Incredible Pans for Cooking Fish & What to Look for (Non-toxic)

Cooking delicate fish can be tricky since the wrong pan or baking dish can easily turn your perfectly good fillet into a sticky, broken mess. Luckily, there are many incredible pans for cooking fish that make tender, flaky fillets without having to use a non-stick pan.

From oven-safe baking dishes to fully non-toxic pans designed for searing, frying, and roasting, there are options for every cooking style. 

Whether you prefer stainless steel, ceramic, or cast iron, this list has got you covered, and we’ll even help you figure out which one is best for different types of fish! 

Say goodbye to mangled, stuck-to-the-pan fillets and hello to perfectly tender and flaky fish every time.

Short on time? The best pans for cooking fish

Best overall: All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Pan
Best for searing: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
The best for stir-frying: Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan
Best for roasting: Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
Best ceramic non-stick: GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Anodized Ceramic Pan
The best baking pan for fish: STAUB Ceramics Square Covered Baking Dish
Best for deep-frying fish: Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Stockpot with Cover
Best for grilling fish: Lodge Cast Iron Blacklock Square Grill Pan

What to consider before buying pans for cooking fish

Before you rush to purchase the first pan you see, there are important things to consider that can make all the difference when it comes to cooking fish just the way you like. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Material

The material your pan is made of can have a big impact on toxicity, its durability, and the way your fish cooks. For a perfect sear, cast iron and stainless steel are excellent choices due to their exceptional heat retention and distribution. If you’re looking for easy cleanup, non-stick ceramic pans have super slick surfaces that prevent food from sticking without harmful chemicals.

RELATED: See our post on stainless steel vs cast iron cookware

Durability

Choosing a high-quality, durable pan made from materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or carbon steel will help it last for many years if not for generations.

Non-toxicity

When it comes to your health, it’s important to pick a pan made with non-toxic materials. Stainless steel, cast iron, glass, and ceramic are all known for being the most non-toxic options in cookware.

Size

Of course, make sure to choose a fish pan that’s the right size for the amount of fish you plan to cook! A pan that’s too small can crowd the fish and stop it from cooking evenly.  Plus, it drops the temperature of the cooking oil, causing your fish to absorb more than it usually would. I find that a 12” pan works well for most.

Cooking style

Think about your preferred cooking style for fish, whether it’s grilling, searing, frying, baking, or roasting. Different pans do better for different cooking styles, so choose one that you’ll use most often.

• Grilling: Cast iron or stainless steel grill pans with ridges or grill marks for that classic grilled look. 
• Searing: For searing fish, heavy-bottomed stainless steel or cast iron pan is a great choice. 
• Deep frying: Non-stick Dutch oven made of ceramic or a ceramic coating, or a deep, heavy-bottomed stainless steel or cast iron pan can be used for frying fish. 5-quart capacity and up is best.
• Pan-frying: Cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum with a non-toxic coating, flat bottom, and low sides for easy flipping.
• Baking: Ceramic, glass, and non-toxic metal pans like stainless steel, hard anodized aluminum, or carbon steel are great for baking fish. 
• Roasting: A heavy-duty cast iron, stainless steel pan, or a non-toxic aluminum pan work well for roasting fish. These materials heat up evenly, can withstand high temperatures, and offer excellent heat retention.
• Sauteing and Stir-frying: A wok or a flat-bottomed skillet with high sides is perfect for sauteing or stir-frying fish. 
• Broiling: A broiler pan with a non-stick coating is the best option. 

Price

Pans for cooking fish can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, and it’s important to find one that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality pan can pay off in the long run by lasting longer and performing better.

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Best overall pan for cooking fish: All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Pan

Material: Stainless steel
Great for: Searing, pan frying, sauteing, roasting, stir-frying, broiling, and baking
Price at time of posting: $130

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When it comes to cooking fish to perfection, having the right pan or skillet that’s versatile, durable, non-toxic, and easy to maintain makes all the difference. That’s why we love the All-Clad D3 3-ply stainless steel fry pan for its unbeatable combination of performance and durability. 

It cooks fresh fish just right, creating crispy skin and moist, flaky flesh. Its tri-ply construction offers even heating across the surface, so your fish cooks evenly without any hot spots. And the stainless steel material is non-reactive, so you won’t have to worry about any leaching or metallic flavors interfering with the delicate taste of your fish with this skillet.

But what really sets the All-Clad pan apart is its thoughtful design. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold and stays cool even when the pan is hot. And the wide, flat base of the skillet has plenty of room for your fish to cook without overcrowding (especially the 12”). 

The pan is oven and broiler safe up to 600°F, so you can easily get an excellent sear on your fish before finishing your fish in the oven without having to transfer it to a different pan. 

The All-Clad D3 3-ply stainless steel fry pan is a must-have highly versatile pan for cooking up your favorite fish dishes. It does require proper preheating to unlock its non-stick properties, but with its superior heat distribution, heating speed, durable construction, and thoughtful design, it’s sure to become your go-to pan for years to come, and not only for fish!

Best searing pan for cooking fish: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

Material: Cast iron
Great for: Searing, pan-frying, sauteing, outdoor grilling, roasting, baking, and low-broiling fish
Price at time of posting: $50

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Finally, experience restaurant-quality fish dishes in the comfort of your home with the Lodge cast iron skillet – the ultimate catch in cast iron cooking. Thanks to its unmatched heat retention and even cooking, you’ll get perfectly crispy skin and moist, tender flesh every time. Unlike other materials, and with proper maintenance, cast iron has a natural oil coating that prevents fish, eggs, batter, or anything from sticking to the pan, which means that each fillet is seared to perfection without tearing or breaking apart. 

Crafted from premium-quality cast iron, this skillet delivers unbeatable durability and versatility. You can sear fish to perfection on the stovetop, and then finish it off in the oven for perfectly crispy skin and moist, tender flesh. It can be used on any stovetop, even over a fire! 

Plus with its timeless design, the Lodge cast iron skillet is as much a centerpiece as it is a cooking tool. With proper care, the Lodge cast iron skillet can last for generations.

With its exceptional performance and durability, The Lodge cast iron skillet is a must-have for any serious home cook who doesn’t mind caring for their cookware. It will take your fish to a whole new level of crispiness, and you’ll be amazed by the mouth-watering results. There’s nothing quite like cooking with cast iron, that’s why so many home cooks swear by it and find it to be an essential part of their cooking arsenal.

RELATED: Already love cast iron? Check out our detailed post on hard-nitrided cast iron as cookware!

Best stir-frying pan for cooking fish: Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan

Material: Carbon steel
Great for: Searing, sauteing, roasting, stir-frying, baking, and pan-frying fish
Price at time of posting: $87

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The Matfer Bourgeat black carbon steel fry pan is another fantastic option for cooking fish because it heats up quickly and evenly, making it a great option for stir-frying fish and seafood like shrimp. Its high sides also make it ideal for larger quantities of fish and vegetables.

Its natural non-stick coating makes it easy to toss and flip ingredients without sticking and lets you effortlessly slide your fish fillets onto your plate. 

The Matfer Bourgeat black carbon steel pan’s durability and versatile design also make it ideal for many different cooking tasks, beyond just fish. Carbon steel is a strong and sturdy material that is built to withstand heavy use, so this pan will last you for years to come with proper care. Its simple and classic design also means that it will be a timeless addition to your kitchen. 

Use it to sear steaks, sauté vegetables, or even bake a frittata. And because it’s oven safe, you can move it from the stovetop to the oven with ease.

Overall, while the Matfer Bourgeat black carbon steel pan needs a little maintenance to keep it non-stick, it offers excellent value for money, because it’s not only versatile and long-lasting but also offers superior cooking performance. It’s a great staple to any kitchen, especially when it comes to fish pans!

The best roasting pan for cooking fish: Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Skillet

Material: Enameled cast iron
Great for: Searing, pan-frying, sautéing, baking, roasting, and broiling
Price at time of posting: $250

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The Le Creuset signature enameled cast iron skillet is a fantastic option for cooking fish. Its cast iron base maintains an even and consistent temperature through the cooking process, which makes it especially great for slow cooking methods like roasting or braising. 

The enamel coating is a non-reactive surface that won’t interact with acidic ingredients, like tomatoes or lemon juice, making it best for dishes that require slow cooking methods like braising and roasting. 

Also, the enamel coating eliminates the need for seasoning and careful maintenance that’s required for traditional cast iron. The durable enamel coating also protects the cast iron base from scratches, chipping, and cracking. Overall, it’s much easier to care for than traditional cast iron pans though it may need a little more oil to be as non-stick.

It’s so versatile too, perfect for everything from searing steaks and baking desserts to frying eggs, and the enameled surface makes it easy to clean.

If you don’t mind the weight, the Le Creuset signature enameled cast iron skillet is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their cooking game and create delicious, perfectly cooked fish every time with less maintenance than traditional cast iron. 

Best ceramic non-stick pan for cooking fish:GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Anodized Ceramic Pan

Material: Diamond-infused ceramic
Great for: Searing, sautéing, pan-frying, baking, roasting, broiling, and stir-frying fish
Price: $69

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The GreenPan Valencia Pro hard anodized ceramic nonstick frying pan is the best ceramic non-stick option for cooking fish for several reasons. 

It’s made with a hard anodized construction core that offers fantastic durability. Plus the diamond-infused ceramic nonstick coating offers amazing cooking performance, so you can get that perfectly cooked, tender fish interior with ease. It’s reinforced with diamonds, which makes it even more durable and scratch-resistant than most ceramic coatings. So, you can use metal utensils without worrying about damaging the nonstick coating (though it’s still best not to).

The versatility of the GreenPan Valencia Pro is impressive too. You can sauté vegetables, create a delicious seafood stir-fry, or even cook delicate fish fillets without worrying about them sticking to the pan. And with its completely non-toxic coating, you can be sure that your food will be cooked in the healthiest way possible.

If you’re looking for a ceramic non-stick pan that’s perfect for cooking fish, the GreenPan Valencia Pro is a top contender. It delivers amazing results without the need for excessive oil or butter. 

While it may not be suitable for those who prefer ultra-crispy skin or cooking at very high temperatures to get that golden crisp, the GreenPan Valencia Pro is an excellent choice for seafood lovers who want an easy-to-maintain, non-toxic, and durable non-stick pan that can handle a variety of cooking tasks at lower temperatures.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The best truly non-toxic waffle makers to buy

Best baking pan for cooking fish:STAUB Ceramics Square Covered Baking Dish

Material: Enamel glazed ceramic
Great for: Baking, roasting, broiling, and serving fish
Price: $99

See it on Amazon

The ultimate baking dish for fish baking is hands down this STAUB ceramics-covered baking dish. This dish is not only beautiful with its classic design and vibrant colors, but it’s also highly functional and durable. 

This baking dish is a true workhorse in the kitchen, and one of its standout features is its ability to evenly distribute heat. That means perfectly cooked fish fillets every single time.

Its 9″ x 9″ size is perfect for baking fillets, casseroles, lasagnas, roasted vegetables, and more. And with its lid, your fish will stay moist and flavorful without drying out. Plus, the lid also makes it easy to transport your dish to your next dinner party or potluck. When you’re done cooking, simply pop it in the dishwasher for easy cleanup!

But perhaps the best part of this dish is that its enamel coating is excellent quality and resistant to scratches, stains, and chips. So, you can enjoy cooking with this non-toxic baking dish for years to come without worrying about it losing its quality or beauty. In fact, it’s safe for the freezer, oven, broiler, dishwasher, and even the microwave!

The STAUB ceramics baking dish is the perfect baking dish for anyone who has the budget and wants a beautiful, functional, and durable dish that can handle a variety of dishes, including perfectly flaky fish.

Best for deep-frying fish:Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Stockpot with Cover

Material: Stainless steel
Great for: Deep-frying, boiling, poaching, simmering, and steaming fish
Price: $55

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The Cuisinart chef’s classic stainless steel 6-quart stockpot with cover is the perfect choice for deep frying fish. It’s superior to other types of cookware for cooking fish because of its exceptional heat distribution and retention, thanks to its aluminum-encapsulated base. This ensures that your fish cooks evenly and comes out perfectly every time.

Not only is the Cuisinart chef’s classic stockpot durable, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It can be used for a variety of cooking styles, including boiling, simmering, and even making soups and stews. The stockpot’s stainless steel construction is resistant to rust and tarnishing, making it an excellent investment for any kitchen.

One standout feature of this stockpot is its tempered glass cover, which allows you to monitor your food without having to remove the lid. This feature is especially handy when frying fish, as you can easily keep an eye on the color of your fish to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.

The Cuisinart chef’s classic stockpot is perfect for home cooks who want a durable and versatile cookware option that can handle a variety of cooking styles. It’s not ideal for those who prefer nonstick options or for those who want a pan that’s suitable for high-temperature cooking.

If you’re looking for a stockpot that can handle all your cooking needs, from boiling pasta to deep frying fish, the Cuisinart chef’s classic stainless steel stockpot is an excellent choice. With its superior heat distribution, tempered glass cover, and versatile construction, this stockpot is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Best grilling pan for cooking fish:Lodge Cast Iron Blacklock Square Grill Pan

Material: Cast iron
Great for: Grilling, searing, and sautéing fish
Price: $100

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Get perfectly grilled fish with gorgeous grill lines using the Lodge Cast Iron Blacklock square grill pan. The cast iron base offers incredible heat retention and distribution which is key for evenly cooking fish. It can be used indoors or outdoors on the grill too for maximum versatility.

The Lodge Cast Iron Blacklock square grill pan also features a unique square shape that lets you cook multiple fish fillets at once, making it the perfect choice for feeding a large crowd. Plus, its low edges make flipping delicate fish a breeze!

Its pre-seasoned surface is naturally non-stick, so you can grill up your fish without any sticking mishaps. And with regular seasoning, this pan’s non-stick surface only gets better with time, ensuring you’ll have a go-to fish grilling pan for years to come.

Not only is the Lodge Cast Iron Blacklock Square Grill Pan perfect for grilling fish, but it’s also great for cooking other meats and vegetables. Its versatility and durability make it a staple tool in any kitchen, and because it’s made from cast iron, it’s built to last for generations!

This pan is best for anyone who loves grilling fish and wants to achieve perfect grilled fish every time. However, it may not be suitable for those who prefer lighter-weight pans or who have difficulty lifting heavier cookware. Though, I have very weak wrists and I still find my heavy cast iron to be some of my favorites!

Picking fish for different cooking methods

Different types of fish and pans do better with different cooking methods. For example, delicate fish like tilapia or soles are best suited for pan-frying or baking, while denser fish like salmon or swordfish do well with grilling or broiling. 

Steaming:

• Cod
• Salmon
• Halibut
• Trout

Tips for cooking fish

Now that you’ve found your perfect pan for fish, it’s time to make sure you’re cooking it the right way:

Pick high-quality and sustainably-sourced fresh cuts

No cooking method can transform a low-quality, store-bought cut into a freshly-caught filet. Fresh cuts of wild-caught seafood will deliver the best results. Avoid farm-raised options and look for fish that is firm, moist, and has a clean smell. 

Preheat your pan or grill

Preheating your pan fully is key to helping the fish cook evenly, develop a crispy exterior, and prevent sticking. Add the oil after it’s been preheated and let it heat until it’s glistening before adding your fish.

Season your fish

Adding salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your fish before cooking is a must to enhance its flavor. Lemon juice, herbs, and spices also add a delicious kick.

Pat seafood dry before cooking

Excess moisture cause the fish to become mushy and overcooked. Use paper towels to gently pat the surface of the fish before placing it in the pan.

Don’t overcook your fish

Overcooked fish is dry and tough. Cook your fish until it is just cooked through and still moist and flaky. Using a meat thermometer can help you determine when your fish is fully cooked. For most types of fish, an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is recommended.

Start skin-side down

To get an even, crispy texture without overcooking, place the fish skin-side down when pan-frying, grilling, or searing. Although the skin may initially stick, it will eventually loosen as it cooks. Leave the skin-side down for around 3/4 of the total cooking time, and flip it over once your spatula can slide underneath. Cooking the other side for only a few minutes will give it a crisp, flaky finish.

Only flip once

Avoid overhandling the fish while cooking otherwise you risk it falling apart and not browning to a golden color.

Avoid overcrowding your pan

Cooking a few filets at a time creates a more crispy exterior and a flaky, evenly cooked interior. When the pan is overcrowded, the temperature of the oil drops, causing the fish to absorb more oil and become greasy and overcooked. 

Coat with flour before cooking

When frying, dry the fish first before coating it with a light layer of flour before cooking to make a crispy and flavorful crust while keeping moisture inside.

Choose healthy oils with high smoke points

High cooking temperatures (between 350 and 375 degrees) make crispy, flaky fish. So, choosing healthy oils that won’t release harmful compounds is important. Avocado oil, coconut oil, and ghee are great options since they have high smoke points and are rich in healthy fats. They also have a mild flavor that won’t mask the delicate taste of your favorite fish.

How we selected the best pans for cooking fish

When selecting the best pans for cooking fish, we utilized a variety of methods to ensure that we provided you with the most comprehensive and reliable information.

Firstly, we read countless reviews from verified buyers and professional chefs who have hands-on experience using these pans. We paid attention to common complaints or praises in regards to each pan’s performance, durability, and overall value.

We also took into consideration the materials used in the production of each pan, ensuring that they are of high quality and non-toxic. This is especially important for non-stick pans, as the low-quality non-stick coating can be harmful to your health and the environment.

Durability was another important factor we considered. We looked for pans that are designed to last, with features like thick, sturdy construction and scratch-resistant surfaces.

We also sought out expert opinions from professional chefs and cooking bloggers to get their take on the best pans for cooking fish. Their insights and recommendations provided valuable insight into the best brands and models available.

While we were not able to personally test every pan, we made sure to research and gather information from multiple sources to provide you with the most comprehensive list of the best pans for cooking fish.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Does enamel-coated cast iron offer the same amount of crispiness as traditional cast iron?

Enamel-coated cast iron may not offer the same level of crispiness as traditional cast iron because the enamel coating creates a non-stick surface that can prevent the food from sticking to the pan and forming a crispy crust. However, it is still possible to achieve a nice sear and some crispness with an enamel-coated cast iron skillet, especially if you preheat the pan and use high heat. Plus, the enamel coating provides other benefits such as being non-reactive with acidic ingredients and being easier to clean than traditional cast iron.

What type of pan is best for cooking fish?

When it comes to cooking fish, a pan made from cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum is a great option. The best pan for you will mostly depend on your cooking style and preferences. Cast iron is great for searing and slow-cooking methods like braising and roasting, while stainless steel and aluminum are better suited for higher heat methods like stir-frying and sautéing. Non-stick pans are also popular for their easy-to-clean surfaces, but be sure to choose a non-toxic option to keep your cooking healthy.

Should I use a non-stick pan for cooking fish?

Using a non-stick pan for cooking fish is a popular choice but it’s crucial to choose a non-toxic PFA-free non-stick coating like ceramic to avoid any potential health risks. Many “PFOA-free” non-stick pans still contain many other chemicals known to cause harm. Options like cast iron or stainless steel are also great for cooking fish but require proper preheating and care to avoid sticking.

Can I use a cast iron pan for cooking fish?

Absolutely! Cast iron pans are a great choice for cooking fish, as they provide even heat distribution and can create a delicious sear on your fish. Just make sure to properly season your pan and use a little bit of oil to prevent sticking.

Is it better to use a pan with a lid or without a lid for cooking fish?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the truth is that both options can be effective depending on the type of fish and cooking method you choose. Using a pan with a lid can be great for trapping in moisture and flavor, while a pan without a lid can be ideal for achieving crispy, golden-brown skin. So, whether you’re a fan of juicy, flaky fish or love a good crunch, the choice is yours!

What size pan should I use for cooking fish?

As a general rule, you’ll want a pan that is slightly larger than your fish – about 1-2 inches larger on all sides should do the trick. Bigger is better than smaller.

How do I prevent the fish from sticking to my stainless steel pan?

First, make sure your pan is preheated fully before adding a thin layer of oil or butter. Then, add the fish. This will help create a non-stick surface on the pan.

Also, avoid overcrowding the pan. If you add too much fish at once, it will release more moisture, which can cause it to stick. So, make sure there is enough space between each piece of fish.

Finally, try not to move the fish too much while it’s cooking. Let it cook for a few minutes on one side before flipping it over. Once it’s ready to flip it usually releases much easier. Also, if you try to move the fish too much it can cause it to break apart.