Photo:Courtesy of Brand. EatingWell design.

a collage featuring various saucepans

Courtesy of Brand. EatingWell design.

Without a doubt, the saucepan is the most often used pan in almost any kitchen. They have unbeatable versatility on the stove and, for most models, in the oven as well. And if the word “saucepan” conjures up visions of flimsy, sticky pans, you may want to reconsider. Today’s models combine layers of stainless steel and aluminum for superior heat retention and conductivity, and there are now countless nontoxic, nonstick options on the market. Though at first glance saucepans may seem a little one-note, you’ll find models with helpful details like etched measurement lines, pour spouts and helper handles.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Misen 3-Quart Saucier at Misen.comJump to ReviewBest Budget:SALETramontina 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$94$40Jump to ReviewBest Nonstick:Caraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan at Amazon$115Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Steel:All-Clad Saucepan at Amazon$120Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Splurge:Le Creuset 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$210Jump to ReviewBest Nonstick Splurge:Made In Cookware Nonstick Saucepan at Madeincookware.comJump to ReviewBest Small:Calphalon Saucepan at Amazon$89Jump to Review

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:Misen 3-Quart Saucier at Misen.comJump to ReviewBest Budget:SALETramontina 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$94$40Jump to ReviewBest Nonstick:Caraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan at Amazon$115Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Steel:All-Clad Saucepan at Amazon$120Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Splurge:Le Creuset 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$210Jump to ReviewBest Nonstick Splurge:Made In Cookware Nonstick Saucepan at Madeincookware.comJump to ReviewBest Small:Calphalon Saucepan at Amazon$89Jump to Review

Best Overall:Misen 3-Quart Saucier at Misen.comJump to Review

Best Overall:Misen 3-Quart Saucier at Misen.com

Best Overall:

Best Budget:SALETramontina 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$94$40Jump to Review

Best Budget:SALETramontina 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$94$40

Best Budget:

SALE

Best Nonstick:Caraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan at Amazon$115Jump to Review

Best Nonstick:Caraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan at Amazon$115

Best Nonstick:

Best Stainless Steel:All-Clad Saucepan at Amazon$120Jump to Review

Best Stainless Steel:All-Clad Saucepan at Amazon$120

Best Stainless Steel:

Best Stainless Splurge:Le Creuset 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$210Jump to Review

Best Stainless Splurge:Le Creuset 3-Quart Saucepan at Amazon$210

Best Stainless Splurge:

Best Nonstick Splurge:Made In Cookware Nonstick Saucepan at Madeincookware.comJump to Review

Best Nonstick Splurge:Made In Cookware Nonstick Saucepan at Madeincookware.com

Best Nonstick Splurge:

Best Small:Calphalon Saucepan at Amazon$89Jump to Review

Best Small:Calphalon Saucepan at Amazon$89

Best Small:

Best OverallMisen 3-Quart SaucierPHOTO: MisenView on Misen.com$109 at Sur La Table

Best OverallMisen 3-Quart Saucier

Best Overall

Misen 3-Quart Saucier

PHOTO: Misen

Misen 3 Quart Saucier

View on Misen.com$109 at Sur La Table

​​What we like:The sloped sides of this pan make it ideal for whisking.

What to know:The handle angles up, making the Misen slightly off-balance.

We loved this brushed stainless saucier from Misen with its rounded sides, making it more like a bowl than the standard straight-sided saucepan. Whisking and cleaning were both easier, as we didn’t have to work food out of the corners. The stay-cool handle is long, with an indent for your index finger to help stabilize the pan when it gets heavy. The lip of the pan is slightly flared, a great design feature that makes pouring easier from any side while still allowing the lid to fit securely onto the pan. The lid’s handle, though a little small for large hands, does get hot when the pan is heated, so you’ll want to use a towel or oven mitt to protect your hands.

We found no hotspots when we cooked rice and made our sauce. The five layers that make up the pan’s base are more robust than the other pans we tested. The Misen incorporates two layers of aluminum set among three layers of 3-millimeter steel, making it much thicker than what you’ll find in most pans. With the extra layer of highly conductive aluminum, the Misen offers stable heat retention and heating at low and high heat settings, securing its title as our favorite saucepan.

Material:5-ply, 3.0mm stainless steel |Weight:3.3 lbs. |Oven-Safe:Yes, to 800°F|Induction-Compatible:Yes|Dishwasher-Safe:Yes

PHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers Davis

The Misen 3 Quart Saucier with the lid off

Rice cooked in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The handle on the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The lid on the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

After cooking rice in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The Misen 3 Quart Saucier in a dishwasher

The bottom of the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

Cheese is melted in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

A side view of the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

Residue left behind after cooking in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

A side view of the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The Misen 3 Quart Saucier with the lid off

Rice cooked in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The handle on the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The lid on the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

After cooking rice in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

The Misen 3 Quart Saucier in a dishwasher

The bottom of the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

Cheese is melted in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

A side view of the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

Residue left behind after cooking in the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

A side view of the Misen 3 Quart Saucier

Best BudgetTramontina 3-Quart SaucepanPHOTO: Amazon$94$40 at Amazon$109 at Macy’s$102 at Kohls.com

Best BudgetTramontina 3-Quart Saucepan

Best Budget

Tramontina 3-Quart Saucepan

PHOTO: Amazon

Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

$94$40 at Amazon$109 at Macy’s$102 at Kohls.com

​​What we like:The Tramontina is an incredible value, offering exceptional quality at less than half the price of some of its competitors.

What to know:Our rice left an imprint on the bottom of the pan.

The low price of the Tramontina 3-Quart Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel Saucepan blew us away. Costing less than half of any of the other pans, this pan performed on par with its higher-priced competitors. Its classic design features straight sides and blunt edges, with an opaque lid that fits well into the base. The pan’s exterior is shiny stainless steel, giving it the look of a professional-quality pan. The Tramontina also features a stay-cool handle that feels comfortable and easy to handle while cooking.

Material:Tri-ply stainless steel |Weight:3.3 lbs.|Oven-Safe:Yes, to 500℉|Induction-Compatible:Yes|Dishwasher-Safe:Yes

PHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers DavisPHOTO: EatingWell / Tiffany Vickers Davis

Residue left after cooking rice in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

Red sauce is cooked in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The residue left after cooking red sauce in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan with the lid on

Rice cooked in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

Rice cooked in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The residue left after cooking rice in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan in a dishwasher

The Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan with the lid off

Residue left after cooking rice in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

Red sauce is cooked in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The residue left after cooking red sauce in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan with the lid on

Rice cooked in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

Rice cooked in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The residue left after cooking rice in the Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan

The Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan in a dishwasher

The Tramontina Covered 3-Quart Saucepan with the lid off

Best NonstickCaraway 3-Quart Sauce PanPHOTO: Amazon$115 at Amazon$115 at Target$115 at Nordstrom

Best NonstickCaraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan

Best Nonstick

Caraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan

Amazon Caraway 3-Quart Sauce Pan

$115 at Amazon$115 at Target$115 at Nordstrom

​​What we like:The Caraway has helpful extras for cleaning and maintenance.

What to know:This pan is not dishwasher-safe.

The first thing we noticed when unboxing this pan were the thoughtful accessories. A thick branded trivet and a special cleaning eraser were included with the pan, which came in handy during our tests. The trivet was helpful when we moved the pan off the stove, and true to the Caraway brand, is made of sustainable materials. The sponge, intended to help with any stains or scorching, was a nice touch since this pan is handwash only.

We loved the standout look of the black exterior and gold handles on the Caraway saucepan, though we did notice that some retailers will sell the gold-accented options at a higher price. The straight sides curve gently to the base, making stirring and whisking easier. The pan is constructed of stainless steel with a ceramic nonstick interior. The Caraway was the lightest of our top choices, with a well-designed handle featuring a bump-out on the underside for stabilizing with your index finger. Though not transparent, the lid has a vent to allow excess steam to escape, which is great for steaming vegetables and simmering sauces. We do wish the lid’s handle was affixed to the lid with rivets and not Phillips-head screws, which can catch food and rust over time.

Material:Nonstick Ceramic |Weight:2.6 lbs.|Oven-Safe:Yes, to 550℉|Induction-Compatible:Yes |Dishwasher-Safe:No

Best Stainless SteelAll-Clad SaucepanPHOTO: Williams Sonoma$120 at Amazon$120 at Nordstrom$120 at Williams Sonoma​​What we like:The All-Clad saucepan displayed impressively even heating during our tests.What to know:The straight sides of this pan form a sharp angle that can make whisking a challenge.Making a delicate sauce in the All-Clad D3 revealed impressively even cooking capabilities as we heated the pan to incorporate the ingredients. The three-ply construction sandwiches aluminum between two stainless layers and extends up the sides of the pan for excellent conductivity. Although the straight sides and tight corners can make whisking a challenge, this design helps keep liquids from sloshing while stirring or blending.We love the All-Clad’s polished stainless steel construction, which didn’t scratch, discolor or warp after repeated use and washing. The handle is the longest of any of the pans we tested, which helped to keep it cool while cooking. Although the lid is not see-through, it sits below the rim of the pan to create a solid closure to hold in heat. All-Clad recommends hand-washing the pan for longevity, and we found it very easy to clean, with none of our ingredients sticking or staining the pan.Material:3-ply stainless steel |Weight:3.5 lbs.|Oven-Safe:Yes, to 600℉|Induction-Compatible:Yes |Dishwasher-Safe:YesPHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie Tuttle

Best Stainless SteelAll-Clad SaucepanPHOTO: Williams Sonoma$120 at Amazon$120 at Nordstrom$120 at Williams Sonoma

Best Stainless SteelAll-Clad Saucepan

Best Stainless Steel

All-Clad Saucepan

PHOTO: Williams Sonoma

Williams Sonoma All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

$120 at Amazon$120 at Nordstrom$120 at Williams Sonoma

​​What we like:The All-Clad saucepan displayed impressively even heating during our tests.

What to know:The straight sides of this pan form a sharp angle that can make whisking a challenge.

Making a delicate sauce in the All-Clad D3 revealed impressively even cooking capabilities as we heated the pan to incorporate the ingredients. The three-ply construction sandwiches aluminum between two stainless layers and extends up the sides of the pan for excellent conductivity. Although the straight sides and tight corners can make whisking a challenge, this design helps keep liquids from sloshing while stirring or blending.

We love the All-Clad’s polished stainless steel construction, which didn’t scratch, discolor or warp after repeated use and washing. The handle is the longest of any of the pans we tested, which helped to keep it cool while cooking. Although the lid is not see-through, it sits below the rim of the pan to create a solid closure to hold in heat. All-Clad recommends hand-washing the pan for longevity, and we found it very easy to clean, with none of our ingredients sticking or staining the pan.

Material:3-ply stainless steel |Weight:3.5 lbs.|Oven-Safe:Yes, to 600℉|Induction-Compatible:Yes |Dishwasher-Safe:Yes

PHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie Tuttle

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid on a countertop

The logo on the bottom of the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid on a kitchen countertop

A person fills the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid with water

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid on a countertop

Food is cooked in the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

A person stirs food in the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

Rice cooked in the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid on a countertop

The logo on the bottom of the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid on a kitchen countertop

A person fills the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid with water

The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid on a countertop

Food is cooked in the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

A person stirs food in the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

Rice cooked in the All-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 3-Quart Sauce Pan with Lid

Best Stainless SplurgeLe Creuset 3-Quart SaucepanPHOTO: Le Creuset$210 at AmazonView on Lecreuset.com

Best Stainless SplurgeLe Creuset 3-Quart Saucepan

Best Stainless Splurge

Le Creuset 3-Quart Saucepan

PHOTO: Le Creuset

Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

$210 at AmazonView on Lecreuset.com

​​What we like:Le Creuset’s stainless saucepan has helpful measurement lines on the interior.

What to know:We struggled to remove the branded sticker on the pan.

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel has many subtle features that make it a top choice at a top price. The mirror-polished exterior looks great and didn’t scratch after cooking and going through the dishwasher. The handle has a subtle curve on the underside, making it more comfortable to carry. The curvature of the pan lip is excellent for pouring from any angle, and the lid, which features the iconic rings of the Le Creuset enameled cookware line, fits well but also features a small vent to prevent the overflow of boiling liquids.

Material:Tri-ply stainless steel|Weight:3 lbs. |Oven-Safe:Yes, to 500℉ |Induction-Compatible:Yes |Dishwasher-Safe:Yes

The measurements on the side of the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The lid on the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

An overhead view of the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan with the lid off

Rice cooked in the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan on a wooden table

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan in a dishwasher

The handle on the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan lid

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan in a sink

The lid on the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

Rice is cooked in the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The measurements on the side of the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The lid on the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

An overhead view of the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan with the lid off

Rice cooked in the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan on a wooden table

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan in a dishwasher

The handle on the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan lid

The Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan in a sink

The lid on the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

Rice is cooked in the Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan

Best Nonstick SplurgeMade In Cookware Nonstick SaucepanPHOTO: Made In CookwareView on Madeincookware.com

Best Nonstick SplurgeMade In Cookware Nonstick Saucepan

Best Nonstick Splurge

Made In Cookware Nonstick Saucepan

PHOTO: Made In Cookware

Made In Cookware NonStick Saucepan

View on Madeincookware.com

​​What we like:The smaller size of this pan is terrific for single servings and quick reheats.

What to know:The Made In saucepan is quite pricey.

There are rules for caring for and maintaining the Made In, however: Nothing butsilicone or wooden utensilsshould ever touch its surface, hand-washing is a must, and you’ll want to be careful when stacking it, as this could cause damage to the saucepan’s nonstick surface. Your reward for good stewardship of your saucepan will be a kitchen workhorse with real longevity.  Though it comes at a steeper price than most of the larger pans we tested, the Made In may be a splurge, but it’s one we don’t think you’ll regret.

Material:5-ply stainless with nonstick coating |Weight:2 lbs. |Oven-Safe:Yes, to 500℉|Induction-Compatible:Yes |Dishwasher-Safe:No

Best SmallCalphalon SaucepanPHOTO: Amazon$89$77 at Amazon$70 at Wayfair$80 at Kohls.com​​What we like:The Calphalon features a clear lid and high-end touches like pouring spouts and measurement marks.What to know:We saw some discoloration on the sides and base after a few uses.Compact and sturdy, the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5-Quart Saucepan has some nice touches that we appreciated. The glass lid was a stand-out and something none of our other picks had. The lid fits just right to work with the two subtle spouts on the lip of the pan, letting you easily strain liquids. On the inside of the pan, etched measuring marks make it easy to gauge the volume or add liquids without a measuring cup. Though small, it felt mighty and functional, ideal for quick reheats or long, slow cooking, with high sides that help limit evaporation.We liked the heat retention on the Calphalon and attributed it to the tri-ply stainless design. We did notice some discoloration after a few uses but viewed them more as a patina since there was no accompanying damage or warping of the pan. Technically dishwasher-safe, Calphalon recommends hand-washing the pan for longevity. Still, they also helpfully suggest that if you do use a dishwasher to stay away from citrus-based cleaners, which can wear down the saucepan’s surface over time.Material:Tri-ply stainless steel |Weight:3 lbs. |Oven-Safe:Yes, to 450℉ |Induction-Compatible:Yes|Dishwasher-Safe:YesPHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie Tuttle

Best SmallCalphalon SaucepanPHOTO: Amazon$89$77 at Amazon$70 at Wayfair$80 at Kohls.com

Best SmallCalphalon Saucepan

Best Small

Calphalon Saucepan

Amazon Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

$89$77 at Amazon$70 at Wayfair$80 at Kohls.com

​​What we like:The Calphalon features a clear lid and high-end touches like pouring spouts and measurement marks.

What to know:We saw some discoloration on the sides and base after a few uses.

Compact and sturdy, the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5-Quart Saucepan has some nice touches that we appreciated. The glass lid was a stand-out and something none of our other picks had. The lid fits just right to work with the two subtle spouts on the lip of the pan, letting you easily strain liquids. On the inside of the pan, etched measuring marks make it easy to gauge the volume or add liquids without a measuring cup. Though small, it felt mighty and functional, ideal for quick reheats or long, slow cooking, with high sides that help limit evaporation.

We liked the heat retention on the Calphalon and attributed it to the tri-ply stainless design. We did notice some discoloration after a few uses but viewed them more as a patina since there was no accompanying damage or warping of the pan. Technically dishwasher-safe, Calphalon recommends hand-washing the pan for longevity. Still, they also helpfully suggest that if you do use a dishwasher to stay away from citrus-based cleaners, which can wear down the saucepan’s surface over time.

Material:Tri-ply stainless steel |Weight:3 lbs. |Oven-Safe:Yes, to 450℉ |Induction-Compatible:Yes|Dishwasher-Safe:Yes

PHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie TuttlePHOTO: EatingWell / Katie Tuttle

Food is whisked in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

A person washes the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan in a sink

A person washes the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan in a sink

An overhead view of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

Butter cooks in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

Rice cooked in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

A side view of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

The Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan is washed in a sink

A person cooks food in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

The information on the bottom of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

Food is whisked in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

A person washes the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan in a sink

A person washes the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan in a sink

An overhead view of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

Butter cooks in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

Rice cooked in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

A side view of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

The Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan is washed in a sink

A person cooks food in the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

The information on the bottom of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 2.5qt Saucepan

The Bottom Line: The Best Saucepan

With its sloped sides and ultra-high heat tolerance, our top pick for the best saucepan is theMisen 3-Quart Saucier(view at Misen). This pan can go from the stove to a high-heat oven, and its design makes blending ingredients and cleaning easy. For a nonstick option, theCaraway 3-Quart Nonstick Saucepan(view at Amazon) is nontoxic and oven-safe, with superior heat retention and a surface you can easily wipe clean.

Choosing a Saucepan

Stainless Steel vs. Nonstick Materials

When choosing between stainless or nonstick saucepans, your decision should be based on what you like to prepare and how much effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your pans. Nonstick pans require extra care to ensure they last, requiring gentler utensils, such assilicone and wood, and additional care when storing. Nonstick saucepans are often hand-wash only. However, they clean easily, and models with ceramic interiors (not themuch-maligned Teflon) are anontoxic choicefor health-minded cooks. Stainless pans can withstand a little less mindful handling, but your food is more likely to stick. While most stainless steel models are dishwasher-safe, hand-washing will ensure your saucepans last much longer.

We were delighted to find that all our top picks were induction-compatible, which, in the past, has not been the case. With more homes moving to induction cooktops, it is helpful to be sure that your choice works with an induction range. Oven safety might seem like an odd feature in a saucepan, but we have found it a beneficial attribute. Keeping foods warm or reheating is much easier if you don’t have to transfer your food to a different vessel.

Size and Capacity Matters

Choosing the size of your pans depends mainly on how many people you intend to feed regularly. Taking a mental inventory of the dishes you make most often, even writing down your favorites, can inform you on what size pan will work best in your home. If you usually cook four to six servings of sides, pasta or sauces, a 3-quart pan will work well for your needs. If you make oatmeal, sauces and sides for less, a 2- to 2.5-quart pan will serve you well.

Ergonomic Touches Can Add Appeal

A 3-quart saucepan is the median size and the one most often included in cookware sets. It is small enough to heat a can of soup and large enough to boil a few servings of pasta. Checking the weight is key when shopping for a saucepan. A heavier pan will only increase in weight once filled with water, soup or stock. A pan constructed of lighter materials might be better if you have mobility issues. For higher quality materials like stainless and ceramic, a helper handle on the pan makes it easier to transfer it from stove to countertop.

Another element to consider is the handle. With many pans, a bump on the underside of the handle allows your index finger to rest comfortably and help balance the pan. The angle of the handle is another important consideration. If the handle is fully horizontal, there needs to be a good balance of weight, or your wrist will take on the brunt of the load. Some pans will have an arched handle, which tends to distribute weight more efficiently. A saucepan with a downward-angled handle might feel heavier because most of the weight is concentrated in the body of the pan.

Transparent Lids Are Ideal, But Not Common

Our Saucepan Tests

We boiled two cups of water in each pan and noted the time. We carried each pan with the water from sink to stovetop, evaluating the comfort of the handle and how heavy the pan seemed when full. While heating and boiling, we observed how well the pans conducted heat and noted if there were any hot spots. We also noted hot handles on the pan and lid while cooking.

Cooking in each pan involved two tests: making a pan sauce or a hot beverage and cooking a grain dish. We chose sauces and drinks with lots of whisking and darker colors to see if corners and edges enhanced or inhibited blending. For pans with light interiors, we could determine if any staining occurred. We poured from the lip of each pan to assess how the design helped or hindered easy pouring and observed how well the mixture released from the pan.

We cooked grain dishes, utilizing their ovenability when possible to evaluate how the pan performed off the stovetop. Cooking grains allowed us to note the presence of any hot spots in addition to letting us observe how well the grain dish released from the pan.

We Also Considered

Caraway Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan($165 at Amazon):The Caraway stainless steel saucepan has the same sleek design as its ceramic saucepan with a low-profile handle and vented opaque lid. The heat conductivity was excellent, though we did have some scrubbing to do to remove stuck-on food.

Goldilocks 3-Quart Saucepan($50 at Goldilocks):We like the comfortable stay-cool handle on the Goldilocks and had no trouble whisking in the rounded corners, but we did have some issues with food sticking and had to work harder to clean it than with the other pans.

Greenpan Valencia Pro Ceramic Nonstick 1.5-Quart & 3-Quart Saucepan Set with Lids($180 at Greenpan): The Greenpan is a nice nonstick saucepan with a handle designed for comfort and a clear lid. However, it is only offered as part of a set with a smaller, 1.5-quart pan, which could be useful for some households but too much for others.

Made In Stainless Clad Saucepan, 4-Quart($159 at Made In):We really liked the Made In for its terrific nonstick surface, high 800°F tolerance in the oven and helper handle. However, it’s an awkward size at four quarts: too big for smaller tasks and a touch too small for larger ones.

Our Place Mini Perfect Pot 2.0, 2.5-Quart($130 at Our Place):The Our Place has many great features, including a helper handle, pouring spouts on both sides of the pan and a strainer cut-out in the lid. The sloped sides were also great for whisking; however, it just didn’t stand out from the other pans.

Zwilling Spirit 3-Ply Stainless Steel 4-Quart Saucepan($85 at Amazon):We loved the clear lid on the Zwilling and the etched measurement markers on the inside, but, at over five pounds, it was the heaviest among our pans and uncomfortable to maneuver.

Common Questions

What is the best material for a saucepan?

Saucepans are made of all types of materials, but the most common are stainless steel, nonstick, copper and ceramic nonstick. Each option has strengths and weaknesses, and knowing them can help you decide which will work best for your kitchen.

Stainless steel on its own is not a great conductor of heat but holds heat well, so most pans are made of alternating layers of steel and aluminum, which has superior heat conductivity. On the inside of the pan, the steel will typically be 18/10, the same as that used in sturdy stainless utensils, while the outer layer will be induction-compatible steel. With the rising popularity of induction cooktops, you’ll probably want to consider purchasing induction-ready pans.Stainless panslast a long time and work well with higher heat. They can be hard to clean if food gets burned to the pan and can come with a higher price tag.

Traditional nonstick pansare easy to clean and can conduct and hold heat well, especially when the base is layered with aluminum and steel. They tend to deteriorate quickly when higher heat is applied often and require hand-washing to avoid damage to their nonstick coating. Nonstick pans are also not as durable as stainless steel or copper, but remain an excellent option for cooks who don’t use a lot of high-heat cooking and do not want to deal with much cleanup.

Copper makesgorgeous cookware, and we have all seen amazing kitchens with loads of copper pans and pots hanging from hooks. Copper is a sensitive metal that heats quickly but doesn’t hold heat well and is not always induction-friendly. It is often layered with tin, making it sensitive to damage from acidic foods. Copper is an excellent choice for bakers who want to gently melt chocolate or create silky custards.

Mostceramic nonstick panson the market today are excellent conductors, making them terrific for cooking at low to medium heat. They are usually (but not always) induction-compatible and often come in fun colors for aesthetic-conscious cooks. Most brands also eschew the potentially toxic materials found in traditional nonstick coatings. Ceramic will not last as long as steel, but it is an excellent choice for many households where high-heating cooking is not a priority, but environmental concerns and ease of cleaning are.

Can saucepans go in the oven?

Not all saucepans can go in the oven, but all of our top picks can. Before placing yours in the oven, check that it is oven-safe. Some things that might prevent it from being able to go in the oven are plastic handles on the pan or lids. Check your pan’s information to learn the temperature ceiling for the pan in the oven, and make sure the same rules apply to the lid.

Are nonstick saucepans safe to use?

Nonstick pans are safe to use if you take a few precautions. First, you want to look at your pan carefully and ensure there are no nicks, scratches or divots, which indicate that the surface has been damaged. If you find any of the above, your pan is no longer safe to use, and you will need a new pan. When cooking in nonstick pans, keep the heat level medium or low. Preheating the pan for 90 seconds before adding ingredients will allow it to build heat and sear ingredients better. Cool the pan completely before cleaning to ensure it doesn’t warp or crack from the sudden temperature shift. Lastly, hand-wash your pan: A dishwasher can damage the pan’s nonstick coating.

How do I clean a burnt saucepan?

Our Trusted Expertise

Tiffany Vickers Davisis a chef, writer and food entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience. Having started out in high-profile restaurant kitchens, Tiffany now owns and operates a fresh-prepared meal company that ships nationally. Before starting her company, she was the test kitchen director atCooking Lightmagazine, testing hundreds of products during her 14-year tenure with the brand. She has used the All-Clad saucepan at home for over 13 years and was so proud it made the cut.

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