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A deep skillet combines the functionalities of a sauté pan and a Dutch oven, making it an essential tool for serious home cooks. This versatile piece of cookware excels at searing, braising, and preparing large quantities of food. Our carefully selected deep skillets offer superior heat distribution, durable construction, and practical features to enhance your cooking experience.

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Reviews

T-Fal 10" Covered Deep Saute Pan

The T-Fal Professional covered saute pan combines durable Prometal Pro nonstick interior with a stylish Black Hard Enamel exterior, featuring a unique Thermo-spot heat indicator that lets you know when the pan is perfectly preheated. The dishwasher-safe pan has a heavy base that provides even heat distribution, and the comfortable silicone handles can go from stovetop to oven up to 400 degrees F.

Victoria 10" Deep Fry Pan with Lid

Made for serious cooking enthusiasts, this aluminum fry pan combines quick heating with precise temperature control thanks to its stable base design. The 2-layer non-stick interior makes meal cleanup a breeze, while the included glass lid helps retain heat and moisture for perfectly cooked dishes. Overall, it's a practical addition to any kitchen that balances style and functionality.

Better Chef 16-inch Deep Fryer Pan

Weighing in at a substantial 6 pounds, this 8-quart aluminum pan offers ample cooking space with its generous 16-inch diameter and 3.25-inch height. The metallic nonstick interior makes cleanup a breeze, while the heat-resistant tempered glass lid lets you monitor your meal's progress without worry. The bakelite handles stay cool to the touch, making it comfortable to move the pan around the kitchen.

Cook N Home 10.5-Inch Nonstick Saute Pan

This versatile fry pan combines durable aluminum construction with a reliable nonstick surface that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. The thick sides and generous 3.5-quart capacity make it perfect for sauteing, stir-frying, and making hearty servings for two. With its see-through tempered glass lid and cool-touch handle, every aspect of cooking is made simpler and more convenient.

Ayesha Curry Home 12" Sienna Red Deep Skillet

This substantial 12-inch skillet stands out with its elegant Sienna Red porcelain coating and practical diamond-textured nonstick interior that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. The dual-riveted stainless steel helper handle provides a secure grip, while the oven-safe glass lid helps preserve flavors during baking orbraising. The aluminum construction heats evenly without hot spots, making it ideal for everything from quick weeknight dinners to impressive holiday roasts.

Electrical Gourmet Eg6203

This extra-deep electric skillet brings restaurant-quality cooking to your kitchen with its 10.5-quart capacity and heavy-duty non-stick coating. The premium marble stone surface and cast-in heating element make clean-up a breeze, while the glass lid and tall sides keep sauces and soups contained during cooking. Whether you're making breakfast for the whole family or searing steaks for a dinner party, this versatile skillet has the space and precision heating to handle any recipe.

Tramontina Gourmet Ceramica Deluxe Skillet

This durable skillet combines heavy-gauge aluminum construction with a ceramic interior that prevents sticking without PFOA or PTFE coatings. The porcelain-enamel exterior withstands high heat and features a metallic copper finish that resists scratches and stains. The heat-resistant glass lid and soft-grip stainless-steel handles make it a versatile addition to both stovetop and oven cooking.

Elite Gourmet Deep Skillet

The Elite Gourmet Deep Skillet combines generous portion capacity with professional-grade cooking performance. Its heavy-duty cast aluminum construction and non-stick coating make cleanup straightforward, while the extra-deep 12-inch design prevents spills and ensures even cooking. The skillet's cool-touch handles and thermostat-free serving capability transform it into a versatile centerpiece for family meals, effortlessly handling everything from frying steaks to simmering soups.

Lodge 5qt Cast Iron Deep Skillet

This versatile cast iron skillet brings old-school cookery into the modern kitchen with its robust 5-quart capacity and 12-inch diameter. The deep 3.25-inch well makes it perfect for everything from deep-frying chicken to baking with the included iron cover. The Lodge skillet lives up to its stellar 5-star reputation, with users praising its durability and value without the health concerns of non-stick alternatives.

The Rock by Starfrit 11-inch Deep Diamond Fry Pan

This deep-fry pan lives up to its promises of exceptional non-stick performance and easy cleaning. The extra-thick aluminum construction feels solid in your hand, though the metal handle can get quite hot on the stovetop. With its spacious 11-inch diameter and elegant black diamond coating, it's perfect for creating delicious one-pot meals that slide off the surface effortlessly.

Food Network Textured Titanium Deep Skillet

This deep skillet combines textured titanium construction with nonstick coating, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The 12-inch diameter provides ample space for meal preparation, while the sturdy titanium construction ensures lasting performance.

Hawkins Stainless Steel Deep Fry Pan

This deep fry pan combines durable 3 mm stainless steel construction with an 18/8 food-grade alloy that's safe for both health and the environment. The heavy aluminum core ensures even heat distribution on all cooktops, while the elevated sides and ergonomic pour flange make it perfect for both deep-frying and stir-frying. The permanently riveted rosewood handles provide a comfortable grip that won't loosen over time.

SENSARTE 11-inch Deep Frying Pan with Induction Compatibility

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The Swiss-imported nonstick pan combines durable aluminum construction with a high-magnetic stainless steel base for reliable performance on all cooktops, including induction. With its spacious 4.3-quart capacity and deep 3-inch sides, it excels at sautéing, stir-frying, and shallow-frying while keeping mess to a minimum. The ergonomic woodgrain bakelite handle stays cool during cooking, and the pour spout makes it easy to transfer hot liquids and foods.

Smithey No 11 Skillet

Combining elegant design with practical functionality, this deep skillet features polished interior walls ideal for searing meats and vegetables. The 11-inch pan's generous depth helps contain splatters during frying, while its generous 18.5-inch height provides ample room for liquids when simmering or braising. The naturally non-stick surface results from Smithey's meticulous hand-finishing process, ensuring easy cleanup and lasting performance.

T-Fal 12-Inch Everyday Pan

Crafted from durable aluminum with a sleek brushed finish, this spacious 12-inch pan combines professional-grade heat distribution with T-Fal's renowned non-stick technology for effortless cooking. The deep profile keeps your meals from spilling over, while the recessed glass lid lets you monitor your food's progress without lifting the lid. The stay-cool silicone handles make it a breeze to move between the stove and oven, even when the pan's still hot.

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick 13-inch Deep Skillet with Lid

The Calphalon Premier brings lasting performance to your kitchen with its 5x more durable MineralShield coating. Its 3-layer nonstick interior handles metal utensils and everyday use with ease, while the hard-anodized exterior keeps dishes clean and simple with dishwasher safety. The oven-friendly skillet makes it a breeze to move from stovetop to oven, and the clear tempered glass lid lets you see your cooking all the way through.

Crucible Cookware 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

This pre-seasoned cast iron skillet has become our go-to for everything from searing steaks to baking bread. The extra deep design really shines when making pancakes or scrambling eggs, while the dishwasher-safe silicone handles keep our hands cool even when the pan's piping hot. The whole set, including the glass lid and handy scraper, feels like a pro kitchen upgrade that actually fits in our tiny apartment.

Victoria 10" Deep Cast Iron Skillet

The Victoria 10" Cast Iron Skillet brings a new level of comfort and performance to your kitchen. At just 4oz lighter than a traditional Lodge skillet, the extra-thick edge and longer handle make it incredibly manageable when you're searing that perfect steak or making homemade pancakes. With its smooth cooking surface and proven durability, you'll find yourself reaching for this skillet for everything from morning eggs to weeknight dinners.

Smithey Carbon Steel Deep Farmhouse Skillet

This deep-frying pan brings a touch of hand-forged craftsmanship to your cooktop, with 2-inch walls that make it a breeze to stir and sauté. The 12-inch diameter skillet is designed to become a modern heirloom, matching the look of the original Farmhouse skillet while adding practical depth for everyday use. Its smooth interior finish and pre-seasoned surface make it as easy to care for as cast iron, though it's a bit heavier at 6 pounds than some might expect.

NutriChef Cast Iron Wok

Create restaurant-quality stir-fries and pan dishes in your own kitchen with this beautifully crafted cast iron wok. The pre-seasoned surface makes cleanup a breeze, while the 16.8-inch diameter wok provides generous portion sizes for family meals or special occasions. Whether you're a home chef or looking to upgrade your restaurant supply, this wok combines durability with traditional cooking excellence.

Buyer's Guide

A deep skillet combines the versatility of a skillet with enhanced cooking capacity, making it an excellent choice for large-scale cooking and entertaining. Understanding the key features and considerations for selecting the right deep skillet can help you find a high-quality cookware piece that meets your cooking needs.

Material and Construction

The material composition significantly affects a skillet's durability and heat distribution. Common materials include stainless steel, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability; aluminum, known for its excellent heat conductivity but potential warping with age; and composite materials that blend aluminum with stainless steel or copper for superior performance. Look for core construction in aluminum skillets and uniform wall thickness for lasting quality across all cooking surfaces.

Size and Dimensions

Consider the skillet's diameter and depth for your cooking needs. Standard sizes range from 10 to 14 inches in diameter, with depths typically between 2 to 3 inches. Larger diameters offer more cooking space but may be cumbersome for stove-top tasks. Deep skillets with taller sides excel in sautéing with minimal spillover but require larger stovetops for optimal use.

Cooking Surfaces and Care Requirements

The skillet's compatibility with different cooking surfaces affects both performance and longevity. Look for skillets with reinforced edges for safe use on electric coils and flat bottoms for even gas burner heating. Consider the skillet's care requirements: non-stick finishes may scratch, while cast iron needs regular seasoning and maintenance. Choose a material and finish that aligns with your cleaning preferences and cooking frequency.

Handle Safety and Comfort

A secure, oven-safe handle is crucial for both safety and ease of use. Look for handles that extend away from the cooktop for improved stability and prevent burning. Some handles are riveted for lasting attachment, while others are detachable for storage. Opt for a handle material that remains cool during cooking, such as metal, wood, or silicone, depending on your comfort preferences.

FAQ

What is a deep skillet?

A deep skillet, also known as a sauté pan or stockpot, combines the versatility of a skillet with the depth needed for sauces, soups, and stews. It typically features high sides that prevent liquid from spilling over during cooking.

The depth allows for better heat distribution and retention, making it ideal for dishes that require simmering or braising. The shape also facilitates easy stirring without the risk of splashing hot liquids.

What material should I choose for my deep skillet?

Cookware materials can significantly impact performance and durability. Options include stainless steel, which resists corrosion and warps; aluminum, which conducts heat well but requires non-reactive cookware; and cast iron, which develops a natural non-stick surface and maintains heat efficiently.

For daily use and ease of maintenance, stainless steel or enamel-coated cast iron are excellent choices. If you prioritize weight and performance, consider aluminum cores with stainless steel exteriors.

How do I properly season a cast iron deep skillet?

Cast iron develops a natural non-stick surface through seasoning. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the skillet with soap and water, then dry it completely. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil, such as flaxseed oil, to the interior and exterior surfaces.

Place the skillet upside down in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour. Allow it to cool completely before using. For best results, reseason the skillet every 6 months or after significant use.

What size deep skillet should I purchase?

The ideal size depends on your cooking needs. Small skillets (10-12 inches) work well for single servings or sauces, while large skillets (14-16 inches) accommodate family meals and pot roasts.

Consider the available counter space and the types of dishes you cook most frequently. A versatile option is having both a smaller and larger skillet for different cooking needs.

Can I use my deep skillet on an induction cooktop?

Most induction cooktops require cookware with a flat bottom and good magnetic properties. Standard cast iron and stainless steel skillets work well on induction surfaces, but enameled cast iron may not work as effectively due to the ceramic coating.

Check your cookware's compatibility before purchasing, and verify that the skillet's bottom is completely flat for optimal performance.

How should I maintain and store my deep skillet?

Regular maintenance extends the life of your deep skillet and ensures optimal performance. After each use, hand wash with mild soap and warm water. For cast iron, avoid harsh detergents as they can strip the seasoning.

Store your skillet in a dry place, either loose or in a fitted cover. For cast iron, avoid stacking directly on the bottom of another pot or pan to prevent scratching. Regularly address any signs of rust with appropriate maintenance techniques.