The best stainless-steel cookware if you're transitioning away from nonstick
If you're trying to avoid 'forever chemicals,' stainless-steel cookware is the way to go
If you've heard of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), otherwise known as 'forever chemicals,' then you know nothing good can come of allowing them to make their way into your food and body. For those who love to cook, an easy way to help avoid these chemicals is by ditching your nonstick cookware and investing in stainless steel.
While going all in with an entire set of stainless-steel cookware might seem pricey, even top brands like Le Creuset, Cuisinart and the beloved All-Clad offer affordable options. And if you decide to make the switch slowly, don't worry – you can still use your nonstick pans if you keep temperatures under 500 degrees, ditch the metal utensils and toss any scratched cookware.
Wondering how to master cooking a meal in stainless steel? We'll show you how to get the best results and share five of our top picks if you're ready to make the switch.
How to cook with stainless steel pans
Cooking on stainless steel is easy when done right. First, preheating your pan is a must. This allows the steel to warm up so you can avoid food sticking. Second, coat your pan! Whether using butter or oil, make sure it's shimmering before you add your ingredients.
Then, be patient and allow the food to release on its own before you flip or stir anything. The trick, according to All-Clad's beginner guide to using stainless steel, it's all about heat management. Not too hot and not too cold, and you'll end up with a perfectly cooked meal.
Best stainless steel cooking sets
Le Creuset Essential Stainless Steel 5-Piece Cookware Set
You know and love their classic Dutch oven and cast iron cookware, so trying out this beginner set from Le Creuset is an easy choice. It's great at heat distribution, it's dishwasher safe and it's oven-safe up to 500 degrees.
Caraway Stainless Steel Cookware Set (4 Piece)
The 5-ply stainless steel ensures even heat distribution across each pot and pan, and this set, named the Best of the Best by our testers, includes a fry pan, sauce pan, saute pan and Dutch oven.
Cuisinart 11-Piece Cookware Set
Each piece in this classic set has an aluminum encapsulated base that heats quickly and evenly, four of them have glass lids that lock in moisture and helper handles, and you even get a 7.08-inch steamer insert.
Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set with Lids
This complete set works on all stovetops, including induction, has an aluminum core for even heat distribution and precise cooking capabilities, and is oven- and dishwasher-safe and backed by a lifetime warranty.
All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Frying Pan with Lid
A chef favorite, this frying pan features triply stainless steel construction for even heat distribution, is ideal for searing, is oven-safe up to 600 degrees, and has double-riveted stainless steel handles that provide a secure grip while cooking.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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