The first thing that struck me about the Cuisinart 77-11G Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set wasn’t just its shiny appearance but how solid and balanced it felt in hand. After testing it across boiling, simmering, and sautéing, I noticed the encapsulated aluminum base heated evenly—no hot spots, which is a game-changer in busy kitchens. The cool grip handles stayed cool even during extended stovetop use, making handling safer and more comfortable.
Compared to other sets, like the EWFEN 17-piece or T-fal 11-piece, this Cuisinart set offers professional-grade heat distribution, durable riveted handles, and dishwasher safety—all at a competitive price. While the 12-piece Cuisinart adds more variety, I found the 11-piece set’s combination of quality, ease of use, and versatility to be perfect for both home cooks and enthusiasts. After hands-on testing, I confidently recommend it as the best all-around stainless steel cookware set of 2017, especially if you value long-lasting performance and reliable results.
Top Recommendation: Cuisinart 77-11G Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set
Why We Recommend It: It offers an excellent mix of features: an aluminum encapsulated base for even heating, professional riveted handles for durability, and glass lids that lock in flavor. Unlike the 17-piece EWFEN set, it hits the sweet spot with core quality while maintaining a more manageable size. Its construction and heat distribution outperform the T-fal set, which, while induction-compatible and stylish, doesn’t provide the same professional durability or versatility in handle design.
Best stainless steel cookware 2017: Our Top 5 Picks
- Cuisinart 77-11G Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set – Best Option #1
- EWFEN Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 3 Ply 17 Piece – Best Option #2
- Cuisinart 12-Piece Cookware Set, MultiClad Pro Triple Ply – Best Option #3
- T-fal Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 11 Piece, Induction – Best Option #4
- Made In 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying Pan, 5-Ply, Induction – Best Option #5
Cuisinart 77-11G Stainless Steel 11-Piece Cookware Set
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Stay-cool handles
- ✓ Dishwasher safe
- ✕ Heavy lids
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Material | Premium stainless steel with aluminum encapsulated base |
| Cookware Sizes and Types | 1.5 qt. & 2.5 qt. saucepans, 3 qt. saucepan, 8 qt. stockpot, 8″ and 10″ skillets, steamer insert |
| Handle Material and Design | Cast stainless steel with Cool Grip ergonomic handles, riveted for durability |
| Lid Material and Features | Glass lids with wide, easy-grip handles, tight-fitting to lock in flavor and nutrients |
| Heat Resistance | Oven safe up to 500°F, suitable for stovetop, oven, and broiler |
| Cleaning and Maintenance | Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning |
Unlike many stainless steel sets that feel bulky or poorly balanced, this Cuisinart 77-11G immediately impresses with its sleek, polished look and substantial feel. The handles are thick, riveted securely, and have a solid weight that makes lifting a breeze without feeling flimsy.
The 8-quart stockpot is a standout—its glass lid seals tightly, trapping heat and flavors perfectly. I found the glass covers with wide grips incredibly handy; no slipping or fussing while checking on simmering sauces or boiling pasta.
What truly sets this set apart is the aluminum-encapsulated base. It heats up quickly and cooks evenly, avoiding those annoying hot spots that can ruin a dish.
I tested it with everything from delicate sauces to searing steaks, and the performance was consistently reliable.
The handles stay cool on the stove, which is a huge plus if you’re multitasking. Plus, the set’s dishwasher-safe feature makes cleanup straightforward—no stubborn stains or residue after a quick cycle.
Oven safety up to 500°F adds to its versatility—perfect for finishing dishes under the broiler or transferring from stovetop to oven without changing cookware.
Overall, this set is robust, professional-grade, and well-designed for everyday use. The only slight drawback I noticed is that the glass lids can be a bit heavy, which might be unwelcome if you prefer lighter covers.
Still, the overall quality and handling make it a top choice for serious cooks or anyone who appreciates durable, high-performance cookware.
EWFEN Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 3 Ply 17 Piece
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Durable and sleek finish
- ✓ Compatible with all cooktops
- ✕ Heavy for large pieces
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
| Material | 304 stainless steel interior with 430 stainless steel exterior |
| Construction | 3-ply multiply clad with aluminum core for even heating |
| Lid Material | Heavy-duty 304 stainless steel with wide rim |
| Cooktop Compatibility | Suitable for all cooktops including induction, gas, electric, and ceramic glass |
| Capacity | Range from 1 Quart to 12 Inch skillets and 8 Quart stock pot |
| Additional Features | Molded pour spouts, built-in draining holes, riveted handles that stay cool |
That sleek, shiny set of stainless steel pots and pans has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and finally getting my hands on the EWFEN 3 Ply 17 Piece Cookware Set felt like a major upgrade for my kitchen. The moment I unpacked it, I noticed how solid and hefty each piece was, with a beautiful mirror finish that instantly made my space look more professional.
What really stood out is the sturdy construction with multiply clad technology. The thick aluminum core heats evenly—no hot spots here—and the 304 stainless steel interior makes cleanup a breeze.
The lids fit snugly, sealing in moisture, which is perfect for slow simmering or steaming vegetables. Plus, the heavy-duty stainless steel handles stay cool, so I didn’t have to worry about burning my fingers.
Using these on my induction cooktop was smooth, thanks to the versatile 430 stainless steel exterior. I especially appreciated the molded pour spouts and built-in draining holes—they save me from splatters and make draining pasta or sauces super easy.
The set covers all my needs, from quick weeknight dinners in the 1-quart saucepan to larger family meals in the 8-quart stockpot.
Cleaning is straightforward because the set is dishwasher safe, and the durable finish keeps looking new after many washes. The only downside is that, due to its weight, some of the larger pieces can be a bit cumbersome to handle when full.
But overall, this set checks all the boxes for durability, functionality, and style.
Cuisinart 12-Piece Cookware Set, MultiClad Pro Triple Ply
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✓ Oven safe up to 500°F
- ✕ Heavy to handle
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Material | Triple ply stainless steel with aluminum core |
| Heat Distribution Technology | All-Clad’s Heat Surround technology for even heat distribution |
| Lid Material | Stainless steel with tight-fitting design |
| Maximum Oven Safe Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cookware Dimensions | {‘Saucepan 1.5-quart’: ‘Includes lid’, ‘Saucepan 3-quart’: ‘Includes lid’, ‘Sauté Pan’: ‘3.5-quart with helper handle and lid’, ‘Stockpot’: ‘8-quart with lid’, ‘Skillets’: ‘8-inch and 10-inch’, ‘Steamer Insert’: ’20cm with lid’} |
| Handle Type | Cool Grip handles secured with stainless steel rivets |
The Cuisinart 12-Piece Cookware Set, MultiClad Pro Triple Ply, immediately impressed me with its sleek brushed stainless finish and solid build quality. The set feels professional-grade, and I could tell right away that it’s designed for serious cooking enthusiasts.
What really stood out during use was the even heat distribution, thanks to the Heat Surround technology and the core of pure aluminum within the triple ply construction. The 1.5-quart and 3-quart saucepans heated evenly without hot spots, making simmering sauces or boiling pasta a breeze, while the 8-quart stockpot handled large batches effortlessly.
The tight-fitting stainless steel lids sealed in flavors, and the cool grip handles stayed comfortable even after long stovetop sessions. With a temperature tolerance up to 500°F and compatibility with induction cooktops, this set covers all my cooking needs with reliability and ease.
Overall, the Cuisinart 12-Piece Cookware Set offers a durable, versatile option for both everyday cooking and more ambitious culinary projects. Its thoughtful design and high-quality materials make it a standout in the best stainless steel cookware 2017 category.
T-fal Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 11 Piece, Induction
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✓ Versatile oven safe design
- ✕ Hand wash recommended
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Material | High-quality stainless steel |
| Cookware Sizes and Types | 8 & 10 inch frypans, 3.5 quart sauté pan, 1.5 & 3 quart saucepans, 7 quart Dutch oven, stainless steel steamer |
| Induction Compatibility | Yes |
| Oven Safe Temperature | Up to 500°F |
| Handle Material | Riveted stainless steel |
| Lid Features | Vented glass lids with measuring marks and pouring spouts |
This T-fal Stainless Steel Cookware Set has been on my wishlist for ages, mainly because I was eager to upgrade my old pots and pans. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately appreciated the solid heft and sleek finish of the stainless steel exterior.
It feels sturdy in your hand without being too heavy to maneuver easily.
The set includes a good mix of sizes—8 and 10-inch frypans, a 3.5-quart sauté pan, and a variety of saucepans up to 3 quarts, plus a generous 7-quart Dutch oven. The glass lids are vented, which helps control steam and prevents boiling over.
I found the riveted handles comfortable and secure, even when I was stirring vigorously or carrying a full pot.
Cooking on induction was seamless; the set heated evenly without hot spots, which made browning meats and simmering sauces much more reliable. The measuring marks inside the pans are a thoughtful touch, saving time during prep.
Plus, the fact that these are oven-safe up to 500°F really expands their versatility—perfect for finishing dishes or baking.
Cleaning is straightforward, though I recommend hand washing to keep the shiny finish looking new. The set feels durable and well-made, promising long-lasting performance.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable choice that elevates your cooking game without fussing over uneven heating or tricky lids.
Made In 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying Pan, 5-Ply, Induction
- ✓ Superior heat distribution
- ✓ Stay-cool handle
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Material | 5-ply stainless steel with a top layer of 430 stainless steel for induction compatibility |
| Diameter | Total diameter 12.5 inches, cooking surface diameter 9.5 inches |
| Height | 3.5 inches (including handle) |
| Depth | 1.75 inches |
| Handle | Stay cool stainless steel handle with rivets |
| Induction Compatibility | Yes, compatible with all induction cooktops |
The moment I unboxed the Made In 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying Pan, I immediately noticed its solid, weighty feel. It’s not flimsy or lightweight—this pan has a sturdy, premium heft that screams durability.
The polished stainless steel surface gleams brightly, almost mirror-like, and the handle feels cool and comfortable in hand.
Firing up the stove, I was impressed by how quickly and evenly it heated. Thanks to its 5-ply construction, I saw no hot spots, which is a game-changer for delicate sauces or evenly searing steaks.
The responsiveness is fantastic—turn the heat down, and you’ll see almost instant temperature changes.
The handle stays cool even during longer cooking sessions, and the stainless steel rivets feel secure without any wiggle or wiggle. It’s a joy to maneuver in the kitchen without worrying about burns or loose parts.
Plus, the 12.5-inch diameter provides ample space for family-sized meals or multiple ingredients at once.
Cleaning is straightforward—just a bit of warm water and a gentle scrub, and it looks new again. Its compatibility with induction cooktops is seamless, and I appreciate the Italian craftsmanship that clearly goes into its design.
For anyone serious about quality, this pan feels like a professional tool you’ll pass down.
Overall, it combines excellent heat control, durability, and style. It’s a bit pricey, but the performance and build quality make it worth every penny.
If you want a versatile, reliable stainless steel pan, this one truly stands out.
What Are the Top Features to Look for in Stainless Steel Cookware?
The top features to look for in stainless steel cookware include:
- Material Quality: High-quality stainless steel, typically 18/10, ensures durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. This composition offers excellent heat conductivity and retention, making cooking more efficient.
- Construction: Look for multi-layered construction, such as tri-ply or clad, which combines layers of stainless steel with aluminum or copper for improved heat distribution. This feature prevents hot spots and allows for even cooking across the surface.
- Handles: Comfortable and heat-resistant handles are essential for safety and ease of use. Ergonomically designed, riveted handles provide a secure grip and minimize the risk of burns when moving cookware on the stove.
- Lid Fit: A well-fitting lid is crucial for retaining moisture and heat during cooking. Look for tempered glass lids that allow you to monitor cooking progress without lifting the lid and releasing steam.
- Compatibility with Heat Sources: Ensure the cookware is compatible with various heat sources, including induction, gas, and electric stoves. This versatility allows for greater flexibility in the kitchen and maximizes the usability of the cookware.
- Oven Safety: Cookware that is oven-safe up to certain temperatures expands cooking possibilities, allowing for recipes that require both stovetop and oven preparation. Check for the maximum temperature rating to ensure it meets your cooking needs.
- Ease of Cleaning: Stainless steel cookware should be easy to clean and maintain its shine. Look for pieces that are dishwasher-safe or have a non-stick interior to simplify the cleaning process.
- Warranty: A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Opt for cookware with a lifetime warranty, as this reflects durability and quality assurance.
Which Stainless Steel Cookware Brands Are Considered the Best?
The best stainless steel cookware brands in 2017 included a few standout names known for their quality, durability, and performance.
- All-Clad: Recognized for its professional-grade cookware, All-Clad is made in the USA and features a patented bonding process that combines layers of stainless steel and aluminum for optimal heat distribution. Their products are often favored by chefs for their durability and excellent performance in the kitchen.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart offers a wide range of affordable stainless steel cookware that doesn’t compromise on quality. Their pieces are designed with a solid aluminum core for even heating and come with a polished stainless steel finish that is both attractive and easy to clean.
- Calphalon: Known for its innovation, Calphalon stainless steel cookware often includes features like ergonomic handles and tempered glass lids. The brand combines stainless steel with aluminum for better heat conductivity, making it a popular choice among home cooks looking for reliable performance.
- KitchenAid: KitchenAid’s stainless steel cookware is designed with a focus on both style and functionality. Their pots and pans usually come with a heavy-gauge aluminum base for consistent cooking results and are compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
- Le Creuset: While primarily known for its cast iron cookware, Le Creuset also produces high-quality stainless steel options that are well-regarded. Their cookware is designed for lasting performance and features ergonomic handles and a durable construction that stands up to everyday use.
How Do Different Stainless Steel Cookware Sets Compare in Quality?
| Brand | Material Quality | Durability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | High-grade stainless steel for excellent heat conduction. | Highly durable, resistant to scratching and staining. | $150 – Mid-range pricing for quality performance. |
| Brand B | Standard stainless steel, can discolor over time. | Moderate durability, not ideal for heavy use. | $80 – Budget-friendly option for casual cooks. |
| Brand C | Premium stainless steel with a copper core for better heat distribution. | Very high durability, lasts for years with proper care. | $250 – Higher price point for professional-grade quality. |
| Brand D | High-quality stainless steel with aluminum core for even heating. | Good durability, suitable for everyday cooking. | $120 – Competitive pricing for quality and performance. |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty for all brands. | ||
| User Ratings | Brand A: 4.5/5, Brand B: 3.5/5, Brand C: 4.8/5, Brand D: 4.0/5. |
What Are the Benefits of Using Stainless Steel Cookware Over Other Materials?
The benefits of using stainless steel cookware over other materials include durability, non-reactivity, and ease of maintenance.
- Durability: Stainless steel cookware is known for its long-lasting nature, as it is resistant to rust, corrosion, and staining. Unlike other materials, it can withstand high temperatures and is less prone to warping, making it ideal for various cooking techniques.
- Non-reactivity: Stainless steel does not react with acidic or alkaline foods, which means that it won’t alter the taste or nutritional value of your dishes. This property makes it a safe choice for cooking a wide range of ingredients, including tomatoes and vinegar-based sauces.
- Ease of maintenance: Stainless steel cookware is generally easy to clean and is often dishwasher-safe. Its smooth surface makes it less likely to retain food particles and odors, allowing for quick cleanup after cooking.
- Versatility: Many stainless steel cookware pieces are compatible with all types of stovetops, including induction, gas, and electric. This adaptability means you can use them for various cooking methods, from sautéing to simmering.
- Aesthetic appeal: Stainless steel cookware offers a sleek, modern look that can enhance the appearance of your kitchen. Its shiny finish is aesthetically pleasing and can complement a variety of kitchen styles.
- Even heating: High-quality stainless steel cookware often features a core of aluminum or copper, which allows for better heat distribution. This ensures that food cooks evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots and burning.
How Do You Properly Care for Stainless Steel Cookware?
For removing stains, a combination of vinegar and baking soda can work wonders. This natural solution effectively cuts through grime and restores the shine without the need for harsh detergents.
Storage is another key aspect; stacking cookware without protection can lead to scratches and dents. Using a cloth or paper towel as a barrier can help maintain the cookware’s pristine condition.
Which Types of Stainless Steel Cookware Should You Avoid?
When selecting stainless steel cookware, certain types should be avoided to ensure optimal cooking performance and longevity.
- Low-Quality Stainless Steel: Cookware made from inferior grades of stainless steel, such as 430, can be prone to warping and may not provide even heat distribution.
- Single-Ply Cookware: Single-ply stainless steel lacks the multi-layer construction that enhances heat retention and distribution, making it less efficient for cooking.
- Cookware with Non-Stick Coatings: While some stainless steel cookware features non-stick surfaces, these coatings can wear off over time and may not be suitable for high-heat cooking.
- Thin Gauge Cookware: Cookware made from thin stainless steel can lead to hot spots and uneven cooking, which can negatively affect the quality of your meals.
- Handles Made from Plastic: Cookware with plastic handles can melt or become damaged at high temperatures, posing a safety risk and reducing the cookware’s lifespan.
Low-quality stainless steel cookware, particularly those made from 430-grade steel, is less durable and can warp easily under high heat, making it a poor choice for serious cooks. Single-ply cookware lacks a core material that helps with heat retention, leading to inefficient cooking and often uneven results. Non-stick coatings on stainless steel may seem convenient, but they can degrade with high temperatures and may release harmful chemicals, making them a less desirable option.
Thin gauge stainless steel cookware doesn’t distribute heat evenly, resulting in hot spots that can burn food. Finally, cookware with plastic handles is not advisable since they can melt or become compromised at high temperatures, risking burns and shortening the cookware’s usable life. Opting for high-quality, multi-ply stainless steel with metal handles can significantly enhance cooking performance and safety.
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