Cookware sets [1] can be tricky kitchen tools to shop for, since they come in a variety of materials and designs. That's why its best to shop for what you need. Cook a lot of eggs? Nonstick surfaces are nonnegotiable. Love a good steak? Get a cast-iron skillet. When it comes to shopping high-performing cookware sets [2], ease of use, durability, and the required cooking temperature are just a few factors to consider.
Over the years, we've learned a thing or two about selecting high-quality cookware sets for both beginners [3] and established home chefs. Because most sets tend to command a premium, being critical while shopping is paramount, since you likely won't be looking to replace yours every year. We've rounded up a few bestselling options (that we want for ourselves) available at different price points. Shop them all ahead.
— Additional reporting by Shelcy Joseph
A Minimalist Cooking Set: Our Place Home Cook Duo
The Our Place Home Cook Duo [5] ($240, originally $310) might look like an ordinary pot and a pan, but it's actually thoughtfully designed to replace 16 pieces of traditional cookware. The entire cooking system can bake, sauté, crisp, boil, steam, and more.
A Cast-Iron Set: 5-Piece Signature Set by Le Creuset
This gorgeous 5-Piece Signature Set by Le Creuset [6] ($550, originally $780) is made from Le Creuset's famous cast-iron material, which is known for its incredible heat retention. The set includes cast-iron pots and pans, as well as an eye-grabbing dutch oven.
A 15-Piece Set: Blue Diamond Cookware
Not only is the Blue Diamond Cookware set [7] ($300) made of an incredible coating that prevents scratches, it's also dishwasher and oven safe.
A Bestselling Set: Food 52 Five Two Essential Cookware Set
This Food 52 Five Two Essential Cookware Set [8] ($69-$429) has all your cooking needs covered. From functionality to design to the perfected functionality, it's the epitome of Food52's kitchen know-how.
A Cool Black Finish: Scanpan Classic 8-Piece Set
With its matte black finish, this Scanpan Classic 8-Piece Set [9] ($450, originally $994) will be a stylish addition to your kitchen. Each piece allows for browning, searing, and even deglazing.
Elegant Colors: GreenPan Reserve Nonstick 10 Piece Cookware Set
This GreenPan Reserve Nonstick 10 Piece Cookware Set [10] ($400) comes in incredible colors. We love the cookware's elegant finish and brass handles. The best part? You can throw them in the dishwasher once you're done cooking.
For Green-Lovers: Caraway Cookware Set
This lovely Caraway Cookware Set [11] ($395, originally $545) will be the talk of the dinner party. It has nontoxic coating.
The Complete Package: Great Jones Family Style
This Great Jones Family Style [12] ($395, originally $495) set includes a mix of cast-iron and stainless-steel products. Modern, with an industrial sensibility, it's all you'll ever need.
A Good Deal: Williams Sonoma Open Kitchen Stainless-Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
This Williams Sonoma Open Kitchen Stainless-Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set [13] ($300, originally $450) is significantly marked down, making it a relative steal. It delivers professional-level performance with a classic style.
A Classic Look: Made In Starter Set
Functional, with a timeless look, this Made In Starter Set [14] ($399, originally $442) will set you up to experiment in the kitchen. It features two frying pans, a saucepan, and a stock pot. It's ideal for those who live alone or who cook for smaller groups of people.