New York Magazine’s The Strategist has done exhaustive research to discover that Made In’s Cookware Set rises above the rest. Their in-depth testing has evaluated all aspects of the best cookware sets on the market, taking into account everything that home chefs should consider.
Made In stood its ground against stiff competition and considered various materials, styles, designs, and value. After all the dust has settled, here is a recap of why The Strategist selected Made In as the number one cookware set available today.
Summary Table
What Makes a Great Cookware Set?
Every kitchen has a different set of requirements based on volume and cooking style. But no matter how you run your kitchen, you should always evaluate your cookware based on the following criteria.
Durability—This is one of the most important qualities all consumers should prioritize. Sturdy, well-built cookware can handle high heat, work with a variety of utensils, and keep performing consistently over time. Choosing durable cookware protects your investment, ensuring your cookware won’t need to be replaced for many years.
Material Quality—The quality of your cookware material contributes to its durability, responsiveness to heat, reactivity to ingredients, and overall performance. Be sure you know what type of material your cookware is manufactured with and what you’ll be using it for before purchasing.
Heat Distribution—Varying materials will conduct heat differently and can produce a wide range of results for many different dishes. Heat distribution refers to how the heat is spread across the surface and sides of your cookware. Even heat will ensure that food cooks consistently without scorching or burning in spots.
Handle Ergonomics—Handles come in all shapes and sizes. They are designed to assist with moving your cookware from one place to another with ease. Some handles are oven safe, while some are not. Most cooks want something that fits comfortably in the hand and has a nice balance.
Versatility—Home chefs with limited storage space will want the most versatile cookware they can find. Being able to use one pan or pot for various cooking techniques is a significant advantage. It will also help them make informed decisions about their next purchase as they develop their skills and learn how new cookware can enhance their skills.
Value—Everyone loves a good deal, so it's all about finding a balance between the quality of the product and the price tag. Premium products like Made In deliver high value because the price reflects the quality, durability, and versatility they provide. Other products offer value as well, but it can be harder to spot through creative marketing and reviews written by less experienced home cooks.
Brand Recap
- Made In Stainless Set is honored as the “Best cookware set overall” due to its six, ten, or thirteen-piece configurations, excellent build quality (akin to All-Clad), thoughtful design, and both stainless-steel and non-stick coverage, New York Magazine.
- Made In Carbon Steel Griddle + Press earns “Best griddle set” recognition for its ability to maximize surface area and conduct heat evenly, New York Magazine.
- GreenPan Chatham Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware is known for its versatility and ease of use for less experienced home chefs. Although the durability is not quite elite, anyone who values non-stick options will be delighted with this set, New York Magazine.
- Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Set can be used for a wide variety of cooking and is a preferred set for campers and those who want tough cookware. If you can learn the intricacies of caring for this set properly, then you’ll be able to hand it down to future family generations, New York Magazine.
- Mauviel Copper Triply Cookware Set offers experienced cooks unparalleled temperature control. They heat quickly, evenly, and cool quickly. If you have the experience and knowledge to care for them properly, then copper makes for an amazing cookware set, New York Magazine.
Comparison Table: Made In vs. Other Sets
Made In Spotlight: Why It Stands Out
- Provides a cohesive multi-material experience: ceramic nonstick, stainless-clad fry pans, robust sauciers, and even carbon steel options for versatility, New York Magazine.
- Built to last like All-Clad, with thoughtful ergonomic design: well-balanced handles, snug lids, and consistent heating, New York Magazine.
- Personal and professional testimonials underscore its performance: “nonstick still in good shape after heavy use” and “carbon steel gets blazing hot and cooks evenly,” New York Magazine.
Care Tips Section
Each cooking surface will come with specific care instructions, so be sure to refer to the manufacturer's instructions. But if you have been gifted cookware from friends or family, then consult the lists below based on your cooking material.
Stainless Steel
- Always let hot pans cool before adding water for cleaning.
- For stuck-on food, deglaze the surface with water while the pan is still warm before washing.
- Use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge or brush; avoid steel wool.
- For stubborn stains, use a specialty cleaner like Made In’s Stainless Steel Cleaner.
- Handwashing is preferred to preserve the finish.
- Always store fully dry and use pan protectors or towels between pieces to prevent scratches.
Carbon Steel/Cast Iron
- Always wipe out residue and only wash with warm water and a soft sponge/brush. Avoid long soaks.
- For stuck-on food, add a splash of water, bring to a brief simmer, and loosen with a wooden scraper. Alternatively, scrub with a mixture of water or oil and coarse salt, then rinse.
- Avoid dishwashers, bleach, oven cleaner, and harsh abrasives that can strip seasoning.
- Dry immediately and thoroughly: towel-dry, then warm the pan on low heat to evaporate moisture from pores and rivets.
- Season immediately after cleaning by applying a very thin film of high–smoke point oil. Heat until it smokes, then wipe dry.
Ceramic
- Allow the cookware to cool before washing to avoid thermal shock that can weaken ceramic coatings.
- Handwash as much as possible, even if the instructions say “dishwasher safe”. Use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge or nylon brush.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools and solutions, such as steel wool, scouring powders, melamine erasers, bleach, ammonia, oven cleaner, and strong degreasers, as they can dull or damage ceramic finishes.
- For stubborn film or staining on ceramic, use a Ceramic Cleaner.
- Always fully dry right away with a soft towel, then let the pan sit warm (not hot) for a minute to evaporate moisture from rims, rivets, and lid hardware.
- Store completely dry with lids off or ajar to prevent trapped moisture and odors.
Copper
- Handwash only with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge or brush. Avoid the dishwasher.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to prevent water spots and tarnish; buff the copper with a soft cloth.
- After towel-drying, warm the pan briefly on low to dry moisture from rivets and rolled rims, then cool before storing.
- For stuck-on food, simmer water. For best results, use a pinch of baking soda in the water and remove with a nylon/wood scraper. Avoid aggressive scouring.
- Avoid prolonged soaking, especially around seams and handle hardware. This will encourage corrosion and loosen the rivets.
- Hanging after they are completely dry and cool is fine if the hooks are padded and pieces don’t rub against each other. Avoid stacking heavy items on them.
Conclusion
The competition for the best cookware is stiff these days, but The Strategist’s tests have proven that Made In’s Cookware Set rises to the top amongst the premium cookware options for many reasons. The wide selection of products, quality craftsmanship, and versatility are just a few characteristics that make Made In the number one cookware set on the market today.
Complete cookware sets are available, but the Made In website makes it easy to shop à la carte, allowing you to customize your kitchen to suit your needs perfectly. Shop now to take the stress out of cooking, start making dishes you never thought possible, and enjoy cooking more while eating well every meal.
