My Set of Pots and Pans

Like I have mentioned in a previous post, I do not believe in buying sets of cookware. I know you save a little bit of money but you get pieces you do not need.  Also, different manufactures produce a better product than others.

Here are the list of cookware I feel are the essentials but it differs for ever person. Prices are just off of the internet.  Look for promo codes or coupons.  The Brands are premium but will last forever. You can substitute different, less expensive pans, just make sure they are similarly constructed and have similar features.

Sauce Pan- 2qt
One of the everyday pans you will use, great for veggies and sauces.

I recommend an All-Clad 2qt Try-ply sauce pan. $99.99

Stock Pot- 8qt
This pot is good for soups, boiling pasta or potatoes, or cooking for a crowed

I recommend the All-Clad 8qt Try-ply stock pot.  $319.99

Skillet- 10" or 12" stainless 
You need a stainless steel skillet to allow meat to sear and truly brown.  This does not happen well in nonstick pans.  Also, the browning leaves behind little bits called "Fond".  This is great for pan sauces.

I recommend the All-Clad Try-ply 12" Skillet $154.99


Non-Stick Skillet- 8" and 10"
Non-stick skillets are great for eggs, or delicate things like some fish. Not a lot of oil is required so meals are a little healthier.

I recommend All-Clad Non-Stick (8" $109.00 and 10" $135) or The Zwilling  Try-ply Ceramic (8" $49.95 and 10" $79.95) if you do not want Teflon.  Also, Swiss Diamond is highly rated, but I do not have any experience with them

Saute Pan- 3, 4, or 5qt
A Saute pan is great for all kinds of things.  With the lid it makes it great for dishes like chicken and rice or hamburger helper lol.  This is one of the pans I use quite regularly.  I would not put it top on the list though.

I recomend the All-Clad 3 ($99.99) or 5qt Try-Ply Saute Pan or the Mauviel M'heritage 250C 3.2qt Saute Pan ($549.95)

Dutch Oven- 5 or 7qt
This is one of those pans you will fall in love with.  Even cooking, that is slow. Great for pot roast or short ribs.  Start dishes on the stove and then move them to the oven.  Great for one pot recipes. Cleans up super easy.

I recommend the Le Creuset 7 3/4qt Dutch Oven.  $330.00

Cast Iron Skillet- 10"

Large, deep skillet that is great for the stove or oven.  Great for frying chicken or baking biscuits. Follow directions on cleaning and seasoning.  Never use soap when cleaning.  

I recommend the Le Creuset 12" Extra Deep Enameled Cast Iron Skillet (200.00)  Williams Sonoma exclusive product. 

A safe estimate of my exlcusive cookware would be $1500.  But, you can buy the pieces over time, wait for sales.