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Best frying pans 2024: non-stick options ideal for Pancake Day

From classic stainless steel and tough cast iron to high-tech aluminium and heatproof ceramic, there’s a frying pan out there that is perfect for cooking up a storm in your kitchen. Ahead of Pancake day on Tuesday 13th February, here’s our pick of the best.

By Gemma Lumley | Last updated Feb 15, 2024

Selection of the best frying pans

Along with a decent wok and saucepan set, a good frying pan is a culinary staple that will work hard for you in the kitchen for years to come.

The best frying pan will make cooking your favourite food a joy, will be easy to wash and maintain, and will offer excellent value for money. From frying the perfect egg on a Sunday morning to searing a juicy steak on date night, these are the top frying pans to buy in 2024.

After extensively researching the views of domestic technology experts, professional chefs, and verified consumer reviewers, plus seeking the recommendations of our trusty Mumsnet users, we have found the best frying pans for versatility, longevity and an even spread of heat.

A frying pan should become an old friend in the kitchen, so we thought carefully about each pan's weight, ergonomics and durability. Our list features something for every requirement and budget too, from heatproof ceramic-coated and cast iron sets to super-light aluminium and large-capacity non-stick stainless steel.

1. Best frying pan overall: Scoville Neverstick Performance 30cm Frying Pan

Scoville frying pan

Price on writing: £30 | Buy now from Argos

Key specs

Material: Aluminium | Sizes available: 24cm, 28cm, 30 cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Yes - up to 260°C | Guarantee: Lifetime against defects

What we like

  • Easy to clean

  • Two handles for safe and stable handling

  • Effective non-stick

What we don’t like

  • Shouldn’t be used at high temperatures

What Mumsnet users say

“Scoville Neverstick are the best pans, baking trays and frying pans I have owned.” (Suggested Mumsnet user mrsdavegrohl)

Our verdict

The Scoville Neverstick 30cm Frying Pan offers fantastic non-stick performance. Cooking in it is a dream; you won’t need much oil, if any, and washing it up after your meal takes moments. The non-stick coating is super tough and PFOA-free, so that you can cook without worry.

We love the two-handle design, which is easy to manoeuvre, even when full of juicy sausages or sautéed veg. The riveted long handle feels sturdy, and as it is stainless steel, the pan can be placed in the oven to finish off any dishes that require it.

In addition, reviewers were impressed with the balance of durability and lightness. The 30cm has a generous capacity, which is excellent for big families. The initial investment in this fab frying pan is low; even better, Scoville pans come with a lifetime guarantee against faults.

Related: Discover the best knife sharpeners according to Mumsnetters

2. Best budget frying pan: Nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Frying Pans

Nuovva frying pan set

Price on writing: £25 | Buy now from Amazon 

Key specs

Material: Cast iron | Sizes available: 15cm, 20cm, 25cm  | Dishwasher safe?: No | Oven safe?: Yes | Guarantee: Not specified

What we like

  • Great value three-pack

  • Can be used outdoors on an open fire

  • Once seasoned and sealed they are very durable

What we don’t like

  • Need seasoning (a light coating of oil) after every use

  • The short handles get hot

  • Not dishwasher safe

What Mumsnet users say

“These are great, don't be put off by how cheap they are. They need a bit of seasoning and you must use metal spatulas on them, this makes them smoother and more non-stick.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user jimmyhill)

Our verdict

The Nuovva Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Frying Pan Set is brilliant value, and if you invest a little time and effort in their care, they have the potential to last forever. These tough pans need seasoning, coating with a light layer of oil after every use. After a few weeks, they will have a long-lasting, natural non-stick coating.

The handles are short and sturdy, a great feature as the pans are pretty heavy. However, do bear in mind they will get hot. We love the practical pouring spout and the fact that they can be used outdoors when camping; the smallest of the set, the 20cm, is particularly portable. The main downside is that they’re not dishwasher safe, but at this price, we’d be more than happy to wash them by hand!

3. Best frying pan for an induction hob: Tefal Jamie Oliver Cooks Direct 28cm Frying Pan

Tefal frying pan

Price on writing: £55 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 28cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Yes | Guarantee: Not specified

What we like

  • Even heat distribution

  • The spot glows to warn you the pan is too hot

  • Great non-stick performance

What we don’t like

  • Some reviewers found it too shallow for their needs

What Mumsnet users say

“I’ve had a few Tefal non-stick frying pans and they were very good.” (Brand suggested by Mumsnet user Geordieoldgirl)

Our verdict

The Tefal Jamie Oliver Cooks Direct Frying Pan is our best induction frying pan thanks to the smooth, flat base that will sit flush with your hob. The non-stick performance is fantastic; even with only a smidge of oil, your fried eggs will slide out of the pan. It’s easy to clean, too.

We’re impressed that it has a ThermoSpot indicator; it makes reaching and maintaining the optimum cooking temperature a cinch, a valuable feature for novice or nervous cooks. The handle is stainless steel, so it is ovenproof. It is also long enough to stay cool when cooking on the hob.

This stylish pan would be perfect for oven-to-table meals served on a heatproof chopping board, and a set of them would look fantastic hanging up in a modern kitchen. Reviewers were delighted with this pan's durability, though some found it a bit heavy.

4. Best ovenproof frying pan: OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Ovenproof Pan

OXO frying pan

Price on writing: £60 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Material: Pre-seasoned carbon steel | Sizes available: 30 cm | Dishwasher safe?: No | Oven safe?: Up to 315˚C  | Guarantee: 30-day Amazon guarantee

What we like

  • Can be used at higher temperatures

  • Silicone sleeve to prevent handle burns

  • Durable

What we don’t like

  • Hand wash only

  • Pricey

What Mumsnet users say

“OXO pans for me.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user BeyondMyWits)

Our verdict

From their can openers to their salt and pepper grinders, OXO is a kitchen brand Mumsnetters can't get enough of, and their Pre-Seasoned Carbon Pan has the covetable qualities of cast iron without the weight. It comes pre-seasoned to fry the perfect egg from the first use. However, a non-stick patina will be created with care and seasoning with oil after every use; as such, this is a pan that gets better with time.

Because there isn’t a non-stick coating to protect, you can cook at higher temperatures with this practical pan. It's excellent for use in the oven, and, even better, it has a removable silicone handle cover to protect your hands from the heat.

This fantastic pan makes cooking a joy, it's quick to reach temperature, and the heat distribution is excellent. Consumers report that it also makes it easier to cook on low settings, saving energy and sealing in nutrition.

5. Best stainless steel frying pan: Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Non-Stick Frying Pan

Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Non-Stick Frying Pan

Price on writing: £159 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 28cm, 30cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Yes | Guarantee: Lifetime guarantee against defects

What we like

  • Two handles

  • Non-spill pouring lip

  • Large capacity

What we don’t like

  • Expensive

What Mumsnet users say

“Le Creuset non-stick pans are excellent - mine has been used virtually everyday for about four years and is still ok (I put it in the dishwasher too).” (Recommended by Mumsnet user BeginningBridge)

Our verdict

Le Creuset is a premium kitchen brand, so this frying pan is expensive. We do, however, think it is worth the extra cost. The 3-Ply Non-Stick Stainless Steel Frying pan is robust, with a sturdy riveted handle and tough non-stick coating. There is an uncoated version available for £124 too.

We love the look of this elegant frying pan; it’s modern and stylish and would look lovely hanging from a rack or when presenting a show-stopping dish at a dinner party. It has a large capacity too, so you can do more than frying in it and feed a big family.

The anti-spill pouring lip is a brilliantly practical feature, and the double-handled design is helpful if you struggle with the weight of the pan and its contents. That said, it is made from relatively lightweight stainless steel.

Related: The best kitchen scales for accuracy, as recommended by Mumsnet users

6. Best frying pan for eggs: Circulon Style Hard-Anodised Aluminium Non-Stick 25cm Frying Pan

Circulon frying pan

Price on writing: £65 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

Material: Hard anodised aluminium | Sizes available: 25cm and 28cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Yes to 260°C | Guarantee: Lifetime guarantee for defects

What we like

  • Lightweight

  • Ergonomic handle

  • Can also be used as a small wok

What we don’t like

  • The handle gets very hot - an oven glove is required

What Mumsnet users say

“I highly recommend Circulon.” (Brand suggested by Mumsnet user KatyPerrysMustang)

Our verdict

The Circulon Anodised Non-Stick Aluminium Frying Pan is ideal for cooking eggs without needing oil; it is also a good shape to serve as a small wok. The reliable non-stick PFOA-free coating also makes cleaning easy; warm water and a soft cloth will do the trick.

Reviewers enjoyed using this pan for everyday cooking. It is lightweight, even when full of perfectly cooked food, and the ergonomic riveted handle feels sturdy and makes moving it around the hob and kitchen easy on the wrists.

Circulon pans are at a higher price point than some, but they are high quality, thoughtfully designed, and have a lifetime guarantee against defects.

7. Best non-stick frying pan: Anolon X SearTech Aluminium Non Stick 25cm Frying Pan

Anolon frying pan

Price on writing: £110 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

Material: Aluminium | Sizes available: 21cm, 25cm, 30cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Yes up to 260°C | Guarantee: Lifetime guarantee against defects

What we like

  • Great for searing

  • Highly durable - can be used with metal utensils

  • Impressive non-stick technology

What we don’t like

  • Expensive

What Mumsnet users say

“I've got Anolon ones that have lasted for decades but I'm careful with them.” (Brand loved by Mumsnet user chanjer)

Our verdict

The Anolon X SearTech Non-Stick Frying Pan is brilliant for serious home cooks. It reaches temperature quickly, has exceptional heat distribution and features technology that combines the fat from meat and optimum heat to create a mouth-watering caramelisation.

These practical pans have a robust PFOA-free non-stick coating. They can be washed in the dishwasher, though they should be easy enough to hand wash, and unusually, they are suitable for use with metal utensils.

If you have an induction hob, Anolon frying pans are great, as the completely flat base will sit completely flush with the hob for maximum heat transfer. It is one of the pricier options out there, however.

Related: The best baking trays and roasting tins for your kitchen

8. Best ergonomically designed frying pan: Stellar Rocktanium 20cm Frying Pan

Price on writing: £28 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Material: Stainless steel, titanium, ceramic | Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 26cm, 28cm, 30cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Ovenproof up to 240℃ | Guarantee: 10-year defect guarantee

What we like

  • Compact size - great when cooking for one

  • Lightweight

  • Impressive heat distribution

What we don’t like

  • Some reviewers struggled to reach a high heat on an induction hob

Our verdict

The Stellar Rocktanium 20cm Frying Pan is excellent value and a practical size, especially if you’re cooking for one or don’t have much storage space. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to use, and the curve means that, even though it is stainless steel and ovenproof, it doesn’t get too hot to hold. It also has a hanging hook and is riveted on, so it will never wobble.

This durable pan has a PFOA-free non-stick coating which combines the heat-conducting properties of stainless steel, ceramic's heatproof nature and titanium's strength. It can be washed in the dishwasher, though you shouldn't need to, as it is easy to clean.

The manufacturers suggest these pans can be used on all types of hob; however, some consumers have reported they won’t reach a high heat on an induction hob.

9. Best ceramic frying pan: GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Anodised Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan

Green Pan frying pan

Price on writing: £51 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Material: Stainless steel, aluminium, ceramic | Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 26cm, 28cm, 30cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Oven safe up to 315°C | Guarantee: Lifetime guarantee against defects

What we like

  • Can be used at very high temperatures

  • Ceramic is a ‘healthy’ alternative to Teflon

  • Easy to clean

What we don’t like

  • Sensitive to use with metal utensils

Our verdict

If you’re looking for a non-stick pan without a Teflon-based coating, ceramic is the way to go, and the GreenPan Valencia Frying Pan is a fantastic choice. It has impressive non-stick properties but can be used at a higher temperature without worries about the surface flaking or releasing toxic fumes.

The Valencia is quick and easy to hand wash, but it can be popped in the dishwasher if needed. These pans are high quality and feel sturdy; they have a riveted handle and are nicely weighty. However, you must avoid using metal utensils as they can scratch the surface.

The Green Pan Valencia is the ideal frying pan if you like finishing your recipes in the oven. It is ovenproof to over 300 degrees; just remember that the stainless steel handle will get very hot, so use a thick oven glove or mitt.

10. Best large capacity frying pan: Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK 30cm Frying Pan

Ninja frying pan

Price on writing: £52 | Buy now from Amazon 

Key specs

Material: Anodised aluminium | Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 28cm, 30cm | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Oven safe?: Yes - up to 260°C | Guarantee: 10-year inc the non-stick coating when used according to manufacturer's guidelines

What we like

  • Impressive non-stick capability

  • Even heat distribution

  • Durable when used according to instructions

What we don’t like

  • Heavier than the Ninja Essentials range

Our verdict

The Ninja NeverStick 30cm Frying Pan is the perfect size for big families and home cooks who love to throw dinner parties. According to tests, the non-stick coating is 20x stronger than standard non-stick pans, so it should last for many years of everyday use.

Reviewers report that this pan is quite heavy as it is the largest in the range. However, the short, riveted handle makes it easier to pick up. Remember, it will be hot to the touch after cooking on high heat though.

Creating everyday meals and show-stopping dishes is a dream with this pan. The heat kicks in fast and is even across the entire pan; there are no hot spots to spoil the evenness of the cook. We love that these pans come in a wide range of sizes, so you can buy the perfect one for your needs or buy them all and create a stylish display.

Related: The best cutlery sets for your kitchen

How to choose the best non-stick frying pan

Here’s what you need to consider before making your decision:

  • Size: Frying pans come in various sizes, usually 20cm, 24cm, 28cm and 30 cm. If you cook for a large family, the bigger, the better. However, if you only need a pan to fry the occasional egg, there’s little point investing money and cupboard space in a large pan.

  • Material: Frying pans can be made from cast iron, stainless steel, aluminium, anodised aluminium, copper and carbon steel. Each material has its pros and cons. Cast iron is heavy and needs seasoning to be non-stick but will last you a lifetime, whereas aluminium is lightweight, works well with a Teflon or ceramic coating and can be used on an induction hob.

  • Coated or not: A non-stick coating means your pan will be easy to use from day one but needs care to maintain its effectiveness. It will also need replacing after a few years of continuous use. A non-coated cast iron pan needs ‘seasoning’ (coated with a light layer of oil after every use), but it is easy to look after and will last forever.

  • Weight: A heavy pan full of bacon and sausages can be challenging to handle, especially if you have mobility or joint issues. Check the weight of your potential purchase and note that aluminium and stainless steel are lighter than cast iron and anodised materials.

  • Handle: An ergonomically shaped handle that doesn’t conduct heat is ideal. The handle must be ovenproof if you intend to finish off dishes in the oven.

  • Budget: A frying pan with a high-tech non-stick coating can be well over £100. If you’re on a budget, look at cast iron frying pan sets as they are much cheaper. They may take a while to build up a natural non-stick coating, but they will last for many years.

  • Guarantee: Many manufacturers offer extended warranties. However, these will depend on you following the care instructions to the letter. If you have put your pan in the dishwasher or used metal utensils, the guarantee will be null and void.

What’s the best material for a frying pan?

The best frying pan material depends on what you plan to use it for. Stainless steel pans are robust and lightweight; cast iron holds heat beautifully and lasts for years. However, it takes time to develop a non-stick surface, and a frying pan with a ceramic coating can be used at super-high temperatures without damage.

How do you maintain non-stick coating on a pan?

“They do get damaged if they get put in the dishwasher instead of being hand washed.” - A warning from Mumsnet user Geordieoldgirl

“Don't use washing up liquid or abrasive sponges/wire wool (looking at you ex) or metal utensils in the pans. I put some water in the base of the pan, let it simmer to soften any burned bits and wipe it clean with a cloth or kitchen roll.” - Advice from Mumsnet user Sparklfairy

The non-stick coating on a frying pan needs to be treated with care; otherwise, it will degrade quickly. Some non-stick frying pans can be washed in the dishwasher; this would be disastrous for some, so check the instructions very carefully. If you're unsure, always opt to hand wash with a gentle detergent and soft sponge; it's better to be safe than sorry, especially when you're dealing with a pan that can cost over £100!

Cooking with the correct utensils is also essential to how long the non-stick coating will last. Wooden or silicone spoons and spatulas won’t scratch your pan like metal cooking tools will. Once the non-stick coating starts to flake and become patchy, your food will begin to stick, so it’s essential you take proper care of your new pan.

Is it safe to use non-stick cookware?

For decades, non-stick cookware had a Teflon coating (polytetrafluoroethylene - PTFE). This coating was made with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) a chemical that has been linked to health problems. Modern Teflon is now PFOA-free and it is safe to use, though you do have to stick to usage guidelines.

That said, some people don’t like the idea of Teflon at all, as it can be damaged when it is exposed to high temperatures (above 260˚C). Because of this, many people prefer ceramic-based non-stick technology such as Green Pan as it is safe to use on very high heat. If you are using Teflon pans and trays, you can see the safety information from the brand here.

How we chose the best non-stick frying pans

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users

Mumsnet users love cooking for their families and friends and have lots of opinions on the best tools for the job. So, the first stop on our journey to find the best frying pans was the Mumsnet user forums.

We sought out their trusted opinions and recommendations. It was vital for us to know what they rated and used in their own homes. We also took note of the products they felt could have been better value, were poorly made and were ineffective.

Expert opinions

Next, we scrutinised the reviews and feedback from trusted food technology industry experts. We want to be sure that the products we recommend are fit for purpose, so we focused on award-winning frying pans and those well thought of by home economists, chefs and food writers.

Authentic consumer reviews

Finally, in our definitive list of the best frying pans available in the UK, we investigated comprehensive customer reviews on retailer websites such as Amazon, John Lewis and Partners and Argos. We wanted to take into account a wide range of consumer experiences.

About the author

Gemma Lumley is a Content Writer for Mumsnet; she writes consumer, home and lifestyle articles and specialises in product round-ups and reviews.

With many years of experience as a content and copywriter for her family business Urban Media Publishing, Gemma has written articles and blogs on travel, the outdoor industry, parenting and finance.

Finding the products that will make parents' lives easier is important to Gemma. She loves the research and detective work that goes into our best buy lists.

Gemma is a mum of two grown-up children, has two dogs and a tortoise. Alongside her writing, she spent many years as a home and travel expert and breastfeeding counsellor at a leading nursery retailer.

When she isn’t writing in-depth product reviews, Gemma loves to hike and enjoy the great outdoors.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust, and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.

Transparency is crucial to us, so we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones our writers recommend to their friends and family.

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