Ever feel like you’re choosing between a non-stick pan that scratches easily and a stainless steel one that turns eggs into a sticky nightmare? That’s the exact frustration that led me to test hexclad cookware. This hybrid design promises the best of both worlds, and honestly, I was pretty skeptical at first. Could it really deliver a non-stick surface you can use metal utensils on?
After several months of putting these pans through their paces—from searing steaks to making delicate crepes—I’ve got some strong opinions. Let’s dive into whether this premium cookware lives up to the hype or if it’s just another overpriced kitchen trend. You might be surprised by what sticks and what doesn’t.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Hexclad Cookware
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece Fry Pan Set, 8, 10,…
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9.5 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Inch Frying Pan with Tempered Glass…
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9.3 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 7-Quart Sauté Pan with Tempered Glass…
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9.1 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 8-Inch Frying Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly,…
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8.8 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Inch Frying Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly,…
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8.6 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Tempered Glass Lid,…
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8.4 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 12-Inch Griddle Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly,…
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8.2 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Quart Stockpot with Tempered Glass Lid,…
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7.9 |
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HexClad Hybrid Nonstick BBQ Grill Pan, Dishwasher-Friendly, BBQ and…
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7.7 |
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Quick Review For Top 9 Hexclad Cookware
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece Fry Pan Set, 8, 10, and 12-Inch Frying Pans with Tempered Glass Lids, Stay-Cool Handles, Dishwasher-Friendly, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 6-Piece Fry Pan Set is designed to tackle the common frustrations of home cooking by merging the best qualities of different cookware materials. At its heart is the unique Hybrid technology, which features a laser-etched hexagonal pattern. This design cleverly combines raised, durable stainless steel rings for superior food searing and browning with a smooth, PFOA-free ceramic nonstick coating in the valleys for effortless food release and cleanup.
It’s a system that aims to give you a great sear on a steak while still letting your eggs slide right out.
This set is built for versatility, providing three essential pan sizes: an 8-inch, a 10-inch, and a 12-inch frying pan. Whether your making a single grilled cheese, sautéing vegetables for a side, or preparing a full family-sized portion of pancakes, having the right size pan makes the process smoother.
Each pan comes with its own fitted tempered glass lid, which is perfect for trapping heat and moisture when you need to simmer a sauce or melt cheese. The stay-cool handles are designed for a secure grip and remain comfortable to hold, even when the pan is hot on the stovetop.
Performance and durability are key. The tri-ply construction, with an aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel, ensures quick, even heating and eliminates hot spots that can burn your food.
A major advantage is its universal compatibility; you can use these pans on any cooktop you have, including gas, electric, ceramic, and induction. They’re also incredibly resilient: they’re safe for use with metal utensils (unlike traditional nonstick), are dishwasher-friendly for easy cleanup, and are oven-safe up to a remarkable 900°F for finishing dishes or baking.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Inch Frying Pan with Tempered Glass Lid, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Inch Frying Pan is designed to be a versatile workhorse for your kitchen. Its core innovation is the unique hybrid cooking surface, which combines a laser-etched pattern of stainless steel peaks with a ceramic-nonstick coating in the valleys. This design aims to give you the best of both worlds: the superior, uncoated sear and fond-building capability of stainless steel for flavorful browning, alongside the easy food release and cleanup associated with nonstick.
You can confidently use metal utensils without worrying about scratching the cooking surface, which is a significant advantage over traditional nonstick pans.
At 10 inches in diameter, this pan is a practical and frequently used size. It’s ideal for tasks like frying eggs, sautéing vegetables for a side dish, or browning chicken breasts for a simple weeknight meal.
The included tempered glass lid allows you to cover dishes to retain heat and moisture when needed, making it suitable for one-pot recipes as well. The handle is ergonomically shaped and designed to stay cool on the stovetop, providing a secure and comfortable grip.
Underneath it’s innovative surface, the pan features a tri-ply construction with a thick aluminum core sandwiched between layers of stainless steel.
This ensures even, consistent heating across the entire cooking surface, reducing hot spots that can lead to uneven cooking. A key feature is it’s exceptional compatibility; the pan is induction-ready and works on all cooktop types, including gas, electric, and ceramic glass.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 7-Quart Sauté Pan with Tempered Glass Lid, Chicken Fryer, Stay-Cool Handles, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 7-Quart Sauté Pan with Tempered Glass Lid is a versatile, high-performance piece designed to handle a wide range of cooking tasks with remarkable durability. At it’s core is HexClad’s patented hybrid technology. The surface is laser-etched with a hexagonal pattern that raises stainless steel peaks above a ceramic nonstick valley.
This unique design gives you the best of both worlds: the superior, fond-building sear of stainless steel for perfect browning on meats and vegetables, alongside the easy food release and cleanup associated with high-quality nonstick. It genuinely bridges the gap between professional searing and everyday convenience. With a generous 7-quart capacity and deep sides, this pan functions as a true multi-tasker.
It’s officially labeled a sauté pan, but its dimensions make it equally effective as a chicken fryer, a braiser for large cuts of meat, a pan for deep soups or stews, or a roaster for a whole chicken. The large, flat cooking surface provides ample room for searing multiple portions at once without overcrowding, which is key for getting that ideal crust instead of steaming your food.
Whether your cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping in bulk, this pan’s volume and shape are substantial assets. Construction and durability are where HexClad really stands apart. The tri-ply build, with an aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel, ensures rapid, even heating that responds quickly to temperature adjustments. It’s compatible with every type of cooktop, including induction.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 8-Inch Frying Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 8-Inch Frying Pan is designed to be a versatile and durable workhorse for your kitchen, addressing common frustrations with traditional nonstick cookware. Its core innovation lies in the unique Hybrid technology. The cooking surface is laser-etched with a hexagonal pattern where the peaks are made of durable stainless steel, and the valleys are filled with a TerraBond ceramic nonstick coating.
This combination aims to give you the best of both worlds: the superior food release and easy cleaning of nonstick, with the ability to achieve a better sear on meats and vegetables thanks to the exposed steel. It’s a thoughtful approach that tries to bridge the gap between specialty pans.
Constructed with a tri-ply build featuring an aluminum core, this pan heats evenly and responsively, reducing hot spots that can lead to uneven cooking.
This design also makes it incredibly versatile for your cooking setup. It’s compatible with all cooktop types, including induction, which is a significant plus for many modern kitchens. The pan is also built to withstand rigorous use. It’s advertised as safe for metal utensils, which is a notable departure from the fragility of typical nonstick coatings. For cleanup, you have the option of placing it in the dishwasher, though handwashing is often recommended for longevity.
Its oven-safe rating up to 900°F is exceptionally high, providing flexibility for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven.
In terms of size and utility, the 8-inch diameter makes it an ideal tool for specific tasks. It’s perfect for cooking a single omelet, frying a couple of eggs, toasting spices, or preparing a small side dish like sautéed mushrooms. Its compact size not only makes it great for smaller portions but also ensures it’s easy to store in crowded cabinets.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Inch Frying Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Inch Frying Pan is designed to be a versatile and durable workhorse for your kitchen. Its core innovation lies in the unique hybrid cooking surface. Instead of a traditional, fragile nonstick coating, HexClad uses a laser-etched pattern of hexagonal cladding.
This creates raised peaks of durable stainless steel, which provide excellent food searing and is safe for metal utensils, while the valleys are filled with a ceramic nonstick coating for easy food release and cleaning. This combination aims to give you the best of both worlds: superior performance without the fuss.
In terms of construction, this pan is built to last. It features a tri-ply design with an aluminum core sandwiched between layers of stainless steel.
This ensures quick, even heating across the entire cooking surface, reducing hot spots that can burn your food. The pan’s versatility is a major highlight. It’s compatible with every type of cooktop, including induction, and can transition directly from the stovetop into an oven rated for an impressive 900 degrees Fahrenheit.
For cleanup, you have the option of putting it right in the dishwasher, though handwashing is often just as simple due to its nonstick properties.
The 10-inch size is a practical choice for many everyday cooking tasks. It’s ideal for preparing a main course for two people, a substantial single serving, or side dishes like sauteed vegetables or potatoes.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Tempered Glass Lid, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Tempered Glass Lid is a specialized tool designed for precision tasks in your kitchen. Its compact, one-quart size makes it perfect for jobs where a larger pan is simply overkill. Think of it as your go-to for melting butter without browning it too quickly, creating a single serving of rich hollandaise, reheating last night’s soup without dirtying a big pot, or reducing a balsamic glaze to perfect thickness.
It’s the saucepan you reach for when you need control and efficiency for small-batch cooking. At the heart of this pan’s performance is HexClad’s unique Hybrid technology. The cooking surface is laser-etched with a hexagonal pattern that raises durable stainless steel, while the valleys are filled with a nonstick TerraBond ceramic coating.
This design aims to give you the best of both worlds: the effective food release and easy cleaning of nonstick, with some of the searing capability and durability of stainless steel. It’s built to be metal-utensil safe, so you can use a whisk for your gravy or a spoon for your compote without the constant worry of scratching a delicate surface. Construction and versatility are key features here.
The pan uses a tri-ply build with an aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel, which promotes quick, even heating and prevents hot spots that could burn your delicate sauces. This design also makes it compatible with every type of cooktop, including induction. For finishing flexibility, the pan is oven-safe up to an impressive 900°F, allowing you to start a sauce on the stove and finish it under the broiler if needed.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 12-Inch Griddle Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 12-Inch Griddle Pan is designed to be a central workhorse in your kitchen, merging professional-grade performance with the convenience of easy cleanup. Its core innovation lies in the unique cooking surface.
HexClad’s patented Hybrid technology laser-etches a hexagonal pattern of raised stainless steel, creating a cooking surface where the peaks provide a superior sear for meats and vegetables, while the valleys are filled with a durable, PFOA-free TerraBond ceramic nonstick coating. This combination means you get excellent food release and simpler cleaning without sacrificing the fond and browning that builds flavor. Versatility is a key strength of this griddle.
Its large, flat surface is perfect for tasks that typically require multiple pans. You can cook a full breakfast with pancakes, bacon, and eggs simultaneously, toast a half-dozen buns for a gathering, or sear several steaks at once. It transitions effortlessly from a stovetop sear to finishing in the oven, thanks to its impressive oven-safe rating of up to 900°F.
Whether your making quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches, or vegetable fritters, the even heat distribution from its tri-ply construction—an aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel—ensures consistent results without hot spots. Durability and convenience are built into its design. Unlike many nonstick pans, HexClad is engineered to be metal-utensil safe, so you can use your favorite spatulas and tongs without worrying about scratching the surface.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Quart Stockpot with Tempered Glass Lid, Stay-Cool Handles, Dishwasher-Friendly, Oven-Safe Up to 900°F, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 10-Quart Stockpot with Tempered Glass Lid is designed to be the most versatile and durable large-capacity pot in your kitchen. Its core innovation is the patented hybrid cooking surface. Instead of a traditional, fragile nonstick coating, HexClad uses a laser-etched pattern of hexagonal peaks. The peaks are made of durable, PFOA-free stainless steel that provides excellent searing and browning, while the valleys are filled with a ceramic nonstick coating.
This combination means you can confidently use metal utensils without fear of scratching the finish, and it delivers the easy food release and cleanup you expect from nonstick, but with far more durability. When it comes to capacity and performance, this 10-quart pot truly is a workhorse. It’s ideal for all your big-batch cooking projects. You can simmer a huge pot of soup or stew for a crowd, boil pasta for a family gathering, or steam shellfish like crab and lobster with ease.
It’s also a fantastic choice for more specialized tasks like home canning, making stocks and broths from scratch, or even deep-frying thanks to its generous size and stable base. The tri-ply construction, with an aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel, ensures even, consistent heating with no hot spots, so everything cooks uniformly. Durability and convenience are where this pot really stands apart.
It is induction ready and compatible with every type of cooktop, including gas, electric, and ceramic glass. The entire pot body is oven-safe to an impressive 900°F, allowing you to start a dish on the stovetop and finish it in the oven (note: the included tempered glass lid is oven-safe to 400°F). The stay-cool handles remain comfortable to grip, even when the pot is hot.
HexClad Hybrid Nonstick BBQ Grill Pan, Dishwasher-Friendly, BBQ and Oven-Safe Up to 900°F
The HexClad Hybrid Nonstick BBQ Grill Pan is designed to bridge the gap between outdoor grilling flavor and indoor kitchen convenience. This isn’t your average grill pan; it’s built with a specific hybrid technology that aims to solve common cooking frustrations, particulary sticking and clean-up, while delivering those sought-after char marks. At the heart of this pan is HexClad’s patented surface.
It’s laser-etched with a hexagonal pattern where the peaks are made of durable stainless steel and the valleys are filled with a TerraBond ceramic coating. This combination is meant to give you the best of both worlds: the stainless steel peaks allow for direct contact with your food, promoting a superior sear and those classic grill marks on meats, vegetables, or even fruits. Meanwhile, the ceramic-coated valleys provide a reliable nonstick barrier to help food release easily.
It’s this hybrid approach that aims to make searing a steak or grilling chicken less of a chore afterwards. The construction goes beyond the surface. The pan features a tri-ply build with an aluminum core sandwiched between layers of stainless steel. This is crucial for performance, as it ensures heat spreads quickly and evenly across the entire cooking surface, eliminating cold spots that can lead to uneven cooking.
You can use it on virtually any heat source in your kitchen, from gas and electric to ceramic and induction cooktops. Durability is a key theme here. The pan is rated safe for use with metal utensils, so you don’t have to switch to special tools. For cleanup, it’s dishwasher-friendly, though many find a quick wipe is often sufficient. Its high-heat tolerance is impressive, being oven-safe up to 900°F, making it suitable for finishing dishes in the oven or even for broiling.
Hexclad Cookware Buying Guide
You’ve probably seen those pans with the distinctive hexagonal pattern. That’s hexclad cookware, a hybrid design that combines a stainless steel core with a non-stick surface. The idea is to get the searing power of stainless and the easy release of non-stick, all in one pan. It sounds great, but here’s what to look for before you commit.
Construction and Layers
Not all hybrid pans are built the same. The best have a thick, multi-ply core—usually aluminum sandwiched between stainless steel. This ensures even heat distribution so you don’t get hot spots. Check how the non-stick coating is applied; it should be bonded to the metal, not just sprayed on. A good construction means it can go from stovetop to oven without a problem.
Handle Comfort and Safety
You’ll be lifting this pan alot. The handle should feel secure and stay cool on the stovetop. Look for a sturdy, riveted design. A comfortable grip is key, especially when the pan is full. Some handles are oven-safe to a higher temperature than others, so check that spec if you like to finish dishes in the oven.
Compatibility With Your Stove
These pans work on gas, electric, and induction cooktops, which is a huge plus. But if you use induction, double-check that the base is fully magnetic. Also, consider the flatness of the pan’s bottom. A perfectly flat base makes the best contact on electric and induction, leading to more efficient cooking.
Ease of Cleaning
A major selling point is easy cleanup. The non-stick hexagons are suppose to make food release simple, while the stainless valleys allow for fond development and deglazing. Most are dishwasher safe, but handwashing with mild soap is often recommended to preserve the surface long-term. Avoid metal scouring pads that can scratch it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hexclad Cookware
What makes Hexclad different from other pans?
Hexclad pans have a unique hybrid surface. It’s a laser-etched hexagonal pattern of stainless steel with non-stick coating in teh valleys. This aims to give you the searing of stainless with easier food release. They’re also marketed as being metal utensil safe.
Is Hexclad cookware really non-stick?
It’s best to think of it as semi non-stick. The coated valleys help with release, but it won’t perform like a traditional full-coat non-stick pan, especially for delicate items like eggs. You’ll still want to use a bit of oil or butter for best results.
Can I use metal utensils on Hexclad?
Yes, that’s a key feature. The raised stainless steel hexagons protect the non-stick coating from direct scraping. So, metal spatulas and tongs are generally fine. Just avoid harsh scrubbing or sharp knives directly on the surface.
How do I clean my Hexclad pan?
Let it cool first, then wash with warm soapy water. A soft sponge is best. For stuck-on bits, you can deglaze the pan with some water while it’s still warm. They are dishwasher safe, but handwashing is recommended to prolong the pans life.
Is Hexclad oven and broiler safe?
Most Hexclad cookware is oven safe up to 500°F. The lids are often oven safe to a lower temperature, around 400°F. Always check the specific product details for your set, as handles and knobs can have different limits.
What are the main downsides to Hexclad?
The cost is higher than many other options. Also, the cooking surface isn’t completely smooth, so it can be trickier to whisk sauces directly in the pan. Some users find the non-stick performance diminishes faster than expected.
Is a Hexclad set worth the investment?
It depends on your cooking style. If you want one pan that can sear, go in the oven, and handle metal tools, it’s a versatile option. But if you mainly want effortless non-stick, a traditional coated pan might be simpler and less expensive for you.
Final Take
So, is this type of cookware right for your kitchen? It really depends on what you need. If you want a single pan that can handle a lot of different jobs, it’s a strong option. The hybrid design means you can use metal utensils without too much worry, and it goes from stovetop to oven easily. For someone who cooks often but doesn’t want a full set of specialty pans, it can simplify things. Just go in knowing it’s not completely non-stick like a traditional coated pan, and it does require a bit of a learning curve for heat control.
At teh end of the day, choosing any cookware is about matching it to your habits. If the features line up with how you like to cook, a set of hexclad cookware could be a versatile workhorse for you. It aims to bridge the gap between different styles, which is its main appeal. Give it a fair try with the right preheating and care, and see if it fits into your routine. For many home cooks, that balance is exactly what they’re looking for.