Best Stainless Steel Electric Skillet

Electric skillets have dramatically changed the way we cook and eat over the years. Still, it has been one of the most underrated kitchen appliances. But even then, the best stainless steel electric skillet comes in handy in many emergencies.

Stainless steel electric skillets are not only useful when you are out on a camping trip. They’re essential for those who live in RVs, dorms, tiny homes, or are tired of using burners. Also, it’s a flexible solution when you don’t have access to a stove.

From frying the morning eggs to browning meats, the uses of an electric skillet go on and on. It can be called a portable kitchen workhorse that lasts for years. However, electric skillets may not be the first preference for many chefs.

The reason is that handling an electric skillet is far different from normal skillets. It involves the use of electricity. Actually, you’ll sometimes love it and again hate it at times. But once you learn to use it correctly, you are definitely going to love it.

Best Stainless Steel Electric Skillet Comparison Table

Best Stainless Steel Electric Skillets Reviews

When it comes to electric cookware, you should get what you pay for. However, there are different electric skillets from a range of brands. Besides, electric skillets have many unique features that easily confuse you.

Hence, to make sure you get what you pay for, we’ve researched the available brands thoroughly. Finally, we’ve assembled the 7 best stainless steel electric skillets suitable for any cooking style. Take a look.

1. Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Foldaway Skillet

Presto 06857 16-inch electric foldaway skillet is a savior in the kitchen. It’s a great choice with ample cooking space. You can fry up a big batch of chili or a whole mess of hash browns.

This slim and affordable design covers all your cooking needs, including fries, grills, roasts, stews, and bakes. The 16-inch base and high sidewalls provide added cooking and serving capacity.

The skillet pan features a heavy cast aluminum base featuring a deluxe nonstick surface. At one corner, there is a built-in spout for pouring liquids. It also can be used as a spoon and spatula holder while cooking and serving.

Furthermore, the electric skillet features stay-cool handles. These can be folded down to detach the skillet pan from the base. The best part is storing both the handles and bottom in the skillet for compact storage.

The tempered glass cover lets you see what’s inside while cooking. The skillet pan and lid are dishwasher safe, but you need to remove the heat control. Above all, you can use it as a buffet-server with the keep warm option on.

What We Liked:

  • Foldable and slim design allows easy storage
  • Ample cooking capacity
  • Dishwasher safe
  • High wattage so low cooking time

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Preheating takes time
  • It may not fit into many kitchen cupboards

2. Dash 14-inch Electric Skillet + Hot Oven Cooker

Dash 14-inch electric skillet costs less than $50, but it has a large capacity and heats rapidly. The round shape fits chicken things, pancakes, burgers, and similar rounded recipes. Besides, its basic design and setup make it ideal for families.

The 14-inch cooking surface and 25-inch depth can make meals for approximately 6 people. The best feature of this skillet is its rapid heat capability in less time. It can quickly heat up to 450oF.

The skillet pan features TruGlide PFOA-free nonstick surface. It allows for even cooking for consistent results and makes cleaning a breeze. Besides, the unit includes a dial control that plugs into the back.

Then, the cool-touch handle allows safer and easier handling during and after use. The lid has a silicone ring that forms a tight seal. Each part of the skillet is detachable, and the setup takes only five minutes.

What We Liked:

  • Large cooking capacity
  • Fast preheating
  • Simple and lightweight design
  • Easy storage

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Not dishwasher safe

3. De’Longhi 16″ X 12″ Electric Skillet

De’Longhi is the first preference of fried chicken lovers. Yes, it does a great job of cooking a large batch of fried chicken in a few minutes. Unlike other electric skillets, it has an embedded heating element that allows the most efficient and even cooking.

Also, cooking takes the shortest time than others. The skillet comes with a large 16-inch nonstick cooking surface. You can easily make a meal for your large family. The die-cast aluminum body ensures it doesn’t wear off early.

Moreover, the skillet includes a tempered glass lid with a locking feature. It keeps the food warm for longer when cooked. However, each part in the skillet is dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning.

What We Liked:

  • Adjustable steam vent holes
  • Embedded skillet base ensures even heat distribution
  • Easy to clean
  • Large cooking capacity

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Temperature control is either full on or fulls off

4. Black & Decker Electric Skillet

Black & Decker is a reliable name for manufacturing the best-quality electric tools. Their electric skillet is no exception. The Black & Decker SK1215BC electric skillet has a large cooking area and deep interior.

This large stainless steel electric skillet is perfect for making healthy meals for the whole family. The quick-release variable temperature control allows precise temperature for every meal. The temperature ranges from keeping warm to 400oF.

It releases quickly for table serving and cleaning. Moreover, the pan-tilt leg allows you to remove excess fat from whatever you are cooking. The durable nonstick surface allows easy clean-up.

Nonetheless, the base is cool-touch, and so are the serving handles. The handles offer a sure-handed grip. Besides, the tempered glass lid lets you view cooking progress. All in all, it’s a great kitchen tool to have.

What We Liked:

  • Even and fast heating
  • Generous cooking capacity
  • Removable variable temperature control
  • Dishwasher safe base

What We Didn’t Like:

  • It doesn’t work as a fryer

5. Cuisinart CSK-150 1500-Watt Nonstick Oval Electric Skillet

The next on the list is a stainless steel electric skillet without non stick coating. The Cuisinart CSK-150 electric skillet may be more expensive than most market models. However, it is worth it as the skillet gives superior performance.

The brushed stainless steel finish makes it elegant and allows for healthy cooking. Besides the brushed stainless, the oval shape makes it functional as a buffet server.

The skillet pan is large enough to make eight hamburgers at once. The temperature control dial comes with an indicator light. It allows adjusting from warm to 450oF. In the warm setting, the skillet maintains a steady temperature.

The tempered glass covers and skillet pan includes stainless steel rim and handles. These cool-touch handles ensure easy handling during cooking and safe transport after.

What We Liked:

  • Safe and nontoxic cooking surface
  • Best for simmering
  • Ample cooking surface
  • Sleek design

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Lid handles tend to get hot easily
  • Quite expensive

6. Aroma Housewares AFP-1600S Gourmet Series Stainless Steel Electric Skillet

Aroma Housewares combines classic cookware style and electric convenience in this electric skillet. This Gourmet Series AFP-1600S electric skillet is made of durable stainless steel.

It’s a multi-tasking electric skillet that can brown, braise, simmer, stir fry, and grill. You can use it for your everyday meal preparation. The temperature in the adjustable temperature control ranges from 225oF to 425oF.

You can easily adjust the knob for different cooking styles. Indicator light helps you know when the skillet is heated to your desired temperature. Above all, the impact-bonded base ensures even heating for superior results.

What We Liked:

  • Well-constructed and durable design
  • Variable temperature control with an indicator light
  • Manual comes with some recipes
  • Elegant design

What We Didn’t Like:

  • The lid handle gets hot easily
  • Not dishwasher-safe

7. Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert 1350-Watt Electric Skillet

Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert is relatively smaller than other units. However, it’s a good choice for small families. It’s a multi-functional skillet with a deep dish inner pan, a flat plate, and a vented steamer.

The deep-dish inner pan is suitable for cooking any soup-based food. On the other hand, a flat plate is ideal for frying eggs, steaks, seafood, and grilling. The flat plate is equipped with a titanium-ceramic nonstick-coated cooking surface.

It also comes with a vented steamer to steam vegetables, buns, and more. You can adjust the temperature for different cooking styles and recipes. Moreover, the stay-cool handles make the removal of the cooking pan easier.

The tempered glass lid allows you to watch the food while you cook. You can disassemble each part for ease of cleaning. The best part of the skillet is you can use it directly on the stovetop burners.

What We Liked:

  • Multi-functional 3-in-1 design
  • You can use it on the stovetop
  • It allows tabletop cooking
  • Stay-cool handles

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Somewhat pricey for the size
  • Small capacity

Why Stainless Steel Electric Skillets?

Traditionally, cast iron was the only material used to make skillets. Cast iron was chosen for its durability and even heat distribution as well. When used for some time, all that oil and residue accumulates in the bottom.

Over time, it develops a naturally nonstick surface. Chefs call it a seasoned pan. Lately, these seasoned cast iron skillets are used mainly by chefs than ordinary households. Instead, stainless steel electric frying pan or skillet comes in handy.

Stainless electric skillet has thermostatic controls, which offer precise temperature for cooking. It will also relieve you of the worry of whether the stove temperature is sufficient for frying chicken breasts.

Stainless steel is a good material for electric skillets. It conducts heat well at high temperatures. Besides, stainless steel is healthy and won’t leach harmful chemicals into food or react with the food.

Stainless steel skillets are low maintenance as well. Moreover, the stainless electric frying pan is also helpful in preparing a quick meal or warming cold dishes. It also works as a standby pan when cooking for a large group.

A small electric skillets stainless steel is life-saver for people living in a small apartment. In most small apartments, there has barely any supplies for gas-fueled stoves. So just plug the stainless steel electric skillet in an outlet and start cooking.

How Does a Stainless Steel Electric Skillet Differ from a Stainless Steel Frying Pan?

Though both are made of stainless steel, there is still a difference in the quality of the material. Both have the same function and features. However, electric skillets are made of material that will take care of the skillet.

Electric skillets function more or less like a frying pan and an oven together. These are connected to an outlet that will heat the skillet. The temperature of the skillet is controlled through a thermostat.

Another considerable difference between a stainless steel electric skillet and a frying pan is the nonstick qualities. Most electric skillets include a nonstick surface of either Teflon or ceramic. Conversely, stainless steel frying pans don’t have a nonstick surface.

Hence, you will need to use oil or butter in the pan to avoid sticking. Due to the sticking issue, stainless steel pans are challenging to clean. Nonetheless, stainless steel electric skillets can withstand more heat than other materials.

It makes them more durable and great for high-heat cooking like browning, stir-frying, or seasoning. The best part is using metal utensils with a heavy-duty stainless steel electric skillet. There is no fear of scratching.

What to Consider Before Buying a Stainless Steel Electric Frying Pan?

While buying a Cookware, it is difficult to understand what’s best for you. The suitable for you is what works best for you. Below are some questions that will help you know the best fit for you.

What is the size of your kitchen?

The size of your kitchen determines which size electric skillet you need to buy. Measure the countertop and cupboard space in your kitchen. Then, pick a size of electric skillet that’s appropriate for your kitchen space.

What style do you prefer to cook in?

If your cupboard is full of many pots and pans, an electric skillet will not be handy for you. Actually, you don’t need an electric skillet. But if you often make simple meals, buying an electric skillet is the best decision. Thus you can even save money and simplify your kitchen.

Do you prefer stainless steel or a nonstick cooking surface?

Electric skillets are best in terms of their nonstick attributes. Hence most electric skillet includes a nonstick surface for a more effortless cooking experience. But the nonstick surface often has a Teflon coating which raises health concerns.

Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a healthy alternative. It will not leach harmful chemicals into food or not react to acidic food. However, some skillet includes stainless steel exterior and a nonstick interior.

As you may know, stainless steel is a somewhat poor conductor. If stainless steel is used in the exterior and handles, you can easily handle the skillet. There is no risk of getting burned by the heat of the skillet.

In what temperature range do you like to cook?

The most meal requires around 400oF to get cooked. Usually, electric skillets can quickly cook any meal within that range. But if you want to use the skillet to fry chicken, you need a skillet with a minimum of 450oF range.

How reliable is the manufacturer’s customer service?

Sometimes it may be that you have received a defective product. So you need a quick replacement but without spending a penny. Here a reliable manufacturer must be your first priority. Choose a brand that values customer satisfaction.

The Best Stainless Steel Electric Skillet Buyer’s Guide

A stainless electric skillet is a great tool to have in the kitchen. It gives you versatility in the cooking style as well as ease of use. But when it comes to buying an electric skillet, you may be overwhelmed with all the available choices.

Besides, an electric skillet is not only cookware but also a technical device. Note that your purchase can either last for a longer time or just a few days. Hence we are here to help you make an ideal purchase.

You get to pay attention to the following features and then decide.

Size

Stainless steel electric skillets are available in several sizes, ranging from 12 to 16-inches. The 16-inch stainless steel electric skillet is preferable for cooking large amounts of food.

If you cook for a larger family, you must choose a larger stainless steel electric skillet. Although not required for a larger family, it is always better to buy a larger size for some more dollars. In case you may need it sometime.

The only drawback of having a larger skillet is, it simmers liquid quicker due to its larger surface. In that case, you may need to cut down the simmering time or keep an eye on liquid. We found a 12-inch electric skillet best for most recipes.

Materials

You might be wondering; why do I need to consider the material when buying a stainless steel skillet. So for your information, stainless steel comes in different grades. The best stainless steel electric skillet is typically 18/10 (304 grade).

It is the top-quality industry standard which means they are made of 18% chromium and 10% nickel. There are also other metals included in these skillets. These electric skillets are long-lasting.

Shape

An electric skillet can be of three shapes, such as circular/oval, rectangular, and square. The shape of the skillet you need depends on your family’s needs. For smaller families, square or smaller oval shape skillets are better.

While for larger families, it is wise to choose a rectangular shape. However, the circular ones would be better for making pizza or pancakes. Chefs counter round electric skillet is one such example.

Ease of Use

An electric skillet will have a plug-and-play design. You just need to plug it in an outlet, and it is ready to cook your favorite meals. The skillets will work as a regular frying pan once they reach your preferred temperature. Thus, it makes your cooking easier.

Design

Are you one of those who serve in the same pan where they cook? If so, you will likely want it to look presentable. So make sure to choose one that looks nice and stylish. Also, consider other features like color, steam vents, pouring sprouts, etc.

Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the concerns of using electric skillets is how to clean them? Well, it is as easy to clean as other cookware. Most electric skillet models are dishwasher-friendly, while some are not. You can wash those units with warm soapy water.

Temperature Control

This feature is what makes an electric skillet different from a regular frying pan. It is not directly heated over the stove. Instead, the heat in the electric skillet is controlled through a dial or temperature control. This dial has a temperature range like ‘Low,’ ‘Medium,’ and ‘High.’

Stainless Steel Electric Skillet with Lid

A stainless steel electric skillet either includes a glass lid or stainless steel lid. The stainless steel lid has a tremendous moisture-locking ability. Conversely, a glass lid allows you to see the food while you cook while locking the taste of the food. Glass lid also has steam vents that prevent the liquid from boiling over.

Handles

Handles of most electric skillets tend to get hotter rapidly. But there are also some models which include stay-cool handles. This feature comes in handy to keep your hand safe from the heat.

Versatility

Stainless steel electric skillets are incredibly versatile. This allows you to cook a range of food in different ways. You can use it to stir fry, grill, bake, sauté, and fry other foods.

Also, you can cook anywhere as it is pretty portable. No matter where you go, it’s an excellent tool to carry along with you. Just make sure you can plug it in an electric outlet.

FAQ

Is stainless steel skillet better?

Absolutely. In fact, professional cooks and chefs use stainless steel skillets at home as well as in restaurants. They prefer it because of its durability. Stainless steel skillets are almost indestructible. Also, it offers superior heat distribution.

How do you season a stainless steel electric skillet?

Seasoning is not mandatory in the case of stainless steel skillets. Still, many people season it to avoid food sticking. Also, it makes cleaning a breeze. Here is how you can season a stainless steel electric skillet.

  • Wash the skillet with a mild dish detergent and warm water. Rinse and then dry it properly.
  • Use a layer of oil to coat the interior of the pan.
  • Heat the skillet to medium heat using the temperature control.
  • After it starts to smoke lightly, turn off the heat.
  • Let it cool, and then wipe the extra oil with a paper towel. That’s it!

Can You fry in an electric skillet?

The internet is full of deep-frying recipes using an electric frypan stainless steel. You may be able to fry in an electric skillet successfully. But, we don’t recommend this practice. Electric skillets are wide and shallow.

If you put a large amount of oil, the oil can boil over and spatter. So it is a risky practice. Also, the skillet’s interior may not be able to withstand the high temperature of deep-frying.

Is stainless steel better than nonstick?

When it comes to health, stainless steel is definitely better than nonstick. Stainless steel is uncoated, so there is no risk of leaching harmful chemicals into food. Hence, stainless steel cookware is best for stir-frying, sautéing, and browning ingredients.

Final Words

Stainless steel electric skillets have become a staple in many kitchens with diverse applications. The best stainless steel electric skillet will allow cooking everyday meals with less effort and less energy.

From sautéing, baking, frying to browning, a wide range of cooking can be done with ease. Some electric skillets have more functions than others. We’ve reviewed a few such options above, which will add to your cooking experience.

One fact to mention, electric skillets has so many perks which one can cherish well. It comes in super handy in a hectic routine. However, it also demands a little extra care. Only then your electric skillet can ensure to be with you more.

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