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Best Pans for Deep Frying

Q: What kind of pan is good for deep frying?

The best kinds of pans for deep frying process are cast iron pots, woks, metal pots, etc. Thanks to their depth, they are able to keep your food submerged in the oil for that hot and crispy layer of batter.

by Dino Paccino
Last Updated: April 12, 2023

Best Pans for Frying Food Top Picks

1. Editor's Pick - Caraway Dutch Oven
2. Best Durability - Misen Dutch Oven
3. Best Budget - Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan
4. Best Versatility - Hexclad 14" Hybrid Wok (with Lid)
5. Best Stainless Steel - Sardel 8QT Stock Pot

List of 7 Top Rated Deep Frying Pans 2023

1. Caraway Dutch Oven

When it comes to deep frying food, our top pick for this list is undoubtedly this magnificent and utterly gorgeous Caraway Dutch Oven. It’s ceramic, sophisticated exterior we tested out makes it a wonderful addition to your kitchen and it is an ideal option for deep frying a variety of foods including meats, vegetables, etc.

This deep frying pot is 6.5 QT and it comes with a stylish lid. It is extremely spacious allowing meats and vegetables to be completely submerged in the hot oil when deep frying. The thick bottom keeps your oil from burning too quickly. This pot can also be used for a variety of other cooking tasks such as bread baking, stews, soups, etc. And, its non-toxic ceramic-coated interior makes it extremely durable and allows for a fun cooking experience.

After we tested it thoroughly, we noticed that its naturally slick nonstick interior ensures that the batter around your deep-fried food does not stick to the bottom or the sides of the pot. This is also a fantastic option for shallow frying foods as it already required less fat than its competitors to cook your food.

This Caraway pot is also free of PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium, keeping your foods healthy for consumption. Unlike other nonstick coating, this does not negatively react to heat or release harmful fumes which could prove to be hazardous to your health. It is also totally oven safe up to 550ºF and can be used on all stovetops.

The Caraway Dutch Oven and the Misen Dutch Oven are both popular cookware options and are some of the best pans for deep frying, but they differ in their construction and features. The Caraway Dutch Oven features a ceramic-coated interior, while the Misen Dutch Oven has a stainless steel construction. The Caraway Dutch Oven comes with a custom lid and ergonomic handles, while the Misen Dutch Oven has a wider diameter and lower profile for more even cooking.

Pros

This deep frying pot features a ceramic based interior coating which is nonstick but also doesn't react aggressively to oil or have it splashing out.
It is extremely spacious which lets you add a large amount of meats or vegetables to deep fry at a time.
This deep frying pan also keeps the oil from burning too quickly.
It is completely PTFE, PFOA, PFAs, lead, and cadmium free which makes it a healthier choice.
This deep frying pot is oven friendly up to 550ºF.
It can be used on all stovetops.

Cons

This can be expensive.
Some users have complained that the exterior paint scratches and peels easily.
Critics have pointed out that its handles get quite hot when cooking.

2. Misen Dutch Oven

This Misen Dutch oven we tried out is packed with four layers of premium enamel which offers lifelong durability and a nearly nonstick cooking surface. This premium hand-enameled cast iron core creates four separately heated layers that promise longevity and optimal durability even after the most demanding everyday use.

Additionally, it comes with a large base diameter that’s 1-2 inches / 2.5-5 cm wider than competitor brands. This deep frying pan allows features a spacious interior which is perfect for deep frying, shallow frying, searing, and browning.

Its wide handles offer a comfortable and sturdy grip even if you have oven mitts on so you can carry the pot easily even if it is filled to the brim. It also provides a safety element if your pot is full of hot oil.

This outstanding Misen pot is also oven-safe up to 500º F and it is compatible with all stovetops. It can also be washed in a dishwasher, although the manufacturers recommend gently hand washing it to enjoy longevity.

This is a fine update to the classic Misen cookware and this version includes a grill pan lid that provides another use for this deep frying pot.

Comparing the Misen Dutch Oven and the Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan, these are two different types of cookware, with different uses and features. The Misen Dutch Oven is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, while the Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan is designed specifically for sautéing and frying. The Misen Dutch Oven has a stainless steel construction and a wider diameter, while the Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan has a nonstick ceramic coating and a smaller diameter.

Pros

The Misen frying pot is extremely durable and is made to last for a lifetime.
It features 4 separately hand enamel coating which ensures even cooking and durability.
It comes with a grill pan top which can be used for searing and browning, making it multipurpose and worth every penny.
This cast iron dutch oven is dishwasher safe, but hand wash is recommended.
It is oven safe up to 500º F.

Cons

It can be pricey.
Some buyers have complained that when food is added to the pot, it is extremely heavy and difficult to carry.
Its handles may get very hot when you are cooking in it.

3. Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan

Want to enjoy your favorite home-cooked deep-fried food on a budget? We bring to you this unmatched, tried, and tested Gotham steel saute pan that comes with endless benefits and an unbelievably affordable price tag.

This jumbo cooker and one of the best pans for deep frying is not just multipurpose and perfect for searing, braising, and sauteing, but it can be used to heat up oil and prepare the best-fried chicken or vegetables you have ever tasted! It is designed to adjust quickly to temperature changes and the high side contains splatter and avoids food spills when you stir or toss over high heat.

This also provides an element of security because when deep frying, you are dealing with extremely hot oil. Its nonstick cooking interior is coated thrice and reinforced with diamonds to enhance flavors and the cooking experience. Additionally, this deep frying pot is also 100% nontoxic and is free of PFOA, PFOS, lead, and cadmium, making it a healthier choice.

After we carefully tested it, we noticed that it required very little oil or butter to saute or shallow fry foods, which makes it better for your health and easy on the wallet too!

You can also easily use metal utensils with it when cooking without fearing tears or cracks in the nonstick surface. But, there’s more! This deep frying pot is also dishwasher safe which saves you time cleaning up and it is compatible with all cooktops.

Comparing the Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan and the Hexclad 14″ Hybrid Wok, both are designed for sautéing and frying, but they differ in their construction and features. The Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan has a ceramic coating that provides nonstick properties, while the Hexclad 14″ Hybrid Wok has a unique tri-ply construction that combines stainless steel and nonstick materials. The Hexclad 14″ Hybrid Wok also comes with a lid, while the Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan does not.

Pros

It is extremely budget-friendly.
This pan is multipurpose and can also be used for searing, sauteing, stir frying, browning, shallow frying, braising, in addition to deep frying food.
The nonstick cooking interior is coated thrice and reinforced with diamonds to enhance flavors.
For ultimate deep frying success, this pot also keeps the oil from splattering out when you are stirring with a spatula.
It is compatible with all stovetops.
It is dishwasher friendly.
This pot is also 100% non toxic and is free of PFOA, PFOS, lead, and cadmium, making it a healthier choice.
Its stainless steel handles stay cool when cooking and are ergonomically designed for left or right handed people with a unique Y-shape that also lets heat escape, keeping it from becoming hot to the touch.
It comes with a 10 year guarantee.

Cons

Many users have complained about poor customer service for this brand.
The bottom paint may begin to chip off after the first few months of use.
Some buyers have complained that this pot is not scratch resistant and should not be exposed to electric mixers, hand whisks, and you should even avoid metal tools.
High heat exposure may damage the bottom exterior of the pot.

4. Hexclad 14" Hybrid Wok (with Lid)

There is one champion when it comes to cooking versatility and it is this Hexclad hybrid wok that you can easily use as a frying pan for deep frying food. With a spacious interior and a stunning finish, this wok is a must-have for all home cooks.

This 14″ wok can stir fry, shallow fry, sear, boil, simmer, and deep fry your foods to perfection. It is especially handy for when you are cooking for the entire family or a gathering at your place, thanks to the spacious interior which allows for ample food to be cooked inside at a time.

Its versatility truly sets it apart from other options we evaluated as it can be used for all kinds of cooking styles. This Hexclad wok also comes with excellent temperature control and it is induction friendly. It is PFOA-free, which makes it a healthier option than most competitor brands.

We even tested it by popping it in the oven as it is safe to put inside up to 500º F and it worked wonders! In addition, you can also use metal utensils when cooking in it without fearing chip or crack in the nonstick coating.

Its handles remain cool even when you are cooking on high heat and this wok is backed by a lifetime warranty! The Hexclad 14″ Hybrid Wok (with Lid) is a versatile piece of cookware that is designed for sautéing and stir-frying, while the Sardel 8QT Stock Pot is designed for cooking soups and stews. The Hexclad Wok has a unique tri-ply construction that combines stainless steel and nonstick materials, while the Sardel Stock Pot has a classic stainless steel construction and a larger capacity.

Pros

This woke is versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking including stir frying food, braising, searing, boiling, simmering, in addition to deep frying.
The spacious interior allows for cooking large quantities of food for family and friends.
It comes with temperature control and it is PFOA free.
It is also oven-safe and can be used to bake or crisp up food.
You can use metal utensils when cooking in it without fearing any chipping of the nonstick coating.
Its handles remain cool even when you are cooking.
It is backed by lifetime warranty.

Cons

It is quite expensive compared to other woks.
This wok can also be quite heavy to lift and carry when it is filled with food or hot oil, which also makes it a bit dangerous if you do not have a steady hold.
Some users have complained that food bits may stick to the bottom if enough oil is not added

5. Sardel 8QT Stock Pot

This Sardel stock pot is the ideal stainless steel deep pot for frying all kinds of meats, vegetables, etc. Thanks to its large and spacious design, it can fit ample food inside in one go while you are deep frying.

Despite this, it isn’t too bulky or heavy enough to clutter your kitchen. Its smooth, 5-ply durable stainless steel finish with a similar lid adds to its aesthetic appeal, and unlike many other stainless steel pans, this one keeps your food from gluing to the bottom.

You can cook the stock, make soups, or easily deep fry a variety of foods on its 9″ cooking surface. We also tested it in our labs to check its induction compatibility and we were impressed with how it is also oven-safe up to 500*F.

The hollow heat-resistant handles are sturdy enough to carry boiling oil or hot water, etc. Using an easy-to-grip, round design, these are comfortable to hold. We also tested this frying pot to check how easy it is to clean afterward and all you need is a little soap and water to wipe off the grease with a sponge.

The Sardel 8QT Stock Pot has a classic stainless steel construction and a larger capacity, while the Caraway Dutch Oven features a ceramic-coated interior and comes with a custom lid and ergonomic handles. The Sardel Stock Pot is ideal for cooking soups, stews, and large batches of food, while the Caraway Dutch Oven is more versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking tasks. Easily one of the best pans for deep frying!

Pros

This frying pot is completely stainless steel and corrosion resistant.
You can easily deep fry or use it to prepare stock, soups, etc.
The 5-ply stainless steel finish adds to its durability.
It is oven safe up to 500*F.
It comes with spacious cooking area.
It is compatible with all stove types.

Cons

It may be heavy to carry when it is filled with food or liquids.
While it is dishwasher safe, it is recommended to wash it with your hands.
It may be too big for smaller homes, RVs, or dorms.

6. CAROTE Nonstick Deep Frying Pan

If you are looking to add a zest of luxury to your kitchen, then we recommend this outrageously gorgeous CAROTE deep frying pan. Its stunning, rustic flare just makes it a terrific choice for those who enjoy great cooking perks but also beautiful cookware.

But, it isn’t just pretty to look it; in fact, it is 5x more durable when it comes it its nonstick properties. It is constructed with natural granite materials with 100% PFOA coating. The smooth interior finish releases your food easily without gluing it to the pan. After we tested and compared it to its competitors, we noticed that it was far more durable than traditional cookware.

This pan we tested is also easy to clean, thanks to the rivetless interior that can simply be wiped clean. It keeps food bits and grease from getting stuck to its crevices. Rinsing it with soapy water should be enough to make it squeaky clean again!

This flat-bottomed wok heats instantly and evenly while also preserving heat for longer. The side walls are straight and high, keeping your food secure inside and preventing spills.

Pros

This frying pan is extremely aesthetically pleasing.
It is 5x more durable compared to traditional cookware thanks to its nonstick granite coating.
The natural granite material interior is 100% PFOA free.
This frying pot comes with a rivetless interior which makes it easier to clean without worrying about food bits stuck in the crevices.
It heats instantly and preserves heat for longer.
It is extremely budget-friendly.

Cons

Some buyers have complained that it was delivered with a powdery, scorched cooking surface that left a black stain on the hands.
Its lid may not fit perfectly for all pieces.
The pot's nonstick coating may begin to peel off after a while of use.

7. Made In Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

This stunning Made In Dutch oven is one of the sturdiest and most resilient cookware for frying in the market out of all of the choices we tried out. It is designed to last a lifetime thanks to its intricate hand-enameled layers that make it perfect even for daily, rough, and demanding use.

Besides frying, you can even make stews, bake bread, cook soups, braise short ribs, etc. It is crafted with high-performance cast iron that provides excellent heat retention. It locks flavor in your food and its unique Cloud Cover lid comes with tiny bumps and dimples that trap moisture and heat to self-baste your stews.

It is also induction compatible and does not require to be seasoned. It is also completely oven safe up to 580*F.

Pros

It is extremely durable due to its separately fired, 4 layer hand enameled cast iron dutch oven layers.
It is multipurpose and can be used for frying, preparing stews, braising ribs, baking breads, etc.
This Made In pot is also aesthetically pleasing.
It is induction compatible and does not need seasoning.
It is oven safe up to 580*F.

Cons

It can be extremely heavy to carry when filled with food.
This frying pot is also expensive.
It is not dishwasher safe and require hand washing.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Pans for Deep Frying Food

Before you invest your money in any cookware for deep frying, we advise that you consider some important factors that decide what the best option for you may be. After all, good quality deep frying pots and pans can be pricey so it is crucial to know exactly what you are paying for and whether it suits your cooking requirements.

Material and Construction

You can find a variety of frying pans in several different metals such as cast iron, aluminum core, and stainless steel. Modern, higher-end cookware can be available in ceramic and copper pans which can also be a bit pricey. You can also find combination pans that are constructed with two different materials such as stainless steel and copper bottom which have become increasingly popular. This also depends on your stovetop. If you have an induction stove, you may want to stick to frying cookware that has ferrous metals in it.

Size

You can purchase virtually any size of the best pans for deep frying. If you cook for a large family, then consider getting one that is at least 12 inches in diameter. But, keep in mind that the larger your frying pan, the farther out it reaches from the stove’s heat source. This can result in cold spots and uneven heating. If you are a one-person household, even an egg frying pan can often be ample for cooking basic recipes.

Price

As with every cookware, price is an important factor to consider. If you are looking for high-end, durable, and long-lasting frying pots, and pans, then ceramic or granite nonstick pans with no PFOA can be pricey. Aluminum core pans are usually more durable and extremely cheap nonstick pans are always a poor option since they can be a health hazard and will ultimately cost you more as they need to be replaced often.

Space

When frying food, you will require a lot of space to heat up the oil and submerge the ingredients fully to get the ultimate crisp. This means that whatever pan or pot you use for frying, should give you enough depth to add your meats and vegetables and keep them fully submerged in the boiling oil.

Best Pans for Deep Frying	Material and Construction	Size	Price	Space
Caraway Dutch Oven	4/5	3/5	2/5	3/5
Misen Dutch Oven	4/5	4/5	3/5	3/5
Gotham Steel Nonstick Sauté Pan	2/5	3/5	4/5	4/5
Hexclad 14″ Hybrid Wok (with Lid)	4/5	4/5	3/5	3/5
Sardel 8QT Stock Pot	4/5	5/5	3/5	2/5
CAROTE Nonstick Deep Frying Pan	3/5	3/5	4/5	4/5
Made In Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven	5/5	4/5	3/5	3/5

FAQs About the Best Pan for Frying

What is the difference between a skillet and a frying pan?

The major difference between frying pans and skillets is that skillets are not shallow like the former. They are deeper than most ordinary frying pans and will often have a separate lid. Deep frying pans, dutch ovens, and woks can be shallow and also used for deep frying. A simple frying pan is great for shallow frying, searing, and browning food thanks to its flatter bottoms.

What kind of pan is good for deep frying?

The best kinds of pans for the deep frying process are cast iron pots, woks, metal pots, etc. Thanks to their depth, they are able to keep your food submerged in the oil for that hot and crispy layer of batter.

Do you need a special pan to deep fry?

Yes, you will need a special pan to deep fry. It should at least be deep enough to contain 4-6 cups of oil which is necessary for deep frying foods. Pots that are 6-8 QT are usually ideal for this purpose.

Is it OK to deep fry in nonstick pan?

Yes, it is OK to deep fry in nonstick pans but it is recommended that you avoid it because of PTFE and other toxins in the nonstick coating which react to heat negatively and may release fumes that cause eye burning, coughing, breathing problems, etc. PTFE has a melting point of approximately 620*F and Teflon recommends not to heat your pot over 500*F as this may release harmful fumes.

The Bottom Line: The Best Pans for Deep Frying

Our top pick for the best pan for frying foods is the Caraway Dutch Oven. Its sleek and ultra-modern design, countless benefits, and oven-safe properties make it the perfect all-rounder for any kitchen. Out of all of the pots and pans we evaluated, this one impressed us in every aspect.

Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?

Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!

Dino Paccino

Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.