All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Fry Pan Set (10" & 12") Review

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If you only want to buy skillets once, go with stainless steel. There's no coating to wear out, so a well-made stainless steel pan can last a lifetime. All-Clad's D3 is one of the best-known lines in this category, and this set gives you the two sizes most home cooks reach for every day. For a side-by-side comparison, read our OXO Obsidian 10" Carbon Steel Frying Pan review.

Cooking Performance

The aluminum core is the key here. Aluminum spreads heat fast, and because it runs through the whole pan, not just a disc on the bottom, heat reaches the edges too. That means steaks brown evenly, and you don't end up with burnt bits in the middle and pale food around the sides.

The 10-inch pan is great for two chicken breasts, a couple of eggs (with enough butter), or a quick sauté of greens. The 12-inch gives you room for four chicken thighs or a big batch of vegetables without crowding, which helps food brown instead of steam.

Getting Food Not to Stick

Stainless steel isn't nonstick, but food doesn't have to stick either. Follow these steps:

• Preheat the empty pan on medium for 2 to 3 minutes
• Add oil and wait until it shimmers
• Pat meat and fish dry before it goes in
• Don't move food too early. It releases once it's browned.

After a few meals, this becomes second nature.

Cleaning & Maintenance

All-Clad recommends hand washing with warm, soapy water. For stuck-on food, pour in some water while the pan is still warm and let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean.

Over time, you may notice a rainbow tint or cloudy spots. That's normal for stainless steel and doesn't affect cooking. A stainless steel cleaner, such as Bar Keepers Friend, will make the pans shine like new.

Build Quality & Materials

These pans are bonded and assembled in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. The interior is 18/10 stainless steel, which won't react with acidic ingredients or change the taste of food. Stainless steel handles are riveted on for good, and flared rims let you pour off fat or sauce without drips.

Handle Design & Comfort

All-Clad's classic stick handle has a groove down the center. It keeps the pan from rolling in your hand and stays fairly cool on the stovetop. Some people find the narrow shape uncomfortable when lifting the full 12" pan. It's worth knowing before you buy.

For high-heat stir-fries that need more room than a skillet, see our Babish carbon steel wok review, a flat-bottom wok that works on gas, electric and induction.

Who Should Buy It (and Who Shouldn't)

Buy it if you:

• Want two high-quality skillets that will last for decades
• Love searing, browning, and pan sauces
• Cook on induction
• Prefer cookware with no coatings

Skip it if you:

• Mostly cook eggs and delicate foods (pair this set with one nonstick pan)
• Need lightweight cookware
• Need lids included