We buy and test cookware sets costing less than $100 to $600 or more from well-known brands such as All-Clad, Calphalon, Cuisinart, and Le Creuset. If you go that route, here are the basic pieces you need, plus why you should consider a Dutch oven. If you decide to buy Cuisinart stainless steel cookware, it’s worth investing in a fully-clad collection, such as Multiclad Pro.
The aluminum core is covered with thick stainless steel, which gives it a mirror-like shine. There is an aluminum disc on the base that makes sure it reaches maximum efficiency when cooking food. All-Clad is a premium brand that is considered the gold standard in multi-clad cookware.
However, we did test the All-Clad Copper Core 10-Piece Cookware Set because it has a stainless steel exterior. If you have a gas stove or you want durability and a nonstick surface all in one, your best option is the hard-anodized. If you hate to clean the leftovers and using the dishwasher -which consumes energy and water- you should pick the ceramic one. These are definitely resistant handles but are a little uncomfortable to use.
But we’ve been disappointed to find more and more sets—including the All-Clad and Tramontina ones we recommend—moving toward offering only 8- and 10-inch skillets. This is partly what made us excited about our new budget pick, the Goldilocks set, which is one of the only cuisinart griddler elite sets we’ve seen lately that includes both 10- and 12-inch pans. Many sets also have 6-quart stockpots; these are too small for making large batches of stock (8-quart or larger stockpots are best for preparing stocks, and they provide ample room for boiling pasta).
But beware that Chef’s Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized set has metal handles and lids that can heat up quickly. As Australia’s #1 kitchenware retailer we offer a huge range of products from top brands and provide expert advice to our customers. We never want price to be the reason you shop elsewhere so if you do find a lower price on a competitor’s site or store, we’ll match it for you.