Made In designs premium pans, stock pots, knives, cookbooks, and other kitchenware for all levels of chefs. Made from quality stainless steel and carbon steel, the line is engineered for durability and high performance to provide consistency no matter what you’re whipping up.
The brand has built up quite a reputation the kitchen realm, having been endorsed by prominent media outlets like Forbes and Business Insider. It’s popular with the masses too, with a social community of almost 150k.
Since you’ve wandered onto this Made In cookware review, you’re probably wondering if the brand lives up to the hype surrounding it, like I was. In the sections ahead, I seek to answer that by checking out its best-sellers, feedback, promotions, and more. Let’s turn up the heat and get to it.
Best Value: All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware Set
All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware Set
Number of Pieces: 5, 7, 10, or 14 Piece Sets Available
Colors Available: Stainless Steel Color/Silver
Origin: Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information
All-Clad Metalcrafters is a well-known American brand located in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania and although they do order a few odds and ends from China, such as some of the handles and handle loops, the actual pans themselves are American made.
All-Clad products can be found in any store that sells reputable cookware in a myriad of countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, Germany, and the UK, making this American cookware brand notorious across the globe.
This company was founded by a specialty metallurgist named John Ulam in 1967 who already had immense experience working with bonded metals as he worked for the US Mint in coinage. All-Clad actually didn’t start out making cookware, but soon shifted into their notorious bonded cookware lineups after Ulam was frustrated with low-quality pans and decided to use his knowledge of bonded metal he was working with doing coinage to craft his own pan.
In 1971, All-Clad was ready to sell high-quality patented “Roll Bonded” American made pans. In 1988, All-Clad was acquired by Pittsburgh Annealing Box Co and in 2004 the company was then acquired by Groupe SEB, a French conglomerate with an appreciation for American manufacturing. All-Clad purchases a large number of its metals from the Pennsylvania Steel Company.
Our Thoughts
First and foremost All-clad has a number of cookware sets. The D3 set reviewed here is cheaper than the other All-Clad offerings including the D3 and Copper Core sets we will be reviewing below. That said, the All-Clad D3 collection is more than enough for some casual cooking and kitchen magic. Using the same roll bonding techniques that each pan from the brand has, the D3 set encompasses Type 304 stainless that is ISO 9000 approved along with a very robust and reliable nonstick coating.
Of course, the D5 utilizes a 5-ply system while the D3 uses a 3-ply system, hence the significant difference in both weight and price between the two. The D3 set is still considered by many to be of high-quality cookware, ensuring a well-balanced heating surface and a thick aluminum core that heats up fast and evenly.
Overall, the D3 is extremely impressive, especially for a first-time buyer of a quality set of pans. If you’ve never used a quality pan, the D3 set will blow your mind, as it does the many other lovers of the product, as it’s one of the most popular high-quality sets that’s within the price range that most consumers are willing to spend on cookware.
Who We Recommend It For
It’s no secret that All-Clad American made cookware is going to cost you a lot more than the budget pans you’d find at a typical big-box retailer, but it’ll also last a lot longer as these are extremely durable and well made. The fact is, the price is likely going to be the biggest issue for most people. If you’re someone who doesn’t cook often and perhaps moves around often, then it’d be tough to justify the price of an All-Clad cookware set, even if it is the cheaper D3 set.
If you’re someone who cooks a lot and really loves crafting in the kitchen, these pans are well worth the investment, as they’ll last an insanely long time, is super easy to both clean and maintain, and are just overall a blast to use. They are easily and notably better at both retaining and distributing heat than cheaper lower quality pans and you’ll notice that right away, which will help both cook faster and better.
All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set
All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set
Number of Pieces: 10
Colors Available: Silver
Origin: Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Our Thoughts
This 10-piece cookware has everything you need to get your kitchen groove on. An expertly crafted with alternate layers of stainless steel and aluminum in a heavier, 5-ply bonded construction gives it an edge in durability over the 3-ply D3.
You get two skillets with lids, 8 and 10-inch, for all of your frying, scrambling, searing, or sautéing needs. Plus, 1.5 and 3-quart saucepans complete with lids, an additional 3-quart saucepan for cooking small portions of pasta, veggies, or reducing sauces. The deep 5.5 quarts Dutch Oven has rounded sides and comes with its own cover. It’s my weapon of choice for making stews and pot roasts. It is large, versatile, and cooks evenly without any hot spots. Not just the Dutch oven, all D5 pots, and pans are sturdily built and come fitted with riveted handles that are comfortable to touch and hold even when the pot is boiling hot.
The flared rims allow for easy pour and don’t let the contents spill over even when you’re stirring furiously. The D5’s unique stainless-aluminum bonded build enables it to withstand the highest oven heat setting of 600 degrees! Pop it in the oven, or the broiler, or atop induction or gas stove, and get cooking!
Who We Recommend It For
Pick any cookware out of All-Clad’s vault, one thing you can be absolutely sure of is that it’ll outlast most other items in your kitchen. It’s true, the price might not fit everyone’s budget, but the set’s unmatched quality is every bit worth the splurge. Besides gracing your kitchen, this good-looking, high-end cookware set will also make an excellent pick for a wedding registry. Overall, we think All-Clad easily makes some of the best stainless steel cookware made in USA and we highly recommend their products.
Premium Pick: All-Clad Copper Core Cookware Set
All-Clad 60090 Copper Core 5-Ply Bonded Dishwasher Safe Cookware Set, 14-Piece
Number of Pieces: 14
Colors Available: Silver and copper
Origin: Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Our Thoughts
We’ve talked about two of All-Clad’s most popular cookware sets- the D3 and the D5, both of which are cladded with layers of aluminum and stainless steel with an aluminum core. However, with this premium cookware set, All-Clad has managed to push the envelope even further in quality and durability. Let’s start with the build which is made from a copper core and four layers of aluminum and stainless steel to offer you superior heat distribution and longevity.
This set has 14 pieces, although it’s available in 7-piece and 10-piece variants as well. You get two 10 and 12-inch frying pans, 2 and 3-quart lidded saucepans, a large 12-inch chef’s pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stockpot. All pieces boast an ultra-luxe mirror-polished stainless steel cooking surface with a lovely copper ring circling the base. The handles here are pretty similar to the brand’s other stainless steel cookware- easy to grip, long, riveted, and designed to stay cool. Finally, this high-end cookware’s all-heat sources compatibility means you can go from stovetop to oven without any hassles or transfers.
Who We Recommend It For
Each cookware made by All-Clad passes through 20 hands before it makes its way to your home. Nowadays, you might come across several brands that mimic All-Clad’s bonded design. However, only a handful even manage to come closer to this brand’s construction and quality standards.
In my opinion, this cookware is best suited for someone who’s a complete pro in the kitchen, whether home or in a commercial setup. I say this because the copper core heats up faster than most others making it one of the most responsive cores. A certain level of skill, expertise, and close monitoring is recommended when cooking with a copper core.
Viking 5-Ply 10 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Viking Professional 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Number of Pieces: 10
Colors Available: Silver
Origin: Carson, California, USA
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information
If there’s one brand that can take on All-Clad’s range of high-end cookware in the market, it’s Viking Culinary. Both brands boast similar high-quality layered construction of stainless steel and aluminum with cool-to-touch handles and oven-safe designs up to 600 degrees.
When it comes to prices, Viking Culinary casts a wider net. Their range is certainly not cheap, nor is it as expensive as All-Clad’s. One of the reasons why the brand has been able to keep the costs relatively low could be attributed to a chunk of its manufacturing happening overseas. That said, it’s good to know the brands still handcraft their iconic 5-ply stainless Professional line in the USA.
Our Thoughts
Since Viking’s 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set is their only American-made product line, then that’s the one we’ll be talking about here. This cookware range is multi-clad with a highly durable, induction-compatible stainless steel exterior and a core made with layers of quick-to-heat pure aluminum alloy and 3004 pure aluminum. An 18/10 stainless steel cooking interior can take on scorching high temperatures, distributing the heat across the surface for more homogenous cooking.
There are ten stainless steel pots and pans in this set, with the largest one being an 8-quart stockpot with a lid, which is perfect for cooking sauce and stock for a large party. You also get two fry pans measuring 8-inch and 10-inch each, two lidded saucepans, and a 3.4 quart sauté pan with a lid. This set has a minimalist design with riveted signature Stay-Cool handles that put you in the driver’s seat while maneuvering and moving the pots around. Plus, all the pots and pans sport a lovely satin finish that keeps them looking brand new wash after wash.
Who We Recommend It For
If you’re looking for a relatively economical set similar in build and functionality to All-Clad, do give this cookware range a shot. Its high-performance 5-ply construction is induction stovetop friendly, heats the food super quick with minimal use of energy.
Granted, Vikings Culinary doesn’t make many of their products here, but everything they make here is of premium grade and stellar quality that’s sure to last you a lifetime.
Heritage Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set
Heritage Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set
Number of Pieces: 10
Colors Available: Silver
Origin: Clarksville, Tennessee, USA
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information
For the last 40 years, Heritage Steel has been setting the bar high with its time-tested quality and expert craftsmanship. Unlike its close competitors, every piece by Heritage steel is made with passion and perfection at their Clarksville factory in Tennessee.
As a family-owned business, Heritage Steel runs a tight ship, keeping a close check on the quality of material, design, and utility. There’s no doubt this company respects crafts and experience as most of their employees have been with them for over two decades.
Our Thoughts
Heritage steel’s four-decade-long experience and skill can be sampled in this 10-piece cookware. In terms of durability, it gets a big thumbs up from me. It’s not just any 5-ply construction but a mighty strong one. The set’s exterior layer is a corrosion-resistant 439 titanium strengthened stainless steel compatible with all cooktops, including induction. A 3-ply aluminum core with alternating layers of 1145 pure aluminum and 3004 aluminum is a fantastic configuration for efficient cooking.
All pots and pans have a cooking surface made from titanium strengthened 316Ti steel alloy. Manufacturers often pick this material for making their cookware robust, rust-free, and abrasion-resistant. When it comes to stability and durability, this cooking surface beats even the manufacture-favorite 18/10 stainless steel.
Who We Recommend It For
By now we know that an entirely made in USA cookware set built with most raw materials sourced from around here doesn’t come cheap. So if you have the budget but are wary, don’t be. Heritage Steel’s long-lasting quality will give you your money’s worth.
This 10 piece set is durable, easy to cook with, and has every vessel you would need in your kitchen for day-to-day cooking for your family. And the bigger pots and pans like the 8-quarts stockpot and 10.5” fry pan are sure to become your kitchen staples for their capacity and utility. So light up the kitchen flame and get the cooking going with great stainless steel pots and pans made in the USA!
Made In Cookware Stainless Steel Fry Pan
Made In Cookware – 10-Inch Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Sizes Available: 8″, 10″, 12″
Colors Available: Natural
Origin: Austin, Texas, USA
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information
Made In was started only in 2016 but founders Chip Malt and Jake Kalick come equipped with all the know-how and expertise, courtesy of their families dealing in kitchenware for over a century. By adopting a direct-to-consumer and online sales approach, the brand has been served a large number of homes and commercial kitchens while keeping costs in check. Made In’s wide array of products cover everything from Cast Iron, Stainless Clad, Carbon Steel, Non-Stick Copper Cookware, Bakeware, Knives, and dinnerware made in the USA.
Our Thoughts
This pan is as versatile as they come! A 5-ply stainless steel-aluminum configuration gets hot faster, evenly while retaining the heat for longer. Did I mention it’s induction compatible? Not only that, this pan’s ability to take on as much heat as 800 degrees means it can go from the stovetop to the oven for an uninterrupted cooking experience.
The long hollow handle stays cool and is ergonomically designed to provide a stable grip. While it’s built to last, a bit of care on our part will go a long way. To keep it looking brand new, avoid using metal utensils and preferably wash by hand instead of the dishwasher. The pan is available in 8 inches, 10 inches, and 12 inches as well!
Who We Recommend It For
Made In’s well-made cookware can be frequently spotted at many Michelin-starred kitchens, luxury hotels, and other foodservice setups. Their popularity continues to skyrocket among home cooks and food enthusiasts. Those seeking premium cookware at honest, pocket friendly should head to Made In’s Amazon Store and Website right away.
Styles of the Best Cookware Brands
There are several common styles of cookware available on the market right now. The most popular however, are:
Stainless clad (or stainless steel clad)
Cast iron
Non-stick
Stainless clad cookware is made of bonded layers of aluminum and copper, encased in stainless steel. A great conductor of even heat, it is a favourite of professional and home chefs. It can be expensive and is prone to scratches if it isn’t made well, but it’s durable and long-lasting. It can be used on the stovetop or in the oven.
Cast iron cookware is affordable, durable, and retains heat well. While it’s heavy, requires seasoning, and has limitations for how it can be used and cleaned, it’s irreplaceable for many dishes and cooking techniques.
Meanwhile, non-stick cookware is specially coated to ensure food doesn’t stick, making cooking easier. It may lose this ability over time if not cared for properly, and there are concerns about chemicals (like PFAS) used to make non-stick materials entering our food and environment. Thankfully, there are many non-toxic options now on the market.
Though there are surely benefits and drawbacks to using all the aforementioned types, most cookware made from these materials is bound to be high-quality and effective.
Top Materials That The Best Cookware Brands Use
In addition to the stainless steel discussed above, which is the most common material used in contemporary kitchen gear, there are several other materials currently being used in the creation of the most reliable, top-performing cookware.
They include, but are not limited to:
Cast iron
Copper
Lead-free ceramic
Glass
Cast iron cookware lasts forever and requires minimal cleaning, but needs to be taken care of carefully and is the heaviest type of cookware on our list.
Bare cast iron requires a protective “seasoning” – a process of creating a coating by applying a layer of oil. However, many options on the market now like pre-seasoned cast iron or enameled cast iron have taken care of that step.
Cast iron is known for its ability to go from cooktop to oven, and to take heat. It’s invaluable for things like searing and browning, for certain kinds of baking, and for dishes that would benefit from intense heat and rich flavour.
Like cast iron, copper has also been used to make cookware for thousands of years. Copper cookware is visually stunning (Martha Stewart is a notorious collector), notorious for its great performance, and is exceptionally good with heat.
A powerful conductor, nothing heats faster than copper. Copper cookware also heats evenly and cools quickly. It’s known for producing wonderful sear and crispness, and for maintaining the texture and colour of many foods.
Copper can be tricky. Highly acidic food items like vinegar may wear away at the varnish, and even result in copper entering our food. And, its ability to get super hot, super fast can take some getting used to if you’re unfamiliar.
Lead-free ceramic cookware comes in two variations: Non-stick ceramic coated cookware, or all-ceramic cookware.
Ceramic-coated cookware is a great, chemical-free alternative to Teflon and other non-stick materials cookware. They are easy to clean and fairly durable, and you get the heat-conducting benefits of having a metal base with the non-stick properties of a ceramic cooking surface.
Pure ceramic cookware is great for low-heat or slow cooking, but is less heat efficient compared to other materials and to non-stick ceramic coated pots and pans. Both kinds of ceramic cookware are non-toxic and totally food safe.
Ceramic is where you’ll want to opt for the investment brands. Ceramic in general lacks the durability of some other materials. That means many of the cheaper options can be prone to damage, and you’ll find yourself spending more to keep replacing your less expensive pots and pans.
Finally, glass cookware, which isn’t as commonly used today, is non-toxic and easy to use, but more delicate and breakable. It’s not the best option for high heat cooking, or for cooks looking for universality in their cookware.
However, glass cookware is a favourite among bakers. They value glass’s ability to create great crusts, distribute heat evenly without scorching, and to let you see what’s happening to your bake below the surface.
How To Choose The Best Cookware Brands
Cookware isn’t cheap. At least, great cookware isn’t. While there are many more affordable options on our list, and you can get wonderful cookware on a budget, the good stuff does cost more than the bargain brands found in many stores.
With cookware, it’s often true that you get what you pay for. Some bargain cookware isn’t built to last and isn’t built to bring out the best in your kitchen. The best cookware is an investment, not just in the longevity of your kitchen tools, but in the quality of your food.
Value is also relative. Good cookware can make better dishes, avoid toxic chemicals, and give you more use out of your cookware. It may be more cost-effective to spend a bit more upfront, instead of replacing your cookware more often, or ending up with sub-par pots and pans you won’t want to use.
That’s why it’s especially important to consider several factors before purchasing new cooking equipment, to make sure you’re really making the best choice for your kitchen.
Consider what it is you like to cook (or eat!) and opt for equipment that will compliment your skills and interests in the kitchen.
Are you the kind of person who loves pies, beautifully caramelized vegetables, and building layers of flavour in one-pan dinners? Then look into Great Jones or All-Clad cookware that can handle high heat, can be transferred from stovetop to oven, and can be used for baking.
Need a fast saute, a perfect omelette, and a quick cleanup? Non-stick cookware from brands like Caraway and Equal Parts is perfect. Want to bake both bread and seasonal soups in the same vessel? Try cast iron from a brand like Le Creuset. If you need all-purpose gear that can do it all on the stovetop, HexClad, Made In and Cuisinart have you covered.
Once you’ve considered what you want to make, consider how – and where – you cook.
Size and weight are important considerations, especially for people living in small apartments and other tight quarters. You’ll want to buy cookware you can lift, clean and store. You’ll also want to invest in what you’ll actually use. Some cookware sets get elaborate, which may not deliver the best value for a more pared-down cooking style the way a brand like Misen can.
Quality is also extremely important. While the brands on our list deliver consistent, high quality, you still want to know what to look for when assessing a potential purchase.
Generally, look for kitchenware that feels evenly weighted, has a level bottom, and has well-fitting lids. With pots and pans, you should assess the handle of the tool, ensuring it is firmly secured.
If you want to take your cookware from stovetop to oven or BBQ, check that your handles are heat-resistant and oven-safe. No one wants to be surprised by melted plastic!
You may also want to read up on the cookware’s warranty before purchasing to ensure, should something go wrong, you will be compensated.
Finally, you should also consider the materials used in creating that cookware product. Lower-end cookware may be made using toxic materials which can seep into your food.
You should always verify that your kitchenware is PFAS and PTFE-free, and check if there are any foods that could react negatively with your equipment.
- 1Best Value: All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware Set
- 2All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set
- 3Premium Pick: All-Clad Copper Core Cookware Set
- 4Viking 5-Ply 10 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 5Heritage Steel 10 Piece Cookware Set
- 6Made In Cookware Stainless Steel Fry Pan
- 7Styles of the Best Cookware Brands
- 8Top Materials That The Best Cookware Brands Use
- 9How To Choose The Best Cookware Brands
