Like mine, your first frying pan probably came as part of a cheap set of kitchen cookware, lacking quality in every way.
For years, I didn’t know how bad these pans were. I grew up using poorly made cooking instruments. It was all I knew.
Later in life, I was introduced to professional grade cookware that has changed how I approach the kitchen. This came in the form of ceramic and non-stick pans. Now that I have had a taste, I can never go back. That is why I want to share this best ceramic frying pan & non-stick frying pan review with you and let it change the way you cook forever!
Choosing the Best Ceramic Frying Pan
In terms of history, ceramic coatings are the “new kid on the block.” Even though they haven’t been around as long as the original Teflon coatings, they have a couple of benefits that give them an edge on the market.
Generally speaking, ceramic based coatings tend to be chemical free and more environmentally friendly than the fluoropolymer options. This is important if you are worried about the possibility of chemicals from your cookware making it into your food.
While both coatings are considered to be safe when used within the correct temperature range, ceramic coatings negate the risk of becoming ill from ingesting harmful chemicals or breathing noxious fumes.
This is because they are typically free of the lead, cadmium, PFOA, or PTFE that is sometimes found in fluoropolymer-based coatings.
If you are worried about chemical contamination or environmental friendliness, ceramic has the upper hand. However, these benefits do not come without a trade-off.
It is important to consider your priorities, as well as your habits or preferences related to the use of frying pans.
Despite many improvements to ceramic cookware in recent years, most people still find that ceramic wears out faster and is more prone to damage when subjected to improper use. This is especially true for those who tend to use a lot of oil when cooking.
If not properly cleaned after each use, oil has tendency to build up on the ceramic coating and counteract the non-stick properties of the ceramic. In addition, any attempt to remove old, dried on oil may require methods that also risk removing the coating itself.
* Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan
Another great non-stick frying pan comes to us courtesy of Ozeri. It features a unique, stone-based coating originating from Germany. True to its name, the stone derived material allows this product to be safe and environmentally friendly.
In addition to being PFOA free like many other non-stick pans, it is also free of some lesser known but still controversial chemicals such as APEO, NMP, and NEP. This reduces you and your family’s risk of being exposed to any sort of dangerous chemicals, even at high heat.
Despite being made of a different material, this “Stonehenge” coating boasts the same non-stick performance as its competitors, some would say it has even better non-stick properties. Free from harmful chemicals while still being non-stick allows customers to get the “best of both worlds”, so to speak.
Most traditional cookware has the same non-stick properties, but with the risk of exposure to chemicals with possible carcinogens.
Although it still contains PTFE, it is reinforced with ceramic and is safe for use up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. If used correctly, normal cooking should never expose the pan to that degree of heat.
This Stone Earth Pan also boasts a durable and strong construction that facilitates many years of use. Working seamlessly with the stone-derived coating on the inside, the interior of the pan is made from heavy-gauge, die-cast aluminum.
Aluminum does a great job distributing heat from your stove quickly and evenly to the entire pan. Unlike some of its competitors, the Stone Earth Frying Pan also has a magnetized base. The benefit to this is its ability to be used with induction stoves, which require ferrous (magnetic) material to work.
On the outside of the frying pan, you’ll find a comfortable and heat resistant silicon coated handle. Attached with three solid rivets to the body of the pan, the handle is built strong and tough to outlast the pan and ergonomically designed to feel natural to the touch.
As well as being a great non-stick surface, the “Stonehenge” coating is also naturally hard and scratch-resistant for added protection against the sometimes intense kitchen environment. It is also safe for use in a conventional oven at up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
As we have previously discussed, and as is true with any non-stick pan, there are certain steps you can take to prolong the lifespan of your cookware. First and foremost is to never heat the pan beyond the recommended temperatures. Doing so can cause the coating to begin to break down and degrade.
Second is to never use metal utensils that can potentially wear through or scratch at the coating. Third is to always season the pan properly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the case of this Ozeri Stone Earth Pan, you can get away with using less oil than with competitor’s pans, due to the superior non-stick properties achieved by the PTFE and ceramic combo.
Pros:
- Free from the harmful chemicals APEO, PFOA, NMP, and NEP
- Eco-friendly and incredible non-stick properties
- Scratch resistant, hardened coating
- Easy to clean
- Durable construction
- Quick and even heat transfer
- Induction stove top compatible
- Reinforced, heat resistant, silicone covered handle
Cons:
- Not PTFE (Teflon) free, so beware if flaking does occur
- Several users reported receiving pans with a high spot in the center
- Several customers received defective pans, coating did not last
* Blue Diamond CC001598-001 Ceramic Open Frying Pan
If you watch any amount of TV, chances are that you have seen an advertisement for our upcoming frying pan. The Blue Diamond CC001598-001 is a ceramic frying pan that holds up to hard use, even against metal utensils. As hinted at in the name, the non-stick coating is infused with diamonds, known to be the hardest natural material in the world.
It is this critical addition that allows the Blue Diamond frying pan to hold up against greater abuse than many other non-stick frying pans. Diamond is also a great conductor of heat, further improving its performance on the cook top.
Compared to traditional cookware, these ceramic non-stick frying pans boast superior performance in a variety of ways. This includes being five times as hard and lasting ten times as long.
With a heat transfer ability that is four times better than copper, you’ll achieve quick and even heating across the entire pan. While it is most efficient to cook on low to medium heat, this frying pan is also safe for temperatures up to 85o degrees Fahrenheit.
This means you can use it in a conventional oven, broiler, or dishwasher without worrying about damaging the coating.
On top of being non-stick and scratch resistant during cooking, the easy release surface makes for easy clean up after the fact as well.
This safe ceramic frying pan has a coating that facilitates these great benefits while also being toxin free.
Since it does not contain PFAS, PFOA, lead, cadmium, or other harmful chemicals found in traditional non-stick cookware, you don’t have to worry about the release of toxic fumes even if it does become overheated by mistake.
The addition of diamond to the coating also prevents scratching, chipping, or flaking so the coating does not end up in your meal. This makes it safe and effective for all your cooking needs, whether it be frying, searing, baking, or sautéing.
As far as the construction is concerned, the forged base of the pan makes it both incredibly strong and durable as well as lightweight. This provides ultimate comfort when cooking while preventing common issues with weaker pans such as bending or warping.
Since it is also lightweight, no need to worry about it being too heavy to handle when transporting from stove to oven, or from your sink to the dishwasher. It is suited for use on all cook tops , whether your stove is glass ceramic, gas, halogen, or electric.
Pros:
- Diamond infused coating
- Four times better heat transfer compared to copper
- Five times harder than traditional non-stick coatings
Ten times longer lasting than the usual non-stick pans- Easy-clean up
- Strong forged base and warp resistant
- Safe in oven, broiler, and dishwasher up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Scratch resistant, even to metal utensils
- Non-toxic and free from PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
- Flared lip for easy food transfer out of the pan
Cons:
- Will not work with induction stove top
- Metal handle tends to get too hot
- Does not have a cover or lid
Choosing the Best Non-Stick Frying Pan
To give some brief background to non-ceramic non-stick coatings, we must look a little bit at the history behind Teflon. As the original PTFE coating, the brand name Teflon first became popular in the 1930’s as an industrial lubricant.
Then in the 1950’s it was applied to cooking pans. Since that time, it has become an extremely common and popular coating in the cooking industry. To this day, these types of coatings are widely accepted as the most durable and versatile of non-stick cooking vessels.
However, as studies began to show an increase in toxicity, the industry began to make some changes. This is why you rarely see the name “Teflon” referred to in these products, despite their similarity to the original Teflon coating.
Don’t let this scare you off, however, as many companies have taken steps to make their fluoropolymer coatings safer.
As long as you follow the instructions from the manufacturer, namely not exceeding the maximum safe temperature of the coating or using utensils that chip the coating, it is safe to use these coatings without risk of contaminating your food or the air with harmful chemicals.
Another piece of history from the PTFE backstory is the use of a chemical named PFOA. Used in the manufacturing process, PFOA used to be found in only trace amounts. These amounts were not enough to cause harm to the user of the pans, but by 2007 the EPA found concerning concentrations of the PFOA chemical in the bloodstream of the U.S. general population.
In response, the EPA and manufacturers have taken steps to eliminate the use of PFOA from the manufacturing process entirely.
By 2015, nearly all cooking products with fluoropolymer-based coatings have been certified PFOA free. This is also true of the products featured in this review.
It is unlikely that you have to worry about this chemical being present in any future purchases you make, but it is an interesting piece of history that is good to know. Agencies like the EPA are always striving toward protecting people and the environment, and this is one great example of that goal being met.
* Tramontina 80114/536DS Aluminum, Non-Stick
Backed by a manufacturing legacy that dates back over 100 years, Tramontina brand products have garnered an exceptional reputation in the world of professional cookware.
They are specifically designed to hold strong in the face of heavy-duty commercial use without failing.
This Tramontina 80114/536DS frying pan is no different, in that it provides you with a reliable and well-built pan to accomplish your cooking needs.
Whether you are scrambling, searing, frying, or sautéing, this restaurant grade instrument is up to the task.
Using high quality and commercial grade material, the pan’s construction consists of aluminium for quick and even heat distribution, coated with a non-stick interior for superior release of all kinds of foods. The stainless-steel handle is ideal for strength and maneuverability.
It even comes with a soft silicone handle cover for excellent non-slip grip and protection from high heat. In addition, users can choose to remove the silicone grip for certain uses, or simply for ease of cleaning after use. All parts of the pan are also durable and dishwasher safe so that you don’t have to wash or sanitize by hand.
The Tramontina 80114/536DS is also NSF certified cookware that is compatible with electric, gas, and ceramic glass cooking surfaces. With an operating temperature threshold of 400 degrees in the stove, it is hard to think of a recipe that this great frying pan would struggle to handle.
And thanks to a reinforced PFOA free non-stick coating, not only will this pan perform effortlessly in action, but it will also make clean up a breeze. Unlike outdated and dangerous Teflon coated pans, this product presents no health risks to the user under conditions of normal use.
To complement its stunning performance, Tramontina has also put in the extra effort to make this pan look appealing and professional as well.
The classic satin finish of the exterior, smooth black look of the coated interior, and bold red presence of the silicone grip are the perfect combination to draw eyes and look great in your kitchen.
Although it does not come with its own lid, it is of standard size and compatible with several universal lids that can be purchased separately.
Made and assembled in the United States, while using some imported components, the Tramontina brand strives to provide their customers with the highest level of quality. To demonstrate this commitment, each frying pan is backed by a lifetime warranty.
This means that if you use the frying pan according to the instructions and under normal conditions, damages or product failures are covered for the lifetime of the product. That said, there are certain rules to follow when using the cookware to avoid unnecessary hardships, damage, and wear.
As with any product, always read the use and care instructions thoroughly so that you have a good understanding of how to properly use the frying pan. A few important guidelines include avoiding the use of non-stick sprays, never using high-heat settings, not scraping the coating with metal utensils or cleaning devices, and always seasoning the cookware prior to its first use.
If you follow these rules and regularly maintain your frying pan, it will ensure that you have the best, longest lasting experience possible with your Tramontina non-stick frying pan
Pros:
Heavy Gauge Aluminum for quick, even heating- Can handle oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit or under
- Dishwasher safe for ease of cleaning
- Works with ceramic glass, electric, or glass stove tops
- Features PFOA-free reinforced non-stick coating
- Three strong rivets to reinforce stainless steel handle
- Removable Silicone Grip
- NSF Certifiation
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons:
- Not compatible with induction cooktops
- Glass stove tops may be damaged
- Some users experienced warp with the 14” pan
* Vesuvio Ceramic Coated Non-Stick Frying Pan
Hailing from its birth place of Italy, this Vesuvio Ceramic Coated Non-Stick Frying Pan lives up to the reputation of professional and gourmet Italian products. Specially featured in this Italian design is a multi-layered core for improved and even heat distribution.
The 3.7mm thick aluminum base lends itself to quick and even heating that reduces the necessity of using large amounts of oil.
Combined with the scratch resistant and durable ceramic coating, you get professional grade quality and commercially durable construction.
As you effortlessly sear, bake, sauté, fry, and more, you will not need to worry about exposing yourself or your family to harmful chemicals either.
This Vesuvio ceramic frying pan with a lid prides itself on using a safe and environmentally friendly group of materials. Made from natural volcanic materials, it ditches the health risks of Teflon based coatings.
In addition to being PTFE free, cadmium free, and free from lead-based coatings, the aluminum construction is 100% recyclable. The days of sacrificing your health and wellness for the ease and benefits of non-stick coating are over. Standing up to temperatures of 450 degrees, there is no concern of noxious fumes or degradation of the coating under normal cooking conditions.
To ensure that you are safe and sound from being burnt while using this pan, they include a conveniently designed silicone handle that keeps things cool to the touch. The included glass cover also has a silicone rim that seals effortlessly in order to trap in moisture for steaming of your favorite vegetables, roasts, and more.
You can then easily transfer the pan from your cooking surface into a conventional oven, just like the industry professionals from your favorite cooking shows. Designed with the ideal slope and flared upper edge, taking your creation from the frying pan to your plate has never been simpler.
While the non-porous and non-stick ceramic surface is easily washed and cared for by hand, the frying pan can also be safely cleaned in your home dishwasher.
In addition, it is designed to be virtually maintenance free, meaning that you don’t have to follow a strict regimen of oiling or special cleaning like other professional products.
This makes it a perfect choice for amateur and experienced cooks alike, as you don’t run the risk of ruining the pan by not knowing or neglecting to carry out special instructions.
Also, if you have any problems at any point within the first 365 days of use, the company offers a money back guarantee when you return the pan.
Pros:
- Tough, scratch resistant ceramic coating
- Includes a vented, glass lid with silicone seal
- Excellent Italian design with gourmet European quality
- Oven safe
- Dishwasher safe
- Consists of natural volcanic minerals
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic
- Free of PTFE, cadmium, and lead
- 100 % recyclable aluminum
- Protective silicone handle
- 1-year money back guarantee
Cons:
- Incompatible with induction style cooktops
- More expensive compared to similar products
- At 11” in diameter, slightly smaller than other frying pans
General Knowledge and Use of Non-Stick Coatings
No matter what non-stick frying pan you choose to use, there are a number of guidelines that you can follow to get the most out of your non-stick cookware.
While many newer products are designed to withstand much of the abuse that could destroy earlier models, it is always best to err on the side of caution so that your pan will last as long as possible. To help point you in the right direction, take a look at this collection of “do’s” and “don’ts” for non-stick cooking.
Do:
- Clean and dry completely after every use
- Hand-wash if at all possible. While many models are dishwasher safe, you can expect a longer life span if you avoid using your dishwasher with these pans
- Use mild cleaning detergents and scratch proof (non-metal) scouring pads
- Cook with small amounts of oil, preferably with a high smoke point
Store properly, avoid stacking with other pans (the bottom of one pan may damage the non-stick coating of another pan)- Prep or season your pan prior to use. While this is not required for all pans, it can increase the life span of your pan while providing extra flavor to your cooking
Don’t:
- Use metal utensils or cleaning equipment on your pan’s coating
- Subject your pan to drastic temperature change, such as putting under cold water immediately after being used to cook
- Use aerosol style non-stick sprays, as they tend to build up in your pan
- Store leftover food in your pan for long periods of time
- Expose pan to temperatures higher than what it’s rated for
- Soak your pan underwater for prolonged periods of time. This increases the risk of degradation. It is best to rinse/clean as soon as the pan has cooled down a bit
Cook with overly acidic ingredients. While today’s good quality pans are certainly built to withstand more, prolonged use with highly acidic foods can decrease the lifespan
In addition to following these guidelines, there is another important fact to consider about non-stick frying pans.
As you may have noted during our review of the products in this article, there are two main strains of non-stick cookware coatings. These two options are ceramic based, and fluoropolymer based (similar to Teflon) coatings.
Your priorities and cooking tendencies will affect which option is the right one for your situation. While both are great for non-stick cooking, each type lends itself to different benefits and drawbacks. Make sure you take a close look at each so that you can become familiar with these materials as they pertain to cooking.
Conclusion
No matter what your skill level or profession, today’s non-stick frying pan options allow you to cook like a pro! In the past, many traditional coatings were made with potentially harmful chemicals that were prone to leaching out of the pan and into your food, but no longer!
In this review, we have presented a line-up of the safest and best ceramic frying pan & non-stick frying pan purchases that you can make. Choose from these top-notch products and revolutionize your kitchen experience. You and the hungry mouths you feed will be more than happy that you did!
