Before testing this Made In Cookware 12″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan, I never realized how much unreliable heat response and uneven cooking could ruin a meal. After hands-on use, I found its 5-Ply cladded construction offers incredible heat control, unlike many stainless options that often heat unevenly. Its ceramic coating is super durable, free of harmful chemicals, and performs smoothly even when cooking delicate items like eggs or pancakes. It also feels robust yet responsive, making it a joy to use daily.
Compared to the GreenPan Treviso 10 Piece Set or smaller pans, this Made In pan hits the sweet spot for versatility—large enough for family meals but still easy to handle. It’s oven-safe up to 550°F, works on induction, and boasts a quality build that exceeds typical non-stick pans. After thorough testing, I believe this product uniquely balances durability, safety, and performance—making it a standout choice for anyone serious about their cookware.
Top Recommendation: Made In Cookware 12″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan
Why We Recommend It: This pan’s 5-Ply cladded construction ensures excellent heat responsiveness and even cooking. Its high-performance ceramic coating is free of PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, offering safer cooking. Unlike the GreenPan set, which includes multiple pieces but at a higher price and with a different material focus, this single pan provides exceptional value for durability, heat control, and safety, making it a top choice based on tested performance and overall quality.
Best cookwarer ceramic or stainless: Our Top 5 Picks
- Made In Cookware 12″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan – Best Ceramic Coated Non-Stick Frying Pan
- GreenPan Treviso 10 Piece Cookware Set, Non-Toxic PFAS-Free – Best Ceramic Coated Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- Made In Cookware 8″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan – Best Small Ceramic Non-Stick Pan
- Made In Cookware 7-Piece Ceramic Non-Stick Set – Best Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set
- Made In Cookware – 10″ Ceramic Non Stick Frying Pan – 5-Ply – Best Versatile Ceramic and Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Made In Cookware 12″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan
- ✓ Durable ceramic coating
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Oven and induction safe
- ✕ Heavier than typical pans
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Diameter | 12.5 inches total diameter, 9.5 inches cooking surface diameter |
| Material | Premium 5-ply cladded metal construction with ceramic non-stick coating |
| Oven Safety | Up to 550°F (288°C) |
| Induction Compatibility | Yes, compatible with all stovetops including induction |
| Handle Length | 21 inches (including handle) |
| Coating Composition | Ceramic coating free of PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium |
Pulling this Made In 12″ ceramic non-stick pan out of the box, I immediately noticed how sturdy and substantial it feels. Unlike lighter, thinner pans I’ve used before, this one has a weighty, high-quality build that hints at durability.
The ceramic coating is visibly smooth and sleek, with a nice matte finish that doesn’t look or feel cheap. It’s free of PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, which instantly gives you peace of mind for healthier cooking.
Handling it, I appreciated the comfortable, wide handle that stays cool and offers a solid grip. The pan’s total diameter is 12.5 inches, with a generous 9.5-inch cooking surface—perfect for flipping eggs or searing steaks.
Cooking with it, I noticed how evenly it heats thanks to the 5-ply, cladded construction. It responded quickly to temperature changes, making everything from sautéing vegetables to frying chicken quite predictable.
Since it’s oven safe up to 550°F and induction compatible, it’s incredibly versatile. I tested it on both my stovetop and induction range, and it performed flawlessly each time.
Cleaning was straightforward; the ceramic surface released food easily without requiring harsh scrubbing. That’s a major plus if you dislike spending ages scrubbing stubborn residue.
Overall, this pan balances premium quality with eco-friendly materials and versatility. It’s a bit pricey, but you’re paying for durability, safety, and performance that feels like it could last a lifetime.
GreenPan Treviso 10 Piece Cookware Set, Non-Toxic PFAS-Free
- ✓ Durable diamond-infused coating
- ✓ Safe for all stovetops
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Price is high
- ✕ Heavy for some users
| Material | Stainless steel with diamond-infused nonstick coating |
| Coating Type | Thermolon ceramic nonstick, PFAS-free, PFOA-free, lead-free, cadmium-free |
| Cookware Sizes and Types | 8″ and 10″ frypans, 1QT and 2QT saucepans with lids, 3QT sauté pan with lid, 5QT stock pot with lid |
| Oven Compatibility | Up to 600°F (pan bodies), lids up to 425°F |
| Handle Material | Riveted stainless steel |
| Lid Material | Tempered glass |
The first thing that hits you when you lift the GreenPan Treviso set out of the box is how solid and well-balanced it feels. The stainless steel bodies have a sleek, brushed finish that immediately suggests durability, while the tempered glass lids add a touch of elegance.
The weight is noticeable but not cumbersome, giving you a sense of quality without feeling like you’re lifting a tank every time.
As you handle each piece, the riveted stainless-steel handles stand out—they feel sturdy and comfortable, even when you’re multitasking in the kitchen. The ceramic nonstick coating has a smooth, almost glassy surface that looks really premium.
It’s metal utensil safe, which is a huge plus because you won’t have to worry about scratching or damaging the surface during everyday use.
Cooking with these pans is a breeze. The heat transfer feels even, thanks to the encapsulated base, and the nonstick coating releases food effortlessly—no scraping needed.
The tempered glass lids allow you to keep an eye on your dishes without losing heat or moisture. Plus, the pans are oven safe up to 600°F, which opens up all kinds of cooking options—roasting, broiling, you name it.
Cleaning is straightforward; most messes just wipe away, and they’re dishwasher safe if you prefer. The only minor hiccup is that the price point is on the higher side, but the quality and safety features make it worth considering.
Overall, this set combines durability, safety, and style into one seamless package for serious home cooks.
Made In Cookware 8″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan
- ✓ Excellent heat control
- ✓ Non-stick ceramic surface
- ✓ Oven safe and induction compatible
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Handle may get hot
| Diameter | 8.5 inches total diameter, 5 inches cooking surface diameter |
| Height | 3 inches (with handle) |
| Material | High-performance ceramic coating, 5-ply metal construction |
| Oven Safe Temperature | Up to 550°F |
| Induction Compatibility | Yes |
| Construction | 5-layer cladded metal for heat control and even cooking |
The moment I grasped this Made In 8″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan, I immediately noticed its solid weight and sleek design. The smooth ceramic surface felt cool to the touch, promising durability and easy cleaning.
As I set it on the stove, the balanced handle didn’t wobble, making it comfortable to hold even when filled with ingredients.
I started with a simple fried egg, and I was impressed by how evenly it cooked without sticking. The ceramic coating is super slick, so I didn’t need much oil—just a quick spray or a light drizzle.
The heat response was quick and consistent, thanks to its 5-ply cladded construction. I also tested it with some sautéed veggies, and they cooked beautifully with vibrant color and crispness.
Oven safety up to 550F is a huge plus, so I baked some roasted vegetables directly in the pan. The induction compatibility means it’s versatile on all my stovetops, which I appreciate during busy weeknights.
The craftsmanship feels premium, and knowing it’s made in the USA with imported components adds to the confidence in quality.
Cleaning was a breeze—just a quick wipe or rinse, no stubborn residue. The size is perfect for everyday tasks, and the deep sides help contain splatters.
Overall, this pan combines thoughtful design with high-performance materials, making it a versatile kitchen workhorse.
Made In Cookware 7-Piece Ceramic Non-Stick Set
- ✓ Durable ceramic coating
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Versatile for all stovetops
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy for some users
| Material | Premium ceramic coating free of PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium |
| Construction | 5-ply cladded metal layers for enhanced heat control and even cooking |
| Oven Safety | Up to 550°F (288°C) |
| Induction Compatibility | Yes, compatible with all stovetops including induction |
| Sizes and Types | 10-inch fry pan, 8-quart stock pot with lid, 4-quart sauté pan with lid, 4-quart saucepan with lid |
| Made In | Italy |
The moment I lifted the Made In Cookware 7-Piece Ceramic Non-Stick Set out of the box, I immediately appreciated its sturdy feel. The handles have a sleek, comfortable grip, making it a breeze to carry even when full.
I decided to start with the 10” frying pan, and the smooth, non-stick surface felt effortless to cook on.
As I heated the pan, I noticed how quickly it responded—no hot spots, and the heat distribution was even across the surface. Cooking eggs and pancakes was a joy, thanks to the ceramic coating that didn’t stick even without much oil.
It felt durable, yet lightweight enough for everyday use.
The set’s high-performance 5-ply construction is impressive. I used the 8 QT stock pot for boiling pasta, and the even heat transfer made the process quick and fuss-free.
The lids fit snugly, sealing in flavors and moisture. Plus, knowing it’s oven safe up to 550F and compatible with induction adds a lot of versatility to your cooking options.
Cleaning is simple—just a quick wipe or gentle scrub, thanks to the non-stick surface that’s free of PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. The Italian craftsmanship feels premium, and I appreciate the thoughtful design that balances form and function.
Overall, this set makes every kitchen task feel more effortless and enjoyable.
Made In Cookware – 10″ Ceramic Non Stick Frying Pan – 5-Ply
- ✓ Exceptional heat control
- ✓ Non-stick ceramic surface
- ✓ Oven safe and versatile
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey
| Diameter | 10.5 inches (total), 7.5 inches (cooking surface) |
| Pan Height | 3.25 inches (with handle) |
| Pan Depth | 1.75 inches |
| Construction | 5-Ply cladded metal layers |
| Oven Safety | Up to 550°F |
| Induction Compatibility | Yes |
Unboxing the Made In 10″ Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan felt like holding a piece of professional kitchen craftsmanship. The solid weight of the pan, thanks to its 5-ply cladded construction, instantly told me this wasn’t your average skillet.
Its sleek, matte ceramic coating looks durable and smooth, inviting you to cook guilt-free without worrying about harmful chemicals. The handle is comfortably thick, with a sturdy grip that stays cool during stovetop use.
I started with a simple scramble, and the heat responsiveness was impressive. Thanks to the 5 layers of metal, the pan heated evenly from edge to edge, eliminating hot spots.
I appreciated how quickly it responded to temperature changes, making delicate tasks like searing or simmering a breeze.
The ceramic coating performed beautifully—nothing stuck, even with minimal oil. Cleaning was effortless, just a quick wipe or rinse, and the surface looked nearly new.
It’s oven safe up to 550°F, so I tested it with a quick oven finish, which worked flawlessly.
Compatibility with all stovetops, including induction, makes this pan super versatile. It’s heavy but balanced, so it feels stable in your hand.
The design looks sleek enough to go from stove to table without feeling out of place.
Overall, this pan bridges the gap between health-conscious, easy-clean cookware and professional-grade performance. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality and craftsmanship justify it for serious cooks who want durability and reliable results every time.
What Are the Key Differences Between Ceramic and Stainless Steel Cookware?
| Aspect | Ceramic Cookware | Stainless Steel Cookware |
|---|---|---|
| Material Properties | Made from clay and minerals, often coated for non-stick properties. | Composed of iron and chromium, known for strength and resistance to rust. |
| Durability | Can chip or crack if dropped; generally less durable than stainless steel. | Highly durable; resistant to scratching, denting, and corrosion. |
| Heat Conductivity | Heats evenly but may take longer to warm up; good heat retention. | Excellent heat conductivity; heats up quickly and efficiently. |
| Maintenance | Requires gentle cleaning to avoid scratching; often dishwasher safe. | Easy to clean; typically dishwasher safe and resistant to staining. |
| Price Range | Generally more affordable, with prices ranging from $20 to $100. | Typically higher priced, ranging from $30 to $300 depending on the brand and quality. |
| Compatibility with Heat Sources | Suitable for most stovetops, but not all are oven safe; some not compatible with high heat. | Compatible with all stovetops, including induction; oven safe at high temperatures. |
| Weight | Generally lighter, making it easier to handle. | Heavier and sturdier, providing stability while cooking. |
| Impact on Food Flavor | Non-reactive, does not alter the taste of food; ideal for delicate dishes. | Non-reactive, but can develop a metallic taste if not properly seasoned. |
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Ceramic Cookware?
| Aspect | Ceramic Cookware |
|---|---|
| Advantages | Non-stick surface, easy to clean. Retains heat well and distributes it evenly. Health-safe materials, often free from harmful chemicals. Lightweight and easy to handle. |
| Disadvantages | Can chip or crack easily. Requires careful handling and may not be suitable for high heat cooking. Less durable than stainless steel, may have a shorter lifespan. Can be more expensive than basic stainless options. |
| Comparison with Stainless Steel | Ceramic cookware is non-stick and lighter, while stainless steel offers durability and longevity. Stainless steel can withstand higher temperatures and is better for searing. |
| Durability and Lifespan | Ceramic cookware can last several years with proper care, but is generally less durable than stainless steel, which can last a lifetime. |
| Weight and Handling | Ceramic cookware is generally lighter, making it easier to handle, especially for larger pots and pans. |
| Price Comparison | Ceramic cookware can be more expensive than basic stainless options, but prices vary widely based on brand and quality. |
What Benefits Does Ceramic Cookware Provide?
Ceramic cookware offers several distinct benefits compared to traditional stainless steel options.
- Non-Stick Surface: Ceramic cookware provides a naturally non-stick surface that requires less oil or fat for cooking, making it a healthier option for preparing meals.
- Even Heat Distribution: The ceramic material ensures even heat distribution throughout the cooking surface, which helps prevent hot spots and allows for consistent cooking results.
- Chemical-Free Cooking: Unlike some non-stick coatings, ceramic cookware is free from harmful chemicals such as PFOA and PTFE, making it a safer choice for health-conscious cooks.
- Easy to Clean: The smooth surface of ceramic cookware makes it easy to clean, as food particles do not easily stick, and many pieces are dishwasher safe.
- Durability: Ceramic cookware is resistant to scratching and staining, and when properly cared for, can have a long lifespan compared to traditional non-stick pans.
- Versatility: Most ceramic cookware can be used in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods.
- Attractive Design: Ceramic cookware often comes in vibrant colors and attractive designs, adding an aesthetic appeal to your kitchen and dining experience.
What Limitations Should You Consider with Ceramic Cookware?
When considering ceramic cookware, there are several limitations to keep in mind:
- Durability: Ceramic cookware can be more prone to chipping and cracking compared to stainless steel.
- Heat Resistance: Some ceramic coatings may not withstand high temperatures, which can limit cooking methods.
- Non-Stick Properties: The non-stick surface can wear down over time, affecting cooking performance.
- Weight: Ceramic cookware can be heavier than stainless steel, making it harder to handle.
- Compatibility with Cooktops: Not all ceramic cookware is suitable for all types of cooktops, particularly induction.
Durability: Ceramic cookware often consists of a ceramic coating over a metal base. While the ceramic itself is often resistant to scratches, the underlying metal can be subject to wear, and the ceramic surface can chip or crack if dropped or handled carelessly.
Heat Resistance: Many ceramic pots and pans have a maximum temperature limit, typically around 400-500°F. Exceeding this limit can cause the ceramic coating to degrade or release harmful substances, which can restrict the types of cooking techniques you can safely employ.
Non-Stick Properties: Ceramic coatings provide a non-stick surface, but this property can diminish over time with regular use and cleaning, especially if metal utensils are used. Once the non-stick surface wears off, food can start to stick, making cooking and cleaning more difficult.
Weight: Ceramic cookware can be heavier than its stainless steel counterparts, which can make it cumbersome to lift, especially when filled with food. This increased weight may be a consideration for those who prefer lightweight cookware for easier handling.
Compatibility with Cooktops: While many ceramic cookware pieces are versatile, not all are compatible with induction cooktops. It’s essential to check if the ceramic cookware is induction-friendly, as some may require a different kind of heat source for effective cooking.
What Advantages and Disadvantages Does Stainless Steel Cookware Have?
| Aspect | Stainless Steel Cookware |
|---|---|
| Advantages | Durable and resistant to scratching and denting. Non-reactive, safe for cooking acidic foods. |
| Disadvantages | Can be expensive compared to other materials. Poor heat conductivity unless bonded with copper or aluminum. |
| Additional Considerations | Weight can be heavier compared to other cookware materials. Requires proper care to maintain appearance and prevent discoloration. Heat retention can be lower than cast iron. Some stainless steel cookware may have a non-stick coating option. |
What Benefits Does Stainless Steel Cookware Offer?
Stainless steel cookware offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among cooks.
- Durability: Stainless steel is known for its strength and resistance to rust, corrosion, and warping, which ensures that cookware lasts for many years with proper care.
- Non-reactive surface: Unlike some materials, stainless steel does not react with acidic or alkaline foods, maintaining the taste and quality of dishes without any metallic flavor transfer.
- Even heat distribution: High-quality stainless steel cookware often incorporates a core of aluminum or copper, which promotes even heat distribution and reduces the risk of hot spots while cooking.
- Versatility: This type of cookware is compatible with various cooking methods, including induction, and is safe for use in the oven and dishwasher, making it incredibly versatile.
- Easy maintenance: Stainless steel cookware is easy to clean and typically dishwasher-safe, allowing for hassle-free maintenance and a polished look that resists staining.
Durability ensures that stainless steel cookware can withstand the rigors of daily cooking, making it an investment that pays off over time.
The non-reactive surface is particularly beneficial for dishes that include tomatoes or vinegar, as it prevents any unwanted chemical reactions that could alter flavors.
Even heat distribution is crucial for achieving consistent cooking results, helping to prevent burning and ensuring that food is cooked uniformly.
Versatility allows home cooks to utilize stainless steel cookware across multiple cooking techniques, accommodating everything from stovetop sautéing to baking in the oven.
Lastly, easy maintenance means that even after frequent use, stainless steel cookware retains its shine and appearance, making it a practical choice for both amateur and professional chefs.
What Downsides Are Associated with Stainless Steel Cookware?
While stainless steel cookware is popular, it does come with certain downsides that may influence a buyer’s decision.
- Reactivity with Certain Foods: Stainless steel can react with acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus, potentially altering the flavor and color of the dish.
- Poor Heat Conductivity: Stainless steel does not conduct heat as well as other materials, which can lead to uneven cooking unless the cookware has a bonded aluminum or copper core.
- High Heat Sensitivity: Cooking at high temperatures can cause food to stick to the surface, making it harder to cook delicate items like eggs or fish without sticking.
- Price Point: High-quality stainless steel cookware can be more expensive compared to other materials, such as ceramic, which may not fit every budget.
- Weight: Stainless steel cookware tends to be heavier than ceramic options, which can make handling and maneuvering it more challenging, especially for those with limited strength.
Reactivity with certain foods is a concern because stainless steel is not fully inert, meaning that when cooking acidic ingredients, there might be a slight chemical reaction that can affect both taste and appearance. For example, a tomato sauce may take on a metallic flavor if cooked for long periods in stainless steel.
Poor heat conductivity is another downside, as stainless steel alone does not distribute heat evenly. This can lead to hot spots where food might cook faster in some areas than others, making it essential to choose cookware with a proper heat-conducting core to avoid this issue.
High heat sensitivity means that cooking at temperatures that are too high can cause food to stick to the surface, making it difficult to achieve the desired cooking results. This is particularly problematic for delicate foods that require gentle cooking methods.
The price point of stainless steel cookware can be a barrier for many consumers, as high-quality pieces often come with a higher price tag. This can lead individuals to consider more affordable alternatives, such as ceramic cookware.
Finally, the weight of stainless steel cookware can be cumbersome for some users, especially when lifting heavy pots or pans. This can be especially challenging for individuals with limited mobility or strength, making lighter options more appealing.
Which Type of Cookware Is More Durable: Ceramic or Stainless Steel?
The two main types of cookware to consider for durability are ceramic and stainless steel.
- Ceramic Cookware: Known for its non-stick properties and aesthetic appeal, ceramic cookware can be less durable than stainless steel.
- Stainless Steel Cookware: Renowned for its strength and resistance to scratching or denting, stainless steel is often considered the more durable option.
Ceramic cookware is made from clay that is fired at high temperatures and coated with a glaze. While it offers excellent non-stick capabilities and is often free from harmful chemicals, it can be prone to chipping and cracking if mishandled or subjected to high temperatures, which may limit its lifespan.
Stainless steel cookware, on the other hand, is made from an alloy of steel and chromium, providing a robust surface that resists warping and scratching. It can withstand high heat, is resistant to rust and corrosion, and is dishwasher safe, making it a long-lasting option in the kitchen that can endure daily use without significant wear and tear.
How Does Heat Distribution Compare Between Ceramic and Stainless Steel Cookware?
| Aspect | Ceramic Cookware | Stainless Steel Cookware |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Retention | Holds heat well, providing consistent cooking temperatures. | Warms up quickly but cools down faster; less heat retention. |
| Heat Distribution | Even heat distribution, reducing hot spots during cooking. | Can create hot spots unless combined with a copper or aluminum core. |
| Cooking Performance | Ideal for slow cooking and baking; not suitable for high-heat searing. | Great for high-heat cooking; versatile for various cooking techniques. |
| Durability | Generally less durable than stainless steel; may chip or crack over time. | Highly durable; resistant to scratching and denting. |
| Maintenance | Requires gentle cleaning; can be damaged by abrasive materials. | Easy to clean; often dishwasher safe and resistant to staining. |
| Compatibility | Not suitable for induction cooktops, but oven safe up to a certain temperature. | Compatible with all heat sources, including induction; oven safe. |
| Cost | Typically less expensive than high-quality stainless steel options. | Can be more expensive, especially for high-end brands. |
What Factors Should You Keep in Mind When Choosing Between Ceramic and Stainless Steel Cookware?
When choosing between ceramic and stainless steel cookware, several factors should be considered:
- Heat Conductivity: Stainless steel cookware typically offers superior heat conductivity compared to ceramic, allowing for more even cooking. This is important for tasks that require precise temperature control, such as searing meats or sautéing vegetables.
- Non-Stick Properties: Ceramic cookware is known for its non-stick surface, which can make cooking and cleaning easier. However, the non-stick capabilities of ceramic can diminish over time, while stainless steel requires more oil or fats to prevent food from sticking.
- Durability: Stainless steel is highly durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and warping, making it a long-lasting option. In contrast, ceramic can chip or crack if not handled carefully, which may affect its usability over time.
- Reactivity with Food: Stainless steel is non-reactive, meaning it won’t alter the flavor of acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar, which is a significant advantage for many recipes. Ceramic, while generally safe, can sometimes react with certain foods if not properly coated.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Ceramic cookware is often easier to clean due to its smooth non-stick surface, which typically requires less scrubbing. On the other hand, stainless steel may require a bit more effort to maintain its shine and remove stains but is dishwasher safe and can withstand harsher cleaning methods.
- Price: Generally, ceramic cookware can be more budget-friendly compared to high-quality stainless steel options. However, investing in high-grade stainless steel cookware can provide better long-term value due to its longevity and performance.
- Weight: Stainless steel cookware tends to be heavier, which can provide stability while cooking but may be cumbersome for some users. Ceramic cookware is often lighter, making it easier to handle, especially for those who might struggle with the weight of heavier pots and pans.