5 Best Cookware Sets for Beginners in 2023
Best Cookware for Beginners should be the one that has all the necessary pots and pans for basic cooking tasks, such as boiling water, frying eggs, and making sauces. It should also be durable enough to withstand daily use and easy to clean.
T-Fal Signature Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
✅Distributes heat evenly
✅ Thermo spot indicator
✅Include Griddle Pan
Amazon Basics Non-Stick 15-Piece Cookware Set
✅Budget Friendly
✅Set Include 15-Pieces
✅Comfortable soft-touch handles
Rachael Ray Cucina Cookware Set
✅Oven safe up to 400°F
✅Dual-riveted handles
✅Food doesn’t stick
Starting out in the kitchen can be hard when you don’t know where to head. And the first basic thing you need is a good cookware set. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to finding the best cookware set for beginners.
The best advice I can offer is to opt for a set that includes essential pieces, easy-to-clean non-stick surfaces, and durable materials such as Anodize Aluminum. It’s also important to consider the size of your kitchen and how many people you typically cook for.
Once you have a solid cookware set, you’ll be able to expand your cooking repertoire and whip up delicious meals for yourself and others.
How to Choose Cookware as a Beginner for your Kitchen
Before going to review different cookware sets, it is important to know what are those features or factors to look for when buying cookware as a beginner.
The materials the cookware is made from
When choosing cookware, it’s important to consider the material it’s made from. Some materials, like cast iron, can be quite heavy but they can also last a lifetime if well taken care of. Other materials, like aluminum which is known for its heat distribution, can be light and easy to use.
Non-stick cookware
Non-stick cookware is a great option for beginners as it’s very easy to clean and doesn’t require any extra oils or fats to prevent food from sticking. However, non-stick coatings can wear off over time especially if you use metal utensils or if you clean them with harsh scrubbers and put them in the dishwasher.
Number of pieces in the set
When starting out, it’s best to go with a smaller set that includes the essential pieces you will need for cooking. This way, you won’t have extra unnecessary pieces taking up space in your kitchen.
Basic pieces mean a skillet or frying pan, a saucepan with a lid, and maybe a Dutch oven for baking or braising. Moreover, Griddle pans and double boiler inserts are also good to have in your collection as they provide versatility in cooking.
As you become more confident in the kitchen, you can gradually add more pieces to your collection.
Oven safe temperature
If you plan on using the cookware in your oven, it’s important to check the maximum oven-safe temperature. This will ensure that the material won’t warp or melt in the oven at high temperatures.
Compatibility with cooktop
If you already have a cooktop, it’s important to check if the cookware is compatible with it. For example, if you have an induction cooktop, the cookware needs to be made from magnetic material like stainless steel or cast iron in order for it to work properly.
Size of Each Piece
It’s also important to consider the size of each piece in the set as well as how much food they can hold. For example, a small frying pan(6 to 8 inches) may be fine for cooking one or two eggs but it wouldn’t be suitable for cooking a large batch of stir fry.
Durability
Ensure the cookware is built from a sturdy base and provides excellent heat retention. The handles should also be easy to hold and strong enough to move around without worrying about snapping them off.
Ease of Cleaning
As a beginner, there are chances that you may burn a dish or two, but that’s totally okay. No one is born perfect, and it requires practice to master such skills but cleaning the burnt pots isn’t a fascinating experience that anyone wants to try.
To save yourself from this heft, consider buying nonstick cookware instead of stainless steel or others with sticking bases.
Best Cookware Set for Beginners – Our Top Picks
I do remember my time as a beginner in the kitchen, and I know it can be overwhelming to decide on which cookware set to go with. So, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite sets for beginners that met all of the criteria mentioned above.
1. T-Fal Signature Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
- Brand: T-Fal
- Number of Pieces: 12
- Weight: 11.46 pounds
- Material: Aluminum, Glass Lids, Plastic Handles
- Finish/Coating: Titanium Nonstick
- Oven Safe: up to 350°F
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Induction safe: No
The T-Fal signature cookware set has a professional look with exciting features that provide excellent value for health and money. The cookware’s ProGlide nonstick interior is designed for low-fat cooking and is entirely free of toxins.
The manufacturer advises rubbing a little cooking oil into the pan before using it for the first time. The Nonstick quality is quite good and the heavy gauge aluminum provides excellent heat retention.
The best feature of T-fal is the patented Thermo spot indicator, it lets you know when the pan is preheated and ready to use.
The lids to the set are pretty well made and have plastic over the handles to keep you safe from burning your hands while cooking. They also placed small silicone spacers between the handle rivets to protect the lids from shattering due to the metal up against the glass.
Moreover, the plastic handles are heat resistant and safe for oven usage up to 350°F.
My Thoughts about T-Fal Signature
Overall, the T-fal signature is an excellent choice for those starting out in the kitchen, or just looking to upgrade their current cookware set. The nonstick and toxin-free interior make it a healthier option, while the Thermo spot indicator and heat-resistant handles add convenience.
On the flip side, though the manufacturer claims that the cookware is scratch resistant, the nonstick does seem to scratch if you use metal utensils. It’s also not induction compatible, so bear that in mind if you have an induction cooktop.
Overall, the set is pretty basic and will work fine as a decent starter set.
2. Amazon Basics Non-Stick 15-Piece Cookware Set
- Brand: Amazon Basics
- Number of Pieces: 15
- Weight: 12.71 pounds
- Material: Aluminum, Glass Lids, Plastic Handles
- Finish/Coating: Nonstick
- Oven Safe: Most of the pieces are not
- Dishwasher Safe: No
- Induction safe: No
The Amazon Basics cookware has almost everything a beginner requires at a very affordable cost. The cookware set comes with an 8- and 10-inch fry pan, a 1.5- and 2-quart saucepan with lid, and a 3- and 5-quart casserole pan with lid, also a 5-piece utensil set to use along with the set.
The set is a breeze to clean, all credit to its excellent BPA-free nonstick coating. The plastic handles are also cool and easy to hold onto.
The all-black exterior looks elegant in all kitchen settings. Though it’s recommended to use it on low to medium flame as high heat can damage the coating and handles too.
Also, the glass lids have vents that let steam escape, allowing you a clear vision of food inside. The spiral bottom of each piece provides even heat distribution, so don’t worry about getting hotspots while you cook. The cookware pans are all oven-safe but aren’t dishwasher compatible.
My Thoughts about Amazon Basics Cookware
From a budget point of view, no other cookware set can beat Amazon Basics, it has all the necessary cookware for a beginner and decent nonstick coating. However, it’s not induction compatible and can’t be used on high heat.
As a catch, it is a complete set that you can give as a housewarming gift to yourself or your friends, and it has absolutely everything you need to cook right away.
3. Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set
- Brand: Rachael Ray
- Number of Pieces: 12
- Weight: pounds
- Material: Hard Anodized Aluminum, Glass Lids, Silicone covered Stainless Steel Handles
- Finish/Coating: Nonstick
- Oven Safe: up to 400°F
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Induction safe: No
The Rachel Ray Hard Anodized cookware is a perfect combo of aesthetics and functionality. This appealing cookware is affordable but is on the high price side compared to Rachel’s Non-stick collection.
The cookware comes in three color variants, allowing you to choose the one that looks best with your kitchen’s color scheme.
The cookware is oven-safe up to 400°F, so you can move the pans from stove to oven right away! The stainless steel handles covered in colorful silicone sheath look elegant and are comfortable to hold and move around.
The cookware requires less storage space, thus is an ideal choice for kitchens with limited space too. The hard anodized aluminum is 2x hard as a stainless steel base enhancing its durability.
My Thoughts about Rachael Ray Cookware
The pots and pans are undoubtedly brilliant, but on the flip side, the utensils that come with them are pretty uncomfortable. Many reviewers complained about receiving dented or damaged pieces, so perhaps the brand should look more into providing great packaging.
The exterior scratches easily, so be careful while moving it around. The glass lids are also not shatter-resistant, so avoid using them on high heat.
Overall this fantastic set is a perfect choice for home chefs of all levels.
4. BELLA 21 Piece Cook Bake and Store Kitchen Essentials Set
- Brand: BELLA
- Number of Pieces: 21
- Weight: 19.51 pounds
- Material: Nylon, Aluminum, Glass
- Finish/Coating: Nonstick
- Oven Safe: Cookware up to 350 °F; Bakeware up to 400 °F
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Induction safe: Yes
If you don’t own any previous cookware and are looking to buy one, then opt for this Bella 21-piece cookware set. The set comes with all the essential items your kitchen needs to prepare everyday meals.
All the cookware pieces in this set are nonstick to provide the consumers with simple food release and effortless cleanup.
Got leftovers? While the other cookware manufacturers only focus on cooking utensils, Bella took a step ahead and added glass storage bowls with clasp lids to save the excess food too. The set also contains baking sheets so you can enjoy the baked goods. Very thoughtful of them, ain’t it?
The sturdy plastic handles are easy to grasp and don’t heat up during cooking meals. The utensils also have holes on the end so you can hang them and keep your kitchen organized. The cookware is compatible with all stovetop ranges, inclusive of induction too.
My Thoughts about BELLA Cookware
No doubt it comes with extra cookware and bakeware, but I found that the cookware is not as durable as other sets. The nonstick coating tends to wear off once the cookware is used for a couple of months. I recommend using nylon or wooden utensils with this set to preserve the nonstick coating as much as possible.
5. Cook N Home Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set
- Brand: Cook N Home
- Number of Pieces: 10
- Weight: 16 pounds
- Material: Aluminum, Glass Lids, Plastic Handles
- Finish/Coating: Ceramic Nonstick
- Oven Safe: No
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Induction safe: No
This cookware set is made of sturdy aluminum for even heat distribution and features a ceramic nonstick coating for hassle-free cooking. Each pot has a tempered glass lid that lets you check on your dishes without taking them off.
The handles are designed to be cool and have a firm grip for better control. The cookware’s bright exterior is quite attractive and has a moderate weight which helps to make it sturdy and durable.
The fact that the rims are made of aluminum instead of stainless steel makes the ceramic more prone to chipping when kept improperly. The cookware bottom isn’t smooth, so it can scratch your glass cooktop.
The nonstick interior is free of PFOA, PFTE, and cadmium, so don’t worry about getting toxins into your food while cooking.
My Thoughts about Cook N Home Cookware
Cook N Home ceramic cookware set is a great choice for beginners because of its nonstick coating and sturdy aluminum construction. The tempered glass lids and cool grip handles make it easy to use.
However, using medium to low heat is recommended as lower temperatures guarantee excellent heat conductivity for the ceramic finish and protect the handles.
Overall, if you want colorful and affordable cookware set for basic cooking tasks, this is a good option.
My Recommendations
I know it’s getting a little hard for you to choose which to select as your ideal first set because I felt the same way, too, when I was in your position. To save you from this dilemma, I have picked my top three based on the judgments below.
Best Pick: T-Fal Signature Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
The best pick for beginners’ cookware is the T-fal Signature Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set. It offers durable construction, reliable nonstick coating, and heat-resistant handles at an affordable price. Plus, it’s dishwasher and oven safe for added convenience.
Budget Friendly: Amazon Basics Non-Stick 15-Piece Cookware Set
Our budget pick is Amazon Basics Non-Stick 15-Piece Cookware Set. It has all the essential pieces that a newbie needs, and that too at a meager cost. It’s a promising option available in this price range that will help you big time in your new cooking journey.
Editor’s Choice: Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set
And our Editor’s Choice is Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set. It offers great value for its price, with a wide array of pieces, durable construction, and sturdy handles. Plus, the lovely color adds charm to your kitchen.
FAQs
Is nonstick cookware safe?
Nonstick cookware, when made without PFOA, PFTE, and cadmium, is safe to use.
How to make nonstick cookware last longer?
using metal utensils and cooking at high heat with nonstick pans can cause the coating to flake off and shorten its lifespan. It’s best to use wooden or silicone utensils and cook on low to medium heat for longer-lasting nonstick performance.
Stainless steel vs nonstick which is good for beginners?
It really depends on personal preference. Nonstick cookware is easier to use and clean, but it has a shorter lifespan compared to stainless steel. Stainless steel may be more difficult to use for beginners, but it’s durable and can last for many years with proper care. It’s best to experiment and see which works better for you.
Which is a good brand of cookware?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as different brands offer varying features and qualities. Some popular and well-reviewed brands include T-fal, Calphalon, Cuisinart, All-Clad, and Rachael Ray, GreenPan.
Conclusion
And here we come to the end of this guide! This is a lot to take in, but I hope it has been helpful. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it, and If you have any questions or would like further clarification on anything I’ve written here, please feel free to comment below.
