5 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets, According to Expert Testing
Plus, some tips and tricks on how to clean and cook with stainless steel cookware.
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Stainless steel cookware can handle high temperatures, is very durable and will last you for years. Whether you are searing steak in a skillet, boiling water in a stock pot or simmering pasta sauce in a saucepan, a high-quality stainless steel cookware set will provide a great foundation for years of amazing meals. If you didn't already need more reasons to make the investment, most stainless steel cookware sets on this list are induction-compatible and dishwasher- and oven-safe.
Our top picks:
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we've tested more than 115 cookware sets since 2015 in a variety of cookware materials, including stainless steel, cast-iron, carbon steel and nonstick pans, plus more specific types of cookware like Dutch ovens and grill pans. When we evaluate cookware we assess factors like how evenly they heat, how well they brown a steak and how easily they clean up. The best stainless steel cookware heats evenly, can handle high-heat jobs and isn't a burden to clean.
Read on after our picks for more info on how we tested stainless steel cookware sets and what you should look for when shopping for them. We also share expert tips on how to clean stainless steel pans and the best quality of stainless steel for cooking. Looking to compare cookware sets? Check out our guides to the best nonstick cookware, ceramic cookware and copper cookware.
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.
Eva (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she tests kitchen gear, home appliances and culinary innovations. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor of science in food studies, nutrition and public health and is a trained chef through the Natural Gourmet Institute. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.
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