Best 12-inch Skillets to Buy

Are you in search of the perfect 12-inch skillet that combines both functionality and quality? Look no further! In this guide, we will explore the world of cookware and present to you the best 12-inch skillets available on the market today. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, having a reliable and versatile skillet in your kitchen is a must. From searing steaks to sautéing vegetables, these skillets have been carefully selected based on their exceptional performance, durability, and customer reviews. Join us as we delve into the top-rated options, helping you make an informed decision on the best 12-inch skillets to buy.

Choosing the ideal skillet

Material

The material of the skillet is an important consideration when making your purchase. Cast iron, stainless steel, and nonstick are all popular options. Cast iron skillets are durable and distribute heat evenly, making them an excellent choice for searing meats. Stainless steel skillets offer a lightweight design and effortless cleaning, making them an excellent option for everyday cooking. Nonstick skillets are perfect for cooking eggs and other delicate items, as they prevent sticking.

Handle

When considering a skillet, make sure to look at the handle. A comfortable, sturdy handle is essential, as it can impact the skillet’s overall experience. Look for handles that are heat-resistant and easy to grip.

Shape

Skillets come in various shapes, including round, square, and rectangular. The size and shape of the skillet can affect both the cooking capacity and its suitability for your stove. Round skillets are the most popular and versatile choice, while square and rectangular skillets can be ideal for cooking larger items, such as whole fish or chicken.

Size

When selecting a skillet, size is an important consideration to take into account. Skillets are available in various sizes, ranging from small individual pans to large family-sized ones. It’s important to consider the amount of food you’ll be cooking and the size of your stovetop when selecting a skillet.

Price

Skillets come at a range of price points, and it’s important to keep in mind your budget when making your purchase. While high-end skillets can be an investment, they often come with features that make cooking more comfortable, such as ergonomic handles and superior heat distribution.

Now that you’re aware of what to consider when buying a 12-inch skillet, let’s take a look at some of the best choices currently available.

10# GreenPan Lima Hard Anodized Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 12″ Frying Pan Skillet with Lid

Anyone searching for a premium skillet that is hygienic, robust, and adaptable should consider the GreenPan Ceramic Nonstick Frypan. This skillet is a great option for electric stovetops since it combines ceramic, ceramic/PFAS-free nonstick, aluminum, and stainless steel.

This skillet’s healthy Thermolon ceramic nonstick coating, which is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, is one of its greatest features. This guarantees that even if it is accidentally overheated, it will never discharge harmful vapors. The sturdy, hard-anodized body of this skillet is built to withstand regular use and is scratch-resistant, so it will last for many years.

The GreenPan Ceramic Nonstick Frypan is a flexible alternative for a variety of cooking styles because it is safe on broiler and oven up to 600°F. The tough glass lid, which is oven safe up to 425°F, makes it simple to observe the meal. It is simple to carry the skillet from the stovetop to the oven or serving table thanks to the riveted stainless steel handle’s curved design for a relaxed and comfortable grip.

With a 5-quart capacity, this 12-inch skillet is great for large dinners and families. The skillet is not appropriate for induction stovetops; it is vital to remember. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that this skillet needs to be washed by hand, which could be inconvenient for individuals who prefer cookware that can be safely cleaned in a dishwasher.

Pros:

Healthy nonstick surface: With a ceramic nonstick coating that is free from PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium, this skillet offers a healthier choice for your cooking needs.

1. Durable: The hard-anodized aluminum construction is durable and resists scratches and other damage.
2. Heat distribution: The use of aluminum in its construction ensures that heat is evenly distributed across the surface of the pan, promoting consistent cooking results.
3. Comfortable handle: Designed with user comfort in mind, the handle of this skillet offers a secure and comfortable grip, facilitating easy handling and maneuverability.
4. Oven safe: This skillet is oven safe up to 600°F (315°C).
5. Comes with a lid: The included lid can help to keep food warm and prevent splatters while cooking.

Cons:

1. The nonstick surface may wear off over time: The nonstick surface on this skillet may wear off over time with regular use and may need to be replaced eventually.

09# OXO Good Grips Pro 12″ Frying Pan Skillet

The OXO Hard Anodized Nonstick Aluminum and Stainless Steel 4-Quart Skillet is an exceptional piece of cookware that has been awarded the highest rating by Cook’s Illustrated. This skillet is made of durable hard-anodized nonstick aluminum and stainless steel, which delivers excellent heat conduction and scratch resistance. The skillet is designed with a three-layer, German-engineered nonstick coating that ensures years of performance while using less oil, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious cooks.

The skillet also features comfortable stainless steel handles that are securely attached with stainless steel rivets. This makes it easy to move the skillet from the stovetop to the oven, as it is oven safe up to 430°F/220°C. The rolled edges of the skillet make for drip-free pouring, ensuring that your cooking experience is hassle-free.

One of the coolest things about this skillet is its compatibility with most stovetops, making it a versatile option for any kitchen. However, it is not compatible with induction stovetops. The skillet is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Pros:

1. Durable: The stainless steel build is durable and resists scratches and other damage.
2. Heat distribution: The tri-ply construction (stainless steel/aluminum/stainless steel) provides even heat distribution across the surface of the pan.
3. Compatible with all cooktops: This skillet is compatible with all cooktops, including induction.
4. Comfortable handle: The handle of this skillet is designed to provide a comfortable grip, making it easy to hold and move around.
5. Oven safe: This skillet is oven safe up to 430°F (220°C).
6. Dishwasher safe: This skillet is safe to wash in the dishwasher, which can make cleanup quick and easy.

Cons:

1. Not nonstick: This skillet does not have a nonstick surface, which may make it more difficult to cook certain foods.
2. Price: This skillet may be more expensive than some other nonstick skillet options on the market.

08# Circulon Radiance Deep Hard Anodized Nonstick Frying Pan /Skillet

The Circulon Radiance deep fry pan is a durable and versatile cookware option that is perfect for those who demand high-quality and long-lasting kitchen equipment. The pan features hard-anodized aluminum construction, which provides excellent heat distribution and ensures that there are no hot spots.

One of the key features of this fry pan is its premium nonstick surface. The TOTAL Nonstick System is made up of raised circles and a high-quality nonstick coating, which allows for easy food release and trouble-free cleanup. In fact, the nonstick performance of this fry pan lasts up to ten times longer than other nonstick pans.

The Circulon Radiance deep fry pan is also dishwasher safe, which makes it easy to clean and maintain. The deep frying pan is designed with a sturdy, dual-riveted stainless steel handle that is comfortable to grip and remains cool to the touch during cooking. Additionally, the pan comes with a shatter-resistant glass lid, which allows for easy monitoring of the cooking process.

This deep frying pan has a 3-quart capacity, making it perfect for cooking larger meals. This skillet is suitable for use on gas stovetops, and it can be safely placed in the oven at temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Its versatility makes it a great choice for various recipes that require transitioning from the stovetop to the oven.

Pros:

1. Nonstick surface: This skillet features a nonstick surface that makes it easy to cook with and clean up.
2. Deep sides: Thanks to its deep sides, this skillet is highly versatile and well-suited for cooking an array of dishes, such as stews, casseroles, and sautéed vegetables.
3. Comfortable handle: Designed with user comfort in mind, the handle of this skillet offers a secure and comfortable grip, facilitating easy handling and maneuverability.
4. Oven safe: This skillet is oven safe up to 400°F (204°C).

Cons:

1. Limited size options: This skillet is only available in a 12″ size, which may not be suitable for all users.

07# OXO Good Grips 12″ Frying Pan Skillet

If you’re looking for a high-quality nonstick skillet, the OXO 12-inch skillet is a great option. Rated as the top nonstick skillet by America’s Test Kitchen, this skillet is made from durable hard-anodized aluminum that provides excellent heat conduction and scratch resistance. Plus, its three-layer, German-engineered nonstick coating means you can cook with less oil for healthier meals.

In addition to its excellent cooking performance, the OXO skillet also features a sturdy stainless steel handle that’s coated with non-slip silicone for a comfortable, secure grip. And with its oven-safe design (up to 390°F/200°C), you can easily take your cooking from stovetop to oven.

It’s worth noting that while the OXO skillet is compatible with most stovetops, it’s not suitable for use on induction cooktops. And, because of its high-quality construction, it’s recommended to hand wash this skillet to ensure it lasts for years to come.

Pros:

1. Nonstick surface: With its nonstick surface, this skillet offers a user-friendly cooking experience and hassle-free cleanup.
2. Heat distribution: The use of aluminum in its construction ensures that heat is evenly distributed across the surface of the pan, promoting consistent cooking results.
3. Comfortable handle: The handle of this skillet is designed with a soft, non-slip grip, ensuring a comfortable and secure hold while maneuvering the skillet.
4. Oven safe: This skillet is oven safe up to 390°F (200°C).

Cons:

1. Not suitable for high-heat cooking: This skillet is not suitable for high-heat cooking methods like searing and browning.
2. Limited size options: This skillet is only available in a 12″ size, which may not be suitable for all users.

06# Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet, Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron Frying Pan with Long Handle.

Victoria’s cast iron skillet is a versatile and durable addition to any kitchen. With a 12-inch size and 7.5-pound capacity, it’s perfect for cooking up a variety of dishes. The skillet is compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops, making it a versatile choice for all types of cooking needs.

One of the standout features of this cast-iron skillet is its pre-seasoned surface. It’s been treated with non-GMO, kosher-certified flaxseed oil, which helps build seasoning with each use. The surface is PTFE- and PFOA-free, making it a healthier option for cooking.

Designed with the user in mind, this skillet features a thicker edge, drip-free spouts on each side, and Victoria’s signature long curved handle for a better grip. The deep vessel is perfect for sauces or larger food items, and the skillet’s natural materials help to infuse food with beneficial iron.

The remarkable characteristic of cast iron cookware is its exceptional ability to distribute and retain heat evenly, and this skillet is a prime example. Its versatility shines through as it can be utilized on the stove, in the oven, over a campfire, or on a grill, making it a flexible option for cooking in various settings.

Victoria has been manufacturing quality cast-iron cookware in their own factories in Colombia since 1939, never outsourcing. Their cast-iron products are made with resource-efficient materials, are economical, and will outlast traditional cookware, offering reliable cooking for years to come.

Pros:

1. Durable: Cast iron is extremely durable and can last for generations if cared for properly.
2. Nonstick surface: Over time, the seasoning on the cast iron surface builds up and creates a natural nonstick surface that makes it easy to cook with and clean up.
3. Heat retention: Cast iron skillets retain heat well, which means that they can sear and brown food effectively and keep food warm for longer periods of time.
4. Pre-seasoned: This skillet comes pre-seasoned, meaning that it has already been treated with oil to create a natural nonstick surface.
5. Long handle: The elongated handle of this skillet facilitates effortless maneuverability and offers a comfortable grip for added convenience.

Cons:

1. Heavy: Cast iron skillets are heavy, which can make them difficult to handle and maneuver, especially when filled with food.
2. Not dishwasher safe: Cast iron skillets should not be washed in the dishwasher, as the high heat and harsh detergents can damage the seasoning on the surface.

05# Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder, 12-inch

Lodge has been a trusted brand for generations when it comes to cast iron cookware. The Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is no exception and has unparalleled heat retention and even heating, which makes it the perfect tool for searing, sautéing, baking, broiling, braising, frying, or grilling your favorite dishes.

What makes this skillet stand out is its pre-seasoned surface. It has been treated with 100% natural vegetable oil, which means it’s ready to use right out of the box. Because it is constructed from cast iron, this skillet is suitable for use on the stove, in the oven, on the grill, and even over a campfire.

In addition, this skillet is compatible with induction stovetops, making it versatile for all types of cooking needs. In addition, it features an assist handle to enhance control, and the accompanying silicone handle holder is dishwasher safe, providing protection for hands against temperatures up to 500°F. The Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is an essential tool for every kitchen and a timeless addition to any collection of cookware.

Pros:

1. Durable: Cast iron is extremely durable and can last for generations if cared for properly.
2. Versatile: Cast iron skillets are compatible with a wide range of cooktop surfaces, including induction, and are suitable for use in the oven, on the grill, or over an open flame.
3. Heat retention: Cast iron skillets retain heat well, which means that they can sear and brown food effectively and keep food warm for longer periods of time.
4. Comes with silicone hot handle holder: The included silicone hot handle holder protects your hands from the hot cast iron handle during cooking.
5. Made in the USA: Lodge is a reputable American brand that produces high-quality cast iron cookware.

Cons:

1. Heavy: Cast iron skillets are heavy, which can make them difficult to handle and maneuver, especially when filled with food.
2. Requires seasoning: To keep the nonstick surface of cast iron skillets in good condition, regular seasoning is necessary. However, this process can be time-consuming and may involve some trial and error.

04# T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Skillet with Lid 12 Inch Cookware

The T-fal 12-inch hard anodized aluminum frying pan is a true workhorse in the kitchen. Its hard-anodized aluminum construction retains perfect heat and is corrosion and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for everyday use. Additionally, the pan won’t react to acidic foods, ensuring your meals taste their best.

T-fal’s heat mastery system is a three-ingredient recipe for perfectly delicious cooking results every time. The pan boasts a superior and longer-lasting nonstick coating, an anti-warping even heat base, and patented thermo spot technology. The ring around the spot turns solid red to show when the pan is perfectly preheated and ready for ingredients to be added. Proper preheating is key to sealing in flavor and cooking food evenly, and this pan makes it easy.

The durable nonstick interior is hard titanium-reinforced, scratch-resistant, and toxin-free. This skillet is designed to withstand daily use while ensuring effortless cooking and easy cleanup, thanks to its smooth surface that promotes smooth food movement. Additionally, the T-fal Thermo-Spot heat indicator, a distinctive feature, accurately signals the perfect preheating temperature, allowing you to seal in the delectable flavors of your food.

Riveted silicone handles are designed for comfort and safety, while the vented tempered glass lid maintains visibility and traps enough heat and moisture for perfect results every meal. This T-fal frying pan is also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

Pros:

1. Nonstick coating: This skillet features a durable, scratch-resistant nonstick coating that makes it easy to cook with and clean up.
2. Hard-anodized construction: The hard-anodized aluminum construction provides even heat distribution and makes the skillet highly durable and resistant to scratches and other damage.
3. Glass lid: The skillet is equipped with a tempered glass lid, enabling you to keep eye on your cooking without the need to lift the lid and release valuable heat.
4. Oven safe: You can safely use this skillet in the oven, and it can withstand temperatures up to 400°F.
5. Comfortable handles: The stainless steel handles are ergonomically designed and stay cool during stovetop use, making them comfortable to grip and maneuver.

Cons:

1. The handle can get hot: Due to the stainless steel handle, it is crucial to exercise caution and utilize oven mitts or a potholder when handling the skillet, as the handle can become hot during cooking.
2. Limited lifetime warranty: While T-fal offers a limited lifetime warranty on this skillet, some users have reported difficulty obtaining warranty coverage in practice.

03# Blue Diamond Cookware Diamond Infused Ceramic Nonstick 12″ Frying Pan Skillet

If you’re looking for a high-performance, durable skillet, the Blue Diamond 12-inch Diamond-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Skillet is definitely worth considering. This skillet is constructed with a unique combination of materials, including diamond-infused ceramic, aluminum, and ceramic, which make it both strong and long-lasting.

One of the key features of this skillet is Blue Diamond’s signature diamond-infused ceramic nonstick coating, which is 5x harder and 10x longer lasting than traditional nonstick coatings. This nonstick surface is also metal utensil safe, allowing you to use metal utensils without worrying about scratching or damaging the skillet.

In addition, the skillet’s diamond-infused construction allows it to heat up faster and clean up easier than traditional nonstick surfaces. Diamonds are four times more conductive than copper, so the Blue Diamond skillet delivers excellent heat conductivity, making it ideal for a variety of cooking tasks.

Another great feature of this skillet is its toxin-free construction. It is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, making it a safe and healthy option for your kitchen.

The skillet’s heavy-duty forged base prevents warping, wobbling, or degrading over time, ensuring that it maintains its high-performance quality for years to come. Additionally, the skillet is oven and broiler safe up to 600°F, making it a versatile cooking tool that can handle a variety of cooking methods.

Cleaning the Blue Diamond 12-inch Diamond-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Skillet is easy as it is dishwasher safe. The riveted stainless steel handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, making it easy to maneuver the skillet while cooking.

Pros:

1. Nonstick coating: This skillet features a ceramic nonstick coating infused with diamond particles, which makes it resistant and highly durable to scratches and other damage.
2. Easy to clean: The nonstick coating also makes this skillet easy to clean, as food is less likely to stick to the surface.
3. Even heat distribution: The aluminum construction of the pan ensures that heat is evenly distributed across its surface, facilitating uniform cooking throughout.
4. Oven safe: You can safely use this skillet in the oven, and it can withstand temperatures up to 600°F.
5. Dishwasher safe: You can conveniently clean this skillet by placing it in the dishwasher, ensuring easy and effortless cleaning.
6. Lightweight: The Blue Diamond skillet is lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver.

Cons:

1. Not as durable as advertised: Some users have reported that the nonstick coating on this skillet wears off relatively quickly, despite being advertised as highly durable.
2. Can warp at high heat: Some users have reported that this skillet can warp or become distorted when used on high heat, which can make it difficult to cook food evenly.
3. The handle can get hot: It’s important to note that the stainless steel handle can become hot while cooking, so remember to use oven mitts or a potholder when handling the skillet.

02# Cuisinart 622-30G Nonstick-Hard-Anodized, 12-Inch, Skillet w/Glass Cover

The Cuisinart 12-inch Hard Anodized Nonstick Skillet with Glass Cover is a durable and versatile cookware option that delivers exceptional performance and design. The skillet is constructed with hard-anodized material, which is harder than stainless steel, nonporous, and highly wear-resistant, ensuring professional-grade performance and long-lasting durability.

One of the most impressive aspects of this skillet is its outstanding design. The skillet’s sloped sides offer optimal cooking surface and performance, and its tapered slopes allow for a drip-free pour, making it easier to transfer food from the skillet to a serving dish.

The proprietary Quantanium nonstick interior, reinforced with titanium, enables long-lasting food release, healthy nonfat cooking, and effortless cleanup. This nonstick coating also promotes even heat distribution, resulting in quick and uniform heating, allowing for endless cooking possibilities.

The Cuisinart 12-inch Hard Anodized Nonstick Skillet with Glass Cover features a cool grip handle made of solid stainless steel and riveted to stay cool on the stovetop, providing a safe and secure grip while cooking.

The skillet is suitable for use on gas, electric, and induction stovetops, making it an adaptable option for any kitchen. It is also oven-safe up to 500 degrees F, making it simple to transfer from stovetop to oven.

Pros:

1. Nonstick coating: The nonstick coating on this skillet makes it easy to cook food without worrying about it sticking to the surface, making it a great option for cooking delicate items like eggs and fish.
2. Hard-anodized construction: The hard-anodized aluminum construction of this skillet provides excellent heat distribution and makes it resistant and highly durable to scratches and other damage.
3. Glass cover: With the skillet, you’ll receive a tempered glass lid that permits easy monitoring of your cooking without the need to lift it, thus preserving heat and steam.
4. Comfortable handles: The stainless steel handles are ergonomically designed and stay cool during stovetop use, making them comfortable to grip and maneuver.
5. Oven safe: You can safely use this skillet in the oven, and it can withstand temperatures up to 500°F.

Cons:

1. Not dishwasher safe: The nonstick coating on this skillet means that it is not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed.
2. Fragile glass cover: The glass cover can be fragile and may break if dropped or subjected to other forms of impact.

01# Cuisinart 722-30G Chef’s Classic 12-Inch Skillet with Glass Cover

Now our No. 1 choice of our best 12-inch skillets to buy list. The Cuisinart Stainless Steel Induction-Ready Cookware is a fantastic option for those looking for high-quality and versatile cookware. It is designed to provide professional performance with a classic appearance that will complement any kitchen décor.

One of the coolest features of the Cuisinart Stainless Steel Induction-Ready Cookware is its compatibility with different types of stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction. This makes it an ideal choice for any kitchen, as it can be used on all stovetops.

The cookware’s mirror finish not only gives it a classic look but also provides professional-grade performance. The aluminum encapsulated base heats up quickly and evenly, eliminating hot spots and ensuring that your food cooks evenly. This feature makes the cookware ideal for preparing various meals, from sautéed vegetables to seared meats.

The Cuisinart Stainless Steel Induction-Ready Cookware is designed with a stainless steel cooking surface that does not change color, interact with food, or affect the taste of your dishes. This ensures that your food retains its natural taste and flavor, resulting in delicious and healthy meals every time. The cookware also comes with measurement markings, which makes it easy to use and follow recipes accurately.

One of the most notable benefits of this cookware is its compatibility with smooth surface induction. Induction cooking is gaining popularity because it is efficient, safe, and produces precise cooking temperatures. The Cuisinart Stainless Steel Induction-Ready Cookware ensures that you can take advantage of this cooking method and enjoy its benefits.

Pros:

1. Durable construction: Crafted from premium stainless steel, this skillet exemplifies exceptional quality, renowned for its durability, as well as its resistance to corrosion and rust.
2. Even heat distribution: The use of aluminum in its construction ensures that heat is evenly distributed across the surface of the pan, promoting consistent cooking results.
3. Glass cover: With the skillet, you’ll receive a glass cover that lets you keep an eye on your food without needing to lift the lid and release heat and moisture.
4. Versatile size: With its 12-inch size, this skillet offers an excellent all-purpose dimension that caters to a big range of cooking tasks, including searing, sautéing, and frying.
5. Oven and dishwasher safe: This skillet can withstand oven temperatures up to 500°F, allowing for versatile cooking options. Additionally, it is dishwasher safe, ensuring effortless cleaning and maintenance.

Cons:

1. Heavy: Some users may find this skillet to be relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to handle, especially when it’s full of food.
2. Not nonstick: Unlike some other skillets, the Cuisinart 722-30G does not have a nonstick coating, which can make it more challenging to clean and may lead to food sticking to the cooking surface.

Final Thought

In summary, a 12-inch skillet is an indispensable and versatile cookware item for any kitchen. When searching for the perfect skillet, it’s crucial to take various factors into consideration, such as the material, size, handle, shape, and price. Cast iron skillets are renowned for their durability and compatibility with different cooking surfaces, while nonstick skillets excel at preventing food from sticking, making them ideal for delicate dishes.

Stainless steel skillets offer easy maintenance and excellent searing and browning capabilities. Additionally, prioritizing a comfortable and secure handle ensures safe and effortless use. Ultimately, the optimal skillet for you will depend on your cooking preferences, requirements, and budget. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can discover a skillet that will faithfully serve you for many years to come.

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