10 Best Carbon Steel Frying Pans 2025 in the United States

The OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a versatile kitchen tool that comes pre-seasoned, so you can start cooking right away without the need for initial seasoning. This feature is convenient, especially for those who are new to using carbon steel pans. The pan is lightweight, weighing 4 pounds, which makes it easy to handle during cooking, yet it's durable enough to withstand high temperatures up to 660°F, making it suitable for both stovetop and oven use.

The 12-inch size is ideal for a variety of cooking tasks, from frying to searing to stir-frying, and the round shape ensures even cooking and heat distribution. One of the standout features is the removable silicone handle holder, which provides a comfortable and safe grip, but it also means you need to be cautious when removing it to avoid burns. The pan is compatible with all stovetops, including induction, which adds to its versatility.

However, it is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing to maintain its patina and performance, which might be a drawback for those who prefer low-maintenance cookware. Additionally, despite being metal utensil safe, some users might find that the pan requires regular maintenance to keep its non-stick properties. The OXO Obsidian offers a good balance of convenience, durability, and versatility, making it a solid choice for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs.

The OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Frying Pan is an 8-inch skillet designed to deliver professional-grade performance with convenience. One of its standout features is the pre-seasoning, which means you can start cooking immediately without needing to season the pan yourself. The carbon steel construction ensures durability and lightweight handling, making it easy to maneuver while providing even heat distribution.

This pan is versatile, compatible with all stovetops, including induction, and oven safe up to 660°F, which makes it suitable for a variety of cooking methods. The removable silicone handle sleeve adds comfort and safety when handling the pan at high temperatures. However, its lightweight design may not be suitable for those who prefer a heavier pan, and it requires hand washing to maintain its patina, which might be inconvenient for some users.

Additionally, while it is metal utensil safe, the lack of a non-stick coating means extra care is needed to prevent food from sticking, especially with delicate dishes like omelets or fish. With a weight of 1.91 pounds and a capacity of 1.8 liters, it is a practical choice for daily cooking, although the 8-inch size might be limiting for larger meals.

The Made In Cookware 10" Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a noteworthy option for both professional chefs and home cooks looking for a versatile and durable frying pan. One of its main strengths is its hybrid nature, combining the heat retention of cast iron with the quick heating and lightweight properties of stainless steel. This makes it suitable for a wide range of cooking styles, from stovetop to grill to open flame, and it's induction compatible as well. Its capacity to withstand temperatures up to 1200°F adds to its versatility and durability, promising long-lasting performance.

The pan's size—10.25" total diameter and 7.5" cooking surface—along with a depth of 2" makes it suitable for various cooking tasks like high-heat searing and grilling. However, at 3 pounds, it might be on the heavier side for some users, especially those who prefer a lighter pan for easier handling. The stainless steel handle is designed to stay cool, but its length (19” with handle) could make storage a bit challenging in smaller kitchens.

Though the pan comes pre-seasoned, developing its non-stick surface will require regular seasoning and care. Additionally, it’s not dishwasher safe, which means it requires hand washing, potentially adding to maintenance time. Crafted in Sweden from high-quality materials, this pan is built to last and is favored by many chefs worldwide. It ranks well among skillets due to its professional-grade construction and performance. However, if ease of maintenance and lightweight use are top priorities, this may not be the best choice.