The best casseroles

A good saucepan is needed to make cooking enjoyable and not a headache. It is important that the food does not stick to it, it is easy to clean, does not scratch when in contact with detergents, does not absorb food odors and does not affect its taste. Our rating of the best pots will help you choose such dishes, which includes safe and comfortable aluminum, glass, enamel, ceramic models with a regular and thick bottom.

Pans rating

To facilitate the choice of users, the TOP was divided into several sections, taking into account the materials for making pots - enameled, cast iron, aluminum, glass, ceramic. When analyzing each position, attention was paid to safety, ease of use, ease of care of products, the ratio of their price and quality, availability on the market, and design.

Products were added to the rating after studying the following characteristics:

• Manufacturing material - steel, cast iron, aluminum, glass, ceramics;
• Purpose - dishes for which they are suitable;
• Volume, shape and diameter;
• Color and pattern;
• Materials and method of fastening the handles;
• The thickness of the walls and bottom, as well as its type (ordinary or multilayer);
• Shape and materials of lids and handles on them;
• Compatible with stoves - electric, gas, induction;
• Can be used in an oven and microwave;
• Dishwasher safe;
• Tableware weight;
• Resistance to mechanical stress;
• Reaction to high and low temperatures;
• Compatible with scrapers and various detergents.

Also, when studying the characteristics of goods and reviews about them, it was taken into account whether the walls absorb the smells of food, whether its aroma, taste and useful properties change during cooking.

Best Enamel Pot

This is the name of the dishes made of steel and coated with special enamel. It can be used on any stove - gas, electric, induction. It is easy to clean and does not need expensive detergents. Such a product is resistant to deformation and high temperatures, therefore it is suitable for use on an open fire. Among the 7 applicants, experts at expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ settled on one, the safest and most convenient model.

Metrot Oliva 7.5 l

The dishes are made of rust-resistant steel, so they serve for years without any complaints. On the sides there are 2 thick handles for easy grip. However, due to the lack of overlays on them, you will have to use potholders. The lid is made of transparent glass for easy cooking control.

The model "Metrot" in the rating of pots stands out for its large volume - 7.5 liters, which is suitable for preparing both first and second courses. It is especially relevant in a large family. Due to its considerable volume, the product weighs 2.28 kg. Thanks to the enamel coating, the metal base does not deteriorate for a long time.

The dishes have a flat and thick bottom, to which food does not burn. The heat is evenly distributed over the entire area, which eliminates the digestion of individual foods. The surface heats up quickly, which speeds up the process. It is compatible with any type of stove - electric, gas, induction.

Advantages:

• Dishwasher safe;
• The lid has a hole for steam outlet;
• Easy to clean;
• The enamel is not scratched in contact with abrasive substances;
• Raised handles.

Disadvantages:

• The cover "walks" a little;
• White, easily soiled color.

In the reviews they write that the handle on the lid practically does not get warm, so it is convenient to follow the preparation. Also, users note the possibility of processing many products here - from cereals to potatoes.

Cast iron pans

They are the most durable and last for 10-20 years without losing their aesthetic properties. They are characterized by an even distribution of heat and its long-term preservation. Out of 8 contenders for the title of the best, 2 models became the winners, meeting the criteria of safety, ease of maintenance, ease of use.

Biol 0206, 6 l

A cast-iron model that performs in parallel the functions of a cauldron due to its thick walls. It is almost impossible to spoil it, unless with a strong impact on a hard surface. The product resists high temperatures well and is not subject to deformation due to their influence.

Biol 0206 does not change the taste of food and does not release toxins when heated, therefore, ready-made food is completely safe for health. Over time, the walls and bottom do not rust or scratch, maintaining an aesthetic appearance. You can safely use a scraper and cleaning powders to care for the product. The secure attachment of the handles prevents them from breaking off.

The empty model weighs 6.3 kg and it is not easy to lift it with the contents. With a mouth diameter of 26 cm, even large items can easily be entered here. Due to the 3.5 mm thick walls and the thick bottom of the pan (4 mm), it warms up well. So cooking takes less time. A total of 6 liters are inside.

Advantages:

• Wall height - 16 cm;
• Can be used in the oven;
• The shape expanding towards the top, which allows the heat to be evenly distributed;
• Suitable for induction cookers;
• The lid can be used as a frying pan.

Disadvantages:

• Heavy;
• Afraid of acidic foods.

In reviews, before cooking, it is recommended to warm up the bottom for 2-3 minutes to avoid burning food.

LE Creuset 4.2 L

This model is sold in 11 colors - from gray to black. It comes with a flat, non-transparent lid, so the contents are not visible. Due to the lack of a steam outlet, an overpressure can build up inside, which is why it is sometimes necessary to open it slightly to avoid boiling.

LE Creuset cookware is made of 100% cast iron, which is practically indestructible over time. It is scratch resistant and does not require the use of special paddles. The monolithic type of handles ensures their firm attachment to the walls, and the large size provides a comfortable grip.

Inside holds 4.2 liters of food, which can be immediately stored in the refrigerator. It cools slowly and heats up quickly without burning to the bottom. Therefore, the likelihood of toxins entering the body is minimized. The product has good thermal conductivity, speeding up cooking.

Advantages:

• Can be put in an oven;
• Induction cooker compatible;
• Smooth bottom;
• Surface stability;
• Fits with a dishwasher.

Disadvantages:

• High price.

According to reviews, the model is relevant as an alternative to a saucepan and cauldron when cooking pilaf, stews and other similar dishes.

Ceramic casserole

Such dishes pot makers offers less often than aluminum and cast iron. It is versatile - it can be used both for cooking on the stove and in the oven. You can also store ready-made food in it without changing its taste and useful properties. One model became the leader in the analysis of product characteristics.

Appetite oval 1.2 l

Universal cookware suitable for both cooking and storing food. It is chosen for its health safety. The ceramic material from which the walls, bottom and lid are made does not emit toxins. Also, thanks to him, the color and taste of dishes does not change.

The “Appetite” model keeps warm for a long time and prevents cold food from heating up quickly.Ceramics withstands low and high temperatures with dignity, excluding the appearance of cracks. However, she is afraid of mechanical damage and may break if dropped.

Since the pan has good quality, it can be safely washed with a sponge and a scraper using any detergent. Nothing burns to the bottom, so oil consumption is automatically reduced. For stirring food, you can use metal, wooden or silicone cutlery. This does not affect non-stick properties.

Advantages:

• Monolithic, secure attachment of handles;
• Oval shape, convenient for baking;
• Can be washed in the dishwasher;
• Thick, tight-fitting lid;
• Not very heavy as for a pottery.

Disadvantages:

• Absorbs food odors;
• Small volume - 1.2 l.

The product can be used in the oven only if the maximum temperature of 220 degrees is observed.

Glass pan

The heat-resistant glass container can withstand temperatures up to 220-300 degrees, which allows it to be used both on the stove and in the oven. You can cook, stew, bake products in it. It is also suitable for storing ready-made food, which does not lose its taste in the process. We present one winner in this category.

Borcam 59003, 2 l

The Borcam 59003 glass pan is suitable for both gas and electric cookers and induction hobs. It does not scratch the coating when in tight contact. The model is safe, since it is made from natural materials that do not emit harmful toxins when heated.

Borcam 59003, due to the smooth walls and bottom, is easy to clean, because dirt does not accumulate in the micropores. For this, you can use any powder and gel products. A glass product is not afraid of low temperatures and tolerates frosts down to -30 degrees, therefore it is allowed to store food in it in the freezer.

The product does not absorb odors and does not transfer them to other dishes. Thanks to this, it can be used both for cooking and for storing in the refrigerator. It allows you to reheat food in the microwave. Due to its aesthetic appearance, you can serve dishes on the festive table right in it.

Advantages:

• Dishwasher safe;
• Transparent walls;
• The food inside slowly cools;
• Not afraid of the effects of salt and acids;
• It is convenient to observe the food while cooking.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of a handle on the lid;
• No non-stick coating.

Those who have already bought the pan speak well of it. Due to the small volume (2 l), the dishes do not take up much space in the refrigerator. Moreover, its walls are high - 80 mm, and the diameter is 250 mm.

Aluminum pans

The main advantages of such containers are their low cost and wide selection. However, food often sticks to this bottom, so it is recommended to choose more expensive models with a non-stick coating. Among them, 2 products deserve special attention, which are considered further in the rating.

Kukmara Marble 20 cm, 2 L

The pot "Kukmara Marble" holds 2 liters, which is enough for a small family. The material of manufacture is aluminum, which is characterized by lightness and low cost. But due to the non-stick, marble finish, the cost has increased. The multi-layer bottom contributes to the long-term retention of heat inside and its even distribution over the entire area.

This model retains the color, useful properties and taste of food. Food stays hot longer in it and you can save energy on heating. The product has monolithic handles that are securely attached to the walls. They don't get very hot, so potholders are not always needed.

Kukmara Marble is equipped with a glass lid, which is convenient for controlling the cooking. There is a large handle on top for easy removal. The walls and bottom have an optimal thickness of 6 mm, which prevents them from cooling for a long time and allows them to heat up quickly.Here you can cook vegetables, eggs, soups, cereals - all dishes are made from non-acidic products.

Advantages:

• Nothing burns to the bottom;
• No food odors from the walls;
• Can be used in the oven;
• Dishwasher safe;
• Compatible with aluminum, wood and silicone paddles.

Disadvantages:

• Weighs 1.5 kg;
• Not low cost.

According to reviews, the dishes have a very convenient size - it is just suitable for cooking pilaf and stewing vegetables.

Nadoba Mineralica 4.3 l

The Nadoba Mineralica is made entirely of die-cast aluminum, with thick sides and bottom. Thanks to this, they evenly heat up and distribute heat in the same way, which contributes to high-quality food preparation and preservation of its taste.

Nadoba Mineralica has a top diameter of 24 cm, so a whole chicken or a large piece of meat can easily enter here. Due to the volume of 4.3 liters at a time, you can prepare food for several days. For easy grip, 2 short bakelite handles are provided. This material does not heat up and for it you can brothers during cooking without fear of getting burned.

The model has a glass lid made of a heat-resistant material that can withstand high temperatures. There is a bakelite handle here, which you can safely grasp while cooking. To avoid food burning, the bottom of the pan is of good quality, non-stick, which makes it easy to clean.

Advantages:

• Can be placed on induction hobs;
• Smooth bottom;
• Dishwasher-safe;
• Does not absorb food odors;
• Serves for a long time.

Disadvantages:

• Not a low price;
• It is not recommended to keep food inside for a long time.

The reviews indicate that in the event of a lid breakage, it is not always possible to buy it separately - problems arise with the selection of a suitable size and shape.

How to choose a saucepan

Cookware should not absorb food odors and release toxins to avoid health risks. It is important that food does not stick to it, the walls quickly heat up and slowly cool down to maintain a comfortable temperature for a long time. In order for the product to be used in the oven and microwave, you need to choose models with this function.

Body material

Cooking porridge, noodles, jam is most convenient in aluminum models, which help them reach faster. However, it is possible for food to burn to the bottom in the absence of an appropriate coating, therefore it is recommended to choose dishes with a multilayer, marble bottom.

Stew meat and vegetables, make pilaf and cook soups well in enameled products with thick walls. They keep heat for a long time and conduct it perfectly, contributing to uniform cooking. However, they need to be careful - do not rub the surface hard with hard scrapers and abrasive cleaning agents.

As a cauldron and baking container, you can use ceramic products that withstand both high and low temperatures with dignity. They will be able to keep food in the refrigerator longer without losing taste. Glass versions are an alternative to ceramic models.

Diameter

If it is more than 20 cm, then whole vegetables, meat steaks, chicken, fish, etc. will fit inside without problems. Otherwise, you will have to cut it all into pieces, which sometimes contradicts the chosen recipe. For optimal heat distribution, the diameter at the bottom should be smaller than at the top. In the case of choosing an induction pan, it is good if it matches the size of the hotplate to avoid unnecessary energy losses.

Volume

For a small family of 2-3 people, a saucepan with a capacity of up to 3 liters is enough. In such a container, you can make the first and second courses for several days. However, if it is not planned to cook soups and side dishes in them, then you can limit yourself to models with more modest sizes. They are relevant for stewing goulash, fish, vegetables. Jam, for example, is always cooked in a roomy container - from 5 liters.

Wall and bottom thickness

With walls more than 1 mm thick, the dishes take longer to warm up, but also cool down more slowly. If they are thin - less than 0.4 mm, then they are subject to deformation as a result of temperature effects.

The thickness of the bottom of the pots ranges from 2-9 mm, depending on the material. The denser it is, the less likely the food will burn. For uniform heating and slow cooling, it is better to choose multi-layer products.

Slab compatibility

Most pots, regardless of the materials of manufacture, are suitable for all gas and electric ovens. To be used with induction hobs, they must be specially marked. This is the name given to dishes, the bottom of which has ferromagnetic properties and interacts with the currents of the copper coil of the hob.

Which saucepan is better

Ideally, the house should have dishes made of all materials - cast iron, aluminum, ceramic, glass. Each of them is designed for its own purposes - cooking cereals, soups, pasta, compote, jam. It is also advisable to choose a saucepan of different sizes - from 1 liter. If the family is small, then you can limit yourself to 3-5 liters, because more spacious containers do not always fit in the refrigerator.

In conclusion, you need to highlight the leaders in your niche:

• It is better to cook soups, compotes, jelly, vegetables for a large family or for several days in advance in an enameled saucepan "Metrot Oliva" with a volume of 7.5 liters.
• It is convenient to stew vegetables, meat, fish, cook pilaf in a cast-iron container "Biol 0206" for 6 liters.
• A good alternative to the saucepan is the LE Creuset 4.2 L, which does not burn food to the bottom.
• You can bake vegetables, meat, fish in the oven in an oval-shaped "Appetite" ceramic dish with a volume of 1.2 liters.
• For serving hot dishes, you should choose Borcam 59003 with heat-resistant glass walls.
• You can cook porridge, including in milk, stew vegetables and meat, cook soups in Kukmara with a marble non-stick coating, which holds 2 liters.
• A versatile option, suitable for preparing both first and second courses, is Nadoba Mineralica 4.3 L from ceramics.

The rating considers models from all existing materials for the preparation of first and second courses, side dishes, drinks, etc. During the study, it was found out which pots are the best and most harmless, when choosing a product, you just need to decide on your budget and goals. Enjoy the shopping!