While both endorsed by celebrity chefs, Emeril Forever Pans and HexClad cookware differ primarily in their core technology, durability, and price. The Emeril Forever Pans use a traditional non-stick coating on an aluminum base for affordability and ease of use, whereas HexClad features a patented hybrid of stainless steel and non-stick, offering superior searing capabilities and long-term scratch resistance at a premium price.
Here’s a detailed look at both cookware lines to help you decide which is the right investment for your kitchen.
Emeril Forever Pans
The Emeril Forever Pans collection is designed to bring professional-grade cookware to the home cook, balancing performance with everyday convenience. This line focuses on providing a reliable, long-lasting non-stick surface that simplifies both cooking and cleanup, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of daily meals.
- What it is: A line of non-stick cookware from celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, designed for reliable, everyday home use.
- Key features: Durable, triple-layer non-stick surface, dishwasher-safe, oven-safe up to 500°F, compatible with all stovetops including induction.
- Price: ~$50 for an individual skillet and up to $150 for multi-piece sets.
- Dimensions: Available in standard sizes like 8-inch and 10-inch skillets, plus various saucepans and stockpots.
- Materials/Construction: Hard-anodized aluminum base for quick and even heating with a PTFE and PFOA-free non-stick coating.
- Style: Sleek and modern design featuring a classic black non-stick surface with stainless steel handles and accents.
- Pros: Very affordable, excellent non-stick performance for delicate foods like eggs and fish, easy to clean, widely available at major retailers.
- Cons: Traditional non-stick surface is less durable than hybrid options and may degrade over time, not resistant to metal utensils, less effective for high-heat searing.
This cookware is a great fit for home cooks who prioritize convenience and affordability for daily cooking tasks and need a dependable, easy-to-use non-stick pan.
Shop this product: emeril.com/collections/pans
HexClad Cookware
HexClad has made a name for itself with its innovative hybrid cookware that merges the best qualities of stainless steel and non-stick. The patented hexagon-etched surface provides the durability and searing power of steel with the easy release of a non-stick pan, designed for both passionate home cooks and professional kitchen environments.
- What it is: Premium hybrid cookware featuring a patented laser-etched design that combines stainless steel peaks and non-stick valleys.
- Key features: Scratch-resistant surface that is safe for metal utensils, combines searing and non-stick capabilities, tri-ply construction for even heating, oven-safe to 500°F, dishwasher safe.
- Price: Starts around $100 for an individual pan, with sets costing over $300.
- Dimensions: Comprehensive selection from 8-inch pans to large stockpots and griddles.
- Materials/Construction: Tri-ply construction with an aluminum core sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel, topped with the hybrid non-stick surface.
- Style: A distinct high-tech, professional look with a brushed stainless steel finish and the signature textured hexagon cooking surface.
- Pros: Extremely durable and scratch-resistant, allows for high-heat searing, versatile enough for any cooking task, built to last a lifetime, easy to maintain.
- Cons: Significantly higher price point, heavier than typical non-stick pans, may require a short learning period to master heat control.
HexClad is built for the serious cook who wants a do-it-all pan that can handle intense heat and diverse cooking techniques without sacrificing easy cleanup.
Shop this product: hexclad.com
Emeril Forever Pans vs. HexClad Comparison
Materials & Construction
The fundamental difference lies in their build. Emeril Forever Pans use a conventional, high-quality construction for non-stick cookware: a hard-anodized aluminum base for efficient heating topped with a triple-layer non-stick coating. This is a proven design for general-purpose cooking but remains susceptible to scratches and wear over time, especially with improper use.
Conversely, HexClad employs a more complex and robust tri-ply construction. The aluminum core ensures heat is distributed evenly, while the stainless steel layers provide durability. The key innovation is the laser-etched hexagon pattern, which protects the non-stick coating in the "valleys" while the stainless steel "peaks" provide a durable surface that can sear foods and withstand metal utensils. This makes HexClad far more durable in the long run.
Performance & Versatility
Emeril Forever Pans perform exactly as a great non-stick pan should. They are perfect for cooking eggs, pancakes, delicate fish, or any food prone to sticking. Cleanup is incredibly simple. However, they are not designed for achieving a deep, hard sear on a steak, as high heat can damage traditional non-stick coatings over time.
This is where HexClad shines. It offers true versatility. You can slide an omelet out of the pan with ease and then, after a quick wipe, use the same pan to sear a steak at high heat to develop a rich crust. Its metal-utensil-safe surface also means you don't have to worry about using a fish spatula or metal whisk inside the pan, a major advantage over the Emeril line.
Style & Aesthetic
Both cookware lines offer a modern aesthetic for the kitchen. Emeril's pans have a classic, sleek appearance with their dark non-stick interior and polished stainless steel handles. They look professional and clean, fitting into nearly any kitchen design.
HexClad’s design is more distinctive and tech-forward. The unique hexagon pattern on the cooking surface and the brushed steel exterior give it a high-performance, almost industrial look that signals its premium construction. It stands out visually as a technical piece of equipment.
Price & Value
Emeril Forever Pans are positioned for affordability. At around $50 for a skillet, they deliver excellent performance for their price, making them a superb value for anyone from college students to families on a budget. The value is immediate and practical.
HexClad is a long-term investment. With prices starting at double that of Emeril, the value proposition is based on longevity and versatility. One HexClad pan is designed to replace both a stainless steel and a non-stick pan, and its durability means you won't need to replace it for many years, potentially saving money over the long term.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both of these pans are effective kitchen tools, but they are built for entirely different users and priorities.
Choose Emeril Forever Pans if:
- You are on a strict budget and want the best performing non-stick pan for the money.
- You primarily cook delicate foods like eggs, fish, and pancakes.
- You value extremely easy cleanup for everyday meals.
- You are replacing old pans and need a reliable, straightforward cookware solution now.
Choose HexClad if:
- You are a passionate cook who wants one pan that can handle any task, from searing meat to cooking omelets.
- Long-term durability and scratch resistance are your top priorities.
- You want to invest in premium cookware that will last a lifetime.
- You frequently use metal utensils and want cookware that can withstand them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Emeril Forever Pans and HexClad?
The primary difference is the surface technology. Emeril pans use a traditional (though high-quality) non-stick coating. HexClad uses a hybrid technology that combines stainless steel and non-stick material, allowing it to sear like steel while providing easy food release.
Can you use metal utensils on HexClad and Emeril pans?
You can safely use metal utensils on HexClad pans, as the stainless steel hexagon grid protects the non-stick coating below. It is strongly advised not to use metal utensils on Emeril Forever Pans, as they can scratch and damage the traditional non-stick surface.
Which pan is better for searing steak?
HexClad is far superior for searing steak. Its stainless steel elements allow it to safely withstand and retain the high heat needed to create a deep, flavorful crust on meat.
Are both types of pans oven-safe?
Yes, both pan collections are rated as oven-safe up to 500°F, making them versatile for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven.
How do you clean HexClad cookware?
HexClad pans are dishwasher safe. For hand washing, you can use regular dish soap and a sponge. Because of its durable hybrid surface, you can also use steel wool or other abrasive scrubbers to remove stubborn food residue without damaging the pan.
Do HexClad pans need to be seasoned?
HexClad recommends a quick seasoning process before first use to enhance the non-stick performance: heat the pan on medium-low, spread 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil around the interior, and let it heat for 2-3 minutes. After this initial seasoning, it does not typically need to be repeated.
Is HexClad really non-stick?
Yes, when used correctly with a small amount of fat or oil and proper heat management, HexClad performs as a non-stick pan. The key is to pre-heat the pan and use a bit of cooking fat, which is a common practice for most types of cookware, including stainless steel.
Which brand offers better value for the money?
This depends on your definition of value. Emeril Forever Pans offer excellent short-term value with great non-stick performance at a low price. HexClad offers superior long-term value, as its durability and versatility mean it will last much longer and can do the job of multiple pans.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
