10 Best Cookware Set Under $200 – Updated 2023!
Cookware sets are an essential part of any kitchen, but finding a high-quality set that doesn’t break the bank can be a challenge. In this article, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best cookware sets under $200 that you can find in the market today.
We’ve considered factors such as material, durability, versatility, and user reviews to bring you a diverse selection of top picks that offer exceptional value for your money.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find something to suit your needs and budget in this comprehensive guide. So, let’s get started!
Read the Buying Guide
Best Cookware Under $200 in 2023!
1. Best Overall - Cuisinart Chef's Classic Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.7
- Price: $188.99
Pros:
- 14 Piece cookware set
- Quality nonstick
- Metal utensil safe
- Measuring marks
- Even heat distribution
Cons:
- Handles heat up after a while
The Cuisinart 14-Piece chef’s classic is the best cookware set you can have under $200.
What’s best about it?
- Hard anodized aluminum exterior
- Titanium reinforced nonstick
The cookware includes:
1-quart saucepan, 2 quarts saucepan, 3-quart saucepan, 3 quarts saute pan with a helper, 8-quart stockpot, all with covers; An 8-inch open skillet, 10 inches covered skillet, and an 18-centimeter multi steamer insert.
Features & Benefits:
This is a 14-piece cookware set that has everything you need to have in your kitchen to get started.
The cookware is made of hard-anodized aluminum which makes the cookware harder and tougher than stainless steel. the thick hard-anodized aluminum is used to make sure the cookware withstand the daily beating of your kitchen.
The interior nonstick surface is titanium reinforced which makes the nonstick coating harder to withstand the metal utensils.
It is advised to cook your food on low or medium heat if you want to keep nonstick of your pans intact and in perfect shape for long.
The saucepan in particular has measuring marks inside the pan that tells you about the quantity of food or water you have and it also helps in cooking your food in the exact and precise manner.
Due to aluminum construction, the heat conduction is maximum and the cookware is designed to make sure heat is distributed evenly from the bottom to the wall.
While we were testing out this cookware in our kitchen, we found that the stick handles, unique to Cuisinart, heats up but not quickly. The handles will heat up after a while if your cooking session is longer than normal.
The glass lids are break-resistant and they help in monitoring the food while it’s cooking and without lifting the lids. The stainless steel side rims give you a good fit over the pans and pots and it won’t let go of the moisture and nutrients trapped inside the pan.
Our Verdict:
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic cookware is the best thing that can happen to you if you are looking for cookware under $200.
2. Best Runner-up - Calphalon Simply Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.7
- Price: $199.99
Pros:
- 10 Piece cookware
- Even heat distribution
- Shatter-proof glass lids
- Oven-safe up to 450F
Cons:
- Glass lids has no vents
This is the 10-piece cookware with great design and durability.
What’s best about it?
- 3mm thick hard-anodized aluminum construction
- 2-layered nonstick coating
The cookware includes:
8″ fry pan, 10″ fry pan, 1-quart saucepan with cover, 2-quart saucepan with cover, 3-quart saute pan with cover, 6-quart stockpot with cover.
Features & Benefits:
The cookware is made of 3mm thick hard-anodized aluminum. This material is harder than stainless steel and with that, aluminum is a great heat conductor as compared to stainless steel. The harder the material, the more durable it is.
As said, aluminum conducts heat pretty good and it distributes heat evenly throughout the pans and pots which you need to make your recipes preciously.
Speaking of nonstick, the cookware features PFOA-free 2 layers of nonstick coating which makes the cooking surface harder and tougher for daily use.
The nonstick layers are hard enough to withstand metal utensils but if you want the nonstick to perform longer, avoid the metal utensils and use wooden or silicone utensils.
We liked the handles because the handles stayed cool during the cooking session. The handles are well riveted and are silicone wrapped for easy and comfortable grip.
The cookware features shatter-proof glass lids. The glass lids have no vents, which means all the moisture and the nutrients will be trapped inside the pans and nothing will escape because the stainless steel rims on the edges of the glass lids, give you a good fit over the pans n pots.
The cookware can go from the stovetop to the oven without any trouble. The oven temperature should not exceed 450F and the pan should be without the lids.
Our Verdict:
Calphalon Simply can truly be the ideal choice for cooking enthusiasts who are on a budget.
3. Best Stainless Steel - Cuisinart Professional Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.7
- Price: $189.99
Pros:
- 11 Piece cookware
- Induction compatible
- Oven-proof up to 500F
- Drip free pouring
Cons:
- Steel handles will get hot after some time
The 11-piece cookware comes with the elegance and style of modern cookware.
What’s best about it?
- Induction compatible
- Oven-safe up to 500F
The cookware includes:
2 Qt. Saucepan with cover, 3 Qt. Pour Saucepan with straining cover, 3 Qt. Saute Pan with helper handle and cover, 8 Qt. Stockpot with cover, 8″ Non-Stick Skillet, 10″ Skillet, and 18 cm Steamer Insert.
Features & Benefits:
The gas stove cookware set is made of heavy gauge 18/10 grade stainless steel. As we all know that stainless steel is not a good heat conductor, this is why the base of the pans consists of three-layer.
Aluminum is encapsulated between two layers of stainless steel. the overall construction is 18/10 grade stainless steel, as said earlier, but the flat base layer of stainless steel is magnetic grade and this is why this cookware is induction compatible.
The handles are made of cast stainless steel and give the cookware a very sturdy look and feel. The handles are well designed to stay cool as long as possible. Eventually, all-metal handles get hot. Some handles get hot quickly and some take time. These handles will take time to get hot, especially on gas stoves, because of their design.
The glass lids, that come with the cookware, are shatter-proof and the stainless steel rim over the edge of the glass lids give you a good fit and sit over the pots.
The cookware is oven-safe up to 500F without lids. And glass lids are oven-safe up to 350F. This is something you should not ignore or you will lose your glass lids.
One thing that we really do have in cookware is the flared edges because, without flared edges, the pouring out of the food will be quite messy. The flared edges give you a drip-free pouring-out experience.
Our Verdict:
If you are a professional home cook or you have a small restaurant, to do the daily cooking, you will need a trusted and reliable cookware, and we recommend this cookware if you are on a budget.
4. Best for Induction Cooking - Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.6
- Price: $199.99
Pros:
- 10 Piece cookware
- Induction compatible
- Even heat distribution
- Pouring spouts
- Straining holes
Cons:
- The lid handles get hot with the pot
This 10-piece cookware is induction compatible and one of the most trusted cookware from Calphalon.
What’s best about it?
- Induction Compatible
- 3-Ply Bonded Base for maximum heat conduction
The cookware includes:
8″ fry pan, 10″ fry pan, 1.5-qt. saucepan with cover, 2.5-qt. saucepan with cover, 3-qt. saute pan with cover, 7-qt. Dutch oven with cover.
Features & Benefits:
The 10-piece cookware set from Calphalon is made of heavy gauge 18/10 stainless steel. This is a beautiful set of cookware that will last for years to come and you can enjoy cooking with ease and comfort.
The base of the pans and pots are bonded with 3 layers of metal for maximum heat conduction and even heat distribution.
The aluminum layer is added in between the two layers of stainless steel. Aluminum is a great heat conductor, a lot better than stainless steel, that’s why it is added to make the cookware more efficient in cooking and heating.
The outer layer in the base is 18/0 grade, where there is 0% nickel and this makes the stainless steel magnetic grade and thus induction compatible.
The stainless steel handles are well designed to give a good comfortable grip. The handles will stay cool for the most part but eventually will get hot if your cooking session prolongs.
The best thing we found about this cookware is that the glass lids have straining holes on them and to make the pouring easy without dripping, the pots and pans have pouring spouts.
In case you want to take the cooking pot from your stovetop and straight into the oven, you can do so because the cookware is oven-safe up to 450F.
Our Verdict:
If you are looking for a good quality stainless steel cookware that is also induction compatible within the budget, Calphalon Classic is the one you should go for.
5. Best Copper Core - T-fal Ultimate Copper Bottom Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.7
- Price: $165.99
Pros:
- 13 Piece cookware
- Induction compatible
- Copper core
- Heats up quickly
Cons:
- Handles are hollow and cheap quality
T-fal Ultimate 13-piece stainless steel cookware features a copper core and is induction compatible.
What’s best about it?
- Induction compatible
- Copper core base
The cookware includes:
8 inches fry pan, 10.5 inches fry pan, 12 inches fry pan with lid, 1-quart saucepan with lid, 2 quarts; Saucepan with lid, 3 quarts; Saucepan with lid, 5 quarts; Dutch oven with lid and stainless steel steamer.
Features & Benefits:
The cookware is made of heavy gauge stainless steel with a unique slightly curved shape which allows you to have more food than others.
The base of the cookware is made of 3-ply. It is the combination of the three best metals for heat conduction, i.e. copper, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Aluminum is encapsulated between copper and stainless steel to even heat distribution. Copper is added to the base for maximum heat conduction.
The cooking pots and pans heat up quickly, thanks to the inclusion of copper and aluminum in the base, and it cools down quickly.
With the inclusion of a magnetic-grade stainless steel layer at the outer bottom, the cookware is induction compatible.
The cookware features shatter-proof glass lids that have vents on them. The glass lids enable you to monitor the food from the outside while it is cooking.
This is important for you to know that we didn’t like the stainless steel handles that are riveted to the pots and pans. They are hollow, they are short in length, and they get hot quickly.
The interior of the cookware is stainless steel which is non-reactive to acidic foods. We recommend using the cookware on low or medium heat if you want to prevent your food from sticking.
Our Verdict:
Overall, this is reasonably well-constructed cookware with its pros n cons. As we mentioned earlier that we were not comfortable with the handles, but if you are ok with it, it’s a good buy.
6. Best Oven-Safe - Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.6
- Price: $189.99
Pros:
- 12 Piece cookware
- Dishwasher safe
- Oven safe up to 400F
Cons:
- Outer surface is not scratch resistant
This is 12-piece cookware that features all the required pieces to meet your kitchen needs.
What’s best about it?
- Hard anodized construction
- Oven-safe up to 400F
The cookware includes:
1-quart and 2-quart saucepans with lid, 6-quart stockpot with lid, 8.5 inch and 10-inch frying pans, 3-quart saute pan with lid and utensils.
Features & Benefits:
Racheal Ray Cucina is one of the best-selling 12-piece cookware because of its construction, durability, and ease of use. The cookware is made of hard-anodized aluminum which is a lot stronger than stainless steel.
Compared to stainless steel, aluminum is a lot better in heat conduction and heat is evenly distributed throughout the pans.
Though the cookware is dishwasher safe, we will recommend hand wash it every time with warm water and mild detergent if you want to keep the exterior and interior finish intact.
The cookware features shatter-proof glass lids which helps a lot while preparing your food because you can monitor your food without lifting the lid.
The handles are well riveted to the pots and pans, and to give you a cool and comfortable grip, they are wrapped in silicone.
With all that, the cookware is completely safe to go into the oven up to 400F without lids. Make sure you remove the lids before putting the cookware in the preheated oven.
Our Verdict:
Racheal Ray Cucina gives you a reasonable assortment of cookware with good looks and durability, that are necessary for you to get started in your kitchen.
7. Best Nonstick - T-fal Professional Nonstick Cookware Set
- Rating: 4.6
- Price: $107.99
Pros:
- 12 Piece cookware
- Scratch resistant
- Oven-safe up to 400F
Cons:
- The smallest pan is too small for anything
This is a 12-piece cookware set that can be used on induction too.
What’s best about it?
- Induction compatible
- Oven-safe up to 400F
The cookware includes:
8 inches fry pan, 10.25 inches fry pan, 1 Egg Wonder fry pan, 1 quart; saucepan with lid, 3 quarts; saucepan with lid, 5 quarts; stockpot, stainless steel steamer insert, and 2 nylon tools.
Features & Benefits:
The cookware is made of hard-anodized aluminum which is sturdy and long-lasting if used according to the instruction manual. The hard-anodized aluminum construction is way better, tougher, and harder than stainless steel. Many of us prefer using hard-anodized aluminum cookware because it is tougher than stainless steel, it looks good and it comes with a nonstick interior.
Let’s talk about the interior of the cookware. The interior features toxin-free titanium-reinforced nonstick which is harder and tougher than all other nonstick and it makes the surface scratch resistant and you can use metal utensils on this surface too.
The ThermoSpot technology, which is unique to T-fal is a great indicator when you are preheating the pans. The spot in the center will turn red and you will know that the pan is ready to be used.
The handles are well riveted and are wrapped with silicone to give a good comfortable and cool-to-touch grip.
The glass lids have vents on them and are shatter-proof. The glass lids help you monitor your food while it is cooking without lifting it. The cookware is oven-safe up to 400F without lids.
Our Verdict:
The cookware offers a decent number of pieces with induction compatibility at a reasonable price. It is recommended to you if you want induction compatible cookware with healthy nonstick.
8. Best Affordable - Rachael Ray Brights Nonstick
- Rating: 4.6
- Price: $159.99
Pros:
- 14 Piece cookware set
- Beautiful solid exterior
- Even heat distribution
- Oven-safe up to 450F
Cons:
- Glass lids has no vents
- Not induction compatible
Rachael Ray Brights Non-stick Cookware gives your kitchen aesthetics along with its outstanding functionality.
What’s best about it?
- Durable aluminum construction
- Rubberized dual-riveted grippy handles
The cookware includes:
1-Quart and 2-Quart Saucepans with Lids, 3-Quart Saute Pan, 6-Quart Stockpot with Lid, 8.5-Inch, and 10-Inch Frying Pan, 10-Inch x 15-Inch Cookie Pan, Nylon Turner, Silicone Spoonula and Spatula
Features & Benefits:
A quality cookware set is the backbone of every kitchen. This beautiful and functional Rachael Ray Classic Brights Porcelain Non-stick 14-Piece Cookware Set has all the shapes and sizes of pots and pans, along with fitted lids and handy utensils. This stylish cookware features a two-tone gradient exterior that adds a splash of modern color to your cooktop.
Now Coming towards the most attractive feature of the product, which is its durable aluminum construction. Along with this, it offers a hard enamel finish for even heat distribution and better results.
This cookware also incorporates modern technical properties like long-lasting non-stick that helps with easy food release and quick cleanup. This non-stick feature is free of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), a harmful chemical found in Teflon.
This is important for you to know that non-stick also requires special utensils that will not scratch, scrape, or otherwise damage the coating.
Their rubberized dual-riveted handles offer strength and a comfortable grasp while cooking. They are oven safe to 350 degrees F, and cookware is oven safe to 450 degrees F. The set also provides some accessories for turning and flipping. That includes a spatula, a spoonful, and a medium turner. They are dishwasher safe.
One more advantage is the price of the cookware, and provides a good value for money. Such comprehensive cookware is hard to find at such a low price.
Our Verdict:
The Rachael Ray Non-stick Cookware delivers on its non-stick promise at a low price while helping create delicious meals for the whole family. It is a handy choice for users who wants to make their cooking tasks quick.
9. Best Try-Ply – Duxtop Stainless Steel Induction
- Rating: 4.5
- Price: $169.99
Pros:
- 10 Piece cookware set
- Induction compatible
- 3 Ply solid construction
Cons:
- Handles will get hot after a while
Duxtop Whole-clad Tri-ply Stainless Steel Premium Cookware Set will give you the exact cooking set properties and features for your needs.
What’s best about it?
- Whole-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel construction
- Mirror polished exterior
The cookware includes:
8-Inch, 10-Inch Fry Pan; 3-Quart Saute Pan with lid and handle helper; 1.6-Quart and 3-Quart covered saucepan; 6-1/2-Quart saucepot with cover
Features & Benefits:
Duxtop Whole-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set provides you with everything you need for creating endless recipes that require precise functionality and classic design. It has a silver shiny stainless steel body that looks elegant and complements any kitchen.
Constructed with the Whole-Clad Tri-Ply process, that binds three layers into one. There is a thick layer of aluminum sandwiched between two layers of durable stainless steel. This property eliminates hot spots for evenly distributing heat to the base and the sides of each piece. With its exclusive technology, you can enhance your cooking experience and also durable than encapsulated-base cookware.
The stay-cool handles are convenient to hold and are tightly riveted to the pans. Eventually the handles will get hot if your cooking session prolongs.
Quick heat up, maximum temperature control, and fast even heat distribution make cooking perfect meals effortlessly. They are Dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 550 degrees F. The Mirror polished inside and outside appearance makes the interior and exterior easy to clean. It helps you to quickly complete your work rather than spending more time with your cookware in the kitchen.
The outer magnetic stainless-steel layer makes it compatible with all cooktops, including electric, gas, infrared, induction stove, or Radiant glass and ceramic cooktop. Besides all these excellent features, it gives you a lifetime limited warranty.
Our Verdict:
You can have a significant cookware collection by purchasing this masterpiece. It will function beautifully with proper use and maintenance. The price can easily fit with any budget, and the polished stainless steel design gives aesthetic look to your kitchen.
10. Best Ceramic - T-fal Initiatives Ceramic
- Rating: 4.5
- Price: $90.99
Pros:
- 14 Piece cookware
- Scratch resistant interior
- Healthy nonstick
- Even heat distribution
Cons:
- Not induction compatible
T-Fal is durable yet affordable cookware that offers a better non-stick surface with fewer unnatural chemicals.
What’s best about it?
- Ceramic non-stick interior and exterior
- ThermoSpot technology with even heat base
The cookware includes:
8.5 inches Fry Pan, 10.5 inches Fry Pan, 11 inches Covered Fry Pan, 1-quart Covered Saucepan, 2-quart Covered Saucepan, 5 quarts Covered Dutch Oven, 4 Nylon Tools
Features & Benefits:
T-fal Ceramic Non-stick Toxic-Free 14-Piece Cookware Set features all the essentials. These everyday pots and pans are ready to perform a variety of cooking tasks. It is an affordable alternative to some expensive ceramic non-stick cookware without compromising on quality. The design of the cookware is classic and suitable for any kitchen.
It has a ceramic non-stick interior that resists scratching and staining while allowing you to cook various meals. The ceramic coatings are toxic-free and evenly distribute the heat all around the pan. They also demand less oil which makes healthy meals.
The handles are heat resistant and riveted to the sides of the pans, which offers a tight grip. There are tempered glass lids with heat-resistant handles. There are vented lids to allow excess moisture and pressure to escape.
This is important for you to know that the cookware is suitable for a variety of cooktops except for induction.
With its non-stick exterior, cleaning becomes a breeze, and it can resist heat up to 570-degree Fahrenheit. They are also dishwasher safe, but you can prefer hand washing that resists damage to the coating.
Our Verdict:
The set is best for beginner cooks and also handy in price. The non-stick property makes it easy for the cooks by offering them to spend less time with their cookware for cleaning purposes.
What factors to consider before buying the cookware set under $200!
There are seven main factors to consider before buying cookware set under $200!
Size & Usage of The Cookware:
Logically it is not suitable or convenient to cook any food in a one-size pot or pan. For each cooking task, you need different pots and pans of multiple shapes and sizes.
The market is full of a variety of cookware that has small, medium, or large pans. You can select the one which you think will fit best for your needs. Now it depends on your cooking style or the way you want to use your cookware.
For beginners who want a fully functional set can go for proper full-size set cookware. On the other hand if you only cook on weekends or want to have the basic utensils in your kitchen, then you can select the set of 8-10 pots and pans.
Also, storage is the main reason which can force you to choose the cookware according to it. Like small kitchens would be suitable for a small cookware set and more likely, a stackable set of cookware.
Handles of Pots & Pans:
Pots and pans come with handles that allow them to handle the cookware comfortably and safely while cooking. They are made up of different materials, so make sure that handles should always remain cool even when the cookware is hot.
Moreover, tight rivets and a smooth grip ensure comfortable cooking.
Lids of The Cookware:
Usually, pans come with their lids which are tightly fitted. However, in other case try to buy those which sits nicely and will not let go the moisture and nutrients of the food.
The material also matters like, if you have glass lids, you will be able to keep an eye on the cooking food. Glass lids get smoggy in any case. They can be lightly weighted if compared to metal lids. That can cause a little unbalance over high heat, so prefer metal ones if you want stable lids.
Quality Construction of The Material:
The durability and long-lasting capability of the cookware come from the construction and quality of the material. Cast iron, copper, stainless steel, aluminum, and hard anodized cookware are great, and you can choose them according to your preference or cooktop type.
Just beware of the reactive metals which can be harmful to the food cooked or stored inside the pans.
Non-Stick Quality:
Nonstick material has become the most convenient option for today’s cooking. Non-stick pans are affordable and offer healthy cooking. They require less oil for making food and are easy to clean.
Heat Distribution:
For even and effective heat distribution, always choose the cookware that has low and high heat conductors. That makes it hybrid cookware that evenly distributes heat to all parts of the pan.
Maintenance of The Product:
Good quality cookware lasts long and will be easy to maintain. Go for the ones which are resistant to corrosion, rust, and stains.
The design also matters, as simple ones are more convenient and work great for rough usage. However, delicate cookware is for occasional purpose.
Material which is good heat conductors, and which comes with the property of easy cleaning and maintenance is good.
Buy the one which fits best to your needs and offers excellent features at an affordable price.
What is the best cookware set under $200?
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Cookware Set. Cuisinart has outdone themselves again by making the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Cookware Set.
This cookware set is versatile, durable, and functional all while maintaining an affordable price of $135.99 on Amazon.
Enjoy your favorite foods with efficient and low-fat cooking that will make you wonder how you ever cooked without this kitchen essential.
Whether it’s crispy toast, a healthy stirfry, or fluffy pancakes for breakfast – Cuisinart can help turn everyday meals into panfuls of culinary perfection.
What is the best nonstick cookware set under $200?
After researching T-fal Professional Nonstick Cookware Set, we can safely say that T-fal Professional is the best nonstick cookware set under $200.
T-fal Professional Nonstick Cookware is for the chef who takes their passion seriously. The 12 piece set includes pots and pans made of long-lasting, durable materials that can withstand high temperatures without warping; nonstick surfaces that are easy to clean; riveted handles for an ergonomic grip; and vents on lids to let moisture escape.
T-fal Professional nonstick cookware set is a must-have in any modern kitchen!
Is buying expensive cookware set worth it?
To answer this question, we need to look into the Pros n Cons of buying expensive and cheap cookware sets.
If you’re on the lookout for a new cookware set, whether it’s stainless steel or nonstick, there is every chance that the price tag will be your first consideration. And it’s no wonder because modern cookware sets are super expensive.
But is it worth spending so much money on a set of pots and pans? Let’s find out.
You have probably heard that the best cookware sets are usually the most expensive ones. And while this statement is not quite true, let’s face it, there are good reasons to spend more money on cookware.
Expensive Cookware Set – Pros n Cons:
Materials:
Expensive pots are usually made from long-lasting materials that won’t release harmful substances into your food. And even if they do, reputable manufacturers take care of it by using special PFOA-free coatings and other means.
No. of Pieces:
You’re also likely to get more pieces in a set with expensive cookware. However, this comes at a price because more pieces usually mean extended cleaning time and more places on which bacteria can accumulate so you have to be very careful how you wash the pans.
Price:
Price alone should not be a reason for buying cookware but it is a good indicator of quality.
Generally speaking, if a cookware set is expensive, it is most likely to be of high quality.
Cheap Cookware Set – Pros n Cons:
On the other hand, there are also good reasons to stick with cheap sets.
Safety:
The first, and probably the most important one is your safety. Cheap pots and pans are usually not made from high-quality materials that ensure the healthiness of food or even safety of use.
Budget:
Another obvious reason is your budget. You can’t afford an expensive cooking utensil set so… what do you do? Buy a cheap one!
But if you have a limited budget, there are other things to consider.
Usage:
You would probably want to use your pots and pans every day so you need something reliable with an affordable price tag.
According to many reviews, cheap cookware sets are not worth it because they don’t last long. They wear out easily so the coating chips or peels off.
Quality:
Using a cheap non-stick frying pan may become a disaster because the coating can release toxic particles when exposed to high temperatures or even normal use.
If you want to be sure the set is worth your money, there’s one thing you can do:
Look for reviews and opinions of users who have already bought such an item.
If the set has a lot of positive feedback, you can be sure that it is a good buy.
Don’t forget that not all cheap products are bad so if you stick with reputable brands, you should be fine.
Conclusion:
In the end, the choice is up to you but carefully thinking over the pros and cons of expensive cookware sets might help to make a better decision.
How much should I spend on a set of cookware?
A good set of cookware will make life in the kitchen much easier. However, if you’ve ever browsed through something like Amazon’s Cookware section, you probably noticed that there are thousands of options out there, all at different price points.
How do you know how much to spend on a cookware set? Will it be sub-par if you buy the cheaper one, or will you blow all your money on something that’s too nice to use?
This article aims to answer this question. We’ll go over different price points for various sets of cookware, and if possible quote some reviews from people who have bought them. After reading everything here in one place, you should have a good idea of how much you should spend on a set of cookware.
Let’s get started by discussing what makes up a great cooking set, then we’ll discuss the different price points for each type.
Looking at various sets of cookware, you might start to realize that there are some things they have in common:
- Lids
- Cooking surfaces
- Handles
If you’re buying a non-stick set of cookware, the pans may also feature this coating. This is not too different from buying other types of utensils, so it makes sense to look for these features when shopping.
Lids:
A lid keeps things contained in one pan or pot, rather than having to transfer it into another.
Cooking Surface:
The cooking surface is the material that’s going to be in contact with your food. The cooking surface can be made of…
- Stainless Steel
- Nonstick Coated
Stainless steel:
Stainless steel cooking surface is wonderful for simmering and cooking acidic foods. Cooking with stainless steel is easy, as the metal transfers heat quickly to whatever you’re cooking. If you use a stainless steel pot or pan on a high heat burner, the food may burn–however, if you have a gas stove this shouldn’t pose too much of an issue since it’s designed to retain heat. On an electric stove, it can cause problems as the metal won’t transfer heat to your food as well and cook it evenly.
Nonstick coated:
Nonstick-coated cooking surfaces are best for foods that don’t need to simmer or cook for too long. This type of cooking surface is great because it won’t leave any kind of residue on the food you’re cooking, and clean-up will be pretty easy.
Handle:
Handle makes it easier for you to hold the pan in one hand while you’re stirring with the other.
The three main types of cookware are
- Stainless steel
- Non-stick
- Cast iron
Stainless steel:
Stainless steel cookware is the most common type of cookware out there. People like stainless steel because it’s durable and easy to clean (you can put them in the dishwasher). The handles can get a little hot when cooking but it’s not a problem–most of the time people use oven mitts or pot holders to move their cookware around anyway. Also, stainless steel is mostly compatible with induction cooktops–check your instruction manual before purchasing if you have an induction stove.
Non-stick:
Nonstick cookware is better for eggs, pancakes, and anything else you might want to slide off the pan. The downside of non-stick pans is that you can’t put them in the dishwasher, and they can get scratched during use. You should be careful not to use metal utensils with non-stick pans too, as you could tear up the coating and cause problems.
Cast Iron:
Cast iron cookware is very durable–you can drop it without much fear of breaking it. The problem is that they can be a little heavy, and they’re slow to heat up. This type of cookware is great for searing and browning meat though, so it’s perfect if you want that nice golden color on your steaks or burgers.
Price Points:
Now that we know what makes up a great cookware set, let’s explore the different price points for each type.
Since most people want to find the best value for their money, this will help narrow down your decision-making process.
Stainless Steel:
If you’re looking for a value set, the best bet is to look for a 6-piece set that usually comes with 1 saucepan and lid, 1 saute pan and lid, and 2 skillets. If you’re watching your budget too, we would recommend going with an aluminum core set.
This will make the cookware lighter, yet still durable. Just make sure to look for a tri-ply set if you want all the pieces to match in quality.
Another option is to find a 4 or 5-piece set that consists of 1 saucepan and lid, 1 saute pan with lid and two skillets.
Non-stick:
A value set is best for non-stick cookware too. Look for an 8-piece set that includes 1 saucepan and lid, 1 saute pan with lid, 2 skillets, and some utensils.
Look for a hard-anodized aluminum set–it’s just as durable as stainless steel, but it’s lightweight like cast iron.
The only downside of a hard-anodized cookware set is that it’s a little more expensive than traditional non-stick sets.
Cast Iron:
If you’re willing to splurge a little on your cast iron set, we recommend getting a 10-piece set.
This will include 1 saucepan and lid, 1 saute pan with lid, 2 skillets, 2 utensils, and it will also come with some other kitchen essentials that you might find convenient to have on hand after working in the kitchen for hours.
Conclusion:
So to decide how much you should spend on a set of cookware, take a look at your budget and start to narrow down the type of cookware you want.
For value sets, go with stainless steel or hard-anodized aluminum. If you’re watching your budget too, check out the price points for those types of sets first before moving on to non-stick or cast iron.