
If you don’t have easy access to a stove top, an electric skillet could be the perfect alternative. Available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, this handy piece of kitchenware heats evenly – just like a regular skillet or frying pan – without an external source of heat. These skillets can be used to cook a huge array of foods. Everything from pancakes, to eggs, to pasta dishes can be whipped up in the pan, and many deep dish models can double up as a self-warming serving dish.
With so many uses, it should come as no surprise that scores of kitchenware companies have tried their hand at the electric skillet. To help you track down the perfect option for your kitchen, we’ve taken the time to compile this buying guide. Below, we run through 10 of the best electric skillets you can buy right now. To help keen cooks get the most out of their new device, we’ve also taken the time to answer some common questions about the electric skillet; what you can cook, how to care for your new appliance, and more.
The Best Electric Skillet
1
Presto Electric Foldaway Skillet
Founded way back in 1905, Presto have been making quality homeware for over 100 years. They’ve channelled this impressive expertise into the affordable and versatile Foldaway Skillet. Each 16 inch skillet is made from cast aluminum, known for being lightweight, and great for even heat distribution. Coated with a layer of non-stick protection, the skillet is easy to use, and even easier to clean.
The skillet also includes a tempered glass lid, so you can slow cook, boil, and steam to your heart’s content. Both pan and lid are dishwasher safe, for a quick and simple clean-up operation. A selection of nifty features set this skillet apart: its built-in pouring spout makes cooking with liquids safer, while stay-cool foldaway handles ensure compact storage if space is at a premium. The pouring spout can also be used to hold spoons or spatulas when it’s time to serve.
16 inch electric skillet
Adjustable temperature settings
Cast aluminum design
Tempered glass lid included
Safe and easy to use
- BrandPresto
- Model6857
- Weight8.85 pounds
Non-stick surface for easy cooking and cleaning
Large size can accommodate whatever you want to cook
Dishwasher safe
Pouring spout included
Foldaway handles for compact storage
Non-stick finish may not hold up to regular dishwasher cleaning
Analogue temperature control can take some getting used to
2
BELLA Electric Skillet
This Bella electric skillet has also earned a spot on our list. Equipped with a 1,200 Watt heating system, the appliance can reach temperatures between 300 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit, making it to cook virtually any dish. With its cast aluminum base and tempered glass lid, the skillet heats up evenly and holds its temperature well.
Meanwhile, a set of cool-touch handles make it easy to handle without running the risk of burns, and a unique ceramic based non-stick coating lasts for up to eight times longer than conventional Teflon. This slick surface also cooks food up to 30% faster, for fast and effective cooking. The skillet also boasts titanium reinforcement, offering unparalleled strength and resistance. For larger households, the appliance can also be had in a 12 by 16 inch version.
Multi-functional electric pan
Heats to a range of temperatures
Made from sturdy and conductive aluminum
Copper lining
- BrandBella
- Model14607
- Weight4.74 pounds
Ceramic non-stick coating cooks food 30% faster, and lasts 8 times longer, than Teflon
Easy to use: cool-touch handles and dishwasher safe
Reinforced with titanium
Easy to use
Some customers noticed hot spots due to heating element placement
Relatively bulky to store
3
Elite Platinum Non-stick Electric Skillet
If you’re searching for a heavy duty option, look no further than this cast aluminum electric skillet. With a deep, eight quart capacity, the appliance is ideal for serving the whole household a range of delicious meals. Equipped with a tempered glass lid, the pan locks moisture inside as you cook, too. This, along with a non-stick cooking surface, makes for perfectly cooked food every time.
For ease of use, the skillet also features a built-in easy-pour spout, allowing you to easily drain away excess juices. It’s quick, too – heating up in minutes through a unique ‘m’ shaped heating element. Unlike other options on the market, which typically feature a circular element, this shape encourages easy cooking. Adjustable temperature controls allow for temperatures ranging from 200 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. With spatter-resistant sides and cool-touch knobs and handles, the skillet is as safe to use as it is effective. When you’re done, both lid and pan can be popped in the dishwasher for a quick and easy clean-up.
Large heavy-duty electric skillet
Deep capacity
Aluminum base
- BrandElite Platinum
- ModelEG-6203
- Weight9.88 pounds
M’ shaped cooking element heats evenly
Large capacity is ideal for larger households
Non-stick coating
Dishwasher safe
Cool-touch handles and spatter-resistance sides for safety
Relatively high price point
Working out temperature control can be a steep learning curve
4
Copper Chef Deluxe Electric Skillet
The next electric frying pan to earn a spot on our list is this colorful offering from Copper Chef. The 16 inch skillet offers cooking enthusiasts a large cooking surface, and even heat distribution. Because it’s resistant to temperatures of up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit, the appliance can be used for extra-hot applications, such as sizzling stir-fries.
Thanks to a PTFE and PFOA-free non-stick coating, the pan is easy to cook with, and easy to clean. For safe and effective use, riveted handles ensure you can get a secure grip on your cooking. Meanwhile, a stainless steel induction plate makes for heat distribution that’s as even as possible. This helps ingredients to cook consistently, for delicious meals time after time. With its adjustable temperature gauge, any ingredient can be cooked to perfection.
16 inch electric skillet with variable temperature controls
Non-stick coating
Steel induction plate
- BrandCopper Chef
- Model16CC-Skillet
- Weight7.65 pounds
Durable non-stick coating makes for easy cooking and cleaning
Stainless steel induction plate allows even heating
Riveted handles for a secure grip
Resistant to very high temperatures
Hand wash only
Small numbers on temperature control dial
5
Aroma Housewares Electric Skillet
Amora have also earned themselves a spot on our list, with this three-in-one indoor grill. The versatile device is a great addition to any kitchen, acting as a grill, slow cooker, and food steamer in one handy package. Thanks to an adjustable temperature gauge, which can reach up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, you can cook a huge array of ingredients without worrying about burning.
For extra safe use, the pan features a cool-touch exterior, and tempered glass lid. When you’re done the appliance is dishwasher safe, for a quick and easy clean-up. With a four quart capacity, the pot is perfect for catering to two or three people, while a ridged grill surface provides an authentic barbeque flavor – even when it’s rainy or windy outside. Finally, a non-stick cooking surface helps clean-up.
3-in-1 electric skillet
Grill, slow cooker, and steamer in one handy appliance
Adjustable temperature gauge reaches up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit
Tempered glass lid included
- BrandAmora Housewares
- ModelASP-137
- Weight4 pounds
Cool-touch surface and sturdy lid for safe cooking
Non-stick cooking surface
Dishwasher safe for an easy clean-up
Ridged grill surface for authentic grilled taste
4 quart capacity may be too small for larger households
Grill function can be tricky to master
6
Tibek Electric Skillet Non Stick
This 12 inch electric skillet by Tibek is another culinary gem. With its non-stick surface and user friendly design, it’s a simple and effective way to cook simple, healthy meals for all the family. Featuring a cast aluminum body, and heat resistant handles, the appliance is durable and safe to use. Everything from steak to pasta can be whipped up in the deep pan.
Inside, a rounded heating element helps the skillet to maintain its temperature evely and continuously. With three heating levels to choose from, cooking different ingredients is simple. The skillet also features a lasting non-stick surface, so it’s easy to wipe clean after use. Because Tibek include a two year service warranty with each of their skillets, you can rest assured it’s built to last.
12 inch electric skillet with 3 temperature settings
Non-stick surfaces
Cast aluminum body
Maintains cooking temperature well
- BrandTibek
- ModelAMR50-226
- Weight5.85 pounds
Safe and easy to use thanks to cool-touch handles
Made from sturdy and durable materials
Easy to clean
2 year warranty included
Not dishwasher safe
Not suitable for deep-frying
7
DeLonghi Electric Skillet with Glass
For an effective yet budget-friendly electric skillet, look no further than this 16 inch design by De’Longhi. Thanks to an embedded heating element, the appliance guarantees fast and effective cooking that you can count on. Featuring a non-stick surface, the skillet is easy to use, and just as easy to clean.
You can cook just about anything, too – the inclusion of a tempered glass lid makes it easy to steam and boil ingredients, and adjustable steam vent holes allow cooks to achieve the perfect levels of moisture. For an easy clean-up, the skillet is also dishwasher safe. Thanks to its die cast aluminum body, the handy skillet is certainly built to last. Finally, a pair of cool touch handles make the pan safe to handle during use.
16 inch skillet with adjustable temperature settings
Non-stick surface
Tempered glass lid included
Made from die cast aluminum
- BrandDe’Longhi
- ModelBG45
- Weight8.89 pounds
Dishwasher safe for a quick and easy clean-up
Adjustable steam vents for versatile cooking functions
Cool-touch handles ensure safe, comfortable use
Quick and consistent cooking guaranteed
Some customers experienced hot spots in the pan’s centre
Louder to use than some models
8
NESCO Electric Skillet
NESCO’s eight inch electric skillet is the perfect cooking option for couples, student dorms, and RVs. Its compact and affordable design boasts a deep interior, which can accommodate plenty of different dishes, along with a non-stick coating and adjustable temperature controls. The skillet also includes a tempered glass lid, making it easy to steam and boil your dishes.
The skillet is also safe and easy to use – cool touch handles prevent accidental burns, while electric heating elements cook ingredients safely and effectively. The pan itself is constructed from die cast aluminum, known for its great conductivity and durability. This ensures that your food is evenly cooked, every time. Finally, the skillet’s lightweight build makes it easy to transport wherever it’s needed.
8 inch electric skillet with adjustable temperature
Compact and lightweight design
Skillet made from die cast aluminum
Tempered glass lid included
- BrandNESCO
- ModelES-08
- Weight3.5 pounds
Non-stick coating for ease of use
Durable and lightweight design
Ideal for travelling
Cooks food quickly and evenly
Only the lid is dishwasher safe
Lower Wattage than other models (800 W)
9
Zojirushi Gourmet d’Expert Electric Skillet
For something a tad more luxurious, you could try this ‘Gourmet’ electric skillet from Zojirushi. Their large, multifunctional skillet is ideal for hot pot dishes, but it can also be used for sauteing, grilling, and even steaming. Thanks to a series of adjustable temperature settings, it’s easy to find the perfect level of heat to cook all of your favorite dishes.
Although the pan itself heats up quickly, a pair of cool-touch handles make the pot easy to manoeuvre during use. This makes it easy to move the pan straight to your dining table, where its sleek design won’t look out of place among other serving dishes. Thanks to its ceramic and titanium non-stick cooking surface, the pan is incredibly easy to clean when you’re finished, too. To help budding cooks get started, the handy appliance includes a few tasty recipes you can make with your new skillet.
Large, multi-functional skillet
Adjustable temperature settings
Ideal for hotpots and stews
Non-stick surface
- BrandZojirushi
- ModelEP-PBC10HC
- Weight9 pounds
Durable design
Effective non-stick surface
Recipe booklet included
Easily adjustable temperature setting
Even cooking
Must be hand washed for best results
Higher price point than other models
10
Hamilton Beach Ceramic Skillet
If a good non-stick coating is at the top of your list of pan priorities, this deep dish ceramic skillet by Hamilton Beach could be the perfect option for you. The pan’s unique Durathon surface is not only PTFE and PFOA-free, it’s also four times more durable than traditional non-stick coatings. As well as being a power-house in the non-stick department, the handy skillet can cook just about anything.
Simply switch it on and select your temperature to sauté, fry, simmer, or braise in no time at all. At three inches in depth, the skillet is more than deep enough to accommodate all your classic favorites – from lasagna to eggs and bacon. Whatever you cook, cool-touch handles make it easy to bring to the table, while the impressive non-stick credentials we mentioned earlier make for an easy clean-up.
Large electric skillet with glass lid
Adjustable temperature controls
Ceramic based non-stick coating
Reaches temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
- BrandHamilton Beach
- Model38528R
- Weight7.6 pounds
Impressively durable non-stick coating
Ideal size for larger households
Suitable for cooking a wide range of dishes
Dishwasher safe for an easy clean-up
Cool touch handles for safe usage
A little slow to heat up
11
Cuisinart Oval Electric Skillet
Cuisinart have also earned themselves a spot on our list with this durable stainless steel electric skillet. The appliance provides a 12 by 15 inch cooking surface, in a deep pan design that’s ideal for hotpots, stews, and pasta dishes. Whatever’s cooking, you can rest assured you’ll find the perfect temperature, thanks to an easily adjustable thermostat mounted on the side of the skillet.
Each appliance comes with its own glass lid, and cool-touch handles. This makes it easy to move the dish safely, and also helps you to lock moisture into your food. When you’re done, the skillet is conveniently dishwasher safe, while its non-stick cooking surface makes for an easy wipe-down experience. Built to a high standard of quality in the USA, this versatile cooking device is made to last.
Large, deep dish electric skillet
Adjustable temperature settings
Glass lid included
- BrandCusinart
- ModelCSK-150
- Weight10.5 pounds
Stainless steel is great for cooking at higher temperatures
Cool-touch handles for safe handling
Non-stick coating for easy cooking and clean-up
Dishwasher safe
Made to a high standard of quality in the USA
Stainless steel does not heat as evenly as aluminum
12
Presto Electric Skillet
The second Presto electric skillet to make it onto our list is this compact 11 inch appliance. Don’t be fooled by the skillet’s small size, however – thanks to its deep dish design it can actually feed up to four people. Whether you’re cooking up a hearty casserole or pasta bake, you’ll be in for easy use and clean-up thanks to a deluxe non-stick surface.
Meanwhile, adjustable temperature settings ensure that each ingredient is cooked to perfection. You can even turn the dial right down to keep food warm for later. Each skillet includes a unique lid, made using EverNu plastic. The material is designed to resist dents, warping, and peeling, even when the heat is high – unlike glass, there’s no risk of it shattering.
Compact and sturdy electric skillet
Adjustable temperature settings
Non-stick coating
EverNu plastic lid included
- BrandPresto
- Model6620
- Weight7310-01-600-4936
Ideal for feeding up to 4 people
Non-stick coating makes for easy cleaning and cooking
Deep dish design can accommodate a wide array of dishes
Plastic lid is shatter-proof
Cool touch handles for safe use
Not dishwasher safe
13
Black & Decker Family Sized Electric Skillet
Although they’re better known for power tools than kitchen tools, Black & Decker have turned their attention towards this unique electric skillet with great success. This large, deep dish skillet is ideal for family cooking and entertaining – whatever you like to whip up. Thanks to a powerful non-stick coating, the skillet is easy to use, and just as easy to clean. Meanwhile, an adjustable temperature dial makes it simple to cook your way, without running the risk of burning.
Each skillet comes with its own tempered glass lid, helping you to lock in moisture during the cooking process. When everything is cooked to perfection, you can serve your culinary creation right in the pan itself. A set of cool-touch handles makes it easy to move to the table, while the temperature dial can be rolled right back to keep food warm throughout the evening.
Large electric skillet with adjustable temperature settings
Deep dish design
Non-stick coating
Dishwasher safe
Tempered glass lid included
- BrandBlack & Decker
- ModelSK1215BC
- Weight8.24 pounds
Great for entertaining
Easy to use and clean, thanks to a non-stick coating and dishwasher safe design
Perfect for serving, and keeping food warm
Cool-touch base and serving handles for safe movement
Thermostat controls can be tricky to master
Not a great option for frying bacon and other meats
14
Precise Heat Stainless Steel Electric Skillet
Precise heat have also earned themselves a spot on our list with this convenient stainless steel skillet. Featuring a deep dish, 16 inch pan, it’s the ideal size for catering to larger families and households. Thanks to a set of non-slip feet, the skillet will stay firmly in place on the countertop, allowing you to get on with the business of cooking safely and securely.
The skillet is also equipped with an adjustable thermostat, so it’s easy to cook a huge variety of dishes without the fear of burning or under-cooking. When your food is done, a set of cool-touch handles make it easy to carry to the table, while a stainless steel lid helps to keep food warm and fresh. Although it doesn’t feature a non-stick coating, the stainless steel cooking surface ensures that food slides around easily.
Large electric skillet with adjustable temperature range
Ideal for hosting and large families
Deep dish can accommodate a wide array of foods
- BrandPrecise Heat
- ModelKTES4
- Weight13.9 pounds
Attractive design looks great on the dinner table
Non-slip feet for safe and easy cooking
Cool-touch handles for easy transportation
Made using durable, surgical grade stainless steel
Not dishwasher safe
Does not feature a non-stick coating
15
Chefman Electric Indoor Skillet
Last, but not least, comes this unique design by Chefman. The circular, three-in-one skillet makes an excellent addition to any modern kitchen. The handy appliance can function as a slow cooker, steamer, and frying pan, helping you whip up all your favorite dishes in one place.
Unlike many electric skillets on the market, Chefman’s design recreates that distinctive grilled taste whatever the weather. Thanks to its ridged cooking surface, you can even recreate those distinctive grilling lines that are usually the preserve of barbeque season. The skillet can reach temperatures ranging from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for everything from slow-cooking hotpots to flash fried vegetables. Each skillet includes a tempered glass lid, locking in moisture without blocking your view of the food inside.
Round electric skillet with adjustable thermostat
3-in-1 design acts as pot, skillet, and grill
Non-stick coating
Deep dish for versatility
Tempered glass lid included
- BrandChefman
- ModelRJ05-R-AM
- Weight5.45 pounds
Dishwasher safe for an easy clean-up
Non-stick surface for convenient use
Suitable for a wide variety of dishes
Glass lid locks in moisture without blocking your view
Great for indoor grilling
Rounded design may be inconvenient to store
Lacks handles
Best Electric Skillet Buying Guide & FAQ
With 15 electric skillets to choose from, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect appliance for your kitchen somewhere on our list. To help you work out which option is best-suited to your needs, and get the most out of this handy piece of kit, we’ve compiled a brief guide. Below, we run through what to watch out for when purchasing your skillet, what they can be used for, and more.
What to Look for When Buying an Electric Skillet
When it’s time to choose an electric skillet for your kitchen, it’s a good idea to watch out for the following features:
- Non-stick Coating
Although it’s not essential, a non-stick coating can be a real boon when it comes to using a skillet. The coating will ensure that you don’t end up with baked-on food, and makes the cooking surface very easy to clean.
- Safety
Hot surfaces can be dangerous, so choosing an electric skillet with non-slip feet, a lid, and cool-touch handles or exterior can help prevent any burns.
- Extra Features
Many electric skillets are equipped with handy extra features - some are dishwasher safe, some include a recipe booklet, and others (such as our top pick) have a pouring spout and foldaway handles. Which features you require will be very much down to personal preference.
- Durability
As with any appliance, it’s best to choose an electric skillet that’s built to last. Watch out for a skillet made from sturdy materials - such as stainless steel, aluminum, and tempered glass - and be sure to check out reviews from other customers.
Why You should Use an Electric Skillet
Using an electric skillet can bring about a whole host of benefits - below are a few key reasons why you might want to use one:
- Electric skillets often heat more evenly than pans on a stovetop
- Using an electric skillet makes for more consistent pancakes, fried eggs, and French toast
- With an electric skillet, you can set an exact temperature rather than guessing
- Electric skillets often have a larger surface area than stove-top pans, allowing you to cook more at once
- Electric skillets are portable, and great for student dorms and RVs
Types Of Electric Skillets
When selecting your own electric skillet, you’ll notice there are two main types to choose from, each of which has its own advantages and drawbacks:
- Aluminum Skillets
Aluminum heats quickly and cools quickly. For this reason, aluminum skillets are great for whipping up fast dishes such as pancakes, stir fries, and eggs. They reach cooking temperature in no time, and cool down fast for convenient cleaning. Aluminum is also more lightweight than steel, making it easier to transport. However, if you’re cooking something slow such as a stew, aluminum’s lack of heat retention could work against you.
- Stainless Steel Skillets
On the other hand, stainless steel takes longer to heat, but retains a high temperature much better. For this reason, stainless steel electric skillets tend to work more efficiently than their aluminum counterparts. Steel is also robust, and less prone to deformation. However, steel can be heavy, and expensive. It also takes a little longer to reach your desired cooking temperature.
Electric Skillets Vs. Electric Griddles
While searching for an electric skillet, you may well come across its cousin, the electric griddle. These two appliances work through the same mechanism, but are shaped differently.
An electric griddle provides a flat cooking surface, unlike the ‘deep dish’ design you can expect from an electric skillet. Although electric griddles are great for indoor grilling, their flat cooking surface just isn’t as versatile as a skillet’s pot-like shape.
Tips On Using Your Electric Skillet
Electric skillets are pretty intuitive to use, but you can get the most out of yours with the following tips:
- Avoid using metal implements on a non-stick electric skillet
- If using a steel skillet, switch off the power a few minutes before your food is done - residual heat will finish the cooking for you, and cut back your power usage
- You can bake a cake in your skillet by lining the bottom and sides with foil, pouring in the batter, and leaving the lid slightly ajar while baking
- Protect your skillet’s non-stick coating by washing it in warm not hot water
Best Electric Skillet FAQ
Q: What is an electric skillet and how does it work?
A: Electric skillets are just like regular skillets with one key difference: rather than being placed on the stove to heat, they’re equipped with their own heating system.
Inside an electric skillet, electricity is passed through a series of metal elements, causing them to heat up, heating the cooking surface in turn. Adjusting the flow of energy through a thermostat controls how hot the elements become.
Q: How do I clean my electric skillet?
A: Luckily, many electric skillets - and most of those featured on our list - are totally dishwasher safe.
If you don’t have a dishwasher around, simply wash the lid and skillet in warm soapy water, being sure to remove electrical components such as temperature probes and power cables.
You should also allow the skillet to fully cool before attempting to clean it.
Q: What is the highest temperature of an electric skillet?
A: This can vary between appliances, but most skillets have a temperature range of between 200 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit (93 to 232 degrees Celsius).
Our Top Pick
Presto have earned themselves the top spot on our list, thanks to their versatile electric skillet. Packed with handy features - from a non-stick coating to foldaway handles - the appliance helps to take the stress out of cooking. Thanks to an adjustable temperature gauge, it’s easy to cook a wide range of foods without running the risk of burning. Whatever you cook, the subsequent clean-up is easy, since both pan and lid are dishwasher safe.
Made from high quality cast aluminum, the skillet is built to distribute heat well, and won’t weigh you down. In use, its detachable handles keep their cool, for safe and effective handling. Family cooks and budding chefs alike were impressed with the pan’s thoughtful build and high quality materials.
Sources:
- Electric Skillet or Griddle - Lynn’s Kitchen Adventure
- What is an Electric Skillet? - Wise Geek
- What Does an Electric Skillet Do Best? - Kitchn