22 BEST Copper Skillets for Durability & Performance
Today, we delve into the world of copper cookware to bring you a comprehensive list of the 22 best copper skillets of the year. All of these have been top-rated by home cooks and professional chefs alike. Let’s start!
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Criteria to Consider for the Best Copper Skillets
Before we get into our list of the best copper cookware, let’s take a moment to understand why copper pans and skillets are such an excellent choice and the criteria you should consider:
- Copper Core and Copper Exterior: Look for skillets with a much copper core for optimal heat distribution and responsiveness to temperature changes. The copper exterior gives the pan its distinctive look and excellent conductor of heat qualities.
- Lining: Traditional copper cookware typically has a tin lining or a stainless steel interior. Tin lining may wear off over time and need re-tinning, while stainless steel is more durable.
- Cast Iron or Stainless Steel Handles: Copper skillets with iron handles or stainless steel handles are more durable and safe to use at high temperatures.
- Compatibility with Induction Cooktops: Not all copper pots and pans work on induction cooktops. If you use induction cooking, look for pans with a stainless steel induction plate.
- Cooking Surface: You may choose between bare copper, nonstick cookware, or a ceramic coating. Consider your cooking habits and the types of food you usually cook.
- Size: From a 10-inch skillet to a 3-quart sauté pan, the size depends on your cooking needs.
- Care: Copper skillets require a bit more care than other types of cookware. They should be cleaned with warm water and gentle soap and occasionally polished with a copper polish to maintain their shine.
20 Best Copper Skillets of [Current Year]
Overall Best Copper Skillet: Mauviel M’heritage MÂ
Hailing from a French village with an 800-year history of copper manufacturing, Mauviel is arguably the best copper cookware brand. And the M’heritage copper cookware line is the best proof to their craftsmanship.
One of the standout features of the Mauviel M’heritage M copper skillet is its exceptional heat conductivity, thanks to its 90% copper exterior and a 10% stainless steel interior mix. Copper is widely regarded as one of the best materials for cookware due to its ability to distribute heat evenly and efficiently. The M’heritage M skillet utilizes a 2.5mm-thick copper exterior that extends throughout the base and up the sides of the pan, ensuring rapid and uniform heat distribution. This allows for precise temperature control and prevents hot spots, providing optimal cooking results.
The interior lining of the Mauviel M’heritage M skillet is made of 18/10 stainless steel. This stainless steel layer provides a non-reactive and durable cooking surface, allowing you to cook a variety of foods without the risk of metallic taste or discoloration. It also makes the skillet compatible with all types of stovetops, including induction.
Another notable advantage of the M’heritage M copper skillet is its superior responsiveness to temperature changes. Copper heats up and cools down quickly, allowing for precise cooking adjustments. When you lower or raise the heat, the skillet’s immediate response gives you greater control over your cooking process.
The Mauviel M’heritage M skillet is also lauded for its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. The handle is ergonomically designed and securely riveted, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The skillet’s overall construction is solid and robust, ensuring long-lasting durability that can withstand the rigors of everyday cooking.
Overall, if you value superior cooking performance, durability, and the timeless beauty of copper cookware, the Mauviel M’heritage M skillet is the absolute best copper skillet money can buy.
Runner Up: Matfer Bourgeat
The Matfer Bourgeat copper skillet is a favorite among professional chefs for its superior heat distribution and responsiveness to temperature changes. The skillet has a stainless steel interior, a copper exterior, and a cast-iron handle, bringing together high-quality materials for outstanding cooking performance.
Lagostina Martellata
Inspired by the Italian Alps, the Lagostina Martellata copper skillet offers a robust cooking experience. It features a copper exterior and a stainless steel interior, with stainless steel handles. This particular set comes with a 10-inch skillet and a 2.5-quart saucepan, making it one of the best copper cookware sets.
Falk Culinair Solid Copper Frying Pan
The Falk Culinair frying pan is a true copper skillet. It is made with solid copper and has a stainless steel lining. This pan offers precise temperature control, making it an excellent choice for delicate dishes like egg whites or acidic foods like lemon juice.
Copper Chef Round Pan
The Copper Chef Round Pan is a versatile pan that can withstand higher temperatures, thanks to its stainless steel induction plate. It also features a nonstick coating, which means less oil is required for cooking, making it a healthier choice.
Copper Chef Black Diamond Nonstick Pan
This Copper Chef Black Diamond pan combines the benefits of copper with the convenience of nonstick cookware. The pan is built with a copper core and coated with a nonstick layer, ensuring easy release of food and quick cleanup.
Anolon Nouvelle Copper Skillet
The Anolon Nouvelle Copper Skillet is a testament to the excellent cooking performance of copper. It has a copper core, double full cap base, and a durable stainless steel interior. This pan is perfect for those looking for the responsiveness of copper at a more affordable price.
De Buyer Prima Matera Fry Pan
The De Buyer Prima Matera Fry Pan features a copper exterior and a stainless steel interior, providing excellent heat conductivity and durability. It’s compatible with all cooktops, including induction, thanks to its stainless steel induction bottom.
Cuisinart Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set
Cuisinart’s Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set is a great investment for those looking to introduce copper into their kitchen. The eight-piece set includes everything you need, from sauté pans to saucepans. Each piece has a copper exterior, an aluminum core for heat distribution, and a stainless steel interior.
Mauviel M’150S Copper and Stainless Steel Fry Pan
The Mauviel M’150S Copper and Stainless Steel Fry Pan is another excellent piece from the iconic French brand. The pan boasts a copper exterior, a stainless steel interior, and sturdy stainless steel handles, ensuring it can stand the test of time.
Gotham Steel Hammered Copper Frying Pan
This pan from Gotham Steel features a copper exterior with a unique hammered finish, a ceramic coating for a nonstick cooking surface, and an induction-compatible base. Its aesthetic appeal is matched by its excellent heat conductivity.
Ruffoni Historia Hammered Copper Fry Pan
This Italian-made Ruffoni Historia Hammered Copper Fry Pan is a work of art. The hammered copper exterior ensures fast and even heat distribution, while the tin interior is easy to clean. The pan also features a beautiful acorn-shaped handle made of cast iron.
Chantal Copper Fusion Fry Pan
Chantal’s Copper Fusion Fry Pan combines copper, carbon steel, and enamel for superior heat distribution and durability. It’s also compatible with induction cooktops and can withstand high heat.
Viking Culinary Copper Stainless Steel Skillet
The Viking Culinary Skillet features a copper exterior, an aluminum alloy core for even heat distribution, and a stainless steel interior. Its stainless steel handles stay cool to the touch, making it a safe choice for home cooks.
Demeyere Atlantis Proline Skillet
Although not a pure copper skillet, the Demeyere Atlantis Proline Skillet deserves a mention for its copper center between two layers of aluminum and a stainless steel cooking surface. This design results in excellent heat distribution and responsiveness, making it a great choice for those who want the benefits of copper without the extra cost.
Calphalon Tri-Ply Copper 10-Inch Omelette Pan
The Calphalon Tri-Ply Copper 10-Inch Omelette Pan is designed for everyday use. With its aluminum core sandwiched between a copper exterior and a stainless steel interior, it offers fast and even heating. The stainless steel handle stays cool even when the pan is on high heat.
All-Clad Copper Core 5-Ply Bonded Fry Pan
The All-Clad Copper Core Fry Pan is known for its 5-ply construction with a copper core, layers of aluminum, and a stainless steel cooking surface. It’s the closest thing to a true copper skillet with the added benefits of durability and easy maintenance.
T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper Bottom 12-Inch Fry Pan
A different alternative to your regular copper skillet is the T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper Bottom Fry Pan. While not a full copper skillet, this pan features a multi-layer base with a copper bottom for quick and even heat distribution. It also has a nonstick interior for easy cooking and cleaning.
Williams Sonoma Professional Copper Skillet
Williams Sonoma’s copper skillet is a standout piece in the world of copper cookware. It features a copper core, sandwiched between layers of aluminum for superior heat conduction and a stainless steel cooking surface. The stainless steel handles are designed for comfort and safety.
Razab Copper Frying Pan Set with Lids
This Razab Copper Frying Pan Set is a great budget-friendly copper skillet.
Pros
- Multiple sizes for various cooking needs. The set comes with three different-sized pans (8″, 9.5″, and 11″)
- Non-stick coating for easy cooking and cleaning
- Heat-resistant, tempered glass lids
Cons
- Food may stick in the center when the pan is very hot
- Pan handles may not be sealed against water intrusion
- Needs proper care to avoid abrasive cleaners or metallic utensils
Old Dutch International Copper Skillet
The Old Dutch International Copper Skillet offers a vintage aesthetic with its solid copper construction and a tin interior. It also features a wooden handle, adding to its rustic charm.
BulbHead Red Copper 10 inch Pan
This copper-infused skillet is an excellent choice for versatile cooking with even heat distribution and a high-quality non-stick surface.
Pros
- Copper-infused and heat-resistant ceramic coating
- Naturally non-stick and scratch-resistant surface
- Oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- Hand wash only, not dishwasher safe
- Requires seasoning with vegetable oil before use
- Use of soft utensils is necessary to prevent scratching
Which one of these top-rated copper skillets is your favorite? And did we miss any you think should be included in this guide? Please leave a comment below – I’d love to hear!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are copper skillets better?
Copper skillets offer superior thermal conductivity, which means they heat up quickly and adjust to temperature changes almost instantly. This allows for precise cooking, especially when preparing delicate dishes like sauces. However, copper is a reactive metal, meaning it can react with acidic foods like tomatoes and vinegar. To prevent this, most of the best copper skillets are lined with a non-reactive material, like stainless steel or tin.
What brand of copper pans does Joanna Gaines use?
Joanna Gaines has been known to use various high-quality cookware brands, although she hasn’t publicly endorsed a specific brand of copper pans.
What are the top 3 best French copper cookware?
France has a rich tradition of copper cookware manufacturing. The top three French brands known for their high-quality copper cookware are Mauviel, Matfer Bourgeat, and De Buyer. Their copper sets often include skillets, saute pans, and saucepans that stand the test of time.
What are the disadvantages of copper coated skillets?
While copper skillets are known for their excellent heat conductivity, they do have some disadvantages. Copper is a reactive metal, which means it can react with acidic foods if not lined with a non-reactive material. Also, copper skillets require more maintenance to keep their shiny look, including regular polishing to prevent the formation of patina. They are typically not dishwasher-safe and need to be hand-washed.
How long do copper coated pans last?
With proper care, copper coated pans can last a long time. The lifespan also depends on the quality of the pan and how often it’s used. High-quality copper cookware, especially individual pieces from reputable brands, can last for decades.
What are the side effects of copper cookware?
Copper is a reactive metal, and when it comes into contact with acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar, it can leach into the food. This is why most copper skillets have a non-reactive lining, like stainless steel or tin. Using unlined copper pans for cooking can lead to copper toxicity, which is why it’s important to choose lined copper cookware.
Is copper or aluminum better for pans?
Both copper and aluminum are excellent conductors of heat. However, copper heats up faster and adjusts to changes in temperature more quickly, making it ideal for precise cooking. Copper pans also tend to be more durable and have a distinctive look, which some people prefer.
Who makes the best copper frying pan?
Several brands are known for their high-quality copper frying pans. Mauviel, a French company with a long history in the industry, is renowned for their copper cookware. Other notable brands include Matfer Bourgeat and Williams Sonoma.
What is the best use for copper cookware?
Copper cookware is excellent for any cooking task that requires precise temperature control. This includes simmering sauces, melting sugar, sautéing, and frying. Copper skillets are particularly good for cooking dishes that are prone to sticking or burning, as the even heat distribution helps to prevent hot spots.
Do chefs use copper pans?
Yes, many professional chefs prefer to use copper pans because of their superior heat conductivity and quick responsiveness to temperature changes. Julia Child, a famous American chef, was well known for her love of French copper cookware.
Why do restaurants use copper pans?
Restaurants often use copper pans for their excellent heat distribution, rapid response to temperature changes, and aesthetic appeal. The superior conductivity of copper pans allows chefs to have precise control over cooking, reducing the chance of overcooking or undercooking food. Additionally, the shiny look of copper pans adds to the professional ambiance of a restaurant kitchen.
s it healthy to cook in copper pans?
Yes, it is healthy to cook in copper pans as long as they are lined with a non-reactive material like stainless steel or tin. Unlined copper can react with acidic foods, leading to copper leaching into the food. However, most of the best copper skillets available today come with a non-reactive lining to prevent this.
What is the healthiest pan to cook with?
The healthiest pans to cook with are those that do not leach harmful substances into food. This includes high-quality stainless steel cookware, ceramic cookware, and copper pans lined with a non-reactive material like stainless steel or tin.
Are copper coated pans worth it?
Copper coated pans can be an excellent investment for those who do a lot of cooking and require precise heat control. While they may require more maintenance compared to other types of cookware, their superior heat distribution, quick responsiveness to temperature changes, and aesthetic appeal make them worth the extra effort and cost.
How can you tell the quality of copper cookware?
The quality of copper cookware can be determined by several factors. These include the thickness of the copper (the thicker, the better for heat distribution), the type of lining used (non-reactive materials like stainless steel or tin are best), the construction (a single piece construction is often more durable), and the reputation of the manufacturer.
How do you identify vintage copper pots?
Vintage copper pots often have a distinctive patina, a greenish layer that forms on copper over time. They may also have signs of hand-hammering and may lack the shiny finish of new copper cookware. The presence of a manufacturer’s stamp or mark could also provide clues about the pot’s age and origin.
Are antique copper pans safe to use?
Antique copper pans can be safe to use if they are lined with a non-reactive material like stainless steel or tin. However, if the lining is worn out or if the pan is made of pure, unlined copper, it’s not recommended for cooking, especially acidic foods. Instead, they can be used for decorative purposes or restored by a professional.
Are copper skillets non stick?
Copper skillets themselves are not non-stick. However, many copper skillets on the market today are lined with a layer of stainless steel or tin and may also have a non-stick coating. This combination allows you to take advantage of the superior heat conductivity of copper, while also benefiting from the easy food release and clean-up offered by non-stick coatings.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing the best copper skillet will largely depend on your cooking style, needs, and budget. But just remember: pay close attention to the materials used in the skillet. For instance, a copper core and copper exterior can provide superior heat distribution, while a stainless steel interior can offer durability. Lastly, proper care is essential to maintain the shine and performance of your copper cookware.
With so many options, it can be challenging to decide which copper skillet is the best for you. But we hope our list of the 20 best copper skillets has helped guide you in the right direction!
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