I’ll never forget moving into my first apartment and buying everything I needed for my kitchen. The task of buying my first pieces of cookware was daunting. Admittedly, not much thought went into it. I simply purchased the one that was the cheapest. And, I got what I paid for. The pans were small and scratched up easily, and the lids were extremely malleable. They were in the Goodwill pile in less than 6 months. That’s why I wanted to research the best cookware set under $200, so I could cook delicious foods in my price range.
After all, premium cookware can make or break your culinary experience, whether you are just a beginner or among the ranks of professional chefs. By the time you’ve finished reading this, you’ll find the perfect cookware for you at an affordable price.
Best Cookware Sets Under $200
Included with set:
- 8″ fry pan
- 10″ fry pan
- 1.5-qt. sauce pan with cover
- 2.5-qt. sauce pan with cover
- 3-qt. saute pan with cover
- 7-qt. dutch oven with cover
Features
- Stainless steel long handles stay cool on the stovetop
- Convenient measuring marks, pour spouts, and straining covers allow you to cook with efficiency
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup
- Oven-safe up to 450 degrees F
- Compatible with most stovetops, including induction, gas, electric, and glass
- Lifetime warranty
Here are the best cookware sets under $200. Keep in mind prices can change but the prices reflect their price at the time of writing.
Best Stainless Steel Cookware Under $200: Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Pots and Pans
What’s Included (bulleted)
- 8″ frying pan
- 10″ frying pan
- 1.5-qt. saucepan with cover
- 2.5-qt. saucepan with cover
- 3-qt. saute pan with cover
- 7-qt. dutch oven with cover
Pros
- Stainless Steel
- Compatible with most stovetops, including induction, gas, electric, and glass
- Long handles
- Dishwasher safe
- Measuring marks
- Thick pans
Cons
- Not non-stick
- It can get very hot very easily.
Cookware warranty: This cookware has a Lifetime Warranty.
Dishwasher safe: Yes, this cookware is dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: This set is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
This stainless steel set is an Amazon’s Choice product and gets a 4.6 of 5-star rating. This set is a staple in kitchens, whether the chef is a beginner or a pro. These pots are sleek and high quality at a very reasonable price compared to other stainless steel sets. Despite it being non-stick, it’s effortless to clean and use over and over again!
The handles stay cool while cooking, ensuring it’s safe to handle. It’s a great set that is both durable and tough. Read more about them in our Calphalon cookware review.
Circulon Elementum Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10 Piece Cookware Set
What’s Included
- 1-Quart Straining Saucepan with Lid and Pouring Spouts
- 2-Quart Straining Saucepan With Lid and Pouring Spouts
- 6-Quart Stockpot with Lid
- 3-Quart Sauté Pan with Lid
- 10-Inch Frying Pan
- 11.75-Inch Frying Pan
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Oven safe up to 400 degrees F
- Non-stick
- Very sleek looking
- Variety of sizes
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Pans seem a little thin
Cookware warranty: The manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service.
Dishwasher safe: No, these are not dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: Yes, up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204.444 degrees Celcius)!
Why are these pots and pans good?
It’s wonderful to see a kitchen set as highly rated as this. Its 4.8 out of 5-star rating is proof! To add to that it’s an Amazon’s Choice product. These pans are easy to clean, they work with all types of utensils (wood, plastic, even metal!), and are super easy to clean.
It’s a sleek design, and its lids are functional, retaining heat and straining the excess liquid, serving as a built-in colander! It’s a great cookware set for beginners who are not terribly confident in the kitchen yet who need variety as they learn how to maneuver their way in the kitchen. This is one of the best cookware sets under $200 you will find.
Read more about them in our Circulon cookware review.
Best Nonstick Cookware Set Under $200: T-fal Red Initiatives Nonstick Inside 18 Piece Cookware Set
What’s Included
- 3 quart Saucepan
- 1 quart; Saucepan with Lid
- 8 inches Frying Pan,
- 2 quart Saucepan with Lid
- 5-quart Stockpot
- Slotted Spoon
- Spoon
- 10 inches Skillet with Lid
- 4-quart Stockpot
- 11 inches Frying Pan
- Slotted Turner
Pros
- It comes in two different colors (black and red).
- A HUGE set with 18 pieces!
- Dishwasher safe
- Pouring spout for easy transfer
- Non-stick exterior
Cons
- Oven safe only up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
- The pots are not particularly large if you are cooking large quantities.
Cookware warranty: This cookware has a Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Dishwasher safe: Yes, this cookware set is dishwasher safe!
Oven-safe: This cookware set is only oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
Why are these pots and pans good?
This MASSIVE set comes with 18 pieces of not only cookware but utensils as well that are sure to fill out your kitchen needs at a low cost. These pans come in two different beautiful colors (if your going for a particular themed design) and go into the dishwasher, which allows quick, easy cleaning.
This is a great set for a beginner at-home chef who is hard on their pans and needs even heat distribution. With over 7000 reviews on Amazon and a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars (read the ratings here), this is a great set for a great price. It’s also an Amazon’s Choice product! It’s easily one of the best nonstick cookware sets under $200.
Read more about them in our T-FAL cookware review.
Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Porcelain Enamel Nonstick Cookware Set
What’s Included
- 1-quart saucepan with lid
- 3-quart saucepan with lid
- 3 quart saute pan with lid
- 6-quart stockpot with lid
- 8-inch skillet
- 10-inch skillet
- 10-inch cookie pan
- 15-inch cookie pan
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- 6-cup muffin pan
Pros
- Set includes BOTH cookware and bakeware
- Beautiful color
- Non-stick
- Easy to clean
- PFOA-Free
Cons
- Not suitable for induction stovetops
- Not dishwasher safe
Cookware warranty: This cookware has a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Dishwasher safe: No, this cookware is not dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: This set is oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
If pastel kitchen aesthetics are your jam, this set not only looks beautiful but is also extremely functional. It’s a huge set that can not only satisfy your inner chef but also your inner baker as well!
The rubber handles ensure that each pan is safe and easy to grasp. The cookware comes in various sizes and types, sure to be just what you need for whatever recipe you are trying out!
Read more about them in our Rachel Ray cookware review.
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 11-Piece Cookware Set
What’s Included
- 8-inch skillet
- 10-inch skillet
- 1.5 qt saucepan
- 2.5 qt saucepan
- 3 qt saute pan
- 8 qt stockpot
- steamer insert
Pros
- Oven safe at very high temperature
- Steamer insert
- Easy to clean
- Heavy
- Good variety
Cons
- No silicone or rubber handle
- Not suitable for induction stovetops
Cookware warranty: This cookware has a Limited Life-Time Warranty.
Dishwasher safe: No, you can’t use this cookware in the dishwasher.
Oven-safe: The pans are oven-safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The glass lids are oven-safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
This 4.7 out 5 stars rated cookware (1) set is heavy-duty, non-stick, and works great in any kitchen! They clean easily and work well if you are cooking at a high temperature. One thing to note is that these pans are HEAVY, ensuring great heat distribution and durability.
There is a lid for every pot, and they are extremely sturdy. It makes cooking a no-brainer!
Read more about them in our Cuisinart cookware review.
Blue Diamond Cookware Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set
What’s Included
- 7″ frying pan
- 9″ frying pans
- 2-quart saucepan with lid
- 2.5 quart sauté pan with lid
- 5-quart stockpot with lid
- 2 black nylon multipurpose cooking utensils
Pros
- Free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
- Dishwasher safe
- Easy to clean
- Bright, vibrant color
- Nonstick
Cons
- The frying pans are relatively small for the average kitchen need.
- The handle can get hot.
Cookware warranty: This cookware has a Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Dishwasher safe: Yes, this is dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: This cookware set is oven-safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
This simple, straightforward set will give you all of the essentials you need to master the art of cooking in your kitchen without the hefty price tag. Blue Diamond cookware is sleek, easy to clean (it’s dishwasher safe!!), and non-stick!
They are also wonderful because they are toxin-free, avoiding PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium! You can feel really good using these to cook up some love for your family without worry. With over 800 reviews and a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars (see the ratings here) it’s a great set to buy under $200.
Read more about them in our Blue Diamond cookware review.
NutriChef Stackable Pots and Pans Set – 14-pcs Luxurious Stackable Cookware Set
What’s Included
- 1.4-quart saucepan pot with lid
- 2.1-quart cooking pot with lid
- 4.6-quart stew pot with lid
- 3.2-quart jumbo cooker with lid
- 8-inch small fry pan
- 9.5-inch medium fry pan
- 11-inch griddle pan
- soup ladle
- pasta server
- Spatula
Pros
- Free of PTFE, PFOA, and PFOS
- It can be used on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops.
- Sleek design
Cons
- Larger frying pan not included
Cookware warranty: The manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service.
Dishwasher safe: Yes
Oven-safe: This set is oven-safe to 446 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
This beautiful, sleek cookware set not only looks good but cooks well too! Your food will not stick to the pans, and cleaning is a breeze! The handle stays cool while cooking, and the pan distributes the heat well.
Plus, this 4.7 out of 5 stars rated set is non-toxic, free of PTFE, PFOA, and PFOS, so you can cook in peace knowing it’s your food and your family is safe (read the ratings here).
Read more about them in our NUTRICHEF cookware review.
Farberware Go Healthy Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set with QuiltSmart Technology
What’s Included
- 1-quart saucepan
- 3-quart saucepot with lid steamer insert
- 8.5-inch frying pan
- 11.75-inch frying pan with lid
- 9.75-inch round grill pan
- slotted turner
- slotted spoon
- solid spoon
- pasta fork
- Whisk
- ladle
Pros
- Free of PFOA, PFA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium
- Non-stick
- Easy-grip handles
- Multiple color options
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not induction top suitable
- Lots of utensils, fewer pots
Cookware warranty: The manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service.
Dishwasher safe: Yes, these are dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: These are oven-safe to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
You can feel good about using this toxin-free, non-stick cookware set. This cookware set under $200 is built to last. It’s incredibly durable and easy to clean. This beautiful set comes in two different colors and includes a large selection of utensils that you can use with your new cookware!
It’s a great beginner set for those new to cooking with ceramic cookware. It’s lightweight but incredibly durable! With 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, it’s sure to be a staple in your kitchen for years to come.
Read more about them in our Farberware cookware review.
Gotham Steel Cookware + Bakeware Set with Ceramic Copper Coating
What’s Included
- 8.5 in. Skillet
- 10.25 in. frying pan with lid
- 9.5 in. shallow square frying pan,
- 1.5 qt. saucepan with lid
- 2.5 qt. saucepan with lid
- 5 qt. stockpot with lid
- steamer insert
- 9.5 in. deep square casserole pan with lid with fry basket
- Steaming rack
- round cake pan
- cookie sheet/jelly roll pan
- large 12 cup muffin pan
- large baking pan 9 in. x 13 in.
- 5 in. deep square pan
Pros
- Free of PFOA, PFOS, lead and cadmium
- Metal Utensil Safe
- Easy clean-up
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- The huge set may be overwhelming and difficult to store.
- Shorter handles
Cookware warranty: The manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service.
Dishwasher safe: Yes, these are dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: These are oven-safe up to 500 F.
Why are these pots and pans good?
This set is massive and borderline overwhelming! If you have an experimental recipe you want to try, this set probably has everything you need. It’s highly durable, non-stick, and dishwasher safe, allowing for easy cleaning.
Plus, the set comes in three fun, vibrant colors! With a 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, this set is a great starter set for first-time kitchenware owners or those looking to overhaul their cookware!
Read more about them in our Gotham Steel cookware review.
GreenPan Chatham Ceramic Non-Stick 10 Piece
What’s Included
- 1-quart saucepan with lid
- 2-quart saucepan with lid
- 5-quart casserole pan with lid
- 8″ frying pan
- 9″ frying pan
- 3QT skillet with lid
Pros
- Can withstand very high heat
- Dishwasher safe
- Metal Utensil Safe
- Free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
- Easy to clean
Cons
- A small selection of pans
- Not suitable for induction stovetops
Cookware warranty: This cookware has a 2-year warranty.
Dishwasher safe: Yes, these are dishwasher safe.
Oven-safe: The pans are oven safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. The glass lids oven safe up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why are these pots and pans good?
If you are looking for a toxin-free, budget-friendly cookware set option, Green Pan is a wonderful option! Green Pan ceramic cookware is easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and perfect for anyone who loves to cook!
This pan is durable and is great for transitioning dishes from the stovetop to the oven.
Read more about them in our Greenpan cookware review.
What should you look for when buying cookware for under $200?
When you are deciding which cookware set under $200 you should buy there are 5 main things to consider.
Materials Used
There is no one-size-fits-all pot or pan. Each pan has a different function and purpose.
Consider your cooking habits. Do you like making lots of soups? Look for a complete cookware set that includes a deep stockpot or dutch oven. Do you like making omelets for your family in the morning? Consider a set that includes a non-stick pan with a comfortable grip that will cook your eggs evenly. Do you do a lot of healthy cooking? Consider pans that have great heat conduction to quickly cook lean meats and vegetables so you can make a delicious meal.
Durability
Cookware is an investment. Finding cookware that lasts that does not totally break the bank is a challenge. As you shop, look at how thick the cooking surface of the pan is. Thin pans can cause heat spots that can cause problems as you cook and kill the lifespan of your pan.
Does the cookware you’re considering scratch easily? Is it easy to clean? Can it tolerate high temperatures?
Your pans’ ability to withstand basic kitchen wear and tear will determine whether your pan lasts.
Budget
Ah yes, the all too important question of how much are you willing to spend on your cookware. It’s no secret, the more you spend, the higher quality your pan will be. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t really great beginner sets that will fit within your budget and your needs.
Set a number and consider your options. Personally, I think any of the sets mentioned below are excellent and all under $200.
Handles
To safely handle your food, it’s essential to make sure that the handles of your pots and pans are secure and remain cool while you are cooking. Loose knobs on your cookware handles are not only annoying. It can also be dangerous for you as you transfer your food to another pan or a plate.
Find a good set with well-made handles to eliminate the headache.
Number of pieces
How much space do you have in your cabinets to store your pots and pans? It would be imprudent to get a huge set of cookware if you only have space for a handful of pans. Overstacking can cause scratches and damage to your pans! Consider the space you have available and find a set that will store comfortably in your cabinetry.
Bottom Line: Which Cookware Under $200 Should You Buy?
At the end of the day, which is the best cookware set under $200? Which one should you buy? While all of these options are a million times better than the set I bought when I moved into my first apartment, there is one that stands out: the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Pots and Pans.
It is a gorgeous set of cookware, and the reviews really speak for themselves. I consider this set household essentials. The set offers a nice variety of sizes and types of cookware and is free of toxins, so I can feel good about using it in my kitchen as I cook for my loved ones! Did I mention that I love how they look?
It also works on all stovetops (including induction), so I never have to question whether I am ruining my pans if I accidentally turn the heat up a little too much. Plus, I love that the handle stays cool to the touch and will not melt in the oven. It’s a great set that I can’t wait to use in my kitchen every day!
✅ After going through all of the best sets this is the cookware set that we would buy based on all of its qualities.
This article is by Hannah Crites.
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