Proctor Silex 38526 Electric Skillet with Lid

Overview

Plugging the removable cord into the base turns this aluminum pan into a countertop frying surface with its own heat source. A manual dial sets the temperature, cool-touch handles carry it to the table, and the clear glass lid lets you check food without lifting it.

Frying, sauteing, simmering and braising all happen in one pan that does not need a stovetop, which frees a burner on a busy night. Heat is governed by a single manual dial with a handful of marked settings, so fine temperature control between the marks is not possible.

Who it's for

Dorm rooms, holiday overflow cooking and table-side meals are where a self-heating pan earns its place, and the removable cord makes washing easier. Someone who needs precise, repeatable temperatures for candy or deep frying should look at a unit with a digital control.

Pros and cons

Performance notes

Heat comes from an element under the aluminum pan, so the wattage and the dial setting decide how fast the surface recovers after cold food goes in. The glass lid traps steam for simmering and braising, while leaving it off lets moisture escape for browning. Because the dial is manual, the thermostat cycles around the chosen mark instead of holding an exact number.

Specifications