Best Cookware Sets Under $100 in 2023 (Jan Updated)
Best Cookware Set under $100 should be made of high-quality materials. It should have all the necessary pieces, withstand high heat, distribute heat evenly, and be easy to clean and use.
T-fal Signature Nonstick Cookware Set
Amazon Basics Non-Stick Cookware Set
Cook N Home Stainless Steel Cookware
When it comes to outfitting your kitchen, there’s no denying that cookware is one of the most important purchases you’ll make, and having the right cookware is essential in order to create delicious and healthy meals.
However, finding high-quality cookware doesn’t have to break the bank. There are actually a number of great cookware sets available for under $100. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best cookware sets that you can get for under $100.
Most beginners cooks or those who are not sure what they need from a cookware set overthink or get confused about what to buy with all of the options available in the market. If you are one of those people, then this guide is for you.
We will not only help you understand what all the different pieces of cookware are used for but we will also recommend some of the best cookware sets under $100 that have everything you need to get started in the kitchen.
When you are looking for cookware sets under $100, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind in order to make sure that you are getting a good quality set.
First and foremost, you need to make sure that the cookware set is made of high-quality materials. The last thing you want is for your cookware to start peeling or rusting after just a few uses.
Secondly, you want to make sure that the cookware set comes with all of the necessary pieces. This means that it should have at least a few different-sized pots and pans, as well as some basic utensils.
Thirdly, you want to make sure that the cookware can withstand high heat. This is important because you don’t want your food to stick to the pan or burn.
Fourth, you want to make sure that the cookware set comes with an even heat distribution. This means that the heat should be distributed evenly across the entire surface of the pan so that your food cooks evenly.
It is also essential that your cookware is nonstick. Nonstick cookware is especially good for beginners because it is much easier to use and clean. So you won’t have to spend hours scrubbing your pots and pans every time you use them.
Now that we’ve gone over what to look for in a cookware set, let’s take a look at some of the best sets that you can get for under $100.
But before that, if you want to learn more about what to look for when purchasing cookware, check out this comprehensive cookware-buying guide.
Best Cookware Set Under $100 – Our Top Picks
So let’s dive into our first pick, and that is.
1. T-fal Signature Nonstick Cookware Set
- Brand: T-fal
- Material: Aluminum
- Number of Pieces: 12
- Induction Safe: No
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Two Frying Pans (7.75 inches and 11 inches)
- Three sauce pans with lids (1 quart and 2 quarts)
- One Dutch oven with lid (5.5 quarts)
- One Griddle (10.25 inch)
- And a spoon, ladle, and slotted spatula
The first cookware set on our list is the T-fal Signature Nonstick. This cookware set is made of aluminum that heats evenly for consistent cooking results and has a nonstick interior and exterior.
The unique feature we see in T-fal is the Thermo spot indicator. This innovative and helpful feature tells us when the pan has reached its optimum cooking temperature. So we don’t have to wait and guess when the pan is ready for use, which saves a lot of time and prevents burnt food.
The non-stick coating on this pan is PFOA, lead, and cadmium free. This makes it a healthier option for cooking, as it doesn’t release any harmful chemicals into your food. The coating is also durable and long-lasting, so you can use it for years without having to worry about it peeling or flaking off.
The cookware set is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup, making it a great choice for busy families. Plus, the soft-grip silicone handles provide a secure grip and added safety.
It is also oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows customers to bake food in the pans without having to transfer it to a different dish.
My Testing & Recommendation
Overall, the T-fal Signature is the best nonstick cookware set under $100 that is durable, includes all required pieces, and easy-to-clean cookware nonstick cookware set at an affordable price.
However, we have found some issues with the quality of the lids and that the cookware is not scratch resistant. We also don’t recommend this set for those with induction cooktops, as it is not compatible with them.
But if you want cookware to use on gas or electric stovetops, this set would be a great choice.
Read More: Best Cookware Sets Under $300
2. Amazon Basics Non-Stick Cookware Set (15 pieces)
Brand: Amazon Basics
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 15
Induction Safe: No
Dishwasher Safe: No
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Two fry pans ( 8 and 10-inch)
- Two saucepans with lids (1.5 and 2-quart)
- 3-quart casserole pan (wide bowl-like utensil to cook) with lid
- 5-quart casserole pan with lid
- And five pieces of utensil items
The second budget-friendly cookware on our list is the AmazonBasics Non-Stick Cookware Set. This set includes 15 pieces of cookware, so you’ll have everything you need to create delicious meals for your family and friends.
The cookware is made from aluminum, which ensures even heat distribution, and the non-stick coating makes it easy to clean. The whole process of cooking till the food is released goes quite smoothly.
Handles are pretty cool in appearance and function as well. They stay cool when pans are at high temperatures. They are made of tempered glass to allow you to see through and are vented to allow the continuous exit of steam.
The spiral-shaped bottom and material play their role in even and quick heat distribution. So you may save time and gas while cooking over it.
This lightweight set is compatible with gas, electric, and glass stovetops.
This set can only be washed by hand. The dishwasher may damage it. High temperatures can also damage the coating and handles. Damaged coating utensils may not be safe to cook in. Do read the instructions before buying the product.
My Testing & Recommendation
Amazon Basics Non-Stick Cookware Set is a great choice if you are looking for the best cookware set under $100 that has a decent amount of pieces. However, this set is not induction safe and you can’t use it at high temperatures as it may damage the coating.
But overall with this price tag, this set is hard to beat. To make the life of the coating longer, use wooden or silicon cooking tools, and never put it into the dishwasher.
3. Cook N Home Stainless Steel Cookware Set (12 Pieces)
Brand: Cook N Home
Material: Stainless Steel
Number of Pieces: 12
Induction Safe: Yes
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Saucepan with lid (1.5 quarts)
- Three saucepot casseroles with lids (1.5, 2, and 3 quarts)
- Saute fry pan with lid (10” )
If you are looking for the best stainless steel cookware set for under $100 then Cook N Home 12-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set is the best choice.
It is made up of 18/10 stainless steel. 18/10 means that it has the same chromium content and additional 10% nickel content. This extra element makes the steel more durable, shinier, and corrosion-resistant.
The bottom has an aluminum base sandwiched between steel layers on both sides. As we know, aluminum is known for excellent thermal conductivity. This aluminum disc at the bottom makes the pans distribute heat evenly.
The cookware set is lustrous and shiny, and they have a reflective finish inside. The flat bottom makes them sit on stoves effortlessly and makes them easily stackable.
My Testing & Recommendation
Overall, in my opinion, this stainless steel is best according to price. It distributes heat evenly and is compatible with every stove type. Moreover, It is dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 500F (260 C), while lids are safe up to 350 F(176 C). The only flaw is that the handles become hot, so you must use pot holders while cooking.
4. T-fal Heat Mastery Cookware Set (18 pieces)
Brand: T-fal
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 18
Induction Safe: No
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Three Saucepan with Lid( 1, 2, and 3 quarts)
- Two Frying Pans (8 and 11 inches)
- Stockpot with lid(4 and 5 quarts)
- Skillet (10 inches)
- Five kitchen items, i.e., Slotted Spoon, Spoon, Slotted Turner, etc.
T-fal is one of my favorite brands when it comes to cookware sets, and this 18-piece set is no exception. It is made of high-quality materials and comes with all of the necessary pieces, so you can be sure that you’ll have everything you need to get started in the kitchen.
The T-fal cookware set is made of anodized aluminum and is dishwasher safe. It also has a durable nonstick interior that is easy to clean and a comfortable handle.
The handles are ergonomically designed, which makes gripping safer and more comfortable. The handles stay cool even at high temperatures. It can withstand temperatures up to 570 F(299 C). It is also oven-safe up to 350 F (117 C).
Also, the lids are vented. This hole over lids allows gradual discharge of excess steam. Otherwise, it would be accumulating within the sealed pan. Due to vents, food is moisturized in appropriate proportions delivering an excellent taste.
The quality of glass lids is also very good. They won’t easily shatter or break as they are made of tempered glass.
My Testing & Recommendation
This set is also very affordable and is a great option for those on a budget. It comes with all of the basic pieces that you need to get started in the kitchen, including a few different-sized pots and pans, as well as some basic utensils.
The only concern that I have with this cookware set is that it is not really dishwasher safe as they claim. I know that it’s normal to have to hand-wash nonstick cookware, but I was hoping that this set would be an exception.
Other than that, this coating is very good quality and the heat distribution is even. So, I would say when comparing it with other nonstick cookware sets, this one is still a better option in terms of quality.
5. Gotham Steel Nonstick Cookware Set (10 pieces)
Brand: Gotham Steel
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 10
Induction Safe: Yes
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- A skillet (8.5 inches)
- Frying pan with lid (10.25 inches)
- Saucepan with lid (1.5 quarts)
- Two stock pots with lids (2.5 and 5 quarts)
- XL aluminum steamer insert
The next set belongs to “Gotham steel,” a well-known brand known for introducing non-stick ceramic copper cookware. The feature that distinguishes this set from others is that the coating is reinforced with diamonds.
This makes it durable because of diamond reinforcement, it can withstand high heat and is also scratch resistant but that doesn’t mean you should use metal utensils aggressively because the set is scratch resistant not scratch proof and any nonstick cookware, even hard anodized cookware, can get scratched if you use metal utensils aggressively.
Also, you don’t worry about harmful elements leaching out. This set is free from PFOA, PFOS, lead & cadmium. Thus, providing you with a healthy and safe cooking experience. Also, it only requires a minimum of oil to cook food. This will help you to cook healthier meals.
It can endure a sizzling temperature of up to 500F(260 C) in the oven. It is dishwasher safe, so the primary concern of the masses is resolved here.
The interior of the cookware is made of ceramic while the exterior is made up of aluminum which gives it a lustrous look and makes it light in weight.
My Testing & Recommendation
The Gotham Steel is one of the best nonstick cookware because it doesn’t require too much oil for cooking, can withstand high temperatures, is dishwasher safe, and is scratch resistant.
However, one needs to beware of the handle because they have a tendency to get hot. So, you need to be careful while cooking.
The community feedback is mostly positive with a few complaints about the handles getting hot one person said that the food started sticking after a few uses but this could be because of not using enough oil or not following the instructions properly.
6. Goodful Non Stick Cookware Set (12 pieces)
Brand: Goodful
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 12
Induction Safe: No
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: No
Cookware Set Includes:
- Two fry pans (8″ and 10″)
- One saucepan with lid ( 2 quarts)
- Dutch oven with lid (5 quarts)
- One stainless steel steamer basket
- deep sauté pan with lid ( 4 quart)
- Square griddle pan (10″)
- bamboo turner, bamboo spoon
The next budget-friendly cookware set Goodful Non-Stick Cookware Set is a 12-piece set that is made of aluminum construction that ensures quick, even heat distribution.
This set is visually appealing, and the turquoise color looks attractive in the kitchen. Plus, the set is available in 3 different colors to match your kitchen’s décor.
The set includes almost everything you need to get started in the kitchen including. As you see the set includes stainless steel steamer basket which is a great addition for those who want to eat healthily. The set also includes a griddle pan which is the need by those who want to make pancakes or grilled cheese sandwiches.
The cookware set is also PFOA and lead-free for your safety. The ergonomic handles are soft touch and stay cool during cooking making it easy to maneuver. They also have a hole so you can hang them up for easy storage.
The coating is reinforced with diamonds, making the products even more durable and strong. The ergonomic handles are soft touch and stay cool during cooking and the tempered glass lids allow you to see your food as it cooks.
My Testing & Recommendation
Overall, in this price range I don’t think one should expect much but this set really pleasantly surprised me because this is really dishwasher safe. The build quality is good, the design is nice and the pots & pans seem to be of a decent size.
However, the major flaw of this set is you can’t put any pot or pan in the dishwasher and the lid of the larger pot doesn’t fit well, which can be a bit frustrating. But overall, this is a good set for the price.
7. Evolution Non-Stick Cookware (20 Pieces)
Brand: Ecolution
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 20
Induction Safe: No
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Three fry pans (5.5”, 8”, 10”)
- One Square griddle pan (10”)
- One casserole with lid (5 quarts)
- Three Saucepan with Lid (1, 2, 3 quarts)
- One Deep Cooker Sauté Pan with Lid(5 Quart)
- One Sheet Pan (9″ x 12.5″)
- Five bamboo items/ wooden spoons
Evolution Non-Stick Cookware set comes with all of the necessary pieces (20 Pieces), so you won’t have to worry about purchasing additional items separately. This number is the maximum among all until now. The set has pretty much every utensil that one can need in cooking for example small frying pan(5.5 Inch), griddle pan, and baking sheet.
The cookware is made of aluminum which is a good heat conductor, making it heat up fastly and spreads this heat evenly across the surface. So your food will not stick to the pan and will be cooked evenly.
The cookware is nonstick which makes it very easy to use and clean. You can simply wipe it with a damp cloth after cooking and it will look as good as new. The set is also dishwasher safe so you won’t have to spend hours scrubbing your pots and pans.
Handles are designed to provide you with a comfortable grip while cooking. And they are also riveted to the pan so that they don’t come off easily.
The cookware set is also oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. So you can use it for baking as well as cooking on the stovetop.
My Testing & Recommendation
Overall, the cookware set is of great quality and has all of the necessary pieces that you need to get started in the kitchen. It is also very budget-friendly as it is priced under $100.
The only issue is the quality control issues, some sets come out bent and different customers get broken knob handles, so here I would recommend that you check the cookware set as soon as you get it delivered and if there are any issues, then return it immediately.
Apart from this, the cookware set is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option.
9. NutriChef Nonstick Cookware Set (15 pieces)
Brand: NutriChef
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 15
Induction Safe: Yes
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Pink sauce pot with lid (0.89 quarts)
- Blue saucepot with lid (1.25 quart)
- Yellow pot with lid (1.81 quarts)
- Green dutch oven pot (4.44 quart)
- Red fry pan (10″)
- Black fry pan (8″)
- Five kitchen tools
The next cookware set on our list is the NutriChef Nonstick Cookware Set. This set includes 15 pieces, so it has everything you need to get started in the kitchen.
The cookware is made of high-quality aluminum and has a nonstick coating that is free of PFOA, PFOS, and lead. This set is also dishwasher safe but handwashing is recommended to prolong the life of the non-stick coating.
This multi-color set is made up of aluminum-coated non-stick. Aluminum will ensure that it distributes heat evenly. The nature of the non-stick coating is not mentioned in the product’s description.
To make it different from other cookware sets, NutriChef adds an extra stainless steel plate at the bottom of each pan is also included in this set to make it induction safe which turns this cookware more versatile.
My Testing & Recommendation
Those who like multi-color options in their kitchen and also like the feel of non-stick should go for it. As this set has both of those features. I really appreciate the appealing looks of this set.
Though it is a good starter set for those who are just starting their cooking journey, it would be better if the non-stick quality is a bit better.
8. Cook N Home Ceramic Coating cookware Set (10 pieces)
Brand: Cook N Home
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 10
Induction Safe: No
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Two saucepans (1 and 2 qt ) with lids
- casserole (3 qt) with lid
- Dutch oven (5 qt) with lid
- Two fry pans (8 and 9.5 inch)
Our next pick belongs to Cook N Home. The first thing that you’ll notice about this set is its beautiful design. This is what people love ceramic cookware as it offers a unique and luxurious look.
Ceramic is known for being non-stick and PTFE and PFOA free. This means that your food isn’t going to stick to the pan, and you won’t have to worry about harmful chemicals leaching into your food.
The heat distribution of this cookware set is even, so your food will cook evenly. Not only that, but the ceramic coating allows you to use less oil or butter, so your food will be healthier as well.
The set includes two saucepans, a casserole, a Dutch oven, and two fry pans, so you’ll have everything you need to cook a complete meal.
The handles on all of the pots and pans in this set are riveted and stay cool, which ensures heat will not transfer to the handles. This makes it safe to use and easy to handle. The ceramic coating also makes it easier to clean.
My Testing & Recommendation
Overall, I think this is a great cookware set for the price. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a non-stick and PFOA/PTFE-free cookware set.
However, you should have to avoid high temperatures and metal utensils to preserve the coating. It is not dishwasher safe, contrary to what is stated in the product description. And it may not be the best option for the people who use induction tops.
10. Cuisinart Nonstick Cookware Set (11 pieces)
Brand: Cuisinart
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 11
Induction Safe: No
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- four saucepans with lids (1, 2, 3, and 6 quarts)
- One saute pan with lid (3 quarts)
- A Skillet (10 inches)
Another best pots and pans set under $100 is the Cuisinart 11-Piece Set Advantage Nonstick Cookware.
“Cuisinart” is a well-known brand in making outstanding kitchen products. Again, this is an aluminum-built product coated non-stick with Teflon. As expected, this material would make this item lightweight. It distributes heat evenly; only handles would stay calm for you to maneuver it safely.
The handles of the pots and pans in this set also stay cool to the touch, so you won’t have to worry about burning your hand. And, they’re also riveted, so they’re very sturdy.
Though the skillet has no lid, the pan’s lid can fit perfectly. Evenly heating across the pan allows you to cook delicious food over its broad base. Be it a small task or ample food to handle. Each item is multipurpose. You can do Simmer, Saute, Fry, Boil, or even Braise the food.
The best thing about this cookware set is, the lids fit snugly, so there’s no worry about them coming off while you’re cooking. Not only that, but the lids are also well coated with silicon, so they won’t become hot.
My Testing & Recommendation
Overall, it is good for a starter kitchen. If you are a beginner or looking for your first apartment, but if you are serious about cooking this might not be the best choice. The reason is that the cookware set is not made of thick aluminum so the heat endurance is not that great.
Related Post: Best Cookware Sets Under $200
11. BulbHead Red Copper Copper Ceramic Cookware Set (10 Pieces)
Brand: BulbHead
Material: Aluminum
Number of Pieces: 10
Induction Safe: Yes
Dishwasher Safe: No
Oven Safe: Yes
Cookware Set Includes:
- Frypan (8”)
- Frypan with lid (10”)
- Three sauce pots with lids (1.5, 2.5, and 6 quarts)
- One aluminum steamer insert
This cookware set is appealing and appalling, especially when we see the meager price tag. This cookware set is made up of copper-infused ceramic. The 10% copper content in the ceramic makes it a good conductor of heat, so it will heat up quickly and cook your food evenly.
Since copper is a high conductor of heat, it makes these items heat up quickly. Their surface is scratch-resistant and non-stick. The food comes out without any difficulty. It requires just a little oil, thus helping you adopt healthier meals.
The lids are made of tempered glass so that you can see through them. Vented lids allow steam to fuse out, maintaining moisture level within the closed pot.
This cookware set is oven safe up to 500-degrees Fahrenheit, so you can use it to bake your food. Not only that, but the copper-infused ceramic makes it a good choice for people who have induction cooktops.
My Testing & Recommendation
If you are looking for a ceramic cookware set for induction, then you should definitely consider this set. The copper-infused ceramic makes it a good conductor of heat, so it will heat up quickly and cook your food evenly.
However, this set is also not free of flaws and the first issue I have found is the handles are thin and get hot which can make it difficult to hold. And, it is not dishwasher safe. You have to wash it by hand.
Things to Consider when Buying Cookware Under $100
Buying guide helps you better understand the product’s features and your requirements.
Visuals: Design and color
Choose color and design wisely. Good-looking utensils improve food presentation and leave a lasting impression when you serve them to guests.
Usefulness and size
Check out if your favorite/needed items are in the set.
Sometimes, consumers get the wrong idea of the product’s size from the pictures. Here in the list, the size of all items is mentioned. Pans and pots size is measured in “quart,” a measuring unit of liquid capacity. In the UK, it equals approx. 1.13 liters, and in the US, it equals approx. 0.94 liters.
Lids
Almost all the items in this list have tempered glass lids which allows you to keep an eye on food being cooked without removing it.
Prefer vetted lids. This hole allows steam to escape, maintaining stable air pressure inside the closed pan. It also prevents food from getting excess moisture.
Material
Material like stainless steel, copper, cast iron, aluminum, etc., is widely used in manufacturing cookware items.
We would describe the features of those that are mentioned in this list.
Stainless Steel
The lustrous outlook of these products makes them look attractive.
Stainless steel makes items durable, strong, dishwasher safe, and warp-resistant. This material is safe to use as they emit no toxins or reacts with any food item. However, it is poor conduction of heat and it heats unevenly.
Aluminum
Aluminum is known for its high thermal conductivity, which heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly. It is lightweight, dishwasher safe, and inexpensive as well.
Upon high temperature, it may decolor or react with some acidic food, i.e., Tomato, vinegar, etc. having a coating over aluminum is better.
Coating
Most items have a non-stick coating finish. These utensils are easy to clean and easy to cook. Food doesn’t stick at the bottom. Moreover, it consumes less oil, making your food more healthy.
Nonstick coating types:
Different non-stick coatings are used in cookware utensils: PTFE or Teflon, Ceramic coatings, Silicon coatings, Superhydrophobic, etc.
We will discuss two types of non-stick coatings, as products having these coatings are on our list.
Ceramic coated (Sol-gel):
Ceramic coating is one of the best, free from any harmful chemicals like PFOA. This eco-friendly coating doesn’t leach any harmful chemicals when at high temperatures.
But it isn’t much durable.
To increase its life:
- Avoid high temperatures
- wash it by hand
- Use silicone or wooden utensils.
PTFE coating/ Teflon:
Teflon is the brand company name that manufactures PTFE. Teflon coatings are made up of a mixture of PTFE and PFOA (harmful chemicals), but PFOA isn’t present in the final non-stick coatings, making Teflon coatings safe to use. However, more research is needed, so it may not be the safest coating available there.
Teflon-coated utensils are safe as long as you take good care of them. Care includes:
- Avoid high temperatures(not above 500°F / 260°C).
- Avoiding metal utensils over them, handwashing them only.
- Storing them well be safer and prevent the coating for a more extended period.
Final Thoughts
Buying a cookware set may be a very close-to-heart task for some who like to have everything proper in their homes.
Moreover, when you spend your hard-earned money on some valuable things, you ensure that it doesn’t get wasted on the wrong product.
We compiled a list of the best cookware sets under $100. And we hope your quest to find the best cookware sets ends here.
