The Best Nonstick Cookware Sets of 2021
The Best Nonstick Cookware Sets of 2021
Having at least one nonstick pan is essential in every cook's kitchen, from the most professional to the very beginners. It's almost impossible to make eggs without one, they make pan searing fish a lot easier, and they keep pancakes from tearing apart in the pan. Our favorite nonstick pans were the ones that could do it all, from cooking an egg with no oil, to searing a steak and being able to pop it in the dishwasher after. Below are our favorite nonstick pans, including top-tested picks, editor favorites, and new releases with innovative features that make cooking easy.
1) Rachael Ray Cucina 12-Piece Cookware Set
Rachael Ray
The Rachael Ray Cucina pans (made without Teflon) landed high scores in our tests for heat distribution and staining. They also scored high for easy release and browning. The two small pots are great for boiling eggs and heating soups, and the silicone-grip handles make moving them around easy. They’re a popular seller on Amazon seven color options, including agave blue, lavender, and pumpkin orange. The slotted spoon and fish spatula are a useful bonus.
2) Calphalon Classic Pots and Pans Set
Calphalon
Made of anodized aluminum (with a nonstick finish that's Teflon-free), this line combines unbeatable performance with durability. The dishwasher-safe pieces with stay-cool handles and lids stack easily to free up storage space. We were blown away by the pieces’ outstanding heat distribution, quick boiling and even searing. The nonstick coating was so effective that we could scramble eggs or sauté veggies without oil or butter — they slid right off the pan!
3) T-fal Nonstick 12 Piece Cookware Set
T-fal
We're all about pots and pans that look chic, but get the job done. T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set features high-performing pots and pans that'll cook your food quickly and evenly. The pans have sturdy easy grip handles that'll make moving them from the stove to the oven (they're oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit) easy as pie.
4) All-Clad E785SB64 13-Piece
All-Clad
The All Clad Nonstick Cookware Set was a top performer in our cookware tests. It heated evenly, prevented food from sticking, and browned meat very well. Now, trusty All Clad released a new nonstick line that could also go in the oven up to 500°F. We’re fans of sets like these that include small and medium sauteé pans, both of which fit into the larger pan for storage.
We also like that each pan has a helper handle, which allows for easy movability. The entire set is dishwasher safe and Teflon-free.
5) GreenLife Soft Grip Cookware Set
Scanpan
Unlike many nonstick pans, these can be used for high-heat searing, plus they're oven safe up to 350°F (!) and super easy to clean. The handles are comfortable to hold and each piece is relatively lightweight.
6) HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 7-Piece Cookware Set
HEXCLAD
amazon.com
Even professional chefs rely on nonstick skillets to cook tricky items like eggs and fish. It’s evident that HexClad knows that from looking at their product line, which only includes skillets and one wok. Unlike traditional nonstick pans, they’re designed to withstand high temperatures in order to achieve a good sear. They can also go in the oven up to 500°F and can be used with metal utensils.
We use our 8-inch pan to fry crispy eggs in olive oil all the time. We also use it to make fluffy scrambled eggs with butter. HexClad pans boast a patented hexagon design that’s laser etched onto the inside and outside of the pan. This layer provides the nonstick attribute, while still allowing the pan to get very hot and cook evenly thanks to its stainless steel base and aluminum middle layer. The design on the outside helps prevent staining and allows for easier cleanup. Hex Clad pans are Teflon-free.
7) Amazon Basics Non-Stick Cookware Set
T-fal
The nonstick coating on Amazon Basics' pots and pans makes them foolproof when it comes to turning out crepes, frittatas, and other sticky foods. Their ergonomic handles stay cool to the touch, so they’re extra comfortable to use when cooking. In our tests, scrambled eggs and pancakes cooked evenly with zero sticking, and marinara sauce simmered steadily even if we didn’t stir it. Whether you hand-wash or use the dishwasher, these pieces clean up beautifully thanks to their dark nonstick finish inside and out.
8) Zwilling Forté Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set
williams-sonoma.com
Zwilling's Forté line is here to challenge the notion that nonstick cookware is flimsy. The aluminum pans have five layers of Teflon-fee nonstick coating. The five layers make them super durable and resistant to peeling, scratching, or corrosion. They're also induction friendly. In our tests, they won top scores for cleaning and maintaining cool handles during cooking.
These pots and pans are a must-have kitchen staple.