The 9 Best Nonstick Cookware Sets We Tested Include Le Creuset, Caraway, and More

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsOthers We RecommendWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Others We Recommend

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Will Dickey

People / Will Dickey

Whether you regularly curate restaurant-worthy meals for your family and friends or you impress yourself with anicely fried eggin the morning, every home cook needs a reliable set of pots and pans.Nonstick cookware is a popular option because it’s easy to maintain, it tends to be lightweight, and it requires less cooking fat. Of course, there’s a wide range of quality, durability, and performance in the world of nonstick pots and pans.The Best Right NowDon’t feel like scrolling? Our top-performing nonstick cookware set is theLe Creuset Toughened Pro Cookware Set. But if you want to spend a bit less, we recommend theAmazon Basics 15-Piece Nonstick Cookware Setas our best budget pick.We tested 16 popular sets of nonstick cookware to find the best options for every kitchen. We scrambled and fried sticky eggs, boiled water, and simmered rice to identify the most user-friendly, durable, and high-performing sets. Read on to learn how we tested the best nonstick cookware and which products lived up to their promises.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$420Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Amazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Steel:SALEMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set at Madeincookware.com$726$599Jump to ReviewMost Versatile:Rachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$180Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$200Jump to ReviewBest Dishwasher-Safe:Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$240Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:SALEFarberware Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$80$50Jump to ReviewBest for the Serious Chef:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$580Jump to Review

Whether you regularly curate restaurant-worthy meals for your family and friends or you impress yourself with anicely fried eggin the morning, every home cook needs a reliable set of pots and pans.

Nonstick cookware is a popular option because it’s easy to maintain, it tends to be lightweight, and it requires less cooking fat. Of course, there’s a wide range of quality, durability, and performance in the world of nonstick pots and pans.

The Best Right NowDon’t feel like scrolling? Our top-performing nonstick cookware set is theLe Creuset Toughened Pro Cookware Set. But if you want to spend a bit less, we recommend theAmazon Basics 15-Piece Nonstick Cookware Setas our best budget pick.

The Best Right Now

Don’t feel like scrolling? Our top-performing nonstick cookware set is theLe Creuset Toughened Pro Cookware Set. But if you want to spend a bit less, we recommend theAmazon Basics 15-Piece Nonstick Cookware Setas our best budget pick.

We tested 16 popular sets of nonstick cookware to find the best options for every kitchen. We scrambled and fried sticky eggs, boiled water, and simmered rice to identify the most user-friendly, durable, and high-performing sets. Read on to learn how we tested the best nonstick cookware and which products lived up to their promises.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$420Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Amazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Steel:SALEMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set at Madeincookware.com$726$599Jump to ReviewMost Versatile:Rachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$180Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$200Jump to ReviewBest Dishwasher-Safe:Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$240Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:SALEFarberware Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$80$50Jump to ReviewBest for the Serious Chef:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$580Jump to Review

Best Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$420Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Amazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest Ceramic:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to ReviewBest Stainless Steel:SALEMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set at Madeincookware.com$726$599Jump to ReviewMost Versatile:Rachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$180Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$200Jump to ReviewBest Dishwasher-Safe:Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$240Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:SALEFarberware Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$80$50Jump to ReviewBest for the Serious Chef:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$580Jump to Review

Best Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$420Jump to Review

Best Overall:Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set at Amazon$420

Best Overall:

Best Budget:Amazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$50Jump to Review

Best Budget:Amazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$50

Best Budget:

Best Ceramic:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395Jump to Review

Best Ceramic:Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set at Amazon$395

Best Ceramic:

Best Stainless Steel:SALEMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set at Madeincookware.com$726$599Jump to Review

Best Stainless Steel:SALEMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set at Madeincookware.com$726$599

Best Stainless Steel:

SALE

Most Versatile:Rachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$180Jump to Review

Most Versatile:Rachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$180

Most Versatile:

Best for Beginners:Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$200Jump to Review

Best for Beginners:Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$200

Best for Beginners:

Best Dishwasher-Safe:Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$240Jump to Review

Best Dishwasher-Safe:Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$240

Best Dishwasher-Safe:

Best Lightweight:SALEFarberware Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$80$50Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:SALEFarberware Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$80$50

Best Lightweight:

Best for the Serious Chef:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$580Jump to Review

Best for the Serious Chef:Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set at Amazon$580

Best for the Serious Chef:

Best OverallLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$420 at Amazon$595$420 at Nordstrom$420 at QVCStar QualitiesSuper-slick nonstick surfaceComfortable stay-cool handlesDishwasher-safeRed FlagsPans are heavyLe Creuset is one of the most trusted names in the industry. This six-piece set is every bit as reliable, durable, and efficient as you expect from this legacy brand. The comprehensive set includes an 8-inch fry pan, 11-inch fry pan, 3-quart saucepan, and 4.25-quart saute pan.During testing, the hard-anodized aluminum construction heated quickly, uniformly, and efficiently. We never had awkward hot spots that cooked food unevenly. The surface is super slick, so eggs and rice slid off easily. We love that the ergonomically designed handles are easy to hold and maneuver and that they never get hot during cooking.This set is versatile enough to accomplish nearly any kitchen task. Each piece is oven-safe up to 500 degrees or 425 degrees with the included glass lids. They’re compatible with induction stoves and even resistant to scratching from metal utensils. The price is on the higher end, but we think it’s worth every penny.Testers Say“It seems that with the variety of pots, pans, skillets, and sizes this set would be great for pretty much anything. Browning, searing, roasting, soups, stews, boiling, frying, sautéing, egg cooking, and can even be transferred to the oven with a heat threshold of 500 degrees.”Nonstick Coating Material:Hard-anodized aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (425 degrees with lids, 500 degrees without lids) |Pans Included:4 |Lids Included:2PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Jen Causey

Best OverallLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$420 at Amazon$595$420 at Nordstrom$420 at QVC

Best OverallLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set

Best Overall

Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set

PHOTO: Amazon

$420 at Amazon$595$420 at Nordstrom$420 at QVC

Star QualitiesSuper-slick nonstick surfaceComfortable stay-cool handlesDishwasher-safeRed FlagsPans are heavy

Star QualitiesSuper-slick nonstick surfaceComfortable stay-cool handlesDishwasher-safe

Super-slick nonstick surface

Comfortable stay-cool handles

Dishwasher-safe

Red FlagsPans are heavy

Pans are heavy

Le Creuset is one of the most trusted names in the industry. This six-piece set is every bit as reliable, durable, and efficient as you expect from this legacy brand. The comprehensive set includes an 8-inch fry pan, 11-inch fry pan, 3-quart saucepan, and 4.25-quart saute pan.

During testing, the hard-anodized aluminum construction heated quickly, uniformly, and efficiently. We never had awkward hot spots that cooked food unevenly. The surface is super slick, so eggs and rice slid off easily. We love that the ergonomically designed handles are easy to hold and maneuver and that they never get hot during cooking.

This set is versatile enough to accomplish nearly any kitchen task. Each piece is oven-safe up to 500 degrees or 425 degrees with the included glass lids. They’re compatible with induction stoves and even resistant to scratching from metal utensils. The price is on the higher end, but we think it’s worth every penny.

Testers Say“It seems that with the variety of pots, pans, skillets, and sizes this set would be great for pretty much anything. Browning, searing, roasting, soups, stews, boiling, frying, sautéing, egg cooking, and can even be transferred to the oven with a heat threshold of 500 degrees.”

Testers Say

“It seems that with the variety of pots, pans, skillets, and sizes this set would be great for pretty much anything. Browning, searing, roasting, soups, stews, boiling, frying, sautéing, egg cooking, and can even be transferred to the oven with a heat threshold of 500 degrees.”

Nonstick Coating Material:Hard-anodized aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (425 degrees with lids, 500 degrees without lids) |Pans Included:4 |Lids Included:2

PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Jen Causey

Best BudgetAmazon Basics Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$50 at AmazonStar QualitiesNo issues with food stickingLightweight and easy to cleanIncludes utensilsEven, rapid heatingRed FlagsNot dishwasher- or induction-safeSmall handles are uncomfortable to holdThis simple set of pans performs exceptionally well without breaking the bank. With 15 pieces, including six pans, four lids, and handy utensils, you can fully equip a new kitchen with one easy purchase. During testing, even a sticky fried egg slid out easily, and we didn’t detect any hotspots. Each item pan quickly and evenly and nothing burned.These pots and pans have a simple design and perform great on the stove and in the oven (up to 425 degrees) at an affordable price. That said, they’re not dishwasher-safe or induction-compatible.Testers Say“I would recommend this product to someone who is looking for a starter cooking set or a supplementary cooking set, say students getting an apartment or a dorm, a cook set that someone uses in their RV.”Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (425 degrees with lids, 500 degrees without lids) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best BudgetAmazon Basics Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon

Best BudgetAmazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set

Best Budget

Amazon Basics Nonstick Cookware Set

$50 at Amazon

Star QualitiesNo issues with food stickingLightweight and easy to cleanIncludes utensilsEven, rapid heatingRed FlagsNot dishwasher- or induction-safeSmall handles are uncomfortable to hold

Star QualitiesNo issues with food stickingLightweight and easy to cleanIncludes utensilsEven, rapid heating

No issues with food sticking

Lightweight and easy to clean

Includes utensils

Even, rapid heating

Red FlagsNot dishwasher- or induction-safeSmall handles are uncomfortable to hold

Not dishwasher- or induction-safe

Small handles are uncomfortable to hold

This simple set of pans performs exceptionally well without breaking the bank. With 15 pieces, including six pans, four lids, and handy utensils, you can fully equip a new kitchen with one easy purchase. During testing, even a sticky fried egg slid out easily, and we didn’t detect any hotspots. Each item pan quickly and evenly and nothing burned.

These pots and pans have a simple design and perform great on the stove and in the oven (up to 425 degrees) at an affordable price. That said, they’re not dishwasher-safe or induction-compatible.

Testers Say“I would recommend this product to someone who is looking for a starter cooking set or a supplementary cooking set, say students getting an apartment or a dorm, a cook set that someone uses in their RV.”

“I would recommend this product to someone who is looking for a starter cooking set or a supplementary cooking set, say students getting an apartment or a dorm, a cook set that someone uses in their RV.”

Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (425 degrees with lids, 500 degrees without lids) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4

PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best CeramicCaraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$395 at Amazon$395 at Nordstrom$395 at Target

Best CeramicCaraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set

Best Ceramic

Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set

$395 at Amazon$395 at Nordstrom$395 at Target

Star QualitiesSuper easy to cleanIncluded magnetic organizers are great for storageFood slides out with easeRed FlagsExterior may stain

Star QualitiesSuper easy to cleanIncluded magnetic organizers are great for storageFood slides out with ease

Super easy to clean

Included magnetic organizers are great for storage

Food slides out with ease

Red FlagsExterior may stain

Exterior may stain

The skillets and saucepans in this aesthetic set from Caraway are easy to use and clean, and they look great in the kitchen. We especially love the magnetic organizers they come with; pots and pans can be tough to store neatly, but not this set (of course, you’ll need the cabinet or drawer space to set up the organizer system).

If you’re looking for a set that includes aDutch oven, this 12-piece set includes 6.5-quart lidded one as well as a 10.5-inch frying pan, a 3-quart lidded saucepan, and a 4.5-quart lidded saute pan. Everything is oven-safe up to 550 degrees. Our tester did note that one of her terracotta-colored pans became stained with curry that she’s never been able to wash off.

A major bonus? This cookware set is free of potentially toxic chemicals, including heavy metals and PFAS (or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which may be harmful over time.

“I grew up using T-Fal, so nonstick cookware is non-negotiable, and having a pretty kitchen is also non-negotiable. Caraway solves both of these problems for me.” —Erin Johnson, associate editorial director

Nonstick Coating Material:PFOA-free ceramic |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (550 degrees) |Pans Included:4 |Lids Included:3

Best Stainless SteelMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$726$599 at Madeincookware.comStar QualitiesHeavy-duty, durable materialsSuper-slick nonstick surfacePFOA-free and nontoxicLarger pots and pans than other setsRed FlagsSlightly heavier cookwareNot dishwasher-safeMade In’s line of cookware has the gleam and durability of professional stainless steel with an incredibly slick nonstick aluminum coating that makes cleanup easy. This seven-piece set includes a deep stockpot, a frying pan, a high-sided skillet, and a saucepan. Each piece conducts heat quickly and evenly without hot spots. We scrambled eggs without oil and served them up without leaving messy residue in the pan.This heavy-duty cookware is heavier than other options, but we love that the pots and pans are also larger. You can sear multiple chicken breasts or thighs in the 10-inch frying pan without overcrowding. The chic set is available in two stylish colors and is free of PFOAs. Keep in mind that this set is not dishwasher-safe and should not be used with metal utensils.Testers Say“Most of the pans came clean with just a wipe of a paper towel before even washing them. The washing took less than a minute, and there aren’t many places for food or water to gather.”Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (500 degrees) |Pans Included:4 |Lids Included:3PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best Stainless SteelMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$726$599 at Madeincookware.com

Best Stainless SteelMade In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set

Best Stainless Steel

Made In ProCoat 6-Piece Non Stick Cookware Set

$726$599 at Madeincookware.com

Star QualitiesHeavy-duty, durable materialsSuper-slick nonstick surfacePFOA-free and nontoxicLarger pots and pans than other setsRed FlagsSlightly heavier cookwareNot dishwasher-safe

Star QualitiesHeavy-duty, durable materialsSuper-slick nonstick surfacePFOA-free and nontoxicLarger pots and pans than other sets

Heavy-duty, durable materials

PFOA-free and nontoxic

Larger pots and pans than other sets

Red FlagsSlightly heavier cookwareNot dishwasher-safe

Slightly heavier cookware

Not dishwasher-safe

Made In’s line of cookware has the gleam and durability of professional stainless steel with an incredibly slick nonstick aluminum coating that makes cleanup easy. This seven-piece set includes a deep stockpot, a frying pan, a high-sided skillet, and a saucepan. Each piece conducts heat quickly and evenly without hot spots. We scrambled eggs without oil and served them up without leaving messy residue in the pan.

This heavy-duty cookware is heavier than other options, but we love that the pots and pans are also larger. You can sear multiple chicken breasts or thighs in the 10-inch frying pan without overcrowding. The chic set is available in two stylish colors and is free of PFOAs. Keep in mind that this set is not dishwasher-safe and should not be used with metal utensils.

Testers Say“Most of the pans came clean with just a wipe of a paper towel before even washing them. The washing took less than a minute, and there aren’t many places for food or water to gather.”

“Most of the pans came clean with just a wipe of a paper towel before even washing them. The washing took less than a minute, and there aren’t many places for food or water to gather.”

Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (500 degrees) |Pans Included:4 |Lids Included:3

Most VersatileRachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Rachel Ray$180$167 at AmazonView on Rachaelray.comStar QualitiesFive fun color options10- and 11-piece set optionsIncludes a baking sheetRed FlagsNot induction-compatibleOnly includes 2 lids for 5 pots and pansDuring testing, our oil-free eggs and rice pilaf slid easily out of these pans without leaving a sticky mess. We didn’t detect any hotspots and each piece heated evenly and thoroughly. Water came to a boil in about six minutes in the stockpot, but only held its temperature for three, which is shorter than other more heavy-duty products we tested. Each piece has a sturdy silicone handle that stays cool. This affordable collection is great for beginners or home cooks in need of a versatile set. Note that the pieces are not dishwasher-safe or induction-compatible.Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Tempered glass with silicone rim |Oven-Safe:Yes (450 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:2PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Most VersatileRachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Rachel Ray$180$167 at AmazonView on Rachaelray.com

Most VersatileRachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set

Most Versatile

Rachael Ray Cook + Create Nonstick Cookware Set

PHOTO: Rachel Ray

$180$167 at AmazonView on Rachaelray.com

Star QualitiesFive fun color options10- and 11-piece set optionsIncludes a baking sheetRed FlagsNot induction-compatibleOnly includes 2 lids for 5 pots and pans

Star QualitiesFive fun color options10- and 11-piece set optionsIncludes a baking sheet

Five fun color options

10- and 11-piece set options

Includes a baking sheet

Red FlagsNot induction-compatibleOnly includes 2 lids for 5 pots and pans

Not induction-compatible

Only includes 2 lids for 5 pots and pans

During testing, our oil-free eggs and rice pilaf slid easily out of these pans without leaving a sticky mess. We didn’t detect any hotspots and each piece heated evenly and thoroughly. Water came to a boil in about six minutes in the stockpot, but only held its temperature for three, which is shorter than other more heavy-duty products we tested. Each piece has a sturdy silicone handle that stays cool. This affordable collection is great for beginners or home cooks in need of a versatile set. Note that the pieces are not dishwasher-safe or induction-compatible.

Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Tempered glass with silicone rim |Oven-Safe:Yes (450 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:2

PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best for BeginnersAyesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$200$183 at Amazon$200 at Target$183 at WalmartStar QualitiesStylish matte exteriorLarge helper handles for a safe, sturdy gripEasily hand-washedRed FlagsNot induction-compatibleWith a super-slick surface, six versatile pieces, and an affordable price, this nonstick cookware set offers great value. The long silicone-coat handles stay cool during cooking and smaller helper handles ensure a sturdy, comfortable grip, even with oven mitts on or a full, heavy pot of food.These pots and pans have a sleek black matte exterior that looks great on the stove. During testing, we experienced minimal sticking from the eggs cooked without oil, and the minor food residue came off easily with soap and water. These pans are not induction-safe or dishwasher-safe.Testers Say“This cookware set is durable and performed as well as some other brands that are much higher priced.”Nonstick Coating Material:Hard-anodized aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (400 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best for BeginnersAyesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$200$183 at Amazon$200 at Target$183 at Walmart

Best for BeginnersAyesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set

Best for Beginners

Ayesha Curry Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set

$200$183 at Amazon$200 at Target$183 at Walmart

Star QualitiesStylish matte exteriorLarge helper handles for a safe, sturdy gripEasily hand-washedRed FlagsNot induction-compatible

Star QualitiesStylish matte exteriorLarge helper handles for a safe, sturdy gripEasily hand-washed

Stylish matte exterior

Large helper handles for a safe, sturdy grip

Easily hand-washed

Red FlagsNot induction-compatible

With a super-slick surface, six versatile pieces, and an affordable price, this nonstick cookware set offers great value. The long silicone-coat handles stay cool during cooking and smaller helper handles ensure a sturdy, comfortable grip, even with oven mitts on or a full, heavy pot of food.

These pots and pans have a sleek black matte exterior that looks great on the stove. During testing, we experienced minimal sticking from the eggs cooked without oil, and the minor food residue came off easily with soap and water. These pans are not induction-safe or dishwasher-safe.

Testers Say“This cookware set is durable and performed as well as some other brands that are much higher priced.”

“This cookware set is durable and performed as well as some other brands that are much higher priced.”

Nonstick Coating Material:Hard-anodized aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (400 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4

Best Dishwasher-SafeCalphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$240 at Amazon$230 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair

Best Dishwasher-SafeCalphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set

Best Dishwasher-Safe

Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set

$240 at Amazon$230 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair

Super lightweight

The surface of this nonstick set from Calphalon is so slick that food wipes out easily with a cloth (though you can also pop them in the dishwasher). This is also one of the most lightweight sets we tested. It’s easy to maneuver these pots and pans from stovetop to oven to sink, even when full of food.

During testing, water came to a boil in about seven minutes in the stockpot and held its temperature steady for 15 minutes. Each piece is oven-safe up to 450 degrees, and the set includes four super-clear tempered glass lids that allow you to keep an eye on what’s cooking without letting heat escape. The set includes two frying pans (8 and 10 inches), a 3-quart high-sided saute pan, two saucepans (1.5 and 2.5 quarts), and a 6-quart stock pot.

Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (450 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4

Best LightweightFarberware Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$80$50 at Amazon$92 at Walmart$50 at WayfairStar QualitiesOne of the most affordable and largest sets we testedShatterproof glass lidsIncludes five nylon utensilsAngled edges for more comfortable cookingRed FlagsFood gets stuck around the rivets, making cleaning a challengeThis affordable set is completely comprehensive and includes pots, pans, lids, a sheet pan, and four utensils. The nonstick surface is super slick. We had no trouble cooking and cleaning rice or eggs without oil. The edges of the skillets and saucepans are gently sloped, which makes it easier to stir food and transfer your dish to a plate.This Farberware set is also very lightweight, so the pieces are comfortable to maneuver in the kitchen, to the dining table, or in the sink, even when filled with food. Our biggest complaint is that food tended to get stuck in the rivets, which made them harder to clean. They’re also not the most efficient or durable pans we tested — the lightweight handles make them feel a little cheap.Testers Say“I’m pleasantly surprised at the price of this set compared to the control I got from the heat disbursement. The results spoke for themselves, cooking everything without burning or overly browning. Things took a little longer than expected, but they cooked well and the nonstick properties held up throughout the tests.”Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Tempered glass with silicone rim |Oven-Safe:Yes (350 degrees, bakeware up to 450 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best LightweightFarberware Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$80$50 at Amazon$92 at Walmart$50 at Wayfair

Best LightweightFarberware Nonstick Cookware Set

Best Lightweight

Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set

$80$50 at Amazon$92 at Walmart$50 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesOne of the most affordable and largest sets we testedShatterproof glass lidsIncludes five nylon utensilsAngled edges for more comfortable cookingRed FlagsFood gets stuck around the rivets, making cleaning a challenge

Star QualitiesOne of the most affordable and largest sets we testedShatterproof glass lidsIncludes five nylon utensilsAngled edges for more comfortable cooking

One of the most affordable and largest sets we tested

Shatterproof glass lids

Includes five nylon utensils

Angled edges for more comfortable cooking

Red FlagsFood gets stuck around the rivets, making cleaning a challenge

Food gets stuck around the rivets, making cleaning a challenge

This affordable set is completely comprehensive and includes pots, pans, lids, a sheet pan, and four utensils. The nonstick surface is super slick. We had no trouble cooking and cleaning rice or eggs without oil. The edges of the skillets and saucepans are gently sloped, which makes it easier to stir food and transfer your dish to a plate.

This Farberware set is also very lightweight, so the pieces are comfortable to maneuver in the kitchen, to the dining table, or in the sink, even when filled with food. Our biggest complaint is that food tended to get stuck in the rivets, which made them harder to clean. They’re also not the most efficient or durable pans we tested — the lightweight handles make them feel a little cheap.

Testers Say“I’m pleasantly surprised at the price of this set compared to the control I got from the heat disbursement. The results spoke for themselves, cooking everything without burning or overly browning. Things took a little longer than expected, but they cooked well and the nonstick properties held up throughout the tests.”

“I’m pleasantly surprised at the price of this set compared to the control I got from the heat disbursement. The results spoke for themselves, cooking everything without burning or overly browning. Things took a little longer than expected, but they cooked well and the nonstick properties held up throughout the tests.”

Nonstick Coating Material:Aluminum |Lid Material:Tempered glass with silicone rim |Oven-Safe:Yes (350 degrees, bakeware up to 450 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4

Best for the Serious ChefAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$580 at Amazon$580 at Walmart$580 at WayfairStar QualitiesSuper-slick PFOA-free nonstick coatingFlared lip makes it easy to slide food onto a plateNests together for efficient storageRed FlagsHandles get hot on the stoveThis set from Anolon is pricier, but the cookware is professional-quality and durable enough to last for years.  The 10-piece set includes two lidded saucepans (2 and 4 quarts), an 8-quart lidded stockpot, a 3.5-quart lidded saute pan, and two frying pans (10 and 12 inches). We love that the pieces nest together for compact storage.These pots and pans are larger than many of the others we tested, which makes this set great for larger households or big-batch cooks. The PFOA-free nonstick aluminum coating is as slick as they come, and nothing stuck during our tests. Our oil-free fried eggs even slid right out of the frying pan, with no spatula needed. This set is induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 500 degrees. The pot handles do get hot when cooking, so make sure to use an oven mitt.Nonstick Coating Material:PFOA-free aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (500 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Will Dickey

Best for the Serious ChefAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware SetPHOTO: Amazon$580 at Amazon$580 at Walmart$580 at Wayfair

Best for the Serious ChefAnolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set

Best for the Serious Chef

Anolon X Hybrid Nonstick Cookware Set

$580 at Amazon$580 at Walmart$580 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesSuper-slick PFOA-free nonstick coatingFlared lip makes it easy to slide food onto a plateNests together for efficient storageRed FlagsHandles get hot on the stove

Star QualitiesSuper-slick PFOA-free nonstick coatingFlared lip makes it easy to slide food onto a plateNests together for efficient storage

Super-slick PFOA-free nonstick coating

Flared lip makes it easy to slide food onto a plate

Nests together for efficient storage

Red FlagsHandles get hot on the stove

Handles get hot on the stove

This set from Anolon is pricier, but the cookware is professional-quality and durable enough to last for years.  The 10-piece set includes two lidded saucepans (2 and 4 quarts), an 8-quart lidded stockpot, a 3.5-quart lidded saute pan, and two frying pans (10 and 12 inches). We love that the pieces nest together for compact storage.

These pots and pans are larger than many of the others we tested, which makes this set great for larger households or big-batch cooks. The PFOA-free nonstick aluminum coating is as slick as they come, and nothing stuck during our tests. Our oil-free fried eggs even slid right out of the frying pan, with no spatula needed. This set is induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 500 degrees. The pot handles do get hot when cooking, so make sure to use an oven mitt.

Nonstick Coating Material:PFOA-free aluminum |Lid Material:Glass and metal |Oven-Safe:Yes (500 degrees) |Pans Included:6 |Lids Included:4

Other Nonstick Cookware Sets We Recommend

What to Know About Nonstick Cookware

Durability

Function

Your perfect cookware set depends on how you plan to use it. If you’re an occasional home cook who needs a great pan for omelets andreheating leftovers, a pared-down, cheaper set, like ourAmazon Basics pick, will do the trick. If you’re a regular entertainer or ambitious home cook, consider investing in a more comprehensive set with stockpots and saute pans, like our favoritedishwasher-safe pick from Calphalon. Oven-safe sets and those with multiple lids are also more versatile, like theRachael Ray Cook + Create set.

Safety

This goes without saying, but safety should always be a consideration when working within a cooking space. Specifically, with nonstick coating, you should look for pans that are free of PFAs, apotentially dangerous chemicalthat could be released into the air if the pan is overheated and the coating begins to degrade. Five years is the average lifespan of nonstick cookware. If the cooking surface is pitted or starts to peel, it needs to be replaced.

Care and Maintenance

Weight

If you have grip strength limitations, opt for a lighter cookware set, such as theFarberware set. Just note that lighter pots and pans will heat faster, so keep an eye on things to avoid burning. Heavier cookware sets tend to heat food more evenly and can also withstand higher temperatures.

Price Range

There’s a pretty wide range of prices in nonstick cookware sets, from a budget-friendly $65 for theAmazon Basics setto a whopping $600 forMade In’s set. The average price of the products we tested was around $400, and we think that’s a reasonable price for a quality set, but if you want extra pieces or high-end design features, expect to pay more.

People / Jennifer Causey

In search of the best nonstick cookware sets, our team of experts put 16 leading cookware sets through a series of tests in our PEOPLE Tested kitchen lab.

Ultimately, theLe Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Setrose to the top during testing. It’s a durable, comprehensive set of pots and pans that were easy to clean and performed great across the board.

Lizzy Briskinis a contributing shopping writer for PEOPLE, as well as a food editor and recipe developer with culinary training from Cambridge School of Culinary Arts. She’s the former print food editor at Real Simple and Food Network Magazines and regularly tests and writes about all kinds of cookware. For PEOPLE, she has covered thebest kitchen knives,food storage containers, andsingle-serve coffee makers, to name a few. She compiled testing results from an expert panel of private and restaurant chefs, food stylists, and advanced home cooks for this guide.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com