We Tested The Best Carbon Steel Pans To Use In Your Kitchen

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Runner Up, Best Overall

Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan

Credit: Amazon

$114 $100 at Amazon $103 at Wayfair What We Like

Available in multiple sizes
Heats evenly with no hot spots
Welded handle makes it easy to clean

What We Don't Like

Takes elbow grease to get beeswax coating off

Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan Review

This all-purpose pan by Matfer Bourgeat is made in France and is designed for commercial and home use. Constructed of unseasoned black carbon steel, you’ll have to first remove the beeswax coating, which will take some time and elbow grease, and then season it yourself. The steel handle is welded securely to the body of the pan, and since it does not have traditional rivets, it is easier to keep clean since there’s nowhere for food particles and residue to hide.

We love how light this pan was compared to cast iron, and that it heated quickly and evenly with no hot spots. Seared chicken thighs easily browned, and eggs didn't stick at all once the pan had been properly seasoned. This pan also cooled quickly, allowing for precise control when we seared fish on high and lowered the temperature to finish cooking. The only issues with sticking arose when cooking sugary syrups, which resulted in some caramelization and left behind residue.

The angled sides make it suitable for a variety of uses, from stir-frying to sautéing, and you’ll be able to use this on just about any cooking surface, even induction. Be sure to wash the pan thoroughly with a bristle brush and mild dish detergent to remove the protective coating before first use.

Oven Safe Temperature: 750+ degrees Fahrenheit | Pre-Seasoned: No | Sizes Available: 8.63 inches, 9.75 inches, 10.4 inches, 11 inches, 11.88 inches, 12.63 inches, 14.13 inches, 15.75 inches, 17.75 inches

Credit: The Spruce Eats
Credit: The Spruce Eats
Credit: The Spruce Eats
Credit: The Spruce Eats