Best Cookware Sets for 2021

Have you moved into your first place? How about getting married? Or buying a new home? Whether or not you’re making a new life change, or just looking to upgrade your cookware-you’re going to need to put these best cookware sets on the top of your list.

We’ve compiled a list of the best-selling and best-rated kitchen cookware sets under a bunch of different variables. 

Looking for more? Find the best kitchen products, appliances, and recipes to make delicious food and desserts. 

Best Cookware Brands

The best cookware comes from a variety of different brands. Thankfully, you have Instant Mealtime to help you navigate the best cookware brands for your lifestyle. From All-Clad to Le Creuset, to Cuisinart, we will tell you which kitchen cookware sets you should buy. 

The variables in which we chose these best cookware sets to include the following:

• Wear and tear and general usability
• Brand recognition
• Specs and features
• Ease of cleaning
• Cookware material and health
• Customer reviews
• Value and price

Best Kitchen Cookware Sets for 2021

Follow along as we rank the best cookware sets for 2021 under a variety of categories that fit your wants and needs. Read below for the best kitchen cookware sets:

Best cookware sets on Amazon:

1. Best overall: Le Creuset 16-piece Cookware Set (Marseille)
2. Best budget kitchen cookware set: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
3. Runner up best cookware set: All-Clad Stainless Cookware Set,10-Piece
4. Most value: Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece Cookware Set
5. Best under $200: Duxtop Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set, 19PC
6. Best ceramic non-stick cookware set: Gotham Steel Cookware + Bakeware Set with Nonstick Durable Ceramic Copper Coating
7. Best under $100: GreenLife Soft Grip 16pc Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set
8. Best healthy non-stick: Ivation Ceramic Cookware, 16-Piece
9. Best cast Iron Set: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Set
10. Best Stainless Steel cookware set: Paderno 11-Piece Stainless-Steel Cookware Set
11. Honorable Mention: Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad Cookware Set, 10 Piece

Best Overall

Le Creuset 16-piece Cookware Set (Marseille)

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Our overall best cookware set is the Le Creuset 16-piece cookware set. Le Creuset is a household name when it comes to cooking. These sets are meant to last forever and be cherished. You simply can’t get any better than this Le Creuset cookware set. 

Features & Specifications

• The set comes with a 1.75-quart cast iron saucepan, a 10.25” cast iron skillet, a 5.5-quart cast iron round dutch oven, an 8-quart enameled steel stockpot, and a 4-quart stoneware covered rectangular dish. You also get a cast iron cookbook, a 5-piece silicone utensil set and wooden spoon. 
• Suitable for any heat source, you get even heat distribution with the enable cast iron.
• No need to season and chip-resistant with the black enamel cast iron. 
• 45% larger handles to distribute weight evenly. 
• Comes with a lifetime warranty.  

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love this best cookware set because you get good quality out of this collection. It’s perfect for cooking for small families and cooking gourmet meals. You’ll love the set’s ability to withstand everything. 

Buy Now: Le Creuset 16-piece Cookware Set (Marseille)

Best Budget

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

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Our best budget category goes to the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel cookware set. For a budget-friendly price, you get an elegant and contemporary professional-grade deluxe cookware set. 

Features & Specifications

• This stainless steel set does not face discoloration or alter food flavors. 
• Cool grip handles and tight fitting lids make this set easy to handle. 
• The triple-ply construction means unsurpassed heat conductivity with an aluminum core for even heat distribution.
• Oven safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Tapered rims for drip-free pouring.
• Pots, pans, and covers are dishwasher safe.
• Includes 12 pieces: 1 & ½ and 3-quart covered saucepans, 8 and 10-inch open skillets, 3 & ½-quart covered sauté pan, 8-quart covered stockpot, and steamer insert with lid. 
• Suitable for induction cooktops.

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love this best cookware set because of the affordable price and everything you get. It’s made of quality materials, which means you’ll be keeping this set for years to come. 

Buy Now: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

Runner Up

All-Clad Stainless Cookware Set,10-Piece 

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Our runner up best cookware set is the 10-piece All-Clad stainless steel cookware set. All-clad is a trusted brand in cookware, and it’s timeless and professional to boot. This set will withstand all the heavy-duty cooking you do for years. 

Features & Specifications

• Well-constructed and high-performance beyond the stainless-steel style for every level of cooking. Beginner to pro chef.  
• This set is versatile to match your needs, including: 8-inch and 10-inch fry pans, 2-quart and 3-quart sauce pans with lids, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stockpot with a lid. 
• Crafted with quality materials to hold and distribute heat evenly throughout the pan, no need to turn up the heat. 
• Made in the USA: Lasts a lifetime with its three alternating layers of stainless steel and aluminum bonded together. 
• Products are tested rigorously before hitting the market.
• Dishwasher safe and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. 

Customer Reviews

According to customer reviews, these pans are the most solid and easy to clean. You won’t have to worry about replacing them every few years when you buy this set. 

Buy Now: All-Clad Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 10-Piece

 

Most Value

Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece Cookware Set

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Our best cookware set with the most value is the Calphalon 10-piece classic pots and pans set. With every tool at your disposal, for a low price you get the most work out of a cookware set. 

 

Features & Specifications

• Comes with a BPA-free silicone no boiler over insert to stop messy spills when cooking foods like rice, pasta, and beans so you can multitask. 
• Stir through the center opening of the insert without causing any harm to yourself or food.
• Nonstick cookware is made of anodized aluminum.
•  The pots and pans feature measuring marks, pour spouts, and tempered glass lids with strainers. 
• The handles stay cool for safe cooking.
• Oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit: gas, electric, glass, and halogen stovetops. 
• Hand wash only. 
• Silicone inserts are top rack dishwasher safe. 

Customer Reviews

Durable and tough, this best cookware set stands out for reviewers because of the quality. Even though they’re durable and tough, these pots and pans still feel lightweight. Customers also love how handt the measurement marks are along with the built-in colander. No more needing to use a separate colander. You’ll also love to no-boil over inserts. 

Buy Now: Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece Cookware Set

Best Cookware Set Under $200

Duxtop Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set, 19PC

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Our best cookware set under $200 is the Duxtop professional stainless steel induction cookware set. For less than $200 you get a 19-piece quality cookware set. 

Features & Specifications

• The stainless steel is good grade and sturdy (18/10) to maintain the flavor of the food you cook.
• Impact-bonded technology makes the set built to last a lifetime. 
• The impact-bonded encapsulated aluminum bottom makes for quick and energy-efficient heating. 
• Use this set on a variety of stovetops including gas, electric, induction, and halogen.
• Features a straight-sided and drip-free pouring design. 
• The handles are shaped firmly to the pan and sare safe as well as durable.
• Comes with clear tempered glass lids. 
• Includes: 1.4-quart & 2.4-quart saucepan with lid, 4-quart casserole with lid, 7.6-quart stockpot with lid, 5.28-quart saute pan with helper and lid, 8-inch & 9.5-inch fry pan, 9.5-inch boiler basket, 9.5-inch steam basket, 2-prong fork & solid spoon & ladle & slotted turner & skimmer. 
• Oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit (lids up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Dishwasher safe and freezer sage. 
• Limited lifetime warranty and great customer service. 

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love this best cookware set for the fact that it gives you everything you need to cook in one box. It’s not only stylish and good-looking, but hard working to cook you amazing meals. 

Buy Now: Duxtop Professional Stainless Steel Induction Cookware Set, 19PC

Best Ceramic Non-Stick

Gotham Steel Cookware + Bakeware Set with Nonstick Durable Ceramic Copper Coating

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The best ceramic non-stick cookware set is the Gotham Steel set. Not only does this set feature non-stick durable ceramic copper coating, but it also comes with a bakeware set so you can cook anything and everything. 

Features & Specifications

• Includes: a suite of fry pans, stock pots, sauce pans, bakeware pans, steamers and more. 
• Color options: Comes in different colors of your choosing including copper, red, or teal.
• Award-winning Ti-Cerama coating so food comes right off the pan without needing oil or butter.
• Durable and scratch resistant to be metal utensil safe.
• Lightweight for a great cooking experience. 
• Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Good to use on stovetops of all kinds except induction. 
• Dishwasher safe. 

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love this ceramic copper coated best cookware set because of the results. The pans are sturdy to cook all your favorite foods without breaking them. No scrubbing needed as everything comes off easily in the end. 

Buy Now: Gotham Steel Cookware + Bakeware Set with Nonstick Durable Ceramic Copper Coating

 

Best Cookware Set Under $100

GreenLife Soft Grip 16pc Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set

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Our best cookware set under $100 is the GreenLife soft grip 16-piece ceramic non-stick cookware set. This set is eco-friendly and comes at a low price tag, making it a worthwhile cooking set to have. 

Features & Specifications

• Made of Thermolon ceramic non-stick coating that is PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium free. 
• No toxic fumes will be released from cooking. 
• Includes: 4” mini frypan, 7” open frypan, 9.5” open frypan, 1QT covered saucepan, 2QT covered saucepan, 5QT covered stockpot, 2.5QT covered sauté pan, 7” stainless steel steamer and 4 kitchen utensils.
• Stay cool handles are ergonomic and easy to use. 
• Oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Aluminum reinforcements on the body make it an excellent heat conductor. 
• Dishwasher safe. 
• Best used with high smoke point oils and nylon or wooden utensils. 

Customer Reviews

Customers love how environmentally friendly and yet how high-quality this best cookware set is. You won’t find any scratches or sticking if used correctly. 

Buy Now: GreenLife Soft Grip 16pc Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set

 

Best Healthy Cookware Set 

Ivation Ceramic Cookware, 16-Piece

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Our best healthy cookware set is the Ivation ceramic cookware. This 16-piece cookware set can handle all kitchen tasks and do it with perfection while not compromising your health. Without any chemicals, you can still have non-stick cooking. 

Features & Specifications

• Made with ZERO PFA’s, PFOAs, lead, or cadmium. 
• You can cook with higher temperatures and not compromise your health.
• The base is versatile and induction-compatible. Suitable for all cooktops. 
• Includes: 1.5QT Saucepan w/Steamer, 2QT Saucepan, 5QT Stockpot, 2QT Sauté Pan, 7” Fry Pan, 9.5” Fry Pan, 9.5” Crepe Pan, 4 Lids & 4 Utensils
• Comes with ergonomic cool-touch handles.
• Transparent lids so you can see what you’re cooking. 
• Dishwasher safe (hand wash recommended for longer lifetime).
• Functional and stylish with different colors to choose from. 

Customer Reviews

Customers like you who reviewed this best cookware set love it for making large meals. Because it’s not made with chemicals, you get the knowledge of knowing you and your family will be healthy. 

Buy Now: Ivation Ceramic Cookware, 16-Piece

Best Cast Iron Set

Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Set

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Having a cast iron set is a staple for every homeowner. With cast iron, you get an even heat conduction with quality tasting meals. This best cookware set gives you the staples for cooking great meals at home for an affordable price. 

Features & Specifications

• This 5-piece set is seasoned with 100% vegetable oil. 
• Comes with self-basting tips. 
• The handles are easy and secure to control. 
• The best heat retention and even heating. 
• Sear, sauté, simmer, bake, broil, braise, roast, fry, and grill. 
• You can use these pans anywhere – from the stove to the grill, oven, and even on a campfire. 
• Great to use on induction cooktops. 

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love this best cookware set because it is a staple for every home. As long as you treat cast iron products properly, you can have them in your home for years to come. Pro tip: bake and oil down with your favorite seasoning oil like olive oil. Never soak in water. 

Buy Now: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Set

Best Stainless Steel Set

Paderno 11-Piece Stainless-Steel Cookware Set

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The best stainless steel cookware set on our list is this Paderno 11-piece set. This best cookware set is at a value price and is built to last.  

Features & Specifications

• Stainless steel clad that is durable and cooks optimally. 
• 18/10 non-reactive premium food grade stainless steel to preserve food flavor and quality. 
• Stay-cool handles to dissipate stove heat. 
• Oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Dishwasher safe, though hand washing in warm and soapy water is best. 
• Comes with three saucepans (1.3 Liters, 2 Liters, 3 Liters), 5 Liter Dutch Oven, 2 Liter Steamer, 2 Liter Sauté Pan, and 5 Stainless-Steel Lids
• Comes with three saucepans

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love this best cookware set because it lasts long and is well-priced. You’ll love the versatility of being able to cook great-quality foods with every piece. 

Buy Now: Paderno 11-Piece Stainless-Steel Cookware Set

Honorable Mention

Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad Cookware Set, 10 Piece

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We couldn’t end our list of best cookware sets without this Viking Culinary three-ply stainless steel hammered copper clad cookware set. This 10-piece set is stylish and is professional grade. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll love cooking with this set. 

Features & Specifications

• Made with a layer of aluminum sandwiched between a copper exterior and stainless steel interior for the best performance. 
• Exceptional heat distribution throughout the pans. 
• Vented glass lids allow you to see what you’re cooking with a flared seamless lid for not boiling over. 
• Comes with ergonomic stay-cool handles that are stylish and individual to Viking. 
• Built-in heat break makes them easy to lift and control. 
• Internal volume measurements make cooking easy. 
• Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Includes: 8 quart stock pot with glass lid, 5. 2 quart sauté pan with glass lid, 2. 25 quart and 3 quart sauce pans with glass lids, 8 inch and 10 inch fry pans.
• Compatible with all cooking surfaces (does not include induction heating). 

Customer Reviews

Customers like you love how beautiful this best cooking set looks while cooking meals professionally. The hammered copper does require some work to keep looking new and many recommend cleaning with Barkeepers Friend cleaning products. 

Buy Now: Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad Cookware Set, 10 Piece

 

FAQ: Best Kitchen Cookware 

What’s the best cookware material?

The best cooking material depends on preference. Though, the best quality material for cooking is stainless steel. Stainless steel makes everything you cook better since it doesn’t come with chemicals. And stainless steel is also easy to clean and lasts a lifetime. 

A good alternative is ceramic for being so easy to clean and non-stick. That means there won’t be much left on your pots and pans at the end of your meal. 

Best cookware material for health?

The best cookware material for health is either stainless steel, ceramic non-stick, or cast iron. As long as the product you choose is not made of chemicals that are known to harm humans, you will have the best cooking material on the market. 

Looking for More Cooking?

Check out our different kitchen appliances and accessories guides and product reviews. When you’re ready, check out our collection of recipes.