For a 14-inch non-stick pan that is durable and suitable for a household with teens learning to cook, I recommend looking for one with the following features:
Heavy-Duty Construction: Look for a pan with a heavy-gauge aluminum or hard-anodized aluminum construction. These materials provide excellent heat distribution and durability, making the pan more resistant to warping and damage.
Reinforced Non-Stick Coating: Opt for a pan with a reinforced non-stick coating, which tends to be more durable and long-lasting than standard coatings. Some pans may have multiple layers of non-stick coating or additional scratch-resistant materials.
Heat-Resistant Handles: Choose a pan with heat-resistant handles made from materials that stay cool during cooking. This feature is important to prevent accidental burns while handling the pan.
Dishwasher-Safe: Make sure the pan is labeled as dishwasher-safe so that it can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher after use.
Oven-Safe: While not a strict necessity, having an oven-safe pan allows for more versatility in cooking, as it enables you to start cooking on the stovetop and finish in the oven.
Based on these criteria, one highly regarded brand known for its durable and reliable non-stick pans is "All-Clad." They offer a 14-inch hard-anodized aluminum non-stick frying pan with a PFOA-free non-stick coating. All-Clad pans are built to withstand heavy use, and their reinforced non-stick coatings are designed to be durable. However, keep in mind that even the most durable non-stick pans can be damaged if mistreated, so it's still essential to use proper cooking utensils and avoid using high heat when cooking.
Remember that even the best non-stick pans can wear out over time, especially with frequent use and exposure to high heat. Encourage your teens to treat the pan with care, use appropriate utensils, and avoid using extremely high heat settings. With proper care, a high-quality non-stick pan should provide many years of reliable cooking performance.