How To Make Your Stainless Steel Skillet Nonstick

Stainless steel skillets are prized for their durability, versatility and ease of maintenance, making them a staple in many kitchens. However, one common challenge is that food can stick to them, unlike their nonstick or cast iron counterparts.

While it’s not possible to transform a stainless steel pan into a permanently nonstick surface in the same way you can season a cast iron skillet, there are techniques to greatly reduce sticking and make cooking with stainless steel smoother and more enjoyable.

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Myth or Fact: Seasoning Stainless Steel

Firstly, it’s important to address the question of whether you can season a stainless steel pan like cast iron to create a nonstick surface. The short answer is no; the process and outcome are not the same.

Cast iron skillets are seasoned by baking oil onto the pan’s surface, creating a protective and nonstick layer. This is effective due to cast iron’s porous nature, which allows it to absorb and retain the oil.

Stainless steel, on the other hand, is nonporous and does not hold onto the seasoning layer in the same way. Thus, the traditional seasoning process is not effective for creating a permanent nonstick surface on stainless steel.

How to Season a Stainless Steel Pan

Seasoning a stainless steel pan is more about creating a temporary nonstick surface than permanently altering the pan’s properties. This temporary seasoning can be particularly useful when cooking proteins like fish or eggs, which are notorious for sticking. Here’s how to season your stainless steel pan:

Preparing your pan

• Preheat the pan: Begin by preheating your pan on medium heat for about 2–3 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to open up the tiny pores on the surface of the stainless steel. You can test the pan’s readiness by sprinkling a few drops of water onto it; if the water forms mercury-like balls that glide around, the pan is ready.
• Add oil with a high smoke point: Once your pan is preheated, add a thin layer of oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado, grapeseed or canola oil. Allow the oil to heat until it starts to shimmer but not smoke. This is your cue that the pan is ready for cooking.
• Cook at the right temperature: Add your food to the pan, ensuring it’s not too cold as this can cause the proteins to seize and stick. If you’re cooking meat, for example, letting it sit out of the fridge for a bit to come closer to room temperature can help.

Cooking tips for a nonstick experience

• Pat food dry: Before adding your food to the pan, pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface of your food can turn into steam, preventing proper searing and causing sticking.
• Do not overcrowd: Crowding the pan can lower the temperature too much, leading to sticking and uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Wait for the natural release: When searing meats or other proteins, give them time to form a crust before trying to flip them. They will naturally release from the pan once properly seared.

Maintenance tips for stainless steel

While a stainless steel skillet cannot be seasoned to become permanently nonstick in the same manner as cast iron, adopting specific maintenance techniques can greatly minimize food sticking. Here are some tips for proper cleaning and care:

• Let it cool completely: After cooking, allow the pan to cool before washing. Using cold water on a hot pan can cause warping. Clean with warm, soapy water and a sponge or soft cloth to preserve the smooth surface.
• Deglazing for stubborn residues: For tough food residues, deglaze the pan while it’s still warm. Add water or broth, bring it to a boil, and use a wooden spoon to scrape off the bits. This method also adds flavor to sauces and is a chef-approved technique for cleaning.
• Dry immediately: After washing, dry the skillet immediately to prevent water spots and rust. If water spots do occur, they can often be removed with a little vinegar.
• Occasional deep clean: For a deeper clean, create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the surface of the pan. Gently scrub, rinse and dry. This can help maintain the pan’s shine and remove any built-up residue.

Hungry for more? From skillets and sauté pans to pans designed for every day—and every meal—our collection of Stainless Steel Cookware has just the piece you’re looking for.

Shop Our Stainless Steel Cookware Collection