After dinner, we’ve all looked at a dirty electric skillet and thought about whether or not the meal was worth the work to clean it. You know precisely what I mean if you’ve ever spent fifteen minutes scraping off fried cheese with a sigh. When I switched to an electric skillet with removable base, the whole kitchen changed very quickly.

First, let’s talk about cleaning up after dinner. The difference is huge. You don’t have to fight with a bulky unit with cords hanging everywhere; just take the pan out and put it in the dishwasher. Instead of trying to solve a greasy problem, you’re sitting back and letting the machine do the work. I used to stay away from creating some things since they made such a mess. Not anymore.

It also seems easier to cook. One dinner, one pan, and then you may switch to the next dish without any smells or tastes left over. One day it’s hash browns, the next it’s teriyaki chicken, and there’s no indication of the meal that came before. Some skillets come with pans that you can change out, making it easy to grill, cook, or sauté whatever you choose. You can have pancakes for breakfast and grilled vegetables for lunch without the taste of leftovers.

Have you ever had trouble finding a space for a big, single-piece skillet? That’s in the past now. The two smaller components fit into the cupboard without making it feel like a game of stacking blocks in the kitchen. My kitchen shelf has never been so neat.

Dinner with the family or a potluck? Simply unhook the base, move the pan over, and place it on the table. Less dishes to wash, no additional bowls, and food that remains warm longer. People you know and love will believe you’re a cooking magician, which is great because it means you have to do less work.

There is also more safety. Cleaning an equipment that is plugged into the wall is hard, especially while it is still hot. You can clean safely and comfortably with a detachable pan, so you don’t have to worry about zapping your fingers or leaving a mess on your counter.

These skillets are also easy to use since they have clear temperature knobs, smooth nonstick surfaces, and even heating. You never have to worry about things sticking or burning, and you always get the same results. Dinner on weeknights doesn’t feel like a chore anymore.

This is an upgrade that really pays off if you’ve ever wanted the conclusion of supper to be less scary and more relaxing. A fast release pan may look little, but it makes cooking and cleaning up a lot easier and more fun in busy kitchens.