Best Cookware Sets for Your Kitchen According to Professional Chefs

You probably have a few pots and pans that are in constant rotation in your kitchen. I know I do! While I love my current Our Place pan and Le Creuset Dutch oven, I’ve been wanting to invest in a full cookware set for quite some time, but haven’t found the chance to sit down and actually consider my options. I know I’m not alone in wanting a set full of pots, pans, and lids that can be used to make stews, pastas, casseroles, and other traditional recipes.

That said, I’ve scoured through the internet for cookware sets and came up with an extensive list based on price, material, and compatibility. Plus, I spoke with professional chefs about what to look for when purchasing a cookware set and how to keep it in pristine condition for years to come.

Our top picks for best cookware set

How we selected the best cookware sets

I looked at the top cookware brands on the market to find the best cookware sets for everyday use. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or professional chef, here’s how I found the best ones:

Material

I looked at the material each cookware set was made out of and the function that plays in its effectiveness. For example, stainless steel is durable and doesn’t warp at high temperatures. Other popular materials I evaluated include ceramic and aluminum.

Price

Cookware sets can be expensive depending on how many pieces are included and the brand. That said, I looked at a variety of options that cost between $99 and $900—that’s a broad spectrum, however, that provides options for a wide range of budgets.

Pieces

A solid cookware set has an assortment of pots and pans to use in the kitchen. I looked at sets from four to 17 pieces that can be used for large dinners, daily meals, and on special occasions.

What to consider when buying a cookware set

Included pieces

The best cookware sets come with a variety of different pieces. However, you’ll usually find a variation of a frying pan, saute pan, Dutch oven, skillet, stock pot, and saucepan. Ann Ziata, chef at the Institute of Culinary Education, recommends looking for a dinnerware set with a 2-quart pot, a 4-quart pot, and an 8-inch sauté pan for a starter set for one to two people. “For households of 4+ people, add a 10-quart rondeau, an 8-quart pot, and a 10-inch sauté pan. I’d also include a nonstick pan too for eggs and fish,” she adds.

Materials

You’ll notice cookware available in a variety of materials including stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and ceramic. That said, some materials are better than others in terms of durability and ease of use. According to Jon Butler, executive chef at KIKI’S in La Quinta, California, stainless steel is a great option for a cookware set. “It’s durable and can sustain high cooking temperatures without warping,” he adds.

Price

The cost of a quality cookware set will depend on how many pieces are included, the brand, and the material. As a general rule of thumb, copper and stainless steel cookware sets are usually priced higher anywhere between $250 and $900+. On the other hand, you can find more budget-friendly options under under $250 if you’re okay with something more basic, but effective.

What pieces does a cookware set need?

According to Butler, the essential pieces needed for a cookware set include a frying pan, cast-iron skillet, non-stick pan, Dutch oven, and saucepan. This can vary based on the number of pieces in the set. Some even come with storage or bonuses like chef knives.

What cookware set material should you buy?

The material you choose depends on your priorities and budget. For example, if you prioritize dishes that are easy to clean and non-stick, then you’ll want to opt for stainless steel or copper. “Look for 18/10 or 304 stainless steel with a copper or aluminum core,” says Ziata. “Anodized cookware is wonderful, but is quite heavy and more expensive, too.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the healthiest type of cookware to use?

According to Ziata, cookware made from stainless steel, copper, anodized metal, and cast iron are the healthiest to use. More specifically, Butler says that stainless steel is the best choice since it does not react to ingredients that could damage the pan and emit harmful chemicals.

What is the most durable brand of cookware?

There are numerous cookware brands, but the ones mentioned in this list such as Made In, Le Creuset, Our Place, and GreenPan are all great picks since they have options that are durable and easy to maintain.

What is the best material for everyday cookware?

Everyday cookware should be functional and durable. “Stainless steel layered with an aluminum center is affordable and great for at-home use,” says Ziata. Ceramic is also a safe bet since it’s easy to clean and can withstand high temperatures.

When should I buy a cookware set versus buying individual pieces?

This varies based on what you already have in your kitchen. “Buy individual pieces if you already have some solid cookware in your kitchen or if you are very specific about what you want,” says Ziata. “If you want to splurge on a ceramic coated cast iron pot for long braises, but are okay with a more run-of-the-mill gallon pot for cooking pasta, then individual pieces [are] more suitable.”

On the flipside, some people really want the aesthetic of matching cookware. “If having an eclectic assortment of pieces is not your thing, invest in a set for a cohesive look,” says Ziata. “If you do not like looking at your cookware, you will not enjoy cooking with it.”

How long does a cookware set last?

According to Butler, a cookware set can last anywhere between five to 10 years. “Ultimately the longevity of the set is determined by the user and how they maintain the pieces,” he adds. “It’s always a good rule of thumb to know how to maintain the pieces for long term use.”