I want to feel like I'm a part of an episode of best chef? Of course you do. Getting the best stainless steel pots is the fastest way to instantly upgrade your home kitchen and ensure no one tells you to pack your knives and leave the kitchen. Classic stainless steel pots have come a long way in terms of technology and design, but there are too many options (and conditions). 3 layers vs. 5 layers? What exactly is a copper core? All of these refer to layers of metal that affect the pot's performance, and different configurations will result in different pot prices.
“Durability is important because cookware is something you buy once and never have to worry about,” explains Rob Zwirtz, executive chef at Bar Madonna. “Look for 'cladded' pots, where the cooking surface is layered or reinforced with a highly conductive metal such as aluminum. This allows for even heat distribution. ”
The best stainless steel pot chosen by GQ
You need a great stainless steel pot that will help you take your food from basic to basically amazing. Skip all the scrolling and get straight to our picks for stainless steel pots that are perfect for every home cook, from pot enthusiasts to those just looking for a pot.
- Overall the best stainless steel pot: Made in, $119
- best budget stainless steel pot: Tramontina, $47
- Best splurge stainless steel pots: All-Clad D5, $180
- Best main stainless steel pot: Ajisen $89
- Best professional stainless steel pot: Hestan insignia, $200
Stainless steel is very popular because it is durable, rust-resistant, and can withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures. The downside is that many people rely on nonstick pans and never learn how to use stainless steel properly. Stainless steel pots retain heat well, reach high temperatures, and have few hot spots. Restaurants are big fans of stainless steel pots, and food-grade steel is a top priority. No matter which style of stainless steel pot you prefer, check out some YouTube videos on best practices. You'll thank me later. The following recommendations are the result of countless hours of eggs sticking to the pan and finally, mercifully, getting it right.
Best stainless steel pan overall: Made In
The perfect frying pan is worth its weight in stainless steel. This Made In pan comes in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch versions to suit all your cooking needs. Heats quickly, adjusts to temperature seamlessly, and stays hot for as long as you need. Made In has a lot of great products and this one is no exception. Its status as a direct-to-consumer business allows the brand to produce high-end products at much more affordable prices than traditional brands can offer. To be honest, this pot performs as well as some of the big name brands, but at a slightly lower price. Additionally, Made In has established itself over the years and is now considered as “well-known” as the larger companies. The notch on the end of the handle is just right for easy hanging on the wall for storage, and the offset shape of the handle makes it very comfortable to hold and operate. This is a must for all-important sautés and stir-fries. As if that wasn't enough, the brushed metal exterior looks just as beautiful after use. A lid is not included, but if you absolutely need one, Made In sells a generic lid.
Affordable stainless steel pot: Tramontina
This clad frying pan has everything you want, including an easy-to-grip riveted handle, sloping sides, and excellent heat retention. Affordable workhouse skillets don't get any better than this. Despite the pot being sturdy and heavy, it was surprisingly easy to move around the kitchen. The tightly riveted handle felt balanced and secure even with lots of food inside. His three-layer construction with welded layers of metal ensures even heating and no hot spots that can cause charring (think unevenly browning chicken). These skillets have an excellent reputation for many good reasons. The sides of the pan are sloped compared to other pans, but the coating makes it easy to clean. Allow the pan to cool completely before using a mildly abrasive sponge or cleaner to ensure everything is washed away.
Best splurge stainless steel pot: All-Clad D5
All-clad D5 stainless steel pot. Tested and reviewed by Alissa Fitzgerald
All-clad D5 stainless steel pot. Tested and reviewed by Alissa Fitzgerald
All-Clad literally invented adhesive cookware and even though they've been in the game for over 50 years, their reputation is still intact. As the name suggests, this is a top-of-the-line 5-layer frying pan with all the features. 3 layers of stainless steel and his 2 layers of aluminum make this pan incredibly easy to use, providing excellent heating, excellent searing taste, and a cooling effect that exceeds your expectations. This is certainly a splurge item and requires just as much care as any other stainless steel pot. This All-Clad Pan is made in the USA and created for the slimmer at-home chef. america's test kitchen than Diners, drive-ins, and dives. The rivets are also spaced well apart, making cleaning between them easier than on many other models. Plus, it's safe to use at temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, so extra broiler time won't be an issue. This pot will last a lifetime, so please use it with care. They will take care of you (along with dinner).
The pinnacle of stainless steel pots: Misen 10-inch frying pan
From the smooth metal handle to the brushed exterior to the sleek body shape, this pot feels like an upgrade to an affordable Tramontina pick without veering into bougie territory. It looks great, feels solid, and the performance speaks for itself. The misen heated up quickly, cooked evenly, and the first pancake was perfectly baked. It's a little heavy, but not much heavier than other brands and models.
One thing to note is that Misen, unlike other brands, measures the bottom rather than the top, so this pot may be larger than other pots in the same size category in the collection. That means there is. Either way, this pot is fun, functional, and makes a great gift for yourself or someone else.
Highest Professional Grade: Hestan Insignia
Hestan's Insignia stainless steel pot. Tested by Tyler Chin and reviewed by Alissa Fitzgerald
Hestan's Insignia stainless steel pot. Tested by Tyler Chin and reviewed by Alissa Fitzgerald
Hestan's entire line of Insignia pots and pans feel like they were meant to be used in professional kitchens. Once again, world-renowned chef Thomas Keller has a say in every detail of this cookware. The best feature of this pot is the handle, which minimizes heat transfer so you won't accidentally burn your hands. It also has a more ergonomic angle, which any professional chef will tell you is the perfect feel if you want to avoid carpal tunnel.
