As a passionate home cook, I’ve spent countless hours in the kitchen experimenting with tools that make cooking both fun and efficient. When it came to choosing between the Staub Everything Pan and the Staub All Day Pan, I found myself curious about which would best suit my needs.
This article explores both pans, offering a detailed look at their features, performance, and quirks through my own experiences. You’ll find a comparison table, pros and cons, and answers to common questions to help you decide which pan deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Comparison Table: Staub Everything Pan Vs. All Day Pan
| Feature | Staub Everything Pan | Staub All Day Pan |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3.5 quarts | 2.9 quarts |
| Diameter | 12 inches | 10 inches |
| Lid Type | Cast iron with self-basting spikes | Glass, no self-basting spikes |
| Weight | 9 pounds | 7.26 pounds |
| Handle Design | Vintage “ear” handles, curved | Double handles, upturned |
| Cooktop Compatibility | All, including induction | All, including induction |
| Oven-Safe Temperature | Up to 500°F | Up to 500°F |
| Primary Uses | Braising, roasting, baking, sautéing | Sautéing, frying, braising, steaming |
| Color Options | Multiple (e.g., graphite, cherry) | Limited (e.g., cherry, cranberry) |
| Price Range | $200-$250 | $150-$200 |
My Experience With The Staub Everything Pan
I’ll admit, the first time I held the Staub Everything Pan, I was struck by its heft.
At 9 pounds empty, it’s not something you casually toss around the kitchen. But that weight is part of its charm—it’s a beast that conducts heat like a dream.
I’ve used it to braise short ribs, roast vegetables, and even whip up a fruit cobbler, and it’s become my go-to for dishes that need to go from stovetop to oven.
The 3.5-quart capacity is generous, perfect for family-sized meals or batch cooking.
Its 12-inch diameter gives me plenty of room to sear multiple pieces of meat without crowding, which is a game-changer for browning. The cast iron lid, with its self-basting spikes, is a standout feature.
These little dimples redistribute moisture during cooking, keeping dishes like my braised chicken thighs tender and flavorful. I noticed a real difference compared to other pans I’ve used—the meat stays juicy without needing constant attention.
The vintage “ear” handles are another highlight. They’re curved for a secure grip, even with oven mitts, though they do get hot, so I’ve learned to keep mitts handy. The enamel coating is stunning, and I chose the graphite grey, which looks elegant on my table.
Cleanup is straightforward—most messes wipe away with soap and water, though I’ve had to scrub a bit harder after frying. One quirk? The black enamel interior hides stains well, but it can make it tricky to spot sticking or burning, especially for a less experienced cook like I was a few years ago.
Overall, this pan feels like a lifelong investment. It’s versatile, durable, and performs beautifully across a range of cooking techniques. Whether I’m sautéing vegetables or baking a casserole, it delivers consistent results that make me feel like a pro.
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Pros Of The Staub Everything Pan
- Generous Capacity: The 3.5-quart size is ideal for large meals, easily handling dishes for 4-6 people without overcrowding.
- Self-Basting Lid: The cast iron lid’s spikes ensure moisture stays in, making braises and roasts tender and flavorful.
- Wide Cooking Surface: At 12 inches, it’s perfect for searing multiple items, like pork chops, without steaming them.
- Stunning Design: Available in vibrant colors, it transitions seamlessly from oven to table, doubling as a serving dish.
- Durable Enamel: The coating resists chipping and scratching, holding up well to daily use with proper care.
- Versatile Uses: From braising to baking to roasting, it handles a wide range of cooking tasks with ease.
- Induction-Friendly: Works on all cooktops, including induction, making it a fit for any kitchen setup.
The Everything Pan’s ability to multitask is what sets it apart. I’ve used it for everything from deep-frying chicken to making paella, and it never disappoints. The self-basting lid is particularly impressive for slow-cooked dishes, as it eliminates the need to baste manually. While it’s pricier than the All Day Pan, the extra capacity and lid design justify the cost for serious cooks.
Cons Of The Staub Everything Pan
- Heavy Weight: At 9 pounds, it’s a challenge to lift, especially when full, making it less ideal for quick tasks.
- Higher Price: Priced between $200-$250, it’s a significant investment compared to more affordable options.
- Hot Handles: The cast iron handles heat up, requiring oven mitts for safe handling during cooking.
- Dark Interior: The black enamel can obscure sticking or burning, which might be tricky for beginners.
- Larger Footprint: Its 12-inch diameter takes up more storage space than smaller pans.
- Not Non-Stick: While the enamel helps, it’s not a true non-stick surface, so some foods may stick without proper technique.
- Limited Color Options: Fewer color choices compared to other Staub products, which might disappoint some.
The weight is the biggest drawback for me. When filled with food, it’s closer to 12 pounds, and I’ve struggled to pour sauces one-handed. The price also gave me pause initially, but its durability and performance have made it worth every penny. For smaller kitchens or less frequent cooks, the size and weight might feel excessive.
My Experience With The Staub All Day Pan
The Staub All Day Pan caught my eye with its sleek, wok-like design and lighter weight. At 7.26 pounds, it’s noticeably easier to handle than the Everything Pan, especially for quick weeknight meals. Its 2.9-quart capacity and 10-inch diameter make it perfect for smaller portions, like stir-frying vegetables or sautéing a couple of chicken breasts. I’ve also used it to steam dumplings, and the glass lid is a game-changer for monitoring progress without lifting it.
The high-sloped sides are great for tossing ingredients, and I love how it heats evenly across my induction cooktop. The double handles are comfortable and stay cooler than the Everything Pan’s, though they’re still not heat-proof. I got the cherry red version, and it’s a showstopper on the table. Cleanup is a breeze, especially since the enamel resists staining, though I’ve had to be careful not to overheat it, as that can cause sticking.
One thing I noticed is that the glass lid, while practical, doesn’t offer the same moisture retention as the Everything Pan’s cast iron lid. My braised dishes were good but not as succulent. Still, for everyday tasks like frying or steaming, this pan is a joy to use, and its lighter weight makes it a staple in my kitchen.
Pros Of The Staub All Day Pan
- Lighter Weight: At 7.26 pounds, it’s easier to maneuver than the Everything Pan, especially for quick tasks.
- Glass Lid: Allows you to monitor cooking without lifting the lid, perfect for steaming or simmering.
- Wok-Like Design: High-sloped sides make it ideal for stir-frying and tossing ingredients.
- Compact Size: The 10-inch diameter saves storage space, great for smaller kitchens.
- Affordable Price: Priced at $150-$200, it’s more budget-friendly than the Everything Pan.
- Even Heating: Cast iron construction ensures consistent heat distribution across all cooktops.
- Elegant Look: Vibrant colors and sleek design make it a beautiful serving piece.
This pan shines for its versatility in smaller-scale cooking. The glass lid is a practical touch, letting me keep an eye on my sauces without losing heat. It’s also less intimidating for casual cooks who don’t want to wrestle with a heavier pan. The price point feels more accessible, making it a great entry into Staub’s premium cookware.
Cons Of The Staub All Day Pan
- Smaller Capacity: The 2.9-quart size limits its use for larger meals or batch cooking.
- No Self-Basting: The glass lid lacks spikes, so braises may not be as moist as with the Everything Pan.
- Fragile Lid: Glass is less durable than cast iron and can steam up, reducing visibility.
- Hot Handles: Like the Everything Pan, the handles get hot, requiring careful handling.
- Limited Colors: Fewer color options (e.g., cherry, cranberry) compared to other Staub lines.
- Not Non-Stick: Foods can stick if not properly preheated or oiled, similar to other enameled cast iron.
- Less Versatile: Better suited for sautéing and frying than heavy-duty braising or roasting.
The smaller capacity was a noticeable limitation when I tried cooking for a group. The glass lid, while handy, steams up quickly, making it hard to see inside during stovetop cooking. For occasional cooks or those with smaller households, these cons might not be dealbreakers, but they stood out compared to the Everything Pan’s robustness.
Comparison With Other Brands
- Le Creuset Braiser: Le Creuset’s 3.5-quart braiser is similar to the Everything Pan in size and versatility but has a glossy off-white interior. It’s easier to spot sticking but shows stains more. Its lids lack self-basting spikes, and it’s slightly lighter at 8.5 pounds. Priced similarly ($200-$250), it’s a close competitor, but I prefer Staub’s matte black interior for hiding wear.
- All-Clad Stainless Steel Braiser: All-Clad’s braiser is lighter (around 6 pounds) and excels at quick searing but lacks the heat retention of cast iron. It’s less versatile for oven tasks and pricier ($250-$300). Staub’s pans feel more substantial for slow cooking.
- Lodge Enameled Cast Iron: Lodge’s 3-quart braiser is budget-friendly ($80-$120) but chips more easily than Staub. It’s heavier (10 pounds) and lacks the premium aesthetic. Staub’s durability and design make it worth the extra cost.
- Misen Braiser: Misen’s 3.5-quart braiser is comparable in size and price ($150-$200) to the Everything Pan. It performs well but has a less refined enamel finish. Staub’s self-basting lid gives it an edge for braising.
- Our Place Always Pan: The Always Pan (2.6 quarts, $145) is lighter and non-stick but not induction-compatible. It’s great for casual cooking but less durable for heavy-duty tasks compared to Staub’s pans.
Staub’s pans stand out for their craftsmanship and versatility. Le Creuset is a strong rival, but its lighter interior shows wear faster. Budget brands like Lodge are tempting but don’t match Staub’s durability or aesthetic appeal. For premium performance, Staub’s Everything and All Day Pans hold their own against competitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sticking happens if the pan isn’t properly preheated or oiled. Always preheat on medium heat and add oil to create a slick surface before cooking.
Not quite. A braiser, like the Everything Pan, is deeper with a cast iron lid for slow cooking. The All Day Pan, an everyday pan, has a glass lid and wok-like shape for versatile tasks.
Staub pans are costly due to their French craftsmanship, durable enamel, and cast iron construction. The quality ensures lifelong use and superior performance.
Yes, Staub’s enameled cast iron is free of PFOA, PTFE, cadmium, and lead, making it safe and non-toxic for cooking.
Conclusion: For The Staub Everything Pan Vs. All Day Pan
You’ve seen my journey with the Staub Everything Pan and All Day Pan, and I hope it’s helped clarify which might be your kitchen’s MVP. The Everything Pan is your pick if you love hosting or need a workhorse for braising and roasting. Its capacity and self-basting lid make it a dream for big, flavorful dishes. The All Day Pan suits smaller households or quick meals, with its lighter weight and glass lid perfect for everyday tasks. Consider your cooking style and needs—you can’t go wrong with either, but one will likely fit your kitchen better.