Cooking a good steak is a tricky business. Even professional chefs sometimes struggle to get it done just right.
And who can blame them? There are many technicalities to take care of. Sure, the cut of meat, the right temperature, and the duration of cooking play their role. But we cannot ignore the importance of a good pan.
Want to show off your culinary skills by cooking a juicy, delicious, and perfectly done steak? Well, you need to invest in the best pan for steaks. Having a good pan can make all the difference.
Now you can't go to a fancy diner every time you crave a steak, right? So why not invest in a high-quality pan so you can quickly cook the juicy, tender piece of steak for yourself and your family anytime.
We hand-picked some top-notch steak pans that will make people rave about your perfectly done steaks. So here we go!
OUR TOP PICK
This stone earth pan by Ozeri surprised me with its build quality and finishing job right out of the box. The first impression is an impressive one. It feels solid in your hand with a flat bottom and also sits nicely on the stove.
There is a reason Ozeri frying pans are so popular. If you want a reliable and long-lasting stone frying pan within a shoestring budget, Ozeri is an excellent option.
Encased in the stone-derived german coating, this frying pan is free of unwanted chemicals like APEO, GenX and PFBS. Most people avoid non-sticks because of the exposure to harmful chemicals, but with this frying pan, you need not worry about that.
The upper surface is made from top-notch aluminum, and a magnetized base spreads the heat rapidly, so you can cook those yummy steaks in no time.
The build quality of this pan is outstanding. We have noticed that the stone earth coating is also more durable compared to ceramic coating. We personally are pretty impressed by how Ozeri manufactured a superior-quality pan while staying on budget.
And let’s not forget the silicone heat-resistant handle that is easy to grab. We like it because you don’t have to look for a kitchen towel every time you want to grab the pan. Just be sure not to cook on too high heat, though.
Pros
- Eco-friendly cookware.
- Scratch-resistant and easy to clean coating.
- Heat-resistant, easy to grip handle.
- Well-built, solid pan.
- Distributes heat evenly.
Cons
- The coating is not PTFE free.
- The lid is not included.
EDITORS CHOICE
Cast iron skillets are our favorites for a variety of reasons. They are pretty versatile when it comes to cooking. You can make a beautiful steak as well as roast some veggies for a side.
Lodge cast iron skillet is our personal favorite because it is pretty thick and pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil.
The great thing about cast iron is that the more you use it, the better it gets. Even a 10.25-inch skillet is deep enough for some frying and for searing the steaks.
Moreover, it is heavy and sturdy, and you won’t find yourself scraping the burnt particles off it.
If you love steaks as much as we do, this cast iron skillet is the best investment. Unlike ordinary skillets, cast iron would season well over the years, even if you use it extensively.
We also appreciate that this skillet is pretty deep, so you can easily make steak AND sauce in one skillet. Because, who wants an extra dirty pan in the sink?
And truth be told, Lodge cast is a reliable brand in cookware and a suitable choice for home cooks who can't spend big bucks on a single pan.
It is best to clean this skillet with hot water only. You must dry it off, otherwise, it will rust.
Pros
- It comes with a hot handler.
- Comes pre-seasoned.
- Versatile skillet for all sorts of cooking.
- Functional pour sprouts.
- Great heat retention and heat distribution.
- Easy cleaning.
- Low maintenance.
Cons
- Is not adequately seasoned by default.
BEST VALUE
If you are longing for beautifully char-grilled steaks but don’t have the liberty of outdoor barbecue, this cast iron grill pan by Lodge is your holy grail.
Now Lodge is the company that is phenomenally popular thanks to the unmatched quality of their cookware. This cast iron grill pan is no exception.
With this grill pan, achieving a perfectly seared and grilled steak is a walk in the park for home cooks. Here is an important thing about cast-iron skillets: you need to take care of the seasoning because if seasoned properly, the cast iron pan lasts long and just keeps getting better over time.
You can use it on a campfire, on a grill, on a stove, or anywhere you like to make delicious steaks for your family and friends.
We also found out that making stir fry veggies in this grill pan is such a joy. Beautiful, crunchy, crispy veggies go well with a steak and a glass of wine, right?
This is the kind of skillet you can pass down to your kids because, remember, the more you use it, the better it gets. It's a win-win.
Pros
- Ideal for use on a campfire or barbeque.
- Even heat retention.
- Beautiful grill rib marks.
- Pre-seasoned.
- It doesn’t stick or burn food.
- It gives a smoky flavor.
- Long-lasting and durable.
Cons
- The pan can rust if not dried properly.
RUNNER UP
If you’re fond of juicy and flavorful steaks, get a pan that’s 10/10 in all aspects. An All-Clad D3 stainless steel pan is the best pan for making steaks and cooking fillets because of its ergonomic design. Since this is a 12-inch pan, you can easily cook those perfectly crisped steaks without burning their edges.
This pan has sloppy edges for easy flipping and a flat central surface for cooking thick meat pieces. Its construction is ideal for multiple purposes, for example cooking, sauteing, and searing. This easy-to-use pan is made to meet the highest culinary standards, evidenced by its limited lifetime guarantee.
This pan doesn’t require much upkeep and is safe for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, the pan’s professional crafting will let you cook juicy and soft steaks at home.
Another excellent feature of this steak pan is its equal heat distribution; when you cook a steak in this pan (on medium-high heat), it won’t stick or burn immediately. Instead, you’ll have sufficient time to cook and achieve the perfect color and tenderness before flipping its side.
Pros
- Its stainless steel and aluminum construction is ideal for long term usage and busy home kitchens.
- The finely crafted surface ensures even heat distribution, eventually giving a steak the perfect color.
- All-clad pan is safe-to-use in your dishwasher, oven, and boiler.
- Its contoured handles offer a stable grip so that you can flip the meat without much struggle and cook it to perfection.
Cons
- The marination might stick a bit on high heat, maintaining a low-medium flame is crucial.
RUNNER UP
Cooking steaks is an art, and you need the best steak pan to master it. If you're searching for a compatible and affordable steak skillet, look no further than a USA Pan skillet. This skillet is made from 5 solid metal layers that collectively offer excellent durability and make cooking easier for everyone.
If you struggle with cooking thick and perfectly softened meat steaks, this skillet is here to the rescue. We have tried this pan for beef steaks, and it's hands down amazing.
The hard cast steel construction and brilliant heat distribution set this skillet apart from the mediocre ones.
This skillet is suitable for low-medium heat cooking, regardless of the dish you're making. Whether you saute meat chunks or experiment with thicker fillets, grab this skillet and enjoy your flavorful meals.
Also, if you're health-conscious like we are, this cookware should be your go-to grab. Its vapor cover design makes waterless and greaseless cooking possible. You can cook tender steaks without adding extra oil and enjoy all-natural flavors, thanks to the excellent vapor cover mechanism.
USA Pan is a trusted name in the American cookware industry, so this skillet will surely make cooking a lot easier for you.
Pros
- Offers optimal heat conductivity to cook meatloaves without burning them.
- Unique vapor cover design is ideal for greaseless and efficient cooking.
- Easy-to-wash design.
- The 5-PLY design is excellent for busy kitchens and regular usage.
Cons
- Not suitable for high heat cooking.
RUNNER UP
Wanna cook steaks with some panache and style? This CSK frying pan has an eye-catching design! The pan is made from aluminum alloy coated with Whit-Ford Granite to form a solid design.
Whether you cook steaks or pancakes, this non-stick pan won't disappoint. Its interior is heavy-duty aluminum, which provides equal heating and effortless cooking. When you're short on time, use this non-stick pan and prepare your meals in a jiffy, all thanks to its high-quality material.
This pan's bakelite handle offers a good grip and doesn't heat up while you cook. If you prefer lightweight cookware, this earth pan will match your requirements for sure.
If you're on a diet, invest in a non-stick pan and cook in less oil for long-term health benefits. This 10-inch pan is ideal for sauteing veggies and meat without needing much greasing.
Its design will add more charm to your kitchen, especially if you have an open kitchen. Forget scrubbing the pans because you can clean this non-stick pan with minimal effort. The pan is stove and oven safe, which makes it perfect for experimenting.
If you're not kitchen-smart yet, this pan will make you one. Just maintain a steady flame and prepare mouth-watering meat steaks at home with this steak pan.
Pros
- Handle provides a stable grip and makes it safe-to-use.
- Uniform heat distribution softens your food.
- Heavy base makes efficient cooking more feasible.
- The earthy design looks fascinating and doesn't wear with regular usage.
Cons
- It doesn't come with a lid.
RUNNER UP
If you have nailed your steak game and want to upgrade to a professional pan, this carbon steel pan by Mineral B is the right choice.
Now carbon steel is incredibly durable, and the heat distribution is also impressive. But you have to be careful with the seasoning and maintenance. So if patience is not your biggest virtue, this pan is not for you.
Filmed with non-toxic beeswax, this pan is PTFE or POFE free and contains no other toxic chemicals. So you are getting a 100 percent natural iron pan that is non-stick too.
Now the seasoning is the most important part if you have decided to invest in this pan. The seasoning makes it non-stick and also makes it last for generations. You just need to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
The heat distribution is even, which means you get evenly cooked steaks every time. If maintained properly, there is nothing quite like this pan. It is the ultimate choice for people who are passionate about cooking.
The long handle is pretty iconic as it is easy to hold if you are stirring or flipping stuff. Sure this pan is a bit expensive compared to other options, but it provides excellent value for money as you can give it to your grand-kids. Yup, it is designed to last a lifetime.
Pros
- A pan for a lifetime.
- Suitable for professional as well as home chefs.
- Comes pre-seasoned.
- Coated with natural beeswax.
- Easy to clean, just rinse and dry well.
- Easy to grab handle, heat resistant.
Cons
- The pan is pretty heavy.
- It is not the most attractive looking pan.
FAQs About The Best Pan For Steaks
What is the ideal temperature for cooking steaks?
Since steaks need more time than meat chunks/mince, you must maintain low-medium heat while making them. Heating the pan before adding meat to it is also recommended. However, make sure the pan is not too hot as that’ll burn the steak’s outer edges while leaving the inside uncooked. Once your steak softens, and the marination is absorbed, treat it on high flame for 3-4 minutes before removing it from the heat source.
What is the best stove/cooker for steaks?
If you’re a beginner, using an electric cooker should be your priority, as that gives you more control over the temperature. But if you have the regular gas/induction stove, make sure it’s set on medium flame. Since all pans mentioned in our list are compatible with different stoves, you won’t struggle with them much.
Should you scrub non-stick pans?
No, that’s a bad practice. If you accidentally burn the food or something is stuck to your pan, soak it in a mixture of water and vinegar. After some time, the food particles will quickly come off without you having to scrub the pan.
Are stainless steel pans hard-to-clean?
When compared to aluminum pans, yes, stainless steel is hard to clean. You need a good quality detergent and gentle cleaning to maintain a steel pan’s shine. If you’re passionate about spot-free cookware, invest in excellent cleaners/soaps.
How to wash cast-iron skillets?
Cast iron skillets are best for cooking if you know how to season and wash them properly. Quit using soap or dish liquid on cast iron as it gets rids of the seasoning. To get rid of burnt food, just scrub with salt and water. Afterward, just rinse it with warm water and immediately dry it off. Better yet, put it on the stove and let the water dry completely. While the pan is still warm, apply vegetable oil nicely and then store it in a dry place.
Wrap up
And we are done here, chefs. We are sure after this detailed review, you have picked the best pan for steaks from our list. We handpick items keeping a variety of factors in mind, so rest assured, you can choose any pan you like, and it will live up to its expectations fully.
If you are still confused, here are some quick recommendations:
- If you are a beginner home chef, we recommend investing in the Ozeri Stone Earth Pan.
- If you love cast iron and know what seasoning is, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is the best option for you.
- If you are a pro chef, Mineral B’s Carbon steel fry pan would be a perfect match.