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Because of this particular factor, the word skillet is almost always used to refer to cast iron skillets.

No, a frying pan and a skillet are not exactly the same. Both are made of stainless steel, but their main difference lies in the height of the sides. Fry pans have lower sloping sides for easier flipping, while French skillets hold higher straight sides for more food or liquid.

Skillets and sauté pans are great for everyday cooking and are therefore best when made from durable and versatile material. While each type is available in an assortment of materials — stainless steel, nonstick surfaces, ceramic, cast iron, etc. — a single layer of material can’t provide all the functions needed for a variety of cooking.