Best Cookware Sets Reviewed

If you’re considering picking up a few extra pots and pans for your kitchen arsenal or thinking about replacing a whole set, now is the time to do it. It’s a tough decision when you’re talking about plunking down a pile of dough on a set of pots and pans. It’s personal. If you cook a lot, it’s even an intimate decision – one that you probably will have to live with for a long time. Quality cookware is at the heart of any serious cook’s kitchen. You need a variety of pots, pans, woks and casseroles, maybe even a few specialty items. With more people choosing to eat healthier by cooking meals at home, the allure of owning top-shelf cookware is enticing. Cookware can be an expensive investment. So make sure you make a wise one.

Our Top 3 Picks

The kitchen is the heart of any home and we want it outfitted to serve our needs and decorating themes. It can be a daunting experience choosing the best cookware set for your home and family. If you sear meat often, uncoated stainless steel will facilitate even browning. If you prefer slow-cooked tomato sauces, even creamy sauces, you’ll want to steer clear of unlined copper cookware, which can impart bitterness. Long-lasting, classic, uncoated stainless steel is a good choice for browning and braising, while durable nonstick coatings effortlessly release even delicate foods, including eggs and pancakes. Aluminum cookware is an excellent heat conductor, as well as reasonably priced and lightweight.

Best Cookware Sets Reviews

Faced with a smorgasbord of cookware styles, materials, and price points—from cast iron and stainless steel, to nonstick enamel and copper—it’s wise to be well informed. We believe knowledge is power, so we present you our top picks of best cookware sets on the market to choose from.

1. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless 11-Piece Cookware Set

Straight from the kitchens of France and the number 1 choice on our best cookware sets list, Cuisinart brings you this great 100-Piece Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set for you and your family. Sauté, simmer, brown and fry with this versatile set which features stainless steel and pure aluminum encapsulated in the base for fast and even heating. This essential set makes it easy to prepare multiple dishes at once. It includes a terrific, large stockpot for making hearty pastas, and is also equipped with a steamer insert for steaming vegetables. Craft culinary masterpieces with this 11-piece stainless steel cookware set by Cuisinart. Premium stainless steel offers optimal cooking performance.

Features:

• Stainless steel and pure aluminum encapsulated in the base for fast and even heating
• Break-resistant glass covers allow you to monitor food while it is cooking without losing heat or food flavors
• Tight-fitting covers seal in moisture and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results, every time you cook
• Solid stainless steel riveted handles stay cool on the stovetop
• Drip-free pouring rims are tapered for drip-free pouring

Pros:

• Premium stainless steel offers optimal cooking performance.
• The aluminum encapsulated base heats quickly and spreads heat evenly, eliminating hot spots.
• The single layer constructed pans feature a non-reactive stainless steel finish that allows you to cook acidic foods without changing the color and taste.
• Cast stainless steel Cool Grip stick handles are contoured for a secure grip and designed to stay cool on the stovetop.
• Glass lids equipped with wide, easy-grip handles fit tight to lock in flavor, texture, and nutrients.
• Oven safe to 500°, this set can be used on stovetop, in oven, or under broiler, providing a range of versatile performance.
• This set can be used on a variety of stovetops, and is freezer safe for easy food storage.
• Rims of cookware are tapered to make pouring clean and easy. In addition, cookware is dishwasher safe, making cleanup effortless.
• Riveted stainless steel handles, including side grips and helper handles, are professionally riveted to ensure a lifetime of perfect balance.

Cons:

• They are not exactly non-stick pans which require special care.
• The pans don’t clean up easily.
• There are not enough directions on cleaning or using.
• Cheap rivets.
• Pots can get vulnerable if heated too much.

2. T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized 17-Piece Cookware Set

Over the years, through organic growth and acquisitions, T-fal has become the leading non-stick cookware maker worldwide and a world leader in pressure cookers, electrical cooking appliances, food and beverage preparation, irons and scales. And this versatile cookware set is no exception. The non-stick and scratch resistant surfaces and durable construction ensure this set will last. The unique T-fal Thermo-spot heat indicator shows when T-fal pan is perfectly preheated for cooking. The Pro-metal Pro interior protects the cooking surface and the Techno Resist Anti-Warp base gives you even heating and scratch protection bottom. The hard exterior coating of this set makes it durable and dishwasher safe.

Features:

• Hard anodized aluminum construction for durability
• Unique Thermo-Spot heat indicator for proper preheating
• Hard Titanium non-stick interior for long lasting performance
• Riveted silicone handles for safety and comfort
• TechnoResist Anti-warp base
• Anodized pans work well with a glass stove top
• Hard enamel exterior coating allows for care-free dishwasher usage
• Oven safe to 400F
• Ergonomic comfortable oven safe handles

Pros:

• The T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 17-piece black cookware set provides the pieces essential for day to day cooking.
• The unique T-fal Thermo-Spot heat indicator shows when T-fal pan is perfectly preheated to seal in the flavor of your food.
• The hard anodized exterior is fast and easy to clean and crafted for long-lasting durability.
• Riveted silicone handles are ergonomically designed for comfortable gripping and oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The non-stick Hard Anodized Cookware Set features Expert non-stick interior which is exceptionally durable and scratch resistant.
• Expert non-stick interior is safe for use with metal utensils. The Hard Anodized exterior is fast and easy to clean. This set is dishwasher safe.
• T-fal non-stick cookware is designed to distribute heat quickly and evenly, preventing hot spots and sticking.

Cons:

• Extra storage is needed as it comes with 17 pieces.
• Not compatible with induction cooktops.
• Skillets don’t have lids.

3. Vremi 15-Piece Nonstick Color Pop Cookware Set

A smart choice for smart housewives, this 15-piece nonstick cookware set from Vremi is specially designed for anyone who loves cooking. This versatile set comes with a generous number of pieces to make sure your kitchen is fit for most of the routine cooking activities. For the pots and pans have their cool-touch ergonomic handles and our utensils are crafted from FDA-grade nylon. Cookware set includes: 14 x 6.5cm saucepan with glass lid capacity: 1.1qt, 16 x 7cm saucepan with glass lid capacity: 1.5qt, 18 x 8cm saucepan with glass lid capacity: 2.1 QT, 24 x 11cm stockpot with glass lid capacity: 5.3 QT, 20 x 4cm fry pan / 8” and 26 x 5cm fry pan / 10”. 5 pieces FDA grade nylon tools.

Features:

• Ultimate kitchen starter set with 6 nonstick pots and pans and 5 nonstick cooking utensils
• Saucepans and dutch ovens include glass lids for versatile functionality
• Mini saucepan, small dutch oven, and small fry pan are perfectly sized for camping or travel
• Oven safe, PTFE and PFOA free cookware includes cool-touch ergonomic handles
• Cooking utensils are dishwasher safe; hand washing recommended for cookware

Pros:

• Nonstick kitchen cookware set in durable aluminum for all kinds of everyday cooking activities.
• Multicolor pots and pans set also include 5 easy clean nonstick cooking utensils in black BPA free nylon.
• Colorful large and small fry pans, saucepans and dutch ovens deliver the perfectly sized pot or pan for every recipe.
• Oven safe cookware includes glass lids for soup or stock pot for added functionality.
• Cooking pots and pans made from non-toxic PTFE and PFOA free aluminum.
• Mini saucepan, small dutch oven and small fry pan are perfectly sized for camping or travel.
• Saucepans and dutch ovens include glass lids for versatile functionality.

Cons:

• Doesn’t come with lids to fit the skillets.
• The pots are heavy and large.

4. Paula Deen Signature Nonstick 15-Piece Porcelain Cookware Set

The Paula Deen Signature Nonstick is an attractive looking cookware range that can give you the impression of love at first sight. The fun, speckled exteriors of this 15-piece cookware set are eye-catching, but it’s the performance and convenience that will have cooks singing its praises. Whether creating a batch of gumbo in the covered stockpot or gravy in one of the covered saucepans, this high-quality, durable cookware will help any dish come to life with ease. The set also comes with handy measuring spoons so Paula’s recipes can be successfully re-created with all the right measurements. So you see there is more than one reason to fall for this collection by Paula Deen.

Features:

• Colorful speckled porcelain exterior will enhance every kitchen from contemporary to traditional
• The attractive exterior is durable, stain-resistant and a breeze to clean
• Heavy gauge construction heats up quickly and evenly
• Durable DuPont Teflon Select nonstick interiors provide easy cleaning and long-lasting food release
• Color-coordinated, dual-riveted, soft-touch handles are designed to provide a comfortable, secure grip
• Stylish copper plated rings are attached for hanging convenience
• Oven safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Tempered glass lids lock in flavors and let you watch your food cook without lifting the lid
• Copper plated knobs add a punch of color and sophistication to spice up your kitchen

Pros:

• The speckled design makes the cookware set look enthralling and the red, green, blue and yellow colors only add to its fun.
• Cooking food will turn into a fun filled activity with this ultimate cookware set from Paula Deen.
• These are really reasonably priced pots and pans that can be purchased at any time you want.
• Extremely low maintenance cookware because of its smart built and state of the art technique that goes into manufacturing it.
• Glass lids form a tight seal to keep heat and moisture locked in, while allowing the cooking process to be overseen.
• The lids also feature copper color-accented knobs, which are easy to grasp.
• This cookware is oven safe to 350°F for added convenience.
• Color-coordinated handles are dual riveted for extra strength and also feature a soft-touch grip for comfort.
• The handles are accented with copper-plated rings for additional storage options.
• Porcelain enamel exteriors add a dash of color to your kitchen and are scratch-resistant, durable and easy to clean.

Cons:

• Some users had problems with the handles loosen after a few uses.
• Pans are too small for a family of 5.

5. T-fal Initiatives Nonstick Charcoal 18-Piece Cookware Set

Add style and substance to your cookware with the T-Fal Initiatives 18-Piece Cookware Set. This complete set features superior non-stick interior and exterior for easy cooking and easy cleanup. The Initiatives 18-Piece Cookware Set provides superior non-stick interior for easy cooking and easy cleanup. The even heat base delivers even heat distribution for reliable cooking results. Stock your kitchen with this all-inclusive cookware set, featuring nonstick pots and pans and complementing tools for flipping, serving, and mixing. The red non-stick cookware set is dishwasher safe and oven safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The pans are safe for all cooking methods except induction. The pans are equipped with ergonomically designed, stay-cool handles for safe use and glass lids for easy viewing of cooking progress.

Features:

• Easy non-stick 18pc set includes every piece for your everyday meals.
• Exceptionally durable dishwasher safe cookware for easy cleanup
• Durable non-stick interior for easy cleaning and cooking
• Ergonomic comfortable grip. Oven safe up to 350°F/177°C
• Delivers even heat distribution for reliable cooking results
• Aluminum construction, venting tempered glass lids
• Safe for all cooking methods except induction

Pros:

• The Initiatives 18-Piece Cookware Set provides superior non-stick interior for easy cooking and easy cleanup.
• The even heat base delivers even heat distribution for reliable cooking results.
• The red non-stick cookware set is dishwasher safe and oven safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The pans are safe for all cooking methods except induction.
• The pans are equipped with ergonomically designed, stay-cool handles for safe use and glass lids for easy viewing of cooking progress.
• T-fal non-stick cookware is designed to distribute heat quickly and evenly, preventing hot spots and sticking.
• This cookware set comes with vented, tempered glass lids and adjusting knobs to vent steam for controlled cooking.
• The Polytetrafluoroethylene coating is great and food never sticks. And they clean up very nice and the variety of sizes of the pans is great.

Cons:

• The skillets and sauce pans cannot be used at high temperatures.
• The pans aren’t as heavy as other cookware sets on the market.

6. Rachael Ray Hard Anodized II Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set

Create delicious, innovative yet nutritious meals with the help of Rachael Ray Hard Anodized II Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set. Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized cookware is the perfect combination of durability and style, and this 10-piece set certainly fits the bill. This set has all the essential pieces to make memorable meals every day. It not only provides your home with a burst of color, but makes your cooking experience a little more simple and fun. With two saucepans for simmering soups and sauces, a stockpot for chili and pastas, a sauté pan for your braised beef and skillet for searing, your mealtime menus just got a bit more exciting.

Features:

• This cookware boasts hard-anodized construction for swift, even heating
• Pan interiors are coated in durable nonstick for impeccable food release and easy cleanup
• The pots and pans feature double-riveted grippy handles
• Shatter-resistant glass lids make it easy to monitor foods while they cook
• Oven safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Cookware is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup

Pros:

• The Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set is constructed with hard-anodized aluminum that promotes quick and even heating to reduce hot spots that lead to scorching and burning.
• Food will release effortlessly with the long-lasting, non-stick interiors.
• The rubberized handles, which are dual riveted for strength, allow for easy transport, turning and pouring, and they’re oven safe for added convenience.
• The tempered glass lids allow you to monitor your food while it cooks, keeping heat and moisture sealed in.
• Grippy handles feature striking orange padding for a comfortable feel.
• This cookware is oven safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher safe for convenient, fast and simple cleanup.
• Makes your cooking experience simple and fun.

Cons:

• Looks great from the design perspective but the quality is not so good.
• Cannot be used on induction cooktops.

7. Cook N Home 12-Piece Stainless Steel Set

The Cook N Home 12-Piece Stainless Steel Set combines superior quality and a sleek design to upgrade any kitchen. This cookware set includes 1.1/2-Quart sauce pan with lid; 1.1/2-Quart casserole with lid; 2-Quart casserole with lid; 3-Quart casserole with lid; 5.1/2-Quart stock pot with lid; 10-Inch fry pan with lid. This cookware set gives you all the basics so you can get started in a new kitchen with the essential pots and pans. The set provides enough pans for you to complete intricate recipes that require cooking separate components simultaneously. With riveted handles, the Cook N Home 12-piece Stainless Steel Set has strength and durability you can count on.

Features:

• Mirror polished stainless steel, inside and outside
• Capsulated bottom for even heat distribution
• Suitable for all cooking sources: electric and gas stove or glass and ceramic
• Stainless handle riveted to provide durability
• Tempered glass lid for clear view of cooking foods

Pros:

• These pans are designed to distribute heat evenly whether you cook with gas or electricity.
• This cookware set gives you all the basics so you can get started in a new kitchen with the essential pots and pans.
• The set provides enough pans for you to complete intricate recipes that require cooking separate components simultaneously.
• Constructed of mirror polished material, it features capsulated bottoms with aluminum cores for even heat distribution.
• The tempered glass lids allow you to monitor your food while they cook which adds efficiency to your meal preparation.
• Items are dishwasher safe and suitable for all cooktops.
• The stainless steel finish means your set looks stunning displayed on the wall or hanging above your range.

Cons:

• The pieces are quite lightweight considering all the features.
• Requires a little extra effort while cleaning.
• Handles get hot at times.

8. Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

The kitchens of France were the inspiration behind the elegant Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Stainless Cookware collection. From reheating a single portion of soup to preparing appetizers, entrees and side dishes for the entire family, you’ll find every tool you need in this deluxe set. Multiclad Pro features an aluminum core bonded to a brushed stainless steel exterior and mirror finish stainless steel interior, creating beautiful cookware that is also durable. The interiors are mirror-polished for non-reactive, quick release of foods. You’ll also find solid cast stainless-steel handles that stay cool on the stovetop, tight-fitting stainless-steel lids, and drip-free pouring rims. Each piece is oven-safe to 500 degrees F, and the pans are safe for broiler use, too.

Features:

• Polished cooking surface does not discolor, react with food or alter flavors
• Cookware features cool grip handles secured with stainless steel rivets and self-basting, tight fitting lids
• Triple-Ply construction includes the unsurpassed heat conductivity of a pure aluminum core
• It ensures maximum heat retention and even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots
• Oven safe up to 550F, Rims are tapered for drip-free pouring
• Dishwasher safe, Tight-fitting stainless steel covers seal in food’s natural juices and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results
• Covers are dishwasher-safe
• The set consists of: 1-1/2- and 3-quart covered saucepans; 8- and 10-inch open skillets; 3-1/2-quart covered saute pan; 8-quart covered stockpot; steamer insert with lid

Pros:

• The exteriors of the 18/10 stainless steel pots and pans feature a handsome brushed finish, while the interiors are mirror-polished for non-reactive, quick release of foods.
• The tri-ply Heat Surround technology sandwiches an aluminum core in the base and side walls for superior, even heating.
• The 1-1/2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids take care of everything from oatmeal to béchamel sauce, and the veggie steamer insert with its own lid fits the larger saucepan.
• The new handles provide a modern and professional style while maintaining a comfortable and controlled grip.
• Heat Surround technology maintains even heat distribution along the bottoms and side walls of the cookware, eliminating hotspots.
• Premium stainless steel cooking surfaces do not react with food or alter natural flavors.
• Aluminum core heats and cools quickly for precise temperature control.
• Tight-fitting stainless steel covers seal in food’s natural juices and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results.

Cons:

• Some users complain about food sticking to the pots.
• Soil from other dishes in the dishwasher may be abrasive or some other cooking utensil might spoil or scratch the surface of the cookware.

9. Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set

The Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set includes all the essentials for everyday cooking. Featuring 8-inch and 10-inch fry pans, 1.5-quart and 2.5-quart sauce pans with covers, a 3-quart sauté pan with cover, and a 6-quart stock pot with cover, this kitchen set offers exceptional versatility and the durability to stand up to daily use. Made from brushed stainless steel with impact-bonded aluminum bases for fast and even heating, this classic 10-piece cookware set is durably constructed for reliable everyday performance. It is a boon for a modern lifestyle with all the goodies that today’s household with busy schedules looks forward to.

Features:

• Versatile and durable 10-piece cookware set
• Durable brushed stainless steel construction
• Fast-heating aluminum bases
• Long, stay-cool stainless steel handles
• Dishwasher safe for quick cleanup
• Oven and broiler safe
• Suitable for all cooktops including induction

Pros:

• Each piece in this Calphalon cookware set has an impact-bonded aluminum base for even heating and a durable stainless steel construction.
• This kitchen set offers exceptional versatility and the durability to stand up to daily use.
• Most pots and pans in this ultimate cookware set feature etched measuring marks to help save you time in the kitchen while preparing your favorite foods.
• Tempered glass lids with stainless steel rims and handles allow you to easily monitor your food while it cooks.
• Lids have integrated straining holes that line up with pan pour spouts to make draining excess liquid effortless.
• The set is made of brushed stainless steel, with impact-bonded aluminum bases for even, consistent heating.
• Long, cast stainless steel handles stay cool on the stovetop for comfortable handling.
• The set is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, though handwashing is recommended to preserve the luster of the stainless steel.
• This cookware set is intended for gas, electric, electric ring, halogen, glass ceramic, or induction stovetops, and can be used with all types of utensils.

Cons:

• Cannot cook eggs in these.
• The pots and pans seem to burn very easily.

10. Rachael Ray 14-Piece Hard Enamel Nonstick Cookware Set

Add versatility and sophistication to your everyday cooking with the Rachael Ray 14 Piece Hard Enamel Nonstick Cookware Set. From saucepans and skillets to a large stockpot for one of Rachael Ray’s delish stoups, to kitchen tools and a baking sheet, this versatile cookware set makes it easy to whip up your favorite dishes. The cookware and bakeware features the quality design and construction expected from Rachael Ray for fast, efficient cooking when you want and need it most. The cookware’s stylish two-tone exterior color makes a bold style statement, while the long-lasting nonstick interiors provide easy food release and make cleanup a breeze.

Features:

• Cookware features sturdy construction for fast, efficient heating with reduced hot spots
• Durable enamel exteriors add bold color to the kitchen
• Long-lasting nonstick interior releases food quickly and cleans easily
• Shatter-resistant glass lids seal in heat and moisture, while the cooking remains visible
• Cookware and bakeware feature comfortable
• Grippy silicone rubber handles for solid grasp
• Includes Oven Lovin’ Crispy Pan nonstick cookie sheet with silicone handle grips, perfect for roasting and baking with easy cleanup
• With three sturdy, colorful Rachael Ray cooking tools ideal for use with the nonstick cookware and bakeware
• Cookware is oven safe to 350°F; bakeware is safe to 450°F

Pros:

• The cookware’s stylish two-tone exterior color makes a bold style statement, while the long-lasting nonstick interiors provide easy food release and cleanup.
• Sturdy colorful enamel cookware provides a pop of kitchen personality, and match the grippy silicone handles on the pots and pans and cookie sheet.
• The covered pots and pans in the cookware set feature shatter-resistant glass lids to keep the heat and moisture inside.
• The cookware is oven safe to 350°F, while the cookie pan is oven safe to 450°F.
• From saucepans and skillets to a large stockpot for one of Rachael Ray’s delish stoups, to kitchen tools and a baking sheet, this versatile cookware set makes it easy to whip up your favorite dishes.
• The cookware and bakeware features the quality design and construction expected from Rachael Ray for fast, efficient cooking when you want and need it most.

Cons:

• Hand wash only or the non-stick coating will be ruined.
• Not durable enough.
• Some users are disappointed with the product quality.

Decision Time

We’ve included everything from affordable, everyday options to highly durable sets that could handle the demands of a busy kitchen. We are sure you will find the perfect pots and pans for your next culinary creation from our wide selection of cookware sets. Happy shopping!