7 Best Nonstick Frying Pans of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We seared, flipped and scrambled to find our favorite nonstick pans.

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Updated on February 23, 2024

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Our Top Nonstick Pan Picks

Tested by Stevie Stewart

When most people think of nonstick pans, their thoughts are not usually positive: chemicals, one-trick pony (read: eggs) and a throwaway tool. But did you know that most nonstick pans are oven safe? Some can even go under the broiler! And for those afraid of chemicals, we’re here to tell you that most nonstick pans no longer contain Polytetrafluoroethylene (PFOA), better known as "Teflon." We tested a variety of pans to find our favorites, and whether you’re making pancakes for the kids or whipping up a weeknight dinner, we found a pan for you.

Nonstick Pan Test Pancakes

Photo by: Photo by Stevie Stewart

Photo by Stevie Stewart

How We Tested

After careful research from reputable consumer buying guides, we purchased 15 10-inch non-stick frying pans. We put these pans through rigorous tests. To get started, we noted how each was packaged and what kind of literature was included, and then we took down general information like weight and dimensions. We then used an infrared thermometer to test the heat distribution of each pan. From there we cooked a variety of items to check the form and function.

We seared skin-on fish fillets to test the slickness of the surface and how well it crisped. For pancakes we tested how evenly the pans cooked, how smoothly the food moved in the pan, and how easy it was to flip and maneuver within the pan. In pans that were ovensafe, we baked frittatas to record how evenly the pans cooked in the oven, how comfortable the pans felt while handling and how smoothly the frittatas slid out of the pans.

Throughout this process we recorded how much food stuck to the pan (if any) and how easily it was to clean the pan with just a dry towel or with soap and water. We considered pricing, performance and design when picking our favorites.

What We Like
  1. Oven safe up to 500 degrees F
  2. Suitable for all stove types
What We Don't Like
  1. Can be pricey

The Made In pan outperformed all pans we previously tested when it came to consistent cooking and nonstick slickness. It not only cooked perfect, evenly brown pancakes; fish and frittatas came out of the pan without any added effort and left barely a crumb behind to clean. The pan is PFOA-free, oven safe up to 500 degrees F and, unlike our original top choice, is suitable for all stove tops including induction. The company also works with top chefs to help design their pans for both form and function. Overall, a beautiful pan that performs like a dream!

  1. Sizes Available 8-, 10- and 12-inch
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 2.5 pounds
  3. Material Stainless steel exterior, FDA-approved nonstick coating
  4. Dishwasher Safe No
  5. Oven Safe Up to 500 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible Yes
What We Like
  1. Extremely nonstick surface
  2. Nonslip grip handle
What We Don't Like
  1. Not induction compatible

The Anolon pan is our original best overall and is still a top pick, considering it cooks well and has a bit of a lower price tag than the Made In pan. This pan cooked perfectly golden-brown pancakes, fluffy frittatas and fish without leaving any skin behind. Plus, it’s also a cinch to clean — sometimes even with just a dry towel.

The pan is PFOA-free, metal utensil safe, ovensafe and suitable for all stovetops (except induction). With a rubber handle that feels secure in-hand and sloped sides just like the expensive brands, flipping and turning food is effortless. Finally, the sleek, clean design would complement any kitchen collection.

  1. Sizes Available 8.5-, 10.25- and 12.75-inches
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 1.5 pounds
  3. Material Hard anodized aluminum, Infinite Slide nonstick coating
  4. Dishwasher Safe No
  5. Oven Safe Up to 400 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible No
What We Like
  1. Can be used over higher heat than other pans
  2. Made in the USA
What We Don't Like
  1. Heavy for some

Want a super reliable pan that won’t let you fail, but also won’t break the bank? This pan won’t be ruined if you use it over high heat, allowing the beginner cook a bit more room for error. The handle has a safety net, too, with a gap near the pan to make sure your hands remain burn-free. And this made-in-the-USA pan not only cooks like pans twice its price, but it looks that way as well. No need to sacrifice form over function while you hone your skills in the kitchen.

  1. Sizes Available 10 inches
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 2.6 pounds
  3. Material Hard anodized aluminum, textured nonstick surface
  4. Dishwasher Safe Yes
  5. Oven Safe Up to 500 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible No
What We Like
  1. Extra-long handle
  2. Heavy-duty design mimics restaurant pans
  3. Budget-friendly
What We Don't Like
  1. Heavy for some

The Tramontina Professional series are utilitarian style pans that look like those you would find in a professional kitchen. With a heavier weight and a heavy-duty, long handle, this pan feels like it could handle the rigors of a restaurant without being out of place in your home.

Even with the super low price, this pan is PFOA-free, dishwasher safe and ovensafe, and it's compatible with gas, electric and ceramic glass cooktops. As an extra bonus, it is made in the USA and comes with a silicone handle guard that allows you a burn-free, secure grip.

  1. Sizes Available 8, 10, 12 and 14 inches
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 2.64 pounds
  3. Material Heavy-gauge aluminum exterior, nonstick surface
  4. Dishwasher Safe Yes
  5. Oven Safe Up to 400 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible No
What We Like
  1. Nontoxic ceramic surface
  2. Compatible with all cooktops
What We Don't Like
  1. Heavy for some

GreenPan is one of the original pioneers of ceramic cookware and the latest line of hard anodized pots and pans does not disappoint. The GP5 Infinite8 frypan contains the brand's most durable nonstick surface to date, which GreenPan claims is even safe to use with metal utensils (although, we don't recommend that). Its surface contains a ceramic nonstick coating requires no toxic chemicals to produce and won't release fumes when heated, according to the company. We found the pan produced crispy skin on salmon filets, evenly browned pancakes and a well-cooked frittata that easily slid out of the pan with no additional oil. We also loved the pans durable feel and heavier weight, which makes it a great workhorse in the kitchen. Plus, unlike some other nonstick pans, this one is induction compatible.

  1. Sizes Available 8, 10 and 12 inches; 2-piece set
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 2.75 pounds
  3. Material Hard anodized aluminum, Infinite8 nonstick coating
  4. Dishwasher Safe Yes
  5. Oven Safe Up to 600 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible Yes
What We Like
  1. Oven safe up to 500 degrees F
  2. Extremely nonstick surface
  3. Ergonomic handle
What We Don't Like
  1. Heavy for some
  2. Pricey

Consistent with Le Creuset's famous aesthetics, this pan is our favorite to look at. It has a smooth, all-black pan with a shiny, stainless steel handle complete with Le Creuset’s insignia at the base. The handle is ergonomic and hollow to keep it from taking on too much heat. It's PFOA-free and dishwasher safe, broiler safe and ovensafe (up to 500 degrees F). It provides consistent and even cooking and has a smooth and easy-to-clean surface; the only thing you might think twice about is the price tag.

  1. Sizes Available 8, 9.5, 10, 11 and 12 inches
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 2.31 pounds
  3. Material Hard anodized aluminum, nonstick surface
  4. Dishwasher Safe Yes
  5. Oven Safe Up to 500 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible Yes
What We Like
  1. Most even heat distribution
  2. Oven safe up to 500 degrees F
  3. Chef-grade design
What We Don't Like
  1. Expensive
  2. Heavy for some

This pan has it all: the most even heat distribution, the ability to cook over high heat and induction-compatibility. Plus, it’s oven safe, dishwasher safe and metal utensil safe. Not too shabby — but it comes at a price. The most-expensive of the lot, this pan is made for those that want to cook like the pros.

The pan doesn't skimp on looks either; it has a super sleek design with a shiny silver outside and handle with a smooth black, inner surface. As an added bonus, this pan is also made in the USA.

  1. Sizes Available 8, 10 and 12 inches
  2. 10-Inch Pan Weight 3.2 pounds
  3. Material Stainless steel exterior, nonstick coating
  4. Dishwasher Safe Yes
  5. Oven Safe Up to 500 degrees F
  6. Induction Compatible Yes
Nonstick Pan Test

Photo by: Photo by Stevie Stewart

Photo by Stevie Stewart

FAQs

Are Nonstick Pans Safe?

Nonstick cookware was introduced to the market in the 1940s when companies started using chemicals known as perfluoroalky and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to create cookware with a slippery, nonstick surface. Teflon is the nonstick surface most consumers are familiar with, and since 2006, many known toxins have been phased out of the manufacturing process including PFOA and PFOS. Most non-stick cookware sold in the United States today is PFOA- and PFOS-free — as are all of our top picks above. If you own non-stick cookware that pre-dates 2006, its worth replacing it.

If you're still concerned about chemicals in your cookware, we recommend opting for a nonstick pan with a nontoxic coating like ceramic like the GreenPan GP5. Keep in mind, ceramic nonstick coatings aren't quite as slippery as others, but we found our top pick performed all the tasks well without much trouble.

How Long Do Nonstick Pans Last?

The longevity of nonstick pans is dependent on how often you use them and how you use and care for them (see tips below). Nonstick pans can last for years assuming you use them over the proper heat, avoid metal utensils and hand wash them. If you start to see scratches, discoloration or damage to your nonstick pan, it's time for a replacement.

Are Nonstick Pans Oven Safe?

Many of our nonstick pans are oven safe up to 500 degrees F, however, we always recommend reviewing the user manual and manufacturer's instructions before. Never use a nonstick pan under the broiler.

What To Know About Using Nonstick Pans Safely

If you follow a few specific rules, your pan will last for years.

  • Never use nonstick cooking spray. These sprays are not compatible with non-stick pans and create a buildup on the surface of the pan that, over time, is impossible to remove. If you need to use fat, use a minimal amount of butter or oil.
  • Skip the dishwasher. Even if a brand says its pan is dishwasher-safe, stick to hand-washing. The harsh soaps and high temperature and pressure of dishwashers can dull and damage the coating of the pan that is essential to maintaining its nonstick magic.
  • Don’t use over high heat on the stove. There are a few pans that you can use over high heat, but, in general, low to medium low heat is recommended for nonstick pans. This is not only to keep them functioning properly, but also to keep them from releasing any harmful odors or chemicals.
  • Never heat an empty pan. This can release that awful odor that can be dangerous, and the high heat may be damaging to the pan.
Best Nonstick Frying Pans
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Nonstick pans are a kitchen essential. Sarah Holden, culinary producer for Food Network Kitchen, walks you through three of our top picks, above.

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