Matfer Bourgeat
Black Steel Frying Pan
Best carbon steel pan for home cooks seeking professional-grade searing results.
Elevate your culinary creations with the Matfer Bourgeat 11-inch Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan. Expertly crafted in France, this pan boasts superior heat distribution and retention for consistently perfect results. Its durable, single-piece construction features a naturally nonstick finish that improves with seasoning, eliminating rivets for a sleek design. The ergonomically angled handle ensures comfortable stirring and flipping. Ideal for sautéing, searing, and frying, this versatile pan is compatible with all hob types, including induction, making it a professional-grade essential for any kitchen.
$81.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
715
/ 2846
#715 in Skillets & Frying Pans
Price vs Category Average
-24%
Below average
Brand
Matfer Bourgeat
/ Matfer Bourgeat
Who it's for
- Professional chefs needing high-heat performance and long-term durability
- Health-conscious cooks avoiding synthetic non-stick chemical coatings
- Versatile home cooks using diverse stovetops and oven methods
Who should skip it
- Busy home cooks preferring low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe cookware
- Users with limited wrist strength or those preferring lightweight pans
- Beginners intimidated by rust prevention and specialized care routines
Performance breakdown
Heat Responsiveness
Carbon steel offers rapid thermal conductivity for precise temperature control.
Surface Seasoning Potential
Develops a superior, slick patina that rivals traditional nonstick coatings.
Build Durability
Single-piece construction eliminates weak points for a lifetime of heavy use.
Ergonomic Handling
Angled handle design provides excellent leverage for flipping and tossing ingredients.
Maintenance Effort
Requires manual cleaning and regular oiling to prevent rust and degradation.
Versatility
Seamlessly transitions from high-heat searing to delicate sautéing on any hob.
Key Specs
Brand
Matfer Bourgeat
Material
Carbon Steel
Diameter
11 inches
Height
2 inches
Handle
Riveted steel strip handle
Compatibility
Gas, Electric Smooth Top, Halogen, Ceramic, Induction hobs
Coating
Uncoated
Weight
4 lbs 2 oz
Features
- Exceptional heat distribution for superior cooking.
- Durable black carbon steel construction.
- Naturally nonstick finish improves with seasoning.
- Single-piece construction with welded handle.
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable use.
- Suitable for all hob types, including induction.
- Top Recommended by America's Test Kitchen.
- PFOA and PTFE-free cooking surface.
What customers say
Users consistently praise the Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel Frying Pan for its exceptional cooking performance, focusing on superior heat retention and even distribution ideal for perfect searing. Once seasoned, the pan develops a remarkably effective natural nonstick surface. Reviewers highlight the robust construction, suggesting impressive longevity. However, a key theme is the demanding maintenance; the initial seasoning process and strict cleaning requirements often challenge new users. Those who commit to the necessary care report that the pan rewards their effort with unparalleled results, especially for high-heat cooking. It is cherished by enthusiasts who value traditional cookware and superior culinary output.
Know before you buy
This pan is not pre-seasoned and arrives with a protective coating that must be thoroughly scrubbed off before your first use. You will need to season the pan yourself to build up its natural nonstick properties.
No, this pan is not dishwasher safe. To prevent rust and maintain the integrity of the seasoning, you should hand wash it with hot water and dry it immediately after use.
Yes, the carbon steel construction is fully compatible with all hob types, including induction, gas, electric, and ceramic cooktops.
Unlike pans with chemical coatings, this carbon steel surface is completely PFOA and PTFE-free. It relies on a layer of polymerized oil—the seasoning—to create a natural nonstick surface that actually improves the more you use it.
The handle is ergonomically angled to provide a secure grip and balance, making it well-suited for tossing and flipping ingredients. Because it is a professional-grade steel handle, it will get hot during stovetop use, so you should always use a kitchen towel or oven mitt.
The handle is welded directly to the pan body rather than attached with rivets. This creates a smooth, seamless interior surface that is much easier to clean and prevents food from getting trapped around hardware.
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$81