Stainless steel pan: how to prevent food from sticking? (Simple and effective tips)

Have you just bought a stainless steel pan, motivated by health and sustainability?
But here's the thing: on the first try, the eggs stick, the steak too, and you wonder if you've made a mistake.

Stainless steel is a fantastic material... if you know how to use it. Here's how to prevent food from sticking in your stainless steel pan – stress-free, Teflon-free, and without ruining your meal.

---

🔍 Why does food stick to stainless steel?

Stainless steel is an uncoated material, so it's not non-stick by default. When used incorrectly, food—especially proteins—will stick. This isn't a defect; it's a matter of thermal reaction and improper cooking.

The two classic mistakes:

• Pan not hot enough : food "seals" together when cold.

• Not enough fat : stainless steel has no coating to compensate.

But rest assured: stainless steel naturally becomes non-stick when heated thoroughly. This is the famous water droplet test method. , which we discuss in more detail in our complete guide on using a stainless steel pan.

---

🔥 Simple method to prevent sticking (tested and approved)

Here is the universal method for cooking without sticking:

✅ 1. Heat the pan empty
Place the pan over medium heat. Wait 2-3 minutes.

✅ 2. Perform the water drop test
Add a drop of water to the center of the pan:

• If it splits and evaporates immediately → not hot enough.

• If it forms a bouncing ball → perfect temperature!

This is what is called the Leidenfrost point . At this point, a thin layer of water vapor forms between the metal and the food → no more sticking.

✅ 3. Add your fat
Olive oil, coconut oil, butter… It doesn’t matter, just use enough to cover the bottom.
The oil should be heated slightly before adding the food.

✅ 4. Let the food cook without touching it
Example: for meat, wait for the Maillard reaction (golden crust) before turning over.
If it's still a little sticky, it means it's not ready to be turned over.

💡 You can also take a look at our 3 mistakes to avoid when cooking with a stainless steel pan to avoid the most frequent snags.

---

🍳 And what about the eggs?

Eggs are the most delicate. Here's the special version:

1. Heat the pan thoroughly using the drop test.

2. Add a generous layer of fat.

3. Crack the egg into a small bowl, then pour gently.

4. Cover the pan for 30 seconds to finish cooking with gentle steam.

Result: not stuck, not burnt, no hassle.
To learn more, discover how to cook fried eggs in a stainless steel pan without them sticking. .

---

✅ And with SAINE pans, it's even simpler

At SAINE , we only offer 100% stainless steel pans, without coating, healthy and durable.
✔️ Food-grade 18/10 stainless steel
✔️ Triple encapsulated base for even heating
✔️ Compatible with all hobs, including induction

👉 Discover the collection here:
🔗 Our HEALTHY stainless steel pans

And if you often cook for several people, consider our complete stainless steel cookware set. , ideal for efficient and consistent cooking.

---

❓ Quick FAQ

Is it normal for food to stick to a stainless steel pan at first?
Yes, it takes time to understand the correct technique. It's like learning to ride a bike: after 2-3 uses, it becomes natural.
👉 Discover also the perfect cooking method with a stainless steel pan to fine-tune your settings.

Do you need to season a stainless steel pan?
No, it's not like cast iron. No need for a permanent oily film.

Is it possible to cook without oil in a stainless steel pan?
Technically yes, but not recommended, especially at the beginning. It's better to use a little grease to prevent sticking.