Comparison: What Pans Do Chefs Recommend (Updated | Dec 11th)
Ever wonder what separates your home cooking from a restaurant-quality dish? It might just be the pan. While we’re often tempted by celebrity-endorsed cookware, what do the real culinary masters actually use in their professional kitchens? We’ve asked chefs from diverse culinary backgrounds to reveal their trusted cookware companions. From searing perfect steaks to crafting delicate sauces, their recommendations might surprise you.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for eco-friendly nonstick: CAROTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet
- Best for professional tri-ply: COOKER KING Stainless Steel Pans Set of 3 (8+10+12 Inch)
- Best for swiss nonstick quality: SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid
- Best for commercial grade baking: Baking Sheet Pan Set of 3
- Best for effortless egg cooking: SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet
- Best for healthy ceramic surface: SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan Skillet
- Best for compact ceramic wonder: SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan Skillet
- Best for airtight storage solution: P&P CHEF Stainless Steel Baking Pan with Lid
- Best for versatile chef’s pan: Cooks Standard Everyday Pan with Glass Lid
- Best for durable stainless steel: P&P CHEF Stainless Steel Baking Pan with Lid
Product Comparison: What Pans Do Chefs Recommend
Eco-Friendly Nonstick
CAROTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet,Non Stick Granite Fry Pan Egg Pan Omelet Pans, Stone Cookware Chef’s Pan, PFOA Free,Induction Compatible(Classic Granite, 8-Inch)
CAROTE
- Eco-friendly Classic Granite – Non-stick Granite Material, PFOS,PFOA free, our cookware ensures your daily cooking is always safer and healthier.
- Easy To Clean – Just wipe it with a paper towel or rinse it with water, Less Co2 emission and Less water wasted.
- Suitable For All Stoves – Heats up quickly and evenly with extended bottom design. High magnetic conductive stainless steel base allows our nonstick cookware to work on all cooktops, including induction.
- Less Oil Needed & Less Smoke Released: Our non-stick frying pan can be used for any cooking needs like egg pan,omelette pan, or grill pan with less oil. Reduce unnecessary fat intake, and stay away from a smoky kitchen.
- Service & Guarantee – Each CAROTE cookware passes strict multi inspection process.In case you received defect items caused by delivery, please don’t hesitate to reach out, thanks. You will be guaranteed to get 100% refund or a new replacement.
Professional Tri-Ply
COOKER KING Stainless Steel Pans Set of 3 (8+10+12 Inch), Nonstick Frying Pans, Induction Pan Set, Chef’s Pan, Skillets Dishwasher & Oven Safe, Stay-Cool Handles, Compatible with All Cooktops
COOKER KING
- 【Non-Toxic Frying Pans Set】: The frying pan set is made of 3-ply food-grade stainless steel to ensure even and fast heat distribution without harmful coatings and is free from harmful materials such as PFOA, PTFE, PFAS, lead, cadmium and toxic metals
- 【Easy to Clean & Non-stick】: Our stainless steel frying pans use all-natural ceramic etching coating do a good job in preventing food from sticking meanwhile and can use the metal shovels, so cleaning is a breeze. Simply rinse with water
- 【Induction Frying Pan Sets】: This stainless steel pan is induction compatible, suitable for all kitchens, gas, electric and ceramic cooktops and is oven safe up to 500°F（260°C）
- 【Stainless Steel Skillet Set Includes】: 8 inch Frying Pan, 10 inch Frying Pan, 12 inch Fry pan for everything from eggs to steak and fish. Ideal choice for healthy family cooking
- 【Stay-Cool Handles】: The stainless steel skillet is long stainless steel handles stay cool while cooking and are secured with stainless steel rivets for a lifetime of use
- 【Customer Service】: COOKER KING 3 Ply Stainless steel pan passes a strict multi-inspection process. In case you received defective items caused by delivery, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your satisfaction is our priority
- 【Tri Ply Stainless Steel Pans Set】Low to medium heat offers best cooking performance.
- Note: Overheating can cause brown or blue stains. This is not a defect in the product; it occurs from using a too high heat setting (typically in an empty or minimally filled pan)
Swiss Nonstick Quality
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, Omelet Pan with Cover, Healthy Egg Pan Chef’s Pan, Kitchen Cooking Pan, PFOA Free (8inch + Glass Lid)
SENSARTE
- SWISS Non-Stick Coating – Swiss ILAG nonstick granite coating, SGS approved. PFOA free, smokeless, safe & healthy. Cooking with less oil for healthy diet.
- Tempered Glass Lid – Comes with long-lasting tempered glass lid which makes it convenient to see the cooking status and limits splashes on your stove. Can be used for any cooking needs like egg pan, omelette pan.
- Suitable For All Stoves – High magnetic conductive stainless steel base allows the nonstick skillet with lid to work on all cooktops, including induction. The core of the small non-toxic frying pan with lid is sturdy and long-lasting. Heats up quickly and evenly.
- Very Easy Cleaning – The 8inch nonstick omelet pan with lid is super easy to clean up, just wipe it with a paper towel or rinse it with water. Less water wasted.
- Ergonomic Woodgrain Bakelite Handle – The handle of the 8inch nonstick cooking pan with lid features woodgrain design, it is comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking. Oven safe up to 302°F.
Commercial Grade Baking
Baking Sheet Pan Set of 3, Commercial Quality Aluminum Cookie Sheets for Oven, Umite Chef Warp Resistant Baker’s Half/Quarter/Jelly Roll Pans, Thick Cookie Tray Pans for Baking, Roasting
Umite Chef
- PURE UNCOATED ALUMINUM & SUPERIOR HEAT CONDUCTION: Crafted from 100% bare aluminum with NO chemical coatings – guarantees safe, toxin-free cooking. Engineered for lightning-fast, even heat distribution (up to 30% faster than steel!) for perfectly crispy cookies, golden roasted veggies, and juicy meats every time. The aluminum baking pans are made of thick and heavy aluminum, with a heavy rolled edge making this truly “commercial-grade”that provides maximized scratch resistance
- NO MORE BURNT BOTTOMS: They perform better than ordinary stainless steel baking pans in terms of heat resistance and cook everything evenly, withstand temperatures of up to 500ºF / 260ºC without warping. Foods bake evenly due to aluminum’s superior heat conductivity
- Baking set includes a Quarter Sheet, Jelly Roll, and Half Sheet Pan, providing a pan for every baking and cooking need, from cookies and sweet treats to sheet pan meals.
- REINFORCED ENCAPSULATED SOLID CORE RIM: Reinforced encapsulated solid core steel rim prevents warping and adds strength also making it easy to remove from the oven. These aluminum pans have a tall side, which almost eliminates any splattering onto the oven floor, which is so common with a sheet cake pan. These baking trays are non-toxic, BPA-free, and food-safe, You can rest assured that these aluminum baking pans will give you the perfectly baked product every time
- NO MORE STICKY STAINS – EASY-CLEAN NATURAL PATINA: Hand-wash recommended (dishwasher use may cause harmless oxidation). Stubborn residue? Use baking soda paste or lemon juice! Developing a natural dark patina over time enhances flavor – like cast iron, but 70% lighter!
Effortless Egg Cooking
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, Omelette Pan, Healthy Stone Cookware Chef’s Pan, PFOA Free, Toffee Brown (12.5 Inch)
SENSARTE
- SUPER NONSTICK – The surface is smooth and super nonstick, eggs can just slide right off the pan without effort, which makes cooking easier and the food much more flavorable with less oil!
- WOODGRAIN BAKELITE HANDLE – The bakelite handle features woodgrain design, it is comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking. Oven safe to 302°F.
- HIGH MAGNETIC CONDUCTIVE BASE – High magnetic conductive stainless steel base. The nonstick skillet bottom is flat and thick, which helps distribute heat evenly and quickly. Suitable for all stove, including induction cooktop.
- STURDY BODY – The nonstick frying pan is made of heavy-duty cast aluminum to prevent it from warping and wobbling.
- EASE OF CLEANING – Its slippery, nonstick surface and no rivets design make the egg pan easy to clean in seconds with a towel, soap and warm water. Dishwasher safe, but recommend hand washing to extend its lifespan.
Healthy Ceramic Surface
SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch Omelet Pan, Healthy Non Toxic Chef Pan, Induction Compatible Egg Pan with Heat Resistant Handle, PFAS-Free
SENSARTE
- HEALTHY CERAMIC SKILLET – Made of natural ceramic, free of PFOA, PTFE, PFAS, lead and cadmium, safe and healthy. No toxic substances will be produced even overheated. No coating to come off into your food.
- SUPER NONSTICK – The surface is smooth and super nonstick, eggs can just slide right off the pan without effort, which makes cooking easier and the food much more flavorable with less oil!
- INDUCTION COMPATIBLE – The frying pan is made of heavy-duty cast aluminum with induction base to prevent from warping, wobbling, or degrading over time, heats fast and evenly. Suitable for all stovetops, including Induction cooktop.
- HEAT RESISTANT HANDLE – The bakelite handle features woodgrain design, it is comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking. The omelete pan is oven safe to 550°F (please remove the handle).
- EASE OF CLEANING – No one loves to do extra dishes. Its slippery, nonstick surface and no rivets design make these pots and pans easy to clean in seconds with a towel, soap and warm water. Recommend Hand Washing to extend the life of pans.
Compact Ceramic Wonder
SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan Skillet, 8-Inch Omelet Pan, Healthy Non Toxic Chef Pan, Induction Compatible Egg Pan with Heat Resistant Handle, PFAS-Free, White
SENSARTE
- HEALTHY CERAMIC SKILLET – Made of natural ceramic, free of PFOA, PTFE, PFAS, lead, and cadmium, ensuring safety and health. This skillet does not produce toxic fumes even when overheated, and no coating will come off into your food.
- SUPER NONSTICK – The surface is smooth and super nonstick, eggs can just slide right off the pan without effort, which makes cooking easier and the food much more flavorable with less oil!
- INDUCTION COMPATIBLE – The nonstick frying pan is constructed from cast aluminum with induction base to prevent from warping, wobbling, or degrading over time, heats fast and evenly. Suitable for all stovetops, including Induction cooktop.
- HEAT RESISTANT HANDLE – The bakelite handle features woodgrain design, it is comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking. The omelete pan is oven safe to 550°F (please remove the handle).
- EASE OF CLEANING – No one loves to do extra dishes. Its slippery, nonstick surface and no rivets design make the egg pan easy to clean in seconds with a towel, soap and warm water. Recommend Hand Washing to extend the life of pans.
- All skillets are made from recycled aluminum with healthy ceramic nonstick material to reduce carbon dioxideemissions by 80%.
Airtight Storage Solution
P&P CHEF Stainless Steel Baking Pan with Lid, Rectangular Cake Pans, Sheet Pan Bakeware for Baking Lasagna Brownies, 2-Inch Deep Side & Heavy Duty, Easy to Store & Clean (12.3″, 4Pcs)
P&P CHEF
- 【HEALTHY MATERIALS】P&P CHEF baking sheet is made of pure stainless steel, Superior heat conductivity conducive to bake food evenly, Heavy duty construction resist warp, lid made of food-grade plastic, No worries any toxic or harmful materials into your food, Healthier than the aluminium pan, Durable for long-term use
- 【VISIBLE & AIRTIGHT LID】Visible lid allows you find your food accurately without opening it, Airtight lid comes with totally 10 notches, Helps close the lid tightly to keep the contents dry and fresh, Differ from conventional cover, Our lid raised up to 1.2 inch, Perfect to store lasagna and cake without breaking their shape and decoration
- 【EASY CLEAN】Deep rim all round contain food juice,Keeping your oven neat, Round corner and rolled edges for less buildup of food, Brushed surface make food released easily, Easy clean by hand with warm soapy water and sponge, Pan is dishwasher safe as pure stainless steel material is rust free and always keep pan shiny, lid is hand-wash recommended
- 【STAINLESS STEEL BAKING PAN】Measured 12.3 x 9.7 inches, 2-Inch deep rim can make multi-layered dishes and contained more food, Not as regular baking sheet, Our stainless steel baking pan come with solid construction, Will not warp and feel sturdy when holding in hands, Unbreakable than ceramic pan, Brushed surface finish for abrasion resistance
- 【MULTI USES】This set available in 2 pans and 2 lids, Single pan could be used as a fruit or vegetable container, serving pan, meat or cake baking pan and lasagna pan, Working with lid to store your desserts/casseroles/cake/lasagna and transport food for picnic/camping/hiking, Great gift for Housewarming, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Wedding
Versatile Chef’s Pan
Cooks Standard Everyday Pan with Glass Lid, Chef’s Pan 12-Inch Hard Anodized Nonstick All Purpose Pan 5-Quart Wok Stir Fry Pan, Black
Cooks Standard
- Versatile Design: The Cooks Standard 12 inch hard anodized nonstick wok stir fry pan has a 5-quart capacity, making it suitable for various cooking needs such as frying, stewing, and making soups
- Hard Anodized Construction: Everyday pan are made with a hard anodized surface, which is stronger and more durable than ordinary stainless steel, providing excellent scratch resistance and long lasting performance
- Nonstick Chef’s Pans: The nonstick coating, combined with the durable anodized material, ensures that food doesn’t easily stick to the pan and makes it easy to clean
- Ergonomic handle: Nonstick all purpose pan equipped with tempered glass lids and steam vent that allow steam to escape for viewing food while cooking; Riveted stainless steel handle with air flow technology is durable, comfortable to hold and stays cool
- Compatible with all Stovetops: Nonstick wok suitable for induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, halogen, etc; Oven safe up to 500℉; Dishwasher safe, easy to clean
Durable Stainless Steel
P&P CHEF Stainless Steel Baking Pan with Lid, Rectangular Cake Pans, Sheet Pan Bakeware for Baking Lasagna Brownies, 2-Inch Deep Side & Heavy Duty, Easy to Store & Clean (12.3″, 2Pcs)
P&P CHEF
- 【HEALTHY MATERIALS】P&P CHEF baking sheet is made of pure stainless steel, Superior heat conductivity conducive to bake food evenly, Heavy duty construction resist warp, lid made of food-grade plastic, No worries any toxic or harmful materials into your food, Healthier than the aluminium pan, Durable for long-term use
- 【VISIBLE & AIRTIGHT LID】Visible lid allows you find your food accurately without opening it, Airtight lid comes with totally 10 notches, Helps close the lid tightly to keep the contents dry and fresh, Differ from conventional cover, Our lid raised up to 1.2 inch, Perfect to store lasagna and cake without breaking their shape and decoration
- 【EASY CLEAN】Deep rim all round contain food juice,Keeping your oven neat, Round corner and rolled edges for less buildup of food, Brushed surface make food released easily, Easy clean by hand with warm soapy water and sponge, Pan is dishwasher safe as pure stainless steel material is rust free and always keep pan shiny, lid is hand-wash recommended
- 【STAINLESS STEEL BAKING PAN】Measured 12.3 x 9.7 inches,2-Inch deep rim can make multi-layered dishes and contained more food, Not as regular baking sheet, Our stainless steel baking pan come with solid construction, Will not warp and feel sturdy when holding in hands, Unbreakable than ceramic pan, Brushed surface finish for abrasion resistance
- 【MULTI USES】This set available in 1 pan and 1 lid, Single pan could be used as a fruit or vegetable container, serving pan, meat or cake baking pan and lasagna pan, Working with lid to store your desserts/casseroles/cake/lasagna and transport food for picnic/camping/hiking, Great gift for Housewarming, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Wedding
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 types of pans do chefs recommend most?
Chefs often recommend stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick pans for their versatility and durability. Stainless steel is ideal for searing and sautéing, while cast iron excels at heat retention. Non-stick pans are perfect for delicate foods like eggs or fish.
Why do chefs prefer stainless steel pans?
Stainless steel pans offer excellent heat distribution and are non-reactive, making them great for a wide range of dishes. They develop a fond, which is essential for creating rich sauces. These pans are also durable and can withstand high temperatures.
Are non-stick pans worth the investment?
Non-stick pans are worth it for specific tasks like cooking eggs or pancakes, where sticking is a concern. However, they may not last as long as stainless steel or cast iron. Look for high-quality, PFOA-free options for better durability.
How does cast iron compare to other pans?
Cast iron pans are unmatched for heat retention and even cooking, making them ideal for searing and frying. They require seasoning and maintenance but can last a lifetime. However, they are heavier and slower to heat up than other materials.
What features should I look for in a chef-recommended pan?
Look for pans with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution and a comfortable, heat-resistant handle. Oven-safe compatibility adds versatility, especially for stainless steel and cast iron. Ensure the material suits your cooking style, whether it’s non-stick for ease or stainless for precision.
Are expensive pans always better?
Not necessarily—expensive pans often offer better materials and construction, but mid-range options can perform well too. Focus on features like material, weight, and handle design rather than brand alone. A well-maintained mid-range pan can outperform a neglected high-end one.
How do I choose between a skillet and a sauté pan?
Skillets have sloped sides, making them ideal for stirring and flipping, while sauté pans have straight sides for better liquid capacity. Choose a skillet for general-purpose cooking and a sauté pan for sauces or braising. Both are staples in a chef’s kitchen.
What’s the best way to care for chef-recommended pans?
Stainless steel and cast iron pans should be cleaned with hot water and a brush, avoiding harsh detergents. Non-stick pans require gentle cleaning to preserve the coating. Regular seasoning for cast iron and proper storage for all pans will extend their lifespan.