Cookware sets 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, 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 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
The Our Place Home Cook Duo ($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.
This gorgeous 5-Piece Signature Set by Le Creuset ($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.
Not only is the Blue Diamond Cookware set ($300) made of an incredible coating that prevents scratches, it's also dishwasher and oven safe.
This Food 52 Five Two Essential Cookware Set ($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.
With its matte black finish, this Scanpan Classic 8-Piece Set ($450, originally $994) will be a stylish addition to your kitchen. Each piece allows for browning, searing, and even deglazing.
This GreenPan Reserve Nonstick 10 Piece Cookware Set ($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.
This lovely Caraway Cookware Set ($395, originally $545) will be the talk of the dinner party. It has nontoxic coating.
This Great Jones Family Style ($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.
This Williams Sonoma Open Kitchen Stainless-Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set ($300, originally $450) is significantly marked down, making it a relative steal. It delivers professional-level performance with a classic style.
Functional, with a timeless look, this Made In Starter Set ($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.