Updated on October 7, 2022
Have you been on the hunt for new stainless steel cookware and haven’t been able to find the right set? You are in luck! We’re going to take a closer look at 10 of the best stainless steel cookware sets so you can find the perfect one for your kitchen.
Whether you need a small set or you want a generous 17-piece set, we’ve got a little bit of something for everyone. So, take your time and browse the list of our favorite SS cookware sets and take a look at our buying guide and FAQ at the end.
In a Hurry? Here Are Our Top 3 Picks
Top 10 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets
Let’s take a closer look at 10 of the best stainless steel cookware sets on the market to avoid buyer’s remorse.
1. All-Clad Brushed Stainless Cookware Set
- Complete 10 piece set includes 8 inch and 10 inch Fry Pans, 1.5 quart and 3...
- Exceptionally Even Heat - D5 is fully bonded to the rim, the unique five-ply...
- Design You Will Love - D5 has an elegant brushed stainless steel finish with...
If you have been searching for some real high quality stainless steel cookware, check out this great set.
All-Clad is one of the most well-known companies around when it comes to professional-quality cookware and kitchen appliances for both home and commercial use. If you buy one of their products, you can take comfort in knowing that it is going to a reliable piece of equipment that will perform well and last a long time.
These American-made pans are some of the best around. If you want a reliable set of cookware that will last a lifetime, this is the cookware set for you. The D5 Stainless collection is made with 5 alternating layers of aluminum and stainless steel. The handles are stainless steel and are meant to stay cool while cooking on the stove.
Here is everything you can expect to see when you open up the box:
- 8” fry pan
- 10” fry pan
- 5qt saucepan with lid
- 3qt saucepan with lid
- 3qt saute pan with lid
- 8qt stockpot with lid
These American-made pans are some of the best around. If you want a reliable set of cookware that will last a lifetime, this is the cookware set for you. The D5 Stainless collection is made with 5 alternating layers of aluminum and stainless steel. The handles are stainless steel and are meant to stay cool while cooking on the stove.
If you want a cookware set that is compatible with your current stove, this set should do the job. It is compatible with all types of stovetops, including induction. You can even go from the stove to the oven with ease since the all-metal construction is oven-safe up to 600°.
Pros:
- 5 layers of metal
- Can be used on an induction cooktop
- Oven and broiler safe up to 600°
Cons:
- Can stain easily
2. Cooks Standard Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 【18/10 Stainless Steel Cookware Set】Includes: one 1-1/2-Quart covered...
- 【Perfect Heat Distribution】Stainless Steel pots and pans with aluminum disc...
- 【Comfortable & Stay-Cool Handle】Riveted stainless steel handles are riveted...
If you have been looking around for a high-quality set of stainless steel pots and pans, check out this great set. The full body and handles of the cookware are made of metal, making these a great choice if you like being able to go from the stove to the oven without having to switch pans.
There are several great perks that come with using the Cooks Standard Classic Cookware Set. This is a 10-piece set, which includes several types of pots and pans, along with lids that fit several of the pieces. You even get a steamer insert with a cover.
This durable cookware set comes with everything you need to make tasty and healthy meals for your family. You’re probably wondering what’s included. Here is everything that is in the box: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid; 3-quart saucepan with lid; 8-inch skillet; 10-inch skillet; 6-quart stockpot with lid; universal steamer insert with lid.
The sturdy construction of this stainless steel cookware set is made with your safety and comfort in mind. The handles are designed to stay cool and keep your hands safe from burns. If you have used stainless steel in the past and grabbed the handle, only to be met with hot metal, then you are going to love this cookware.
Something that makes this cookware even more versatile is all of the surfaces it’s compatible with:
- Gas
- Electric
- Induction
- Glass
- Halogen
- Oven safe up to 500°
Pros:
- Lightweight construction
- Handle stays cool
- Can be used with a variety of cooking methods, including induction stoves and the oven
Cons:
- Does not work on all induction cooktops
3. Duxtop Professional Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- FOOD GRADE STAINLESS STEEL & STURDY: Duxtop stainless steel pots and pans are...
- FAST & EVEN HEATING: Heavy gauge impacted-bonded aluminum encapsulated bottom of...
- FEATURES: Duxtop induction cookware feature a classic straight-sided and...
If you have been looking around for one of the best stainless steel cookware sets, check out this great set from Duxtop. Featuring a whopping 17 pieces, this set is sure to make cooking easier. Not only does it come with pots and pans, but it also comes with 3 kitchen tools so you can stir, flip, and serve your food with ease. Here’s everything you can expect to see when you open up your box: 8” fry pan, 9.5” fry pan, 1.6-quart saucepan with lid, 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, 8.6-quart stockpot with lid, 4.2-quart casserole with lid, 5.5-quart saute pan with helper and lid, 9.5-inch pasta basket and steamer basket, and a 3-piece kitchen toolset.
Each piece of cookware in the set is super versatile and can be used on the stovetop. Not only can you use these pans on traditional cooktops, but you can even use them on infrared, induction, and radiant glass. No matter what type of stove you have, these would be a great choice. They are even oven safe up to 550°! If you want to start something on the stove and finish it in the oven, that is no problem.
Pros:
- 18/10 commercial grade aluminum
- Can be used on all stove types
- Dishwasher safe, freezer safe, and oven safe up to 550°
Cons:
- Only shows metric measurements on the pans
4. T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- Set includes: 8 inches fry pan, 10.5 inches fry pan, 12 inches fry pan with lid,...
- Multi layer strength: Heavy gauge base with multiple layers of copper, stainless...
- Stainless steel interior: A well loved cooking surface, the stainless steel...
If you have been looking around for one of the best stainless steel cookware sets, check out this great set from Duxtop. This kit comes with 13 pieces to make cooking easier than ever. T-fal has been well known around the world for decades, and for good reason. Their products are high-quality, affordable, and perform well. Are you planning on making a big dinner for your friends and family? No problem! This cookware set has everything you need to cook a big meal without having to reuse any of your pans.
When it comes to finding the best stainless steel cookware, there are a lot of features you are going to run into. This cookware kit from T-fal is a great option for your cooking needs! The full construction of the pan is metal, making it a great option for recipes that you start on the stovetop and finish in the oven. Not only can you use this pan in the oven and on traditional gas and electric burners, but it is also suitable for all cooktops including induction.
Here’s what you can expect to find upon unboxing your new cookware:
- 8” fry pan
- 5” fry pan
- 1qt saucepan with lid
- 2qt saucepan with lid
- 3qt saucepan with lid
- 5qt dutch oven with lid
- Stainless steel steamer
One of the things people are often concerned about when they are buying new pans is heat distribution. These pans from T-fal have multiple layers of stainless steel, aluminum, and copper which gives even and fast heat. Whether you are cooking a grilled cheese, eggs, or a steak, you don’t have to worry about hot spots and uneven cooking.
Pros:
- Oven safe up to 550°
- Constructed from 18/10 stainless steel
- Has marks inside of the pan for easy measurements
Cons:
- Outside of pans scratch easily
5. Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- SET INCLUDES: 1.5 Quart saucepan with cover, 3 Quart saucepan with cover, 3.5...
- DURABLE DESIGN: Elegant and contemporary, the professional Triple Ply...
- COOKING AND CLEANING: Polished cooking surface does not discolor, react with...
When it comes to shopping for a new set of stainless steel cookware, there are many features that you are going to run into from oven and dishwasher safe options and models that can be used on various styles of cooktops. Luckily for you, the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set comes with a wide range of perks!
This great set from Cuisinart comes with several bells and whistles that are going to make it easier than ever to make a great meal at home. The first feature we are going to cover is the large size of this cookware set. This is a hefty kit with 12 pieces, including several saucepans, stockpots, and sautee pans with lids. It even has a steamer insert with its own separate cover.
Here’s a full list of what’s included with this kit:
- 5-qt saucepan with lid
- 3-qt saucepan with lid
- 8-inch skillet
- 10-inch skillet
- 5-qt saute pan with lid
- 8-qt stockpot with lid
- Steamer insert with cover
Not only are all of the pieces in this set is compatible with regular cooktops, but they also work with induction cooktops as well. Another great perk is that you can take these pans right from the stove to the oven since the all-metal constructed pans are oven safe up to 550°. You can even wash them in the dishwasher.
Pros:
- Dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 550°
- Lifetime warranty
- Can be used with induction cooktops
Cons:
- Cleaning the rivets by hand can be a hassle
6. Cuisinart 77-7 Chef’s Classic Stainless Cookware Set
- INCLUDES: 1.5-quart saucepan with cover, 3-quart saucepan with cover, 8-quart...
- EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN: Enjoy mirror finish, classic look and professional...
- MUST HAVE FEATURES: stainless steel cooking surface does not discolor, react...
Whether you’re in the market for a new set of cookware for your first home or you’re looking to switch from a non-stick set to a more eco-friendly and healthy alternative, this 7-piece set is a great place to start. Whatever the case, cooking with stainless steel is a lot easier than you may think. This modest cookware set is great if you are new to using stainless or if you are adding a few pieces to your current cookware set. No matter the reasoning, this set will be a great addition to your kitchen.
While this is a smaller kit than others on the market, don’t let the small size fool you! This cookware set has a little bit of everything, making it simple to be able to make a full meal.
This is everything that you can expect to see in the box:
- 5-qt saucepan with lid
- 3-qt saucepan with lid
- 10-inch skillet
- 8-qt stockpot with lid
The bases of the pans have aluminum encapsulated in them to ensure even heating and cooking. This is great because you don’t have to worry as much about hot spots in the pan. Another great detail is that the lids are tight-fitting, sealing in all of the moisture so your food doesn’t dry out while you’re cooking.
Pros:
- Dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 500°
- Drip-free pouring
- Can be used with induction cooktops
Here is something we don’t like:
- Smaller kit than many others
7. Faberware Millennium Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- Stainless steel cookware set includes: 1-quart and 2-quart saucepans with lids,...
- High heat induction cookware: Stainless steel pots and pans are oven safe to 500...
- Dishwasher safe: Cookware set is dishwasher safe for convenient cleanup
Are you on the hunt for a new set of cookware? If you love stainless steel pans and to invest in a full set of stainless steel pots and pans, you are in the right place. This amazing set from Faberware has everything you need to make a delicious meal for your family in one kit. Add your favorite ingredients and you’re on your way to a fantastic meal. It even comes with a lifetime warranty to cover any mishaps that you may run into.
The Faberware Millennium Stainless Steel Cookware Set is the perfect choice for anyone that is looking for a new set of pots and pans. For one great price, you’ll have all of the cookware you need to cook a great meal at home. This kit contains a 1-qt saucepan with lid, 2-qt saucepan with lid, 8-qt stockpot with lid, 8” frying pan, 10” frying pan, and a 3-qt saute pan with lid.
One of the biggest benefits of using this cookware set is that the pans can all be used both on the stove and in the oven. They are even compatible with high-heat induction cooktops. Each pan is durably constructed and made of stainless steel. The handles are even riveted on for added security. Once you are done cooking, you can wash them in the sink or you can toss them in the dishwasher for an easier cleanup.
Pros:
- Has glass lids so you can see what you’re cooking without releasing heat and steam
- Dishwasher and oven safe (up to 500°)
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Handles get hot
8. Cuisinart 77-17 Chef’s Classic Set
- SET INCLUDES: 1.5 Quart saucepan with glass cover, 1 Quart saucepan with glass...
- COOKING AND CLEANING: Experience professional performance with an aluminum...
- DURABLE & SLEEK DESIGN: Each piece designed with durability and a sleek mirror...
This amazing set from Cuisinart has everything you need to make a tasty meal in one kit. Add the ingredients for your favorite recipes and some utensils and you’re on your way to making a delicious meal for your family. If you want a large set of cookware you can use with induction, this would be a great choice for you!
The Cuisinart 77-17 Chef’s Classic Set is the perfect choice for anyone that is looking for a new set of pots and pans. Whether you’re looking for a set for your first place or you want to replace your old worn-out pans, these are a great value.
For one great price, you’ll have all of the cookware you need to cook a great meal at home. This 17 piece set includes 4 saucepans with lids, a dutch oven, and more!
Here is everything you can expect to see when you open up the box for the first time:
- 5 qt saucepan with lid
- 1 qt saucepan with glass lid
- 2 qt saucepan with glass lid
- 3 qt saucepan with glass lid
- 5 qt saute pan with helper handle and glass lid
- 4 qt dutch oven with glass lid
- 8 qt stockpot with glass lid
- 8” skillet
- 10” skillet
- 12” skillet with glass lid
- 20cm steamer insert with cover
The lids in this kit are great because they are glass which allows you to easily keep an eye on your food without having to remove the lid, releasing heat and steam that you need to cook your food.
One of the biggest benefits of using this cookware set is that the pans can all be used both on the stove and in the oven. They are even compatible with high-heat induction cooktops. Once you are done cooking, you can wash them in the sink or you can toss them in the dishwasher for easier cleanup.
Pros:
- Has glass lids so you can see what you’re cooking without releasing heat and steam
- Dishwasher and oven safe (up to 500°)
- Can be broiled or put in the freezer
Cons:
- Food sticks sometimes
9. Cook N Home Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- COOKWARE SETS - Cook N Home Basic Cookware Set, 12-Piece Includes 1.5QT Saucepan...
- GLASS LID & SILICONE HANDLES- Tempered glass lids with steam vent to view food...
- HIGH QUALITY - Pots and pans set is made of mirror polished 18/10 stainless...
If you’re in the market for a new set of cookware and you need ideas for stainless steel pots and pans for your kitchen then you are in the right place. This set has a little bit of everything, making it a great choice for day to day cooking or for hosting dinner parties with your friends and family. As our budget pick, this set gives you the most bang for your buck.
Here is everything you can expect to see when you open up the box for the first time:
- 5 qt saucepan with lid
- 5, 2, and 3 qt casserole pans with lids
- 5 qt stockpot with lid
- 10 in fry pan with lid
This is a fantastic choice for those that want a new set of pots and pans. Whether your old ones are wearing out, you want to replace mismatched items with a matching set, or you just want a fresh set of cookware, this would be a great investment for your kitchen. Having a reliable set of pots and pans can make a big difference in how you cook.
One of the best things you’ll be able to enjoy with this set is the see-through glass lids. If you’ve ever cooked with a lid on and found yourself checking your food frequently because you can’t see it, this set would be perfect for you. While these pans are not oven-safe, you can use them with a variety of cooktops, including induction, gas, electric, and halogen.
Pros:
- Has glass lids so you can see what you’re cooking without releasing heat and steam
- All pans come with a lid
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Not dishwasher or oven safe
10. Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware
- Aluminum core between 2 stainless steel layers provides even heating for...
- Elegant brushed stainless steel exterior on pots and pans can go from the oven...
- Clear tempered glass lids let you see food while it's cooking and are oven safe,...
Did you get a new cooktop and want a set of shiny new induction cookware to go with your new stove? This sturdy set from Calphalon has everything you need to make a delicious and healthy meal for your friends and family.
It’s even compatible with a wide range of cooktop styles, including gas, electric, and induction. From the stove to the oven and back, this cookware from Calphalon is a great set to use for day to day cooking and for hosting holiday dinner parties.
The Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a fantastic choice for those that want a new set of pots and pans, whether your old ones are wearing out, you want a new matching set of pots and pans, or you want to give a friend or relative a great wedding gift. For one great price, you’ll have all of the cookware you need to cook a great meal at home.
Here is everything you can expect to see when you open up the box for the first time:
- 8, 10, and 12-inch omelet pans
- 5 and 2.5 qt saucepans with lids
- 3 qt saute pan with lid
- 6 qt stockpot with lid
The lids in this kit are great because they are made with tempered glass which makes it super easy to keep an eye on your food. You won’t have to take the top off, which is great because it keeps in the heat and steam that you need to cook your food. You can even take the pans from the stove to the oven to the table.
Pros:
- See-through glass lids
- Oven safe pans
- Dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Narrow handles
Buying Guide
If you are in the market for the best stainless steel cookware set, then take a look at this buying guide to help you decide which set is right for you.
Size of The Set
The first thing you should look at when you are shopping for a new set of stainless steel cookware is how big the set is. Looking at cookware kits that are too large is not advised because you don’t want to fall in love with a great set that you simply don’t have space for.
Versatility
Do you want a set of cookware that can be used more than just on the stovetop? Choosing a cookware set that is dishwasher safe, oven-safe, and that has a wide variety of pieces is a good way to have something for every cooking situation.
How Often Do You Cook?
It is important that you take into account how frequently you cook at home and how extravagant the meals tend to be. If your family is super busy and you typically make simple meals a few times a week, then you might want to go with a smaller set.
If you cook at home often then you may want to invest in a larger option. Alternatively, if you don’t cook at home often but you occasionally host dinner parties or cook holiday meals at home, then a bigger set would be a good idea.
Family Size
How many people do you usually cook for? Do you usually cook for yourself and one other person? Do you have a 7-person household? The number of people you coof for frequently is also something to think about before you commit to a cookware set.
Features
The final thing you should consider before purchasing a set of cookware is the features that the kit has to offer. Many kits include a couple of saucepans, a saute pan, and a stockpot. Some larger sets have more pans, plus lids for the pans.
There are some things that make some pieces better than others, depending on your personal preferences.
Do you want something that is oven and dishwasher safe? Many cookware sets can be washed in the dishwasher and the lack of non-stick coating makes them safe to put in the oven.
Some pans are made for use on a gas or electric cooktop, others can be used on a variety of cooktops, such as induction burners. No matter what features you are interested in, our list has something for everyone.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the best stainless steel cookware.
How do you cook with stainless steel?
If you want to know how to cook with stainless steel, it’s much easier than you may think! One of the most important things is to make sure you have adequately oiled your pan. It is also crucial that your pan is not too cool when you put the food in.
Here are a few tips for cooking on stainless steel.
- Always allow the food to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. Food that is too cold will stick to the pan, leaving you with destroyed food and a big mess.
- Be sure to preheat your pan over medium heat. This allows you to brown your food while it cooks through rather than burning the outside and leaving the middle raw.
- Test the pan with a tablespoon of butter. If the butter bubbles and turns brown, the pan is too hot. If the butter just melts but doesn’t start bubbling, the pan is too cold. If you drop butter in the pan and it melts and bubbles rapidly without darkening, then the pan is just right.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Adding too many things to the pan cools it off and makes things cook slowly and stick.
How do you season a stainless steel pan?
One of the reasons people find stainless steel to be intimidating is that food has a tendency to stick if the pan isn’t used properly. If you have a high-quality stainless steel cookware set and you want it to be non-stick, you probably want to know how to season a stainless steel pan. The process is super simple!
- Heat your pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes
- Add about a tablespoon of a high-smoke oil such as coconut oil and let it melt in the pan
- Swirl the oil around, allowing it to coat the entire inside of the pan. Leave the pan on the heat until the oil smokes
- Once the oil is smoking, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool completely
- After the pan cools, pour out the remaining oil and wipe the pan with a paper towel to remove any excess
Seasoning a stainless steel pan is just that easy!
How do you clean a stainless steel pan?
Cleaning a stainless steel pan is much easier than you may expect! A lot of people think stainless steel is hard to cook with and hard to clean but that isn’t the case at all. If you learn how to clean a stainless steel pan, and see how easy it is, you are sure to fall in love with this type of pan.
There are a few choices for stainless steel:
- Hot Water: Place your pan on the stove and let it heat up for a couple of minutes. Once the pan is hot enough that water will sizzle, add about a cup of water and a couple drops of dish soap. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then use a nylon or wooden spoon to loosen up and burnt bits on the bottom of the pan.
- Vinegar: This is the same method we just went over, but rather than using water, you use vinegar. This is intended for tougher messes.
- Overnight Soak: Fill the pan with hot water and add some dish soap and let it soak overnight. In the morning, you should be able to more or less wipe it clean.
- Dryer Sheet Method: This is a great way to get rid of tough, burnt messes. Put enough water in the pan to completely cover the mess. Bring it to a boil, then remove it from the heat. Add a dryer sheet to the pan, making sure you push it down with a spoon so it is completely wet. Let that rest for a few hours and then wipe the pan clean.
How do you stop food from sticking to a stainless steel pan?
While many people shy away from stainless steel pans because they have a reputation of food sticking to them and burning to the bottom of the pan, that doesn’t have to be a problem you have to deal with moving forward.
Once you learn how to stop food from sticking to stainless steel pans, the way you cook will be forever changed.
Here are a few tips to prevent sticking:
- Make sure that your food is at room temperature; food that is too cold will stick
- Don’t overcrowd the pan since adding too much will cool the pan too much, causing things to stick
- Use enough oil; this one is tricky because not enough oil will cause your food to stick and too much oil isn’t healthy
