Is Teflon still dangerous? Do all non-stick pans contain Teflon? What are the best non-stick pans without Teflon – if any?
These questions flood the minds of most buyers.
And with so much controversy around non-stick cookware, it makes sense.
Worse yet, today’s clever marketing misleads you left and right.
Most of the “healthy” non-stick pans available contain Teflon and potential risk.
Yes, even the natural-looking, “PFOA-free” versions…
The truth is, there are only four non-Teflon, non-stick pan materials. That’s what you’ll discover below in this guide.
Once and for all, you’ll uncover:
- The truth about which pans have Teflon (hint – most of them).
- The health risks of each.
- The four best alternatives and how to use them…properly (crucial)
- And finally, the nine best non-Teflon, non-stick pans that blend safety and convenience – reviewed.
This way, you’ll keep your family safe while leveling up your cooking game.
So let’s dive in!
Jump to a Section
Image | Name | Star Rating | Price Tier | Details |
---|---|---|---|---|
GreenPan Valencia Pro 12" Ceramic Pan | 4.6 / 5 | $$ | Check Price | |
DaTerra Cucina Multi-Layered 11" Ceramic Pan | 4.4 / 5 | $$ | Check Price | |
Tramontina 10" Ceramic Pan | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Check Price | |
Ozeri Green Earth 14" Ceramic Wok | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Check Price | |
Top | GreenPan SearSmart Ceramic Pan 8" & 10" Combo | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Check Price |
GreenLife Soft Grip Pro Ceramic Pan 7" & 10" Combo | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Check Price | |
Lodge 12" Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet | 4.7 / 5 | $ | Check Price | |
Lodge 12" Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Skillet | 4.4 / 5 | $ | Check Price | |
Le Creuset 10.25" Enameled Cast Iron Skillet | 4.7 / 5 | $$$ | Check Price |
Why You Need to Ditch Traditional Non-stick Cookware
and how to do it…
It began as an accidental lab discovery…
Then, employed in the Manhattan Project for nuclear weapons production.
Finally, it landed on stovetops worldwide.
What is it? Good old Teflon – and it makes sense.
With time growing more and more scarce, Teflon pans help you win back some of your day.
You can whip up sticky foods in minutes, then wipe the pan clean in seconds.
But as the saying goes, convenience has a cost.
And health is the currency.
Yet, before you can avoid Teflon’s health risks, you need to know which non-stick pans actually contain it…
A difficult task with today’s tricky marketing.
Which non-stick pans actually have Teflon coatings?
Here’s the bottom line; any saucepan, frypan, skillet, saute pan, etc., claiming it’s “non-stick,” is Teflon.
Non-stick, Teflon, PTFE, etc… They’re all the same thing.
I’m sure you know the familiar dark coatings – plastic-looking sheens and a slippery feel.
Now, unless you read “ceramic-coated” (more on that later) on the packaging, you can assume it’s Teflon.
But here’s where it gets confusing:
Watch out for these misleading pans when you shop:
When browsing non-stick cookware, you’ll often notice the wording, “Stone-derived coating,” “Granite coating,” “Titanium non-stick coating,” “Stratinum,” etc…
They’re all PTFE (Teflon) coatings. All of them.
The only differences? Unique manufacturing processes.
Extra layering or ground-up stone additives, for example, added to increase durability and flaunt unique selling points.
Even the “PFOA-free” pans carry potential risk – We’ll come back to PFOA in a sec.
So, you know how to tell if a pan has Teflon. Now let’s glance over its risks.
How non-stick pans become hazardous
There’s no shortage of controversy around Teflon…
The top question: Is it safe?
The answer: It depends on your habits.
Let’s start with PFOA.
PFOA (or Perfluorooctanoic Acid) belongs to the PFAS group of chemicals – key ingredients to produce Teflon.
Now, PFAS’ stay safe at normal temperatures. But, once a non-stick pan hits 464°F, PFOA starts breaking down and off-gassing toxins – according to the EWG.
And after 500°F, it only gets worse.
How PFOA hurts your health when overheated
Ever hear of Teflon Flu?
Overheated Teflon can induce flu-like symptoms in humans. One story of a 29-year old Japanese man comes to mind.
An accidentally overheated pan led to a three-day hospital stretch.
Teflon fumes are incredibly toxic to pet birds, too, able to kill with the slightest exposure.
Also, lab studies show PFOA exposure links to liver, testicle, and pancreas tumors, to name a few, according to the American Cancer Society.
Now, you may say, “Yeah but, I’ll never overheat my pan.”
That’s what I thought. But then I discovered it’s easier than we think!
Here’s how easy it is to overheat your pan…
Gas cooktops are the biggest culprit for overheating as the open flame heats cookware rapidly.
A test by Good Housekeeping shows a pan with 2 tbsp of oil placed over high heat reaches 507°F in 2.5 minutes.
Regardless of your stovetop, you’re one distracting text or phone call away from overheating.
Now thankfully, PFOA was phased out in 2013 due to these concerns. Hence why you see “PFOA-free” non-stick cookware advertised.
The big question – are non-stick pans without PFOA safe?
PFOA-free does not mean PTFE (Teflon)/ PFAS-free.
Instead, it means the pan contains GenX or PFBS instead of PFOA.
Here’s the problem.
GenX and PFBS remain part of the same PFAS family. Cousins, perhaps.
And here’s the kicker: The EPA’s toxicity assessment shows GenX impacts kidney, blood, and immune system function in lab animals; PFBS shows thyroid and kidney disruption.
That’s why you want both PFOA and PTFE-free non-stick pans.
Takeaway on Teflon
With all that said, I want to stress how it’s possible to use Teflon without risk.
Buy from reputable brands, use low heat, and follow the same non-stick ceramic best practices below.
But given the potential for risk and margin of error, I recommend choosing non-stick cookware without PTFE.
Instead, pick one of the non-stick pans without Teflon coatings below.
4 Types of Non-Stick Pans with No Teflon
and how to use them…the right way
Important!
Before you get to the nine best non-Teflon pan reviews, you need to understand how they work.
Also, how to use them the right way. (Something nobody ever talks about.)
Not doing so causes sticking and shortens their lifespan.
Like Teflon cookware, ceramic-coated pans start as bare metal. The difference is in the coating.
Rather than PTFE, manufacturers spray the pan with an eco-friendly, sand-based coating.
The result is a stick-resistant, glass-like surface.
This coating remains safe when overheated and cooks delicate foods with ease.
Basically, I find nothing sticks to ceramic pans when you do this:
- Before adding food, preheat the empty pan for 2-3 minutes over low-medium.
- Never go above medium heat. Ceramic coatings heat so efficiently that medium = high. Any hotter, the food burns and sticks.
- For most sticky foods like eggs and fish, drop a small dab of high smoke point oil onto the pan once it’s hot – but before adding your food. (Much less oil than steel or cast iron, so it’s still low-calorie).
- Then, add your food, but don’t touch it for 30-45 seconds. Let it cook through a little first.
- Avoid metal utensils to protect the coating. Also, avoid plastic as it can leach chemicals and melt – use softer, non-toxic utensils like wood or silicone instead.
- Avoid non-stick aerosol sprays – the propellants damage coatings.
- Avoid the dishwasher – it reduces non-stick performance.
- Avoid oven cooking.
Remember, it’s not Teflon. You need to use it a little differently.
You’ll notice complaints online about ceramic pans lasting only a few months. But, the reason often stems from ignoring these tips.
To prove it, here’s a clip of my inexpensive, 1.5-year-old Blue Diamond ceramic pan. I’m using these these wood and silicone utensils in the clip:
All I do is follow the steps above, and my pan still performs like new.
With those same tips, you’ll enjoy safe non-stick pans without Teflon’s health risks for years.
Cast iron as a non-stick pan? You bet.
With a few simple tips, you can whip up all your delicate foods with this versatile material.
And the best part? Cast iron isn’t only safe, but it gains more non-stick performance as time goes by!
But it takes a bit of patience to adopt.
First, you need to season your pan to build a non-stick layer.
For the simple, step-by-step instructions to season cast iron, open our Teflon Alternative Guide in a new tab.
Once finished, you’ll notice the pan takes on a smooth, Teflon-like, non-porous surface.
With a good seasoning layer, plus the easy steps below, you can prepare even the stickiest of foods like eggs.
How I cook eggs and other delicate foods with my cast iron pan:
- ALWAYS preheat your empty pan over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes. Cast iron heats slowly. To check if it’s ready, splash water droplets on the pan. It’ll dance and/ or sizzle when the pan reaches the proper temperature.
- Don’t go too hot. Food will burn and stick.
- Once preheated, add about 1 tbsp of butter or oil.
- Right after you drop in your fats and let them disperse, add your food on top. Let the food rest for 30-60 seconds before moving it.
Here’s me frying eggs with my 12” Lodge skillet (without sticking):
I follow those steps every time I cook. Proper heat. Proper fat usage. That’s it!
But to preserve cast iron’s non-stickiness, you need to care for it properly.
Don’t use the dishwasher or soap. Degreasers wreck the seasoning layer.
To clean, hand wash with hot water and a coarse brush. For stubborn residue, scrub the pan with coarse salt.
After washing, dry the pan and apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to preserve the seasoning.
Picture cast iron went on a strict diet to get ready for swimsuit season.
What you’d see is the leaner, more agile carbon steel.
With it, you enjoy cast iron’s benefits – non-toxic surface, heat retention, ever-increasing non-stick, better flavor, etc…
But with a thinner, lighter pan that’s easier to maneuver.
Also, carbon’s smoother surface releases sticky foods easier.
To prevent sticking and care for carbon steel, follow the same cast iron tips above (seasoning included).
Don’t want to worry about seasoning?
Consider enameled cast iron, which is simply raw iron wrapped in a thin glass coating.
Thanks to the enamel, you can reap the rewards of cast iron’s excellent heat retention and searing… Yet, without worrying about seasoning your pan, like stainless steel cookware.
Also, cleaning is effortless. For example, you can scrub the enamel with dish soap or toss it in the dishwasher.
In contrast, you clean raw iron and carbon steel by hand without soap.
And if you forget to dry your pan after cleaning, it won’t rust!
To prevent sticking, follow the cast iron bullet points above (minus the seasoning).
Complaints about food sticking (on enamel, raw cast iron, and carbon steel) all trace back to three things…
- Cooking WAY too hot.
- Not preheating.
- Not using enough fats.
Alright, so by this point, you’re a ninja on non-stick, non-Teflon materials.
You know how to use and care for them properly for the best results.
Now let’s dig into the product reviews.
9 Best Non-Stick Pans Without Teflon Reviewed
Now let’s dive into the best non-stick cookware without Teflon – options for each material above.
I researched and compiled this list using several methods.
My own experiences using the pans – hundreds of customer testimonials – and deep brand/ material research.
Plus, I’ll link to various sizes of each pan to suit your family’s needs.
- (Best for induction) GreenPan Valencia Pro Non-stick frying pan without Teflon – 12″
- DaTerra Cucina’s Non-Stick Pan that is Not Teflon – 11″
- (Budget-friendly Pick) Tramontina Ceramic Non-stick Pan without Teflon – 10″
- Ozeri Green Earth Non-Stick Wok Without Teflon – 14″
- (#1 Pick) GreenPan SearSmart Non-Teflon Non-Stick Pans – 8″ & 10″
- (Most affordable Set) GreenLife Soft Grip Pro Non-stick, Non-Teflon Pans – 7″ & 10″
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Non-Teflon Non-Stick Pan – 12″
- Lodge Carbon Steel Cooking Pans Without Teflon – 12″
- Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Skillet – 10.25″
#1
GreenPan Valencia Pro Non-stick frying pan without Teflon – 12”
The Valencia Pro. For when you crave a safe, high-performance non-stick pan that doesn’t break the bank.
Its thick aluminum core and diamond-infused ceramic coating conduct heat nearly on par with copper. With such efficient heating, you can achieve better food texture and more even browning than with other pans.
Plus, the rugged coating resists scratching and releases food with little to no oil effortlessly. And if you accidentally overheat – no harmful fumes!
Lower-end GreenPan models, like Lima, do not contain diamond-infused layering. While they, too, have excellent non-stick performance, Valencia will stay non-stick longer.
But the Valencia Pro’s iron/ copper Magneto base is what sets it apart from competitors—
Few GreenPan models come with the Magneto base. Most non-stick pans don’t.
It doesn’t just make the pan induction-compatible; the base also conducts and retains heat better on any stovetop. That means further enhanced browning as pan temperatures stay more consistent.
With this pan’s 12” width and 2.5” depth, you can whip up enough eggs and pancakes for the entire family in minutes… Without overcrowding the pan.
And with a 2.8 lbs weight (about three soda cans) and stay-cool steel handle, maneuvering the pan is a piece of cake.
If anything goes wrong, GreenPan has your back with a limited lifetime warranty.
Other sizes available: 8″ skillet – 10″ skillet – 10″ skillet with lid – 11″ skillet. Or, grab a combination set: Choose from an 8″ and 10,” or a 10″ and 12″ combo.
Pros
- Thermolon diamond-infused ceramic coating - Made in South Korea
- Thick, hard-anodized aluminum with excellent heat retention & warp protection
- Unique Magneto base works with all stovetops & boosts responsiveness
- Lightweight
- Stay-cool stainless steel handle with hang hole
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- A bit pricey
- It won’t last forever
- Not oven, dishwasher, or metal utensils-safe (although they claim it is). Using these hurts non-stick performance
Want to buy elsewhere? Buy direct from GreenPan here (with option for interest-free installment payments) Or, explore their entire catalog here.
#2
DaTerra Cucina’s Non-Stick Pan that is Not Teflon – 11”
Don’t you hate when eggs stick to non-stick pans after a few short months?
One solution is multiple non-stick coatings. But sadly, most pans have a single layer.
That’s where Italian-made DaTerra Cucina comes in – the only 4-layer, volcanic rock-infused, ceramic-coated pan.
The result? A rugged non-stick pan without Teflon that heats fast, remains non-stick and wipes clean in one fell swoop.
One Amazon customer said:
“After 2+ years of daily use, eggs, hash browns, and sauces slide around like the day I received the pan.”
With an 11” width, 3” depth, and gently sloped sides, you can saute piles of spinach without overflowing the pan.
Yet, it really excels at whipping up eggs, where several competing brands fall short.
Plus, the cozy, silicone-wrapped steel handle and gentle 2.2lbs weight (or about 2.5 soda cans), make this pan easy for anyone to manage.
You also get an airtight, tempered glass lid with a silicone seal.
The seal prevents wobbling from steam buildup and traps moisture for a tender bite.
Best of all, if anything goes wrong, a 1-year warranty protects you.
Other sizes available: 13” size (no lid) for larger servings of food. And a more affordable 9.5” fry pan (no lid).
Pros
- Made in Italy
- 4-layer ceramic coating
- Lightweight
- Works on all stovetops except induction
- Thick aluminum base for even heating and heat retention
- Includes tempered glass lid with an airtight silicone seal
- Silicone-wrapped, stay-cool steel handle with hang hole
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- A bit pricey
- It won’t last forever
- Not oven, dishwasher, or metal utensils-safe (although they claim it is). Using these hurts non-stick performance
- Not induction compatible
#3
Tramontina Ceramic Non-Stick Pan Without Teflon – 10”
If you’re on a tight budget yet don’t want a piece of junk, you’re in luck.
In fact, Tramontina’s Italian-made fry pan costs less than most Chinese-made options.
Something you rarely find. Yet, Tramontina cut no corners.
A rugged porcelain enamel coating wraps the outside of the pan – resisting burns, chips, scratches, and discoloration.
On the inside sits a cream-colored non-stick ceramic surface.
With a tiny dab of oil, “sticky food slides off like cars on ice,” as one customer said.
Another user, “Cleaning the pan is the next best thing to cooking; wipe with a paper towel.”
Others love how the light-colored surface adds contrast to their food. This helps you avoid burning in low-light kitchens.
The 10” diameter and 1.8” depth is a good middle ground; large enough for main entrees, yet not too bulky for a few eggs.
And with a feather-like weight of 1.5lbs (1.6 cans of soda) and a cool-touch steel handle, maneuvering is effortless.
…A great piece to practice your pan-flipping pancake skills 😉
But what’s most impressive? Tramontina’s limited lifetime warranty on such an affordable pan.
Other sizes available: An 8″ pan, excellent for single folks. And a 12” version, perfect for families. Also, the Gourmet Ceramica Deluxe edition has deeper sides to sauté more significant food amounts.
Pros
- Made in Italy, assembled in the USA
- Affordable - under $30
- Lightweight
- Works on all stovetops except induction
- Light-colored, ceramic coating
- Metallic porcelain enamel exterior - stays looking new
- Soft-grip, stay-cool steel handle with hang hole
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Thinner and lighter than the others on this list - don’t expect it to last as long
- Not induction compatible
- Not oven, dishwasher, or metal utensils-safe (although they claim it is). Using these hurts non-stick performance
Budget-friendly alternative: GreenPan’s Lima is another great budget-friendly option, priced the same as Tramontina’s. Check it out here!
#4
Ozeri Green Earth Non-Stick Wok Without Teflon – 14”
Large, deep woks open up a whole new world of cooking possibilities.
For example, saute onions and tomatoes to create a rich base. Then, mix in water and heaps of raw pasta to craft a savory one-pot feast… Something hard to do in a frying pan.
Enter Ozeri’s Green Earth wok, the only 14” non-stick wok with a double-layered, German-made ceramic coating.
Actually, the 14” wide pan with flat base and 5” high sides acts more like a wok/ fry pan hybrid. (14” is the recommended size by wok pros.)
With a flat bottom, you can use this cookware on electric stoves, normally not recommended with round-bottomed woks.
For breakfast, you can easily prepare fluffy eggs on the flat cooking surface. Then, for dinner, stir fry pounds of vegetables or fried rice, and even make soup for the family – without spillovers.
And the safe, double-layer coating ensures easy cleaning for lots of meals to come.
In fact, one customer bought this pan 14 months ago, and his sister, eight years. Both still perform well as new. Just follow the ceramic tips I laid out earlier.
Plus, its 3.1lbs weight (about 3.4 soda cans) and stay-cool Bakelite handle guarantee comfort.
And to wrap it up, Ozeri gives you a limited lifetime warranty on this pan.
Other sizes available: 12” version, great for 1-2 person wok stir-frying.
Pros
- Double-layered ceramic coating for longer-lasting non-stick - Made in Germany
- A thick aluminum base holds heat like a sponge, helping to brown food as you stir fry
- Lightweight
- Stay-cool Bakelite handle with hang hole
- Hybrid wok design with a versatile flat base
- Flat bottom works on all stovetops (including induction) - no need for a wok ring or dedicated wok burner
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some complaints that the handle gets hot
- It won’t last forever
- Not oven, dishwasher, or metal utensils-safe (although they claim it is). Using these hurts non-stick performance
Side note: While Ozeri makes an easy-to-use wok, nothing beats the real thing—
This authentic 14″ carbon steel wok from Yosukata is a game-changer. It’s pre-seasoned and ready for use; plus, it gets more non-stick over time, not less!
#5
GreenPan SearSmart Non-Teflon Non-Stick Pans – 8″ & 10″
Imagine mixing non-stick ease with cast iron’s flavor-enhancing texture. You’d arrive at GreenPan’s revolutionary SearSmart.
This model offers some notable improvements over previous GreenPan lines:
On top of the hard-anodized base sits multiple layers of textured, diamond-infused ceramic. This coating performs like the Valencia Pro (even heat spread, non-stick, etc.) but lasts 2x longer due to the extra layering. And compared to this brand’s cheaper models, such as Lima (single-layer, no diamond), it’s no competition.
I’ve tested this model only briefly. But many long-term GreenPan users agree – SearSmart outshines the rest in longevity and non-stick performance.
Plus, this model sports the Full Efficiency body – another exclusive design tweak. It provides the same flat cooking space of a 12” pan in a 10,” so you can do more with less.
But my favorite part is this pan’s textured surface. It immediately reminded me of my Lodge skillet…
This texture has two main benefits:
First, I’ve noticed richer, crisper textures than my other non-stick pans produce. I love the enhanced flavors as a result.
And second, the textured “peaks and valleys” help prevent food from scorching to the pan. Food releases easier, so cleaning up is faster.
You score two pans, an 8” and 10” – ranging in depths from 1 ¾ – 2.5” deep; weights from 1.4 – 2.3 lbs. The riveted and vented steel handles stay cool to prevent burns.
And, of course, GreenPan covers you with a limited lifetime warranty.
Other sizes available: 8” frying pan (single) – 12” frying pan with lid – 5 QT non-stick saute pan without Teflon.
Pros
- Multi-layered Thermolon diamond-infused ceramic coating - Made in South Korea
- Works on all stovetops except induction
- Hard-anodized aluminum with good heat retention & warp protection
- One-of-a-kind textured surface
- Full-efficiency body with 25-40% more cooking space to fit more food in a smaller pan, saving space.
- Stay-cool steel handle with hang hole
- Lightweight
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- It won’t last forever
- Not oven, dishwasher, or metal utensils-safe (although they claim it is). Using these hurts non-stick performance.
- Not induction compatible
Want to buy elsewhere? Buy direct from GreenPan right here. You can pay over four interest-free installments.
#6
GreenLife Soft Grip Pro Non-stick, Non-Teflon Pans – 7″ & 10″
Hunting for a high-quality, *entry-level set that costs under $40?
Enter GreenLife’s Soft Grip Pro, the upgraded version of their colorful Soft Grip line.
On top of the aluminum base sits GreenLife’s upgraded ceramic coating. Unlike the base model, Soft Grip Pro contains thousands of diamond bits…
They help boost longevity to stretch your dollar further. Plus, improve heating to prevent cold spots and unevenly cooked food.
You get a 7 and 10” pan in this set, both with a 1.5 – 2” depth and comfortable weight between 1.5 – 2lbs.
Attached to each pan sits a rivetless stay-cool handle with the new built-in thumb rests.
So anyone can scramble eggs or flip pancakes in the morning without effort.
And without handle rivets, you’ll avoid that stuck, hard-to-clean food buildup.
Best of all, if you have an issue, GreenLife covers you with a limited 2-year warranty.
Other sizes and options: Instead of the set, you can grab a single 10” Soft Grip Pro pan or a single 8”. Also, there’s a 12” version great for large family-sized meals.
Pros
- Affordable budget-friendly set
- Diamond-reinforced ceramic coating
- Stay-cool Bakelite handle with comfortable thumb rest and hang hole
- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly - made with recycled aluminum and 30% solar power
- Works on all stovetops except induction
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Some complain how the outside chips if you’re not careful
- * Will not last as long as higher-end sets like the SearSmart above. You need to be extra gentle. Follow the Ceramic Best Practices to a T
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Not metal utensils safe
- Not induction-compatible
- Not oven-safe
Want to buy elsewhere? Grab this Soft Grip Pro combo set direct from GreenLife here!
#7
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Non-Teflon Non-Stick Pan – 12”
If the limited lifespan and versatility of non-stick coatings frustrate you, do yourself a favor. Grab a Lodge – my absolute favorite pan.
Lodge forms their cookware entirely as one solid piece, including the handle. So, don’t worry about breakage or having to pick at crusty handle rivets.
This skillet measures 12” wide x 2.25” deep and includes a silicone handle sleeve for comfort. Across from the main handle sits a convenient helper handle – a must-have:
Although the pan weighs 7.3 lbs (about eight soda cans), the helper handle makes it feel lighter. You can support the skillet with an extra hand when serving or removing it from the oven. And cleaning is significantly easier using this handle (your wrist will thank you!).
Now, being heavyweight may seem like a drawback for cast iron. But it’s actually a primary advantage!
Lodge cast iron’s dense mass provides unrivaled strength and heat retention: Aka, better searing, browning, and flavor. Other generic, no-name brands often use impure, poor-heating iron that leaves cold spots. I also love how this pan’s weight keeps it from sliding around as I stir.
Overall, this pan is a workhorse. Cook fluffy eggs and pancakes, sear pork chops, grill juicy steaks, saute veggies, and bake cakes in the oven… All without sticking.
And all with one non-Teflon pan that improves with time, making cleaning easier after each meal.
Other sizes available: 6.5″ – 8″ – 9″ – 10″ – 13.25″ and 15.” Cast iron is heavy, so don’t buy larger than you need.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Pre-seasoned
- A textured surface helps preserve the seasoning layer & improves browning
- Works on all cooktops; oven-safe; metal utensil-safe
- Inexpensive yet lasts forever
- Superb heat retention for top-notch browning & searing
- Helper handle & hang hole in the main handle
- Includes removable silicone handle sleeve
- Lifetime coverage
Cons
- Heavy
- Can rust - always wipe dry
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Heats slowly
- Reactive with acidic foods
Want to buy elsewhere? Head to Etsy to explore tons of Lodge cast iron cookware – both new and secondhand. You can even score vintage skillets from the 1940s!
#8
Lodge Carbon Steel Cooking Pans Without Teflon – 12”
Don’t want to deal with cast iron’s weight? Yet, you desire a non-stick pan without Teflon that lasts forever? Then check out Lodge’s carbon steel pan, perfected over 125 years.
With a 12” width, 1.5” depth, and weight of 4.4lbs (about half of cast iron), you can almost pan-flip eggs as you would with aluminum. It heats faster and weighs less than iron, so to me it’s a better day-to-day pan; it’s easier to manage.
Yet, you don’t sacrifice performance. Carbon steel retains heat better than non-stick and steel cookware, despite being thinner than cast iron: Aka, better browning, searing, flavor, and cooking versatility. I’ve yet to find another pan that browns meat and transitions from stove to oven so smoothly for under 8lbs.
I also notice how this pan releases food easier than my cast iron skillet from Lodge. Likely, this is thanks to the smoother surface.
With this pan’s ample cooking space, you can sear 3 – 4 NY strips or a large chuck roast at once. The silicone handle sleeve keeps your skin cool throughout (carbon steel gets hot!).
Then, you can simply remove the silicone sleeve and slip the pan into the oven to braise. The shallow design also slides easily under your broiler, perfect for finishing a dish.
You can even try your hand at 12” cookie cakes with this versatile pan!
And, of course, Lodge backs you up for life if you notice any defect.
Other sizes available: 10” skillet (weighs only 3.4lbs!)
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Pre-seasoned
- A smoother surface helps to release food for easier cleanup
- Lighter weight & faster to heat than cast iron
- Works on all cooktops; oven-safe; metal utensil-safe
- Inexpensive yet lasts forever
- Superb heat retention for excellent browning (although a bit less than cast iron)
- Includes *removable silicone handle sleeve to prevent burns (*You must remove this handle before oven usage)
- Lifetime coverage
Cons
- While lighter than cast iron, it’s heavier than non-stick and stainless steel
- Can rust
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Doesn’t sear as well as cast iron
- Reactive with acidic foods
Want to buy elsewhere? Head over to Etsy to shop Lodge carbon steel, as well as other brands.
Etsy allows you to support small, ethical sellers, plus they offset 100% of their shipping carbon emissions!
#9
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Skillet – 10.25”
The benefits of cast iron without the extra upkeep? Go with Le Creuset!
They form this workhorse as one single, warp-proof piece of casted French iron. Then, coat the pan in a smooth, matte black glass enamel, offering unique advantages over raw cast iron…
Raw cast iron can be a pain some days; for me it is, at least. Scrubbing, drying, oiling, etc., it’s a process. But Le Creuset’s glass enamel seals the iron, preventing rust and eliminating the need for seasoning. It’s also easier to clean – unlike raw iron, you can use dish soap to cut grease!
Cooking is always predictable with enameled iron too.
You don’t rely on external factors like non-stick coatings wearing down or seasoning layer upkeep. Le Creuset is always ready for optimal use—
Proper heat and a dab of oil are all you need to prevent sticking. However, make sure to preheat correctly, as shown here. My first time with this pan, I went too hot and it wasn’t pretty!
This pan measures 10.25” wide x 1 ⅝” deep; it weighs 6 lbs (or about 6.5 soda cans). It has the thermal mass to perfectly brown steaks. Yet, it’s compact and versatile enough to fry a few eggs without being cumbersome.
This skillet’s helper handle is a godsend, as it helps you easily maneuver the weight. Use it when serving, handwashing, and slipping the pan in (or out of) the oven or dishwasher.
Finally, Le Creuset offers this skillet in nine vibrant color options to match your kitchen. And they cover you with a lifetime warranty, of course.
Other sizes available: 11.75” skillet
Pros
- Made in France for 96 years
- Glass enamel resists sticking, staining, & rust (rust-proof)
- Dishwasher-safe & dish soap-friendly
- Non-reactive with acidic foods - no metallic flavor
- Excellent heat retention for searing & browning
- Oven-mitt-friendly helper handle & two pour spouts to prevent mess when pouring liquids
- Beautiful color options - tested lead-free
- Works on all cooktops; oven-safe; metal utensil-safe
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Handles can get hot, so use gloves, mitts, or silicone sleeves
- The enamel can chip from drops, overheating, or going too rough with metal utensils
Want to buy elsewhere? Buy direct from Le Creuset here.
Etsy has tons of Le Creuset options as well, many priced lower than other stores.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Non-Teflon, Non-Stick Pan for YOU:
Consider the following to help you make a choice above. This will help guarantee the pan suits your specific needs.
- Size & Quantity: How many people do you cook for? An 8” pan is plenty to cook eggs for yourself. To prepare larger, family-sized portions, pick 10-12.” If you cook lots of different foods, consider one of the nine healthiest cookware sets.
- Material: For the lowest effort Teflon-free non-stick pans, pick ceramic-coated. But keep in mind, it’s less versatile than the others.
- Weight: If you have arthritis or weaker wrists, cast iron may not work for you. Choose ceramic-coated or carbon steel.
- Stovetop: If you have an induction cooktop, make sure the ceramic-coated pan is induction-compatible (like #1 and #4 above). Cast iron, carbon, and enamel function well on any stovetop.
- Comfort: Apart from weight, you want the pan’s handle to stay cool to the touch. For iron, carbon, and enamel, use an oven mitt or silicone handle sleeve (many come with sleeves). For ceramic pans, check the reviews for hot handle complaints.
- Budget: Luckily, quality cast iron and carbon steel are affordable. Quality enameled iron has a steep cost but well worth it. For ceramic, don’t spend over $100 on a single pan. The coating will eventually wear down regardless. Yet, don’t go too cheap. Go somewhere in the middle, like the options above.
- Warranty: Stuff happens. So, always check for a warranty. Each pan above has one.
FAQ
Why do my eggs stick to my non-stick pan?
Eggs will stick to your non-stick pan if: You didn’t fully preheat your pan, and it’s too cool. Or, the pan is too hot and fuses the egg to the surface. To check if your pan is at the right temperature, place it over medium heat and use the water drop test method:
Add a few drops of water to the pan – the water dances around when the pan’s ready. Once it is, add oil (if desired), then your food.
Does Olive Oil ruin non-stick pans?
No, olive oil will not ruin non-stick pans, nor will any cooking oil by itself. The problem stems from cooking at temperatures past olive oil’s smoke point. Going too hot can ruin the oil and create a sticky mess on your non-stick pan.
To prevent that, cook at low to medium temperatures or use a higher smoke point oil like vegetable or avocado oil.
When should you throw away non-stick pans?
Non-stick pans don’t last forever, although some longer than others. So throw away your non-stick pans after about 4-5 years. Or once they appear warped, badly discolored, or riddled with deep scratches where shiny aluminum peeks through the non-stick coating.
Do all non-stick pans use Teflon?
Most non-stick pans use Teflon, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene unless they contain a ceramic-based coating. While toxic PFOA, or perfluorooctanoic acid, was phased out of production in 2013, modern non-stick pans contain GenX or PFBS instead. Their safety is controversial.
Which non-stick pans do not contain Teflon?
Ceramic-coated non-stick pans do not contain Teflon. Instead, they have a natural silica-based sol-gel coating. Also, cast iron, carbon steel, and enameled cast iron can replace Teflon non-stick pans with a few easy steps…
Is it safe to use a scratched non-stick pan?
When your non-stick pans are scratched up, the exposed aluminum leaches into your food. If you suffer kidney problems, this isn’t safe. Also, the non-stick pan’s coating can flake off into your food. So, if your pan is all scratched up, throw it out.
Conclusion and Key Takeaway
Non-stick cooking doesn’t get much easier than Teflon. That’s the bottom line.
Sure, the pans above take a little more effort. But, considering their safety and the remarkable flavor they produce, it’s a worthwhile venture.
For the closest thing to Teflon, grab ceramic. It requires little to no oil, cleans in seconds, and helps lower calories.
The SearSmart is the best ceramic option.
Cast iron, carbon steel, and enamel all demand more work, but you’ll notice it gets easier each use.
Plus, they’re more versatile and last forever.
I recommend grabbing one of each – a ceramic-coated pan for the most delicate foods – and one of the last three for everything else.
So that’s a wrap! Now you have a deep understanding of the best non-stick pans without Teflon.
Consider yourself freed from the Teflon burden!
Happy Cookin’
P.S. Non-Teflon, non-stick pans are the first step. But are your dinner plates safe?
Check out our post on the safest, lead-free dishes to find out if your dinnerware leaches lead. Also, uncover the safest dish sets.
Adam - the author and TGL founder - has a background in product research and design. For years, he's successfully created, produced, and sold eco-friendly, sustainable kitchenware in all fifty states. When he's not reading, cooking, or lifting, he's helping families level up their kitchen and dining gear with relevant blog posts.
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