Durable, heat-resistant pans make cooking over open flames easy and tasty.
I’ve stood over smoky campfires and backyard fire pits wanting a pan that won’t warp, stick, or burn my food. Choosing the best frying pan for open fire saves time, reduces cleanup, and keeps meals consistent. Whether you want seared steaks, fluffy eggs, or toasted sandwiches, the right pan makes outdoor cooking simple. I’ll walk you through real-use pros and cons for each option and show who benefits most. If you’re shopping for the best frying pan for open fire, this guide will help you pick a reliable, long-lasting pan that fits your cooking style.
Merten & Storck Carbon Steel 8” Skillet
I tested this Merten & Storck Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel 8” skillet on a grill and open fire for several weekend trips. The pan heats fast and gives a great sear on meats. The pre-seasoned surface makes initial cooking easy, and with oil it stays fairly non-stick. The solid steel base holds up to high flame and direct coals. I liked how light it felt compared to heavy cast iron, which makes it ideal for backpacking or a small camp setup.
Over many uses, I found the pan gives even heat and cooks eggs well once the seasoning builds. It is versatile for searing, grilling, oven finishing, and open fire use. Cleanup is straightforward: wipe, rinse, dry quickly, and re-oil to protect the seasoning. This 8” size is compact for solo meals or side dishes. For people asking for the best frying pan for open fire that balances weight, heat performance, and seasoning potential, this carbon steel skillet is a practical pick.
Pros
- Fast heating and strong sear performance on open fire.
- Pre-seasoned surface reduces initial sticking.
- Lighter than cast iron—easier to carry for camping.
- Durable steel tolerates high direct flame.
- Works on stovetop, grill, oven, and campfire—very versatile.
Cons
- Requires maintenance and oiling to keep seasoning intact.
- Handle can become hot; needs a cloth or glove.
- Smaller 8” size limits batch cooking for groups.
- Not fully non-stick until seasoning is well developed.
- Surface may rust if not dried and oiled promptly.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Merten & Storck 8” for campers and solo cooks who want the best frying pan for open fire without the weight of cast iron. I find it perfect for quick sears, frying eggs, and finishing in coals. The best frying pan for open fire should be easy to carry, durable, and responsive to heat—this pan meets those needs.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Solo camping | Compact 8” size and lighter weight |
| Quick searing | Fast heat-up and even surface |
| Multi-surface use | Works on grill, stovetop, oven, and open fire |
Keleday 8.2” Folding Handle Pan
I used the Keleday 8.2 Inch pre-seasoned carbon steel pan with its folding handle on several hikes and campground meals. The foldable handle makes storage compact and protects the handle from direct heat when folded. The pre-seasoning helps reduce sticking on initial uses. It’s ideal for frying eggs, pancakes, and small cuts of meat over a campfire. The pan’s size and portability stood out for me when space and weight matter.
This pan heats rapidly and retains enough heat for good browning. The foldable handle locks securely and feels stable while cooking, but I still use a glove for safety. After repeated exposures to smoke and flame, the pan’s seasoning improved, and food released better. If you want a genuinely portable option that still cooks well on an open fire, this Keleday model is a smart choice for minimalists. It’s a solid contender for the best frying pan for open fire for hikers and lightweight campers.
Pros
- Folding handle for compact storage and easy packing.
- Pre-seasoned surface reduces initial sticking.
- Lightweight and travel-friendly.
- Heats quickly for efficient campfire cooking.
- Multi-use for eggs, bread, and small meats.
Cons
- Smaller surface area limits large meals.
- Handle can get hot; glove recommended.
- Thinner than heavy-duty pans—less heat retention.
- Needs care to maintain seasoning after washing.
- Not suited for very high-heat, long-duration roasting.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Keleday 8.2” folding handle pan for backpackers and campers who prioritize space and weight. I find it one of the best frying pan for open fire options for lightweight trips because it packs small and still grills and fries well. It’s a top pick when portability is the main goal.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Backpacking | Folding handle and lightweight design |
| Small group breakfasts | Quick heat-up for eggs and pancakes |
| Compact storage | Fits inside packs or cookware sets |
Bruntmor 3-in-1 Cast Iron Pan
I’ve cooked stews, roasts, and grilled sandwiches with the Bruntmor 3-in-1 pre-seasoned cast iron pan. Its heavy-duty build and reversible grill/griddle lid give real versatility. The deep design works as a Dutch oven for braises, while the lid flips to become a flat griddle. Over open flame, it holds heat exceptionally well and creates even browning. I appreciate the non-stick feel after seasoning and the durability for repeated outdoor use.
For group camping and open-fire cooking where you want one versatile piece, this pan performs like multiple tools combined. The weight is significant, so it’s best for car camping or basecamp trips. Clean-up involves wiping and re-oiling to keep the cast iron seasoned. When looking for the best frying pan for open fire that can double as a Dutch oven and griddle, the Bruntmor 3-in-1 is an excellent multi-role cooker for serious outdoor cooks.
Pros
- Multi-function: frying pan, grill, griddle, and Dutch oven.
- Excellent heat retention for even cooking on coals.
- Durable cast iron construction lasts decades with care.
- Pre-seasoned surface improves release and flavor development.
- Large size fits family meals or batch cooking.
Cons
- Heavy—less suited for backpacking.
- Longer to heat up compared to thinner pans.
- Requires regular seasoning and maintenance.
- Handle and lid get extremely hot—gloves required.
- Large footprint may need a stable cooking platform on uneven ground.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Bruntmor 3-in-1 for car campers and families who want a durable, multifunctional cooker. I consider it one of the best frying pan for open fire picks when you need a heavy-duty pan to roast, fry, and grill for groups. It brings real value for basecamp cooking.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family camping | Large size and multi-function capabilities |
| One-pot meals | Deep pan functions as a Dutch oven |
| High-heat searing | Excellent heat retention on coals |
SENSARTE Swiss Granite 9.5” Nonstick Pan
I used the SENSARTE Swiss Granite 9.5” nonstick skillet mainly on grills and controlled campfires. The stone-like coating offers a PFOA-free nonstick surface that’s helpful for delicate foods like eggs and fish. The pan is lighter than cast iron and easier to clean. For low-to-medium heat camp cooking, it performs well and reduces the need for heavy oil. The surface is smooth and food slides off nicely once preheated.
However, I avoid using it directly on open flames with large flare-ups, as intense direct flame and hot coals can damage nonstick coatings over time. For cooking near a fire on a grill grate or with controlled heat, it’s a great nonstick option. If you value easy cleanup and cooking delicate foods while still wanting the best frying pan for open fire for gentle campfire setups, this SENSARTE is worth considering.
Pros
- Comfortable nonstick coating for easy cooking and cleaning.
- PFOA-free and marketed as healthier non-toxic cookware.
- Lighter than cast iron—easier to carry and handle.
- Good for delicate foods like eggs and fish.
- Works well on grills and low-medium heat campfires.
Cons
- Not ideal for direct, high flames or coals—coating can degrade.
- Less heat retention than cast iron or carbon steel.
- Can scratch if metal utensils are used.
- Shorter lifespan if exposed to extreme outdoor heat repeatedly.
- Not pre-seasoned—relies on coating rather than seasoning.
My Recommendation
I suggest the SENSARTE 9.5” for campers who want easy cleanup and nonstick performance over controlled open flame or grill setups. I use it when I need the best frying pan for open fire for delicate foods and fast cleanup at campsite cookouts. It’s a practical choice for gentle fire cooking.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Delicate foods | Nonstick surface prevents sticking |
| Lightweight camping | Easier to carry than cast iron |
| Easy cleanup | Smooth coating wipes clean quickly |
SENSARTE 12” Deep Nonstick Pan With Lid
I tested the SENSARTE 12” deep nonstick pan with lid for larger camp meals and one-pot sautés. The deeper sides and included lid make it useful for simmering stews, cooking rice, and shallow frying. The non-toxic coating makes cleanup simple and keeps oil use moderate. The large surface area means you can fry for several people at once. I used it on a grill grate and a controlled open-fire platform with good results.
I avoid placing it directly in coals. For campsite cooks who prefer gentler flame control, this deep pan gives versatility similar to a sauté pan at home. The lid helps trap heat and reduce cooking time. If you want the best frying pan for open fire that’s roomy and keeps cleanup easy, this SENSARTE 12” accommodates family-style meals while being manageable to handle.
Pros
- Large 12” surface and deep sides for bigger meals.
- Included lid helps simmer and reduce cooking time.
- Non-toxic PFOA/PFOS-free coating for safer cooking.
- Lightweight compared to cast iron of similar size.
- Great for stews, stir-fry, and one-pot camp meals.
Cons
- Not for direct coals or very high flame—coating can be damaged.
- Less heat retention than cast iron or carbon steel.
- Careful cleaning needed to avoid scratches.
- Handles may feel less robust for heavy loads.
- Lid may become hot; use caution when removing.
My Recommendation
I recommend the SENSARTE 12” for families and groups who want a roomy, easy-clean pan for controlled fire and grill cooking. I often choose it when the best frying pan for open fire needs to feed more people and keep cleanup simple. It’s a good balance of size and convenience.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family meals | Large surface area and deep sides |
| One-pot cooking | Includes lid for simmering and steaming |
| Easy cleanup | Nonstick coating reduces scrubbing |
FAQs Of best frying pan for open fire
What materials work best for open-fire pans?
Cast iron and carbon steel are best. They tolerate high heat, hold even temperature, and develop non-stick seasoning over time.
Can I use nonstick pans directly over flames?
I avoid direct coals and very high flames with nonstick pans. Use them on a grill grate or with controlled flame to protect the coating and prolong life.
How do I maintain a carbon steel or cast iron pan after open-fire use?
I immediately wipe out residue, rinse if needed, dry thoroughly, and apply a thin coat of oil. This prevents rust and builds seasoning for better non-stick performance.
Which pan is best for backpacking versus car camping?
For backpacking, choose lightweight carbon steel or folding-handle pans. For car camping, heavy cast iron like the Bruntmor 3-in-1 offers durability and multi-function use.
How to prevent food from sticking on open-fire pans?
Ensure the pan is hot before adding oil or food. Use sufficient fat and avoid overcrowding. Maintain seasoning on carbon steel and cast iron for best release.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want the best frying pan for open fire for versatility and durability, the Bruntmor 3-in-1 cast iron is my top pick for car camping and groups. For lightweight trips, the Keleday folding-handle carbon steel shines. For gentle-fire cooking and easy cleanup, the SENSARTE nonstick pans work well.
