This sounds like a kitchen OOOPS! This is a really fun question though because I think this has happened to most people who own a stainless steel pan. Whether the pan got too hot, you took your eyes off of it for too long, or maybe it just wasn’t your day – don’t worry, this happens! I can’t tell you how many times I (or my husband or a former roommate) have burnt a stainless steel pan. I specifically remember one time when I was learning to cook some basics and tried to sauté spinach without any water….it was a burnt mess and I never thought that I would get my pan clean again. Now I have learned to cook a little better BUT this still happens in my kitchen and all you need are the right steps to bring it back to life! Here is what I would do with stainless steel pans (note that I’m not an expert and there are probably kitchen experts who would have another way but this is a tried and true method for me):
- After you finish cooking, let the pan cool (go enjoy your meal and come back to this later)
- When the pan is cool, rinse it with water. It’s surprising how much will come off by just a rinse. This also helps get any major chunks of food off the pan
- Fill 2/3 with water and put back on stovetop. Bring to a boil or near-boil.
- While it is heating, I take a wooden spoon/spatula and stir the water slowly. Things start to loosen. I also use the wooden spatula to scrape lightly at the bottom of the pan.
- Continue scraping and then pour hot water down the sink. Rinse again.
- Use the wooden spatula to see if any remaining pieces will scrape off. (Typically by this point, the majority of the burnt items have come off my pan and the sides are what is remaining)
- Take out your Barkeepers Friend. If you don’t have this, go buy it. It is seriously a lifesaver when it comes to so many things (stainless steel pans being one). Follow instructions on the can (This can cause damage if used improperly so be sure to read the instructions).
- Wash your pan with soap and water (get the remnants of the barkeepers friend off the pan). I included a photo of one of the recent times I have had a burnt mess…and the ‘after’ photo after BKF.
- Dry your pan and realize it is salvaged and ready for the next use!
I hope this helps! And remember…this is something that happens regularly in my kitchen. I cook all the time and this is just life. Don’t let this deter you from cooking again!!
xoxo, LL
Little Libbie 
Leave a comment