In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsThe Bottom LineChoosing the Right OneOur TestsWe Also ConsideredCommon QuestionsOur Trusted Expertise
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
The Bottom Line
Choosing the Right One
Our Tests
We Also Considered
Common Questions
Our Trusted Expertise
Photo:Courtesy of Brand
Courtesy of Brand
From frying eggs to flipping pancakes, there are countless kitchen tasks that callfor nonstick cookware. These pots and pans feature a slick, slippery coating on the surface, which allows food to slide right off without clinging to it and making a residue-laden mess.Kathleen Garcia-Benson, RDN, C.S.S.D., says that cooking with nonstick pans boasts plenty of benefits—particularly in the quest for healthier cooking. “When people find cooking to be more enjoyable and less of a hassle, they may be more inclined to experiment with a variety of nutrient-dense recipes,” Garcia-Benson says. In other words, the less time you spend scrubbing bits of gunk off your cookware, the more time you have to make and enjoy nutritious meals.“The ease of use—and reduced frustration due to food not sticking in nonstick pans—may encourage more people to prepare their food at home, [which] allows for better control over ingredients,” Garcia-Benson adds. “There’s also the flexibility to use less oil or butter if desired.”While there are plenty of reasons to invest in a set of nonstick cookware, the market is so saturated with options it can be mildly overwhelming to pick the right one. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve rounded up 25 popular nonstick cookware sets and tested them in our Lab to see how they stack up. Read on to find which ones are worth adding to your kitchen.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$635Jump to ReviewAlso Great:OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$400Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$800Jump to ReviewBest Starter Set:KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$260Jump to ReviewBest Small Set:Made In Non Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$599Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic Set:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to ReviewBest Budget Set:SALECAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$150$80Jump to Review
From frying eggs to flipping pancakes, there are countless kitchen tasks that callfor nonstick cookware. These pots and pans feature a slick, slippery coating on the surface, which allows food to slide right off without clinging to it and making a residue-laden mess.
Kathleen Garcia-Benson, RDN, C.S.S.D., says that cooking with nonstick pans boasts plenty of benefits—particularly in the quest for healthier cooking. “When people find cooking to be more enjoyable and less of a hassle, they may be more inclined to experiment with a variety of nutrient-dense recipes,” Garcia-Benson says. In other words, the less time you spend scrubbing bits of gunk off your cookware, the more time you have to make and enjoy nutritious meals.
“The ease of use—and reduced frustration due to food not sticking in nonstick pans—may encourage more people to prepare their food at home, [which] allows for better control over ingredients,” Garcia-Benson adds. “There’s also the flexibility to use less oil or butter if desired.”
While there are plenty of reasons to invest in a set of nonstick cookware, the market is so saturated with options it can be mildly overwhelming to pick the right one. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve rounded up 25 popular nonstick cookware sets and tested them in our Lab to see how they stack up. Read on to find which ones are worth adding to your kitchen.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$635Jump to ReviewAlso Great:OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$400Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$800Jump to ReviewBest Starter Set:KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$260Jump to ReviewBest Small Set:Made In Non Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$599Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic Set:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to ReviewBest Budget Set:SALECAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$150$80Jump to Review
Best Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$635Jump to ReviewAlso Great:OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$400Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$800Jump to ReviewBest Starter Set:KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$260Jump to ReviewBest Small Set:Made In Non Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$599Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic Set:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to ReviewBest Budget Set:SALECAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$150$80Jump to Review
Best Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$635Jump to Review
Best Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$635
Best Overall:
Also Great:OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$400Jump to Review
Also Great:OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$400
Also Great:
Best Splurge:All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$800Jump to Review
Best Splurge:All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$800
Best Splurge:
Best Starter Set:KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$260Jump to Review
Best Starter Set:KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$260
Best Starter Set:
Best Small Set:Made In Non Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$599Jump to Review
Best Small Set:Made In Non Stick Cookware Set at Amazon$599
Best Small Set:
Best Ceramic Set:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to Review
Best Ceramic Set:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395
Best Ceramic Set:
Best Budget Set:SALECAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$150$80Jump to Review
Best Budget Set:SALECAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$150$80
Best Budget Set:
SALE
Best OverallLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$635 at Amazon$955$650 at Nordstrom$42 at Walmart
Best OverallLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set
Best Overall
Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set
PHOTO: Amazon
$635 at Amazon$955$650 at Nordstrom$42 at Walmart
What we like:This durable, versatile set sears and browns better than most other nonstick cookware we’ve tried.
What to know:The lids are only oven-safe to 425˚F.
Le Creuset’s 10-piece, hard anodized nonstick set includes just about everything a home cook could ask for. In this set, you’ll find 8-inch and 10-inch fry pans, 2-quart and 3-quart saucepans, a 3.5-quart sauté pan and a 6 ⅓-quart stockpot, and everything comes with its own tempered glass lid except for the fry pans. These pans also include stainless steel handles, making them oven-safe up to 500˚F. (The lids are only oven-safe to 425˚F, though, so keep that in mind before popping them into the oven.)
When we tested this Le Creuset set, we really appreciated its durability, and we felt it was a good fit for novice and experienced cooks alike. The nonstick coating proved to be very effective, and there were absolutely no issues with food sticking to the interior of the pans. We loved the simple, practical design of the cookware, and the long handles were easy to grip and felt good in our hands.
Pieces Included:8- and 10-inch fry pans, 2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 6⅓-quart stockpot with lid |Material:Hard anodized aluminum and stainless steel |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, to 500˚F (without lids) |Dishwasher-Safe:Yes
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Also GreatOXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$400 at Amazon$400 at Wayfair$400 at OxoWhat we like:Oven-safe to 600˚F, this sturdy set is both PFAS- and PFOA-free.What to know:Handwashing is recommended for best results.This 10-piece OXO Professional Hard Anodized set was another top scorer during our tests. The set includes one 10-inch and one 12-inch frying pan, one sauté pan, two saucepans with lids and a casserole dish with lid. Made of anodized aluminum with a ceramic nonstick coating, this set is free of PFAS and PFOA and is oven-safe to 600˚F.When putting this cookware set to the test, we thought the nonstick coating did its job flawlessly. Neither the rice pilaf nor the fried egg stuck to the inside at all when sliding them out of the pan, and while there was a little debris left from our scrambled eggs, we were able to coax it out easily with a spatula. The handles were incredibly comfortable to hold—particularly the ones on the stock pot—and they stayed cool to the touch while cooking.While this set is said to be dishwasher-safe, the manufacturer recommends handwashing with warm, soapy water for best results. While OXO states that cookware can stand up to metal utensils, it’s best to stick to plastic, silicone or wooden tools to preserve the nonstick surface of these pans.Pieces Included:10- and 12-inch frying pans, 3-quart sauté pan with lid, 2.3- and 3.3-quart saucepans with lids, 5.2-quart casserole with lid |Material:Anodized aluminum |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 600˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:YesPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Also GreatOXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$400 at Amazon$400 at Wayfair$400 at Oxo
Also GreatOXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set
Also Great
OXO Ceramic Professional Non-Stick Cookware Set
$400 at Amazon$400 at Wayfair$400 at Oxo
What we like:Oven-safe to 600˚F, this sturdy set is both PFAS- and PFOA-free.
What to know:Handwashing is recommended for best results.
This 10-piece OXO Professional Hard Anodized set was another top scorer during our tests. The set includes one 10-inch and one 12-inch frying pan, one sauté pan, two saucepans with lids and a casserole dish with lid. Made of anodized aluminum with a ceramic nonstick coating, this set is free of PFAS and PFOA and is oven-safe to 600˚F.
When putting this cookware set to the test, we thought the nonstick coating did its job flawlessly. Neither the rice pilaf nor the fried egg stuck to the inside at all when sliding them out of the pan, and while there was a little debris left from our scrambled eggs, we were able to coax it out easily with a spatula. The handles were incredibly comfortable to hold—particularly the ones on the stock pot—and they stayed cool to the touch while cooking.
While this set is said to be dishwasher-safe, the manufacturer recommends handwashing with warm, soapy water for best results. While OXO states that cookware can stand up to metal utensils, it’s best to stick to plastic, silicone or wooden tools to preserve the nonstick surface of these pans.
Pieces Included:10- and 12-inch frying pans, 3-quart sauté pan with lid, 2.3- and 3.3-quart saucepans with lids, 5.2-quart casserole with lid |Material:Anodized aluminum |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 600˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:Yes
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best SplurgeAll-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$800 at Amazon$800 at Nordstrom$800 at Wayfair
Best SplurgeAll-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
Best Splurge
All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
$800 at Amazon$800 at Nordstrom$800 at Wayfair
What we like:This is a design-forward, high-performing luxury set.
What to know:Pans feel a bit heavy in the hand.
However, cookware of this caliber doesn’t come cheap—at a whopping $1,200, this All-Clad set is the most expensive one we tested. Additionally, these pots and pans felt a bit heavy when we used them, and cooking with them may require some finesse for less-experienced cooks.
Pieces Included:10- and 12-inch fry pans, 2-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart sauté pan with lid, 3-quart soup pot with lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid |Material:Stainless steel and aluminum |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 500˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:Yes
PHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Starter SetKitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$260 at Amazon$169 at Wayfair$169 at WalmartWhat we like:When it comes to durability, versatility and affordability, this KitchenAid set gets top marks.What to know:The lids on these pots and pans are only oven-safe to 350˚F.This comprehensive, induction-compatible KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware set is a great option for new cooks building their kitchen toolkits for the first time. Like many standard cookware sets, this KitchenAid version includes two saucepans, a stockpot and two frying pans. But, setting it apart from similar sets, this one also comes with a grill pan that’s perfect for whipping up a grilled cheese sandwich or a quick batch of French toast.Constructed of hard anodized aluminum with stainless steel handles, these pots and pans are designed to be durable, and they’re oven-safe up to 500˚F (although the lids can only withstand up to 350˚F). Both the cookware and the lids are dishwasher-safe for fuss-free cleaning.Overall, we were impressed with the performance of this KitchenAid set when trying it out in our test kitchen. Our fried eggs slid out of the pan perfectly, as did our rice pilaf, and the long, ergonomically designed handles felt comfortable in our hands. However, we did notice some heat distribution issues, particularly when making our scrambled eggs in the 10-inch skillet. Additionally, the handles of the pots got quite hot during cooking, so make sure you grab a towel or an oven mitt before gripping them.Pieces Included:1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 6-quart stockpot with lid, 11.25-inch grill pan, 8.25-inch frying pan, 10-inch frying pan with lid |Material:Anodized aluminum and stainless steel |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 500˚F (without lids) |Dishwasher-Safe:YesPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Starter SetKitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$260 at Amazon$169 at Wayfair$169 at Walmart
Best Starter SetKitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set
Best Starter Set
KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set
$260 at Amazon$169 at Wayfair$169 at Walmart
What we like:When it comes to durability, versatility and affordability, this KitchenAid set gets top marks.
What to know:The lids on these pots and pans are only oven-safe to 350˚F.
This comprehensive, induction-compatible KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware set is a great option for new cooks building their kitchen toolkits for the first time. Like many standard cookware sets, this KitchenAid version includes two saucepans, a stockpot and two frying pans. But, setting it apart from similar sets, this one also comes with a grill pan that’s perfect for whipping up a grilled cheese sandwich or a quick batch of French toast.
Constructed of hard anodized aluminum with stainless steel handles, these pots and pans are designed to be durable, and they’re oven-safe up to 500˚F (although the lids can only withstand up to 350˚F). Both the cookware and the lids are dishwasher-safe for fuss-free cleaning.
Overall, we were impressed with the performance of this KitchenAid set when trying it out in our test kitchen. Our fried eggs slid out of the pan perfectly, as did our rice pilaf, and the long, ergonomically designed handles felt comfortable in our hands. However, we did notice some heat distribution issues, particularly when making our scrambled eggs in the 10-inch skillet. Additionally, the handles of the pots got quite hot during cooking, so make sure you grab a towel or an oven mitt before gripping them.
Pieces Included:1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 6-quart stockpot with lid, 11.25-inch grill pan, 8.25-inch frying pan, 10-inch frying pan with lid |Material:Anodized aluminum and stainless steel |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 500˚F (without lids) |Dishwasher-Safe:Yes
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Small SetMade In Non Stick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$599 at Amazon$609 at Walmart$726$599 at Madeincookware.comWhat we like:This sleek, simple set is ideal for smaller kitchens, and the slick nonstick surfaces come in a choice two interior colors.What to know:Not dishwasher-safe.Simply named “The Non Stick Set,” this 7-piece cookware assortment from Made In comes with the necessities and not much else. The stripped-down set includes a 10-inch nonstick frying pan, a 4-quart nonstick saucepan with a lid, a 3.5-quart sauté pan with a lid and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid. Crafted from stainless steel with a coated interior, this Italian-made, induction-compatible cookware comes in a choice of two interior colors: ”graphite” and “harbour blue.” It’s also available in an even smaller 3-piece set that only includes the frying pan and the saucepan (with a lid).During our testing, sticky foods stood no chance against the slick interior of this Made In set, and we found no issues with uneven heating or hot spots. We also loved the sleek yet comfortable design of these pans, and the beveled lip allowed our food to glide right out of them with minimal spills.This entire set can withstand oven temperatures up to 500˚F—lids included. One minor setback: The manufacturer recommends hand-washing these pots and pans, which may be a deal-breaker for some. (In our experience, though, the cleaning and drying process is incredibly easy.)Pieces Included:10-inch nonstick frying pan, 4-quart nonstick saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 8-quart pot with lid |Material:Stainless steel |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 500˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:NoPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Small SetMade In Non Stick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$599 at Amazon$609 at Walmart$726$599 at Madeincookware.com
Best Small SetMade In Non Stick Cookware Set
Best Small Set
Made In Non Stick Cookware Set
$599 at Amazon$609 at Walmart$726$599 at Madeincookware.com
What we like:This sleek, simple set is ideal for smaller kitchens, and the slick nonstick surfaces come in a choice two interior colors.
What to know:Not dishwasher-safe.
Simply named “The Non Stick Set,” this 7-piece cookware assortment from Made In comes with the necessities and not much else. The stripped-down set includes a 10-inch nonstick frying pan, a 4-quart nonstick saucepan with a lid, a 3.5-quart sauté pan with a lid and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid. Crafted from stainless steel with a coated interior, this Italian-made, induction-compatible cookware comes in a choice of two interior colors: ”graphite” and “harbour blue.” It’s also available in an even smaller 3-piece set that only includes the frying pan and the saucepan (with a lid).
During our testing, sticky foods stood no chance against the slick interior of this Made In set, and we found no issues with uneven heating or hot spots. We also loved the sleek yet comfortable design of these pans, and the beveled lip allowed our food to glide right out of them with minimal spills.
This entire set can withstand oven temperatures up to 500˚F—lids included. One minor setback: The manufacturer recommends hand-washing these pots and pans, which may be a deal-breaker for some. (In our experience, though, the cleaning and drying process is incredibly easy.)
Pieces Included:10-inch nonstick frying pan, 4-quart nonstick saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 8-quart pot with lid |Material:Stainless steel |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 500˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:No
PHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Ceramic SetCaraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware SetPHOTO: Bloomingdale’s$395 at Amazon$395 at Target$395 at NordstromWhat we like:An easy-to-clean, design-forward set that comes in multiple colors.What to know:Handwashing is recommended for best results.This 12-piece set from Caraway was far and away our favorite when it came to ceramic cookware sets. Within the set, you’ll find one 10.5-inch frying pan, a 3-quart saucepan with lid, a 6.5-quart Dutch oven with lid and a 4.5-quart sauté pan with lid, plus a set of modular magnetic storage racks and a canvas lid holder with hooks. A frontrunner in the design category, the entire set is available in eight different colors, making it easy to choose one that complements your kitchen décor.Not only are these pans induction-compatible and oven-safe to 550˚F, but we also found them to be easy to clean and high-performing in the nonstick category. Our scrambled eggs and fried eggs slid off the surface effortlessly, as did the rice pilaf, and everything cooked evenly with no noticeable hot spots. While the pans were a little bulky, their roomy size allowed us to add all of our ingredients without overcrowding.As far as cleaning, these pots and pans are technically dishwasher-safe, although Caraway warns that washing them in the dishwasher too frequently can affect the longevity of the cookware. Luckily, we were able to clean these pans easily with warm, soapy water and a sponge. Additionally, Caraway even includes its own complimentary “cleaning eraser” with the set to remove any stubborn stuck-on bits.Pieces Included:10.5-inch frying pan, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 6.5-quart Dutch oven with lid, 4.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 4 modular magnetic pan racks and a canvas lid holder with hooks |Material:Ceramic |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 550˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:NoPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will Dickey
Best Ceramic SetCaraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware SetPHOTO: Bloomingdale’s$395 at Amazon$395 at Target$395 at Nordstrom
Best Ceramic SetCaraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set
Best Ceramic Set
Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set
PHOTO: Bloomingdale’s
$395 at Amazon$395 at Target$395 at Nordstrom
What we like:An easy-to-clean, design-forward set that comes in multiple colors.
This 12-piece set from Caraway was far and away our favorite when it came to ceramic cookware sets. Within the set, you’ll find one 10.5-inch frying pan, a 3-quart saucepan with lid, a 6.5-quart Dutch oven with lid and a 4.5-quart sauté pan with lid, plus a set of modular magnetic storage racks and a canvas lid holder with hooks. A frontrunner in the design category, the entire set is available in eight different colors, making it easy to choose one that complements your kitchen décor.
Not only are these pans induction-compatible and oven-safe to 550˚F, but we also found them to be easy to clean and high-performing in the nonstick category. Our scrambled eggs and fried eggs slid off the surface effortlessly, as did the rice pilaf, and everything cooked evenly with no noticeable hot spots. While the pans were a little bulky, their roomy size allowed us to add all of our ingredients without overcrowding.
As far as cleaning, these pots and pans are technically dishwasher-safe, although Caraway warns that washing them in the dishwasher too frequently can affect the longevity of the cookware. Luckily, we were able to clean these pans easily with warm, soapy water and a sponge. Additionally, Caraway even includes its own complimentary “cleaning eraser” with the set to remove any stubborn stuck-on bits.
Pieces Included:10.5-inch frying pan, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 6.5-quart Dutch oven with lid, 4.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 4 modular magnetic pan racks and a canvas lid holder with hooks |Material:Ceramic |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:Yes, up to 550˚F |Dishwasher-Safe:No
Best Budget SetCAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$150$80 at Amazon$80 at WalmartView on Mycarote.comWhat we like:This set gets you pretty much everything you’d need to set up your kitchen at a price that’s hard to beat (some colors are well under $100)What to know:The lighter-colored models did show some staining after several months of use.If you (or someone you know) are just starting out, it would be hard to find a more complete set at such a reasonable price. The pieces are aluminum with a ceramic nonstick coating, and sets come in wood- and stainless-steel-handled options. For under $150 (with some colors in the $90 range), you get two frying pans, a sauté pan, a stock pot, and two saucepans covering most (if not all) of your kitchen needs.During testing, we found that the nonstick coating on these pots and pans held up admirably even after months of use. In particular, we found the smaller skillet ideal for cooking eggs without sticking. These pans were light and easy to handle, and the sauté pan and saucepan both had spouts, which we thought was a nice touch. We also found that cleanup was never an issue; there was no food debris that a quick swipe with a damp paper towel or a soapy sponge couldn’t handle. The lack of rivets also helped make the cleaning process surprisingly painless.That said, we did find this set prone to stains. Sautéeing onions resulted in a bit of browning on the bottom of the pans, and over time, we found that the wooden handles were prone to discoloration. Still, for the price and the durability of this set’s nonstick coating, we feel it has earned its title of the best budget set.Pieces included:9.5-inch fry pan, 11-inch fry pan, 5-quart sauté pan with lid, 6-quart stock pot with lid, 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart saucepan with lid, steamer and silicone turner IMaterial:Aluminum with nonstick coating |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:No |Dishwasher-Safe:NoPHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell Kilgore
Best Budget SetCAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$150$80 at Amazon$80 at WalmartView on Mycarote.com
Best Budget SetCAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
Best Budget Set
CAROTE Granite 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
$150$80 at Amazon$80 at WalmartView on Mycarote.com
What we like:This set gets you pretty much everything you’d need to set up your kitchen at a price that’s hard to beat (some colors are well under $100)
What to know:The lighter-colored models did show some staining after several months of use.
If you (or someone you know) are just starting out, it would be hard to find a more complete set at such a reasonable price. The pieces are aluminum with a ceramic nonstick coating, and sets come in wood- and stainless-steel-handled options. For under $150 (with some colors in the $90 range), you get two frying pans, a sauté pan, a stock pot, and two saucepans covering most (if not all) of your kitchen needs.
During testing, we found that the nonstick coating on these pots and pans held up admirably even after months of use. In particular, we found the smaller skillet ideal for cooking eggs without sticking. These pans were light and easy to handle, and the sauté pan and saucepan both had spouts, which we thought was a nice touch. We also found that cleanup was never an issue; there was no food debris that a quick swipe with a damp paper towel or a soapy sponge couldn’t handle. The lack of rivets also helped make the cleaning process surprisingly painless.
That said, we did find this set prone to stains. Sautéeing onions resulted in a bit of browning on the bottom of the pans, and over time, we found that the wooden handles were prone to discoloration. Still, for the price and the durability of this set’s nonstick coating, we feel it has earned its title of the best budget set.Pieces included:9.5-inch fry pan, 11-inch fry pan, 5-quart sauté pan with lid, 6-quart stock pot with lid, 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart saucepan with lid, steamer and silicone turner IMaterial:Aluminum with nonstick coating |Induction Compatible:Yes |Oven-Safe:No |Dishwasher-Safe:No
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Will DickeyPHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell Kilgore
The Bottom Line: The Best Nonstick Cookware Sets
Our top overall pick, theLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick PRO Cookware Set(view at Amazon), is a versatile, comprehensive set that suits most home cooks, both amateur and experienced. The pots and pans were comfortably and practically designed, and the durable construction made us feel like these would last a long time. We also loved theOXO Professional Hard Anodized 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set(view at Amazon). This slightly more affordable set is an ideal choice for those looking to invest in a quality cookware set while spending a little less.
Choosing a Nonstick Cookware Set
Check the Coating
When it comes to nonstick pans, there is some debate regarding safety. Coatings can contain PFOA and PTFE, also referred to as Teflon (which is a proprietary name for this compound). It’s still unknown how toxic exposure to small levels of these coatings can be, though many people believe it is better to stay away from them entirely.
Ceramic nonstick skillets, which are made from aluminum that has been coated in ceramic, may be a better alternative, although the jury is still out on the long-term health impacts. There are also hard anodized pans, which Garcia-Benson says are made from aluminum that has been altered in an electrochemical process that hardens and seals the pan’s surface. “[Hard anodized aluminum] doesn’t chip as easily asceramic-coated cookwarecan,” says Garcia-Benson.
Look at What’s Included
Most cookware sets contain at least one frying pan, saucepan and sauté pan. Sometimes, sets also include a stockpot,a Dutch oven—also referred to as a casserole pot—and even utensils like slotted spoons and spatulas. Lids are often included for all or most pans, but this will vary from set to set.
Pick the Right Materials
When choosing cookware, consider the weight, construction, material and cookware compatibility. Heavier cookware can conduct heat more effectively, but it can also be more challenging for some people to move in and out of the oven. Some handles, like those made of plastic or wood, cannot withstand high temperatures in the oven or dishwasher. Also, if you have an induction cooktop, check to see if your cookware is induction-compatible before purchasing. “Thicker pans tend to distribute heat more evenly and are generally more durable,” Garcia-Benson says. “However, they may also be heavier.”
Factor in the Value
Our Nonstick Cookware Tests
We based our nonstick cookware set rankings on a thorough analysis and test of 25 popular sets. We enlisted a team of testers, including home cooks, chefs, restaurant managers and recipe developers, to try out each set in our Lab. To evaluate each cookware set’s nonstick capabilities, we made various foods, including rice pilaf and fried and scrambled eggs, in the pans. We also scraped a knife across the pan’s surface to test its durability, and we noted how easy each pan was to use and clean. Additionally, we considered the design, construction, materials and overall performance when determining the top picks in each of our categories.
EatingWell / Will Dickey
In addition to the nonstick cookware sets we included in this guide, we also tested multiple other sets that didn’t quite hit the mark for us. Some of these sets included:
Amazon Basics Nonstick 15-Piece Cookware Set($65 at Amazon):This set performed well in our tests, but the set from CAROTE narrowly beat this one out in terms of aesthetics and durability. Still, for the price, you get an impressive array of cookware and utensils, and this Amazon Basics set remains an excellent bargain option.
Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set with AquaShield($240 at Amazon):We liked how easy these pans were to clean, and we found the handles to be quite comfortable in the hand. However, when putting these pans to work, we found that the heat was very difficult to control—so much so that nearly everything we cooked in them got burned.
Circulon SteelShield Hybrid 10-Piece Cookware Set($280 at Amazon):We loved the sleek, visually appealing design of this cookware set, and we thought the materials felt sturdy and durable. The lids feature unique, “S”-shaped handles, which we thought was a nice touch, and they fit onto the pans snugly. However, due to the exposed metal rings at the bottom of the pans, a good bit of our food ended up sticking to them.
Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Set($200 at Amazon):This set was a solid performer across the board—we liked its approachable price point, its even cooking capability and the fact that there was minimal sticking when we made our scrambled eggs. But when stacked against the winners on our list, this set never really stood out as stellar in any particular category.
How does nonstick cookware work?
Nonstick pansare covered with a coating—traditionally ceramic or a polymer called polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE—that repels food and prevents it from sticking. This coating is then bonded to a metal pan made from aluminum, stainless steel or another lightweight metal that can help the pan conduct heat.
Are nonstick pans safe?
Some nonstick pans are coated in PTFE. When overheated, Garcia-Benson says these coatings can release fumes that can be harmful to humans—and even lethal to birds. “When using nonstick pans, avoid overheating them, and refrain from using metal utensils, which can scratch the surface and degrade the coating,” she says. “Using pans on low-to-medium heat and using wooden or silicone utensils can reduce potential exposure to the nonstick coatings.” Garcia-Benson notes that ceramic coatings are free from these types of materials, and assuming the manufacturer’s instructions are followed, they’re generally considered safe to use. If you’re concerned, consider gettingnontoxic cookware.
What’s the best way to clean your nonstick cookware set?
The best way to clean nonstick cookware is with a nonabrasive sponge, warm water and some mild dishwashing soap, which will help preserve the coating for longer. While some nonstick cookware sets can be cleanedin the dishwasher, it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions before doing so, as the high heat of the dishwasher may degrade the nonstick coating.
How long does nonstick cookware last?
Depending on the quality, most nonstick cookware can last anywhere from one to five years. However, to get the most life out of your cookware, it’s essential to care for it properly. This includes only usingwooden or silicone utensilswith your nonstick pans, as metal can scratch the coating and cause it to wear out more quickly.
Hannah Selingeris a James Beard Award-nominated writer who has written about food and drinks since 2015. Hannah used the test results from 25 different nonstick cookware sets, along with her extensive experience, to write this article. In addition to her expertise, she consultedKathleen Garcia-Benson, RDN, C.S.S.D., for her input on the pros and cons of nonstick cookware.
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