Stainless steel is an alloy of multiple metals like iron, nickel, and chromium, all of which contribute different characteristics to create a stronger, higher-performance material. You can also find pans labeled “stainless clad,” which are made from several layers—or ply—of different metals and alloys bonded together for optimized heat conduction and distribution. Our 5-Ply Stainless Clad features five layers of four different metals, resulting in an incredibly durable, corrosion- and rust-resistant pan.

The benefit of a French skillet is that it is ideal for frying large quantities of food or making stews and sauces that require simmering. Its higher straight sides make it easier to cook with more liquid, while its broader base allows for even heat distribution. French skillets are versatile and can be used for various cooking tasks.

Round Cast Iron Griddle Pan

Griddle and Grill Pan Applications: These cooking tools are versatile, allowing for the preparation of a wide range of dishes, including pancakes, eggs, grilled sandwiches, seared meats, and vegetables. The ridged surface of grill pans creates attractive grill marks and allows excess fat to drain away, while griddles provide a flat surface for even cooking.

While it is also rare for skillets to come with a lid, you’ll certainly see it more often than you would on a frypan. The lid is also typically fully opaque so you won’t be able to monitor your cooking as easily. But it sure helps with slow-cooking and braising dishes.

Saute pans have higher sidewalls than frying pans, which makes them better suited for cooking foods in more liquids without the risk of the liquids spilling over. A frying pan is ideal for shallow frying meats and vegetables with very little liquid. Despite its name, many chefs prefer sauteing foods in a frying pan over a saute pan because its sloped sides make it easier to toss foods.

Types of Dutch Ovens:

However, stainless steel frying pans can be more expensive than other types of pans, and they may not retain heat as well as other materials. They can also be prone to warping if not handled correctly.

6 – Carbon-Steel Frying Pans

While they both look almost identical, frypans and skillets each have their own roles to play in the kitchen. Frypans are best used for foods that require lower heat such as eggs, pancakes, and the ever delicate fish. This is because the frypan’s curved edge makes it easier to maneuver the ingredients as you cook.

Culinary Versatility: Enamel cookware, such as potjie pots, is suitable for preparing a wide range of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to slow-cooked meats and flavorful curries. Its even heat distribution and non-stick properties make it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Sure, you could flip a batch of pancakes in a Saute Pan and you could simmer a shallow sauce in a frying pan, but why would you when there's a pan that's meant for the job? Both pieces of cookware are quite versatile and capable of handling several cooking methods. Their key differences, however, will help you choose which one is right for your recipe.

The Differences Between Skillets and Pans