10 Best Carbon Steel Frying Pans 2025 in the United States

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.

The Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Frying Pan, with an 11 3/4 inch diameter, is a versatile kitchen tool suitable for a variety of cooking techniques. It excels at heat distribution and temperature control, making it ideal for searing, stir-frying, and caramelizing. However, it is not recommended for use with acidic ingredients like lemon juice or tomato sauce, as these can damage the pan's surface.

Made from high-carbon steel, the pan is free from chemical coatings and becomes nonstick after proper seasoning, which needs to be done according to factory instructions. Its construction is durable, with a welded steel handle that prevents rust and buildup of grease or bacteria, and is designed for comfortable use during sautéing, stirring, and flipping. This pan is compatible with all hob types, including induction, and can be used over open fires, on grills, and in ovens up to 400 degrees Celsius.

Weighing 4.11 pounds, the pan is robust, though some users might find it heavy. Additionally, it requires hand washing, as it is not dishwasher safe. Made in France, it maintains high standards of durability and performance, suitable for both residential and commercial use. Despite its weight, the Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experiences with a reliable and versatile pan.

The Mauviel M'Steel Black Carbon Natural Nonstick Frying Pan is a robust and versatile option for those serious about their cooking. Made in France, this pan is constructed from extra thick black carbon steel, which provides excellent heat conduction—ideal for searing, browning, and grilling. It heats up quickly and can handle high temperatures up to 680°F, making it suitable for all cooking surfaces, including induction stoves. The iron handle is sturdy but may get hot during use, so handle with care.

At 6 pounds, the pan is relatively heavy, which might be challenging for some users to maneuver, especially when full. The 14.2-inch size offers ample cooking space for larger meals, but it may be too large for smaller stovetops or for those cooking smaller portions. The pan is pre-seasoned with a beeswax coating, which needs to be removed before first use, followed by a seasoning process to develop its natural nonstick properties. This adds an extra step before the pan is ready for cooking but results in a durable nonstick surface.

It requires hand washing and careful maintenance to prevent rust and damage, including avoiding metal utensils and abrasive cleaners. This pan is not dishwasher safe. Its commercial-grade durability ensures it will last for many years with proper care. The pan is well-suited for those who enjoy high-heat cooking and don’t mind the extra effort needed to maintain a carbon steel pan.