Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet Review: Your Guide to Versatile Kitchen Power

Stepping into the kitchen, many home cooks dream of an appliance that can handle everything from a hearty stir-fry for the whole family to a batch of crispy fried chicken. If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for more space and consistent heat than your stovetop provides, an electric skillet might be the answer. Among the myriad options, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet often catches the eye with its promise of ample capacity and robust performance. But does it truly deliver on its pledge to simplify and enhance your cooking experience? This comprehensive review dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet to help you decide if this kitchen workhorse deserves a spot on your countertop.

Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet: Key Features at a Glance

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet, specifically model 14620, stands out primarily due to its generous size and thoughtful design, tailored for handling substantial cooking tasks. It boasts a 12-inch by 12-inch cooking surface paired with a striking 3-inch deep interior, providing a substantial 6-quart usable capacity for family-sized meals or batch cooking. This extra depth is a game-changer for dishes that require more volume, such as simmering large pots of chili or deep-frying without messy oil splatters.

Powering this skillet is a robust heating system, often cited as 1400 watts, which ensures quick preheating times. The removable temperature probe allows for precise control, adjustable up to 400°F, including a “keep warm” setting around 150°F. This broad temperature range caters to a variety of cooking methods, from gentle simmering to high-heat searing.

One of the most touted features is its non-stick copper ceramic coating. Crux claims this coating is ten times more durable than typical non-stick surfaces and is safe for use with metal utensils. Importantly, it is also PTFE and PFOA-free, addressing common health concerns associated with traditional non-stick cookware. The skillet itself is constructed from durable cast aluminum, a material known for its even heat distribution and resistance to deformation under high heat. To complete the package, it comes with a tempered glass lid, featuring a steam vent and a thermosetting plastic handle, and is designed to be dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup.

Close-up of Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet showing its 6-quart capacity and deep interior

Performance Review: Putting the Crux Skillet to the Test

When it comes to real-world performance, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet presents a mixed but generally positive picture. Its design clearly caters to those who need significant cooking volume and versatility.

Heating and Temperature Consistency

The skillet impresses with its fast preheating, allowing you to get cooking without much delay. Many users report excellent and even heat distribution across the cooking surface, which is crucial for uniform cooking, particularly when preparing larger quantities of food. This consistent heat spread helps prevent hot spots that can lead to unevenly cooked meals. However, some reviews indicate that while the heat distribution is good, the temperature stabilization point can be a bit low for certain high-heat tasks. For instance, achieving a perfectly seared medium-rare steak or consistently fluffy pancakes has sometimes proven challenging, as the skillet may struggle to maintain the desired high temperature without fluctuations. A few users also noted the temperature control dial could use more refinement for precise adjustments.

Cooking Versatility

The extra deep design is where the Crux skillet truly shines in terms of versatility. It excels at cooking large family meals, such as a substantial batch of pasta sauce, chili, or stew. It’s also an excellent choice for deep-frying, as the depth helps contain oil splashes and accommodates a good volume of food. Sautéing, simmering, and even roasting smaller cuts of meat are well within its capabilities. One reviewer praised its ability to handle cooking for a crowd, making it ideal for entertaining or meal prepping. However, for highly delicate items that require ultra-precise, consistent low heat, or very high, sustained searing temperatures, the skillet’s performance can be somewhat average.

Non-Stick Performance and Durability

The copper ceramic non-stick coating generally receives positive feedback for its effectiveness, allowing food to release easily and requiring less oil for cooking, which promotes healthier meals. Its claimed durability and metal utensil safety are significant advantages, although some users advise caution to maintain its longevity. Despite the overall positive reception for the coating, there have been occasional reports of minor imperfections, such as grainy specs on the surface or chipping on the rim, which could indicate potential manufacturing inconsistencies. While most everyday cleaning is a breeze, some reviewers noted that stubborn burnt-on residues, like caramel stains, might require a bit more effort to remove.

Build Quality and Ease of Cleaning

The skillet feels solid and well-constructed, with a durable cast aluminum pan. The tempered glass lid, with its steam vent, adds to its functionality. A major convenience factor is that the skillet pan and glass lid are dishwasher safe, simplifying the post-meal cleanup process significantly, though the thermostat probe must be removed and hand-washed.

Family-sized meal cooking in the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet, showcasing non-stick surface

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

Like any kitchen appliance, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these can help you determine if it aligns with your specific cooking needs.

Pros:

• Generous Capacity: The 6-quart volume and 3-inch deep interior are perfect for large family meals, batch cooking, and deep-frying, offering 50% more capacity than some standard skillets.
• Durable Non-Stick Coating: The copper ceramic coating is PTFE and PFOA-free, metal utensil safe, and generally provides excellent food release with less oil, contributing to healthier cooking.
• Even Heat Distribution: Many users commend its ability to distribute heat uniformly across the cooking surface, preventing hot spots.
• Versatile Cooking: Ideal for a wide range of dishes, including frying, sautéing, simmering, and roasting.
• Easy to Clean: The non-stick surface makes cleanup straightforward, and the pan and glass lid are conveniently dishwasher safe.
• Quick Preheating: The 1400-watt heating system ensures it reaches desired temperatures rapidly.

Cons:

• Temperature Stabilization Issues: For specific tasks requiring very precise or sustained high heat, such as searing a perfect steak or delicate pancakes, the temperature stabilization can be inconsistent, leading to average results.
• Temperature Dial Precision: Some users find the temperature control dial to be less precise than desired, requiring some trial and error.
• Potential Manufacturing Imperfections: Isolated reports mention minor chipping on the rim of the coating or grainy specs on the surface, raising minor concerns about long-term durability for some units.
• Not the Cheapest Option: While offering premium features, it’s not the most budget-friendly electric skillet on the market.
• Stubborn Residues: While generally easy to clean, some persistent burnt-on food might require more effort.

Who Should Buy the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet is an excellent choice for specific types of cooks and households. It’s particularly well-suited for:

• Families or Those Who Cook for Crowds: Its generous 6-quart capacity makes it ideal for preparing large meals, ensuring everyone gets a hearty serving.
• Entertainers: Perfect for making substantial dishes when hosting gatherings.
• Batch Cooks and Meal Preppers: The large volume allows for cooking big batches of food to be stored for later in the week.
• Deep-Frying Enthusiasts: The extra depth is a significant advantage for deep-frying, providing ample space and reducing splatters.
• Those Seeking a Versatile One-Pot Solution: It can handle numerous cooking tasks, reducing the need for multiple pots and pans.
• Health-Conscious Cooks: The PTFE/PFOA-free non-stick coating requires less oil, supporting healthier cooking habits.

Conversely, if your primary cooking needs involve highly specialized tasks requiring extremely precise, unwavering low-temperature control, or if you frequently cook delicate items that demand a consistently perfect sear without any temperature fluctuations, you might find some limitations. However, for everyday versatility and capacity, the Crux skillet offers substantial value.

Tips for Maximizing Your Crux Skillet Experience

To get the most out of your Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet and ensure its longevity, consider these practical tips:

• Proper Preheating: Always allow the skillet to fully preheat to the desired temperature before adding food. This helps achieve even cooking and better searing results.
• Use Appropriate Utensils: While the coating is marketed as metal utensil safe, using silicone, wooden, or plastic utensils can help prolong the life of the non-stick surface and prevent any potential scratching.
• Clean Promptly: After each use, allow the skillet to cool completely before cleaning. For best results and to prevent stubborn build-up, clean it as soon as possible.
• Gentle Cleaning: Although dishwasher safe, hand washing with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge can be gentler on the non-stick coating and the skillet’s exterior, especially for the base.
• Storage: Store the skillet carefully to avoid scratching the non-stick surface with other cookware. Consider placing a soft cloth or paper towel between the skillet and other items if stacking.
• Experiment with Temperature: If you encounter issues with temperature stabilization for certain dishes, try adjusting the dial slightly or monitoring with an external thermometer to find the optimal setting for your specific recipe.

Comparing the Crux Skillet to the Competition

In the crowded market of electric skillets, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet holds its own, often competing with premium brands. When compared to more budget-friendly alternatives like some Hamilton Beach models, the Crux often surpasses them in terms of depth, providing greater capacity, and often features a superior non-stick coating. Against medium-sized skillets like the GreenLife, the Crux has demonstrated better heat distribution. However, for specific cooking performances, such as delicate pancakes or perfectly seared steaks, other models might offer more consistent temperature stabilization. The Crux distinguishes itself with its ample depth, durable ceramic coating, and sleek aesthetic, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing volume and a modern look.

Conclusion

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet is a commendable kitchen appliance that brings significant versatility and capacity to the home cook. Its extra deep design and robust non-stick ceramic coating make it an excellent choice for preparing large family meals, batch cooking, and especially deep-frying. While it excels in even heat distribution and ease of cleaning, some users may find its temperature stabilization for very high-heat searing or delicate tasks to be less consistent than ideal. Despite minor reported imperfections in coating and temperature control, its overall durability, generous size, and healthier non-stick surface offer substantial value. If you’re a cook who frequently prepares meals for a crowd or requires extra depth for diverse culinary adventures, this electric skillet is a worthy investment that can streamline your cooking process and expand your kitchen capabilities.

Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with an appliance that handles big tasks with ease, or do precise temperature control for delicate dishes remain your top priority?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet truly non-stick?

Yes, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet features a copper ceramic non-stick coating that is generally effective at preventing food from sticking and requires less oil for cooking. It is also PTFE and PFOA-free for healthier cooking.

Can I deep-fry in the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

Absolutely! The 3-inch deep interior and 6-quart capacity make it particularly well-suited for deep-frying, allowing for sufficient oil volume and minimizing splatters.

How do I clean the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

The skillet pan and glass lid are dishwasher safe, offering convenient cleanup. The removable temperature probe should be hand-washed and never immersed in water.

What is the maximum temperature of the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet can reach temperatures up to 400°F (approximately 204°C) using its removable temperature probe. It also includes a “keep warm” setting around 150°F.

Is the non-stick coating durable and metal utensil safe?

The copper ceramic non-stick coating is marketed as 10 times more durable than traditional non-stick surfaces and safe for metal utensils. While generally robust, using non-metal utensils can help ensure its longevity.

Is the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet good for searing meat?

While it preheats quickly and has good heat distribution, some users report that its temperature stabilization can be inconsistent for achieving a perfect, sustained high-heat sear on items like steaks. Results for searing can vary.

What are the dimensions of the cooking surface?

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet provides a 12-inch by 12-inch square cooking surface, offering ample space for large meals.