What is an Omelet Pan?

An omelet pan is somewhat hard to define, since they can come in a variety of widths and materials. Typically, omelet pans are about 6-10 inches (15.24-25.4 cm) and have a long handle that may be coated in plastic or heat resistant materials so you can grab it without having to use an oven mitt. The pan is typically shallow, usually not much more than an inch (2.54 cm) high, and the sides of the pan curve outward, making it fairly easy to slip an omelet out of the pan when it is finished.

Materials of the omelet pan can vary. Stainless steel and aluminum are pretty common. Copper may be a choice for some, and some people use cast iron. Many a pan deemed an omelet plan is coated with non-stick material. While this may help the person who is new to making omelets, a well-seasoned oiled pan works just as well for omelet experts. In fact, for most people who make omelets regularly, buying a pan specifically for omelets is unnecessary.

However, even the best omelet cook may want the convenience of an omelet pan because the size is just perfect for the types of omelets they want to make. Aside from making sure an omelet pan is oiled appropriately, the biggest mistakes when it comes to flipping omelets is either flipping them before they’re fully cooked or overloading the omelet with so many ingredients that it cracks or breaks. Adding too many eggs can be another mistake, because a thicker omelet is typically harder to flip.

To remedy this there are a few “self-flipping” omelet pans on the market. These are mostly offered through infomercials though you might find a few in kitchen supply stores. The omelet is placed on a pan that has two movable arms, which allow you, sometimes with the press of a button, to bring up the arms, thus flipping or even rolling the omelets. If you get well practiced at making omelets, this type of omelet pan isn’t really necessary.

Due to the range of materials used in different types of the omelet pan, you’ll find pricing very variable. You can find inexpensive ones for less than $10 US Dollars (USD). More expensive ones, especially those made by companies like Calphalon® can cost anywhere from $30-60 USD. Sometimes department stores will feature special deals that reduce prices on this size pan made by various name brands.

Don’t forget that most omelet pans will work well for many other types of food. You can sauté a few vegetables in one, make other types of eggs, and the lower lip and even heating feature of most of these pans usually work well for pancakes. Larger pans are also the perfect size for making a couple of hamburgers or falafel patties.