Let’s be honest, who actually enjoys the mountain of dishes after a delicious home-cooked dinner? The scrubbing, the rinsing, the drying… it’s the tedious encore to a great meal. This is where the magic of one-pot cooking comes in, and you might be wondering about that versatile appliance on your countertop: the electric skillet. So, when people ask me, “hey, Can You Use It For One Pot Meals?” my answer is a resounding, enthusiastic YES. In fact, I’d argue it’s one of the best tools for the job, a true unsung hero of the modern kitchen. Stick with me, and I’ll show you why this humble gadget is about to become your weeknight dinner champion.
What Makes an Electric Skillet Perfect for One Pot Wonders?
An electric skillet is far more than just a glorified frying pan. Its design is practically tailor-made for single-vessel cooking. The combination of its core features creates a controlled, efficient cooking environment that a standard stovetop pan often struggles to replicate.
Here’s the breakdown of its superpowers:
- Precise Temperature Control: Unlike a stovetop burner with its vague “low-medium-high” settings, an electric skillet has a thermostat. You can set it to a specific temperature and trust it to stay there. This means you can get a perfect sear on your chicken, then drop the heat to a gentle simmer for the sauce without any guesswork. No more scorched garlic or undercooked rice.
- Deep, Straight Sides: Most electric skillets are deeper than a typical frying pan. This extra real estate is crucial for one-pot meals. It allows you to build layers of flavor—sautéing vegetables, browning meat, and then adding liquids like broth or tomatoes without worrying about messy overflows.
- A Large, Evenly Heated Surface: The heating element in an electric skillet runs across the entire base, eliminating the “hot spots” common in stovetop pans. This consistent heat is a game-changer for dishes where everything needs to cook uniformly, like a frittata or a skillet lasagna.
- The All-Important Lid: A snug-fitting lid is essential for trapping heat and moisture, which is the very soul of braising, stewing, and steaming. The lid turns your skillet into a mini-oven or a Dutch oven, perfect for tenderizing tough cuts of meat or gently cooking vegetables.
A Quick Sizzle Through History
The electric skillet isn’t a newfangled gadget. It burst onto the American culinary scene in the early 1950s, marketed as the “do-everything” appliance. It was a symbol of modern convenience, allowing the home cook to fry, roast, stew, and even bake without ever turning on the oven. While kitchen trends have come and gone, the electric skillet has endured for one simple reason: it just works. Its core design remains brilliantly effective for the exact kind of cooking we crave today—simple, efficient, and delicious.
Getting to Know Your Skillet: Key Features
Before you dive in, let’s get acquainted with the basic anatomy of your electric skillet. Understanding these parts will help you get the most out of it.
- The Base & Cooking Surface: This is the main body of the skillet. Most modern versions have a durable non-stick coating, which is a massive bonus for cleanup when making saucy one pot meals.
- The Temperature Probe/Control: This is the brains of the operation. It plugs into the side of the skillet and contains the thermostat. Crucially, this part should never be submerged in water!
- The Lid: Usually made of tempered glass so you can peek at your food without letting heat escape. Many have a small vent to release steam.
- The Handles: Look for sturdy, heat-resistant handles that make it easy to move the skillet from the counter to the table for serving.
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Our Picks for the Best Electric Skillet in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8\" Non-stick Electric Skillet, Dishwasher Safe with Tempered Glass Vented Lid, Rapid Heat Up, 600W, Black |
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| 2 | Presto 07117 12\" Electric Skillet with glass cover |
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| 3 | Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Foldaway Skillet, Black |
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| 4 | Crux Extra Deep Nonstick Scratch Resistant Electric Skillet with Removeable Temperature Probe, 12\" x 12\", silver (14620) |
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| 5 | Elite Gourmet 12\" x 12\" x 3” Ceralast™ Ceramic Non-stick PFAS Free, Dishwasher Safe Electric Skillet, Xtra Deep Dish, Rapid Heat 1200W, Black |
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| 6 | Elite Gourmet EG-6203# Extra Deep 16\"x13\"x3.2\" (10.5Qt.) Scratch Resistant, Easy Pour Spout Dishwasher Safe, Non-stick Electric Skillet with Glass Vented Lid, Adjustable Temperature, Black |
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| 7 | bella Make & Take Electric Skillet, Fits-anywhere™ kitchenware, EverGood™ Ceramic Coating, Adjustable Temperature & Dishwasher-Safe Tempered Glass Lid, Cast Aluminum Base, 1200 Watt, Surf |
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| 8 | Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet with Glass Cover |
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| 9 | Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control, Immersible Flat Top Grill, Burger, Eggs, Pancake Griddle, Nonstick Extra Large Cooking Surface, Slide Out Drip Tray, 10 x 20 Inch |
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| 10 | BLACK+DECKER Electric Skillet, Variable Temperature Control, Nonstick Cooking Surface, Dishwasher Safe, Tempered Glass Lid, 12\"x15\" |
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How Do You Master One Pot Meals in an Electric Skillet?
Ready to put it all to the test? Making amazing one pot meals in your electric skillet is all about a simple, repeatable process. Think of it as building flavors in layers.
- Set the Stage (Searing & Sautéing): Start by setting your skillet to a medium-high temperature (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C). Add a little oil and brown your proteins (chicken thighs, ground beef, sausage). This step, called the Maillard reaction, creates a deep, savory flavor base. Once browned, remove the meat and set it aside.
- Build the Flavor Base (The Aromatics): Lower the heat slightly and toss in your aromatics—onions, garlic, celery, carrots. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the magic really begins.
- Deglaze the Pan: This sounds fancy, but it’s dead simple. See those browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet? That’s pure flavor! Pour in a splash of liquid—wine, broth, or even water—and use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to scrape them up. They’ll dissolve into the liquid, creating an incredibly rich foundation for your sauce.
- Combine and Simmer: Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add back your protein, along with your other ingredients like canned tomatoes, beans, pasta, or rice, and enough liquid to cover. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer (around 225-250°F or 110-120°C).
- Cover and Cook: Pop the lid on and let the skillet do its work. The enclosed, moist environment will cook everything through perfectly. The cooking time will vary depending on your recipe, but this is the “walk away” part of the process.
- Finishing Touches: Once everything is cooked, you might stir in some fresh herbs, a splash of cream, or a handful of cheese to finish the dish.
Pro Tip: Because the electric skillet is so portable, you can serve directly from it at the table. Just unplug the probe, place it on a trivet, and let everyone dig in. It keeps the food warm and saves you yet another serving dish.
What Kinds of One Pot Meals Can You Make?
The possibilities are practically endless. If you’re wondering if you can you use it for one pot meals of every variety, the answer is pretty much yes. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Hearty Stews and Chilis: The deep sides and steady simmer are perfect for a classic beef stew or a spicy weeknight chili.
- Creamy Pasta Dishes: Cook your pasta right in the sauce! Try a skillet lasagna or a creamy chicken and broccoli pasta. The starches from the pasta help thicken the sauce beautifully.
- Flavorful Stir-Fries: The large surface area is ideal for a quick and healthy stir-fry. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Braised Meats: Think tender braised short ribs or chicken cacciatore. The low, slow, and moist heat of a lidded skillet is perfect for this.
- Breakfast Hashes and Frittatas: Sauté potatoes, sausage, and peppers, then pour whisked eggs over the top, cover, and cook on low for a perfect frittata.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to [check out our top skillet recipes] for step-by-step guides.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Skillet Superpowers
Don’t just stop at stews and pastas. Your electric skillet has a few more tricks up its sleeve.
- Shallow Frying: It’s perfect for getting a crispy, golden-brown crust on fried chicken or fish fillets, thanks to the precise temperature control that prevents the oil from burning.
- Baking: Yes, you can bake in it! Make a giant skillet cookie, cornbread, or even an upside-down cake. Just preheat it like an oven.
- Keeping Food Warm: It’s an excellent buffet server. Set it to the lowest “warm” setting to keep appetizers, dips, or pulled pork perfectly heated for a party.
Choosing the Right Skillet for Your Kitchen
Not all electric skillets are created equal. When you’re shopping, consider what you’ll use it for most.
| Feature | Square/Rectangular Skillet | Round Skillet |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Area | Maximizes cooking space. Great for lining up pieces of chicken or fish. | More traditional pan shape. Good for frittatas and dishes that need stirring. |
| Best For | Family-sized meals, shallow frying, cooking for a crowd. | Stir-fries, sauces, and dishes where you might toss ingredients. |
| Footprint | Can be bulkier to store. | Often more compact and easier to store. |
According to appliance expert Eleanor Vance, “The most critical feature to look for is a high-quality, PFOA-free non-stick surface. It not only makes cleanup a breeze but also allows you to cook with less oil, which is a significant benefit for health-conscious families.”
Keeping Your Skillet in Tip-Top Shape
A little care goes a long way. Follow this simple checklist to keep your skillet performing beautifully for years.
- [ ] Always unplug first: Before cleaning, make sure the skillet is completely cool and the temperature probe is removed.
- [ ] Never immerse the probe: Wipe the probe with a damp cloth if needed, but never put it in water.
- [ ] Hand wash the skillet: Even if it says “dishwasher safe,” hand washing is gentler on the non-stick coating. Use a soft sponge and mild dish soap.
- [ ] Avoid metal utensils: Stick to wood, silicone, or nylon utensils to prevent scratching the surface.
- [ ] Store it properly: Store the skillet with the lid on and the probe inside to keep all the parts together. If you need more tips, take a look at [our in-depth guide to cleaning non-stick surfaces].
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an electric skillet better than a slow cooker for one pot meals?
It’s different! A slow cooker is for very long, low-temperature cooking. An electric skillet is more versatile because it can also handle high-heat tasks like searing and sautéing, giving you more flavor development in your one-pot dish.
Can I use metal utensils on my electric skillet?
It’s highly recommended that you do not. Metal utensils can easily scratch and damage the non-stick coating, which will cause food to stick and can shorten the life of your appliance. Always opt for wood, silicone, or nylon tools.
How do I clean a burnt-on mess in my electric skillet?
First, let it cool. Then, fill it with enough water to cover the burnt area and add a squirt of dish soap. Set the temperature to a low simmer for 10-15 minutes. This will loosen the burnt-on food, making it easy to wipe away with a non-abrasive sponge.
Are electric skillets energy efficient?
Yes, they generally are. Because they are smaller and more contained than a conventional oven, they use less energy to heat up and maintain temperature, making them a great choice for saving on your electricity bill, especially in warmer months.
Can you deep fry in an electric skillet?
While you can shallow fry, most manufacturers advise against deep frying. The sides are not typically high enough to do so safely, and it can be a fire hazard. For deep frying, a dedicated deep fryer is a much safer option.
Your New One Pot Meal Powerhouse
So, to circle back to that all-important question: can you use it for one pot meals? The answer is a definitive yes. The electric skillet is a versatile, efficient, and user-friendly tool that simplifies the cooking process from start to finish. It empowers you to sear, sauté, simmer, and serve all from one vessel, drastically cutting down on cleanup time and letting you focus on what really matters: enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal. It’s time to dust off that skillet and unlock its full potential.