Full list of cookware brands that still make their products in the USA
-
Darrian Wilkins
- Last update: February 4, 2022
Disclaimer: we may receive commissions from purchases made via our links at no cost to you
Made In The Sous Chef Cookware Set
- Made in the USA and France
- Quick, even heating and good heat retention
- Nonstick pan releases food easily
- All pieces are suitable for induction stovetops
- Nonstick pan is oven safe to 500F
- Stainless clad pan is oven safe to 800F
- Handles offer a firm grip and do stay cool
- Both pots and pans are easy to clean
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty
- 45 day return policy – return cookware for free if you don’t like it
Products made in the USA are almost always perceived to be of superior quality compared to the rest. Mainly because America’s technology is top-notch and its products are made to the finest levels. Cookware made in the USA is not different when it comes to quality.
They are made using different kinds of materials including stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron, non-stick coating, etc. Here are some top brands you can consider if you are looking to buy cookware that’s manufactured right here in America.
Stainless Steel Cookware
1. 360 Cookware
360 Cookware was started in 2004 by Bryan Hurley together with his dad after their previous company sent the majority of its labor and skills to Asian countries.
The goal of the company is to ensure that food comes out as natural as possible with the help of their cookware technology known as Vapor® Technology.
The company offers a lifetime warranty on all their products which covers against any manufacturing defects plus the 360 Cookware is handcrafted and manufactured in their Green E-Certified factory based in West Bend, Wisconsin in the USA.
The staple product
- Quality and Construction: Surgical Grade Stainless Steel. Multi Core for rapid, and even, heat distribution. 360 Cookware is thicker than most cookware brands on the market: 110 Gauge. Our Surgical Grade Stainless Steel Cooking surface gives you a healthy alternative to coated nonstick frying pans or any aluminum pots and pans set.
- Oven safe up to 500 degrees F. Ergonomic handles for easier and better control. Works on every type of stove: gas, electric, smooth top, glass top and induction cooktop.
- Waterless Cookware Capable: A century old technology. The construction of our pans with lids create a vapor seal, which allows you to heat your food from every angle (360 degrees). Cooks food faster at lower temperatures, while keeping the nutrients and natural flavor intact. An added benefit of our cookware.
This 6-piece set from 360 Cookware is not non-stick but it has a non-porous interior that allows food to remove easily. Besides that, the vapor technology together with the specially designed water seal lid does a good job of preventing nutrients from escaping.
They facilitate low-moisture cooking by circulating vapor and heat throughout the pot hance allowing the food to cook more naturally and evenly.
You need to fill 2/3’s of the cookware with food though and maintain the heat to around medium to low for the vapor technology to work effectively.
You can use water and oils in them too and there’s no harmful leaching since the cooking surface is T-304 surgical grade stainless steel.
Each piece is heavy and extremely durable as several users pointed out. They feature stainless steel clad aluminum construction with a .110 gauge total thickness hence they’re not going to warp.
The handles are ergonomic and easy to hold. They are made from stainless steel and are sturdy but some users mentioned that they can get hot when cooking.
Overheating and water residues or minerals can discolor the stainless steel finish too but overall, the set cleans up easily with the use of a good stainless steel cleaner like bar keepers friend.
Pros
- Food doesn’t stick on the surface
- Cooks food naturally and evenly using vapor technology
- Uniform distribution of heat to every surface
- Heavy set that’s solidly built and highly durable
- Ergonomic handles that provide good grip
- Works with induction stovetops and oven safe up to 400oF
- Handcrafted in the USA and comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Handles can get hot when cooking
- Stainless steel finish can get discolored when overheated
2. 1919 Cookware
The 1919 Cookware is a brand under Regal Ware which is an American-owned private company that specializes in cookware production and boasts of a reputation spanning over 100 years. The 1919 is the latest addition to their collection.
The company offers a limited lifetime warranty on all their cookware products and it covers any defects in material and craftmanship that arise under normal use.
The staple product
The first commendable thing about this pan is the thick, robust construction. It’s a solid pan that can last for decades and it’s not that heavy despite its thick 5-ply design.
The cooking performance is also commendable. The aluminum core distributes the heat evenly up to the edges. The pan retains the heat well for long periods.
The inner layer is 18/10 stainless steel and from what users say, food doesn’t stick much on it. The sides are deep hence will prevent food from splattering and as well provide a larger cooking surface.
The handle is rounded and smooth which may not offer sufficient grip but it’s very sturdy made with solid stainless steel. It does stay cool when cooking on low to moderate heat but can get hot when under the stovetop for long or when using the pan in the oven.
Clean up is a breeze especially since the cooking surface releases food easily.
Pros
- Releases food easily
- Suitable for all cooktops including induction
- Safe for oven use up to 500F
- Sturdy stainless steel handle
- Easy to clean and comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- The handle may not provide a firm grip
- The handle can get hot when on the heat for long
3. All-Clad
All-Clad is known for its innovative, high-performance bonded cookware products which are handcrafted by American artisans using American-made steel in the company’s mill in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania USA.
The company was started in 1967 by John Ulam and has been producing a complete collection of superior cookware.
The staple product
- Set includes: 10-inch fry pan, 1.5-quart sauce pans with lid, 3-quart saute pan with lid, and 8-quart stockpot with lid
- 5-ply bonded construction with alternating layers of stainless steel and aluminum for warp-free durability and supremely even heating that eliminates hotspots
- For an added touch of refinement, it features a beautiful and easy to maintain brushed finish and fitted, stainless-steel lids
The All-Clad D5 is a well built stainless steel cookware set with a solid feel. All the pieces heat up quickly and evenly. They cook food evenly with no hotspots and stay warm longer once removed from heat.
Most users claimed to have no issues with food sticking on the pan or pots as they have a highly polished 18/10 stainless steel cooking surface.
However, a few mentioned that food does stick several times, especially when cooking on high heat.
Others pointed out that you have to season the pans or food will stick. Nonetheless, the pans have nice flared rims that allow for easy pouring and removal of food.
Handles are securely riveted and offer a good grip. The only negative as highlighted by some users is that the smaller handles on the pots do get very hot when cooking.
The major complaint we noted is that the pieces get stained easily, even with water spots. They clean up well though using a bar keepers friend cleanser. Using excessively high heat will, however not only cause food to stick but also discolor the pans.
Pros
- All pieces heat up quickly and evenly
- Safe for oven and broiler use up to 600oF
- Compatible with induction stovetops
- Securely riveted handles that offer good grip
- Cleans up easily and comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Might require seasoning to ensure food doesn’t stick
- The smaller handles on the pots do get very hot
- The pieces get stained easily and can discolor on high heat
4. BelKraft
BelKraft International Inc. is amongst the oldest and most reputable factory-direct suppliers of stainless steel cookware in the U.S and Canada.
What’s interesting about the BelKraft is the unique 7-ply construction of their cookware products which uses T316 Surgical Stainless Steel reinforced with titanium.
Another notable thing is their vacumatic cooking system which is a waterless system of cooking. The company employs factory-direct supply meaning you can only make purchases through reaching out to their factory.
The staple product
The starter Set B is a 7-piece cookware set that you can expect to last for years because it has a heavy-gauge stainless steel construction that’s very sturdy. The pans heat evenly thanks to the aluminum inner core that runs from the bottom to the rim.
No leaching of metal to your food either since the interior surface is T316 Surgical Stainless Steel with titanium which is a non-reactive material plus foods don’t stick on this surface unless the heat is too high.
The set equally features BelKraft’s vacumatic design (moisture seal technology) which means food gets cooked in a vacuum vapor without adding oil or water hence all the nutrients and flavor are well retained.
The covers feature a whistle-lock-vent knob eliminating the need to watch over your food. The whistle alerts you when the food has reached proper cooking temperature. The knob also allows you to lock in moisture or release it without whistling.
Handles are ergonomically designed and have plastic fittings that provide a comfortable grip. They stay cool on the stovetop and are oven safe up to 350oF but anything above that can cause the plastic to melt. They also have slide-out rings for easy hanging and storage.
Cleaning up this set is not likely to pose much challenge but stains and light-colored residue can occur especially from cooking starchy foods or from hard water spots. Blue heat tints may occur too in case of persistent overheating.
Pros
- Heats up evenly and retains the heat quite well
- Non-reactive cooking surface releases food easily
- Moisture seal technology retains nutrients and flavor
- Ergonomic handles that stay cool on the stovetop
- Oven safe up to 350oF and suitable for induction stovetops
- Simple to cleans and features a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Foods can stick when cooking on high heat
- Handles cannot withstand temperatures above 350oF
- Persistent overheating may create heat tints
5. Heritage Steel
Heritage Steel is a cookware manufacturer based in Clarksville, Tennessee. The company is family-owned and has been in the industry for more than 40 years.
The mission of Heritage Steel is to provide homes with quality products at an affordable price and like the BelKraft, it’s amongst the few brands that use 7-ply construction on their cookware to ensure superior durability and also great cooking performance.
The staple product
- TITANIUM-STRENGTHENED: Specialty 316Ti cooking surface is strengthened with titanium for 20x increase in corrosion resistance. It is chemically inert, preserving the taste and health of the food you cook.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The cooking surface cooks evenly, readily releases food, and cleans easily.
- 5 PLY CONSTRUCTION: We use multiple layers of metal including 3 layers of aluminum for enhanced heat conductivity and durability. The exterior titanium-strengthened 439 steel will maintain its luster for a lifetime of cooking. Use on any type of stovetop including induction and in the oven.
The first thing to like about this Heritage Steel 8-Piece Core Set is that it’s a commercial-grade set of pans and pots.
The interior is made of 316Ti stainless steel which is a titanium-strengthened stainless steel cooking surface.
It’s tough and more durable than the typical 18/10 steel surface. It’s not likely to succumb to corrosion and it’s non-reactive too.
3 layers of aluminum have been incorporated throughout the body of each piece when ensures even and efficient heating as attested by users. Most of them agreed that the pans and pot heat quickly and so evenly up to the sides allowing everything to cook properly.
The quality materials and construction also facilitate low heat and low oil/butter cooking. Food doesn’t stick much on the pans hence you won’t need much oil to fry eggs and similar types of food.
Handling the pieces is fairly easy since the handles feature an ergonomic hollow design that fits nicely in the hand and is comfortable to hold.
They do get hot, however, when cooking on the stove for long as some users mentioned. Clean up is a breeze and although they do stain easily, users didn’t notice any discoloring or speckling after cleaning as is the case with a lot of polished stainless steel cookware.
Pros
- The tough, non-reactive cooking surface
- Heats quickly and distributes the heat evenly
- Good for low oil cooking as food doesn’t stick easily
- Oven safe up to 800F and works with induction cooktops
- Ergonomic hollow handles that are comfortable to hold
- Simple to clean and comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Handles may get hot when on the stove or oven for long
6. USA PAN®
USA PAN® was established in 2009 as a retail brand of the Bundy Family company which is one of the largest commercial bakeware manufacturers in the world.
They established the USA PAN® brand purposely to provide commercial quality bakeware and cookware products that deliver professional-grade results. All their cookware products are made in Kansas and are backed by a lifetime warranty.
The staple product
- Set includes a 7-inch sauce pan with cover, a 4 quart stock pot with cover, an 8 quart stock pot with cover, an 8-inch chef skillet, and a 10-inch chef skillet.
- Cover included; cast stainless steel handles, Stainless steel rivets and features an easy pour rim and vapor seal cover design
- Waterless and greaseless cooking capability for healthy cooking; Energy efficient, suitable for cooking on low or medium heat
Each cookware in this set has a sturdy 5-ply construction and is fairly heavy to be easy to handle.
According to a majority of users, they heat fast with the heat distributed evenly throughout making it possible to cook food well on lower heat.
The cooking surface is 18/10 stainless steel which is not nonstick but most users noted that it does perform relatively well for certain foods as long as you follow the directions provided.
However, cooking things like pancakes, eggs, fish, and meats require using a little oil or else they will stick to the pans.
Users especially liked the waterless cooking capability which they said works well on vegetables. Each lid cover has a vapor seal design that prevents steam from escaping out the sides. It seals in nutrients and flavor allowing the food to cook in its own natural liquids.
The handles are decently sized and offer a good gip. They get warm when used on the stovetop, but are touchable. If used in the oven, they do get really hot.
Food may leave burn residue onto the pans at high heat, but once soaked with soapy water, they usually clean up easily as pointed out by users.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable 5-ply construction
- Fast heating with the heat distributed evenly
- Vapor seal, waterless cooking capability
- Ideal for low to medium heat cooking
- Secure handles that offer a good grip
- Induction capable and oven safe up to 500F
- Clean up is a breeze and has a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Handles can get quite hot in an oven
- Cooking surface is not nonstick
7. Viking Cookware
Viking is one of the leading cookware brands in the U.S.A. The company was founded by Fred Carl, and since it’s inception in 1987, it has been producing quality commercial-size cookware range.
Their Professional Series Cookware is a special line of fully clad 5-ply stainless cookware products that are built to last and deliver optimum cooking performance.
The staple product
- Set includes 10 inch fry pan, 2 quart saucepan with lid, 8 quart stockpot with lid and 3.4 quart sauté pan with lid
- Professional 5-Ply construction maximizes heat transfer quickly for even cooking or heating; Oven, broiler and grill safe up to 600°F/315°C and for use on all cooktops, including induction
- 18/10 stainless steel interior is non-reactive; Interior capacity markings for easy measuring (except fry pans)
The build quality of each piece in this Viking Professional set is solid. They are thick and slightly heavy hence can hold up pretty well for many years.
Their cooking performance is not bad either. The conductivity of heat in both pans and pots is almost instantaneous according to the overall consensus.
You only need to use low to medium heat as they heat so evenly from the bottom to the sides and hold the heat well.
The cooking surface is 18/10 stainless steel which works fine provided you are cooking on low to medium heat and use a little oil.
The handles are large and ergonomically designed to provide balance and a secure but comfortable grip. They do stay cool to touch during most phases of cooking on a stovetop. However, they may get hot when used in the oven or for an extended period on the stovetop.
A lot of users reported that they didn’t have any problem with clean up. If food sticks or burns, you just soak the cookware and use a non-abrasive cleaner and it will come right off. Some users mentioned that all the pieces eventually discolor or lose their sheen with use which is the case with nearly all stainless steel cookware.
Pros
- Heat evenly and hold the heat well
- Suitable for induction and all other cooktops
- Oven and broiler safe up to 600F
- Ergonomic handles offer a firm yet comfortable grip
- Simple to clean up when food sticks or burns
- Interior capacity markings to allow for easy measuring
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- May require the use of oil to prevent food from sticking
- Handles may get hot when cooking for long or in oven
- Loses their sheen with use
8. Wolf Gourmet
Wolf Gourmet is an American manufacturer of countertop appliances and kitchen tools. The company is known for it’s attention to detail when it comes to making their products.
Wolf Gourmet cookware products are all crafted in the USA using 7-ply stainless steel construction for incredible durability. Other thoughtful features of their cookware include ergonomically designed handles, flared rims, and beveled walls.
The staple product
- Proprietary 7-ply construction - All seven layers extend all the way up the sides of each pot, pan, and skillet
- Exceptionally durable construction provides even heat distribution, faster heating, and superior heat retention for a lifetime of delicious cooking
- Fast, even heating
A large majority of users seem to agree that both pots and pans in this Wolf Gourmet set to heat up quickly and evenly plus have good heat retention while cooking.
However, one user mentioned that the outer edges of the pans tend to heat up and remain hotter than the middle when using a gas stove.
The cooking surface is a smooth 18/10 stainless steel. There were several complaints that everything stuck to it while others mentioned that touch of oil or butter in the pan does help keep foods from sticking.
The walls of each piece are beveled, which somewhat reduces the chances of food burning and sticking. They also have flared rims that allow for the drip-free pouring of cooked stews, sauces, and soups.
The pan and pots are comfortable to use as many users pointed out. They come with sturdy ergonomic handles that are easy to grip and fit various hand sizes. The downside is that they do get hot like all other metal handles when left on the heat for long or placed in the oven.
There were no issues with clean up though with most users agreeing that the pieces clean up very easily when using a stainless steel cleaner.
Pros
- Fast, even heating with good heat retention
- Beveled walls to reduce burning and sticking chances
- Oven safe to 500F and ideal for induction cooking
- Sturdy, ergonomic handles that offer a comfortable grip
- Clean up easily and comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Food may stick if oil or butter is not used
- Discolors over time like all other stainless steel cookware
- Handles can get hot during long cooking sessions
9. Made In (Stainless Steel)
Made In is a family-owned company that focuses on the production of kitchenware products. It was founded by Chip and Jake who partnered with top raw material providers and manufacturers based in the U.S., Italy, and France to build superior kitchen products.
Their kitchenware products are used in countless top-rated restaurants as well as hotel groups across America due to their good quality, durability, and performance. Read our full Made in cookware reviews.
The staple product
Made In Cookware Frying Pan
- Solid construction with a good weight
- Quick, even heating and retains heat effectively
- The non-stick property seems to work fine
- Induction compatible and oven safe up to 800oF
- Long handle that stays cool and offers a nice grip
- Simple to clean and has a lifetime warranty
This Made In Best Seller Frying pan has earned many positive reviews from customers. The overall construction is solid and well balanced with good heft, but not inconveniently heavy.
It heats quickly and evenly according to many users who also mentioned that it does retain heat effectively.
The non-stick property of the cooking surface works great. It’s a slippery surface that requires only a minimal amount of oil.
A lot of users said it works great for frying eggs, even sunny side up eggs. However, some did mention that certain foods like meats can stick badly especially when cooking without oil.
The handle is long and has a nice grip feel. It does stay cool on stovetop and pan is well balanced in the hand for easy control. It’s induction compatible and oven safe up to 800F. it doesn’t take much effort to clean it based on users’ comments since food doesn’t stick often.
Pros
- Solid construction with a good weight
- Quick, even heating and retains heat effectively
- The non-stick property seems to work fine
- Induction compatible and oven safe up to 800F
- Long handle that stays cool and offers a nice grip
- Simple to clean and has a lifetime warranty
Cons
- May require the use of oil or butter for certain foods like meats
10. Proclamation Goods Company
The Proclamation Goods Company built its entire brand identity based around its own statement of intent; their proclamation. This mission statement prioritizes family, personal connections, and sustainable and environmentally friendly practices over profits.
As well as their manufacturing operation is based in the United States, this particular brand only sells one product so that they can give it 100% of their attention.
Proclamation only uses ethically sourced materials to make their pans, and even the metal is fully recyclable. There’s only one piece of plastic to be found in the whole packaging, which is extremely rare in this day and age.
The Staple Product
Proclamation Goods The Duo
The Proclamation Goods Company only sells one product, The Duo, which is a hybrid pan collection that can perform many tasks acting as different styles of pot or pan. There are stainless steel or carbon steel options; the stainless steel set is the more popular of the two.
This “set” consists of a 12” sidekick skillet, a 7-quart’ hybrid pot’, and a single lid that’s designed to fit both pans. However, these two transformer-like pans also do something very clever. Proclamation designed them to fit together to form a sizable dutch oven, one of the kitchen’s most versatile tools.
Machined from high-quality materials, The Duo has a tri-ply construction of two layers of 18/10 stainless steel and a commercial-grade 1050A aluminum core that helps with even heating. With a thickness of 2.5mm, this cookware strikes a nice balance between heat distribution and durability.
The Proclamation Duo is a highly versatile piece of kit made to a high standard. It performs exceedingly well, primarily when tasked with cooking large meals. However, its enormous size is a disadvantage as well as an advantage. Yes, the tremendous capacity is nice to have if you cook for a large family, but it becomes challenging to cook small portions without over-cooking. The vast length of the handles means that though the Dutch Oven is a very clever idea and a superb piece of engineering, it can be tricky to fit inside an oven.
Pros
- Sound business practices and environmentally friendly manufacturing are part of this company’s proclamation. It’s lovely to see a brand mix quality and high morals.
- This small cookware set is superbly engineered and works to perfection. These pots and pans will last a lifetime with a bit of care and attention.
- These pans don’t have pour spouts; instead, they have a non-drip pour rim that lets you pour your food out from any angle without dripping ingredients all over the kitchen.
- The low-stick interior is not quite as effective as traditional non-stick cookware. However, it still works to a decent standard but benefits from being toxin-free and not dangerous to your health.
- You can cook almost anything in the Proclamation Duo as it’s oven-safe up to 500F.
- Despite being massive, The Duo could be a space saver as it performs many tasks, eliminating the need for larger cookware sets. However, it might need a permanent countertop home rather than in a cupboard.
Cons
- Long handles make these pots and pans a challenge to fit in the oven.
- The enormous cooking surface makes it challenging to cook smaller portions. Not suitable for single-portion meals.
- You’ll struggle to wash this beast in a dishwasher. Not because it’s not recommended, but because it’s so darn big.
- It’s very heavy, especially when in its dutch oven form and full of food.
Cast Iron Cookware
1. Field Company
The Field Company was established by two brothers, Stephen and Chris Muscarella, who set out to restore and refurbish those old, reliable vintage cast iron cookware. The company offers several high quality cast iron skillets, cookware sets, and accessories.
The staple product
- Lighter but durable construction
- Heats up fast and evenly throughout
- Food rarely sticks on the cooking surface
- Suitable for induction cooktops
- Seasoning builds well with regular use
- Sturdy handles that offer a solid grip
- Lifetime support in case of any issues
This Field Cast Iron Cookware Set features five beautiful, well-built skillets that provide excellent cooking performance.
The first notable thing about them is that they are significantly lighter than traditional cast iron pans which makes them easier to wield. They are light enough for every day cooking yet sturdy enough to last for years.
They are also equipped with a heat ring that should help keep them stable on ceramic and glass top stoves. Several users claimed though that they only sit completely flat on glass top stove when cold but once heated, the middle bows out causing the pans to bounce around.
That said, a lot of users agreed that they are more responsive to heat than other modern cast iron pans. They have thin sidewalls and a slightly thicker bottom that heats up faster and evenly than the thicker pieces.
The area that stood out for most users is the nonstick property of the machined-smooth cooking surface. It has a very slick finish and comes pre-seasoned.
According to users, with little oil, nothing sticks to the surface – fried eggs, bacon and veggies slip and slide easily in the pans
Seasoning builds well too with these Field skillets compared to other brands as some folks pointed out. As you use them regularly, the cooking surface slowly develops durable, slick layers of seasoning which extend and enhance its nonstick properties.
The skillets have decently-sized handles that offer a solid grip and the fact that they are light in weight makes them easier to use. Cleaning them is as well a breeze. Any stuck bits of food comes right off with hot water and a smooth wipe with a rag.
Pros
- Lighter but durable construction
- Heats up fast and evenly throughout
- Food rarely sticks on the cooking surface
- Suitable for induction cooktops
- Seasoning builds well with regular use
- Sturdy handles that offer a solid grip
- Lifetime support in case of any issues
Cons
- Short return policy of only 45 days
- Might not sit completely flat on glass top once heated
2. Finex
Finex is one of the modern cast-iron cookware manufacturers in the US. The company was founded in 2012 and is based in Portland, Oregon.
What set’s them apart from the rest is the unique octagonal shape of their cookware products which facilitates easy pouring. Besides that, their cookware products are equipped spring handles which they claim to stay cool longer and offer better grip.
The staple product
Finex 4-Piece Cast Iron Cookware Set
- Distributes and retains heat well
- A smooth cooking surface that doesn’t stick
- Comes already pre-seasoned
- Hexagon shape offers multiple pouring options
- Easy-to-grip stainless steel spring handles
- Simple to clean and has a lifetime warranty
The Finex Family set features two robust skillets. They have very thick castings which are great for searing. They take a bit of time to heat up but the extra-thick base does a good job in distributing and retaining heat.
The cooking surface is smooth and pre-seasoned with organic flaxseed oil.
Several users mentioned that some foods like eggs and sausages tend to stick occasionally during the first few days of using the pans but after further seasoning and continuous use, they performed better.
Almost every user seemed to like the hexagon design of the skillets not just because it’s different but also the fact that it features 8 spouts that offer multiple pouring options.
The spring handles look nice and are easier grip. They are made from stainless steel, so they will get hot when on the stove for long or placed in the oven, but they are much cooler compared to a typical cast iron handle.
Unfortunately, while the spring cover remained cooler during cooking, a few users mentioned the end caps on the handles do get hot. There were also a few others who didn’t like how the spring felt on their hands.
Besides that, food, grease, and splashing liquids are very likely to end up into the spring and might be difficult to remove. Cleaning the other parts of the pan is pretty simple though especially when fully seasoned.
Pros
- Distributes and retains heat well
- A smooth cooking surface that doesn’t stick
- Comes already pre-seasoned
- Hexagon shape offers multiple pouring options
- Easy-to-grip stainless steel spring handles
- Simple to clean and has a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Handles might be hard to clean
- End caps on the handles do get hot
3. Lodge
Founded in 1896, Lorge is one of the oldest and probably the largest and most popular family-owned cast iron cookware manufacturers in America and the world right now.
All their cookware products are created through an age-old process known as sand molding. This is a process that has been around from 680 B.C. and still remains to be the best and most practical method of casting iron.
The staple product
The Lodge 5 Piece Wildlife set is robust in construction and every piece has a unique design cast on its bottom that portrays the most distinctive animals in America making them special and collectible pieces.
Edge-to-edge heat distribution is great on all three pieces each time you use them. They also retain heat well. Temperature doesn’t drop suddenly when you add your meat or fish for searing.
The three cookwares are preseasoned with natural vegetable oil. They’re ready to use right off the box and food doesn’t stick on the surface. The more you use them the better the seasoning and nonstick effect gets.
The skillet and the griddle feature Lodge’s iconic teardrop shape handles. They are quite thick and gently curved which makes them easier on the hands. They do get a little hot when on the heat for long but for standard cooking sessions, they stay cool.
The set includes a camp Dutch oven tool which is a nice addition that would come in handy for those who love camping. Clean up is not hard at all. Food rarely sticks and when it does, hot water and a little scrabbing clear it out.
Pros
- Great heat distribution and retention
- Pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil
- Provides better nonstick performance over time
- Skillet and griddles are suitable for induction cooktops
- All three cookware are over safe (temperature not specified)
- Sturdy, ergonomic handles that stay cool for most parts
Cons
- A bit heavy which may strain the wrists
- Handles may get hot during long cooking sessions
- We couldn’t find any information about the warranty
- LODGE WILDLIFE SERIES: Each unique piece in our seasoned cast iron Wildlife Series features one of America's most distinctive animals.
- SEASONED COOKWARE. A good seasoning makes all the difference. Lodge seasons its cookware with 100% vegetable oil; no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use your iron, the better the seasoning will get
- MADE IN THE USA. Lodge has been making cast iron cookware in South Pittsburg, Tennessee (pop. 3,300) since 1896. With over 120 years of experience, their cast iron is known for its high quality design, lifetime durability, and cooking versatility
4. Nest Homeware
Nest Homeware was founded in 2013 by Matt Cavallaro and it’s based in Providence, Rhode Island. It’s one of the latest companies in the industry and much like Finex, the brand focuses on both performance and beauty.
Their cast-iron cookware products have a lustrous bronzy hue finishing resulting from double seasoning with organic flaxseed oil. The other unique thing is their handles which are each designed to resemble a Cherry tree branch.
The staple product
- Heat relatively quick and the heat is distributed uniformly
- A machined smooth cooking surface that’s double seasoned
- Releases food easily and seasons well with every usage
- Suitable for use on all cooktops including oven and induction
- Handles are comfortable to hold and stay cool for long periods
The Nest Homeware Cast Iron Cookware Full Set is an eye-catching collection that’s functional, well-balanced, and no doubt uniquely different.
All pieces are sturdy and have thicker walls which makes them durable. Each piece has a reasonable heft that’s well balanced and not overwhelming.
The cooking surfaces of the cookwares are CNC machined smooth from the middle all the way to the sidewalls. They heat relatively quickly with the heat distributed uniformly.
The skillets also come lightly seasoned with organic flaxseed oil which gives them a natural non-stick surface. Users did mention that they release food easily from the onset and season well as you continue to use the skillets providing even better nonstick performance.
The walls are straight and low which is good as it makes the cooking surface large and maneuvering certain foods a bit easier. The downside with having these straight, low sides is that food is more likely to splatter while stirring and it equally makes pouring a little hard.
The cherry branch handles are very comfortable to hold. They have a gentle, graceful curve that users said felt nice and firm in their hands.
The handles are a bit longer too compared to most other cast iron handles which is great since your hand is not positioned close to the skillet plus the length allows them to stay cooler longer.
We couldn’t find any issue with cleaning the pieces. For stickier meals, running the skillets under hot water and using a cleaning agent like coarse salt will clear out all bits of food that are stuck.
Pros
- Heat relatively quick and the heat is distributed uniformly
- A machined smooth cooking surface that’s double seasoned
- Releases food easily and seasons well with every usage
- Suitable for use on all cooktops including oven and induction
- Handles are comfortable to hold and stay cool for long periods
Conss
- Sides walls are low and straight making pouring a little hard
- No available information on warranty from the manufacturer
5. Smithey Ironware (Cast Iron)
Smithey Ironware company was established in 2014 by Isaac Morton but came on the seen in 2015. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, the company utilizes both modern technology and classic style of vintage pieces to design and manufacture their cast iron cookware. The skillets are made using heavy gauge iron and they have a distinct glass-smooth surface.
The staple product
Smithey 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet
- Solid build quality
- Retains the heat pretty well
- A smooth interior that releases food easily
- Builds seasoning well with regular use
- Pouring spouts for drip-free pouring
- Comfortable handle that has a solid grip
The NO.12 Smithey cast iron skillet has a very solid build. It’s thick and heavy which is great for searing and roasting meats since it heats up evenly and retains the heat for long.
It’s also perfect for frying eggs. The cooking surface is polished and preseasoned with kosher organic grapeseed oil which gives it a satin-like effect that facilitates nonstick cooking.
Users said that it releases food easily and the nonstick property gets better as you continue to use the pan.
Aside from the smooth cooking surface, the skillet has gently sloping sides which makes flicking and sliding food easier. Pouring soup, sauces and stew have equally been made easy by the addition of two pour spouts on either side of the pan.
A lot of users found the handle to be comfortable. It’s flat and has the same texture as the exterior surface which has a good grip. However, several users found the handle to be a bit short which makes moving it around a little bit hard as it puts stress on the wrist. Same to almost all metal handles, this one too does tend to get hot if left on the heat for long.
Pros
- Solid build quality
- Retains the heat pretty well
- A smooth interior that releases food easily
- Builds seasoning well with regular use
- Pouring spouts for drip-free pouring
- Comfortable handle that has a solid grip
Cons
- The handle is a bit short and does get hot
Non-stick Cookware
1. American Kitchen Cookware (Non-Stick)
Like the 1919 Cookware, the American Kitchen Cookware is a subsidiary brand of Regal Ware. The company manufactures stainless steel cookware, cast aluminum cookware, and nonstick cookware.
Their nonstick cookware has a unique coating which is known as Eterna. It’s a special PFOA-free nonstick coating that provides a thicker film than a standard nonstick coating. It’s extra tough and more resistant to wear and tear. American Kitchen Cookware also claims that it’s ten times less adherent than common nonstick coatings.
The staple product
- Healthy & Easy Cooking Nonstick Coating: Our ultra-durable Eterna nonstick coating allows you to use fewer oils and fats, while still effortlessly sliding food from the cooking pan to plate. Say goodbye to stuck-on food and hello to hassle-free clean-up.
- Even Cooking Every Time: Experience perfectly cooked meals every time with our premium nonstick pan. Featuring a double-layered stainless steel construction wrapped around a premium aluminum core, our pan ensures even heat distribution and eliminates hot spots for uniform cooking.
- Detailed Design: Our performance handles stay-cool while on the stove and ensure a comfortable grip, making cooking an effortless and enjoyable experience. Our fry pan is designed to make cooking a breeze so you can focus on what matters most: making memories.
The three frying pans in this Perfect Fry-Fecta nonstick cookware set have thick tri-ply construction that’s sturdy and unlikely to warp. However, what users liked most are the great results they got in cooking with these pans.
Heat distribution is uniform throughout the cooking surface of each piece.
Users said that meat and vegetables came out evenly browned or fried when cooking at a lower or medium heat level.
They also noted that the nonstick performance of the pans was just as good as claimed by the manufacturer.
Most users mentioned that they were able to prepare eggs, bacon, and other sticky meals without needing to add extra butter or oil because the Eterna nonstick coating allows the cooking surface to release food easily.
Users found the pans to be only slightly heavy which makes them less stressing to use. The stainless steel handles are long, sturdy, and fit well in the hand providing good control and maneuverability.
They do stay cool at low to medium heat cooking according to the feedbacks from several users. But they are stainless steel handles, so chances are that they will get a bit hot when on the heat for long.
The pans clean up fine which is attributed to the easy-release property of the nonstick cooking surface. The exterior surface is magnetic stainless steel with a smooth finished base meaning that you can use the pans on any cooktop including glass and induction stovetops.
Pros
- Uniform heat distribution across all the pans
- Great nonstick performance – releases food easily
- Oven safe up to 400F and suitable for induction stovetops
- Long, sturdy handles that fit well in the hand and stay cool
- Simple clean and comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- The handles might get hot when left on the heat for long
- Not suitable for cooking at very high heat
2. Calphalon
Calphalon is one of the leading brands in the US cookware industry. The company has been around for more than 50 years and it’s actually the first cookware brand in America to use hard-anodized aluminum to create cookware.
This innovation makes their cookware products more durable, non-reactive, and resistant to both corrosion and warping. Besides that, Calphon has a great line of nonstick cookware that’s amongst the best available in the market today. They have three layers of nonstick coating that users say it’s truly strong and prevents sticking of food.
The staple product
- Included with set: 8-inch fry pan, 10-inch fry pan, 2.5-quart sauce pan with cover, 3.5-quart sauce pan with cover, 3-quart saute pan with cover, 6-quart stock pot with cover
- Stacks smaller and nests in any order, saving up to 30% more space
- Built to last, with 40% longer-lasting nonstick (vs. Calphalon Classic)
Calphalon Premier Nonstick cookware set has a heavy-duty aluminum construction that can hold up to everyday use for many years.
Although the thick, heavy construction is good for durability, several users pointed out that the pieces take a while to heat up. Once they heat up though, heat distribution is even throughout and they retain the heat well too.
The nonstick interior also appears to work fine going by what a majority of users said. The pans easily release foods without using oil but this only works for certain foods since a few users mentioned that bacon always sticks on the pans unless they use a little oil.
There were also some complaints that the nonstick coating scratches easily. Generally, as long as you don’t use metal utensils, the coating is tough enough to last for long.
The handles of this set do get hot especially the loop handles of the pots which users said that they get too hot to touch. However, the long handles of the pans aren’t too bad but they can get hot as well when left on the heat for extended periods.
Another issue we noted is the lids. The handles are on the side rather than on the top. A lot of users found this design to be a little inconvenient and awkward to hold especially when you want to do a quick stir or add some flavor in the pot.
With said, almost everyone found the space-saving design convenient in terms of storage and that it did save some space, and as well helped keep the set in order.
Pros
- Even heat distribution and retention
- Nonstick coating works fine for most foods
- Safe for oven use up to 450oF
- Stackable design provides easy storage
- Clean up is simple and comes with a full lifetime warranty
Cons
- May take a while to heat up
- Not compatible with induction cooktops
- Handles get too hot to touch
- Lids design may be a little inconvenient for some
3. Made In (Non-Stick)
Although Made In focuses on producing stainless steel and carbon steel cookware products, the company also has a collection of nonstick cookware that performs relatively well.
Their nonstick pans have a special nonstick cooking surface known as Made SlickTM which is a triple cured nonstick surface that the company claims to be really slippery and perfect for difficult foods that stick often like eggs and delicate fish. They also claim that it 10X durable compared to competitor’s nonstick surfaces.
The staple product
Made In Nonstick Cookware Set
Built for morning meals, midnight snacks, and everything in between, our Non Stick Cookware Set has every course covered. Made in the USA, this 7-Piece Set features a double layer of high-performing PTFE, and our Award-Winning Stainless Clad construction.
Made In’s Sous Chef set is a good quality nonstick cookware set that has received a lot of praise from satisfied shoppers.
The pots and pans feature a 5-ply construction that users say felt solid. They also found the pans to be well balanced in the hand and had good heft.
The pieces respond quickly to heat change. They heat quickly, distribute heat evenly, and retain the heat longer.
There were hardly any issues with regards to food sticking.
A majority of those who have used the set stated that the cooking surface of the nonstick pan is quite slippery. You can make eggs, sunny side up, or omelets at low heat without using any oil or butter.
All the pans have flared rims and sloped walls which make sliding food onto a plate easy. The downside though is that the sloped sidewalls are too shallow hence it’s also easier to spill food during cooking.
The handles are solid and have a good grip feel. Their bottom side has a small bump that prevents your hand from sliding. They do stay cool on stovetop use but get very hot when in the oven. Some users, however, said that they are longer and more industrial for their taste.
Overall, one thing we found unique about this Sous Chef set is Made In’s decision to include three frying pans made from different materials. The set comes with 10″ nonstick frying pan, 10″ stainless steel clad frying pan and a 12″ carbon steel frying pan. In other words, it’s the most dynamic cookware set featured on our list.
Pros
- Quick, even heating and retain the heat longer
- Nonstick pan releases food easily
- All pieces are suitable for induction stovetops
- Nonstick pan is oven safe to 500oF
- Stainless clad pan is oven safe to 800oF
- Handles offer a firm grip and do stay cool
- Both pots and pans are easy to clean
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Sidewalls of the pans are too shallow
- The pots can develop rainbow stain easily
Copper Cookware
1. Brooklyn Copper Cookware (BCC)
Brooklyn Copper Cookware started in 2009 and since then, the company has released a variety of quality copper cookware in the market. They make their copper cookware the old-fashioned way.
All their cookware products are manufactured using three components, copper, tin, and iron. They use non-reactive laboratory-grade tin to line their cookware, instead of stainless steel. Everything is unalloyed and organic hence doesn’t compromise the safety and health of your meals.
The staple product
- Heats quickly, evenly and maintains the heat
- A non-reactive and nonstick pure tin lining
- Sturdy side handles with ear design for easy lifting
- Safe for use in the oven but up to 450oF
- Very easy to clean
This 10 Quart BCC casserole with flat cover is no doubt very attractive with its copper shine finish. Its quality and performance are equally as good as its visual appeal.
It heats quickly, evenly, and does maintain the heat a little while that other thinner copper cookware. This responsiveness is very useful for gentle, slow stewing and braising.
The tin-lined cooking surface is totally inert hence won’t react with acids from food that you would cook on it.
More importantly, tin is remarkably nonstick all on its own. It does not require seasoning like the case of cast iron nonstick surfaces. Therefore, you can prepare all kinds of food on this pot and, most often, they won’t stick.
The problem though is that tin melts at low temperatures of around 450oF which the casserole can quickly attain when left on a flame unattended and empty. This means you must always place food in it before turning on the flame plus you can’t use it for very high-heat searing.
BCC has fitted the pot with two cast iron handles which are a treat, partly because they are unusual. They are quite sturdy and have an ear design that facilitates easy lifting. Since cast iron is a poor heat conductor, the handles will stay cool during cooking.
The casserole comes with a flat cover made using the same pure metal ingredients. What’s interesting about it is the long stang handle it has. It not only provides a simple way of lifting the lid but also stays cool on the stovetop due to its good length.
Cleaning the unit is a breeze. However, tin is somewhat soft, so using abrasive cleaning materials will certainly damage it.
Pros
- Heats quickly, evenly and maintains the heat
- A non-reactive and nonstick pure tin lining
- Sturdy side handles with ear design for easy lifting
- Safe for use in the oven but up to 450F
- Very easy to clean
Cons
- The tin lining will melt if heated above 450F
- Not suitable for use with induction cooktops
- Will need re-tinning as the tin lining wears away over time
2. Duparquet Copper Cookware
Duparquet Copper Cookware was founded by Jim Hamann after being inspired by the quality and authenticity of hand-crafted vintage copper cookware which most of their current counterparts couldn’t compare.
Located in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, Duparquet cookwares are hand-crafted through spinning copper on a lathe to generate the perfect shape and thickness. The interior of each piece is hand-lined with tin. The company also offers copper cookware products that feature silver lining, instead of tin.
The staple product
- Thick, sturdy construction
- Fast, even heating across the entire pan
- Reliable nonstick performance
- Oven safe up to 450oF
- The handle is firmly riveted and stays cool
- Flat lid with a long stang handle that stays cool
- Cleans up easily and comes with a lifetime warranty
The Duparquet 11.25” Sauté pan with tin lining is almost similar to the BCC Casserole above in that it’s designed to provide both aesthetic appeal and great cooking performance.
It has excellent heat conductivity. It heats up quickly and the heat is spread throughout the pan. There are no hot spots, hence the food cooks evenly.
The interior tin lining is inherently nonstick. You can fry eggs, bacon, omelets, and prepare pancakes with this pan without adding oil and nothing will stick for the most part.
Just like the BCC Casserole though, the tin lining will melt if overheated (above 450oF). You also can’t preheat or do other “dry heat” tasks with this pan as it will damage the sensitive tin lining.
The handle is very long compared to most ordinary sauté pans and has a rough texture that provides a stable grip. It’s made from cast iron which combined with the long length enables it to stay cooler longer than other metals while cooking.
Another notable thing is that Duparquet has used oversized rivets to attach the handle to the pan. Therefore, it’s firmly secured to the pan and will not loosen over time, unlike small rivets which tend to loosen easily especially if often shake the pan when cooking.
Included in the package is a flat copper lid which equally features a long cast iron stang handle that stays cool. As for cleaning the pan, you won’t have much difficulty. It cleans up easily but again using any abrasive material on it will wear out the tin lining.
Pros
- Thick, sturdy construction
- Fast, even heating across the entire pan
- Reliable nonstick performance
- Oven safe up to 450oF
- The handle is firmly riveted and stays cool
- Flat lid with a long stang handle that stays cool
- Cleans up easily and comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t work with induction stovetops
- Not suitable for high heat cooking
- The tin lining can easily get damaged by abrasive materials
Aluminum Cookware
1. Nordic Ware
Nordic Ware is a family-run company that has been producing quality kitchenware products since 1946. Their most iconic product is the Bundt pan which was manufactured in the 1950s. It’s one of their top-selling cookware with millions of users around the world.
Besides the Bundt cake pan, the company has an extensive line of kitchenware products that are made using cast aluminum. Their products have earned a lot of positive reviews from customers for their thick, durable construction and cooking performance too.
The staple product
- 10-inch open skillet, 1-1/2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, and 8-quart stockpot with lid
- Restaurant-quality, pressure-cast aluminum; nonstick interior with dark finish
- Concave bottoms resist warping; stay-cool riveted handles and removable comfort grips
This Nordic Ware 7 Piece Cookware Set is a nice working set of pans and pots that’s affordable for almost everyone.
Every piece consists of six-gauge pressure-cast aluminum construction that users found to be pretty durable.
The open skillet has a concave bottom which is meant to prevent warping but we noted some complaints that it did warp slightly causing it not to sit completely flat on the stovetop.
When it comes to performance though, users seemed to agree that the set excelled at all cooking tasks whether it’s browning, simmering, or cooking scrambled eggs.
They take a while to heat up but the heat is spread uniformly and retained well that food cooks evenly every time.
The cooking surface has Teflon nonstick coating that’s slick and users said it releases food effortlessly. Eggs and pancakes don’t stick to the pan which makes cleaning easy. The coating is thick and will not peel off over time as most users reported.
The handles have a rough texture and silicon covering that provides a secure grip when cooking or transporting. They do stay cool over the stovetop except for the stock pot lid handles which users said it does get hot.
The rubber covering is also likely to melt when placed in the oven. However, they can be removed for oven use. Several users mentioned that the stock pot lid is a little thin and doesn’t fit properly. It leaves gaps making it hard to retain heat and moisture.
Pros
- Heat is spread evenly, no hot spots
- Cooks food properly without sticking
- Nonstick coating is thick and durable
- Handles offer a secure grip
- Oven safe up to 400oF
- Cleans easily by hand
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Stock pot lid doesn’t fit properly
- The skillet is likely to warp
- Stock pot handles get hot
- Not ideal for induction stovetops
Why Buy American-Made Cookware?
Cookware that’s made in countries other than America doesn’t make it a poor product by default. In fact, some of the best cookware brands in the world come from places like Italy, France, Belgium.
However, there are many reasons why buying cookware designed and manufactured in the USA is an excellent idea, and not one of them is due to jingoistic nationalism.
Quality Cookware
While being made in the USA doesn’t automatically guarantee a quality product (always research the brand you’re considering buying), the more high-end American cookware brands offer extremely robust pots and pans that are built with everyday use in mind.
Sure, Americans don’t have the culinary finesse of the Italians or French, but they do so love to cook. This passion and knowledge for cooking give American cookware brands the edge for producing products for the everyman.
Americans have an affinity for metalwork, machinery, and tools, which ensures their quality cookware (especially stainless steel pots and pans) is robust and durable, so you won’t have to replace your cookware for a very long time, if ever.
American-made cookware is designed with Americans in mind and is the perfect choice for American culture and cooking.
Supporting Local Businesses & American Brands
The importance of supporting local trade can not be overstated, especially in the current economic climate.
Every time you buy (as an American) products manufactured in the USA, you’re putting dollars in the pockets of your countryman, which in turn will be plowed back into the economy.
Sure, foreign cookware can be a lot more affordable (or ridiculously expensive in some cases), but much of that money will be used to strengthen other economies. If American businesses thrive, there’ll be more job opportunities, higher wages, and a better quality of life all around.
Even more important than solely supporting American-only businesses is supporting American independent manufacturers. The money that comes from the sale of cookware made by small family-run American companies goes not only into investing in local trades but into the pockets of people putting food on the table for their families rather than into the bank accounts of wealthy CEOs and investors.
More Environmentally Friendly
While America still has some way to go in terms of dealing with climate change, cookware that’s made in America will be more eco-friendly than products made in China or other such places with poor sustainability records.
That said, there is still much work to be done in America, but the more investment that is made in American business, the more opportunities for improvement.
Ethical Labor Standards
There is much debate about how high the minimum wage should be in America. Still, US businesses and companies are bound by the laws of the land to follow wage structures, health, and safety practices and take care of their employees’ well-being.
By purchasing American-made cookware, you’re safe in the knowledge that you’re not supporting unethical businesses that utilize child workers and make people work in inhuman conditions.
Is American-Made Cookware Worth The Cost?
Though US-designed cookware isn’t the most premium cookware on the market, American stainless steel pots and pans, in particular, are right up there on the global quality scale.
If you’ve never bought premium cookware before, you might scoff at the incredible price jump between cheaper (usually non-stick) cookware and stainless steel cookware from the likes of Made-In, All-Clad, and Cuisinart, but cookware from these brands will last decades (possible even a lifetime) while cheap pots and pans will need replacing every 12 months.
Cookware produced in the USA usually comes with a higher price point because American brands are held to a higher working standard than some other nations. But if supporting local communities and trades and taking care of the environment is important to you, then paying those extra few bucks is more than worth it.
From a culinary perspective, if you can afford the large initial outlay, expensive American-made cookware will not only save you money in the long run (imagine never having to spend money on pans again). They will also give you better performance and be healthier than cheap, imported cookware sets.
Thanks for the information. I do try to support USA businesses.