If you’ve ever seen Gordon Ramsay sizzling a steak on a gleaming HexClad pan and felt a pang of envy, you’re not alone. But the ALDI Crofton Stainless Steel Frying Pan might just be giving it a run for its money.
HexClad’s hybrid design – that signature hexagonal surface – combines the ease of the best non-stick pans with the searing power of stainless steel. I'm a chef and a cookware reviewer, so I tested it for a full HexClad review, and can confidently say it’s a game-changer for sticky ingredients, like tofu and delicate eggs.
But there’s no denying: HexClad is expensive. A medium 10-inch Hybrid Fry Pan costs $179 on Hexlad.com. So, you can imagine my surprise when I spotted the almost identical Crofton Pan for just $16.99 at ALDI.
There is scant information about the Crofton pans on the US website, but according to ADLI UK, these pans are suitable for all hob types (including induction), dishwasher-safe, and tough enough to handle metal utensils without damaging the cooking surface. Here are my thoughts as a cookware expert.
Visually, ALDI's pan is nearly identical to HexClad with a stainless steel base and honeycomb surface. The Crofton pan also uses tri-ply technology, with two layers of stainless steel surrounding an aluminium core to promote even heat distribution and a professional sear. The most noticeable difference is the handle design, which appears less ergonomic than HexClad. Of course, the cheap price raises concerns about durability.
HexClad makes the very best non-stick pan on the market. In my testing, I cooked perfect eggs, halloumi, and sticky tofu with minimal oil, and everything slid right off effortlessly. It's one of the best non-toxic cookware options, too, as HexClad have recently transitioned to using a ceramic-based coating that is free from PFTE and PFAS. It is over $150 more expensive than ALDI's replica, but HexClad stands by its quality with a limited lifetime warranty, which ALDI cannot match.
Read more: HexClad cookware review
I haven’t been able to test the Crofton pan myself just yet (my local ALDI had already sold out – no surprise), so I can’t speak to its performance until I get my hands on one.
As a cookware expert, my main concern would be longevity. Some budget non-stick pans have been known to degrade quickly, leaving a stuck-on, burnt mess after just a few months of use.
HexClad has invested a lot of time and money into developing a non-stick surface that can withstand everyday use. Recently, the brand also switched to a safer ceramic coating, similar to GreenPan's Thermolon cookware, which is celebrated for its strength and non-toxic longevity.
Frying an egg in the HexClad Hybrid Fry Pan in my test kitchen
While the ALDI UK website reassures shoppers that the Crofton pans are free from 'harsh chemical coatings', it’s worth looking for clear labels like 'PFAS-free' when shopping for cookware that is safe for long-term use.
Of course, proper care is essential for any non-stick pan, premium or budget. One of the fastest ways to ruin non-stick cookware is by exposing it to high heat, scraping it with metal utensils, or running it through the dishwasher with harsh detergents. For best results – and a longer-lasting pan – I always recommend hand-washing gently with a soft melamine sponge, like this one from Williams Sonoma and avoiding overheating, no matter the brand.
My favorite budget-friendly pans
Our team has tried and tested these affordable fry pans and can assure you of their quality in the kitchen.
It might look and feel cheap, but the Ninja Neverstick is surprisingly effective. In 8 months of testing, the coating didn't cause sticking or flake off, and it's all backed by a 10-year warranty. You just have to clean and use it carefully.
Stainless steel is a favourite among restaurant chefs, thanks to its lightweight, unfussy, and durable construction. Our editor, Jen, was recently inspired by Ina Garten to switch to the affordable Tramontina range. She says, 'The sleek European design and premium materials deliver exceptional quality, durability, and performance'.
For frying delicate fish and eggs, GreenPan's ceramic non-stick is one of the best in the business. This duo includes small and medium-sized fry pans, which will suit beginner cooks. It is very budget-friendly in comparison to other non-stick, non-toxic cookware brands like HexClad.
Considering the low price of the ALDI fry pan, I think it is certainly worth a try – especially if you’ve been curious about HexClad design but are not quite ready to make the investment. I’ll be keeping an eye out during my next ALDI run, and I’ll report back soon.
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