When I first moved out on my own, I cooked with whatever pots and pans were handed down to me from friends and family. Later, when Sean and I were married, we had a shiny new box set of pots and pans that we bought for less than $50 total.
When I tell you that those pans were lightweight? That doesn’t even really describe it. Foods would burn so easily! Those nonstick pans were a mess. I chalked it up to my lousy cooking skills, but I’ve since learned that quality pots and pans actually make a difference.
Over time, I’ve learned to be a little more careful about the quality of the pots and pans. I’ve also learned to use them well. So, I don’t buy or recommend huge sets of matching pots and pans. There are too many sizes that we don’t need.
There are really only a handful of pots and pans that I consider essential in the kitchen. I now own a couple of skillets, a sauce pan, and a Dutch oven that are my go-to for cooking. I’ve been using them daily for the last 5-10 years, and they are still going strong.
I use this heavy duty Misen 12″ steel frying pan nearly every day. This thing is a total champ, no matter what I’m cooking. It heats evenly and works for induction, gas, or electric stovetops. And it is oven and broiler safe to 800°F.
This All-Clad hard anodized 12″ frying pan is HANDS DOWN the best nonstick pan I have ever used. I’ve owned the trendy and viral brand names. They aren’t worth it. Get this one instead. It works for induction, gas, or electric stovetops, and it is oven and broiler safe to 500°F.
Oh my gosh, do I love my sauce pan. This All-Clad steel 3 qt sauce pan is my go-to for the endless sauces, pastas, oatmeals, and more that I make every day. It works for induction, gas, or electric stovetops. And, it is oven and broiler safe to 600°F.
This one is a classic for a reason. My Lodge enameled cast iron Dutch oven is an absolute work horse. Endlessly versatile for work on the stovetop or in the oven at temperatures up to 500°F. You can also get them in huge range of colors to better suit your aesthetic.
For a peek into the rest of my kitchen, check out my favorite Kitchen Essentials, Kitchen Extras, and Kitchen Splurges for everything from the big ticket item to the last little thing to round out your gifts!
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