It goes without saying that cooking is my thing! Over the years, I have purchased, tested, loved and hated so many different types of cookware. I have learned that quality matters, but so does my bank account. So instead of purchasing big sets of 10 or more pieces of cookware, I just purchase the quality pieces I love and know will last more than a generation. Here are my Top 5 Cookware items to buy during Prime Day. (As an Amazon associate, I earn a small commission on purchases at no cost to you.)
12 inch Skillet
A 12-inch Skillet is a kitchen essential. I have more than one because I have a big family of 10 and having two skillets cooking simultaneously saves me time. But if your family is smaller than mine, one 12-inch Skillet should do the job. I’m a huge fan of cast iron and huge fan of the French brand Staub. I’m linking two options for you. First is the Staub 12-inch Skillet with a textured, black enamel interior that is already seasoned, so you don’t need to worry about seasoning for it to become non-stick. It’s ready out of the box and it’s heirloom quality. This red one is on sale for $184, which is a huge savings. Second is the Tramontina 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet with Lid in cobalt on sale for $69.95. If you are not familiar with this brand, it is the best kept secret in cookware! It performs very well and looks sharp. Other colors are available for a little more. Both of these options can be used on any type of stove: gas, electric, induction, or glass top, though I would be cautious when using on the glass top ones. They could cause glass breakage if accidently dropped onto the glass surface.
- Made in France
- Oven safe up to 900F/482C
- Smooth enamel bottom works on all stovetops including gas electric glass ceramic induction and halogen
- Each piece is one of a kind
- Pouring spouts for easy fat removal
- Vibrant, gradated finish for an elegant and seamless stovetop to tabletop serving presentation
- Equipped with helper handle & 2 pouring lips
- Compatible with gas, electric, ceramic glass and induction cooktops
- Oven safe up to 450°F (232°F); Hand-wash only Lifetime Warranty
- UPC – 016017077560
Saucepans: Two Sizes
You really need two sizes of saucepans, and I recommend the 3-quart and a 4-quart. They sound so similar in size, so why two? Great question! When making a small amount of sauce you need the smaller cooking surface area of a smaller pan. You need an appropriate depth to width ratio in order for proper cooking. You don’t want a sauce that barely covers the bottom of the pan – that pan is too large. The sauce will cook too rapidly and usually result in burning, scorching, or uneven cooking. The Cuisinart Stainless Steel 3-Quart Saucepan with Lid is an excellent choice at $48.42. It has similar features of the more expensive All-Clad brand for less than half the price and comparable quality. The Cuisinart 4-Quart Stainless Steel Saucepan with Lid is the other great choice at $59.99.
- EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN: Enjoy mirror finish, classic look and professional performance. Aluminum encapsulated base heats quickly and spreads heat evenly– eliminating hot spots
- PREMIUM COOKING: Stainless steel cooking surface does not discolor, react with food or alter flavors. Measurement markings for ease of use, drip free pouring, and flavor lock lid
- EXCEPTIONAL HANDLING: Cool grip handles are solid stainless steel riveted handles that stay cool on the stove top and provide a safe a solid grip
- CLEAN UP: Dishwasher safe for an easy clean up
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: Refer to user manual for troubleshooting steps and questions surrounding warranty policies – this product is BPA free
- EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN: professional Triple Ply Construction features a core of pure aluminum bonded to a stainless interior. Heat Surround Technology allows for even heat distribution along the bottom and sidewalls of the cookware
- PREMIUM COOKING: stainless steel cooking surface does not discolor, react with food or alter flavors. Measurement markings for ease of use, drip free pouring, and flavor lock lid
- EXCEPTIONAL HANDLING: cool grip handle is solid stainless steel riveted stick handles that stay cool on the stove top and provide a safe a solid grip
- CLEAN UP: dishwasher safe for an effortless clean up
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: Refer to user manual for troubleshooting steps and questions surrounding warranty policies – this product is BPA free
Dutch Oven
Man, do I love a Dutch oven! They have to be one of the most versatile pieces of cooking equipment in any kitchen. They’re perfect for soups, stews, risotto, sour dough bread, roasts, spaghetti sauce, and so much more. I have several in my kitchen, but one great one is all you need unless you do a ton of cooking like I do. And there are many great options to choose from in various price points. The more expensive ones truly are high quality that can be handed down to future generations, brands like Le Creuset and Staub. They are enamel coated cast iron and clean easily, although I suggest washing by hand. I suggest getting a large one, at least 6 quarts. This one from Le Creuset is 7.25 quarts and the color cerise is on sale for 25 percent off. And this white, oval 6.25 quart from Staub is a steal for $212.50 It’s oval shape is great for roasts and whole chickens. For a more budget-friendly option, the Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid is on sale for an incredible price of $58.15, though they have many more colors starting at $79. And at that price, why not get two? They also make great gifts. All of these options work on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
- Ready to use, requires no seasoning
- Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
- Light colored smooth interior enamel allows easy monitoring of cooking progress
- Tight-fitting lids are specially designed to circulate steam and return moisture back to the food
- Made in France
- Heavy weight, tight-fitting lid retains moisture, spikes on the lid create a rain-forest effect evenly returning juices back onto food
- Oven safe up to 900F/482C without lid, Lids are oven safe up to 500F/260C
- Brass knob
- Smooth enamel bottom works on all stovetops, including gas, electric, glass, ceramic, induction, and halogen
- YOUR GO-TO DUTCH OVEN: A flawless pairing of form and function that doesn’t quit. The Lodge Dutch Oven not only makes your kitchen look good but is an enameled cast iron classic great for preparing and serving memorable meals. Broil, braise, bake or roast your favorite meals in the oven up to 500 Degree F.
- WHAT IS PORCELAIN ENAMEL ON CAST IRON. It is glass that becomes bonded to the cast iron at high temperatures. A particulate of glass, called frit, is applied to the cast iron vessel and then baked at temperatures between 1200 and 1400° F. The glass frit melts and fuses to the cast iron, forming a bond. Porcelain enamel on cast iron is heat tolerant and impervious to water and other consumables.
- EASY TO COOK AND CLEAN: The porcelain enameled interior has a smooth finish that minimizes sticking, promotes caramelization and resists staining. Although enameled cast iron is dishwasher safe, hand washing with warm soapy water and a nylon scrub brush is recommended to keep your Dutch Oven in tip top shape
- HEAT RETENTION: The cast iron vessel has superior heat distribution and retention, evenly heating throughout both the bottom and sidewalls. The tightly fitting lid seals in moisture for scrumptious pot roast, stews or a large batch of beans. Our heat retention also reduces the amount of energy needed for cooking.
- FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it’s a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America. Products made with non-toxic, PFOA & PTFE free material.
Stockpot
And my final recommendation is the stockpot. Stockpots are great for blanching vegetables, cooking pasta, making stock, canning vegetables or jam, and much more. As far as size goes, there are so many variations, but I suggest getting one larger than your Dutch oven. While I have three sizes of stockpots in my kitchen, you really only need one big one and this Cook’s Standard Stainless Steel Stockpot 12-Quart is an excellent value. It is 18/10 stainless steel, which is what high quality silverware is made of. It’s durable, easy to clean, and dishwasher and oven safe. Best of all it’s only $39.99!
- 18/10 Stainless Steel: 12 quart stockpot made of 18/10 stainless steel, it is durable and resistant to corrosion; The pot body is thick, not easily deformed, and easy to clean
- Even Heating: Stainless steel stock pot with impact bonding aluminum disc in bottom; The aluminum core ensures that heat is evenly distributed /quick and no hot spots
- Multi-Purpose: Standard 12 quart stainless steel stockpot, suitable for cooking soups, pasta, making sauces, stews and noodles
- Ergonomic design: The pot handle is securely fixed with rivets, making it sturdy, durable, and comfortable to hold; It is convenient and safe to operate; The stainless steel lid fits tightly to keep food moist and flavorful
- Versatile and Compatible: 12 qt stockpot works on induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, and more; Dishwasher safety; Oven safe to 500℉
Check out our other Top 5 recommendations for Small Appliances, Bakeware, Measuring, Knives, Bowls, Utensils, Dinnerware Sets, and Silverware. We also have Top 10’s for Serveware & Accessories and Pantry Staples. Check them out and let us know what you want to see next.
