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Skillets & Frying Pans

Skillets and frying pans are everyday cookware essentials for frying, searing, sautéing, browning and cooking a wide range of meals. From quick breakfasts and stir-fries to steaks, vegetables and one-pan dinners, the right pan can make cooking easier and more consistent. Explore non-stick, stainless steel, cast iron and carbon steel frying pans in a range of sizes to suit different cooktops and cooking styles.

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Tefal by Jamie Oliver Ceramic Enjoy Shallow Pan 30cm with Pan Protector

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Tefal by Jamie Oliver Ceramic Enjoy Set of 2 Frying Pans with Pan Protector

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What to Consider Before Buying Skillets & Frying Pans

Material: Non-stick pans are easy to use and clean, stainless steel is durable and versatile, cast iron retains heat well, and carbon steel is lightweight and responsive.
Size: Smaller pans are useful for eggs and individual portions, while larger frying pans are better for family meals and one-pan cooking.
Cooktop compatibility: Check whether the pan is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic or induction cooktops.
Non-stick coating: A quality non-stick surface helps reduce sticking and may require less oil, but it should be used with suitable utensils to avoid damage.
Handle: Look for a secure, comfortable handle that stays cool during normal stovetop use.
Oven safety: Some frying pans can be transferred from the stovetop to the oven, but the maximum temperature may depend on the handle and coating.
Weight: Cast iron pans are heavier but retain heat well, while aluminium and carbon steel pans are generally easier to lift and manoeuvre.
Depth: A deeper skillet is useful for sauces, sautéing and one-pan meals, while a shallow frying pan is ideal for searing and quick cooking.
Lid: A fitted lid can be useful for simmering, steaming and keeping food warm.
Cleaning: Check whether the pan is dishwasher safe or requires hand washing and seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a skillet and a frying pan?

The terms skillet and frying pan are often used interchangeably. A skillet may have slightly higher or more sloped sides, while a frying pan is generally shallow with a wide cooking surface.

What is the best material for a frying pan?

The best material depends on how you cook. Non-stick pans are ideal for eggs and delicate foods, stainless steel is useful for browning and searing, cast iron retains heat well, and carbon steel offers many of the benefits of cast iron with less weight.

What size frying pan should I buy?

A 20 cm pan is suitable for small portions, a 24 to 26 cm pan works well for everyday cooking, and a 28 to 30 cm pan is better for larger meals and families.

Can frying pans be used on induction cooktops?

Only frying pans with a magnetic base are suitable for induction cooktops. Cast iron and many stainless steel pans are induction compatible, while some aluminium pans require a specially designed base.

Can skillets and frying pans go in the oven?

Many stainless steel, cast iron and carbon steel pans are oven safe. Non-stick pans may also be oven safe to a limited temperature. Always check the manufacturer's instructions, especially if the pan has a plastic, timber or silicone handle.

Are non-stick frying pans safe?

Modern non-stick frying pans are designed for normal cooking use. Avoid overheating an empty pan, use low to medium heat where recommended, and replace the pan if the coating becomes badly scratched or damaged.

Can I use metal utensils in a frying pan?

Metal utensils are generally suitable for stainless steel and cast iron pans, but they may scratch non-stick coatings. Silicone, timber or nylon utensils are usually safer for coated pans.

Why does food stick to my stainless steel frying pan?

Food may stick if the pan is not properly preheated or if too little oil is used. Allow the pan to heat gradually, add oil, and let the food form a crust before trying to turn it.

Do cast iron skillets need seasoning?

Traditional cast iron skillets need seasoning to create a protective cooking surface and help prevent rust. Enamelled cast iron pans do not usually require seasoning.

Can frying pans go in the dishwasher?

Some frying pans are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is often recommended for non-stick, cast iron and carbon steel pans. Dishwasher detergents can damage coatings, remove seasoning or affect the pan's finish.