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- 10 Best Mixing Bowls in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)
10 Best Mixing Bowls in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)
No kitchen can function optimally without a proper set of mixing bowls. Mixing bowls are great for marinating meat, tossing a salad, prepping batter, or storing leftovers. But with so many materials and sizes to choose from, it can be confusing which one goes well with a particular task on hand.
To help you find bowls that will suit your needs, we've put together a list of our 10 favorite options. We highly recommend the Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls With Lids from Pyrex. These versatile bowls suit most kitchen needs and are safe for all appliances. Plus, they come with color-coordinated lids. We've also included a buying guide that will assist you in your search, with commentary from chef Danilo Specchiulli!
Danilo is an Italian chef who has grown up cooking traditional dishes under his nonna and mamma's tutelage. He has also worked in Italian restaurants in various countries such as Australia and Japan. The skills he has acquired in a home and professional kitchen have enabled him to preserve and expound on Italian cuisine while dabbling in recipes from other cultures.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
How to Choose a Mixing Bowl - Buying Guide
Mixing bowls are essential kitchen tools. However, certain materials work better for particular kitchen tasks. Here are some factors to consider to find the perfect mixing bowl for your needs!
Choose a Material Based on Your Needs
Mixing bowls are obviously used for mixing, but they can also be used for food prep and serving! Be sure to consider what kinds of cooking you typically do before you make a purchase.
Glass for Hot, Cold, and Microwavable Ingredients
Glass may shatter when dropped from substantial heights, but it's great for kitchen use thanks to its non-reactive properties. This means you can be dealing with tomato sauce or oily ingredients and the ingredients won't stick, stain, or react with the bowl.
Glass bowls are also helpful since they are clear. This makes it easier to see if your ingredients are completely mixed! If you use bowls for storing leftovers, clear glass also makes it easy to spot which bowl contains which food.
Glass mixing bowls are typically on the heavy side. This makes them less likely to slip around the counter as you mix! They can also be easier to handle if you're clumsy and tend to bump your tools as you cook.
Glass bowls' temperature-resistant properties allow you to heat your food in the microwave or oven or store your leftovers in the fridge. We also recommend double-checking the product description to confirm that a particular option is safe to use in the oven, microwave, freezer, fridge, and dishwasher.
Just make sure to be careful taking glass bowls from one extreme temperature to another to avoid cracks from thermal shock. However, tempered glass is more durable since it's been treated to become more temperature- and shatter-resistant. It breaks into clumps of glass instead of dangerous shards when broken, too.
Glass mixing bowls are great for baking due to their versatility. Need to melt butter? You can easily pop them in the microwave. This feature is perhaps the main advantage glass has over stainless steel; hence you see pastry chefs work with glass mixing bowls.
For home kitchens, however, you might also be concerned about aesthetics. Glass mixing bowls have the upper hand, arguably, over the industrial finish of stainless steel ones.
People also have preferences for the weight of their kitchen tools. You might like something heavy, with a good feel and less risk of toppling over, including something that allows you to see the contents. If so, then glass is for you.
Stainless Steel for a Lightweight and Virtually Unbreakable Option
When it comes to durability, you can't go wrong with stainless steel. No matter how many times you drop a stainless steel bowl, it will not break. It can also be used as a double boiler, for ice baths, and more.
Poor quality stainless steel bowls are known to scratch and dent easily, and they may not be made from pure stainless steel. Check the reviews to see if it holds up to wear and tear over time. You can also look for the type of stainless steel. For decent durability, look for grade 304 stainless steel or higher.
Metal is a conductor of heat so take caution when you're mixing hot ingredients. Needless to say, stainless steel is not microwave-safe. However, it is typically safe to use in the oven.
Stainless steel won't stain or absorb orders, and it's also rust-resistant. However, it can rust or become discolored in certain conditions, so we recommend drying it immediately after washing and don't clean it with steel wool.
Stainless steel is also the best metal option for working with acidic ingredients. Metals like copper and aluminum are reactive, so they will leave a metallic taste in your food. If you often cook with vinegar, citrus, or tomatoes, consider an option made of stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Most professional kitchens are loaded with stainless steel mixing bowls of all sizes. I love this material because it's effortless to work with and can withstand multiple drops and banging in a hectic kitchen. You can stack them without risk of cracking, giving you a less cluttered cupboard or counter.
If you’re going for this material, look for bowls with a curved lip on the edges, as this gives you a better grip and control when handling the lightweight bowl. Also, be sure to choose stainless steel and not other metals as the latter can react with acidic ingredients or scratch faster when used with a whisk.
Ceramic for Functionality and Serving
Ceramic mixing bowls are great for their versatility. You can use them as regular mixing bowls, pop them in the oven or microwave, or transfer them straight to the table as a serving bowl. However, if you see metallic decorative touches, make sure to check the product description to confirm that it's safe for the microwave and oven.
Ceramic mixing bowls are often designed in bright colors or come with grooves and accents, making them decorative pieces on their own. However, they are heavy and shatter when dropped, so extra caution is advised. But, like glass, their heavier weight makes them less likely to slip around on the counter.
Poor quality ceramic bowls also tend to chip easily, especially when used with a hand mixer. If you're concerned about chips, avoid using metal whisks or spoons. Instead, consider silicone whisks, wooden spoons, and the like.
If you’re looking for a truly versatile and functional mixing bowl, I highly recommend ceramic ones because you can place them virtually anywhere, like the dishwasher, microwave, and oven. Invest in a set of high-quality ceramic mixing bowls, and you also get serving bowls. You can transfer your food from the kitchen to the table in one go.
The only downside of these bowls is their weight and the chance of chipping and breaking. They also don’t do well with hand mixers. If you already have a trusty ceramic mixing bowl that has acquired deep stains, you can use baking soda to address the issue. To maintain your ceramic mixing bowls, use only soft detergent and steer clear from chlorine bleach, as this can ruin the protective glaze.
Plastic is Lightweight and Easy to Transport
Plastic is your go-to mixing bowl choice if you're after something that's easy to carry and handle. The material is also oftentimes microwave-, dishwasher-, and freezer-safe. Since plastic is lightweight, it's a great option for kids as well.
However, plastic tends to get stained when used with ingredients like tomatoes or retain odors. It also had a tendency to get greasy, so you may have to degrease it from time to time. Plastic has low-temperature resistance, leading to melting. Depending on the quality of plastic, it may also scratch or warp over time.
We recommend going for a thick plastic mixing bowl with a non-slip bottom, spout, or easy-carry handle to minimize accidents during use. Since plastic is easy to mold, many options have these useful features!
Copper for Whipping Up Egg Whites and Meringues
Copper is a sturdy material with unique properties that make it great for whisking egg whites and making meringue. As you mix, copper ions from the bowl combine with a protein in the egg white called conalbumin. This bond makes the egg whites less likely to deflate, get gritty, or dry out, giving you stiff, stable peaks.
Copper is a reactive metal, so it may leave a metallic taste in your food. This is especially true for acidic ingredients! It may also change the color of fresh greens. So, we recommend getting a copper mixing bowl for making sweets rather than cooking savory dishes. However, mashed potatoes are an exception!
To keep your bowl in the best shape, handwash it and dry it right away to avoid discoloration. Some bowls are coated with copper and have a different inner metal material, so you may want to use silicone whisks and spoons to avoid scratching off the coating.
Look for Tall Sides for Mess-Free Mixing
Mixing bowls come in various shapes and sizes. We generally recommend bowls with taller sides to minimize splashing, especially if you're using an electric mixer or are mixing something liquidy. A deep bowl also lets your dough rest or rise without getting too dry.
However, shorter people may want a shallower bowl. Otherwise, you may struggle to mix ingredients comfortably!
Keep an Eye Out for Useful Features Like Non-Slip Bottoms, Measurement Markings, and More
Some bowls have additional features, such as measurement markings, a flat bottom for stability, or a non-slip rubber bottom. Some mixing bowls also come with a spout for easy pouring of wet ingredients.
If you often use handheld or electric mixers, we recommend options with a non-slip bottom with a handle or rimmed edge for better grip. Handles, especially non-slip ones, also help you transport the bowl, making it easy to take it out of the oven or slide it into the fridge. These features can help kids keep a firm grasp on the bowl, as well!
If you will be storing your mixtures or leaving them to rest overnight, look for bowls with lids. Lids also make it easy to keep leftovers fresh!
Buy a Set When in Doubt
One mixing bowl often isn't enough for most home cooks or bakers. We recommend getting a nesting set to minimize storage space. These sets can include bowls that are one size or several sizes. If you cook a variety of dishes, getting a set with multiple sizes may be more practical.
Plastic or ceramic sets may include bowls with different colors, making it easy to color-code your dishes or designate bowls for specific tasks. This is particularly helpful if you need to be mindful of allergies in the kitchen! For example, it will be easier to remember which bowl of cookie dough is peanut-free.
Are mixing bowl sets worth it? Well, if you love to cook and enjoy trying out new recipes from savory to sweet ones, chances are you'll need multiple mixing bowls. Otherwise, you will end up with flour in a glass, sugar in a random bowl, eggs on a plate, and so on.
It’s no doubt that mixing bowls are a kitchen essential that doesn’t get enough credit. Every time I cook in a new kitchen, the number of bowls available usually makes or breaks the efficiency of my experience. You can even treat it like a collection, where you have a gorgeous wooden bowl for Caesar salads, ceramic ones for parties, and a couple of stainless steel bowls for heavy-duty prepping.
10 Best Mixing Bowls
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Pyrex | | Best Set That's Safe for All Appliances | |
2 | OXO White/Black Set | | Best for Using With a Handheld or Electric Mixer | |
3 | OXO Grey/Blue Set | | Best for Maintaining the Temperature of Ingredients | |
4 | Fitzroy and Fox Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls with Lids｜Set of 5, Black | | Best Set for Those Who Cook and Bake Often | |
5 | Duralex 10 Piece Set | | Best for Complex Recipes and Mise En Place | |
6 | FineDine Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls | | Best Set for Casual Home Cooks | |
7 | Dowan Ceramic Mixing Bowls | | Best Stylish Mixing Bowl Set for Cooking or Serving | |
8 | RSVP International | | Best for Mixing Large Batches or Prepping Big Meals | |
9 | Anchor Hocking Crystal Clear Glass | | Best Mixing Bowl for Bakers | |
10 | Mauviel 4.9-Qt. | | Best Bowl for Beating Egg Whites |
Best Set That's Safe for All Appliances
Pros:
- Glass bowls are safe for the freezer, fridge, microwave, oven, and dishwasher
- Glass won't absorb stains or odors
- Comes with microwave-safe color-coded lids with size markings
- Four bowls nest for easy storage
Cons:
- Bowls are on the shallower side, which may mean more mess
If you're looking for a reliable set that you don't have to maintain or worry about damaging, this is for you. Unlike most mixing bowls, these are safe for all appliances, including the oven and dishwasher. The color-coded lids make it easy to find the size you need, too.
These bowls are on the shallower side, so they may be more prone to splatters. However, most reviewers rave about them, saying they hold up well and are a breeze to clean. They also like that the lids fit snugly. They confirm that these are great for using across appliances, saying they can take them from the fridge to the microwave.
Best for Using With a Handheld or Electric Mixer
Pros:
- Three bowls nest for easy storage
- Non-slip handle and base
- Spout for easier pouring
- Made of dishwasher-safe plastic
Cons:
- Not microwave safe
This set includes three nesting plastic bowls, each with a large non-slip handle and a non-slip base. So, you won't have to worry about these bowls skidding around the counter when you're using a mixer! Plus, each has a spout for easier pouring of liquidy batters.
There are a few instances of the non-slip bottoms leaving black marks on bowls or countertops. However, these bowls are widely praised for their ability to stay put on countertops! Reviewers also appreciate that they are deep and easy to clean. They especially love using them for baking bread and cakes.
OXO Grey/Blue Set
Best for Maintaining the Temperature of Ingredients
Pros:
- Stainless steel interiors won't absorb stains or odors
- Insulated plastic exterior prevents hands from getting cold and keeps ingredients at temperature
- Three bowls nest for easy storage
- Non-slip plastic bases
Cons:
- Reports of them not being dishwasher-safe as advertised
These bowls mix the durability of stainless steel with the comfort of plastic. The plastic exterior insulates the bowls, helping to keep warm food warm and cold food cold. Plus, it prevents your hands from getting hot or cold!
There are some reports that the bowls aren't dishwasher-safe as advertised, saying that water gets inside the non-slip bottom. Overall, however, reviewers love the functionality and quality construction of these bowls! They confirm that they keep their hands from getting cold and hold up well to continued use.
Fitzroy and FoxStainless Steel Mixing Bowls with Lids ｜ Set of 5, Black
Best Set for Those Who Cook and Bake Often
Pros:
- Made of durable stainless steel that won't absorb odors or stains
- Five bowls nest for easy storage
- Each bowl has a lid, non-slip bottom, and inner measurement markings
- The bowls are dishwasher-safe, and the lids can go on the top rack
Cons:
- Lids aren't airtight
These durable stainless steel mixing bowls have lids to keep your ingredients or leftovers fresh. Plus, each bowl has a non-slip bottom and volume markings in quarts and liters for easier mixing. This set includes five sizes, making it ideal for those who do a lot of cooking and baking.
According to a few reviewers, the lids don't seal tightly over the bowls, especially in the fridge. However, many others like their sturdy construction and non-slip bottom, saying they're a pleasure to use. They also appreciate the sleek look of these bowls, including the different color lid options.
Best for Complex Recipes and Mise En Place
Pros:
- Sizes ranging from one ounce to three-and-a-half quarts
- 10 bowls nest for easy storage
- Glass won't stain or absorb odors
- Safe for microwave and dishwasher
Cons:
- Smaller sizes may not be useful for those that don't cook often
Do you enjoy whipping up complex dishes? This set of mixing bowls is perfect for avid home chefs or those that like to stay organized while cooking! You can use the smaller sizes for mise en place (prep work), spices, or sauces, while the larger sizes are ideal for batter or dough.
There are some concerns on Amazon about fake products, so we've included a link to the official manufacture site as well. Others also warn that they may shatter due to temperature shock. Overall, though, they love the variety of sizes in this set! Reviewers especially enjoy using these for food prep, saying it's helpful to organize their ingredients.
FineDineStainless Steel Mixing Bowls
Best Set for Casual Home Cooks
Pros:
- A range of sizes that cover most kitchen tasks
- Measurements of each bowl are engraved on the bottom
- Made of dishwasher-safe stainless steel
- Nests for easy storage
Cons:
- Lightweight construction means they may slip around
- Thin metal isn't the most durable
This set includes sizes from three-quarters of a quart up to eight quarts, and each bowl has the size etched in the bottom. Since these bowls are lightweight, they won't hold up to heavy wear and tear. However, they are an excellent choice for casual home cooks that want to grab one set of bowls for any kitchen task.
There are some reports that these bowls are flimsy and may rust, so they may not be the best choice for heavy use. However, many users like that they are easy to clean and store. They note that this is a great all-around set for the average home cook due to the variety of sizes.
DowanCeramic Mixing Bowls
Best Stylish Mixing Bowl Set for Cooking or Serving
Pros:
- Decorative enough for serving
- Three bowls nest for easier storage
- Made of heavy ceramic that doesn't stain
- Can be used in the oven, microwave, and dishwasher
Cons:
- Reports of some sizes being smaller than advertised
This set includes three mixing bowls on the smaller side. They have a classic look and a stylish blue outer coating, making them ideal for serving. In addition, the ceramic material makes these bowls safe to use in the oven, microwave, and dishwasher.
There are some reports that the largest bowl is smaller than advertised. Others note issues with fracture, so these may not be the best bowls for using with an electric mixer. Otherwise, these bowls are praised for being heavyweight, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing enough to display. They also say that they are easy to clean.
RSVP International
Best for Mixing Large Batches or Prepping Big Meals
Pros:
- Made of durable stainless steel that won't stain or absorb odors
- Extra-large 12-quart capacity can handle the biggest batches
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Large size and deep walls may be cumbersome for shorter people
Do you often cook in large amounts? This 12-quart mixing bowl is the largest on our list, and it can tackle big batches of batter or dough. Plus, it's made of dishwasher-safe stainless steel, making cleanup a breeze.
There seems to be a sticker inside the bowl that can be a pain to remove. Otherwise, reviewers love how large and deep this bowl is, saying it's handy to have in the kitchen. They use it for mixing dough, large salads, or even marinating meat. Plus, they confirm that it's easy to clean.
Best Mixing Bowl for Bakers
Pros:
- Glass won't absorb stains or odors
- Measurement markings, handle, and spout are ideal for batter
- Dishwasher-safe and made in the USA
Cons:
- Unique shape may not be practical for all mixing needs
- Two-quart size may be too small for large batches
If you love to bake, this unique mixing bowl may be for you! It has several handy features that make it perfect for mixing batter, including a handle, spout, and measurement markings. If you have leftover batter, pop the lid on and stick it in the fridge.
Some reviewers got bowls with a sharp edge on the handle. However, the vast majority love its unique design and thick glass! They also appreciate the extra features, especially the measurement markings. They say it's handy for making pancakes!
Mauviel4.9-Qt.
Best Bowl for Beating Egg Whites
Pros:
- Copper material helps stabilize and fluff egg whites
- Thumb ring for an easier hold
- Made from an established family brand in France known for high-quality cookware
Cons:
- Cannot be used with certain ingredients
- Should not be used in the dishwasher
If you often make meringues, a copper bowl is a must. This option is from a family company in France known for its cookware. The copper bowl prevents egg whites from collapsing. Plus, this option has a brass thumb ring to make it easier to hold. However, make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on proper use and care.
A few reviewers report scuffs on the metal. Overall, this bowl is praised for its high-quality craftsmanship and ability to aid in whipping egg whites. They also love the look of this bowl, saying it's beautiful and makes a great gift. They confirm that it's a piece that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may still have a few lingering questions about mixing bowls. We've researched the answers to some commonly asked questions, so hopefully, you'll find your answer here!
What size mixing bowls do I need?
Mixing bowl sizes are usually measured by capacity in cups or quarts, but you will usually see the capacity in quarts. Most bowls range from one to 10 quarts. One quart is small enough for separating egg whites and yolks, while 10 quarts is ideal for feeding big groups of people.
For the average person, a larger bowl that's six to eight quarts will be the most versatile. However, getting a set of bowls with several sizes will ensure that you always have the bowl you need for different tasks! Consider a nesting set with four sizes of bowls, such as two, four, six, and eight quarts.
How many mixing bowls do I need?
If you rarely cook, two mixing bowls may suffice. If you only have one, you won't have another option if one is dirty or storing leftovers. However, we generally recommend three to four mixing bowls. You may need more than one bowl to cook a meal or create more complex recipes!
If you love to cook or bake, consider getting four or more bowls. More bowls make it easier to cook a lot of food, especially if you want to designate bowls for specific uses or foods. Multiple bowls also make it easier to bake several things at once, such as a few different types of batter and frosting for cookies, cupcakes, and more.
Can metal mixing bowls go in the dishwasher?
Stainless steel mixing bowls are ok to go in the dishwasher, especially if they are higher-grade. However, other metals should be hand-washed. Aluminum can get discolored in the dishwasher, and copper may tarnish. In general, hand-washing is the best way to keep any cookware in the best shape!
Regardless of the material, check the customer reviews to confirm how bowls hold up in the dishwasher. Even if a product is listed as dishwasher-safe, reviewers will share if metal discolors, ceramic chips, or plastic warps.
More Useful Kitchen Essentials
To cook like a pro, it's going to take more than just a great mixing bowl. Check out some of our favorite kitchen essentials below!
Amazon's Best Selling Mixing Bowls
Looking for more great mixing bowls to take into consideration? Check out the link below for more!
Top 5 Mixing Bowls
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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- Cooking utensils
- 10 Best Mixing Bowls in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)
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