Aldi Is Selling a Dupe of the Internet-Famous Always Pan — And It’s Only $25

Abigail Abesamis Demarest
Abigail Abesamis Demarest
Abigail Abesamis Demarest is a freelance contributor for Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn. When she’s not writing she’s reading up on the latest wellness trends, teaching Zumba classes, or reading a book on the beach.
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published Jan 19, 2022
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Aldi's crofton awesome pan
Credit: ALDI

I’m not afraid to admit that I love my Always Pan. I use it to make eggs, ramen, steamed vegetables — you name it. It’s a versatile pan that’s easy to clean (thanks to its non-toxic, nonstick ceramic coating) and looks great on my stovetop. Priced at $145, it certainly isn’t an inexpensive option, but if you’re looking to pick up something similar for less, you’re in luck: Aldi has just released a similar pan at a fraction of the price.

The Crofton Awesome Pan ($24.99) hits Aldi shelves January 19 (that’s today!) and is part of this week’s Aldi Finds — new products that are sold at the discount supermarket chain for a limited time. Other items in this week’s Aldi Finds include a heated blanket ($59.99), a cheese board and knife set ($18.99), and an aroma diffuser ($19.99).

As for the Crofton Awesome Pan, it comes in three colors: matte black, beige, and dusty blue. For context, the Always Pan is available in seven different colors, with plates, bowls, and even knives in matching hues. Both pans are made with aluminum and boast a non-toxic, nonstick coating that’s PFOA- and PTFE-free. The OG Always Pan has a 10-inch diameter while the Crofton Awesome Pan has a slightly larger 10.25-inch diameter. 

In addition to cost, there are a few key differences between the two pans. For one, the Always Pan comes with a nesting steamer basket and a beechwood spatula with a built-in spoon rest (so there’s no need to dirty a plate to rest your spatula while your food simmers away). The Always Pan also has two pour spouts on the sides which make it easy to drain pasta or steamed vegetables after they’re finished cooking. Lastly, the secondary handle on the Crofton Awesome Pan is smaller than the loop handle on the Always Pan. Though I haven’t personally tested the Crofton Awesome Pan, I imagine that the larger handle of the Always Pan allows for more control when moving the pan or draining water. 

While I can’t speak to the longevity and performance of the newly released Crofton Awesome Pan as it compares to the Always Pan, it’s great to see a less expensive alternative for people looking to add a versatile pan to their kitchen arsenal.  

Will you be picking up Aldi’s new Crofton Awesome Pan this week? Let us know in the comments!

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