The 6 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets [Shopping Guide]

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If you love to cook there are a few must-haves you need in the kitchen. One, a great set of knives with a sharpening tool. Two, a never-ending supply of spices. And three, a top-notch set of pots and pans.

Today we’re talking about the latter: stainless steel cookware sets.

If you’re in the market for a new set of pots and pans, here are the best stainless steel cookware sets that will make you feel like Rachael Ray in the kitchen.

What to Look For in a Cookware Set

There are tons of different stainless steel cookware sets out there. They come with different items in varying sizes. They’re made from different materials (yes, there are different types of stainless steel). And they range in price from as little as $50 to upwards of $4,000.

Before you shell out your hard-earned money for a set, here’s what you need to know:

There are a variety of different metal compounds that make stainless steel. For cookware, look for 18/10 stainless. This compound includes 18% chromium and 10% nickel, so you’ll never have to worry about rust or corrosion.

Stainless steel cookware is constructed in different ways, and some include multiple layers of different metals. Look for stainless steel sets made with an aluminum or copper core – these will help disperse heat evenly throughout your pots and pans.

It’s also important to buy a set that includes the sizes and shapes of the pots and pans you like to cook in.

For example, you don’t need an 18” saute pan if the only thing you ever cook is a scrambled egg. On the other hand, you won’t be able to cook a spaghetti dinner for eight people if the largest pot you have holds two quarts of water.

Keep in mind, a ten-piece set doesn’t mean you’re getting five pots and five pans. In most cases, you’ll get five pieces of cookware and five lids.

And lastly, pay attention to the little details. Make sure the lids fit tightly and that the handles are sturdy!

Now that you know what to look for, here are six amazing stainless steel cookware sets that meet these key requirements.

KitchenAid 5 Ply Copper Core 10 Piece Set

The KitchenAid 5 Ply Copper Core 10 Piece Set is a home cook’s semi-affordable dream. This set is dishwasher safe, oven safe up to 500 degrees, and constructed with super sturdy, welded handles.

The 5 ply design makes it extra effective, with one layer of 18/10 stainless, two layers of aluminum, one layer of copper in the center, and one layer of 18/0 stainless on the bottom for use on all cooktops, including induction surfaces.

 Priced at $799.99, this set includes:

• 8” skillet
• 10” skillet
• 1.5 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saucepan with lid
• 3.5 quart saute pan with lid
• 8 quart stockpot with lid

Le Creuset Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set

The Le Creuset Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set is functional, beautiful, and coveted by home cooks and pro chefs alike. It’s constructed with an aluminum core and designed with an extra layer of magnetic stainless so you can use it on induction cooktops.

The lids are vented, the rims are flared for drip-free pouring, and the lids have the iconic triple ring Le Creuset design, giving them that signature look that we all love making it one of the best cookware sets available.

Priced at $1,215, this set includes:

• 10” fry pan
• 2 quart saucepan with lid
• 4 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saute pan with lid
• 9 quart pot with lid and strainer insert

You might also be interested in: How to Season and Clean a Cast Iron Skillet 

All-Clad d5 Brushed Stainless Steel 10 Piece Set

Designed to withstand oven temps up to 600 degrees, the All-Clad d5 Brushed Stainless Steel 10 Piece Set features 5 ply bonded construction made from 18/10 stainless with layers of aluminum for maximum efficiency and heat distribution.

This oven-safe set has flared pouring rims, sturdy stainless steel handles, and flat lids make it an ideal option for the home cook looking to perfect their kitchen skills.

Priced at $1,430, this set includes:

• 8” frying pan
• 10” frying pan
• 1.5 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saute pan with lid
• 8 quart stockpot with lid

Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set

The Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set is by far the most affordable set on this list. And while it lacks some of the features of the more notable brands, it’s a viable option, especially for amateur cooks who are just learning their way around the kitchen.

These pots and pans feature an impact-bonded aluminum base, pour spouts, and coordinating lids with straining holes so you can empty water without having to use a separate colander.

Though it may not be as impressive as some of the other options on this list, it’s a nice little set that most people can afford.

Priced at $199.99, this set includes:

• 8” frying pan
• 10” frying pan
• 1.5 quart saucepan with lid
• 2.5 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saute pan with lid
• 6 quart stockpot with lid

Viking Professional 5 Ply 10 Piece Set

Viking is best known for high-end ovens that cost $10-$20k. But for the 99% of us who can’t afford those, they also make a pretty serious (and stylish) line of cookware. The Viking Professional 5 Ply 10 Piece Set is a professional grade set designed for use in any home or commercial kitchen.

Made from 18/10 stainless, it features an aluminum core, a bonded aluminum alloy layer, and a magnetic stainless steel exterior safe for use on induction cooktops (as well as gas and electric stovetops).

Priced at $899.99, this set includes:

• 8” frying pan
• 10” frying pan
• 2 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saucepan with lid
• 3.4 quart saute pan with lid
• 8 quart stockpot with lid

Cuisinart 77-10 Chef’s Classic Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set

Cuisinart is one of the most trusted cookware sets in the kitchen. And the Cuisinart 77-10 Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set has everything a home cook or home chef could need. This stainless steel set is a best-seller for many reasons. It has a lifetime warranty, is dishwasher safe and stain-resistant, which means this heavy-duty set should last you a long time.

The Cuisinart set is definitely the most affordable option on our list.

Priced at $134.99, this set includes: 

• 8″ frying pan
• 10″ frying pan
• 1.5 quart saucepan with lid
• 3 quart saucepan with lid
• 8 quart stockpot with lid

What are the Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets?

A great stainless steel cookware set can set you back several hundred dollars, but if you buy a high-quality, heavy-duty brand, it can last a lifetime.

If you’re on a budget or don’t cook that often, buying one or two individual pots or pans may seem like the better option. After all, you can always add to your collection and buy additional pieces in future years …

While buying one pot here and one pot there can save you money now, this isn’t the best route to go.

Before you start buying one stainless steel pan at a time, remember this:

Stainless steel cookware sets can be pricey, but they’re always more affordable than if you were to buy all of the individual pieces on their own.

You might also be interested in: The 14 Best Kitchen Gadgets for Your Home

The Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets: 

• KitchenAid 5 Ply Copper Core 10 Piece Set
• Le Creuset Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set
• All-Clad d5 Brushed Stainless Steel 10 Piece Set
• Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set
• Viking Professional 5 Ply 10 Piece Set
• Cuisinart 77-10 Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set