Tired of juggling multiple pots and pans for every meal? Imagine whipping up a whole breakfast – eggs, bacon, and pancakes – all in one spot, with easy cleanup! That’s the magic an electric skillet can bring to your kitchen.
But with so many brands and features out there, picking the *right* electric skillet can feel like a puzzle. Do you need a super-hot one for searing steak? Or a non-stick surface for delicate fish? It’s easy to get lost in the details and end up with a skillet that doesn’t quite fit your needs.
In this post, we’ll cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a great electric skillet, looking at top-rated models that deliver on performance and value. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find your perfect kitchen sidekick.
Our Top 5 Rated Electric Skillet Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Electric Skillet Detailed Reviews
1. Elite Gourmet EG-6203# Extra Deep 16″x13″x3.2″ (10.5Qt.) Scratch Resistant
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to cook up a storm with the Elite Gourmet EG-6203# Extra Deep Electric Skillet! This big skillet is perfect for feeding your whole family. It’s 16 inches long, 13 inches wide, and over 3 inches deep, holding a whopping 10.5 quarts. You can cook pancakes, grilled cheese, or stir-fry veggies easily. The non-stick surface makes cleanup a breeze, and it even has a special spout to pour out extra grease. Plus, it comes with a glass lid to lock in all the yummy flavors.
What We Like:
- It’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup super easy after you remove the temperature control.
- The thick aluminum body won’t rust or warp, so it will last a long time.
- The marbleized honeycomb non-stick surface is tough and releases food easily without sticking or peeling.
- The scratch-resistant surface means you can cook without worrying about damaging it.
- It heats up quickly and evenly thanks to its special M-shaped heating element, preventing burnt spots.
- The adjustable temperature control lets you set the perfect heat from 200 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The clear glass lid lets you see your food as it cooks and keeps moisture locked in.
- The extra-large size is great for cooking big family meals.
- The easy-pour spout helps you drain off extra liquids.
- It’s safety tested and has a 1500-watt heating element for fast cooking.
- The splatter-proof walls and cool-touch handles keep you safe while cooking.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty and US-based customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the non-stick is durable, very sharp utensils could still potentially scratch the surface over time.
This electric skillet is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and versatility for family meals. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking experience.
2. Elite Gourmet EG6201 Extra Deep 12″x12″x3.2″ (7.5Qt.) Scratch Resistant Dishwasher Safe
Rating: 8.6/10
The Elite Gourmet EG6201 Electric Skillet is a versatile kitchen helper. Its large size and deep sides make it perfect for cooking family meals. You can make everything from pancakes to stir-fries. This skillet is designed for easy cooking and quick clean-up.
What We Like:
- It’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning after you take off the temperature control.
- The thick aluminum body won’t rust or warp.
- The marbleized non-stick surface is tough and won’t peel.
- Food releases easily, making cooking and cleaning simple.
- The scratch-resistant surface means you can cook without worry.
- It heats up fast and evenly thanks to the embedded heating element.
- You can set the temperature anywhere from 200-400°F to avoid burning food.
- The glass lid locks in flavor and moisture.
- It’s big enough (12″x12″x3.15″) to cook for 6-8 people.
- It’s ETL listed and safety tested with 1200 watts for home use.
- The splatter-proof walls and cool-touch handles add safety.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty and US-based customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the non-stick is durable, very sharp utensils could still potentially scratch it over time.
- The initial learning curve for precise temperature control might take a few uses for some cooks.
This electric skillet is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and excellent cooking results for busy households. It’s a solid choice for simplifying meal preparation.
3. Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet with Glass Cover
Rating: 8.6/10
The Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet is a super versatile kitchen tool. It can do so many things! You can roast, fry, grill, stew, and even bake with it. It’s great for making breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, it’s big enough to use when you have guests over.
What We Like:
- It’s a multi-tasker. You can cook almost anything in it.
- The glass cover has a cool handle, so it won’t burn your hand.
- It looks nice on the table as a buffet server.
- The 16-inch size and high sides give you lots of space for cooking and serving.
- The ceramic nonstick surface is safe because it’s PFAS free. It’s nonstick inside and out.
- The heat control is automatic. It keeps your food at the perfect temperature.
- The cast aluminum base is strong and won’t bend easily.
- You can clean it easily. Just take off the heat control and wash it.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is a bit bulky to store.
- Some users found the temperature dial a little tricky to get used to at first.
This electric skillet makes cooking and serving meals a breeze. It’s a fantastic addition for busy kitchens and entertaining.
4. Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Foldaway Skillet
Rating: 9.5/10
The Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Foldaway Skillet in Black is a kitchen game-changer. This versatile skillet does it all, from roasting and frying to stewing and baking. Its large 16-inch cooking surface with high sides means you can cook more food at once and even serve directly from it. Plus, it’s designed for easy cleaning and storage, making it a practical choice for any kitchen.
What We Like:
- It can roast, fry, grill, stew, bake, and make casseroles.
- The base detaches for easy cleaning and storage.
- Handles fold down, and the base fits inside the pan for compact storage.
- The big 16-inch pan with high sidewalls offers lots of cooking and serving space.
- It comes with a tempered glass cover that has a stay-cool handle.
- The skillet has a PFAS-free nonstick surface inside and out for easy cooking and cleaning.
- It works as a buffet server when you have guests.
- The ceramic nonstick surface means food won’t stick, and cleaning is a breeze.
- The Control Master heat control automatically keeps your food at the right temperature.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup a bit tricky.
- While it’s easy to clean, deep-seated stains might require a little extra scrubbing.
This Presto skillet offers incredible versatility and smart storage solutions. It’s a fantastic addition for anyone looking to simplify their cooking and entertaining.
5. BELLA Electric Skillet and Frying Pan with Glass Lid
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready for easier, more delicious meals with the BELLA Electric Skillet and Frying Pan. This versatile 12×12 inch pan, in a stylish copper finish, is designed to make cooking a breeze, from your morning eggs to a family dinner. Its nonstick surface and cool-touch handles mean you can cook safely and clean up quickly.
What We Like:
- It makes cooking super simple, from breakfast to dinner.
- You can roast, fry, steam, or even use it as a buffet server.
- The nonstick coating is extra tough, lasting 8 times longer than regular ones and cooking food faster.
- You can easily control the heat with a special dial, so your food won’t burn.
- Cleaning up is a snap because it’s fully washable and free from harmful chemicals like PTFE & PFOA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The power cord is not very long, which might limit where you can plug it in.
- While it’s dishwasher safe, some users found that the coating started to wear down after many washes.
This BELLA electric skillet is a fantastic tool for any kitchen, especially for families who want to cook a variety of meals with minimal fuss. It simplifies cooking and makes cleanup a joy.
Your Guide to the Perfect Electric Skillet
An electric skillet is a super helpful kitchen tool. It’s like a frying pan but with its own built-in heating element. This means you can cook almost anywhere with an outlet! They’re great for making breakfast, searing meat, or even baking a small cake. Let’s find out what makes a great electric skillet.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an electric skillet, keep these things in mind:
Size Matters
- Capacity: Think about how many people you usually cook for. Skillets come in different sizes, from small ones for one or two people to large ones that can feed a family. A 10-inch skillet is good for small meals, while a 14-inch or larger is better for bigger batches.
Temperature Control is Key
- Adjustable Thermostat: A good skillet lets you set the exact temperature you need. This is important for different types of cooking. You’ll want a wide range of temperatures, from low for keeping food warm to high for searing.
What’s it Made Of?
The materials used in an electric skillet can really change how it works and how long it lasts.
- Cookware Surface: Most electric skillets have a non-stick coating. This is awesome because food doesn’t stick, and cleanup is a breeze. Look for durable non-stick coatings that won’t scratch easily. Some higher-end models might have ceramic or cast iron surfaces, which are also great but can be heavier.
- Body Material: The outside of the skillet is usually made of metal, like aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum heats up quickly and evenly. Stainless steel is tough and lasts a long time.
What Makes a Skillet Great (or Not So Great)?
Little details can make a big difference in your cooking experience.
- Even Heating: The best skillets heat up evenly across the entire cooking surface. This stops some parts of your food from burning while others are still raw.
- Lid Quality: A good lid fits snugly. It helps trap heat and steam, which cooks food faster and keeps it moist. Look for lids with a handle that stays cool.
- Durability: A well-made skillet will last you for years. Check for sturdy construction and high-quality materials.
- Cord Length: Make sure the power cord is long enough to reach your outlet comfortably.
User Experience and Fun Ways to Use It
An electric skillet is super versatile!
- Easy Cooking: They’re perfect for beginners because the temperature is controlled for you. You can cook a whole meal in one pan!
- Breakfast Buddy: Make pancakes, eggs, and bacon all at once.
- One-Pan Dinners: Cook chicken and veggies, stir-fries, or even pasta dishes.
- Outdoor Adventures: Take it camping or tailgating for easy meals away from home.
- Serving: Many electric skillets can go right from the stove to the table, making serving easy and keeping food warm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Skillets
Q: What are the main benefits of using an electric skillet?
A: Electric skillets offer easy temperature control, even heating, and the ability to cook a variety of meals in one pan. They are also portable and great for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
Q: How do I clean an electric skillet?
A: Most electric skillets have a non-stick surface and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Make sure to unplug the skillet and let it cool completely before cleaning. Some are dishwasher safe, but it’s best to check the manual.
Q: Can I put metal utensils in an electric skillet?
A: It’s best to avoid metal utensils, especially on non-stick surfaces, as they can scratch the coating. Use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils instead.
Q: What kind of food can I cook in an electric skillet?
A: You can cook almost anything! This includes eggs, pancakes, bacon, burgers, chicken, fish, vegetables, stir-fries, and even some baked goods like cornbread.
Q: How important is the temperature control on an electric skillet?
A: Temperature control is very important. It allows you to cook food at the right heat level, preventing burning and ensuring even cooking. A skillet with a wide temperature range is more versatile.
Q: Are electric skillets energy efficient?
A: Electric skillets use electricity directly for heating. They are generally efficient for their size and purpose, especially when compared to heating up a large oven for a small meal.
Q: What is the difference between an electric skillet and a regular frying pan on the stove?
A: An electric skillet has its own heating element, so it doesn’t need a stove. This gives you more control over the temperature and allows you to cook in more places.
Q: How do I know if my electric skillet is heating evenly?
A: You can test this by placing a few drops of water on the surface. They should sizzle and evaporate at roughly the same rate across the pan. You can also try cooking thin items like crepes to see if they cook uniformly.
Q: Can I bake in an electric skillet?
A: Yes, many electric skillets can be used for baking small items like cakes, muffins, or cornbread. You’ll typically need to set the temperature and use the lid to trap heat.
Q: What should I do if my food is sticking to my electric skillet?
A: If food is sticking, first ensure the skillet is properly preheated. If you have a non-stick surface, it might be damaged or worn out. Using a little oil or butter can also help prevent sticking, even with non-stick surfaces.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!