Small kitchen spaces are made more efficient with the help of the best electric skillet.
Electric skillets are just that, a skillet and electric stovetop built into one. They heat fast, pack well, and offer a range of versatility.
Honestly, I wish I got one sooner. I spent a long time living without an indoor cooking range when we were building our tiny cabin. I certainly could have used one then!
Even if you have a range at home, you may find a good electric skillet to come in handy. Think of them as an additional burner during holidays or your portable solution for parties.
There are numerous advantages to owning an electric skillet. In particular, the Presto 06857 16-Inch Electric Skillet. This model ranked at the top of the list thanks to its efficient design and overall performance.
There were a few other models that also made the cut due to some spatula-worthy attributes.
Read on to find my recommendations along with a nifty buying guide to help find which one is right for you.
Best Electric Skillet: Presto 06857 16-Inch Electric Skillet
There is one electric skillet that truly stands above the rest and that is the Presto 06857 16-Inch Electric Skillet. This is an all-around exceptional option given the price.
The first attribute I noticed was the folding design. I’ve had to cook in some very small kitchens so I truly can appreciate any space-saving design. With the Presto 06857, you can remove the skillet base and handles to easily stash them inside.
The unit is easy to use, easy to clean and has solid cooking performance. The rectangular pan is deep and wide enough to tackle a variety of cooking projects.
Additionally, the pan has an indent that doubles as a pour spout and utensil holder. And while this may sound superficial of me, the design isn’t an eyesore like some other models.
The one area where this electric skillet could be improved is by having a higher heat range. Also, the nonstick coating can easily wear over time if not treated right.
Considering the impressive features, this is a highly desirable option at an affordable price.
Features: 1500-watts | Heats to 400°F | Dual-purpose pour spout/utensil holder
Pros
- Removable base and handles for better storage
- Ample cooking surface area
- Stay-cool handles
- Easy to clean
- Good for larger servings
Cons
- Other options reach higher temperatures
- Nonstick surface may wear overtime
Best Budget Option: BELLA Copper Ceramic Titanium Electric Skillet
The BELLA Copper Ceramic Titanium Electric Skillet will give you quite a bang for your buck. Cooking is made easy with the nonstick surface and tempered glass lid.
Steam, roast, pan-fry or sauté your meal as long as the ingredients can fit in the 12×12-inch skillet. The unit heats up quicker than other models thanks to the titanium and heavy cast aluminum.
Meanwhile, the slick ceramic nonstick coating makes it much easier to clean. Remove the temperature control probe and the manufacturer claims you can fully immerse the skillet in water to wash.
This is a feature I highly appreciate. I once had a crockpot I used for years that didn’t have a detachable power cord. You can imagine what a pain that was to clean.
I should point out that as is with most bargains, longevity is a concern. The nonstick surface may wear with time, especially if using metal utensils. With nonstick cookware, I always recommend using wood or silicone utensils to prolong the life of non-stick coatings.
With that in mind, the BELLA Copper Ceramic Titanium Electric Skillet is best suited for those who want an electric skillet for occasional use.
Features: 1200-watts | Heats to 450°F | Tempered glass lid
Pros
- Very inexpensive
- Heats up quickly
- Lightweight
Cons
- Longevity is a concern
- Not compatible with metal utensils
Best High End Option: Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert
What you get with the Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert besides quality is versatility. Built from titanium with a ceramic, nonstick coating, you can cook everything from shellfish to fondue to braised meats with easy food release.
I love that this model includes a plate designed for grilling as well as a deep dish for other meals. This means you can serve up a big pot of pho and sear some flank steak to go with it.
Turn the dial up to 480°F to get a good sear then dial it back down to 176°F to keep your food warm. You even have the option of steaming shellfish thanks to the incorporated vented steamer.
For versatility like this, you will pay a higher price. However, you may find it well worth the price if multifunctionality is high up on your checklist.
Features: 1350-watts | Heats to 480°F | Deep dish pan and grilling plate included
Pros
- Multifunctional
- Quality construction
- Wide temperature range
Cons
- Not the most attractive option
Best Ceramic Electric Skillet: GreenLife CC003725-002
GreenLife makes one of our favorite ceramic cookware sets, so it comes as no surprise that their ceramic electric skillet made the list. The GreenLife CC003725-002 features a quaint design powered to bake, grill, steam, sauté, or fry.
The entire unit, minus the temperature control, is dishwasher-safe which is like music to my ears. Meanwhile, the chemical-free non-stick surface offers a quick release for grilling up burgers or flipping omelets.
However, those looking for super high heat should consider another option. The GreenLife skillet only reaches 400°F. That said, it should be plenty of heat for most of your cooking needs.
Features: 1200-watts | Heats to 400°F | PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium free
Pros
- Easy to clean
- User-friendly
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Other options offer higher temperatures
Best Stainless Steel Option: All-Clad SK492
All-Clad is one of the leaders in the cookware industry. With an appliance like the All-Clad SK492, it’s not hard to see why.
This hefty electric skillet can hold up to 7-quarts of food. Better yet, the cooking insert is oven safe up to 600°F. Just be sure you remove all other components first.
Constructed from quality stainless steel, the All-Clad SK492 is highly durable. This option also offers considerably even heat distribution.
Cooking temperatures range from 250°F to 450°F. Regardless of the heat setting, the deep rimmed skillet does well to prevent splattering.
The only thing that’s really hard to swallow is the price. Although, if you love stainless steel cookware and covet versatility, you may find the price to be well worth it.
Features: 1800-watts | Heats to 450°F | Oven safe cooking insert up to 600°F
Pros
- Versatile
- Quality stainless steel
- Large cooking capacity
Cons
- Very expensive
- Nonstick cooking surface may scratch overtime
Best Deep Dish Skillet: CRUX Extra Deep Nonstick Electric Skillet
Shallow electric skillets can easily cause a mess. I find this to be especially true if I’m trying to make something that’s oozing with cheesy goodness. Luckily, I came across a viable solution, the CRUX Extra Deep Nonstick Electric Skillet.
This electric skillet features a 3-inch deep nonstick copper ceramic pan to contain all your stir-frys and super cheesy lasagnas. With deep sides also comes a higher capacity for food at 6-quarts.
The adjustable temperature gauge and glass lid serve well to give you precise heat control. I highly appreciate both as I always wind up catching myself boiling my grains instead of simmering them.
The one drawback with this deep-dish skillet is the depth and width may lead to uneven heating. The design also makes it a bit more difficult to read the temperature setting.
Aside from that, the CRUX Extra Deep Nonstick Electric Skillet offers home cooks numerous benefits at a steal of a price.
Features: 1300-watts | Heats to 400°F | 3-inch deep skillet
Pros
- Deep rimmed skillet
- Large capacity
- Sophisticated design
Cons
- Design may cause uneven heat distribution
- Temperature control hard to read
Best Personal Sized Electric Skillet: Nesco ES08 8-Inch Electric Skillet
The Nesco ES08 8-Inch Electric Skillet is just the right dimensions for those wanting a more compact, personal size option.
Built for single servings, the Nesco ES08 works well with limited kitchen space. This is good for dorm rooms, efficiency kitchens, or even RVs. The compact size is also portable so you can take it where you need it.
The die-cast aluminum pan has a nonstick surface that features adjustable heat. Additionally, the handles stay cool to the touch during cooking.
The main drawback is only the glass cover is dishwasher safe. That and the small size doesn’t let you upgrade to a larger skillet on the off chance you need it to serve a crowd. However, if you’re looking to heat up a simple meal, this inexpensive option is a great choice.
Features: 1800-watts | Heats to 425°F | 8-inch skillet
Pros
- Very affordable
- Compact size
- Portable
Cons
- Harder to clean
- Other options may last longer
Best for Families: DASH Family Sized Rapid Heat Electric Skillet
For large families or large servings, the DASH Family Sized Rapid Heat Electric Skillet has you covered. This nonstick electric skillet features a 5-quart capacity. That can feed about six people, according to the manufacturer.
The tempered glass lids let you sneak a peak to ensure everything is cooking properly. The glass is even lined with a silicone seal to trap heat. Meanwhile, the anti-slip feet stabilize the skillet on the counter as you flip and stir.
Heating up to 450°F, the Dash offers adjustable temperature control so you can lower or raise the cooking temperature accordingly. This model is also offered in three colors.
The one gripe is the pan can’t be removed from the body, making it harder to clean. Luckily, the cord can be removed before hand-washing.
Features: 1400-watts | Heats to 450°F | Available in red, aqua, and black
Pros
- Great for larger servings
- High-temperature setting
- Sturdy
Cons
- Harder to clean than some options
Related: Our Cookware Buying Guide. How To Find Your Perfect Set.
Buying Guide
With so many different features and options, finding the best electric skillet can be a challenging task. Especially if you have never used one before. Have no fear. Here’s a breakdown highlighting all the different attributes you should consider before buying.
Lifestyle
Before getting into all the perks, take a second to consider your lifestyle. Do you entertain a lot? Are you a vanlifer or RV roamer? Do you love efficient cooking?
Electric skillets are ideal for compact kitchens, great for camping with hookups, and double as excellent food warmers when serving meals up family-style. I use mine when it’s way too hot to use the oven inside and way too hot to stand next to a smoking grill outside.
The electric skillet you choose should match your lifestyle. Keep this in mind when going over all the different features that come with all the different designs.
Function
What can you do with an electric skillet? Oh, let me count the ways. Fry, sauté, steam, simmer, sear, braise, grill, bake, and boil. These skillets are versatile, to say the least.
However, not every function is available on every model. For example, the DASH Family Sized Rapid Heat Electric Skillet and the Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert have a wide range of versatile cooking functions. Always check the model before you buy.
Temperature Control
Most electric skillets come with a temperature probe that is operated by a dial. The dial works like your stovetop range, except they usually feature a degree setting.
Most will have a low warm setting and around 400°F as the high setting. There are some exceptions like the Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert which claims it can reach up to 480°F.
Just make sure the temperature options match your cooking needs. Also, check the design to be sure the control dial is easy to use and read.
Material
Like your frying pan, electric skillets are constructed from an assortment of materials. You have your ceramic, stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum options. Some of these may come with a coated nonstick surface for easier cooking and minimal cleanup.
I recommend choosing an option that is made from the same material as your favorite pan at home. Odds are if you already like cooking with that type of material, you’ll also feel comfortable with the electric version.
Shape
Electric skillets come in four shapes: circle, square, oval, and rectangle. Which one you should opt for depends on what you’re cooking along with your countertop design.
Square skillets tend to be more compact. Meanwhile, circle designs are most likely to resemble your traditional skillet at home.
On the other hand, rectangle and oval designs are good for searing meat or cooking foods that require more pan surface area. Like the 16-inch Presto 06857 which I find to have ample room.
With that, be sure your counter space can fit the electric skillet. You’ll also want to be sure there is some spare room for prep.
Lids
Tempered glass or solid lid is a matter of preference. I tend to prefer the glass option so I can keep an eye on my dish. This is particularly nice when I’m making something like seafood paella and want to check to see if the rice is done without releasing any heat.
The downside to glass is it doesn’t insulate heat as well. There’s also the concern of shattering even with tempered glass.
Size
Think about the skillet you use on the stove. Is there a particular size you find works best for your cooking?
Like traditional skillets, electric skillets can range anywhere from 8- to 16-inches in size. However, there is no swapping out your favorite 16-inch veggie sauté pan for a 8-inch egg frying pan when it comes to electric skillets.
If you want the ability to make single or multiple portions at the same time, opt for the bigger size if space allows. With that in mind, double-check your storage and kitchen counter space situation.
You’ll need plenty of space to cook, prep, and store. I find nothing more frustrating than having an awesome kitchen appliance to use and absolutely zero space for my prep work and final plate.
Portability
How do you plan to use your electric skillet? Is it going to stay glued to your countertop? Or do you plan on taking it to a friend’s house for dinner parties?
If the electric skillet is never going to leave your kitchen, portability should factor low on the consideration list. On the other hand, if you plan on hauling it around, you’ll benefit from a more portable design.
I recommend looking for compact sizes and removable features. Anything small that packs down and is lightweight will be easier to transport.
Cleaning
Some electric skillets are designed for easier cleaning. Nonstick surfaces, removable temperature probes, water immersible units sans probe, removable pans, and dishwasher-safe components can save you a lot of hassle. Any nonstick units should avoid the dishwasher just to play it safe. A soft brush and some soapy water should do the trick.
Remember that crockpot I mentioned? I wish it had a removable power cord – although, it was free so it’s hard to complain.
I recommend giving any model a full inspection before making a decision. You may find features that are more of a hassle to clean than use, which isn’t fun for anyone.
Which Electric Skillet Is Right For You?
Electric skillets come with many perks you won’t find with your built-in range. Plus, they can be just as versatile as your traditional skillet.
Before you buy, you’ll want to consider the cooking performance, shape, and size of the unit. For instance, the CRUX Extra Deep Nonstick Electric Skillet is designed for larger portions. Meanwhile, the Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d’Expert has great cooking capabilities. Of course, there’s my favorite, the Presto 06857 16-Inch Electric Skillet. It checks all the boxes and the price is on point. If you want the best all-around, then this is the one I recommend.
