Comparison: Best Cooking Pan To Cook Steak (Updated | Dec 11th)
Sizzling, perfectly seared steaks start with one crucial decision: your pan. While many home chefs believe the cut of meat is everything, the truth is that your pan choice can make or break that coveted crust. In this guide, we’ll cut through the marketing hype and help you discover the perfect pan for turning your next steak into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for nonstick grill master: SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops
- Best for crispy baking set: GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack – Pizza Crisper
- Best for classic cast iron: Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan
- Best for premium granite sear: CAROTE 11 Inch Nonstick Grill Pan for Steak – Premium Granite Nonstick Coating
- Best for versatile griddle pro: SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops
- Best for eco-friendly grill: ESLITE LIFE 11 Inch Nonstick Grill Pan with Lid for Indoor Cooking
- Best for serving steakhouse style: Nordic Ware Indoor/Outdoor Sizzling Steak Server
- Best for oven crisping tray: Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack; Natural Aluminum For Air Frying
- Best for etched nonstick surface: SNOWCLAD Nonstick Grill Pan
- Best for tri-ply performance: DELARLO Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Product Comparison: Best Cooking Pan To Cook Steak
Nonstick Grill Master
SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops, Versatile Griddle with Pour Spouts, Square Big Cooking Surface, Durable Skillet Indoor & Outdoor Grilling. PFOA Free, 9.5 Inch
SENSARTE
- Nonstick & Easy to Clean: The Switzerland ILAG nonstick coating is very effective in preventing anything from sticking to the surface, even with minimal oil, and also makes cleaning a breeze, just wipe it with a paper towel or rinse it with water. Free of PFOA and PFOS.
- Sturdy & Durable: This grill pan is made of die cast aluminum, stury and no warp. The bakelite handle features comfortable to grip and stays cool to the touch.
- Versatile Griddle Pan: This is a versatile tool to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise or fry. You can cook steak, bacon, grill cheese, chicken breast and veggies indoor or outdoor, no matter the weather is hot or cold, wet or dry.
- Good for All Cooktops: This grill skillet can be used on gas, electric, induction and glass or ceramic cooktops. The thick high magnetic conductive stainless steel base helps distribute heat evenly and quickly.
- Perfect Grill Marks: The raised ribs leave perfect grill marks for a great presentation and keep the fat down in the grooves. The pour spouts on either side of the pan make it easy to drain those excess fats and liquids.
Crispy Baking Set
GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack – Pizza Crisper, Crispy Bacon, Multipurpose Cooking Sheet Pan, Cooling Rack, Kitchen Cookware Set, Dishwasher Safe
GoodCook
- CRISPY BAKING SHEET SET: Ensure crisp results every time in the oven. This 15” x 10.5” nonstick baking pan and wire rack is great for crisping bacon, chicken, wings, fries, chips, and much more.
- RAISED WIRE BAKING RACK: This cookware pan keeps your food elevated from grease and has a rim inside the pan to hold the rack in place. It can also be used on its own for glazing, drying, or cooling baked goods.
- NON-STICK COOKING SHEET: This sheet pan evenly distributes heat for thorough baking with a PFOA-free nonstick coating to provide excellent release. It is a GoodCook exclusive formula that performs better than other single-coat systems.
- MADE WITH DURABLE CARBON STEEL: This cooking pan is made with heavy-duty carbon steel to effectively resist warping and offer delicious baking for years of use. It is versatile to use the pieces together, on their own, or inside and outside the oven.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Both the cooking sheet and the baking rack are oven-safe up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit as well as dishwasher-safe to make clean-up a breeze.
Classic Cast Iron
Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan, Square, 10.5 Inch
Lodge
- YOUR NEW GO-TO GRILL PAN: Lodge cast iron cookware is the perfect kitchen tool for beginners, home cooks and chefs. Cast iron can handle any kitchen cooktop, oven, grill, and open flame. Crafted in America with iron and oil, its naturally seasoned cooking surface creates an easy-release and improves with use
- SEASONED COOKWARE: Seasoning is simply oil baked into the iron, giving it a natural, easy-release finish and helps prevent your pan from rusting. Lodge pre-seasons all cast iron cookware with 100% natural vegetable oil: no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use this stove top griddle the better the seasoning will get!
- RUST? DON’T PANIC! IT’S NOT BROKEN: When your pan arrives you may notice a spot that looks like rust. It is simply oil that has not fully carbonized. With regular use and care the spot will disappear. If you do notice rust simply scour the affected area with steel wool, rinse, dry, and rub with vegetable oil
- COOKING VERSATILITY: Our grill pans have unparalleled heat retention that gives you edge-to-edge even cooking every time you use your grill pan. Cast iron cookware is slow to heat up but retains heat longer which makes cast iron ideal for pan-frying and roasting, these delicious moments are cast to last
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it is a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America. Lodge products are made in the USA with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material
Premium Granite Sear
CAROTE 11 Inch Nonstick Grill Pan for Steak – Premium Granite Nonstick Coating, Square Grill Skillet, Indoor Outdoor RV Camping Use, Gas & Induction Safe, All Stovetops Compatible, PFOA Free, Black
CAROTE
- Universal Stovetop Compatibility—Carote grill pan can work flawlessly on gas, induction, electric, and ceramic cooktops. Seamlessly transitions from indoor kitchens to outdoor cooking setups.
- Even Heating & Professional Grill Marks—Thick base ensures consistent heat distribution for perfect results. The griddle pan’s suspended oxygen design can easily lock in the freshness of food while effectively draining excess grease from the food.
- Secure Cool-Grip Handle & Sturdy Build—The steak pan’s dark wood-grain handle stays comfortable during cooking and resists warping. Reinforced construction maintains stability across daily high-heat use.
- Long-Lasting Nonstick & Effortless Cleaning—Carote grill pan with high-density granite non-stick coating prevents sticking with minimal oil. Residue wipes away easily with a damp cloth or soft sponge.
- Service & Guarantee—Each CAROTE griddle pan passes strict multi inspection process. In case you received defect items caused by delivery, please don’t hesitate to reach out, you will be guaranteed to get satisfying solution.
Versatile Griddle Pro
SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan for Stove Tops, Versatile Griddle Pan with Pour Spouts, Square Grill Pan for Big Cooking Surface, Durable Grill Skillet for Indoor & Outdoor Grilling. PFOA Free, 11 Inch
SENSARTE
- Nonstick & Easy to Clean: The Switzerland ILAG nonstick coating is very effective in preventing anything from sticking to the surface, even with minimal oil, and also makes cleaning a breeze, just wipe it with a paper towel or rinse it with water. Free of PFOA and PFOS.
- Sturdy & Durable: This grill pan is made of die cast aluminum, stury and no warp. The bakelite handle features comfortable to grip and stays cool to the touch.
- Versatile Griddle Pan: This is a versatile tool to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise or fry. You can cook steak, bacon, grill cheese, chicken breast and veggies indoor or outdoor, no matter the weather is hot or cold, wet or dry.
- Good for All Cooktops: This grill skillet can be used on gas, electric, induction and glass or ceramic cooktops. The thick high magnetic conductive stainless steel base helps distribute heat evenly and quickly.
- Perfect Grill Marks: The raised ribs leave perfect grill marks for a great presentation and keep the fat down in the grooves. The pour spouts on either side of the pan make it easy to drain those excess fats and liquids.
Eco-Friendly Grill
ESLITE LIFE 11 Inch Nonstick Grill Pan with Lid for Indoor Cooking, Versatile Induction Square Large Grilling Skillet Steak Pan for Stove Tops, PTFE & PFOA Free, Black
ESLITE LIFE
- Eco-friendly Non-Stick Granite Coating & Super Easy to Clean – Our grill pan interior is coated by non-stick granite coating, SGS approved, 100% PFOA free. Require less oil or butter for cooking and minimal scrubbing for a spotless clean, giving you a healthier and more enjoyable at-home cooking experience.
- Widely & Easy to Use – Perfect for bacon, steaks, grill cheese, browning onions and more. The parallel ridges channel the grease to the sides, it allows to get grill marks on your food with great grill lines, double pour spouts makes it easier to drain excess oil, and the heat resistant bakelite handle are suitable for grasping and staying cooling while cooking. Time to upgrade your pots and pans and spruce up your kitchen decor!
- Compatible with All Stovetops – Design with perfect magnetized base makes it rapid heat transfer and long-time use, used effectively on gas, ceramic, electric, and induction stove tops, made for any kitchen and cooktop, an ideal replacement solution for your aging, worn out, or failed cooking equipment.
- Sturdy & Durable Body – The advanced die-cast aluminum technology, combined the advantage of cast-iron and traditional riveted cookware, conducts heats quickly & evenly, the thicken induction compatible bottom provides a stable heat distribution during cooking, rapidly heating up, saves time and energy.
- Service & Guarantee – ESLITE LIFE has over 30 years experiences in non-stick cookware, in case you receive defect or damaged frying pan by shipping, please feel free to contact us, we will address your concern within 24 hours and all cookware is guaranteed to get 100% refund or new replacement. Really appreciate your trust and ordering!
Serving Steakhouse Style
Nordic Ware Indoor/Outdoor Sizzling Steak Server
Nordic Ware
- Inspired by the sizzling hot platters you find at fine steakhouses, the Sizzling Server allows you to serve your grilled meats—be it chicken, steak, or pork chops—just like the pros do.
- As your meal nears completion on the grill, simply place the stainless platter on top of your grill lid, or for truly sizzling results, directly on the grill grates.
- Perfect for 1-2 portions, this small, personal-sized server keeps food warm while serving
- The BPA and melamine free plastic serving plate measures 11.4 x 7.8 x 0.9 inches and the interior formed stainless steel platter measures 6.1 x 9.4 inches.
- Made in America of domestic and imported materials.
Oven Crisping Tray
Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan and Rack; Natural Aluminum For Air Frying, Crisping, Broiling, Baking; Cooking Surface 17 x 12 Inches
Nordic Ware
- Great for making a variety of delicious treats like bacon, jerky, dried fruits, crisp fries, veggies and more
- A healthier option to traditional frying, the pan catches drippings and the nonstick coated steel rack elevates food while the hot air circulates underneath so there’s no need for turning foods
- Pan made of formed aluminum which conducts heat rapidly and evenly, resulting in beautifully browned foods no matter what’s on the menu
- Easy clean up, hand wash only. Aluminum is reactive to acidic ingredients such as vinegar and tomato products. These foods may darken, pit or corrode the pan after prolonged use.
- Made in America of domestic and imported materials and components.
Etched Nonstick Surface
SNOWCLAD Nonstick Grill Pan,12 Inch Square Steak Grilling Pan for Indoor Cooking & Outdoor Grilling, Non Stick Stainless Steel Grill Skillet Steak Pan, PFOA Free cookware
SNOWCLAD
- 【Innovative Etched Nonstick Surface】SNOWCLAD’s stainless steel grill pan features an advanced etched nonstick texture—completely free of any toxic substances like PFOA or PFOS. Designed for effortless food release and smooth searing, it lets you cook flavorful meals safely and easily every time.
- 【Premium Stainless Steel Durability】Built with heavy-duty stainless steel, this griddle pan resists warping and scratching for long-lasting performance. The ergonomic handle stays cool and provides a secure, comfortable grip while cooking.
- 【Perfect for Indoor Cooking】Whether grilling steak, chicken, or vegetables, this grill pan for indoor cooking delivers perfect sear marks and rich flavor without the smoke or mess of outdoor grilling—ideal for any season.
- 【Even Heat & Versatile Use】Our griddle pan for stove top ensures fast, even heat distribution across the surface. Compatible with all cooktops—gas, electric, ceramic, and induction—making it your go-to stove top grill for daily meals.
- 【Easy to Clean & Maintain】The etched nonstick design prevents residue buildup, making cleanup quick and easy—simply wipe or rinse. Dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 500°F, this steak pan is built for convenience and performance.
Tri-Ply Performance
DELARLO Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Frying Pan, All Cooktops Compatible Up to 600℉, Oven Safe Induction Skillet, 12.5 inch Non toxic Cooking Surface, Fast & Even Heat, Durable Cookware
DELARLO
- 【Usage Suggestions 】DELARLO Stainless Steel Frying Pan Efficient Allows Heat to Pass Through the Entire Pan Fast. Please Do Not Heat the Empty Cooker. Suggest Cooking with Medium-Low Heat.
- 【Compatible with All Cooktops Up to 600℉】
- 【EFFICIENT EVEN HEAT】DELARLO Frying Pan Combines 304 Food Grade Stainless Steel, an Aluminium Core, and 18/0 Outer Stainless Steel. Delarlo Skillets and Frying Pans Allows Heat to Pass Through the Entire Pan, Bottom to Sidewall, with Quick & Even Heat
- 【ENERGY SAVING】DELARLO Stainless Steel Pan Can Save Fuel By Up To 20%. Efficient Heating, Energy Savings Make It a Great Choice for Cooks Seeking Both Performance and Savings. 3-Layer Metal Construction Delivers Performance and Durability for Years to Come.
- 【NON TOXIC】DELARLO Stainless Steel Frying Pan’s 304 Stainless Steel Cooking Surface Won’t React with Food to Alter Natural Tastes, Delivers Fresh, Flavorful Results. Delarlo 12 inch Frying Pan also has More Surface Area than the Average 12 inch Skillet on the Market, Providing a Wider Cooking Space.
- 【DURABLE & HEAVY DUTY】DELARLO Stainless Steel Skillet is Not Only Durable and Heavy-Duty But Also Enables Its Body to Withstand a High Temperature of Up To 600°F. The Sturdy Hollow Handle Design Reduces Heat Transfer. Featuring a Steam Vent For Safety, And a Sturdy Hollow Handle Design To Reduce Heat Transfer.
- 【PRACTICAL & CLASSIC】DELARLO Induction Frying Pan 12 inch Features a Rounded and Encapsulated Rim, which Enables Drip-Free Pouring and Easy Transfers. Delarlo 12 in Skillet Supports Various Cooking Methods Ranging From Stove to Oven. Moreover, It has a Rivet-Free Surface to Eliminate Food Traps.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What type of pan is best for cooking steak?
Cast iron pans are ideal for searing steak due to their excellent heat retention and even cooking. Stainless steel pans are another great option, offering durability and a good sear when preheated properly. Avoid non-stick pans, as they can’t handle the high heat needed for a perfect crust.
How do cast iron and stainless steel pans compare for steak?
Cast iron provides superior heat retention, making it perfect for achieving a deep, caramelized crust. Stainless steel heats up faster and is lighter, but requires more attention to avoid hot spots. Both are versatile, but cast iron is often preferred for steak enthusiasts.
What features should I look for in a steak pan?
Look for a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent warping. A pan with high sides can help contain splatters, while a long handle offers better control. Opt for a pan that’s oven-safe for finishing steaks in the oven if needed.
Is a non-stick pan ever a good choice for steak?
Non-stick pans are generally not recommended for steak because they can’t withstand the high heat required for a proper sear. They may also release harmful fumes when overheated. However, they can work for thinner cuts or if you prefer a lighter crust with less oil.
How important is pan size for cooking steak?
Choose a pan that comfortably fits your steak without overcrowding, as this ensures even cooking and a good sear. A 10-12 inch pan is versatile for most steak sizes. Overcrowding can steam the meat instead of searing it, so bigger is often better.
Are pre-seasoned cast iron pans worth it?
Yes, pre-seasoned cast iron pans save time and offer a ready-to-use cooking surface. They still require regular maintenance to maintain the seasoning, but they’re more convenient than raw cast iron. Over time, you can build up the seasoning further for a natural non-stick surface.
What’s the best way to clean a steak pan?
For cast iron, avoid soap and instead scrub with hot water and a brush or salt to preserve the seasoning. Stainless steel pans can handle soap and abrasive sponges but should be dried immediately to prevent rust. Always dry and oil cast iron pans after cleaning to maintain their surface.
How much should I spend on a quality steak pan?
A good cast iron or stainless steel pan typically costs between $30 and $100, depending on brand and size. Budget-friendly options like Lodge cast iron offer excellent value, while premium brands like All-Clad provide superior craftsmanship. Investing in a durable pan ensures better results and longevity.
