A good non-stick skillet can be real life-saver at times. If you particularly hate doing the dishes, you should fill up your kitchen cabinet with non-stick pans and pots.
Non-stick skillets are not only easy to clean, but adhesive food items like cheese, eggs, pancake batter, etc. do not get stuck. Otherwise, who likes to have crusty, burned cheese in their omelet early in the morning? Such a bummer!
It is convenient to use and they come in a range of sizes. However, a 12-inch skillet is a perfect midway or the “good compromise” to tackle everyday cooking for all kinds of food preparation.
Not only are they great for preparing your eggs and bacon, but they are also the perfect size for stir-fried dishes, sauteing, searing, grilling, etc.
If you want the best 12-inch non stick frying pan for yourself, this article will help you walk through all that you need to know about non-stick skillets and even give you some friendly suggestions on our top 5 picks!
List Of Top 12-inch Non-stick Frying Pan
- KitchenAid 3-Ply Nonstick Fry Skillet
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
- Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan
- Carote 12-Inch Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet
- OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro
- Tramontina Professional Fry Pans
- T-fal Cookware Fry Pan
- MICHELANGELO Frying Pan
- OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Black Frying Pan
- T-fal E93808 Professional Nonstick Fry Pan
Comparison Chart For 12-inch Non-stick Frying Pan
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | Oven Safe (°F) | Weight (pounds) | Special Feature | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  |
KitchenAid 3-Ply Nonstick Fry Skillet | 500 | 3.54 | 3-layer base | |
  |
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet | 500 | 8 | silicone grip | |
  |
Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan | – | 3.3 | tri-rivet | |
  |
Carote 12-Inch Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet | – | 2.68 | basklite handle | |
  |
OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro | 430 | 2.47 | rolled edges | |
  |
Tramontina Professional Fry Pans | 400 | 3.85 | heavy-gauge aluminum | |
  |
T-fal Cookware Fry Pan | 350 | 4.4 | T-ring heat indicator | |
  |
MICHELANGELO Frying Pan | 450 | 2.23 | ceramic coating | |
  |
OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Black Frying Pan | 390 | 2.49 | 3-layer base | |
  |
T-fal E93808 Professional Nonstick Fry Pan | 400 | 2.3 | T-ring heat indicator |
Best 12-inch Non-stick Frying Pan Reviews
1. KitchenAid 3-Ply Nonstick Fry Skillet
The ultimate feature of this cookware is that it is made with the technology of a free PFOA nonstick interior. It ensures proper cooking and a healthier choice of skillet. You do not need to worry about any harmful material used in its manufacture.
A heat-conducting layer of aluminum is sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel which aids in spreading heat evenly from all edges. Uneven heat distribution can lead to the preparation of raw food which can cause bacterial diseases.
The 12-in nonstick skillet can induce heat up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, your food can be prepared on different types of cooking mediums like stove, oven, or open fire.
The PFOA-free nonstick skillet is excellent in providing efficient food release and is comfortable to wash and clean. The layers of the skillet also ensure durability as they are less likely to experience wear and tear.
The KitchenAid 3-Ply Nonstick Fry Skillet is exceptional because its unique shape allows you to cook a range of recipes. From stir-fry meals to searing fish fillets, you can create some amazing combinations, regardless of simple or complex the process is.
Highlighted Features
- The skillet is triple-layered for edge-to-edge heat distribution.
- The skillet has a thicker base for proper heat distribution.
- The pan is made from durable material to withstand everyday cooking.
- It is dishwasher safe, eliminating the hassle of manual clean-up.
2. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is the type of 12” non-stick skillet that has revolutionized the way people look at cast-iron skillets.
The pre-seasoning is done with all-natural vegetable oil during manufacturing. They are ready to be used right out of the box. However, you should light season it yourself with some vegetable oil after every wash to maintain its non-stick properties.
Speaking of which, adhesive food items like, eggs, cheese, pancake batter, etc. are saved from unfortunate scorching or burning because the skillet’s easy-release features allow you to flip over your food without too much struggle.
The significant feature of this iron skillet is that it comes with a silicone handle. It is designed to withstand up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is dishwasher friendly. It protects the cook and is safe to protect from heat induction.
The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet exhibits durability and versatility among your cookware so you can even use it to pass around as an heirloom. The strong build attributes to its longevity and you can use it for decades to come.
Highlighted Features
- It is featured with an assist silicone handle for better grip and safety.
- The cast iron skillet is compatible with different cooking mediums.
- The skillet comes pre-seasoned with pure vegetable oil.
- This skillet can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan- Best 12” Non Stick Frying Pan
If you’re worried about toxic substances seeping into your food from your frying pans, then look no further than the Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan.
Its composition is absolutely free of commonly-used toxic materials, giving you the peace of mind you need.
The non-harmful materials used don’t hamper the non-stick performance of the pan at all. Fry the most difficult food items with the ease and convenience that you come to expect from a good frying pan.
One of the features that was conceived with the customer in mind is the use of heavy-gauge aluminum along with a magnetized base. This allows the pan to heat up significantly quicker than other traditional pans so you can save time while you are preparing your favorite meals.
If tossing seems like a risk on your standard double-rivet pan, The Ozeri Stone remedies will put your woes to rest as it has a unique triple-riveted system that allows the pan to have a sturdier structure even when exposed to the most turbulent of motions.
The Ozeri Stone Frying Pan is a product borne out of the insights of the cooking aficionados who want the most convenient features while also avoiding the most controversial toxic materials that most frying pans are made of. It is the perfect addition to any kitchen.
Highlighted Features
- It comes in 7 different color options.
- There are 2 other size options.
- The handle is triple riveted.
- It is made completely toxin-free.
4. Carote 12-Inch Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet
The Carote 12-Inch Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet is a unique 12” frying pan non-stick. Made from natural stone material, the skillet features a rustic stone cooking ware appearance that goes with any kitchen aesthetics.
The natural and eco-friendly granite coating is the best feature of this iron skillet. Teflon coatings usually have PFOA which may break apart and contaminate your food at high temperatures. Thus, this is your safest bet.
Morning breakfasts will be a breeze to cook, thanks to their high induction capacity. Food will cook faster without compromising on the quality of it. It ensures that heat reaches every part of the pan and gives an even sear to the contents on it.
The handle material is made from a material known as bakelite that provides a comfortable and stable grip. Bakelite is a special type of plastic that remains cool even when the skillet is heated which makes it safer and easier to use.
Some people do not have traditional stove cooktops. Induction cooktops are now very popular but not all skillets work in harmony with induction. The Carote 12-Inch Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet is, therefore, a rare find.
Highlighted Features
- The graphite coating works better than traditional coatings.
- The skillet is designed to look like natural stone cooking ware.
- The ergonomic Bakelite handle is safe to use as it remains cool.
- It is suitable for all types of cooking mediums be it oven, stove, or grill.
5. OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro
The Oxo Good Grips Non-stick Pro lives up to the “pro” moniker by combining precision engineering along with durability and convenience to make it any master chef’s primary choice.
We have all dealt with scratches on our pans after prolonged use and although it is a kitchen tool, a scratch-free surface always lends to the aesthetic appeal of a meticulously-designed kitchen. The hard-anodized construction of the pan is scratch-resistant, so it retains its looks for longer periods.
A chef’s cooking must always match their presentation. This is why pouring and serving from pans is a criminally underrated skill. For the ones who are not accustomed to performing such a herculean feat, the Oxo features rolled edges to allow for easier plating.
After your food is plated, it is time for cleaning, and every chef worth their salt has faced the trial of cleaning a non-stick pan. Thankfully, the pan has a 3-layer coating that prevents the buildup of gunk in the body of the pan allowing for easy cleaning.
Favored by professionals and weekend cooks alike, the OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro is a well-rounded frying pan that will make short work of any cooking challenge you throw at it.
Highlighted Features
- The edges are rolled to prevent dripping.
- The skillet is resistant to scratches.
- It promotes healthy cooking since less oil is used.
- The construction consists of 3 layers.
What Types Of Non-Stick Frying Pans Are There?
Material-wise, there are 4 main types of nonstick frying pans.
1. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Coated Frying Pans
True nonstick frying pans come with an interior coating like PTFE or Teflon that prevents ingredients from sticking. Usually, you would want to cook the food with it at low to medium heat adding a little oil. As you can cook low-fat food in such frying pans, it makes an ideal choice for weight management.
Nonstick frying pans can be excellent for cooking omelets, fish, crepes and pancakes. They are lightweight and tend to heat fast.
2. Seasoned Cast Iron Frying Pans
Seasoned cast Iron frying pans are naturally nonstick. Once you season them properly, the jagged and pitted cooking area becomes smooth and forms a nonstick coating.
They are quite heavyweight since the material is thick. You will find them ideal for stir-frying, pan-frying chicken, baking, braising, long-cooking and cooking eggs.
Such cookware may heat up slower than aluminum, however, they are incredible at withstanding very high heat. Not only that, the pans distribute the temperature evenly and retain it for prolonged period.
3. Ceramic Frying Pans
Ceramic frying pans are coated with silica gel that’s made of ceramic stone or sand. That’s what makes the pans nonstick.
They are lightweight and perform great at low to medium heat. You can cook different types of foods including quesadillas, eggs, and fish using them.
4. Hard-Anodized Frying Pans
Hard-anodized frying pans use treated aluminum that goes through a chemical process so it oxidizes the cooking surface making it tougher and nonstick.
Such pans can handle high temperature without getting damaged. They are excellent to be used for braising and deep-frying especially. You may find them a bit heavy.
12-inch Non-stick Frying Pan Buying Guide
Coating
The first thing to keep in mind when shopping for a non-stick skillet is the coating.
There are a variety of coatings available to the mass, the most popular being Teflon, or PTFE. Teflon is a water-repellant coating that lasts longer than most traditional coatings.
Teflon tends to break apart, peel off and release toxins in the form of PTFE into the food due to extreme temperature levels. This could be detrimental to your health. When opting for Teflon coatings, make sure that you are not exceeding the temperature limits.
On the other hand, there are ceramic coatings. They are safer compared to Teflon coatings but they do not last as long. Regardless, both the coatings are proficient at keeping your food from getting stuck to the sides, or the base.
Be very careful to not scratch the coating in any way. Otherwise, it defeats the whole purpose of the non-stick skillet!
Lid
Purchasing a skillet of any type without a lid can be an inconvenience. Some skillets come without a lid for a slash in price. While they are affordable, you also have to hunt down a lid of a similar size to the skillet.
That does not seem like too many savings at all. It is
Now, as you are searching for a suitable lid for your non-stick frying pan, you will come across two types of lids that are available in the market. One is a tempered glass lid; another is a clear glass lid.
Tempered glass lids can be the perfect fit for your iron cast skillet. The lid features a stainless steel rim and a silicone nob that enables you to use it in the oven to withstand heat.
The lid can lock the flavors in the pan as well as provide you visibility of the contents. The sturdy glass does not break easily and can withstand high thermal pressure so it provides durability.
On the other hand, the glass lids are better insulators than tempered glass lids to trap the heat. However, they are designed with a steam vent that tends to nullify this advantage.
Material
There are usually two popular types of material used to design non-stick skillets – aluminum and stainless steel.
Stainless steel retains heat well. They provide a more even distribution of temperature and cooks the food thoroughly. However, they are usually more lenient towards the heavier side and most users do not prefer that.
Aluminum pans are lighter and easier to handle. The skillet base of said material also provides uniform heating but cannot be used atop induction cookers. If you don’t have an induction cooktop to worry about, this could be a cost-effective option to consider.
FAQ
10-Inch Or 12-Inch Pan, Which Is Better?
It absolutely depends on your requirements. However, if you are planning to buy a single pan, we would recommend getting a 12-inch one. It’s because you can prepare larger batches unlike the 10-inch pan that can get easily overcrowded and messy in that case. Even if you want to cook less food, you can still use the big pan. It’s great for daily cooking as well as for special occasions.
Is A 12-Inch Pan Big Enough?
Yes, it’s big enough to cook a big batch of meal for 4 to 6 people or more depending on how much they can consume. The 12-inch pan can fit 4 to 6 eggs or 3 to 4 chicken breasts with ease. You can make a big pan pizza or galette with it.
What Are The Best 12 Inch Pans To Buy?
Cookwares like KitchenAid 3-Ply Skillet, Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan, Carote Skillet and OXO Good Grips Pro Frying Pan are some of the best 12-inch options you can consider buying.
They may have their own special features that make them unique from one another but their basic traits are quite similar. Each of the frying pans is stick-resistant, scratch-resistant and free of toxic chemicals like PFOA.
These make sure the heat reaches every part of the body so they can make your meal well-cooked and succulent.
Conclusion
The best 12-inch non stick frying pan must have some dire requirements checked off under its belt. These include having the proper non-stick coating, appropriate sidewalls, and a durable base for uniform heat distribution.
Now that you know all the things you need to keep in mind before purchasing a great 12-inch nonstick skillet, we are sure that you will find the perfect match for you through our suggestions as well!
Of course, you can have a collection of these in your cabinet to be used for various purposes. We hope that this always keeps you motivated to cook healthier recipes without thinking of clean-up too much.
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