Great cookware is one of the best investments that you can make. If your cookware is worn out, stained or has too many burns, it is time to replace it. A brand new cookware set will not only inspire you while cooking but will also elevate your mood. Before you start looking for a new cookware set, it is essential to know what you are looking for.
This way, you will get the most at the best price. Make sure you are aware of the basic types of pots and pans that come in a complete cookware set. Also, keep in mind the features of cookware sets that include heating, performance, durability and non-stick options.
Since there are various cookware sets to pick from, you might feel overwhelmed when looking for the right one. If you can’t find the best inexpensive cookware set– worry no more. We have done all the research for you, which will make your decision much easier. Read more to find all about the best inexpensive cookware set and what factors you need to consider before getting one.
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Best Inexpensive Cookware Sets Comparison Table
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Inexpensive Cookware Sets Reviews
The AmazonBasics cookware set comes with an 8-piece set, which includes an 8-inch frying pan, a 10-inch frying pan, 3 saucepans with lids and a casserole pan with a lid. This cookware set is non-stick, so you won’t have to season it.
A non-stick surface means that the set is durable and reliable. It will not rust or stain; hence, it is also very easy to clean. A non-stick surface allows you to use metal cutlery on your cookware set and enables you to cook at high temperatures without worrying about damaging the pots. This cookware set is made of high quality aluminum and does not contain any harmful chemicals. The AmazonBasics cookware set will never allow chemicals from the pots or pans to transfer to your food when you are cooking – no matter how high the temperature is.
One of the best things about the AmazonBasics cookware set is that it is extremely lightweight, so it is extremely travel-friendly. This cookware set is compact and easy to store, so you will never have to worry about making room for it in your travel bag or kitchen counter. It has comfortable handles, which stay cool at all times, and glass lids that are vented, allowing steam to pass through them. This prevents the pot from getting too hot when you are cooking. The AmazonBasics cookware set is not meant for dishwasher use, so you will have to wash it yourself.
This cookware set comes with even heating, so you will never have to worry about your food being uncooked. This cookware set cannot be used on induction cooktops but can be easily used on glass, electric and gas stovetops. This cookware set comes at an extremely affordable price and will last you a long time. The AmazonBasics cookware set will also make a great gift for your friends or family this holiday season.
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Cons
The Cuisinart cookware set is made of high quality ceramic and comes with a titanium interior. This cookware set can cook food for 3 to 5 people, so it is perfect for small families and gatherings.
Ceramic is one of the best materials for cookware sets since it is durable and can withstand high temperatures. Ceramic pots tend to last a long time since they do not damage very easily. The Cuisinart cookware set has a non-stick coating, which helps prevent chemicals from the pots and pans to transfer to your food– even at high temperatures.
The non-stick coating also prevents rusting and stains and makes cleaning easier. Thanks to the coating, you can use metal cutlery on the surface of this pan. With this set, you won’t even have to season the pots and pans. This cookware set is oven-safe to 350 degrees.
The Cuisinart cookware set is free of all types of chemicals and comes with silicone handles, which are sturdy enough to hold all kinds of food. This cookware set is lightweight and compact, so it is extremely travel-friendly. The lids of this cookware set will stay cool when the pot is on the stove and are made of glass. The rims of the Cuisinart cookware set are tapered, which makes it easy to clean and pour liquids.
This cookware set is not dishwasher safe and cannot be used on induction cooktops. The surface of the pans and pots in this set evenly divide heat across the whole pan, which heats your food faster and reduces cooking time. The Cuisinart cookware set is safe to use and can be stored in the freezer. It comes with a lifetime warranty, so it is a safe buy.
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Cons
The Cook N Home cookware set includes a saucepan, 2 casserole pans, 3 casserole pots, a stockpot and a 10-inch frying pan with lids. This cookware set is made of high quality stainless steel, which is durable and reliable. This 12-piece cookware set also has an aluminum layer at the bottom, which evenly distributes heat when you are cooking.
The pots and pans have a sleek design. The interior of the Cook N Home cookware set is polished, which makes it look shinier and brighter as compared to other pots. These pots are extremely easy to clean. After you’re done using them, wash them with warm water and dish soap. Make sure to keep them in a dry place in your kitchen so they don’t get rusty.
The Cook N Home cookware set comes with strong glass lids, which will not shatter even under high temperatures. These lids make it easy to peek inside your pot or pan while the food is cooking. This cookware also has sturdy handles, so it is convenient to carry them. Thanks to its lightweight, the Cook N Home cookware is extremely travel-friendly.
This cookware set is not oven safe and since it is made of steel, it is known to heat up very quickly. Make sure to always wear mittens when using this cookware set or you might burn yourself. Keep your children away from the kitchen when you are using this cookware set to cook food. The Cook N Home cookware set is compatible with gas, glass, electric, ceramic and induction cooktops. It is not dishwasher safe, so you will have to wash all the pots yourself. This 12-piece cookware set has a 2-year warranty, so it is a safe buy.
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Cons
The SHINEURI cookware set is a multi-purpose set, which includes 10 pieces - an 8-inch frying pan, a 9.5-inch frying pan with a lid, 2 sauce pans with lids, a stainless steel steamer and a casserole pan with a lid. This cookware set can be used to roast, stew, fry and steam food at home or at a party. The pans have a ceramic and an aluminum-copper interior, so you don’t have to worry about rust.
The SHINEURI 10-piece cookware set can evenly distribute heat to the bottom and surface of the pan, which allows you to easily cook food in less time. Thanks to its aluminum interior, this pan can withstand high temperatures up to 550 degrees, so you can easily use it in the oven. However, the glass lids can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees only.
The set comes with a non-stick coating, so it is easy to clean. The non-stick coating will also make sure no chemicals from the pan transfer to your food no matter how long you use the pan for. You can easily use metal utensils on the surface of this pan without worrying about discoloration or damaging the interior of the pan. It has a BPA-free non-stick coating, so you will not have to worry about butter or oil sticking to the surface. The SHINEURI cookware set does not need to be seasoned.
It comes with sturdy stainless steel handles, which may get hot when the pan is on the stove – make sure to wear gloves when handling these pans and pots at all times. This cookware set is lightweight and portable. It comes with a 1-year warranty, so it is a safe purchase.
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The KUTIME cookware set comes with 6 pieces, which includes 2 frying pans, a stockpot with a lid and a 6-inch milk pan with a lid. This cookware set is diverse enough to help you cook, roast and even steam food in the kitchen. One of the best things about the KUTIME 6-piece cookware set is that it comes with a non-stick coating, which has various advantages of its own.
The KUTIME 6 piece cookware set does not need seasoning – you can start cooking in these pots as soon as you get them out of the box. You also have the freedom to use metal cutlery on the surface of these pans and pots. This cookware set is made of high-quality materials and has no added chemicals – it is lead-free and cadmium-free, so it is a safe choice.
The bottom of the pans is made of three layers of aluminum, which allow fast heating and even distribution of heat. This cookware set can withstand high temperatures and will not cost you an arm and a leg. The KUTIME cookware set is oven safe, but not dishwasher safe since the non-stick ceramic coating can easily be damaged.
The lids of this cookware set are strong and will not shatter. This cookware set is anti-warping and comes with insulated sturdy handles, so you can touch them without wearing mittens. The pans of this set are lightweight and durable, so they don’t rust and corrode. This cookware is a good choice for health conscious families and is compatible with induction and gas stovetops. The set comes with a 1-year warranty and the brand has a friendly customer service, which is available 24/7.
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Best Inexpensive Cookware Sets Buyers Guide
Now that we have discussed the top 5 inexpensive cookware sets, you might be wondering how you can choose the best one for your needs. Here are some things that you have to consider when you are searching for the best cookware set so that you don’t regret your decision later on.
Material
Perhaps the most important factor to consider before investing in an affordable cookware set is the material of the cookware. There are different types of cookware – stainless steel, copper, ceramic and even aluminum. Some materials are better as compared to other materials and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Before buying cookware for your home, make sure to weigh the pros and cons of all the materials to see what is right for you. Here is a list of the most common types of cookware.
Stainless Steel
One of the most common cookware materials is stainless steel. The reason it is so common is that it lasts a long time. It doesn’t stain or rust since it is not reactive to acidic foods. This cookware material can also withstand high temperatures on the stove and the oven. Most stainless steel cookware sets can be used on induction cooktops since their pots are thick and heavy. Stainless steel cookware is also known to evenly distribute heat to the bottom of your pan, so you don’t have to worry about uncooked food.
Aluminum
Another common cookware material is aluminum. Aluminum usually comes with a non-coating on the surface of the pan and pots since it makes the material more durable. Aluminum is a good choice if you’re looking for affordable cookware sets that will last a long time without damaging, discoloring or rusting. Keep in mind that aluminum cookware pots may heat up quickly, but they cannot be used in ovens or with induction cooktops. Most aluminum cookware pots and pans are not safe to use in the dishwasher either, but they are generally easy to clean.
Ceramic Cast Iron
Ceramic cast iron is a good choice if you’re in the market looking for cookware pots. These pots have a diverse range and can be used to cook, steam, braise, fry and even bake various items. Ceramic cast iron is a durable cookware material since it lasts for a long time. It is also lightweight and easy to carry, so it is a great travel companion. It is also compatible with gas, electric and induction cooktops.
Ceramic cast iron cookware sets come with a coating, so they don’t need to be seasoned. This coating makes things much easier when it comes to cleaning and cooking. You can cook acidic foods on these pots without worrying about rust or grime sticking. After you are done cooking, all you will have to do is rinse them and all the food will slide right off. Some ceramic cast iron pots are shiny, and if you don’t want them to lose their shine, make sure to wash them after every use. Keep in mind to use a soft cloth when cleaning them so that you don’t damage the coating.
Copper
Copper is the best heat conductor for cookware. It heats instantly and cools down very quickly too. However, it does have some drawbacks. It is highly reactive. If you choose to buy a copper cookware set, it is a good idea to not cook acidic foods in it as it can affect the taste of the food. As mentioned before, copper cookware can also heat up extremely quickly, so keep it away from children. Most copper cookware sets are compatible with induction cooktops but not with gas stovetops.
Coatings
Another important factor to keep in mind when buying a cookware set is the coating. If your cookware set is not coated, that means you will have to season all your pots before you start using them. A coating means your cookware can be easily cleaned and you can use metal utensils on the surface. If you’re scared of harmful chemicals that may be present in the coating, check before buying. Most cookware sets mention how they are lead, cadmium and BPA free so you have nothing to worry about.
Size
The size of your cookware set is important since it will make a big difference once you actually use it. When shopping for a cookware set, you may get confused, but now is the time to envision your kitchen space in your head. What would look good on the counters? Do you want huge pots covering your shelves or do you want average sized frying pans that will not clutter your kitchen?
If you have a huge kitchen with a lot of extra space, there is no harm in getting a big cookware set. On the other hand, if you have limited kitchen space, there are various cookware sets that fit in with the minimal style.
Shape
Cookware sets have various pots and pans that have different shapes, sizes and purposes. When buying a cookware set for your kitchen, make sure to know what shape is best for what purpose. For example, shallow pots are best for foods that have a lot of water, whereas tall pots are perfect for foods that have a lot of sauces.
Lids
Lids are an essential part of cookware sets, so it is important to keep them in mind when making a purchase. Lids can be interchangeable and are made with different materials. Glass lids are pretty common since they are see through, so you can keep an eye on your food when it is heating or steaming. Keep in mind that some glass lids are prone to shatter since they might not be able to withstand extremely high temperatures on the stove or the high oven heat. So always check the intensity of heat that the lids can withstand before buying a cookware set.
Weight
Another factor to consider when buying a cookware set is the weight of your set. If you are planning to cook at home where your pots will stay all year long, it is okay to get cookware that is made of metal since those pots will be a little thicker and heavier. However, you don’t want something that is too heavy as that will make it hard for you to pick up the pot or pan. On the other hand, if you camp out a lot and want to buy cookware for that reason, then it is a good idea to get ceramic cast iron, as it is lightweight, can withstand warping and temperature changes.
Accessories
Some cookware sets come with accessories, including different utensils, an instruction manual, steamers, boilers, silicone handles and extra lids. When you are buying a cookware set, try to get a set with as many accessories as possible at the best price.
Types of Pots and Pans in the Set
Skillet
A skillet is a frying pan that is usually used for grilling, searing, browning and frying foods. Skillets have shallow sides, deep slopes and a wide, long bottom. Skillets usually come without lids since the food needs open space when it is searing. The average sized skillet is 8-inches, which is the best for making sandwiches. Many people use 10-inch skillets in their kitchen, which are perfect for 2 people. 12-inch skillets are less common, but they are a good choice if you have a whole family to feed.
Sauté pan
A sauté pan is a type of skillet, but unlike a skillet that has sloped sides, a sauté pan’s sides are straight. It includes a long, plastic handle and a smaller handle on another side of the pan, which makes it easier to lift it when you are cooking. Unlike skillets, sauté pans usually come with a strong lid. These pans are mostly used to braise, cook and sauté huge amounts of food, which contain a lot of water and steam. The most common sauté pans are the 3-quart and 5-quart pans – the 3-quart is perfect for 2 people, whereas the 5 quart is a good choice for a family.
Saucepan
Saucepans are one of the most common kitchen pots and come with a long handle and straight, wide sides. These pans have a fitted, glass lid at the top and are mostly used to heat and cook foods like rice, sauces, soups, vegetables and stews. Most cookware sets include 2 and 4-quart saucepans since they are perfect for a family.
Stockpot
Stockpots are round pots that are tall and come with fitted glass lids. These pots are mostly used for cooking soups, corn on the cob, stews or even pasta. These pots are big, so make sure you can handle the weight before carrying them. An 8-quart stockpot is big enough for a family of four and is included in most cookware sets.
FAQ’s
What type of cookware is induction compatible?
Most cookware sets are compatible with induction cooktops, but some are only compatible with gas and electric stovetops. A cookware set that has a layer of iron underneath it will be compatible with an induction cooktop. To work on an induction stovetop, a pot or pan must have some magnetic properties. This is why cast iron and stainless steel cookware sets can be used on induction cooktops but copper, glass and aluminum cookware sets cannot. Before buying a cookware set, make sure to check its properties or the instruction manual to check if they are compatible with your cooktop.
What is a non-stick anodized coating?
A non-stick anodized coating is mostly found on aluminum and ceramic cookware since it hardens the surface and makes sure your pan is safe from corrosion, rust and other stains. If your cookware set has a non-stick coating, you can easily use metal utensils on it and not worry about seasoning it. A non-stick coating also makes things easier when it comes to cleaning – thanks to the slippery coating, the sticky food will simply slide off.
Is nonstick cookware safe?
Non-stick cookware is completely safe. Most non-stick cookware sets come without BPA, PFOA and Cadmium, so you have nothing to worry about. Even if your non-stick pan does have PFOA, you don’t have to be scared as long as you are using the pan properly. Make sure not to overheat it or use dish soap to clean it.
Final Words
There are various cookware sets to choose from. Each cookware set comes with its own unique features. For your ease, we have discussed some of the best inexpensive cookware sets in 2019. We have also compiled a buyer’s guide that you should consider when shopping for these products. This should make it easier for you to choose a set that meets your needs. In short, when you are choosing the best cookware set, consider the material used, the coating, size, weight and the number of accessories you are getting with the set. Keeping these factors in mind will help you make the right decision!
