Tramontina Proline Fry Pan Set Cookware Review
Note that two of the major PFAS of concern, PFOA and PFOS, are no longer used in nonstick cookware. They were considered long-chain PFAS and have largely been replaced by short-chain versions (often known as GenX or PFBS) that in theory break down faster. All our picks have nonstick coatings produced using these newer, short-chain PFAS. Although it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison, a pre-seasoned cast-iron skillet has decent initial release and will become smoother as you use it over time. We’re not trying to claim that cast iron is as slick out of the box as a new nonstick skillet, because it’s definitely not.
This set includes a 1.5-quart saucepan and 3-quart saucepan with lids, an 8-quart stockpot with cover, and a 10-inch skillet—all the basic pans you need in your kitchen. All you might need to add is an extra nonstick pan or a cast-iron Dutch oven to round out your collection. Enameled cast iron cookware can last decades if you treat it right. That means no harshly scraping off dried food, no scrubbing with strong brushes, and no dishwasher! I almost cried when someone scratched my frying pan by washing it too vigorously.
The base has a layer of copper enclosed in aluminum and covered with stainless steel that makes it suitable for any cooktop, including induction. The pans gave a nice sear to scallops and steak without any major sticking—a major plus. Additionally, any leftover fond stuck to the bottom of the pot—one of the few times anything’s stuck to these—easily came right off. Cooking omelettes in this set will be a little trickier, but still doable. To find the best stainless steel cookware sets, we’ve tested dozens of the top-rated cookware sets alongside each other to see how they really perform. During each test, we evaluated the design, durability, heating capabilities, versatility, and ease of cleaning for every pot.
However, if price isn’t a barrier, you’ll certainly be happy with an All-Clad stainless-steel skillet. In recent years, Teflon (and PTFE in general) has been under scrutiny, mostly because it is produced using per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals. But there’s little to no PFAS present in the finished product, so PTFE should be safe to cook on if used correctly. The wide shape enables quick and accurate flipping without the use of a spatula. And even if you’re more inclined to use a turner, the wide flare offers more room to maneuver under food than straight sides do. A bent lip is a bonus that makes it easy to pour off liquids (like excess grease or batter) with minimal dripping.
Tramontina is careful to assure us the non-stick coating is PTFE (Teflon) free. Softening the pan’s hard and flat steel handle is an eye-catching red silicone soft-grip. This soft-grip can withstand temperatures of up to 204 degrees Celsius, while the fry pan itself is good up to 260 degrees Celsius. So you can transfer the entire pan from the stove to the oven to finish cooking. The pan measures just under 50cm from end to end, and fits nicely in my oven. Just remember to use pot holders if you did not remove the soft-grip before the transfer — it is easy to forget that.
Known for its durability and superior heat retention, this handy pan allows you to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise, and fry a variety of different foods. It is seasoned with oil for a “natural, easy-release finish,” making the pan easy to hand-wash. These pans can safely transfer from stovetop to oven to broiler and are even safe to use over a campfire. For a truly stunning set that performs as well as it looks, we recommend this Le Creuset stainless steel set. The comprehensive 10-piece set features a three-layer construction that prevents scorching and promotes even heating, with aluminum sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel. The lids feature the brand’s iconic three-ring design and easy-grab knob and come with a built-in steam vent to prevent overflow.
The Anolon Advanced Skillet is a sturdy oven-safe anodized aluminum skillet with a riveted, silicone-coated handle, flared shape, and bent lip. As noted by the American Cancer Society, PFAS chemicals are barely present, if at all, in the final PTFE product coating your nonstick pan. Nonstick pans seem tramontina pans to be safe to cook with if used correctly at moderate temperatures, below 400 degrees Fahrenheit (medium-low to medium on a stovetop range). But we don’t recommend using pans with this coating over searing high heat, since it can degrade the PTFE, releasing fumes that are toxic enough to kill birds.
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time). Lesley Stockton is a senior staff writer reporting on all things cooking and entertaining for Wirecutter.
Anna Perling is a former staff writer covering kitchen gear at Wirecutter. During her time at Wirecutter, she reported on various topics Tramontina online discount store including sports bras, board games, and light bulbs. Previously she wrote food and lifestyle pieces for Saveur and Kinfolk magazines.