10 Best Nonstick Cookware Sets in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)
Have you ever felt frustrated having to scrub off burnt food on the bottom of your pans? If you have, definitely get yourself a set of nonstick cookware to make cleaning much easier. A nonstick cookware set can contain various pieces, from skillets, saucepans, stockpots and their lids, to other types of utensils.
If you don't know which nonstick cookware set to go for, don't worry and keep reading. Our list of the 10 best products and buying guide will give you some tips in choosing the right set for your kitchen!
Quick List - Top Nonstick Cookware Sets
T-fal
Best Nonstick Pan Set to Get Started With
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Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- In Collaboration With Executive R&D Chef Jim Quast
- 10 Best Nonstick Cookware Sets Ranking
- No. 1T-fal | Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Cookware Set
- No. 2Lodge | Seasoned Cast Iron｜L5HS3
- No. 3Calphalon | Simply Pots and Pans Set
- No. 4BulbHead | Copper-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set
- No. 5Rachael Ray | Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set
- 5 more products
- Looking for Some Other Kitchen Supplies?
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
In Collaboration With Executive R&D Chef Jim Quast
Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D (research & development) chef that loves everything food-related and the tools both big and small to make those great food memories. He has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun.
With that much experience under his belt, we thought him more than qualified to review our buying guide for accuracy. Read on to see how to choose!
How to Choose Nonstick Cookware Sets
Cookware can be made from different types of materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, or cast iron. So remember to pay attention to the material and choose one that will be easy for you to cook with! Think about the number of pieces in each set as well, since you wouldn't want to find yourself in need of a pot or a pan.
Decide How Many Pieces You Need
A cookware set often contains pots, pans, stockpots, and lids. The number of pieces per set varies, but you should buy a set that is sufficient to help you with your kitchen tasks. So think about what you types of pots and pans you need and choose a set that has them!
If you only cook for yourself and just do basic cooking, a small set with a saucepan, skillet and stockpot can be enough. Trust us, you don't want to buy a lot of pots and pans but then end up trying to find space for them in the cabinet.
Meanwhile, if you cook for a big household and often do various styles of cooking, you will want a cookware set that has more than 10 pieces. Keep in mind that utensils (spatulas for example) and even a recipe book may be counted as pieces of a set.
Consider the Material of the Pieces
The material of a product will determine how easy it is to clean or how well it conducts heat. So pay attention to the material in order to choose a product that meets your needs!
Stainless Steel is Durable and Provides Rapid, Even Heating
Stainless steel is one of the most common cookware materials that you will find in many households. It is compatible with various types of cooking surfaces, including gas ranges and induction cooktops. Furthermore, stainless steel cookware is lightweight and rust-resistant, so it's easy to care for and can last for a long time.
Stainless steel cookware does not react with foods, so you can use it to make some vinegary foods without worrying that any of the metal would get into your foods.
However, foods will stick to 100% stainless steel pots and pans, so make sure that you choose a product that's coated with a nonstick layer.
Aluminum Cookware is Easy to Clean and Conducts Heat Well
Aluminum is durable and conducts heat efficiently. However, it can react with acidic ingredients, which might cause the metal to get into your foods. Choose a product crafted with anodized or hard-anodized aluminum that forms a tough barrier to prevent the metal from oxidation.
Similar to a stainless steel product, aluminum cookware crafted with a nonstick coating that is either ceramic or PTFE-based (Teflon for example) is better.
You may have heard that Teflon-coated pans are unsafe. Teflon used to be made with perfluorooctanoic acid or PFOA, a suspected carcinogen, but quality pans are no longer made with this material.
Keep in mind that nonstick coatings still shouldn't be used over high heat for a long period of time. Otherwise, they're likely to emit toxic fumes which may cause flu-like symptoms.
You should also avoid using metal cooking utensils with nonstick pans to prevent the surface from getting scratched. Refrain from scrubbing too hard or using metal scouring pads when cleaning as well.
Cast Iron Cookware is Durable and Heats Evenly
Cast-iron cookware is durable, heavy-duty, and can retain heat very well. Furthermore, it can withstand high-heat temperatures and distribute heat evenly when cooking, so you can use it for searing, frying, or sauteing. Cast-iron cookware is also oven- and broiler-safe.
However, classic uncoated cast-iron cookware requires you to season and maintain it well. You should also coat the cookware with a layer of oil to maintain the nonstick-ness of the pan. Make sure that you dry an uncoated cast-iron product immediately after washing to prevent rust.
Also, keep in mind that uncoated cast-iron cookware can lose it's natural nonstick surface if put in the dishwasher, so you should only hand-wash it!
If you find taking care of an uncoated cast-iron product to be too much of a hassle, you can opt for enameled cast iron instead. The enameled surface prevents ingredients from getting in contact with the metal, so you can cook acidic foods safely.
However, enamel can chip and crack, so avoid changing the cooking temperatures drastically or heating up the cookware without anything in it to preserve the enamel surface.
Carbon-Steel and Blue Steel is Great for High-Performance Cooking
Carbon-steel cookware is a favorite of professional chefs, since it's durable and conducts heat very well. It can also be used on multiple cooking surfaces, including induction. However, keep in mind that you have to season and maintain the carbon-steel product so that it can form its own nonstick coating.
Try to clean the cookware with wipes or paper towels and avoid washing it with soap. If there is food stuck to the bottom of the pan, you can soak it in hot water and then use a soft sponge to clean.
Additionally, make sure to dry your cookware completely after cleaning to prevent it from rusting. You should also coat the cookware with a layer of oil to help maintain the natural patina.
Copper Nonstick Cookware Offers Excellent Heat Conductivity
Copper nonstick cookware is an aluminum product coated with a copper-infused ceramic nonstick coating. Usually, it transfers heat very well and is great for virtually all cooking styles, from high-heat frying to simmering at low temperatures. Copper nonstick cookware is also visually pleasing and will add some aesthetics to your kitchen!
Keep in mind that the thicker the copper cookware is, the longer it can last. So you might want to pick a heavy-gauge copper cookware set approximately 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick.
Look at the Cookware's Handles
Handles on your cookware can be made from either the same or different materials as the pots and pans. Some products have plastic handles that are easy to clean but should not be used in the oven or near high-heat conditions.
Metal handles can heat up easily, so you might want to get a sleeve or protective mitts to avoid getting burned. However, they are dishwasher-, broiler-, and oven-safe.
Meanwhile, wooden handles won't transfer heat but can warp or crack in hot water. So try to hand-wash them only! You can also find cookware with a cool-touch handle that helps you hold the pot or pan much more easily without getting burned.
Find a Set That You Can Store Easily
Pots, pans, and other kitchen utensils can take up a lot of space in your kitchen. To make it easier for you to store things, you can opt for stackable pots and pans.
However, make sure that they won't scratch when you stack them all together. Also, if you want to hang your pots and pans up, look for handles with holes in them.
10 Best Nonstick Cookware Sets Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Cookware Set | | Best Nonstick Pan Set to Get Started With | |
2 | Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron｜L5HS3 | | Best Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware | |
3 | Calphalon Simply Pots and Pans Set | | Best Stackable Set to Save Cabinet Space | |
4 | BulbHead Copper-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set | | Best Ceramic-Coated Set With a Steamer | |
5 | Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set | | Best Cookware With Colorful Exteriors and Stay-Cool Handles | |
6 | Hexclad Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set | | Best Stainless Steel Nonstick Cookware for Serious Cooks | |
7 | All-Clad Cast Iron Cookware Set｜HA108AZ | | Best Nonstick Set for Induction Stoves | |
8 | T-fal 10-Piece Wok Set ｜L61491 | | Best Efficient Set for Small Kitchens | |
9 | Stone and Beam Kitchen Cookware Set | | Best Comprehensive Nonstick Set to Meet All Your Cooking Needs | |
10 | Caraway Nonstick Cookware Set | | Best Stylish Ceramic Set With Its Own Storage System |
T-falUltimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Cookware Set
Best Nonstick Pan Set to Get Started With
Pros:
- The Ultimate series has a coating designed to withstand metal utensils
- Red dot in middle tells you when pan is preheated
- Glass lids allow you to see cooking progress
- Vents on lids let steam escape
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven-safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons:
- Frying pans may have an unbalanced weight distribution
Made from hard-anodized aluminum, this cookware can heat very quickly. The titanium-reinforced nonstick interior is safe to use with metal utensils; however, read the instructions before doing so. Each pot and pan has a Thermo-Spot indicator that turns red when it is properly preheated.
Some users complained that the pans were too light and could tip over due to the heavier handle if empty. However, most say they've seen no wear in their pans even after years of use.
LodgeSeasoned Cast Iron ｜ L5HS3
Best Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware
Pros:
- Perfect for high-heat cooking and oven use
- Can also use on the grill or over a campfire
- Induction-compatible
- Pre-seasoned and ready to cook with
Cons:
- Only one lid for all the larger pots to share
- No small saucepans in this set
- Cast-iron cookware is inherently heavy and requires regular maintenance
When it comes to heat retention, not many materials can surpass cast iron. Cast-iron cookware can also tolerate high temperatures, and is ideal for cooking techniques like searing, frying, or baking. This set is pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil to make it more nonstick.
Some reviewers noted that the handles could get really hot, so you might want to get protective covers for them. On the other hand, reviewers loved that the cookware was durable and could disperse heat evenly and consistently.
CalphalonSimply Pots and Pans Set
Best Stackable Set to Save Cabinet Space
- Durable coating allows use of metal utensils
- Flat glass lids let you stack the whole set in any order
- When nested, pots won't rub or damage each other
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven-safe up to 450 Fahrenheit
Cons:
- Lids do not have steam vents
This set from Calphalon is their Premier Space-Saving line, and it's designed with usability in mind. Any pots with the same diameter can nestle inside each other without fear of scratches, or they can be stacked on their flat lids. They all feature the MineralShield coating, which claims to be safe for use with metal utensils.
Some reviewers pointed out that the lids tend to drip water from condensation when you take them off the pots, but most are impressed with how thoughtful the space-saving design is. They love the extra storage room it gives them and find the nonstick coating durable, too.
BulbHeadCopper-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set
Best Ceramic-Coated Set With a Steamer
Pros:
- Oven-safe up to 500 degrees
- Dishwasher-safe
- Can use with metal utensils
- Clear glass lids with steam vents
- Comes with steamer insert
Cons:
- Vague information about what they're made of
- Unclear if all pieces work with induction stovetops
- Needs occasional seasoning to maintain its nonstick property
This set includes all the basics, plus a steamer insert for cooking vegetables or steamed dumplings. The nonstick coating on this set is made of ceramic infused with copper. You should season the cookware before first use, as per the instructions, and repeat occasionally for optimal performance.
Many reviewers loved that the cookware heated quickly and evenly. However, one reviewer said that because the bottoms of the pans have a raised logo, they don't sit flat on glass top stoves. Most home cooks say they like how they look and that they're easy to clean.
Rachael Ray Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set
Best Cookware With Colorful Exteriors and Stay-Cool Handles
Pros:
- Over a half dozen colors available to match any decor
- Oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
- Both lids and pots have stay-cool, nonslip rubberized handles
- Clear glass lids to see cooking progress
Cons:
- Lids don't have steam vents
Constructed of aluminum with enameled porcelain exteriors, these nonstick pots and pans provide you with even, quick heating. The cookware comes in vibrant colors like teal, yellow, red, or purple, or earthy choices like gray, orange and brown.
Some reviewers complained that the pots and pans were small or that their lids didn't fit tightly. But most say they're well-made and beautiful. Many reviewers commented that the cookware was lightweight, functional, and easy to clean.
HexcladCeramic Nonstick Cookware Set
Best Stainless Steel Nonstick Cookware for Serious Cooks
- Unique surface gives the cooking benefits of stainless steel with the nonstick quality of ceramic
- Compatible with all stovetops
- Oven-safe to 500 degrees
- Can be cleaned using scouring pads if necessary
- Safe to use metal utensils
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Needs to be seasoned before first use
- May have to get used to how they heat up, reviewers say
These pots have a laser-applied ceramic interior which doesn't entirely cover the stainless steel of the body. This allows for excellent heat distribution while also providing you a nonstick surface. The bottoms sit flat even on glass stovetops, but have no sharp corners, so they cook evenly and clean up easily.
Reviewers overall love them. Some mention that they heat differently than their old pots, for example getting hot faster and holding a boil better, so you can expect a learning curve at first. But they say they're scratch-proof, well-constructed, and beautiful to look at, too.
All-CladCast Iron Cookware Set ｜ HA108AZ
Best Nonstick Set for Induction Stoves
- Stainless steel bases make all the pots induction-ready
- Oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Can be used under a broiler
- Clear glass lids to see cooking progress
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Lids do not have steam vents
- None of the lids fit the frying pans perfectly
If you have an induction stove but like the benefits of hard-anodized aluminum, consider this set from All-Clad. With two saucepans, a Dutch oven and two frying pans, it will cover the basic cooking needs for an average household.
A few reviewers mention that they found the handles awkward and too narrow to get a strong grip on. But many say they're easy to clean, and they like that they're a bit on the heavy side for aluminum, since it makes them feel stable.
Best Efficient Set for Small Kitchens
- One handle works for all the pots and is easily moved around
- Lids have handles that collapse flat
- Comes with two covers so you can store leftovers right in the pot
Cons:
- Lids and covers do not fit frying pans
- Care instructions are in Japanese; you may need to search online for English
The Ingenio line from T-fal is made for their Japanese and European markets. It features a handle that can be moved from one pot or pan to another, making for compact, stacking storage of all the pieces when you're done cooking. Although, some of the pots may end up in your fridge with your leftovers, since they come with covers that allow you to do so.
The main complaint from American consumers is that the set is hard to find in the US! They like how little space everything takes up in their cabinet, and say the covers to keep food in the refrigerator are convenient, too. Buyers with RVs say they're a great investment.
Best Comprehensive Nonstick Set to Meet All Your Cooking Needs
Pros:
- Large variety of pieces perfect for cooking up a storm
- Clear glass lids with steam vents
- Comes with steamer insert
Cons:
- Unclear if they can be used in the oven or on induction stoves
Made of hard-anodized aluminum, this cookware set comes with three saucepans, a Dutch oven, three frying pans, a sauté pan, a griddle, and even a steamer insert, plus six lids. If you have a large household or like to cook a lot of different dishes at once, this set has you covered.
Some reviewers complained that the lid and pan handles get really hot. Still, many reviewers loved that the set was easy to clean and could heat things up quickly and evenly. Many further commented that the pans had good weight to them.
CarawayNonstick Cookware Set
Best Stylish Ceramic Set With Its Own Storage System
- Comes with canvas hanger for lid storage and plastic dividers for the pans
- Oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit
- Induction-ready
- Vented lids
Cons:
- Reviewers say the handles get hot
- Some complain about the coating chipping
This set of two frying pans and two saucepans comes with a way to organize them in your cabinet. The lids can be hung in their canvas sleeve on a cabinet door, while the pots have a modular rack that connects with magnets. The set itself is made with colorful ceramic coatings and sleek steel handles.
Reviewers point out that those handles do get hot when cooking, so keep a potholder nearby. But many mention how their food cooks evenly and browns well, and say they're very nonstick. They also like how they can use them to bake bread in the oven.
Looking for Some Other Kitchen Supplies?
If you're looking for some other kitchen supplies, we have some suggestions for tools to help make your cooking a bit more easy!
Top 5 Nonstick Cookware Sets
No. 1: T-fal｜Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12 Piece Cookware Set
No. 2: Lodge｜Seasoned Cast Iron｜L5HS3
No. 3: Calphalon｜Simply Pots and Pans Set
No. 4: BulbHead｜Copper-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set
No. 5: Rachael Ray ｜Cucina Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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