Sauté pan vs frying pan: what’s actually the difference?

Unraveling the pan confusion

We’ve all been there. You’re in the kitchen, recipe in one hand, pan in the other, but is this a sauté pan or a frying pan? Spoiler: it does matter. And no, the difference isn’t just the lid.

What exactly is a frying pan?

A frying pan is the classic among pots and pans. Flat, with low sides, and made for everything that needs to be seared quickly. Think eggs, pancakes, or a juicy steak. Fast, hot, and without a lid, the frying pan is your go-to for crispy crusts and golden edges.

And what about the sauté pan?

The sauté pan is the versatile sibling of the frying pan. With higher sides and suitable for dishes that need more time and moisture like risotto, curry, or stews. Want to cover it while cooking? You can easily add a matching lid.

The main differences at a glance

• Sides: The frying pan has low sides while the sauté pan has high sides.
• Lid: Sauté pans are often designed for use with a lid, which you can add separately. Frying pans are usually used without one.
• Use: Frying pan for quick frying, sauté pan for longer cooking.
• Capacity: More space in the sauté pan, so handy for larger portions.

When to choose which pan

If you use a lot of liquid or want to let a dish simmer, the sauté pan is your hero. If it’s about speed, crispiness, or flipping an omelet without drama, reach for the frying pan. Simple, right?

Materials that make the difference

At Cook & Pan we work with aluminium and stainless steel because these materials perfectly match your daily cooking rhythm. Aluminium heats up super fast and keeps it nice and light in your hand. Stainless steel is tough, durable, and ideal for those who like to cook with power. Each material has its own character and you can taste that in your dish.

Our favorites in the spotlight

• Stainless steel sauté pan: For those who like to bake, roast, and stew with control and strength. Perfect for sauces and stews with a kick.
• Aluminium frying pan: Light, fast, and with a non-stick coating that even cheese won’t stick to.

Multitasking in the kitchen? Leave that to the sauté pan

The sauté pan is your savior in the what’s-for-dinner panic. From pasta sauce to shakshuka, this pan handles it all. And yes, it can go in the oven as long as the handle cooperates, of course.

The frying pan: minimalist but mighty

Don’t be fooled by its simplicity. The frying pan is a pro in its niche. One pan with endless possibilities if you know how to use it. Crispy fish? Check. Fluffy pancakes? Double check. Quick veggie stir-fry? Hoppakee.

Design with a bite

Our pots and pans are not only functional but also a joy to look at. In colors that make your kitchen pop and shapes that stand out without overdoing it. Cook & Pan believes cooking gets more fun with tools that look like how you feel: bold, creative, and a little bit cheeky.

Why you actually just need both

Think of it like shoes: you need sneakers and dress shoes. Same in your kitchen. The sauté pan and frying pan complement each other like salt and pepper. Together they form the dream team that takes your cooking skills to the next level.

Cook & Pan has both and more

Whether you’re team crispy or team creamy, at Cook & Pan you’ll find pots and pans that are more than just functional. They’re an extension of your style, your taste, and your kitchen. Choose pots and pans that do more than just cook. Discover your favorite in our pots and pans collection and let your kitchen shine with Cook & Pan.