Finding the best stainless steel cookware can be difficult. Sometimes you may think you’ve come across a safe, convenient, and sturdy set of pots only to find out that they don’t have the best quality non-stick surface or that they contain toxins. For many, these are deal breakers.
But of course, there are always those folks who don’t mind where their cookware comes from or what materials their cookware is composed of. Stainless steel steel pans are one of the safest types of cookware as long as they aren't damaged and are properly maintained. You'll want a quality set of pans not just for food safety purposes but you don't them to easily scratch or rust.
If you’re all about quality, you’ll find our list of stainless steel cookware relevant for you. I’ve listed only the top stainless steel cookware to date with varying price ranges and different-pieced sets, something for everybody.
Table of Contents
1. Cuisinart Multi-Clad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
Cuisinart kitchen cookware is generally high quality in nature but at a price point that won’t bankrupt you in the process. If you’re looking for an affordable stainless steel saucepan set that’s premium in quality, then this could be for you.
The multiclad cookware features a triple-ply construction, with an inner core of aluminum sandwiched between a stainless inner and outer layer. This results in excellent heat conductivity, unparalleled heat retention and even heat distribution, making for an even cooking surface.
This set is oven-safe up to 550F, dishwasher-safe, and compatible with induction cook tops too. The 12-piece set includes a 1.5-qt saucepan and lid, a 6-qt saucepan and lid, an 8” skillet, a 10” skillet, a 3.5-qt saute pan with a lid, and an 8-qt stockpot with lid. The kit also comes with a steamer insert and lid for the saucepan, which is great for steaming vegetables.
Our favorite feature of this set has to be the tight-fitting rims for the covers, they’re excellent!
Top Features:
- Triple-Ply aluminum and stainless steel construction
- Steamer insert for steaming dishes
- Tight fitting, drip-free pouring rims
- Dishwasher and oven safe
- Induction cooktop compatible
2. Made In The Sous Chef 11-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Kit
If you are looking to up your cooking game with a quality, long-lasting, and versatile cookware kit, ‘Made In’ 11 pc stainless steel cookware set is an excellent value for money.
This is a premium fully-clad set that is made from 5 layers of stainless steel clads mashed together with a thick aluminum core. The combination of the two provides increased insulation and even heating without any hot spots, which is particularly useful if you are cooking on low heat.
The stainless steel is 18/10, one of the most popular types of stainless steel. It is also durable, easy to maintain and versatile since you can use it with all types of cooking methods such as frying, sautéing, boiling, stewing and more.
But there’s more to it. The outside layer of the stainless steel is magnetic (part of the 403 series) and therefore suitable for induction cooking.
Curious to know what this set includes? Let’s see: a 10-inch stainless-ply frying pan, 12-inch stainless-ply frying pan, 10-inch non-stick frying pan, 2 QT and 4 QT saucepans with lids, 3.5 QT saute pan with a lid and 8 QT stock pot with a lid.
We like that the handles of this set are comfortable, solid and heat-resistant. Besides, the pans have nice sloped edges that release food very well and they are easy to maintain. The heat is conducted quickly and the base is quite thick, which prevents scorching. The weight is also a lot lighter than All-Clad cookware pans of the same size.
TOP FEATURES:
- Winner of Consumer Reports Best Cookware Set of 2020
- CNet's Best Direct to Consumer Cookware of 2020
- Pourable rims across all pots
- 5-ply stainless steel and aluminum construction
- Stay-cool handle design
3. Calphalon Signature Stainless Steel 10-pc. Cookware Set
If you’re looking for the best pots and pans brand, then Calphalon is arguably one of the best. Unfortunately, their best products command high prices, but you get exactly what you pay for. The Calphalon Signature cooking pan set is one of the best around.
Constructed from five layers of metal that allow for easy heating and superb temperature control, three inner layers of aluminum and stainless out layers, the Signature series, is tough, durable, and easy to clean. It’s both dishwasher safe and induction capable, can be used with any type of utensils, and each set comes with a life time warranty. But what’s included?
The set includes 6 frying pans and saucepans and 4 lids. The pans include an 8” omelette pan, a 10” omelette pan, a 2-qt saucepan and lid, a 3-qt saucepan with lid, a 3-qt saute pan with lid, and a large 8-qt stock pot with cover. Highly acclaimed when it comes to stainless steel cookware reviews, we just wish this set was a little cheaper.
Top Features:
- Oven, broiler, and dishwasher safe
- 5 layered metal construction
- Triple layer aluminum core
- Tempered glass covers
- Full lifetime warranty
4. KitchenAid Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
The KitchenAid Tri-Ply 10-Piece Set offers a stainless steel pots and pans set that is best for those with limited cookware as it includes six pots and pans total, along with multiple lids. The construction of this set is sturdy and heavy, and if heated properly when cooking, food should not stick to the surface. The domed, tempered-glass lids are not only aesthetic but help lock in moisture to give your food the most flavorful, quality cooking. Best of all, this cookware set is safe for all cooktops.
Overall, with an average of a 4.2-star review, one gets great value for their buck. However, there are some notable cons reviewers have mentioned. For instance, despite many saying this is a non stick surface, others seem to have problems with food sticking. Some also aren’t fond of the fact that the handles on these pots can be hot to the touch. But overall, users of this product are pleased.
Top Features:
- Dishwasher safe
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Imported
- Includes 8” skillet, 10” skillet, 1.5-quart saucepan, 3-quart saucepan, 3.5-quart saucepan, and 8-quart stockpot along with 4 tempered glass lids
5. Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10-Pc Cookware Set
Next up, we have a 10 piece Stainless Steel Cookware Calphalon set. The impact-bonded aluminum bases of these utensils provide even heating and are capable of handling stoves, ovens, and broilers. With this set’s ergonomic handles, the user will not have to worry about getting burned while cooking as they stay cool to the touch. These pots also have fill lines to make cooking easier, faster, and less messy as the cook doesn’t have to dirty measuring cups.
Apart from the product itself, one of the best benefits of purchasing this cookware set is that you get a lot for your money. Not only are you getting 10 pieces, including pot lids with convenient draining holes, you also receive a full lifetime warranty just in case something goes wrong with your cookware set. Caphalon have excellent customer service, so you can trust their warranty.
But not so fast; let’s weigh in the cons. One of the biggest complaints is that this set isn’t very non stick as it claims to be. Other reviewers state that while the bottoms are thick, the walls of the pans are on the thinner side. While one will receive quality when purchasing Calphalon cookware, some do bring up the fact that the quality has diminished a bit over the years.
Top Features:
- Stove, oven, and broiler safe
- Dishwasher safe
- Fill measuring lines
- Ergonomic handles
- Straining holes on pan lids
- Includes 8” fry pan, 10” fry pan, 5-quart covered saucepan, 2.5-quart covered saucepan, 3-quart covered sauté pan, and 6-quart covered stock pot
6. Cuisinart Professional Series 13-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set with Lids
The induction cooktop-, oven- and broiler-safe Cuisinart 13-Piece Stainless Steel pan set featuring sturdy, tempered glass lids is a great, 4-star purchase you’ll enjoy. This set is sturdy yet not so heavy to the point of inconvenience for most people.
Its high impact bonded bases are said to heat up faster and provide even heating throughout, and its riveted handles are durable and easy to hold, and not to mention, stay fairly cool when in use. Additionally, the lids that come with this Cuisinart 13 piece set fit perfectly. Being glass, you can also peer into your pots without disrupting the cooking process.
Keep in mind that this is not a non stick cookware set. For non stick utensil users, there may be an adaption process when using this set. Some users of this cookware set wish that there was a steam hole, which this set lacks. But overall, it’s a favorable buy.
Top Features:
- Oven and broiler safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Induction-cooktop safe
- Tempered glass FlavorLock lids
- Riveted stainless-steel handles
7. Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
If you want one of the best stainless steel cookware sets on a budget, opt for the Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set. This set has received an average of a 4-star rating and has earned Amazon’s Choice. Featuring the most popular and commonly-used size of pans, this is a great set for newlyweds or others just getting started with purchasing cookware.
This Farberware product features a total of six pots and pans and four glass lids that you can peer into to watch your food cook. This set is also safe in the oven and broiler up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit as well as in the dishwasher. While not advertised as a non stick set, reviewers state that these pots and pans are great at ensuring food doesn’t stick to the interior and get burned. As well as this, this stainless cookware set cooks food evenly.
In terms of complaints regarding this cookware set, some state that the lids get pretty hot when in use. The bottom of the pots and pans also appear to get a little discolored overtime as well. Lastly, while Farberware claims that the handles are cool to the touch when cooking, others find that they still get uncomfortably warm.
Top Features:
- Oven and broiler safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Safe on all stovetops, including induction
- Robust stainless steel skillet
- Dishwasher safe
- Stay-cool stainless-steel handles with rivets
- Includes 1-quart and 2-quart covered saucepans, 3-quart covered stockpot, 8-quart covered stockpot, and 8” and 10” skillets
8. Cooks Standard 10 Piece Multi Ply Clad Cookware Set, Stainless Steel
By far, the Cooks Standard 10 Piece is the best stainless steel pans with a multi ply clad. From its unique yet simple design to its overall function, this Cooks Standard set may be on of the best mid-ranged stainless steel sets around for under $200.
Rest assured that this cookware set is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is dishwasher friendly. To top it off (literally), the lids on the pots included with this set fit perfectly, and the handles stay cool as they are equipped with Cooks Standard airflow technology with a special V-shaped design. As for the pots and pans themselves, the three layers of clad metal they are constructed with make them durable, quick to heat, and top-notch at distributing heat.
There aren’t many cons to say about this 4.5-star set. However, if there is any change that would be convenient, the lids being see-through would definitely help many users. This is something that multiple reviewers have brought up. But ultimately, this set works well and is easy to clean.
Top Features:
- 18/10 stainless steel construction
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dishwasher safe
- Stay-cool, riveted handles
- Includes 1.5-quart saucepan, 3-quart saucepan, 4-quart/11” saute pan, 8-quart stockpot with lids and a steamer insert
9. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 11 Piece Cookware Set w/ Cover (77-11G)
Compatible with all stovetop surfaces, including induction, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 11 Piece Cookware Set is a great buy. This set offers a clean, classic appearance with a gorgeous mirror finish. It also features sturdy, tempered glass lids that fit snuggly. You also receive a steamer insert for added versatility.
According to Cuisinart, their 11 piece stainless steel set will not rust. This is especially ideal as this set is considered dishwasher safe. The aluminum base off these pots and pans are designed to heat up quickly while keeping the handles cool to the touch. To top it off, there are measurement markings to help guide you with adding the right amount of ingredients to your pots when cooking.
One thing to look out for, however, is that some state that this set is not all that easy to clean. One cheap even reviewed saying that the handles’ rivets on this set are on the cheaper side. Some even mentioned that food sticks and minor rust-like spots appeared after cooking. However, many of these cons are simple fixes with the right knowledge regarding stainless steel cookware as well as the right care. Hundreds are still pleased with the cookware set overall.
Top Features:
- Compatible with gas, smooth surface induction, smooth surface non-induction, and electric coil
- Oven, stovetop, and broiler safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dishwasher safe
- Cool grip handle
- Measurement markings
- Includes 1.5-quart covered sauce pan, 2.5-quart covered sauce pan, 3-quart covered sauce pan, 8-quart covered stockpot, 8” skillet, 10” skillet, and 18-centimeter steamer insert
10. Cook N Home Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
The rounded-off, mirror-finished designed and enlarged handles on the Cook N Home 12-Piece Cookware Set, along with its transparent, ventilated glass lids makes this set quite aesthetic. With over 2,000 Amazon reviews, an average 4-star rating, as well as having earned Amazon’s Choice, this tells us that this product has more to offer than just a gorgeous exterior.
With an aluminum disc on the bottom of each pot and pan, this allows for quick heating and the best heat distribution, all without worrying about hot spots. The riveted handles, according to Cook N Home, remain cool while the rest of the pot or pan stays hot. Generally, this is a heavy-duty, Teflon-free cookware set that most users find to meet their needs.
But before you purchase, take a look at some of the cons. For one, some complain that the glass lids offer thinner glass. Others say that the handles on these utensils get hotter to the touch, even though they are advertised as cool-touch.
Top Features:
- Mirror-polished 18/10 stainless-steel construction
- Compatible with gas, glass, electric, ceramic, halogen, induction, etc.
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (lids up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Cool-touch handles
- Dishwasher safe
- Includes: 1.5-quart sauce pan, 1.5-quart casserole, 2-quart casserole, 3-quart casserole, 5.5-quart stockpot, and 10” fry pan with lids
11. T-fal C511SE Excite Nonstick Thermo-Spot Cookware Set, 14-Piece, Purple
Last but not least, let’s feature another great cookware set but this time by T-fal. This set can be bought in four gorgeous colors, including: red, gold, blue, and purple (pictured below). Currently, each color is being sold on Amazon for under $65 (prices may vary) with a limited lifetime warranty included.
These non stick utensils, while only oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, are dishwasher friendly and offer ergonomic handles. But probably one of the best features about this set is that each pot and pan has a red dot in the center known as a Thermo-Spot. This spot turns solid red to indicate when your pot or pan is well-heated and ready to have food placed on it.
The first thing I noticed that was a con right off the bat was the fact that this set only includes five pots and pans in total along with four lids. The measuring spoons (five spoons in the same device) count for the other five pieces this 14 piece cookware set offers. In a way, this was perhaps a little misleading. A second con is that a few reviewers said that these pots and pans scratch easily. But again, this set is under $65. That’s a great deal for something attractive, innovative, and of course, functional.
Top Features:
- Thermo-Spot: Indicates when the pan is heated to the ideal temperature
- Oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
- Non-stick interior
- Dishwasher safe
- Ergonomic handle
- Includes 8” fry pan, 10.25” covered fry pan, 1-quart covered saucepan, 2-quart covered sauce , 5-quart covered Dutch oven, and 5 measuring spoons
Stainless Steel Cookware Buying Guide
Stainless Steel Vs Aluminum Or Cast Iron Cookware
One of the most common queries shoppers have is about how stainless steel cookware compares with other materials. For example, what’s superior: hard anodized aluminum, cast iron, or stainless? Most chefs will quickly argue that cast iron is irreplaceable, but cast iron isn’t the best for a lot of regular users. They can be tricky to clean, heavy to handle, and getting your heat and timing settings can be difficult for those who aren’t used to cooking on them. So that leaves a choice between aluminum and stainless steel. What are the pros and cons or each?
Stainless Steel
Whether you’re looking at nonstick stainless steel cookware or plain, there’s no doubt that it’s an excellent material for cooking utensils. It conducts heat well, retains heat for a long period of time, and won’t corrode or rust either. Here are the pros and cons of stainless cookware.
Pros
- Suited for cooking at high temperatures
- Retains heat for long cooking foods
- Inert material with no reactivity, making it great for cooking all foods
- No coatings required like on other nonstick cookware
- Strong material that won’t buckle or distort
- Compatible with induction cook tops
Cons
- Heavy to use
- Expensive to buy
- Heats and cools slowly
Aluminum
Aluminum is cheap, robust, and heats up quickly. It’s a great material and many chefs love it because it heats and cools so quickly, and comes at an affordable price point. Here are the pros and cons of aluminum cookware.
Pros
- Heats quickly
- Cheap and affordable (especially compared to stainless steel)
- Extremely lightweight
Cons
- Distorts, buckles, and warps very easily
- Any buckling makes it difficult for use on glass top stove tops
- Not induction compatible
- Generally feels quite cheap
In summary: if you’ve got the budget, stainless steel is the best option every time. But don’t discount aluminum, because it certainly has its place.
Is Stainless Steel Cookware Nonstick?
No. Stainless Steel Pans are not nonstick. This gives it a number of other advantages such as being able to handle higher heats and go in the oven. You'll make up for this by adjust the amount of oil, butter, or lard that you use while cooking.
Stainless Steel Cookware FAQ:
Picking out the best kitchen utensils for your needs can be more of a technical process than some may expect. Sizes, materials, color(s), feel of the handles, features, and the like all make a difference in stainless steel cookware. Let's look at some frequently asked questions that might assist in your buying process.
Are stainless steel pans oven safe?
Most stainless steel pans are safe to put in the oven. But before assuming your utensils are oven safe, please check the box or manual your cookware came in. Most cookware has a maximum temperature that it can safely handle. Additionally, while the pans themselves may be able to be placed in the oven, their lids may not be.
When to replace stainless cookware?
Before assuming your stainless steel cookware needs to be replaced, make sure to thoroughly clean it first. Looks can be deceiving.
Using a bit of warm vinegar can clean up stains nicely. (Yes, even “stainless” steel can get stains!) If that doesn’t work, try using vinegar, water, and baking soda and then heating it up. Some stains may require a bit of scrubbing or scraping.
However, you’ll know when it’s time to replace your stainless cookware when you notice any of the following:
- Multiple scratches inside your pot or pan
- Corrosion
- Stains that aren’t cleaning off
- Material is coming off the pan and into your food (Get new cookware right away!)
Are stainless steel pans dishwasher safe?
Putting it in dishwasher is said to be safe, but always check your cookware’s manual or box just to double check.
If your cookware is 18/10 stainless steel, it fortunately will not corrode in damp environments. Dishwash away! (Although, others prefer just to handwash them; either is fine.)
How long does stainless steel cookware last?
Good stainless steel cookware should last you a long time. I’m talking decades. Many cookware sets even have lifetime warranties as they are designed to last several years before showing signs of wear and tear.
However, depending on how much you use your cookware set, how you maintain it, and how you store it, your cookware may last shorter than anticipated. 4
Good care is essential, but never assume your cookware is fine just because you only had it for a few years or so. Low-quality, improperly cared for cookware will need a quicker replacement.
How to store stainless steel cookware?
Before storing your cookware, make sure your set is clean and free of stains. Do a brief inspection to verify your set is still safe to use. Make sure your pans are completely dry before storing.
If you have pure stainless steel cookware that’s high-end, refrain from stacking your pans. Instead, hang your cookware up, or store them in special cookware racks or shelving where they aren’t stacked. This can reduce the risks of scratches.
Will stainless steel cookware work on induction cooktop?
To use your stainless steel pots and pans on an induction cooktop, it will need to be made of magnetic-based materials. Full-clad cookware will work, such as cookware from All-Clad which offers some of the best stainless steel cookware for induction stovetop surfaces.
In Summary: What Is The Best Stainless Steel Cookware?
The best stainless steel cookware depends on your budget and what you want out of it. Any of the choices on our list are great choices but if we had to pick a top three for different reasons, then these would be our favorites:
The best premium stainless steel set would have to be the Calphalon Signature Stainless Steel 10-pc. Cookware Set. It is expensive, but it has everything you need with products that will last a long time.
The best budget option would be the Chef’s Classic 11-piece set from Cuisinart. There are cheaper options out there but this set has the best value for money. It’s a comprehensive cookware set from a brand that you can trust!
If we had to choose a best overall set, it would be another one from Cuisinart: the MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set. Smart, sleek, comprehensive, and of a high quality. This is a great one-size-fits-all cookware set for amateur cooks and professional chefs alike.
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