Best Brand for Stainless Steel Cookware for the Best Meals

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

1. Cuisinart 12 Piece Cookware Set, MultiClad Pro Triple Ply

Sale
Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel...
  • Polished cooking surface does not discolor, react with food or...
  • Cookware also features cool grip handles secured with stainless...
  • Oven safe up to 550F, Rims are tapered for drip-free pouring.
  • Dishwasher safe, Tight-fitting stainless steel covers seal in...
  • 12-piece cookware set. The set consists of: 1-1/2- and 3-quart...

Using this Cuisinart MultiClad Pro cookware set has been one of the most effective recipe changing moments. The surface of the material is shiny, stainless and its quality enables the food to be heated evenly so that the food is cooked through. This set finds its use in cooking, whether it is in sautéing vegetables or in the preparation of soups and sauces, you will benefit from how this set gets your dish to its rightful texture.

The new and improved Cool Grip handles are perhaps one of the most attractive features of this unit. They’ve ensured that it is easy to grip the a hot pot without having to be worried about your palms getting burnt.

Although it has its advantages, you’ll have to adapt to using stainless steel if you’ve previously been using non-stick set. Food can stick if you didn’t heat your pans as required, or if you didn’t utilize sufficient oil while cooking.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Sturdy construction
  • High-quality cookware
  • Even heating

Cons:

  • Scratches easily

2. Amazon Basics - Stainless Steel Induction

Amazon Basics - Stainless Steel Induction-Ready...
  • 11-piece set includes an 8-inch frypan, 10-inch frypan, 1.5 quart...
  • Heavy-gauge 18/8 stainless steel construction with aluminum core...
  • Suitable for use on stovetops and induction tops; Oven safe up to...
  • Riveted stainless steel handles stay cool to the touch during...
  • Transparent tempered glass lids with steam escape holes

Cooking using the Amazon Basics stainless steel cookware set has been great. Cookware sets come with pots and pans, which are suitable for many cooking processes. Starting from the frying pan to the simmering plate everything feels strong and well constructed, which helps when using it. Whereas the body of the pan is constructed of tri-ply bonded stainless steel, the riveted handles allow for cool touch further enhancing on the pan’s usability, safety as well as comfort when cooking.

The second feature that deserves attention is the distribution of heat in the set. Heavy gauge Stainless Steel in conjunction with aluminium core bottoms make your meal to cook uniformly. But apart from the convenience, the pots’ design looks very stylish and will certainly update your kitchen’s look.

On the other hand, discoloration may be a problem depending on the product, for instance macaroni. The non-stick surface is really good but, there might be those stains which are very hard to get off or penetrate the pan leaving a mark.

Pros:

  • Oven safe
  • Even heat distribution
  • Easy to use
  • Perfect for home cooks
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Learning curve required

3. Mueller Pots and Pans Ultra-Clad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Mueller Pots and Pans Set 17-Piece, Ultra-Clad Pro...
  • Contemporary Essentials - This contemporary 17 Piece kitchen...
  • Strong And Durable -The pots and pans feature a 3-ply premium...
  • Versatility - This cookware set is a complete kitchen in a box!...
  • Seal In Flavors - Utilize the professional-grade tempered glass...
  • Superior Quality With Mueller - We are here to offer you only the...

When using the Mueller Pots and Pans Set, you get a sense that you are a professional chef. The brushed satin finish not only blend nicely into any kitchen, but it is also non-stick when cooking. There are ranging sizes making it easy to use for a simple sauté to a rich stew and even casseroles. Each part warms up uniformly, minimizing the probability of some sections getting too hot to burn your food.

These pots are comfortable to handle because of the ergonomic handles which this set comes with. They are cooler during cooking which is quite an asset when you are working very closely with heat. The tempered glass lids are an exceptional idea because they let you watch the contents of the pot without losing heat.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Durable
  • Easy to use
  • Sturdy
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons:

  • Prone to mineral deposits

4. Martha Stewart Castelle 10-Piece Cookware Set

Sale
Martha Stewart Castelle 10 Piece 18/8 Stainless Steel...
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX: This cookware set includes two stainless steel...
  • BUILT TO LAST: 18/8 stainless steel construction promotes...
  • IMPACT-BONDED ALUMINUM CORE: Seamless aluminum layer promotes...
  • INTERIOR FILL LINES: Etched measurements allow easy monitoring of...
  • DOUBLE-RIVETED HANDLES: Ergonomic, Y-shaped handles help resist...

When using the Martha Stewart Castelle cookware set, it is as if one has stepped into a professional kitchen. The thickness of the pots and the feel of the enameled pans gives a positive image of the quality and durability of the product. Heat distribution is impeccable in each piece and so, you are assured of evenly cooked meals be it vegetables, meat or sauces.

Notably, there are measurement lines on the inner surface of the cookware. You don't need to grab that measuring cup: you can actively watch as the liquid levels rise as you cook. Moreover, the tempered glass lids have made a massive difference as they enable users to monitor foods without having to open the lid.

While the set excels in various ways, some individuals have complained that it is difficult to wash these pots. This might be a concern if you consider yourself as a someone who wants a fast and effective cleaning process. However, the improved performance and enhanced outlook are sufficient features for qualifying this collection as a valuable asset for your kitchen.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Good starter set
  • Sturdy

Cons:

  • Can be difficult to clean after heavy use
  • Initial learning curve for achieving optimal cooking results

5. LEGEND COOKWARE 3 Ply Stainless Steel Pots and Pans Set

LEGEND COOKWARE 3 Ply Stainless Steel Pots and Pans Set...
  • 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐧. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡....
  • 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝...
  • 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐏𝐥𝐲...
  • 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐓𝐨 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧 & 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞...
  • 𝐍𝐨 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫...

Cooking with Legend Cookware 3 Ply Set will be a completely new and unique experience in any kitchen. The build is sturdy and the heat distribution system ensures that baking and searing are much more consistent. All of them, starting with the Dutch oven and ending with the frying pans, work great, and there are no hot spots that could hinder your cooking.

This change from a basic set to this line of cookware has streamlined cooking methods. You can transfer directly from the stovetop to the oven, which makes it very convenient to cook dishes such as casseroles or braises in one process. This makes it possible for you to cook in any heat and not get limited to certain styles of cooking.

Cleaning up is also not complicated. The interior is relatively smooth whereby one can scrub it, and washing by hand is much more appropriate to maintain the cookware. 

Pros:

  • Sturdy
  • Life-long warranty
  • Easy to clean
  • Excellent heat distribution
  • High quality
  • Stainless steel construction

Cons:

  • Requires specific care to maintain appearance.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Before committing to the stainless steel cookware life, you should try to keep a few things in mind. These tips will give you the best chance at selecting a cookware set that you like and will last long.

a) Choose High-Quality Cookware

High-quality cookware

Image Source: reviewed.com

This is where brand names come in. When selecting your cookware set, it is important to consider the renowned brands and then visit the lesser-known ones. A good brand will give you value for money for every set that you buy. Therefore, it is worth considering that cookware sets with merit and people’s trust should be first on your list.

We understand the pull toward a cheaper set that promises the best cooking. However, you risk spending money, and the set is a disappointment and a waste of money. You will pay more for good quality, but the set will serve you for decades.

b) The Thickness Matters Most

Thickness matters

Image Source: cristelusa.com

Always remember that stainless steel cookware sets are very thick and heavy. This is perfect for conducting heat. Additionally, a hot pan with five-ply stainless steel is more likely to cook food evenly. If the cookware set is not as thick as you expected, it is not recommended to buy it.

Any good quality stainless steel set is reinforced with either 304 or 326 steel. Normally, it is denoted as 18/10. Therefore, be mindful of this because they conduct heat well and repel salt deposits. This way, you can always rest assured that eating food from a stainless steel pan is safe.

c) Durable Handles, Lids, and Rivets

Durable handles and lids

Image Source: betterhomeandgardens.com

Stainless steel cookware sets are only as good as their handles and lids. Sturdy construction involves not only the pots and pans but also the handles and lids. The whole pot or pan could break apart if the lids and handles aren’t made well. The rivets should also be sturdy. If you can see any, ensure they aren’t lost.

d) Aesthetics

Image Source: foodandwine.com

Stainless steel cookware sets are beautiful. They look great, especially if you hang them up. However, it is pertinent to ensure that the set you choose blends in with the aesthetic of your kitchen; otherwise, you will have to store the set out of sight. Sometimes, a badly colored set can be an eyesore.

FAQs

i) What is the best gauge of stainless steel cookware?

18/10 is the best gauge. It is very tough and has the best heat distribution and conductivity.

ii) How can you tell good quality stainless steel cookware?

The most efficient test would be a simple magnet test. Take a magnet and place it close to your cookware sets. If the magnet sticks, then it’s safe. If it doesn’t, then it might contain nickel.

iii) What should I avoid on stainless steel cookware sets?

Bleach, chlorine products, hard water, harsh abrasives like baking soda, oven cleaners, scouring powders, and cleaners that contain ammonia.

iv) Why do chefs like using stainless steel?

Apart from its excellent heat distribution and conductivity, stainless steel is tough and indestructible. This means it can survive the harshness of a busy kitchen.

v) Why is food sticking to my stainless steel set?

Stainless steel has pores that open and close when exposed to heat. The motion will hold on to your food and stick to the bottom. However, preheat your pan first, then lightly grease it to stop this.

The Bottom Line

Unlike cast iron, stainless steel is rust-resistant, which is why most people prefer to cook in it. A stainless steel set should be a staple in any household since it is a great investment for future meals. Taking good care of a stainless steel set is easy and should be done after cooking to ensure longevity.

Featured Image Source: reviewed.com

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles
best induction cookware

Best Induction Cookware Sets for Home Cooks and Chefs

Induction hobs can be a little intimidating, especially if you're unfamiliar with how they work. The irony is that, compared ...

best slow cooker

Best Slow Cooker-How I Tested Them + Tips

Having the best slow cooker is a convenience I never knew I needed till I got one. A slow cooker ...

Best Small Electric Tea Kettle

5 Best Small Electric Tea Kettle (2024 Reviews & Buying Guide)

In the last few decades, the tendency for kettles has changed from conventional stovetops to electrical kettles. The very best ...