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What Kind of Pans Can You Use on an Induction Cooktop?

Mushrooms in a pan cooking on an induction cooktop.

All the buzz is on induction cooktops, and we are all for it. Induction cooktops are a sleek and modern way to elevate a kitchen design. Their greatness extends beyond their beauty: they also bring power and speed to the cooking game. Induction cooktops give home chefs the opportunity to configure their dream kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances with advanced features to make the culinary experience Simply Better.

This revolutionary appliance is becoming more and more popular as the benefits of induction cooking spread. Here at Simply Better Living, we will break down some of the most sought-after answers when it comes to cooking with induction including how to clean an induction cooktop, how the process works, and what pots and pans can be used on the appliance.

Induction cooking works by electromagnetic fields generating instant heat directly to the cookware’s bottom, rather than indirectly through heating the ceramic glass surface. The induction technology automatically detects when magnetic cookware is placed in the cooking zone of the cooktop surface. An electromagnetic field below the glass-ceramic cooktop transfers current (heat) directly to the cookware. Because of this heating technology, only certain cooking materials will work on an induction cooktop. Don’t fret! Before tossing your pots and pans out and purchasing a whole new set, you may already have magnetic cookware in your cabinets. Let’s dive into the Do’s and Don’ts of Induction Cookware to help you prepare.

If you have a Sharp Induction Cooktop or another Sharp Appliance, we would love to see how you style it and your favorite dishes to prepare with it. Share with us on FacebookTwitterInstagram, and TikTok by tagging us and using #SharpHome!

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What Kind of Pans Are Best For Induction Cooktops?

Pots on Sharp Induction Cooktop

The Power Boost feature on the Sharp SCH3043GB increases power by up to 67%, depending on the cooking zone.

  • Magnetic Stainless Steel
  • Cast Iron
  • Enameled Iron
  • Nickel

When purchasing cookware, check to see if the cookware is suitable for induction cooking. There will often be a symbol indicating induction compatibility on the retail box. To check if the cookware is suitable for induction cooking, test if the base is attracted by a magnet. Flat-bottomed pots or pans with or made from Magnetic Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Enameled Iron, and Nickel will work best on induction cooktops. For better heat distribution and more even cooking, use quality cookware with heavy bottoms.

What Cookware Can Not be Used on an Induction Cooktop?

Certain materials in some pots and pans are not compatible with induction cooktops and will not work with the heating technology. Do not use pots and pans on your cooktop with or made from the following:

  • Non-magnetic stainless steel
  • Pot with stands
  • Heat resistant glass
  • Ceramic
  • Copper
  • Aluminum

Can You Use Nonstick Pans on an Induction Cooktop?

induction cooktop with pot and veggies

Depending on the material of the pan, you may be able to use a nonstick pan on your induction cooktop. If the pan has magnetic stainless steel, cast iron, enameled iron, or nickel base you can use it with induction cooktops. However,  if the nonstick pan is made from one of the unapproved materials (such as aluminum), the pan will not be compatible with the cooktop.

Can I Use Stainless Steel For Induction Cooking?

Heavy, high-quality stainless steel cookware is recommended to use on your Induction Cooktop surface. Stainless steel cookware with magnetic bottoms can be used for induction cooking, however, stainless steel cookware without magnetic bottoms cannot be used.

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About Sharp Home Electronics Company of America (SHCA)

SHCA is the US Consumer Products Group of Sharp Electronics Corporation, the US sales subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer and manufacturer of one-of-a-kind premium technology products.  SHCA includes the manufacturing of premium home appliances in Memphis, TN, together with the sales & marketing, and servicing of home electronics based in Montvale, NJ.  Leading products include Sharp AQUOS™ TVs, Sharp Carousel®, Microwave Drawer™ ovens, SuperSteam+™ ovens, and Plasmacluster® Ion air purifiers.

Sharp Corporation appears on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies for 2023. Sharp Electronics Corporation received a 2023 award for Best Places to Work in NJ. Learn more at http://www.sharpusa.com/.

Sharp, AQUOS, Carousel, Microwave Drawer, SuperSteam+, Plasmacluster, and all related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sharp Corporation and/or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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