Electric Skillet Sticking: Causes and Fixes

Nonstick coatings wear down with metal utensils, high heat and abrasive scrubbing. Once worn, eggs and pancakes start to stick. Even on a good surface, adding food before the skillet is preheated, or cooking too hot, causes sticking.

Stainless electric skillets need oil and proper preheating, much like a stainless pan on a stove.

Why it happens and how to fix it

Preheat fully

Wait for the indicator light to cycle off before adding food.

Use some fat

A thin layer of oil or butter helps even on nonstick.

Lower the heat

High heat damages nonstick and burns food onto the surface. Medium heat works for most foods.

Remove residue

Polymerized oil builds a sticky film. Soak and clean with a non-abrasive sponge and baking soda paste.

Worn coating

If the coating is scratched or flaking, replace the skillet.