10 Best Carbon Steel Frying Pans 2025 in the United States

The Merten & Storck Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel 12" Frying Pan Skillet offers a great blend of cast iron performance and carbon steel lightness. One of its standout features is its lightweight design at 3.3 pounds, which makes it easier to handle compared to traditional cast iron pans. This frying pan heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring efficient cooking. The 12-inch size is versatile, suitable for various cooking tasks from searing to grilling, and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, including camping.

The pre-seasoned surface helps to develop a nonstick patina over time, which enhances its usability with repeated cooking. However, it is worth noting that it requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe, which may be less convenient for some users. The steel handle, while sturdy with its triple riveted design, can get quite hot, so using a protective mitt is advisable.

This pan is oven safe up to 600°F, making it highly versatile for searing and finishing dishes in the oven. It's also compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops. Despite these strengths, the necessity for ongoing seasoning and the weight, though lighter than cast iron, might still be considered heavy by some users. With a high customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 4,500 reviews, this frying pan is well-regarded for its performance and durability, making it a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile kitchen tool.

The Merten & Storck Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel 10" Frying Pan Skillet is a lightweight option that combines the benefits of cast iron without the heft. Weighing just 2.64 pounds, it's easier to handle than traditional cast iron pans. The carbon steel construction allows for quick heating, making it ideal for searing, grilling, and broiling. The pan is pre-seasoned, meaning it will develop a more nonstick surface the more you use it, which is great for those who cook frequently. However, it does require hand washing, as it is not dishwasher safe, which might be a drawback for some users.

The triple-riveted steel handle ensures durability and provides a sturdy grip, but it might get hot during cooking, so using a handle cover or oven mitt is advisable. This pan is also oven safe up to 600°F and compatible with various stovetops including gas, electric, and induction, adding to its versatility. The 10” size is practical for everyday cooking, though it might be a bit small for larger meals.

This frying pan is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, versatile, and easy-to-handle option, though it does require some maintenance in terms of cleaning and seasoning.

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.