Best Cookware Sets in 2021 – Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

Cookware generally comes in sets of 10 or 12 pieces and is priced as such. Buyers can choose from a variety of options that range in price from under $100 to over $1000. Not all options are, however, created equal. So finding the best cookware sets can be a process as you research all of the options.

The list below offers some guidance to help you to determine which is the most appropriate option to suit your needs and budget. The list also covers the most important factors that make some models stand out from the rest. We also discuss the pros and cons of each option to help you to make the best choice.

Let’s get started!

How to Choose the Best Cookware Sets

Any cookware aspiring to be the best must be an excellent conductor of heat. It should have an insulated or stay-cool handle so you don’t burn yourself when you lift it from the stove. It must also be safe for daily use and allow for easy food release, so the cookware is quick and easy to clean.

Cost aside, material is the most important feature when it comes to choosing cookware. The metal the cookware is made from as well as the cooking surface affect how it delivers heat, how safe it is to use, and how flavorsome food is when you plate it.

Additionally, you’ll also need to look at the cooware’s lids, handles, color, and weight to ensure that the pots and pans will fit both your needs and your kitchen decor.

1. The Four Main Types of Cookware Materials

Non-stick

Non-stick cookware is typically coated with a material called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), better-known as Teflon. Because of the coating, you use less cooking oil, while still getting your favorite French fries crispy, making it easier to switch to healthier eating habits.

For cooking foods that tend to stick to the cookware’s surface, pots, pans, and skillets with non-stick coatings comprise the most commonly-used cookware by far.

That being said, nonstick cookware has a shorter lifespan than stainless steel. Low-quality one may not last long, and often needs delicate care. Plus, nonstick coatings may not be compatible with metal utensils as the hard, sharp edges might damage the cookware’s nonstick coating.

While the use of nonstick cookware is growing, the adverse health effects of using it are not fully understood. There are many assumptions that nonstick cookware is not safe to use, since it may emit hazardous fumes while cooking. However, that is not always the case, especially if users have strictly followed the use suggestions from the manufacturers.  

Read our reviews of the best nonstick cookware set to learn about the safety of PTFE-based cookware. 

Safety note:

• Avoid overheating non-stick cookware.  Teflon coating will start to break down at above 572°F, giving off poisonous fumes. 
• Teflon cookware shouldn’t be used in an ultra-hot oven, like a wood-fired pizza oven.
• To prevent ceramic cookware from scratching or peeling, follow the manufacturer’s directions for heat, cleaning, and the types of utensils to use.  
• While non-stick cookware may be dishwasher safe, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, the coating will last longer if the cookware is washed by hand.

Stainless Steel

If it’s safe cookware you want, stainless steel is the best option. This material is more environmentally friendly than Teflon, since it’s able to cook at high heat without releasing toxic fumes. It’s also the most durable man-made material, which is way more robust than ceramic and will never rust or tarnish. 

Because stainless steel cookware can be used with high heat, it is much more versatile than nonstick cookware, allowing you to enjoy different styles of cooking in convenient ways. Besides working well at any temperature, metal utensils won’t scratch it. 

While stainless steel doesn’t corrode, low-quality cookware may discolor under certain conditions. Keep in mind that stainless steel cookware isn’t non-stick. Food can stick to the surface, but if the cook remembers to use cold oil in a hot pan, food should release easily. However, things can go wrong, and if food burns, some scrubbing may be required to remove burnt-on food. 

Because stainless steel isn’t a good heat conductor, stainless steel cookware often features multiple layers of stainless steel sandwiching a copper or aluminum core to ensure more even cooking. For more information about the composition of stainless steel cookware, check our reviews of the best stainless steel cookware sets.

Safety note: Stainless steel cookware is generally dishwasher safe, but check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.

Copper

While copper has a moderate corrosion rate, high thermal conductivity, and elegant look, it can lead to toxicity if accidentally ingested (according to the MedLinePlus). So, besides a few specific types of cookware, such as jam pots, there is almost no copper cookware with a pure copper coating on the interior. 

To prevent leaching into the food, copper cookware is usually coated with stainless steel. Capable of conducting heat twice as fast as aluminum, cookware with a copper core is an ideal choice for sautéing beef, boiling water, making tomato sauce, melting butter, and more.  

There is also copper cookware with tin lining. But we recommend you avoid buying this type of cookware since tin is a soft metal that is susceptible to scratches and can quickly wear out with use. If you like the elegant look of copper, you can buy cookware with a non-stick, copper-colored interior or a decorative copper exterior. Just keep in mind this type of cookware will not offer any of the advantages of copper metal.

Safety note: Some copper cookware is dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to prevent its coating from scratching.

Cast Iron

Corrosion resistance, high heat retention, and the ability to work at very high temperature make cast iron an ideal material for cookware. When properly seasoned, cast-iron cookware also allows food to brown without burning at the bottom or sticking to the cooking surface. As a result, food is easily released, and washing by hand is less stressful. 

Being one of the most commonly used in North America, cast-iron cookware is also famous for its exceptional durability. While many types of cookware may become discolored and need to be replaced after a period of time, the best Dutch oven made from high-quality cast iron could literally last you a lifetime if properly cared for. 

In general, there are two different types of cast-iron cookware: bare cast–iron and enameled cast–iron. 

Bare Cast-Iron

Bare cast-iron pans are generally one solid piece, from the surface to the handle, although some cookware may have other materials added to the handle. Since cast iron has a superior heat retention rate, you can use it for high-heat cooking options like searing and sautéing. Most grates, skillets, and pots of this material are oven-friendly. They  can give the meat a caramelized texture on the outside, while a stove or an oven will take care of the rest of the cooking process. 

Enameled Cast-Iron

Enameled cast-iron cookware has a vitreous enamel glaze applied to the surface. While it can cost twice as much as its naked counterparts, enameled cast-iron cookware is also a good choice, given that it doesn’t need seasoning or any special cleaning method to maintain the cooking surface. The enamel coating eliminates rust unless the coating is damaged or there are uncoated areas on the pots.

That being said, enameled cookware may not be able to handle super-high heat and is not as non-stick as a well-seasoned bare cast iron pan. Not only that, the enamel coating is prone to flaking off if the cookware is accidentally dropped or heated over high temperatures for a long period of time.

Safety note: The abrasive nature of dishwasher detergents can remove or damage the seasoning on your bare cast-iron pan, so you should only wash it by hand following the cleaning techniques supplied by the manufacturer.

2. Weight

Ideally, your cookware should be light enough to be easy to handle. Shaking or flipping a heavy skillet for long periods of time can cause serious wrist pain. We recommend pots and pans weighing between 2 to 3.5 pounds. These should give a balance between performance, ease, and comfort of handle, while putting less strain on your wrist even when you cook for an extended period. However, for pans that don’t need to move around during cooking, like a Dutch oven, heavier weight is desirable.

3. Lids

There are two types of cookware’s lids: glass and metal.

Glass Lids

Gone are the days when glass lids would break easily if accidentally dropped. Most of today’s glass lids are made from tempered glass, which is about four times stronger than conventional glass. Being much more durable, they’re less likely to crack if there are sudden changes in temperature.

We recommend you find tempered glass lids that are surrounded with a metal border as this helps to prevent the risk of shattering. Shattered glass lids can potentially cause damage. They’re more dangerous than slightly deformed metal lids. You should also find glass lids that are equipped with steam vents to let pressure escape.

Metal Lids

Metal lids are durable and easy to clean. They are made to withstand temperature changes. Unlike glass lids, metal lids are not transparent. There is no way you can see how your dish is cooking unless you lift up the lid and let a significant amount of essential heat escape.

Metal lids are not a good insulator, but they still do a good job trapping heat and steam. Most stainless lids don’t have steam vents and are typically lighter than glass lids. So if there is a pressure buildup, they will wiggle and allow steam to escape around the rim of the pot. With an over-full pot, this can lead to messy boilovers.

4. Handle

The cookware’s handle can be made of silicone or stainless steel, or other materials. Whatever you choose, the handle should be permanently secured with rivets to keep the handle safely attached to the pot.

It also should be ergonomically designed to prevent slippage, provide a comfortable grip, and fit well in your hand. Any pan having an ergonomic handle will allow you to easily move it from the stovetop to the oven with confidence.

We like handles that can stay cool to the touch so that you don’t need to use a potholder when handling hot pans. Because not all handles have this possibility, it’s best to check the product’s description for sure.

Cookware that has a handle with a hanging hole or loop has been growing in popularity, and for good reasons. These offer the ability to hang the cookware on a wall or  rack, saving space in storage, giving easier access, and can be a beautiful display. Stock pots with two handles on the sides promote even easier lifting and pouring— a great feature for those who like to make stock or broth.

Reviews of the Best Cookware Sets in 2021

So what is the best cookware set for your budget — nonstick  coated, stainless steel, or cast iron? We have them all.

1. Cuisinart MCP-12N – Best to Buy 2021 
2. Tramontina 80116/249DS – Best Stainless Steel Cookware Set 
3. T-fal E765SH – Best Nonstick Cookware Set 
4. GreenPan Lima – Best Ceramic Cookware Set 
5. Cuisinel – Best Cast Iron Cookware Set
6. Odoland – Best Camping Cookware Set
7. GreenLife CW0004970 – Best Non-toxic Cookware Set
8. Gotham Steel – Best Copper Cookware Set 
9. Rachael Ray 87630 – Best Cookware for Gas Stoves 
10. Calphalon Premier – Best Induction Cookware Set 
11. Anolon 84066 – Best Cookware for Electric Glass Top Stove
12. AmazonBasics – Best Cookware for Glass Top Stove

1. Cuisinart MCP-12N – Best to Buy in 2021

This cookware set has 12 pieces, including a 3.5-quart sauté pan, an 8-quart covered stockpot with lid, a steamer insert with lid, two covered saucepans with lids (1.5-quart and 3-quart), and two open skillets (8-inch and 10-inch). All are dishwasher-safe, induction compatible, and oven-safe up to 550°F (260°C). You can use these pots and pans under the broiler, too.

Advantages 

The Cuisinart cookware set is an ideal choice for your searing, browning, sautéing and simmering needs. It features three layers of 18/10 stainless steel and aluminum, bonded nicely together.

The aluminum core retains and distributes heat evenly from the bottoms to the side walls of the cookware. The mirror-polished stainless steel cooking surface is highly resistant to corrosion, non-reactive with food, and may never discolor when properly cared for.

If you’ve ever seared salmon fillets in a low-quality stainless steel pan, you might already know that the fish cooks but parts of it can get easily burned and stuck to the pan. However, the Cuisinart MCP-12N cookware set’s quality and ensures that your pan-seared salmon fillets will be perfectly cooked every single time.

Each pan has an ergonomic handle that is very comfortable to grasp  and secured with stainless steel rivets to endure heavy-duty tasks. The handles stay cool to the touch but only in some circumstances. When cooked at above 350°F,  they can become very hot, so make sure you always have a pot holder available for use.

Other features that come with this set are tight-fitting stainless steel lids that help to retain vitamins and nutrients, and all-round pouring lips for drip-free pouring (always useful!)

The Cuisinart MCP-12N cookware set comes with a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects. You can use these pots and pans under the broiler, too.

Disadvantages 

While these tri-ply pots and pans have no coatings to flake off or plastic parts to melt, they aren’t non-stick. So there is the possibility that food will burn and stick to the surface, especially when cooking delicate foods like eggs and fish. But if you remember to use cold oil or butter in a hot pan, food should be released easily with little effort on your part.

Because cookware with an aluminum core can heat up very quickly, even on medium settings, make sure you don’t overheat your pans while preheating. Overheating or allowing the cookware to boil dry can cause damage to the stainless steel cooking surface, causing it to become stained and discolored.

Stain and discoloration won’t affect the performance of your pans and can be removed with a wide range of cleaners, including vinegar and baking soda solution.

Verdict 

Cuisinart MCP-12N is a sturdy and reliable cookware set. Safe for food preparation, it will take care of everything, from beef stews to steamed veggies. Though the set is expensive, it offers great value for money with all the decent features you’d expect.

2. Tramontina 80116/249DS – Best Stainless Steel Cookware Set

The Tramontina set has 12 pieces: a 5-quart deep sauté pan with a lid, two frying pans (8-inch and 10-inch), three saucepans with lids (1.5-quart, 2-quart, and 3-quart), and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid. All pieces are induction compatible, dishwasher safe, and oven safe up to 500°F.

Advantages 

If you are looking for a reliable stainless steel cookware set that will be with you for the long haul, the Tramontina should be close to the top of your wish list. Even though this isn’t one of the least expensive sets on the market, it’s worth every penny for a durable product from a well-known brand.

Like our top pick, the Tramontina cookware features two layers of stainless steel sandwiching an aluminum core extending up the sides of the cookware. With premium tri-ply clad construction, which promotes a fast cook time, long lifespan, and even heat distribution, this cookware is perfect for both home and commercial use.

With the Tramontina saucepans and stockpot, you don’t need to stir your tomato-based pasta sauce frequently to avoid burning on the bottom. They’re built well enough to prevent scorching while simmering liquids.

In terms of performance, the Tramontina cookware performs well on almost every task. We found the two skillets retain heat pretty well over medium-high heat, ensuring your pan-seared chicken breasts will be perfectly cooked with a crunchy crust.

Apart from providing unbeatable heat distribution, the Tramontina set would certainly be a great addition to your kitchen with its charming mirror-polished exterior and elegant satin-finish cooking surface. Each pot features a riveted stainless steel handle to ensure a secure grip, making it safer for you to remove the cookware from the oven using a pot holder.

Disadvantages 

The Tramontina  cookware could become discolored if used to sear meat over high heat. Though the discoloration in no way impairs the skillet’s performance, it darkens the look of your cookware, making it less beautiful.

Verdict 

NSF-certified, the Tramontina pots and pans are formulated to keep up in even the most demanding kitchens ,with quality stainless steel on the surfaces and pure aluminum forming the core. If you want to buy the best heavy-duty cookware set and money is no object, this set is absolutely the way to go.

3. T-fal E765SH – Best Nonstick Cookware Set

Included in this cookware set are 17 pieces: a 10.25” fry pan, 3.5 qt deep sauté pan, 10.25” square griddle, 11.5” fry pan with lid, 8” fry pan, three saucepans with lids (1, 2, and 3 qt), 3 qt steamer insert with 2 side handles, 5 qt Dutch oven with lid, and an Egg Wonder fry pan. All come with the lifetime limited warranty and are oven safe up to 400°F.

There are T-fal sets available with fewer pieces that are less expensive, but we really liked that this set came with three different sized saucepans (usually sets only have two). We also like the inclusion of a Dutch oven; no matter the task, this set has you covered.

Advantages 

The pots and pans in the T-fal E765SH nonstick cookware set distribute heat evenly, have a toxin free non-stick interior, and are nicely balanced to ensure a comfortable grip.

The T-fal E765SH is a high-quality hard anodized aluminum cookware set, which is particularly durable and easy to clean. Any nonstick  pan that is hard anodized will be twice as hard as its stainless steel counterparts.

The hard anodizing process creates an oxidized layer over the aluminum. This ensures food slides smoothly along the surface, does a better job in preventing scratches, and might last three times as long as its regular nonstick counterparts. And because the nonstick interior doesn’t react with acidic food, it allows the food to retain nutrients and natural flavors.

Our most favorite feature of this set is the Thermo-Spot— the unique heat indicator that turns to a solid red “spot” when the pan is completely preheated to optimal temperature. This built-in Thermo-Spot is permanent so it shouldn’t chip off or become less effective over time.

This set comes with tight-fitting glass lids that are designed to lock in heat and moisture, thus speeding up the cooking process. Each tempered glass lid features a steam vent, which allows a pan to “breathe” so that the liquids are less likely to boil over.

The riveted silicone handles are ergonomically designed to provide comfortable grasp. We like that they come with a hanging hole for space-saving organization. While the handles are supposed to stay cool to the touch, we don’t think it’s always possible to hold a hot pan’s handle without a potholder.

Disadvantages 

The T-fal E765SH cookware set is not induction compatible. While it is highly resistant to peeling, scratching, and corrosion, the use of wooden or plastic kitchen utensils is recommended since the sharp edges of metal utensils can scratch the nonstick coating.

Verdict

With a nice selection of cooking pieces that are all durable and efficient, the T-fal E765SH cookware set is a perfect choice for both home cooks and professional chefs. Elegant yet minimalist, not only will it be beautiful on display, but it is also durable enough to go with you for years to come.

4. GreenPan Lima – Best Ceramic Cookware Set

The GreenPan Lima cookware set has 12 pieces, including a 2-quart saucepan with lid, a 5-quart casserole with lid, two frypans (8-inch and 9.5-inch), a 2.75-quart skillet with lid, a stainless steel steamer, a solid bamboo turner, a slotted bamboo turner, and a bamboo fork.

Advantages 

The pots and pans in the GreenPan Lima cookware set are ideal choices for moderate-heat cooking tasks. You can use them on most stovetops (except for induction), in the oven (up to 600°F), or under the broiler.

Crafted from hard anodized aluminum, they can retain and distribute heat from the bottoms to the side walls very efficiently. Apart from being highly durable and scratch-resistant, the tough hard anodized aluminum construction works nicely with the PFOA-free nonstick coating to provide exceptional tasting food without having to add too much oil or butter. And because food doesn’t stick, it allows for easy food release and makes cleaning up a breeze.

This ceramic set includes tight-fitting glass lids that allow you to keep an eye on the cooking process without interrupting cooking. The tempered glass lids fit tightly onto the pans to trap in heat and moisture, thus promoting the fastest possible cooking time.

Disadvantages 

Some buyers find these lids to be unsatisfactory because they don’t have a steam vent. So unless you leave the lids askew, there is no way the steam can escape, which can lead to boiling over or lid rattling issues.

But even though it’s nice when you don’t need to pay extra for optional utensils, we don’t think all these included wooden utensils are useful, due to the fact that the rough edges of them can easily scratch the ceramic interior. For the best long-term performance, we recommend using silicone utensils when cooking with the GreenPan Lima pans.

Verdict 

Whether you fancy French toast, pancakes or a cheeseburger, the GreenPan Lima cookware set will get the job done without costing you a fortune. Available at an affordable price, this collection comes with enough cooking pieces to meet your every culinary need. It even includes some utensils, which you won’t find in every set.

5. Cuisinel – Best Cast-Iron Cookware Set

Included in this set are two frying pans (10-inch and 12-inch), a 5-quart Dutch oven with a lid, a pan rack organizer, a pan scraper, and two handle holders. All are made from high-quality material for extra durability and reliable performance.

Advantages 

The Cuisinel is an affordable yet durable cookware set. With the ability to withstand very high cooking temperatures, it’s a perfect choice for searing and sauteing. If seasoned properly, it’s also suitable for preparing fried foods such as chicken, catfish, French fries, and churros as well sticky foods like eggs. Its specially designed frying surface ensures your pan-fry fish will release easily with golden brown skin and juicy, tender meat.

Compared to similar sized pans of other material, Cuisinel pans are much thicker. This means they can retain heat better than most cookware, making them best suited for braised dishes or long-cooking stews.

Not only that, the Cuisinel cookware can work well on all cooking surfaces, including on the stovetop, in the oven (up to 450°F), under the broiler, on the backyard grill, or even on an open campfire.

Disadvantages 

Cast iron cookware doesn’t conduct heat as well as copper or aluminum, it can take more time to heat up and more time to cool down. It’s best to heat it slowly, rather than cranking up the heat immediately.

Verdict 

The Cuisinel is great for anyone looking for a basic collection of cookware that can handle every high-heat cooking task. If you have a small family, the set with three cooking pieces should easily meet your demands. But if you have a larger household or host parties often, you may want to buy two sets.

6. Odoland – Best Camping Cookware Set

The 9-piece camping cookware kit includes a mini stove, a 16-oz stainless steel cup with silicone-insulated protector, two aluminum non-stick pots with foldable handles (1.2L and 0.6L), two carry bags, and three utensils.

Advantages 

The biggest selling point of the Odoland cookware is its small, foldable, and portable size. Specially designed for outdoor activities, all the items in this set can be carried in a backpack. No matter if you go camping or trekking with friends, the Odoland cookware promises to make your trips more fun.

Made of hard-anodized aluminum, the Odoland pots have a balanced weight for comfortable carry. They are coated with a toxic-free non-stick coating for quick heating and cleaning. Featuring visible liquid measuring lines on the inside, they make it easier for users to add the correct amount of ingredients.

The included silverware (fork, knife, and spoon) is stainless steel and can be folded like the stove and pot handles. The anti-slip silicone cup protector is heat resistant to keep your hands safe from hot beverages. Whether you eat ramen, rice, or frozen meals, this camping cookware kit can serve all your needs.

Disadvantages 

The only thing we don’t like about these pots is that they don’t have lids. This makes them less ideal for boiling water or steaming veggies. Be aware the Odoland pots may become discolored over time, so don’t expect them to look like new for long.

Verdict

Compact and portable, all the pieces in this camping cookware set are must-bring essentials, providing you with a great way to enjoy delicious food outside with family and friends. Whether the trip is camping, hiking, or backpacking, the Odoland cookware kit ensures your holiday will go as well as planned.

7. GreenLife CW0004970 – Best Non-toxic Cookware Set 

The 14-piece set from GreenLife includes two open fry pans (7-inch and 9.5-inch), two covered saucepans (1-quart and 2-quart), a 5-quart covered stockpot, a 2.5-quart covered sauté pan, and four kitchen utensils. Whether you’re planning to cook for two or to feed a crowd, this set ensures you’ll always have the right size on hand.

Advantages 

The GreenLife cookware is made from aluminum for efficient heat distribution. As a bonus, the aluminum body is reinforced with wobble-free bases for extra strength and better performance.

With a proprietary cerami-tech outer non-stick coating, the interior is much more durable than its traditional non-stick counterparts. It also allows for easier food release without requiring too much added cooking oil, offering you a more efficient way to enjoy healthy food right at home.

Because the coating is completely free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and calcium, this set is entirely safe for household use. As long as you avoid heating your pans over high heat and using metal utensils on the cooking surface, the cookware should last for a long time. Handwashing is also recommended to prevent the non-stick properties from degrading.

The GreenLife glass lids don’t have a steam vent, but they are shatterproof, so sudden temperature change will not cause the lid to break or crack. The thick, durable forged bases are anti-warp and can be used on all cooktops, with the exception of induction.

You can use the pans in the oven thanks to their ability to withstand heat up to 350°F. We also love that the handles are ergonomically designed for a comfortable grasp. While they’re advertised to stay cool to the touch with the heat-resistant silicone outer layer,  you should use a dry towel or potholder when removing the cookware from the oven.

Along with its wide range of sizes, the GreenLife CW0004970 also provides shoppers with a variety of exterior color options. You are sure to find the perfect color for your kitchen decor.

Disadvantages 

The four included utensils are so poorly designed that they could melt if left in a pot for too long. That’s why we recommend you buy an optional high-quality kitchen utensil set, such as the Miusco set for safer and more convenient cooking.

Verdict 

Safer and more durable than traditional nonstick cookware, the GreenLife CW0004970 is a great investment for everyone from college students to experienced cooks. Though the cookware is not induction compatible, it works well on most stovetops, letting you cook with entire confidence.

8. Gotham Steel – Best Copper Cookware Set 

The Gotham Steel Hammered Collection cookware set comes equipped with all of your kitchen essentials, including a 9.75-inch skillet with lid, a 4.9-quart stockpot with lid, a 8.15-inch frying pan, two saucepans with lids (1.35-quart and 2.65-quart), and a stainless steel steamer insert.

Advantages 

Rated as one of the best copper cookware sets on the market, the Gotham Steel pans come with all conveniences: lightweight design, dishwasher safe, premium stay-cool handles, PFOA-free non-stick coating, and more. If you’ve been toying with the idea of buying a cookware set that will add a touch of warmth and elegance to your kitchen, this set is definitely worth a look.

Standing out from the rest with its gorgeous copper-colored exterior and deluxe ceramic cooking surface, the Gotham Steel cookware fits well with any kitchen decor, from classic looks to modern styles. Not only that, the aluminum construction is hard-anodized so your cookware lasts longer and conducts heat evenly from the bottom to the sidewalls.

We particularly like the non-stick interior of the Gotham Steel cookware, which is reinforced with proprietary titanium and ceramic for extra durability and optimal food release. Apart from being ultra-durable, this triple-coated cooking surface is also scratch-proof, metal utensil safe, and entirely free of PTFE, PFOA, and PFOS.

The Gotham Steel Hammered Collection cookware set is induction compatible and can withstand oven heat up to 550°F.

Disadvantages 

When used in the oven, the cool-touch stainless steel handle can become extremely hot, so the use of pot holders is necessary. But who cares? Anything you put in the oven is going to get hot.

Verdict 

The Gotham Steel pots and pans are designed to stand the test of time, giving you years of excellent service without requiring delicate maintaining. The only drawback is that their handles do not stay cool to the touch when in use, despite being advertised as such. 

9. Rachael Ray 87630 – Best Cookware for Gas Stoves

Rachael Ray 87630 is a 12-piece cookware set. It includes two saucepans with lids (1-quart and 2-quart), a 6-quart stockpot with lid, two frying pans (8.5-inch and 10-inch), a 3-quart sauté pan and utensils (slotted nylon turner and spoon). All are oven safe to 400°F (205°C) and are dishwasher safe.

Advantages 

Each piece is crafted of hard anodized aluminum, which is twice as hard as stainless steel— a main reason why this cookware set is perfect for a gas stove. As mentioned above, anodized aluminum is non-stick, PFOA-free, and corrosion-free.

Having a helpful grippy handle which is double riveted and nicely rubberized makes these pots, pans, and skillets easier to transfer from stovetop to oven. The handle also stays cool enough during cooking so that you can hold it while stirring the contents inside the pan.

This cookware also features glass lids that allow you to monitor your cooking progress without lifting the lid and letting the heat out. The lids are shatterproof, so they’re less likely to break if you happen to drop them.

Rachael Ray offers a lifetime limited warranty on this cookware set but only to the original purchaser.

Disadvantages 

Although aluminum conducts heat more evenly and won’t rust like cast iron, the nonstick coating on these pans can scratch. Therefore, you should only use non-metallic utensils, such as silicone, wood, and polyethylene, to protect the cookware’s nonstick coating.

Verdict 

Having an ability to work on nearly all stovetops, including gas and glass, makes the Rachael Ray pans extremely versatile. Of course, as nonstick cookware, they cannot withstand extremely high temperatures. But there would be hardly any problem when you use it to cook, fry or even bake at under 400°F.

10. Calphalon Premier – Best Cookware for Induction Cooktop

Long known for producing premium cookware products, Calphalon has recently taken its offerings to the next level with its new collection— the Premier Stainless Steel Cookware Set.

This space-saving package comes with just the right items to enhance your cooking experience: three fry pans (8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch), two saucepans with lids (2.5-quart and 3.5-quart), a 4.5-quart soup pot with lid, two sauté pans with lids (3-quart and 5-quart), and an 8-quart stockpot with lid. They won’t scratch even if you use metal tools and can withstand oven temperatures up to 450°F.

Advantages . 

These expensive pots and pans feature triple-layer construction with an aluminum core for even heating and durability. The inner surface is made from 304 stainless steel which has excellent corrosion resistance under any cooking conditions, and the outer surface is 403 grade stainless steel. This cookware is top quality that will last a long time with the proper care and maintenance.

With the unique vessel and handle designs, these nesting induction-friendly pots and pans can stack neatly in any order saving 30% more storage space than non-stacking Calphalon sets.

Besides the perfectly heat-insulated handles, the pots also have heavy-duty flat tempered glass lids that allow you to easily monitor the cooking process without losing valuable heat and moisture.

Disadvantages 

Because the cookware isn’t non-stick, food can burn and stick to the surface, so cleaning may require more work than nonstick cookware.

Verdict 

Featuring a highly-polished stainless steel finish, the pots and pans from the Calphalon Premier cookware collection will surely add a touch of sparkle and elegance to your kitchen. And since these pieces are stackable, you may get more storage space to spare.

11. Anolon 84066 – Best Cookware for Electric Glass Top Stove

Anolon 84066 is a reliable set that includes a 1-quart saucepan with pour spouts, two saucepans with lids (2-quart and 3-quart), a 3-quart sauté pan with lid, an 8-quart stockpot with lid, and two frying pan (8-inch and 12-inch). All are metal utensil safe with a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects.

Advantages 

Featuring an elegant tulip profile with distinctive bronze exterior and chocolate interior, this cookware coordinates well with any style of kitchen decor while giving you loads of flexibility in the kitchen. In particular, the non-stick PFOA-free coating will prevent food from sticking, making the cleaning process much faster and easier.

We also appreciate the heavy-duty hard anodized aluminum construction. Not only does it provide superior durability and efficient heat transfer, but it also enables the cookware to tolerate temperatures of up to 450°F in an oven.

Aside from the shatter-resistant glass lids that help keep heat and moisture from escaping during cooking, the double riveted handles are another nice feature. They ensure a secure grip for transferring cookware into the oven, and they always stay cool to the touch on a stove for a solid grasp and confident handling.

Disadvantages 

You should not use the dishwasher with these pots and pans, but only hand-wash them to avoid discoloring.

Verdict 

The Anolon 84066 cookware set is a great choice for those who often cook for a hungry crowd. In terms of functionality, it serves well a full range of inspired cooking, though there is a chance that the nonstick coating may degrade after only 2 years of regular use.

12. AmazonBasics – Best Cookware for Glass Top Stove

Included in the AmazonBasics set are: two fry pans (8-inch and 10-inch), two covered saucepans (1.5-quart and 2-quart), two covered casserole pans (3-quart and 5-quart), and five kitchen utensils (pasta server, soup ladle, slotted turner, serving spoon, and slotted serving spoon).

Advantages 

AmazonBasics is the most inexpensive cookware set on our list. Though it isn’t perfect, it gets the job done and is even better than you would expect at the price. If you want to jumpstart healthy cook-at-home habits, but are on a tight budget, this set is definitely a no-brainer.

The AmazonBasics cookware works well on all cooking surfaces, with the exception of induction. Despite an inexpensive price, the AmazonBasics pans do have all the advanced features to enhance your cooking experience: an aluminum body for corrosion protection, non-stick coating for low-fat cooking options, and stay-cool handles for a firm, comfortable hold.

There are several user complaints saying their pans fill their houses with a terrible plastic smell and light smoke. After investigating these odor complaints, we found the smell of burning plastic could be a sign of overheated cookware or improper cleaning techniques (especially before the first use).

So, unless the odor is from something actually burning, the offensive smell given off by a new pan is completely normal. You can easily get rid of it by running some burn-in cycles, thoroughly washing, or avoiding heating your cookware over high heat.

Disadvantages 

The AmazonBasics pans are not ideal for deep frying. They also don’t have a nice balance; if you cook something light such as an egg, your pan seems not to sit flat on the burner, which causes the food to cook unevenly.

Verdict 

For those looking for a set that includes all sorts of kitchen utensils, the AmazonBasics collection has everything you need to cook up other gourmet meals. Of course, the cookware is not without drawbacks, but available at a low price point, it’s expected.

Comparison Chart of Top-Rated Cookware Sets

Model	Oven Safe	Induction Safe	Dishwasher safe	Coating
Cuisinart MCP-12N	500°F	✓	✓	Stainless Steel
Tramontina 80116/249DS	500°F	✓	✓	Stainless Steel
T-fal E765SH	400°F	✗	✓	Titanium Non-stick
GreenPan Lima	600°F	✗	✗	Ceramic Non-stick
Cuisinel	450°F	✓	✓	Cast-iron
Odoland	-	✗	✗	Non-stick
GreenLife	350°F	✗	✓	Ceramic Non-stick
Gotham Steel	500°F	✓	✓	Ceramic Copper Titanium Non-stick
Rachael Ray 87630	400°F	✗	✓	Anodized Aluminum Non-stick
Calphalon Premier	450°F	✓	✗	Stainless Steel
Anolon 84066	400°F	✗	✗	Anodized Aluminum Non-stick

Best Cookware Set Brands

Our list of top cookware brands includes T-fal, Rachael Ray, Calphalon, and Cuisinart. Read on for more detailed information so that you can make an informed choice of cookware for your kitchen.

1. T-fal

T-fal is one of the global leaders in the production of high-quality non-stick cookware. Established in 1959, the company’s mission was to give users the opportunity to enjoy tasty, diversified, and healthy cooking. Today T-fal is sold and distributed in over 120 countries across the globe.

There are 4 main versions of T-fal cookware sets. They include Non-stick Titanium, Ceramic, Stainless Steel, and Hard Anodized. All come with a limited lifetime warranty on material, construction, and workmanship under normal use. (T-fal’s warranty does not apply where the cookware is in professional or commercial use.) The T-fal cookware comes in a wide range of eye-catching colors, which promises to inspire new, stylish cooking experiences. 

The prices of T-fal cookware sets range from $50 to $200.

2. Cuisinart

Cuisinart is well-known for its food processors. Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, the company is present in over 100 countries worldwide and has an estimated annual revenue of $35M. Besides food processors, Cuisinart also produces a wide range of other kitchenware, including  pots and pans.

Cuisinart  cookware  was  launched in 1992. They had all the essentials, including a full range of saucepans, sauté pans, frying pans, skillets, and more. At that time, it was an instant hit.

At present, the company has two main versions of cookware, the non-stick and the stainless steel versions. The non-stick models ensure the easy release of food so cleaning up is easy. These pots and pans are good for everyday cooking.

Models with a stainless steel finish offer a stylish addition to any kitchen. They are good for home use, and will last a lifetime. The prices of Cuisinart cookware sets range from $80 to $300.

3. Rachael Ray

The Rachael Ray brand includes household furniture, cookware, bakeware, teapots, cutlery, kitchen tools and gadgets. You can shop for Rachael’s products on retail websites like Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and JCPenney.

Most of Rachael’s products are manufactured by Meyer affiliated companies in the USA, Thailand, Italy, and China. Others are made by unaffiliated organizations in Asia. All are manufactured according to strict manufacturing controls to ensure the highest quality possible.

Rachael Ray’s cookware sets, including the non-stick and stainless steel versions, cost from $80 to $150.

4. Calphalon

Calphalon cookware sets come in three categories—ceramic, non-stick and stainless steel. They are organized into nine collections.

With the exception of some of Calphalon’s original cookware lines, such as the “Pots & Pans” line, the company’s products usually come with a lifetime warranty. The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal household use and excludes any damage from misuse and abuse or use in a commercial establishment.

Calphalon cookware sets are priced from $100 to $700.

Conclusion

Cookware has become an essential part of our lives. Not only does it revolutionize the way we cook, but it makes cleaning quick and easy when cooking is done. No matter what your budget is, you will certain find the best cookware set, without breaking the bank.