Do you want to learn how to cook perfectly fluffy and creamy scrambled eggs in a stainless steel pan? You are in the right place. If you want to improve your health, you may want to give up toxic non-stick pans.
Stainless steel pans are durable and non-toxic, but you probably think eggs will stick to stainless steel. Well, there is an easy way to use stainless steel pans for cooking eggs, and you will never want to use another method again.
Yes, you can make scrambled eggs in a stainless steel pan
For the longest time, I avoided making scrambled eggs because I thought I didn’t have the right pan. But then, I stumbled upon a video on Instagram that showcased someone cooking eggs in a stainless steel pan, and it happened to be the same brand I had, All-Clad. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try, and it worked! I was overjoyed.
Since then, scrambled eggs have become a regular feature on my breakfast menu, and I no longer needed to buy any extra pans. When I shared this valuable information on my social media accounts, people were surprised. Some even claimed it changed their lives. That’s when I knew I had to create a detailed guide and a video tutorial on how to make scrambled eggs in a stainless steel pan.
Alternatives to stainless steel
While ceramic-coated pans are an option for making scrambled eggs, they are expensive and easily get scratched, becoming toxic. Traditional non-stick cookware is not a healthy choice either, as it leaches harmful chemicals into the food. While cast iron pans are excellent for certain dishes, I prefer using them sparingly.
In my opinion, good quality stainless steel pans are the best everyday cookware. They are safe, easy to clean, and, as I discovered, non-stick when used correctly.
Pick the right type of stainless steel pan
Invest in premium, fully-clad cookware rather than opting for cheaper alternatives. While they may cost a bit more, they are built to last a lifetime. Fully-clad cookware consists of multiple layers of different materials, providing even heat distribution across the entire surface. This type of design ensures precise temperature control and prevents hot spots, resulting in even cooking.
All-Clad is a reputable cookware company that offers fully-clad pans, and I personally own a variety of their products. Specifically for making scrambled eggs, I use the All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Frying Pan 8 and 10 Inch Cookware Set. You can find them on sale at stores like William Sonoma, Amazon, or the All-Clad website.
Another brand to consider is Made-In Cookware, which offers comparable quality at a more affordable price. Their 3-Piece Stainless Frying Pan Set is a popular choice among cooking enthusiasts.
Choose the right-sized pan
When making 2 or 3 eggs, I prefer using the 8-inch frying pan. For 4 eggs or more, I opt for the 10-inch frying pan. If you have a larger 12-inch pan, you can cook up to 10 eggs at once. Choose the pan size that suits your needs.
Use the right type of fat
For healthy and delicious eggs, use extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, or perilla oil. These oils are suitable for cooking and can withstand higher temperatures. Don’t worry if you see a little smoke while heating these oils; their smoking point is higher than their oxidation point, making them safe to cook with.
For extra flavor, fluffier eggs, and enhanced non-stick capabilities, consider mixing the oil with some butter or ghee. French or Italian butter, as well as butter made with A2 milk or Jersey milk, are excellent choices. For a 10-inch pan with 4 eggs, I typically use 1/2 tablespoon of oil and 1/2 tablespoon of butter.
Beat the eggs
To achieve the best nutrition, taste, and texture, I recommend using pasture-raised or Omega-3 eggs. Beat the eggs with a fork before heating the pan. Keep the eggs plain; you can season them with salt and pepper after cooking.
The big secret for a non-stick pan: heat the pan well
The key to making your stainless steel pan non-stick lies in heating the pan properly. Before adding any fat, heat the pan on medium to high heat. On my stove, I usually set the heat to 6 or 7. To check if the pan is hot enough, sprinkle some cold water with your wet fingers. If the droplets slide around and disappear quickly, the pan is ready. Remember, these variables may slightly differ depending on your specific pan and stove type. Practice and experimentation will help you find the perfect heat level for your setup.
Add the oil and butter
Once the pan is sufficiently heated, add the oil and butter. I typically reduce the heat by one level (from 7 to 6) to prevent the butter from burning. Stainless steel pans conduct and retain heat well, ensuring even distribution throughout the surface.
Add the eggs
After adding the oil and butter, turn the heat back up by one level (back to 7) as the eggs will lower the pan’s temperature. Add all the beaten eggs at once, then use a spatula to gently scrape them from the sides towards the center of the pan. The scrambled eggs will be ready quickly, and you can take them off the heat when they reach your desired consistency. Remember that even after turning off the heat, the eggs will continue to cook, so transfer them immediately to a serving plate and season with salt and pepper.
Be patient
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t achieve the desired results on your first attempt. This method guarantees a non-stick stainless steel pan, but it requires practice. Keep at it, and soon you’ll master the technique.
How to serve scrambled eggs
When prepared this way, scrambled eggs are incredibly satisfying and flavorful. The addition of butter gives them an extra burst of richness and fluffiness. I usually season the eggs with salt and pepper and occasionally add herbs like chives, cilantro, or parsley. For an extra touch, I sprinkle some grated Parmigiano or Pecorino Romano while the eggs are still in the pan. I love serving them with a slice of lectin-free and gluten-free sourdough bread, alongside a refreshing green or bistro salad.
Can I make fried eggs in a stainless steel pan?
Absolutely! You can also make fried eggs, sunny side up, in a stainless steel pan. The same rules for cooking scrambled eggs apply here. However, when making fried eggs, I skip the butter as they take longer to cook, and the butter may start to burn. After adding the eggs, reduce the heat to medium (setting 5) and cover the pan.
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Now you have all the knowledge you need to make delicious scrambled eggs in a stainless steel pan. Embrace the durability and non-toxic properties of stainless steel cookware. Bon appétit!
