Bon Appétit food director Chris Morocco emphasizes that a high-quality stainless-steel skillet is reliable for various cooking tasks such as sautéing, stir-frying, and braising. These pans are ideal for searing meats and making omelets, sauces, and even caramel. Unlike nonstick cookware, stainless-steel pans are compatible with induction cooktops, oven-safe, and can withstand high heat and metal utensils.
### Recommended Choices
The leading stainless-steel pan is the All-Clad D3 Frying Pan, which is highly praised for its durability. For budget-conscious buyers, the Goldilocks Skillet provides an affordable option without sacrificing quality.
Morocco mentions that investing in high-quality pans is worthwhile for their longevity, noting that he has used his current pan for a decade with impressive durability. The article also includes options from All-Clad's heavier D5 line and Heritage Steel’s collaboration with Eater, which exceeded expectations.
### All-Clad D3 Frying Pan
The All-Clad D3 Frying Pan is lightweight, built to last, and available in sizes of 10", 12", and 14", with weights ranging from 3.5 lb. to 5.5 lb. The pan is oven-safe up to 600°F and is favored among professional chefs and recipe developers for its consistent performance, even heat distribution, and resistance to warping.
The D3 line features a 3-ply construction with an aluminum core, ensuring even heating while being easy to handle. Hand-washing is recommended to maintain the pan’s quality over time.
### Goldilocks Skillet
The Goldilocks Skillet is a budget-friendly option weighing 2.5 lb. for the 10" version and 3.3 lb. for the 12". It is oven-safe up to 550°F, and while it excels in design and performance, it may discolor over time and can scorch more easily compared to higher-end models.
### Testing Methodology
To evaluate these pans, tests included examining heat distribution with flour, caramelizing onions, cooking skin-on chicken thighs, creating pan sauces, and assessing ease of cleaning. The tests highlighted factors such as heat consistency, usability, and construction durability.
### Additional Recommendations
Other noteworthy pans include the Heritage Steel x Eater series, All-Clad D5 line, and Made In's stainless-steel frying pan, which all display excellent construction and heat distribution. While the Fissler 5-ply pan is sturdy, its higher price and weight may deter some buyers.
Conversely, certain models such as the Oxo and Caraway were found to be less effective due to poor weight balance and slow temperature response.
Wilder Davies, who has six years of experience testing cookware, provides insights into various pans, ensuring that buyers can make informed choices for their kitchens.
