In the bustling heart of any modern kitchen, an appliance that truly earns its keep is a gem. For over 15 years in the electric kitchen appliance industry, I’ve seen countless tools come and go, but the electric skillet, especially those from Presto, consistently remains a star player. A Presto Electric Skillet isn’t just another gadget; it’s a culinary powerhouse, ready to revolutionize your daily cooking routine, whether you’re searing a steak, simmering a stew, or whipping up a family-sized breakfast. These versatile pans bring precision, convenience, and consistent results right to your countertop, proving why they are an indispensable addition to any home.
The Presto Advantage: Why an Electric Skillet is a Kitchen Essential
Ever found yourself juggling multiple pans on a crowded stovetop, wishing for just a little more space or more precise heat control? That’s where a Presto electric skillet shines. It’s a self-contained cooking station, freeing up your stove burners and providing consistent, evenly distributed heat. This precise temperature management is a game-changer, preventing hot spots and ensuring your food cooks perfectly every time. Beyond that, electric skillets are remarkably energy-efficient, often consuming less power than a traditional stove burner for many cooking tasks. Think of it as your portable kitchen workhorse, ready for anything from a quick weeknight meal to a holiday feast.
Exploring Popular Presto Electric Skillet Models
Presto offers a range of electric skillets, but two models frequently capture the spotlight for their reliability and thoughtful design: the Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet and the Presto 06857 16-Inch Electric Foldaway Skillet. Both are fantastic, but they cater to slightly different needs.
Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet: The Timeless Classic
The Presto 06852 is what many consider the quintessential electric skillet. It boasts a generous 16-inch cooking surface, perfect for preparing meals for families or entertaining guests. Its durable cast aluminum base provides excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring everything from pancakes to pot roasts cooks uniformly. Many users rave about its reliable ceramic non-stick surface, which is often PFAS-free, making for healthier cooking and incredibly easy cleanup. This model is a workhorse, designed for those who value classic performance and ample cooking capacity. However, some users note its cord can be a bit short, and the fixed legs, while sturdy, can make cleaning around them a minor chore.
Presto 06857 16-Inch Electric Foldaway Skillet: Innovation Meets Convenience
Now, if space-saving and ultimate convenience are high on your list, the Presto 06857 Foldaway model is a true innovator. While it matches the 06852 in its impressive 16-inch cooking area and robust performance, its standout feature is the clever foldaway design. The handles fold down, and the base detaches and nests neatly inside the pan, making storage a breeze—a huge plus for smaller kitchens, RVs, or anyone short on cabinet space. This design also makes the pan fully immersible and easier to clean, as the base can be removed. Plus, the 06857 often includes a handy pour spout that doubles as a spoon rest, a small but significant detail that adds to its user-friendly appeal. “The foldaway design of the Presto 06857 truly changed how I view kitchen storage,” says culinary expert Anya Sharma. “It’s a marvel of practical engineering that doesn’t compromise on cooking quality.”
Key Features That Make Presto Stand Out
Presto electric skillets aren’t popular by accident; they’re packed with features designed for real-world cooking.
Control Master® Heat Control for Precision Cooking
At the heart of every Presto electric skillet is its Control Master® heat control. This detachable probe allows for precise temperature management, ensuring your chosen heat setting remains consistent throughout the cooking process. Unlike stovetop burners that can fluctuate, this thermostat-controlled system keeps your food cooking at the exact temperature you need, crucial for delicate sauces or perfectly seared meats. The indicator light signals when the desired temperature is reached and cycles on and off to maintain it.
Superior Non-stick Surfaces
Presto understands that nobody loves scrubbing. Their skillets often feature high-quality non-stick coatings, ranging from durable Teflon (some PFAS-free) to advanced ceramic surfaces. These coatings allow you to cook with minimal oil, making meals healthier and cleanup astonishingly simple. It’s truly a joy to wipe clean rather than scrape.
Generous Capacity and Deep Sides
Both the 06852 and 06857 models offer a substantial 16-inch cooking surface, complemented by deep sides. This ample capacity means you can prepare large one-dish meals, fry chicken without excessive splatter, or even roast a small chicken with ease. The deep sides also help contain ingredients, making stirring and flipping much less messy.
Effortless Cleanup and Dishwasher Safety
One of the most praised aspects of Presto electric skillets is their ease of cleaning. Once the Control Master® heat control is removed, the skillet pan itself is often fully immersible and, for many models, even dishwasher safe. This feature turns post-meal cleanup from a chore into a quick rinse or cycle.
Cool-Touch Handles and Tempered Glass Lids
Safety and convenience are paramount. Presto skillets are designed with cool-touch handles, allowing you to move the skillet safely even during cooking. The tempered glass covers provide a clear view of your food as it cooks, trapping heat and moisture, and often feature stay-cool knobs for safe lifting.
Choosing Your Perfect Presto Electric Skillet
Selecting the right electric skillet depends on your lifestyle and culinary ambitions. Here’s a rundown of what to consider:
Size and Capacity: Match Your Meals
Think about who you’re cooking for. A 16-inch model, like the Presto 06852 or 06857, is fantastic for families of four or more, or for batch cooking and entertaining. If you’re typically cooking for one or two, a smaller 12-inch model might suffice, though the larger size offers more versatility for future needs.
Material and Coating: Durability and Health
Presto uses both durable Teflon and ceramic non-stick coatings. If you prioritize a PFAS-free option, look for ceramic non-stick. Both offer excellent food release and easy cleanup, but ceramic is often seen as a more natural choice. Remember, the quality of the non-stick will impact the skillet’s longevity and performance, so a robust coating is key.
Storage Needs: Foldaway or Fixed?
This is where the 06857 Foldaway truly distinguishes itself. If cabinet space is at a premium or you frequently take your skillet on the go (think RVs or camping), the foldaway design is a game-changer. If you have ample storage and prefer a more traditional, fixed-base appliance, the 06852 is an excellent, reliable option.
Temperature Control: Precision is Power
All Presto electric skillets feature the Control Master® system, offering precise temperature settings from “Warm” to 400°F or “Max.” Ensure the model you choose provides the range and accuracy you need for your typical cooking methods, from low simmering to high-heat searing.
Safety Features: Stability and Protection
Look for models with rubber feet to prevent sliding on your countertop. A securely fitting lid is also important to prevent steam escape and maintain consistent temperatures. Check reviews for feedback on lid fit and overall stability.
Mastering Your Presto Electric Skillet: Tips for Optimal Use
Getting the most out of your Presto electric skillet means understanding a few best practices.
Placement and Preparation
Always place your electric skillet on a dry, level, heat-resistant surface. To protect your countertops from potential heat damage, I always recommend placing a heat-resistant counter protector, such as aluminum foil or a silicone mat, underneath the skillet. Just make sure it doesn’t extend under the rubber feet, if present, to maintain stability.
The Art of Preheating
Preheating is vital for achieving the best cooking results. Insert the Control Master® heat control probe fully into the skillet, then turn it to your desired temperature. Allow 5 to 10 minutes for the skillet to preheat; the pilot light will typically turn off once the selected temperature is reached. This ensures a hot, even surface that browns food perfectly and seals in juices.
Utensils and Surface Care
To protect the non-stick surface and extend its life, always use heat-resistant nylon, plastic, wooden, or rubber utensils. Metal utensils can scratch and damage the coating over time. A crucial tip: never cut food directly on the cooking surface, as this can severely compromise the non-stick properties. Also, avoid non-stick cooking sprays, as they can build up and leave a tacky residue that’s hard to remove.
Temperature Guidance for Every Dish
Your Presto electric skillet is incredibly versatile with its temperature control.
- Browning/Searing: Aim for 325°F to 350°F to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust on meats and vegetables.
- Simmering: For dishes that need to cook low and slow, like stews or sauces, bring the food to a boil around 350°F, then reduce the heat to the “Simmer” level (often between Warm and 200°F) until the indicator light turns off.
- Holding Warm: The “Warm” setting is perfect for keeping food at a serving temperature without overcooking.
Cleaning and Storage: A Simple Process
Once cooking is complete, turn the heat control to “OFF,” unplug it from the wall outlet, and then from the appliance. Always allow the skillet to cool completely before cleaning. For easy cleanup, remove the heat control, and for many models, the pan can be washed by hand or placed in the dishwasher. For foldaway models, detaching the base makes cleaning even simpler and storage incredibly compact.
Culinary Adventures: What Can You Cook in Your Presto Electric Skillet?
The possibilities are endless with a Presto electric skillet! From simple weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend brunches, it handles a remarkable array of dishes.
- Breakfast Bonanza: Imagine fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and perfectly scrambled eggs, all cooked to perfection without crowding your stove. You can even make a family-sized omelet with ease.
- Hearty Lunches & Dinners: Think succulent fried chicken, flavorful stir-fries, slow-simmered stews, or even oven-style dishes like lasagna and enchiladas (especially if you use a baking rack). It’s also excellent for browning ground meat for tacos or pasta sauces.
- Beyond the Kitchen: Many users find their Presto electric skillet indispensable for RV trips, camping, or potlucks, thanks to its portability and self-contained heating. “My Presto electric skillet is my go-to for camping trips,” shares avid camper and chef, Marcus Thorne. “It’s so much more reliable than a campfire for cooking a hearty breakfast.”
Maintaining Your Presto Skillet for Years to Come
To ensure your Presto electric skillet remains a reliable kitchen companion for years, proper maintenance is key. After each use, once cooled, clean it thoroughly. While many pans are dishwasher safe, hand washing can be gentler on the non-stick coating, helping it last longer. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemical cleaners, as these can degrade the non-stick surface. When storing, especially for foldaway models, ensure the pan is completely dry and protect the cooking surface from scratches by placing a soft cloth between the pan and any nesting components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Presto electric skillets energy efficient?
Yes, electric skillets from Presto are generally considered energy-efficient because they heat a contained space directly, often using less energy than heating an entire stovetop burner and large pan, especially for smaller cooking tasks.
Can I use metal utensils in my Presto electric skillet?
No, it’s highly recommended to avoid metal utensils as they can scratch and damage the non-stick coating, significantly reducing the lifespan and effectiveness of your Presto electric skillet. Stick to heat-resistant nylon, plastic, wooden, or rubber tools.
How do I clean my Presto electric skillet?
After allowing the skillet to cool completely, remove the Control Master® heat control. Most Presto skillet pans are fully immersible in water and many are dishwasher safe. Hand washing with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge is also an excellent way to maintain the non-stick surface.
What are the main differences between the Presto 06852 and 06857 models?
Both are 16-inch skillets with similar cooking performance. The key difference is the 06857 is a “Foldaway” model, meaning its handles fold down and the base detaches and nests inside the pan for compact storage, which the 06852 (a classic fixed-base design) does not offer.
Can I bake in a Presto electric skillet?
Absolutely! With a Presto electric skillet, you can bake items like corn bread, biscuits, or even small casseroles. For best results, use a baking rack inside the skillet to elevate the food and ensure even heating, transforming your skillet into a countertop oven.
Embrace the Versatility of Presto
The Presto electric skillet truly stands as a testament to thoughtful kitchen appliance design, blending robust performance with user-friendly features. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, the precision, versatility, and ease of use offered by a Presto electric skillet can significantly enhance your cooking experience. From the classic reliability of the 06852 to the innovative space-saving design of the 06857 Foldaway, there’s a Presto waiting to become your next kitchen hero. So go ahead, explore the possibilities, and let a Presto electric skillet open up a world of culinary convenience and delicious meals right in your home. Your taste buds—and your stovetop—will thank you.