Okay, let’s be real. Between work, errands, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life, cooking a decent meal during the week can feel like climbing Mount Everest. That’s why I’m always on the hunt for kitchen gadgets that make life easier without turning me into a short-order cook. Enter the Presto 06858 Slimline Electric Skillet. I’d heard good things, so I decided to give it a whirl – and I’m so glad I did.
First off, this thing is slim. Seriously, my cabinets are already overflowing, so the fact that this skillet doesn’t take up a ton of space is a major win. The glass lid feels solid, not flimsy, and the handle stays cool, which is a blessing for someone as clumsy as me. And that 16-inch cooking surface? Perfect for everything from family-sized fajitas to quick weeknight pastas.
But does it actually cook well? That’s the million-dollar question, right? Well, I put it through its paces, starting with a simple stir-fry. I’m talking chicken, broccoli, the works. The skillet heated up super fast, and the non-stick surface was a dream. I barely needed any oil, and the chicken got that nice, golden-brown sear we all crave. Plus, cleanup was a snap – a quick wipe with a soapy sponge, and I was done. No scrubbing required!
Next up, I decided to get a little more ambitious and try a one-pan casserole. I’ll admit, I was skeptical. Baking in an electric skillet? Seemed a little dicey. But guess what? It worked like a charm! Everything cooked evenly, and the bottom didn’t burn, which is a common problem I have when trying this on the stovetop.
And for a weekend treat, I even whipped up a batch of pancakes. Now, it’s not going to replace my griddle when I’m feeding a crowd, but for a small batch, it did the trick. Those pancakes flipped like a dream thanks to that non-stick surface.
So, what’s the verdict?
Here’s what I love:
- It does it all: Seriously, from stir-fries to casseroles to pancakes, this skillet can handle almost anything.
- That non-stick surface is no joke: Food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s PFAS-free, which is a big plus in my book.
- It heats evenly: No more hot spots! Just consistent, reliable cooking.
- It’s a space saver: That slim design is perfect for small kitchens.
- Cleaning is a cinch: Remove the heat control, and you can dunk the whole thing in the sink.
- It won’t break the bank: You get a lot of bang for your buck with this skillet.
A couple of minor gripes:
- The temperature control dial is a bit basic: It works, but it’s not exactly high-tech.
- A built-in timer would be nice: But hey, you can’t have everything, right?
The Bottom Line:
The Presto 06858 16-Inch Slimline Electric Skillet has become my go-to for quick and easy weeknight meals. It’s versatile, easy to use, and cleans up in a flash. Sure, it’s not the fanciest appliance on the market, but it gets the job done without any fuss. If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable electric skillet that can handle just about anything you throw at it, look no further. Seriously, you won’t regret it. I know I don’t!