How to Use a Frying Pan for Perfect Results
By Guy Degrenne - The tableware specialist | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to get the most out of your frying pan with these simple steps, from preheating to cleaning, for delicious meals every time.
Quick answer
To use a frying pan for perfect results, start by preheating it empty, then add oil just before the food, and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain even heat.
Why pan material matters
The material of your frying pan directly affects how it heats and cooks. Stainless steel pans, like those in the Expert collection, offer precise temperature control and even heat distribution thanks to Multiply technology. This makes them ideal for searing and browning, but they require a bit more attention to prevent sticking compared to non-stick pans.
Step-by-step guide to using your frying pan
- Preheat the pan empty: Place your frying pan on the stove over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. A drop of water should sizzle and dance on the surface when it's ready. Skipping preheating can cause food to stick and cook unevenly.
- Add oil just before cooking: Once the pan is hot, add a thin layer of oil with a high smoke point, like canola or avocado oil. Swirl to coat the bottom, then add your food immediately. Adding oil too early can burn and smoke before the food hits the pan.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Leave space between pieces of food so steam can escape and browning can occur. Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing.
- Let food release naturally: After placing food in the pan, let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes. It will release from the surface when a crust has formed. Trying to flip or stir too early can tear the food and leave residue on the pan.
- Clean while still warm: After cooking, allow the pan to cool slightly, then wash with warm soapy water and a soft sponge. For stainless steel, a paste of baking soda can remove stubborn stains. Letting food dry on the pan makes cleaning much harder and can damage the surface over time.
Product facts
- Frying Pan 28 cm: The Expert collection features stainless steel cookware equipped with Multiply technology for precise and even heat distribution. This means you can achieve consistent browning and searing across the entire pan surface, reducing hot spots that can burn food.

Frying Pan 28 cm
