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Concerns over per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), otherwise known as “forever chemicals,” have more home chefs eyeing stainless steel and cast iron as safer cookware choices. Experts say PFAS can be released into food when nonstick pans are overheated or scratched — potentially leading to persistent chemicals in our bodies and the environment.
Swapping to a durable alternative like stainless steel means one less worry about peeling coatings or hidden toxins — though you can still use nonstick pans if you keep heat under 500 degrees, avoid metal utensils and retire any pan with flaking surfaces. Still, top brands like Le Creuset, Caraway, Cuisinart and more offer stainless steel sets that are PFAS-free — and some are surprisingly affordable.
Stainless steel might feel like a bigger investment initially, but the payoff is easier maintenance, better searing and peace of mind. We’ll show you how to get the best results from these shiny pans — plus our top picks if you’re ready to make the switch.
How to cook with stainless steel pans
Cooking on stainless steel can be a breeze when done right. First, preheat your pan on medium heat for a few minutes — this warms the steel so your food doesn’t stick. Next, add a bit of oil or butter, swirling it around to coat the surface. Once the oil shimmers, toss in your ingredients.
Make sure to give food time to release naturally from the steel before flipping or stirring. According to All-Clad’s guide, the trick is proper heat management — too hot can cause scorching, too cold can lead to sticking. Finally, a quick soak and a bit of scrubbing is all you need to keep your cookware looking brand new.
Best stainless steel cooking sets
Le Creuset Essential Stainless Steel 5-Piece Cookware Set
This is a great stainless steel starter set. Le Creuset is known for its craftsmanship and heat distribution, and this set’s frying pan is great for getting that sought-after sear on meats and even simple breakfast dishes. And Le Creuset stainless steel is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe to 500 degrees.
Caraway Stainless Steel Cookware Set (4 Piece)
Caraway’s 5-ply steel ensures consistent heat distribution across each pot and pan. The set, named the Best of the Best by our testers, includes a fry pan, sauce pan, saute pan and Dutch oven, all free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).
Cuisinart 11-Piece Cookware Set
Cuisinart’s timeless design shines in this stainless set, featuring a mirror finish that looks at home in any kitchen. The tight-fitting lids help lock in moisture, and the aluminum-encapsulated bases distribute heat evenly.
Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set with Lids
With tri-ply construction — stainless steel sandwiched around an aluminum core — these pots and pans deliver professional-level results. National Science Foundation (NSF)-certified for quality, they’re safe on induction cooktops, and each piece comes with sturdy, riveted handles.
All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Frying Pan with Lid
A longtime favorite of chefs, this tri-ply All-Clad fry pan has a broad cooking surface for browning, sauteing and stir-frying. Its snug lid helps keep in steam or reduce splatter and the riveted steel handle stays cool.
Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
The Calphalon Classic line features measuring marks, strain lids and pour spouts integrated right into pots. The impact-bonded aluminum base conducts heat quickly, perfect for even browning, and they’re oven-safe up to 450 degrees, so you can easily finish a dish under the broiler.
American Kitchen – 3-piece Stainless Steel Skillet & Frying Pan Set
Made in the USA, these three skillets (8, 10, and 12 inches) handle everything from breakfast eggs to dinnertime steaks. Each pan’s ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip, and the sturdy construction holds up to frequent flipping.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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