Anolon Coupons September 2023

Cookware News: Best Hard Anodized Cookware Sets

Cooks and chefs are turning to the hard anodized pots and pans because of their durability, non-stick qualities, and easiness of cleaning. Such a set will take some initial investment, but it will pay off in the long run. There is really a reason why hard anodized cookware is popular amongst home cooks and chefs alike.

So what exactly is hard anodized surface? This is the way a soft aluminum is hardened electrochemically until it becomes twice as hard as stainless steel and forms an oxidized top layer that does not stick, scratch or react with food. This kind of cookware is easy to clean, non-toxic, and can be used with virtually no oil. The cookware is extremely heat-resistant, so pans can go in the oven. The surface is long-lasting and won’t scratch or chip.

Every cook has different needs, but most of us want a few pots and pans in the kitchen. Individual pieces are more expensive than sets, so consider shopping for them. We looked at a few different hard anodized cookware sets and picked the best 10-12 piece collections that would work for couples and small families.

When you are looking for a boxed set, keep in mind that lids and sometimes even utensils are considered separate pieces, so 11 pieces don’t mean 11 pots.

There are plenty of choices on the market that can fit any budget, but selecting the best ones can be tricky. We have done some serious research and testing to pick 5 best sets for a wide range of usage. All the sets we looked at are PFOA-free. We also used silicone utensils for testing, even though some manufacturers say that metal ones are fine.

1. Circulon Symmetry Hard Anodized 11-Piece Cookware Set – Bed, Bath & Beyond $299.99

This set took the first place because it looks great, is sophisticated, sports great performance, and is easy to clean. This is simply a good and versatile buy. You can grill a filet mignon or creamy mushroom spinach soup with the same ease.

The set includes:

• 1-quart pouring saucepan
• 2-quart covered saucepan
• 3-quart covered saucepan
• 8-quart covered stockpot
• 8.5-inch French skillet
• 10-inch French skillet
• 3-quart covered saute pan

You will also enjoy the elegant design and heavy-duty construction. All pieces can go to the oven up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The bottom of each piece is constructed from warp-resistant bonded stainless steel and can be used on all stovetops. Home Epiphany and Think Cook rate this set as the best on the market.

All the pieces can be cleaned in the dishwasher or by hand, whichever you prefer. The handles are made of rubberized cast stainless steel and are very comfortable. The lids are vented and tight, so all your flavors and vitamins stay inside while cooking.

You can find this set on Amazon, where it’s rated 4.5 stars out of 5. Owners rave about the high performance, which justifies the price. A few users experienced the non-stick coat peeling after a few months.

The best features of this set: it’s oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, warp-resistant, induction compatible, metal-safe, and has cool handles.

The biggest problem: it’s expensive.

2. Anolon Advanced Hard Anodized Nonstick 11-Piece Cookware Set – Amazon $280.31

You will like this Anolon set because of sophisticated style, even heat capability, and long-lasting nonstick surface. And you won’t break the bank with it too.

The Anolon set includes:

• 1.5 quart covered saucepan
• 3-quart covered saucepan
• 8-quart covered stockpot
• 8.5-inch French skillet
• 12-inch covered deep skillet
• 3-quart covered saute pan

The Anolon Advanced set was designed with time in mind – it will last for years. The tri-ply DuPont Autograph 2 surface is definitely nonstick and very easily washable by hand.

The handles are made of silicone and never get hot. Dome-shaped lids don’t have vents, but make checking on cooking progress super easy. The pieces are solid and not too heavy.

The major downside we have found is that the Anolon set is not dish-washer safe. It is, however, very easy to clean by hand, so the issue is really minor. Users also attest that metal utensils made scratches, despite manufacturer claims that metal is safe.

Best features: oven-safe, cool handles, easy to wash by hand.

Cons: not dishwasher safe and not for induction stovetops.

3. All-Clad E785SC64 HA1 Hard Anodized 10-Piece Cookware Set – Amazon $470.99

This set is a high end, like a Ferrari of cooking. It constantly gets great reviews for its style, performance, and durability. The brand is expensive, but gets awesome reviews from users and experts. We can testify that it’s really worth the investment.

The set includes:

• 8-inch fry pan
• 10-inch fry pan
• 2-quart covered sauce pan
• 3-quart covered sauce pan
• 4-quart covered saute pan
• 8-quart covered stockpot

Your foods won’t stick and you will be able to choose between dishwasher and hand-washing. The set has 80% 5-star reviews on Amazon. The All-Clad cookware will ensure that your food tastes good and your kitchen is stylish with these pots on the stovetop.

All the pieces are oven-safe up to 500 degrees, but without lids. Bonded steel base is warp-resistant and scratch-resistant. It is safe for induction stoves and dishwashers. Some people complain about hot handles.

4. Rachel Ray Hard Anodized II 10-Piece Cookware Set – Amazon $1199

This set is low priced and great for any starting cook or your first independent kitchen. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and looks great. This is why this set is one of the most popular.

The set includes:

• 1-quart covered sauce pan
• 2-quart covered sauce pan
• 6-quart covered stockpot
• 3-quart covered saute pan
• 8.5-inch skillet
• 10-inch skillet

The set features Eclipse interior and is dishwasher-safe. The pots are black with orange handles and go great with contemporary kitchens. The handles are made of silicone and are stay-cool.

Some users were disappointed that the pots and pans are a bit small and not as high quality as some other sets. However, the set is rated 4 and 4.5 stars on Amazon and by Good Housekeeping Institute.

Best features: great price, dishwasher safe, oven safe up to 350 degrees, sleek design.

Cons: small, lightweight, not suitable for induction stovetops.

5. T-fal E765SC Ultimate 12-Piece Cookware Set – Amazon $90.99

This set offers great value on a budget. It includes many popular size pieces in grey color. The pots and pans are very durable and made of titanium non-stick material that doesn’t scratch. This is great for metal utensils.

Once the hard and messy cooking is done, just stick everything in the dishwasher. The pans feature Thermo-Spot heat indicator in the center, which turns red when the cookware is heating to the best cooking temperature. Great results are guaranteed.

The pots are warp-resistant and offer even heat distribution, but some reviewers complain about uneven surface and malfunctioning heat indicator.

All the pieces can go to the oven up to 400 degrees (350 for lids). Handles are made from silicone and stay cool. They also have holes at the end for hanging. The lids are tempered glass and have vents.

The sets gets 4.5 stars from Amazon users.