Sauté pan vs. frying pan: what's the difference?

The pan confusion unraveled

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

What is a frying pan really?

A frying pan is the classic among pans. Flat, with low sides, and designed for anything that needs a quick sear. Think eggs, pancakes, or a juicy steak. Fast, hot, and lidless, the frying pan is your go-to for crispy crusts and golden edges.

And what about that snack pan?

The sauté pan is the versatile counterpart of the frying pan. It has higher edges and is suitable for dishes that require more time and moisture, such as risotto, curries, or stews. Want to cover it while cooking? Simply choose a matching lid .

The most important differences at a glance

• Edges: The frying pan has low edges while the sauté pan has high ones.
• Lid: Sauté pans are often suitable for use with lids, which you can add separately. Frying pans are usually used without them.
• Use: Frying pan for short frying, sauté pan for longer preparations.
• Contents: More space in the sauté pan, so handy for larger portions.

When do you choose which pan?

If you use a lot of liquid or want to simmer a dish, the sauté pan is your hero. If you need speed, crispiness, or flipping an omelette without a fuss, you reach for the frying pan. Simple, right?

Materials that make the difference

At Cook & Pan, we work with aluminum and stainless steel because these materials perfectly complement your daily cooking routine. Aluminum heats up incredibly quickly and is pleasantly light to handle. Stainless steel is incredibly strong, durable, and ideal for those who love to bake with power. Each material has its own unique character, and you'll taste that in your dish.

Our favorites in the spotlight

• Stainless steel sauté pan For those who love to bake, roast, and simmer with control and power. Ideal for sauces and stews with a kick.
• Aluminum frying pan : Light, fast and with a non-stick coating that even cheese doesn't stick to.

Multitasking in the kitchen? Leave it 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's oven-safe, provided your handle cooperates, of course.

The frying pan: minimalist yet powerful

Don't be fooled by its simplicity. The frying pan is a master of its niche. One pan with endless possibilities, if you just know how to use it. Crispy fish? Check. Fluffy pancakes? Double check. Quickly fry vegetables? Yay.

Design with a bite

Our pans aren't just functional; they're also a feast for the eyes. They come in colors that make your kitchen pop and shapes that stand out without being overpowering. Cook & Pan believes that cooking is more fun with tools that look the way you feel: distinctive, creative, and a little bit quirky.

Why you actually need both

Think of it like shoes: you need sneakers and dress shoes. The same goes for your kitchen. The sauté pan and the frying pan complement each other like salt and pepper. Together, they form the dream team that will take your cooking to the next level.

Cook & Pan has both and more

Whether you're team crunchy or team creamy, at Cook & Pan you'll find pans that are more than just functional. They're an extension of your style, your taste, and your kitchen. Choose pans that do more than just fry. Discover your favorite in our pan collection and make your kitchen shine with Cook & Pan.