If you don’t have time to read the entire article, I’ll let you in on a little secret, the winner is the Ninja C39900 Foodi 16-piece set. A well-thought-out set and a great value.
If I were shopping for the perfect cookware set, it would need to be very durable, non-stick for easy cooking and cleanup, non-toxic, and perform well enough to produce beautiful, flawless dishes. All for a reasonable price. Wouldn’t you agree? If the answer is yes, the best hard anodized cookware is your solution. Are they perfect, no. Some cookware sets are better than others, and with hundreds of such options in the market, it can be overwhelming. I’ve chosen 7 of the best hard anodized cookware sets for my review. Let’s see if we can find one that works for you.
I have been using and testing all types of cookware for years. Not just for my readers, but also for use at home. This is why I continuously test different options in the marketplace, always looking for great performance and great value. This was when I discovered the power of hard-anodized aluminum cookware.
These cookware sets offer a non-reactive and non-toxic cooking experience at your disposal. You will not have to spend an entire fortune on these items. These are affordable and healthier options for everyone.
My favorite set is the Ninja C39900 Foodi 16-piece set. It has one of the more durable non-stick coatings and with 16 pieces, there’s a tool for every situation.
This cookware set is also oven safe to 500°F, dishwasher safe, and freezer safe. Moreover, you can use it with a variety of cooktops and stovetops without any issues. Loads of features and stellar user reviews make it a great choice for most kitchens.
If you want to find out more about the best options in the market, keep reading below. Here are the pans I’ll be reviewing:
- Ninja C39900 Foodi 16 Piece Set
- Rachael Ray Cucina 12 Piece Set
- T-Fal Ultimate 17 Piece Set
- Calphalon Signature 10 Piece Cookware Set
- Cuisinart Contour 13 Piece Cookware Set
- Granitestone PRO Premium Chef 13 Piece Cookware Set
- Circulon Premier Professional 13 Piece Cookware Set
What Are the Best Hard Anodized Cookware Options On The Market?
Let’s take a look at 7 of my favorite cookware sets and see if we can find the one that belongs in your kitchen. Warning: Some of the claims are coming straight from the manufacturer. Please read the What Features Are Important? section for more detail.
Best Overall: Ninja C39900 Foodi 16 Piece Set
The Ninja C39900 is my choice as the best overall option. It checks almost every box that a home chef would need. The Ninja brand is relatively new in the cookware world and is better known for its small appliances. However, they have certainly proven themselves to be a serious contender with this product line.
Highlight Features
One of the most interesting elements of this cookware is its patented NeverStick technology surface. This coating offers durable non-stick performance and prevents the aluminum from leaching into the food when cooking with acidic ingredients like tomato sauce, as can happen with some aluminum cookware.
In addition, all the pieces are oven safe up to 500°F, even the lids! This allows you to brown your dishes by popping them under the broiler. The solid stainless steel handles are ergonomically designed to reduce wrist strain.
The manufacturer has also paid special attention to the strength and durability of the materials and construction by designing all the lids and handles with double-rivets and a coating that can withstand metal utensils and is dishwasher safe. The hard-anodized exterior is also scratch-resistant. Moreover, the lids are 13 mm thick tempered glass.
You can also enjoy optimum heat distribution with the help of a heavy-gauge 4.5mm aluminum base. And with a built-in stainless-steel induction plate, this cookware set is ready for any type of stovetop, including induction.
What’s Included
- 8 in fry pan
- 10 ¼ in fry pan
- 12 in fry pan w/ lid
- 1 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 2 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saute pan w/ lid
- 4 qt stockpot w/ lid
- 8 qt stockpot w/ lid
Pros
- Exclusive NeverStick non-stick coating for durability
- Tempered glass lids to lock in moisture
- Attractive slate grey design
- Even heat distribution to prevent hot spots
- Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
- Oven safe up to 500°F
- Dishwasher safe
- Metal-utensil safe
- PFOA free
Cons
- Pricier than some of the competition
- Pre-heating at high temperatures will cause problems
- Like all non-stick coatings, performance will degrade over time.
Best Value: Rachael Ray Cucina 12 Piece Set
The Rachael Ray Cucina set is another popular favorite. This is a great starter set for those on a budget. It’s a smaller set than the others with fewer features, but at such a bargain price it’s hard to resist.
Highlight Features
This attractive set has all the basics covered. Durable hard-anodized aluminum construction with PFOA-free non-stick coating provides even heating and easy cleanup. Although advertised as a 12 piece set, 2 of those pieces are utensils so it’s really a bit smaller, but maybe fine for most applications.
This set is relatively lightweight. For some, this is a drawback and is not heavy-duty enough, however, some will find it a plus because it’s easy to handle and minimizes any wrist strain.
A nice feature is the stainless steel, silicon covered handles which are comfortable and stay cool to the touch. Unfortunately, the trade-off is that they are oven safe to only 400°F. Includes shatter-proof glass lids.
What’s Included
- 8 ½ in fry pan
- 10 in fry pan
- 1 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 2 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saute pan w/ lid
- 6 qt stockpot w/ lid
- 2 utensils
Pros
- Great price
- Oven safe up to 400°F
- Dishwasher safe
- Shatter-resistant glass lids
- Ergonomic silicone handles
- PFOA-free materials
- Available in 3 attractive colors
Cons
- Heavy handles can tip over the pots
- Scratches easily
- Lightweight construction
- Pots and pans are on the smaller side
Best Versatility: T-Fal Ultimate 17 Piece Set
If you’re looking for a cookware set that can handle any job, the T-fal Ultimate Cookware set might just be it. With 17 pieces, it could be your one and only purchase for a complete cookware solution.
Highlight Features
One unique feature with T-Fal products is their Thermo Spot indicators which turn red to indicate when the pans are fully preheated and ready for use. This helps eliminate constant trial and error.
The set comes with riveted handles and vented lids. The riveted, silicone-covered handles are ergonomically designed to offer maximum comfort and safety but limit oven use to 400°F. While the vented, tempered glass lids eliminate having to continuously lift the lids to see how your dish is coming along. You can enjoy maximum visibility while retaining a high amount of heat and moisture.
This set performs well on any type of stovetop but isn’t compatible with induction ranges. They are also dishwasher safe and free from any lead, PFOA, cadmium, or other harmful chemicals.
What’s Included
- 8 in fry pan
- 10 ¼ in fry pan
- 11 ½ in fry pan w/ lid
- 10 ¼ in square griddle
- 1 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 2 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 ½ qt saute pan w/ lid
- 5 qt dutch oven w/ lid
- 3 qt steamer insert w/ side handles
- 1 egg wonder fry pan
Pros
- Large variety of pieces
- Thermo-Spot technology
- PFOA. lead, and cadmium free
- Dishwasher safe
- Riveted silicone handles
- Titanium reinforced non-stick coating
Cons
- Pans Do Not Sit Flat
- Not suitable for induction stovetops
- Exterior scratches easily
Calphalon Signature 10 Piece Cookware Set
This cookware is Calphalon’s top of the line set. The Signature non-stick coating is designed to last longer than other products on the market. With a triple layer coating, this set is a notch above their less expensive Calphalon Classic line. More expensive than some other offerings but the durability and a reputable brand name don’t come cheap.
Highlight Features
The entire set is made from heavy-gauge 3.6 mm thick aluminum that promises long-lasting durability and great heat distribution. The handles are made from brushed stainless steel and are designed to stay cool while cooking on the stove. Because Calphalon has opted not to coat the handles with silicone, they are oven safe to 500°F. The tempered glass covers are oven safe to 450°F.
Their exclusive 3 layer, non-stick coating is PFOA-free, and can withstand the use of metal utensils, and is dishwasher safe.
Calphalon has a reputation for manufacturing high-quality products and is priced accordingly. If properly cared for, their cookware should last for years.
What’s Included
- 10 in omelette pan
- 12 in omelette pan
- 2 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saute pan w/ lid
- 8 qt stockpot w/ lid
Pros
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Oven safe up to 500°F (lids to 450°F)
- Metal-utensil safe
- Dishwasher safe
- Stainless steel handles stay cool
- PFOA free
- 3-Layer Non-Stick Interior Coating
Cons
- Not suitable for induction ranges
- Expensive
Cuisinart Contour 13 Piece Cookware Set
Cuisinart has always been a well-respected name when it comes to cookware and small kitchen appliances. The Cuisinart Contour cookware set is a nice solid choice at a surprisingly affordable price.
Highlight Features
Triple-ply hard-anodized construction prevents hot spots and allows even cooking. The long, contoured handles provide a comfortable grip and stay cool on the stove.
With a 500°F oven rating, they can go from stove to oven to freezer (after cooling off, of course) for the ultimate flexibility.
Tempered glass lids keep moisture and splatter where they belong, in the pot. Tapered rims allow for drip-free pouring, minimizing clean-up chores.
This set is perfect for halogen, gas, electric, or glass-ceramic cooktops. However, they are not compatible with induction ranges.
Unfortunately, the manufacturer makes no claims of this cookware being dishwasher safe, safe to use with metal utensils, or whether they are PFOA-free, so I’ll have to assume the worst.
What’s Included
- 8 in skillet
- 10 in skillet
- 1 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 2 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saute pan w/ lid
- 4 qt dutch oven w/ lid
- 8 qt stockpot w/ lid
- Steamer insert
Pros
- Low price
- Oven safe to 500°F (lids to 350°F)
- Freezer safe
- Drip-free, tapered rims
- Stay-cool handles
Cons
- Poorly designed lids
- Not PFOA free
- Not dishwasher safe
- Non-stick coating doesn’t last
Granitestone PRO Premium Chef 13 Piece Cookware Set
If you’ve ever had trouble sleeping and popped on the TV in the middle of the night, I’m sure you’re familiar with the Granitestone commercials. Smashing rocks in their frying pan with a hammer and later eggs still slide right out. Too good to be true? Let’s find out.
Highlight Features
As are the other sets in this article, Granitestone cookware is constructed with hard-anodized aluminum which is durable and has great heat retention and distribution. This allows your food to cook evenly and eliminates hot spots. They feel a bit lightweight. This can be a plus or minus depending on your expectations but generally doesn’t feel substantial.
Each piece has a triple coated, non-stick, ceramic coating which is reinforced with titanium for extra durability and easy cleanup. It’s also PFOA, PFOS, cadmium, and lead-free, and can withstand the use of metal utensils and the dishwasher.
Both the pots/pans and tempered glass lids are oven safe to 500°F. The lids seal well to provide maximum heat retention and seal in flavors and nutrients.
The Granitestone PRO cookware set is a nice, middle of the road contender. Does it live up to the hype? No. But, what product could?
What’s Included
- 8 in skillet
- 10 in fry pan
- 12 ½ in fry pan
- 3 qt chef’s pan w/ lid
- 1 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 2 ½ qt saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt saute pan w/ lid
- 6 qt stockpot w/ lid
Pros
- Easy to Clean
- Durable Coating
- PFOA, PFOS, cadmium, and lead-free
- Can be used with metal utensils
- Dishwasher safe
- Oven safe to 500°F
Cons
- Handles Don’t Stay Cool Throughout the Length
- Lightweight construction
- Not suitable with induction cooktops
Circulon Premier Professional 13 Piece Cookware Set
Circulon Premier Professional cookware set has a few nice features that set it apart from the other lines we’ve discussed. Although it didn’t take the top spot, I found it to be a beautiful, high-quality option.
Highlight Features
The most obvious feature of the Circulon Premier is the beautiful bronze color. Most hard anodized cookware these days are some shade of grey (which is nice as well). I personally found it attractive and different. Of course, looks are subjective, so the only opinion that matters is yours.
A nice feature unique to this set is the saucepans all have actual pour spouts. Couple this with the shatter-resistant glass lids with built-in strainers and they provide a convenient, no-mess operation.
Each piece has Circulon’s unique TOTAL Food Release System which combines a PFOA-free non-stick surface with raised circles in the bottom, inside surface. At first, I thought this would cause trouble but I was happily proved wrong.
The construction is solid with thick heavy bottoms and dual riveted, stainless steel handles coated with silicone. Suitable with all cooktops, including induction, and oven safe to 400°F. Dishwasher safe.
What’s Included
- 8 ½ in french skillet
- 10 in french skillet
- 12 in french skillet
- 1 qt straining saucepan w/ lid
- 2 qt straining saucepan w/ lid
- 3 qt straining saucepan w/ lid
- 5 qt saute pan w/ lid
- 8 qt stockpot w/ lid
Pros
- Silicone coated handles stay cool
- PFOA-free
- Quality construction
- Dishwasher Safe
- Induction Ready
- Built-in pour spouts
Cons
- Oven use limited to 400°F
- Takes Time to Heat Up
What Features Are Important?
To be honest, there are so many similarities to all of the cookware sets I’m discussing in this article, it can get confusing. However, there are differences in price, features, quality, and number of pieces that will affect which choice is right for you. Let’s take a look.
Non-stick Coatings: A Warning
After reading the product reviews above, you probably noticed some of the manufacturers like to claim that their non-stick cookware can be used with metal utensils and is dishwasher safe. I’ve concluded after speaking with both professional chefs and home cooks, reading hundreds of online reviews as well as my own personal experience, that the performance of these non-stick coatings will degrade over time. Using metal utensils and throwing them in the dishwasher is only going to speed up their demise.
These pots and pans need to be coddled in order for them to last. Stick to hand washing with a soft scrubber and use wood or silicone utensils.
Another concern many buyers have is whether non-stick surfaces introduce toxic substances into the food. This was definitely justified with the earlier generations of coatings such as Teflon (PTFE). Today’s coatings have gotten much safer but if this is a major concern for you, I recommend you read this article for a thorough overview. Also, you should check out our review of the Best Non-Toxic Cookware for Health.
Number of Pieces
As you probably noticed, each of the manufacturers has taken a different approach to what to include in each set. As a buyer, your challenge is to decide what your personal needs are. How much do you want to spend? How much storage space is available. Are you starting from scratch or do you already have a few pieces? Do you need a stockpot and a dutch oven, or is that redundant?
Misc Features
Silicone coated handles are a nice detail but will limit using the cookware in the oven to 400°F. If you frequently prepare oven recipes above this temperature, I would stay away from sets with this feature.
If you’re lucky enough to have an induction cooktop, you should focus your choice between the Ninja or the Circulon cookware sets since the others are not compatible.
My Favorite
All of these cookware sets deserve a place in your kitchen, however, my choice for Best Overall Set is the Ninja C39900 Foodi 16 Piece Set. A great selection of pieces, quality construction, and a well-thought out choice of features make this one a winner.
Check out the Ninja set here.
