12 Best Paella Pans: Reviews & Tips To Help You Find The Perfect One

Paella is considered one of Spain’s greatest federal dishes, and it’s been passed down through Valencian families for several centuries. Many paella pans are manufactured from carbon steel or stainless steel, some use an enamel coating that makes them stick better to the bottom (and pot). However, you choose your pan-gas stovetop will work with any type. For electrical stoves only require flat-bottomed cooking surfaces so make sure before making this great dish again next time around
A lot goes into preparing authentic Spanish cuisine like Paellas: rice grains must be perfectly washed prior to boiling over high heat which helps develop its characteristic fragrance while retaining nutrients.

Cooking paella can be a lot of fun, but you need the right pan to make it in. Paella pans are different than other types of pans because they have two handles and rounded sides. The best paella pans are made from carbon steel or cast iron. They heat up quickly and maintain their heat for cooking your rice evenly while providing that tasty crust on the bottom called socarrat. If you’re looking for the perfect pan to cook amazing paella, check out these 12 best paella pans.

What’s a Paella Pan?

Paella pans are different than other types of pans because they have two handles and rounded sides. For this reason, paella pans are often referred to as “two-handled frying pans”. They are also called by their specific name of paelleras.

The best paella pans are made from carbon steel or cast iron. They heat up quickly and maintain their heat for cooking your rice evenly while providing that tasty crust on the bottom called socarrat. Generally speaking, authentic Spanish paella is cooked in a shallow pan on an open fire, so aluminum-coated ones aren’t the best choice because the heat won’t be conducted properly to cook your food well. If you have stainless steel pots with flat bottoms, they will work fine on gas or electric stoves.

A lot goes into preparing authentic Spanish cuisine like Paellas: rice grains must be perfectly washed prior to boiling over high heat which helps develop its characteristic fragrance while retaining nutrients. Also, the choice of ingredients used in cooking paella is key, so choose your seafood carefully. As for paella pans, there are many types available online and in stores that range in price from relatively inexpensive to very expensive. You can cook a basic paella with any type of pan you have at home, but generally speaking, choosing an authentic material will ensure proper heat conduction for even cooking results.

List of 12 Best Paella Pans Reviews

1. Garcima 18-Inch Carbon Steel Paella Pan, 46 cm

• This pan is made from heavy-duty steel to withstand any grilling batter or technique. It comes with a pamphlet with two recipes perfect for the grill, stovetop, and oven, with its durable carbon steel construction you can switch up your cooking techniques all night long seamlessly.
• This 18-inch pan will serve 5-8 guests making it even better when hosting a larger event. If rust does ever happen to show up due to not following drying instructions after washing. This big boy has an easy fix: a few passes of steel wool will quickly shine this baby back to life in no time.

2. Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel Paella Pan, 15 3/4″

• The Paella Pan is a must-have for any professional chef, giving them the ability to make many tasty dishes in one go. With its great heat distribution and temperature control capabilities it can be used as an efficient way of preserving vitamins while cooking your food at high quality.
• The Paella Pan is made of black carbon steel, which promotes healthy cooking and makes the pan free of any harsh chemicals or coatings. It also has an extremely high-quality nonstick surface that becomes even better with time as you cook your food in it.
• The unique, curved sides make it easy to cook food without worrying about burning the bottom or flipping over. The wide and shallow surface is great for sauteing vegetables ahead of time before rice goes in, no need to worry about sticking with these pans.
• The durability of this steel pan makes it a versatile cooking implement. You can use it on all your stovetops, from induction to gas and electric as well.

3. Machika Enameled Steel Skillet, Non-Stick Paella Pan

• The Paella Pan is a must for any Spanish cook. The thin and lightweight material makes this pan durable, while its hammered dimple technology ensures that the bottoms are rigid enough to withstand high temperatures during cooking processes such as making paellas.
• After use, simply wash the pan with water and mild soap. Immediately dry it off to keep its beautiful enameled look. Store in a plastic bag if need be or put away somewhere safe for storage because this will prevent scratches on the outside of your piece as well.
• This elegant 12-inch (30 cm) paella pan is sure to be the center of attention at your next gathering. Your friends and family will love you more for bringing this dish, which feeds 4 people with its delicious taste that can’t be matched by any other variety.
• Paella is a popular dish in Spain, and for good reason. Authentic Valencian paella pans imported from Spain are perfect to add that authentic flavor when making your own home-cooked meals or entertaining guests. Machika teamed up with Garcima since the 1920s – one of the country’s top manufacturers to bring you these high-quality tools so all can enjoy this delicious meal at any event they may be attending.

4. Victoria Cast Iron Paella Pan, 13 Inches, Black

• A notable feature of this 13 inches cast iron skillet is its ability to maintain even heating. This means that the food cooked in it will stay hot for 15 minutes or longer, depending on how you cook them. Another great thing about these pans is their double loop handles which make handling easier when cooking with two hands.
• With a delicious, nutty flavor that gets even better with time. Flaxseed oil is not just good for cooking but also provides an extra layer of protection in food preparation areas to eliminate any harmful PTFE and Foes found on your hands.
• The plated metal on your pans is seasoned with a special iron-based formula, which means it’s healthy for you. The natural release of trace amounts can help keep the minerals in food and boosts what we eat.
• This pan is perfect for any occasion or dish that requires versatility. From cooking rice, fish, and vegetables to making paella with your friends- this cast iron skillet can do it all. Its versatile size means you’ll always have the right tool when camping too, just bring along some food in order to make sure everyone has enough energy before bedtime gets here early tonight.

5. Vaello Campos La Valenciana 80cm Polished Steel Paella Pan

• Cook up a storm with this 80 cm polished steel Valencian paella pan. Whether it’s traditional or vegan, countless dishes are possibilities when you own Vaello Campos La Valenciana Polished Steel Paella Pan. 
• Made of polished steel and nicely weighted, your new prized possession will make cooking an assistant not the obstacle it usually is. 
• The ergonomic design of this gorgeous handcrafted beauty has four handles so carrying from stovetop to burner requires minimal effort on your part, a must-have for any serious chef.
• With a diameter of 80 cm, there isn’t a dish too small or challenging for this reliable pal to tackle while looking ravishing in shiny black tones that go well with any kitchen décor.

6. La Paella 18″ Pata Negra Restaurant Grade Paella Pan, Large, Silver

• The authentic, professional-grade paella pan takes you back to the narrow streets of Spain. A Spanish meal is incomplete without perfect rice, and this 18″ skillet will serve 6-8 people with delicious success. The thick carbon steel conducts heat efficiently for a quality meal. 
• Made in Spain, this La Paella18″ Pata Negra Restaurant Grade Paella Pan has shiny aluminum handles that stay cool while holding hot pans. The optional informative pamphlet features two recipes and tips for excellent rice, even if you’ve never attempted it before.

7. Garcima 16-Inch Stainless Steel Paella Pan, 40cm

• Paella is traditionally cooked over an open fire, where the flames cook the food evenly. However, today most people don’t have access to an open flame so they need a paella pan that’s designed for their stovetop or oven.
• Garcima has been manufacturing high-quality paella pans since 1963 and utilizes 100% steel construction to create items that are appealing as well as dependable. This 16″ stainless steel paella pan will produce authentic results because of its unrivaled design that heats evenly with every use. 
• Whether you’re making seafood pastels or rice salad terrine, these one-piece pans come with recipe pamphlets that contain two recipes plus tips on cooking perfect paellas without burning them.

8. Garcima Traditional Steel Paella Pan (32 inches/ 80 cm)

• The traditional polished steel, or Acero Pulido, the pan can be used on any type of grill. This pan is required for authentic paella and we recommended buying one if you want to make large quantities at a time. 
• We recommend cooking with real firewood as opposed to gas because it provides much better flavor and much more texture in the rice (just remember: patience). 
• You will need a special paella burner separately for this container. The pamphlet included includes guidelines for perfecting your paella experience as well as two recipes that are sure to delight your guests. 
• If you’re prone to getting bored easily, try 2-3 different flavors like seafood and chicken with peas and pancetta; Andouille sausage with bitter orange salsa Roja.

9. Roll over image to zoom in Garcima Tabarca Paella Pan Set with Burner

• Authentic Spanish cooking is a challenge without a burner and a pan to do it right. An authentic paella often needs the flavor of squid, shrimp, clams, garlic, and peppers too…all stirred together with rice in a shallow paella pan. 
• So what good is that if you don’t have an everyman size pan? Fortunately for those who take their regional cuisine as seriously as they should, there’s Garcima Tabarca Paella Pan Set with Burner from Spain. 
• Included are the burner-which can be mounted securely on any surface-and the pointed sloping sides of this rectangular dish make for quick cook time, not to mention great taste. Durable aluminum conducts heat evenly while its easy-grip handles give people with.

10. Garcima 16-Inch Carbon Steel Paella Pan, 40cm

• Often in the class of cookware that has performance but not much style, The Garcima 16-Inch Carbon Steel Paella Pan offers dual-purpose beauty and function. With an elegant look elongating its classic curves, this pan can dress up any meal or be sturdy enough to take on the robust flavors of Spanish dishes like paella. 
• This 16″ x 3/4″ piece is perfect for all your cooking needs with a versatile design. It sits well over one large stovetop burner or straddles two burners that are closely spaced without bringing too much heat into play. 
• It’s made from polished steel for extra strength and care. Plus, anything cooked in it will come out with a beautiful golden glow.

11. Garcima 16-Inch Pata Negra Restaurant Grade Paella Pan, 40cm

• This 16″ (40cm) pata Negra paella pan is great for beginning paella cooks. Informative pamphlet with each pan which contains two recipes and tips for perfect paella are included, as well as authentic Spanish heritage.
• Serve 4 to 6 people per pan depending on the recipe. This professional-grade carbon steel design conducts heat quickly and efficiently, allowing you to make restaurant-quality food at home.
• Serve your family REAL Spanish goodness this holiday season by making them the crispiest, creamiest rice dishes they’ve ever tasted. This 16″ PATA NEGRA Paella Pan will be your new best friend, it’s made in Spain, fits on all stovetops & ovens.

12. Machika Polished Steel Paella Pan 18 inch (46 cm)

• Paella is a Spanish dish typically consisting of rice, seafood, and vegetables cooked together with saffron to give it that signature color. The Paellas made in this pan conduct heat quickly and evenly throughout so you can create perfect paella every time. Its thin lightweight material makes these pans durable while their innovative hammered dimple technology ensures they’re rigid enough for any task at hand – making them perfect for cooking all your favorite meals from now on too.
• After use, simply clean the pan with water and detergent. Immediately dry it off to maintain its beautiful polished look. Lightly oil your metal utensil before storing it in a plastic bag for safekeeping; this will help prevent rusting as well.
• This 18 inch (46 cm) paella pan will not only serve 12 people but it’s also sure to be the center of attraction at your gatherings. Your friends and family are going to love your delicious Paellas.

Tips and guide to buying the best Paella Pan

To make sure you don’t end up with a fair-cooking pan, it’s important that we discuss key elements which should influence your choice. There are many variables to consider when choosing the perfect paella pan. However, there is one thing every user needs: an accurate understanding of what type or brand would work best for their needs and taste preferences.

Materials

Material is perhaps the most important aspect of the paella pan. This allows you to cook quickly and evenly without burning your dish’s bottom or sides – an effect that gives it a burnt taste and appearance. Some types like carbon steel and cast iron usually come pre-seasoned (and often enameled), thus minimizing the learning curve required to get those tasty, crispy dishes from your pans over time by simply reading instructions on how to care for them properly. Carbon steel is a natural nonstick material that will allow your food to release from the bottom of the pan, just like it should. This demonstrates that your paella isn’t sticking excessively and burning easily. Carbon steel pans are also known for their durability and quality construction. They can be used right on top of a gas burner or electric stovetop in any kitchen, so there’s no need to worry about compatibility issues.

Cast iron paella pans have been around for centuries in Spain, but have been used much less frequently over time because they require more careful handling due to their weight. However, these old-fashioned pans are slowly making a comeback as more people discover how good they are at distributing heat evenly across the entire surface area of the pan. This will prove beneficial for using it to cook paella over an open fire or even on a charcoal grill.

Size

Picking the size of your paella pan is important because it will determine how much food can be cooked in each batch. Whether you are preparing a one-time meal for family or friends, or if you enjoy cooking paella often, take note that many small or medium-sized pans have measurements in the bottom of the pan itself so you know their volume. However, when using your own pan at home to cook authentic recipes, it is recommended that you use a larger pan designed for more servings – 18 inches wide and 2 inches deep should do just fine since this type of size washes easily and won’t cause any problems on any stovetop.

Heat Source

It is important to consider how you will be using your paella pan before deciding which type of material should be used. If you plan on cooking over an open fire, the best choice would be a carbon steel or cast-iron pan since it can withstand high temperatures without warping. If you’re planning on cooking indoors only (or don’t mind purchasing another pan for outdoor use), then stainless steel should work well.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Since different materials have different maintenance requirements, you should choose your paella pan carefully. Carbon steel and cast iron pans are both pre-seasoned, so a little soap and warm water will be enough to clean them without losing the protective coating in the process. You can use hot water to remove stubborn residue or food particles from these types of pans – just avoid using abrasive pads or tools that could damage their surfaces. These can also be cleaned with a dry cloth if preferred.

Stainless steel, on the other hand, doesn’t require any seasoning but may require a little more work when it comes to cleaning. However, you can avoid scrubbing completely if using your pan only for paella dishes since they are naturally non-stick. Just make sure not to use metal implements when cooking with stainless steel pans or heat them over high heat to prevent damaging their surfaces.

Tips for using your Paella Pan

• Use a generous amount of olive oil when sautéing vegetables and meat for at least 10 minutes before adding rice, water or stock into the mix.
• Add ingredients gradually – this will not only allow you to control your dishes more accurately, it will also prevent them from sinking to the bottom as they cook evenly throughout.
• After placing the paella pan on top of a burner, allow it to heat up for at least 5 minutes until you see wisps or smoke escaping from its surface. You can then reduce heat and proceed with cooking.
• When adding ingredients such as chopped onions, garlic or meat, make sure to leave about 3-5 minutes in between each addition for the best results. This will ensure that they are cooked evenly before adding the rest of your ingredients.
• Stir paella dishes carefully until all ingredients are well blended; this will prevent any clumping and allow you to achieve the perfect crispiness on rice.
• Keep your pan covered when cooking paella – it will retain heat better and cook food faster at the same time. Just be careful not to lift its lid too frequently otherwise you might disturb its even distribution of heat during cooking.
• Serve paella immediately after cooking – this will ensure that it retains moisture and doesn’t become dry.
• To keep your pan seasoned, make sure to use olive oil or vegetable oil whenever you cook with it – avoid using other types of oils for cleaning purposes since they might affect the taste of your dishes.
• Store paella pans in a cool dry place when not in use. It never hurts to cover them with kitchen towels as well – just be careful not to scratch their surfaces while doing so.

FAQs about a Paella Pan

What is the best material for a paella pan?

The key to cooking great-tasting paella dishes is to use carbon steel or a cast iron pan. This will allow heat to distribute evenly and brown food without burning it. Stainless steel pans are also suitable, but can potentially warp during high-heat cooking sessions.

How do I clean a paella pan?

You can hand wash carbon steel and cast iron pans with warm water and soap. Avoid using sharp implements to prevent scratching their surfaces. Stainless steel pans, on the other hand, don’t require any seasoning so you can simply wipe them down with a dry cloth if preferred.

Are non-stick paella pans safe?

Paella dishes are naturally non-sticky due to the ingredients used for cooking – rice, seafood or vegetables. If looking for an easy way out of scrubbing messy pans after cooking, you could get yourself a stainless steel model instead since it is guaranteed not to scratch surfaces during use provided that you don’t scrape it with metal spoons or spatulas.

Can I use a paella pan on an induction stove?

Yes, you can use carbon steel or a cast iron pan to cook paella dishes on top of an induction stove. However, stainless steel pans will only work with gas stoves that distribute heat evenly enough for them not to warp during cooking sessions. You can also consider getting yourself a non-stick model if the idea of using oil to coat it prior to cooking doesn’t appeal too much to you.

Is it okay to wash my paella pan in the dishwasher?

No, don’t put your carbon steel or cast iron paella pan through the dishwasher despite its surface being nonsticky, this will cause it to rust. It’s best to hand wash it with warm water and soap followed by a thorough dry-up and storage for later use.

Conclusion for the Best Paella Pan

There are many paella pans available in the market today, but not all of them will provide you with great results when cooking your dishes. The key to buying the best one is to look for premium quality materials that have been designed for easy maintenance and even distribution of heat while cooking.

The paella pans we have shared above are a great way to ensure you can enjoy an authentic Spanish dish at home. Whether you want the perfect pan for making seafood, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, there is something for everyone here. If cooking with gas is more your style than electric stovetops, then our reviews of stainless steel and cast aluminum options should be helpful too. We hope that this article has helped give you some ideas on what to look for when shopping around and picking out the best product for your kitchen needs. Which one do you think will work best in yours? Let us know by giving it 5 stars below.