf, and gauging how easy each pan was to clean by hand.
An additional round of testing in 2023 with the pieces on this list (plus a dozen other popular picks) let us further evaluate how they fared when cooking eggs, rice, and sautéeing onions to see if our initial observations still held true. We also considered how comfortable these pans were to hold, how easy they are to maneuver, and compared overall performance to cost, determining whether or not they were a great value.
We also sent several nonstick pans to our editors to test at home to see how they perform in a “real life” setting and to test the durability of the nonstick coating when subjected to regular use.
We Observed
- Nonstick qualities: We put the nonstick surfaces to the test with “high-stick” foods like eggs and rice. Those sets that released easily with minimal sticking earned the top spots on our list.
- Temperature consistency: We used thermocouples to monitor the temperatures across the pan’s surface, noting any hot spots. We also observed how evenly we were able to cook a French omelet and rice pilaf to further assess the pan’s performance.
- Maneuverability: We checked to make sure we could easily hold the pan, noting if it required one or two hands to maintain control. We also tried tossing ingredients to see if this pan was easy to manipulate without using utensils.
We Rated
- Durability: The surface of nonstick cookware can be notoriously delicate when it comes to scratches, so we tested their compatibility with metal utensils if they claimed to be safe to use. Pans whose surfaces survived metal implements with very little to no damage earned the highest ratings.
- Design and Ease of Use: In addition to overall aesthetic appeal, we rated these pans based on how easy they were to transport on and off the stove, and how balanced they felt in the hand. We also took into account handle ergonomics and how comfortable they were to maneuver when filled with food.
- Overall Performance: We made scrambled eggs, fried eggs, and French omelets to test the nonstick capabilities and heating capabilities of these pans. We also simmered tomato sauce and made rice pilaf to check for hot spots and scorching. Pans that cooked evenly and released food without much effort earned 5 stars in this category.
About Our Testers
- Our Lab team has spent collective decades working in professional kitchens, developing recipes, and testing kitchen gear.
- Bernadette Machard de Gramont, an expert in home cookware, was also interviewed and helped us assess the data from every cookware test. She advises making a French omelet to test heat responsiveness and warns it’s definitely time to toss your nonstick if the coating is flaking or scratched.
- Amanda McDonald is the Commerce Updates Editor for The Spruce Eats. She uses her Caraway cookware on a weekly, almost daily, basis and regularly updates us on how it’s faring, paying special attention to the wear-and-tear on the ceramic coating.
Other Options We Tested
- All-Clad Fusiontec Skillet: We actually really liked this skillet—it performed very well in our tests, while also having an exceptional nonstick quality and a stylish appearance. But we found it to be very expensive for a single piece. If you’re looking to splash out on a high-performing nonstick piece, this might be for you.
What To Look for in a Nonstick Pan
Material
Nonstick pans can be made out of many types of base material, which will help determine how well they conduct, maintain, and respond to heat. The lightest and most popular of these metals is aluminum, which conducts heat well and can be used on a variety of cooktops (though look for one with a stainless steel base if you have an induction cooktop). Stainless steel is another popular choice: these pans tend to be heavier, with a more substantial thickness that makes them less susceptible to dings and dents. Copper is another great option because it has superior heat conductivity and is extremely responsive to changes in heat. As for the interior, there’s polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), hard-anodized aluminum, and ceramic, which we’ll cover later.2
Size
If you’re looking for a nonstick pan to cook breakfast for one or two, a small skillet or pot will save you storage space. A good starting point for a skillet is a 10-inch model: it’s roomy but not too bulky to store in a small kitchen. Another great essential nonstick pan is a 6-quart stockpot, ideal for cooking rice or thick stews and allowing for easy cleanup.
Types of Nonstick Cookware
Traditional Nonstick
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon, is the most popular coating for traditional nonstick cookware.2 Pans coated with PTFE are easy to use and clean, but the coatings eventually wear away with use. The primary issue with PTFE is the deterioration of the coating, which starts to happen at 450 degrees. At high temperatures, PTFE releases fumes, so it is not recommended to use traditional nonstick pans for high-heat cooking.
Ceramic
The coating for ceramic nonstick cookware is made from silica, a component of beach sand. The pan’s interior is either sprayed or dip-coated, then cured by high-firing in an oven. While traditional nonstick pans need at least three coatings, ceramic coatings can require as little as just one layer, saving time and energy during the manufacturing process. Ceramic cookware sold in the U.S. and Europe must also adhere to regulations that prohibit lead or cadmium. The biggest drawback of ceramic is more susceptible to developing surface cracks and losing its nonstick properties faster due to its brittleness in comparison to PTFE.
Hard-anodized aluminum
The nonstick surface of hard-anodized aluminum cookware differs from PTFE and ceramic surfaces in that it is actually part of the pan, not layered on as a coating. It is made by an electrochemical process that hardens soft aluminum, making it stronger than stainless steel, and giving it an oxidized top layer. This top layer is nonstick and tougher than applied nonstick coatings. Hard anodized aluminum can stand up to higher temperatures and resists scratches from metal utensils, and won’t react with acidic foods. It is the most durable type of nonstick surface since it is not prone to chipping or flaking.
FAQs
What is nonstick coating?
The first nonstick coating, polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, was created by mistake in 1938 at DuPont’s New Jersey research lab. A slippery, water and heat-resistant material was born—trademarked as Teflon—and used primarily in military and industrial applications, then became a major part of the cookware industry in the 1960s. While PTFE is still used today to coat wires, fabrics, and much more, other nonstick coatings have emerged as alternatives. Such substitutes include PFOA- and PTFE-free ceramic coating and hard-anodized aluminum.
How do you season a nonstick pan?
Usually, nonstick pans don’t require seasoning before first use, though there are some exceptions. Over time, you may need to re-season your pan to restore its nonstick properties. To do so, heat some canola oil up in the pan on the stovetop. After a minute or so, turn it off, let the pan cool, and then wipe out the excess oil with a paper towel. Ghee and butter can also be used to re-season your pan, but cooking sprays can cause buildup that can actually cause your food to start sticking.
Can you put a nonstick pan in the oven?
Nonstick cookware is generally safe for low and medium temperatures, though some of the more modern versions can stand higher heat. Traditional PTFE coatings are generally safe to about 400 degrees Fahrenheit; ceramic coatings can typically withstand higher temperatures (over 500 degrees with some models); hard-anodized cookware can fall somewhere between 400 to 500 degrees, depending on the manufacturer. If you often start foods on the stove and finish them in the oven, make sure to check what temperatures the cookware can withstand, so you won’t have to transfer from one pan to another to finish your cooking.
Can you use nonstick pans on a gas stove or induction stove?
Most nonstick cookware functions just fine on gas, electric, and halogen cooktops. They are also a good choice for those looking for cookware sets for glass stoves. However, always check with the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure. The most common material used to make nonstick cookware is aluminum, which is not induction-friendly on its own. If you have an induction cooktop, look for one that has a stainless steel base that specifies it is compatible for use with this type of stove.
Can you put nonstick pans in the dishwasher?
Though many nonstick pans are said to be dishwasher safe, it is almost always a better idea to stick to handwashing. Cleaning nonstick is generally easy—using a non-abrasive scrubber to remove any debris along with gentle dishwashing soap should do the trick.
How long do nonstick pans last?
Nonstick pans generally last up to five years, but the actual lifespan will depend on the type of coating and how well the pans are cared for. Keep in mind that nonstick cookware generally wears out more quickly than stainless steel, copper, or enameled cast iron pieces and will need to be replaced at some point. Treating your nonstick pans correctly will help you extend the life of your cookware. You will want to avoid overheating your pans, as excessive heat can start to break down your nonstick coating. To protect your pans against scratches, avoid using sharp or metal utensils on the interior; should you see any cracking or flaking, it’s time for a replacement.
Many manufacturers offer some type of limited warranty against defects in material, construction, or workmanship. This warranty typically will not cover damage from thermal shock, improper use, nonstick deterioration, damage from metal/sharp utensils, or damage caused by abrasive cleaners and scouring pads. Be sure to double-check the warranty provided by the vendor to ensure it is to your satisfaction.
