There’s a lot of work that goes into ensuring your cookware set meets safety standards and isn’t some overpriced garbage. Some like Gotham ceramic can tolerate ovens of up to 500⁰F, while others like Cuisinart MCP are safe over 550⁰F. Because of these significant variations in standards and tolerance, a cookware’s real value can be hard to determine.
1. KitchenAid 3-Ply Base 10-Piece Pots and Pans Set
Its durable triple-layer base is constructed such that the aluminum layer helps distribute heat evenly. This innovative addition ensures you never have to worry about uneven cooking no matter how bad your stove may get. Besides, it includes tempered glass lids that don’t break even at 350⁰F.
Features
- 10-piece set
- Triple-layer base
- Etched measurements on saucepans and stockpot
- 500⁰F oven-safe without lids
- Stainer lids for saucepans
- Stainless-steel
Pros
- It’s dishwasher-safe
- Reasonable price
- Includes a heat-distributing aluminum layer
- Sturdy weight and impressive balance
- The handle is always cool to touch
Cons
- The only grill pan is non-stick
- Can be too heavy for some
Price: View on Amazon
2. Cuisinart MCP-12N Multiclad Pro
By no metric is MCP-12N cheap kitchenware, but it’s significantly cheaper than the most alternative. It has incredible value because it offers 12 cooking pieces instead of KitchenAid’s ten. Not only does it also offers induction compatibility, but its oven tolerance is high at a staggering 550⁰F.
Features
- Polished stainless steel construction
- Three-ply design
- Aluminum core
- Machine-washable
- Tempered glass lids
Pros
- Have tapered rims
- Supports even heat distribution
- Can be used with induction cookers
- Drip-free pouring
- Affordable
Cons
- Not anti-stick
- Tri-ply instead of all clad
Price: View on Amazon
3. KitchenAid 5-Ply 10-Piece Cookware
It’s almost twice the price of its three-ply cousin, mostly because it supports induction cooking and is broiler-safe. The cookware has a five-layered stainless-steel design with a brushed base for improved durability. Unfortunately, the pots and pans don’t have a non-stick interior which significantly reduces their overall value.
Features
- 500⁰F oven safe
- 10-piece set
- Durable lids (350⁰F oven-safe)
- Induction compatible
- Corrosion-resistant sealed rims
- Five-layered construction
Pros
- Exceptional heat retention ability
- Cookware is massive
- Can be machine-washed
- Looks nice and sturdy
- Quality riveting for handle
Cons
- Not non-stick
- Expensive
Price: View on Amazon
4. Gotham Steel Cookware + Bakeware Set
As one of the few ceramic cookware to make our list, Gotham doesn’t disappoint. It’s remarkably cheap despite coming as a 20-piece set and featuring the award-wining Ti-Cerama coating. The set is lightweight, durable, dishwasher-safe, oven-safe at over 500⁰F, and scratch-proof.
Features
- Graphite color
- Aluminum core
- 20-piece set
- Nom-stick coating
- Tempered glass lid
Pros
- Low price
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Almost impervious to most food and oil
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Falsely advertises as 20pcs set
Price: View on Amazon
5. Cuisinart 77-11G Chef’s Classic
When it comes to price, it’s hard to beat Cuisinart’s 77-11G. Its glass lids are break-resistant even with oven use, and the Cool Grip handle ensures you can always hold it. Unfortunately, it’s merely stainless steel with an aluminum encapsulated base instead of all clad or five-ply.
Features
- Tempered glass lids
- 11-piece set
- Measurement markings
- Cool grip handle
- Induction stove compatible
- Tapered rims
Pros
- Cheap
- Great job at heat distribution
- Versatile and oven safe
- The handle is cool to touch no matter the temperature
Cons
- Rivets aren’t the best
- Food sticks easily
- Not for long-lasting use
Price: View on Amazon