Buyer's Guide Cookware Gas Stove Cookware

Best Cookware for Gas Stoves: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide for 2022 and Leading Products

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Cooking food on a gas stove is much different compared to cooking on a glass range or traditional electric stove. This is because a gas stove tends to heat up much faster in comparison and the heat isn’t spread uniformly over the bottom of the cookware.

This is why you need to use the best cookware for gas stoves. Technically speaking, any type of cookware can be used on a gas range, however, there are certain types that tend to perform better than others. If you’re looking for a more efficient way to cook on your gas range, then my in-depth buyer’s guide and product recommendations will guide you down the path to finding the perfect cookware for your range and cooking needs.

The comparison chart below will go over each of the pieces of cookware that have made it onto my stop six list while listing the best features and other important information that you’ll need to know in order to make an informed decision.

Cookware for Gas Stoves Comparison Chart

ProductMaterialCoatingPiecesRating
HexClad Hybrid Cookware
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Stainless
Steel/Aluminum
PFOA-Free Coating7
Rachael Ray 87641
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Hard Anodized
Aluminum
Aluminum12
Cuisinart MCP-12N Set
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Stainless
Steel/Aluminum
None12
OXO CC002665-001 Wok
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Hard Anodized
Aluminum
PFOA-Free Coating1
VonShef Sauté Pan
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Hard Anodized
Aluminum
Aluminum2
Vremi Saute Pan
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AluminumPFOA-Free Coating2

Must-Have Sets that are Gas Stove Compatible

For some, purchasing an entire new set of cookware may seem like overkill, but if you just purchased a new gas stove or you’re tired of looking at your damaged warped cookware, then upgrading to cookware that’s specifically designed to handle higher temperatures is exactly what you need.

If you’re ready to go all in and purchase a whole new set that’s compatible with your range, then take a look at the large sets I’ve reviewed below. These sets come with many extras but also include pots and pans that you will rely on regularly, whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting the next dinner party.

HexClad Hybrid Non-Stick Cookware


Our Rating: (5/5)

This hybrid cookware set comes with seven pieces and is created via a laser etching process that provides a nonstick surface and a durable stainless steel construction. This type of dual-surface will allow you to use less butter, grease, or oil, while searing or browning foods.

The durable pans consist of a layer of stainless steel for a sturdy exterior, with an aluminum core, which improves heating efficiency and even heating through the surface of the pan. The last layer sandwiches the aluminum with an additional layer of stainless steel that has been treated with a nonstick coating designed to prevent food from sticking.

The nonstick coating is PFOA-free and allows you to cook foods using temperatures up to five hundred degrees. The cookware is so tough you can use metal utensils when cooking and steel wool pads when washing. It can also be placed in your dishwasher, making this cookware very low maintenance.

This set comes with:

  • Twelve-inch pan
  • Ten-inch pad
  • Eight-inch pan
  • Twelve-inch wok
  • Three lids

Pros

  • Includes essential pieces of cookware, with no cheap extras
  • Durable design
  • Heat efficient
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Plastic sealing rings on lids can melt at higher temperatures
  • Must use oil to prevent sticking

Conclusion

While the manufacturer claims that this cookware set is nonstick, many buyers will beg to differ, stating that you must use butter or oil to prevent sticking, otherwise you’ll need to use plenty of elbow grease to wash these pots and pans. Aside from the sticking issue, the plastic seal ring in the lids can melt if exposed to temperatures over four hundred degrees.

This is still an excellent cookware set, one that will work well for any gas stove, but they do not possess the type of nonstick surface that the manufacturer claims they do. With this in mind, the set is still durable, does an excellent job of conducting and retaining heat, and features the type of durable design that ensures these pots and pans last year after year.

Rachael Ray 87641 Cucina Cookware


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This hard-anodized aluminum cookware set by Rachael Ray heats evenly, quickly, and features an aluminum nonstick surface that’s designed to prevent food from sticking, making cleanup a breeze. The silicone covered stainless steel handles are dual riveted for improved durability.

The lids are made out of shatter-resistant glass complete with stainless steel rims. Aside from the pots and pans, the set also includes a spoon and a flexible slotted spatula. This cookware is oven-safe and can handle temperatures up to four hundred degrees.

Inside this package, you’ll find:

  • One quart pan
  • Three-quart saucepan
  • Six-quart stockpot
  • Eight and a half-inch skillet
  • Ten-inch skillet
  • Three-quart sauté pan
  • Spoon and spatula
  • Three lids

Pros

  • Dishwasher safe
  • Oven safe
  • Excellent quality nonstick surface
  • Silicone covered stainless steel handles

Cons

  • Bottoms of pots and pans scratch easily

Conclusion

The Rachael Ray cookware line has been a best-seller for the past several years and has quickly gained a reputation for durability and ease of use.

This set is versatile, low maintenance, and built tough. It comes with many pieces that you’ll find yourself cooking with daily. The hard-anodized construction makes the set perfect for gas stove use since the material will not warp or become discolored when exposed to open flame cooking.

Cuisinart MCP-12N Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This stainless steel cookware set is oven safe and can handle temperatures up to five hundred and fifty degrees. The rims of each pot and pan are flared, so pouring without spilling is a cinch. The stay-cool handles will remain cool to the touch, even when cooking at higher temperatures. Inside these pots and pans, you’ll find a core of aluminum, which is designed to improve heating efficiency, while promoting even cooking and ensuring max heat retention.

The addition of an aluminum core will also eliminate hot spots from developing as you cook. This set is also dishwasher safe, which is a huge selling point for any cook who doesn’t want to waste time in the kitchen scrubbing pots and pans.

This set includes the following pieces:

  • One a half-quart saucepan
  • Three-quart saucepan
  • Eight-inch skillet
  • Ten-inch skillet
  • Three and a half-quart sauté pan
  • Eight-quart stockpot
  • Steamer insert
  • Four lids

Pros

  • Steamer insert
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Durable stainless steel construction
  • Cooks food evenly
  • Flared rims

Cons

  • Does not have a nonstick surface so you will need to coat the bottom of the pan with oil to prevent food from sticking

Conclusion

This aluminum core stainless steel cookware set comes with all the pots and pans you’ll need to prepare a large meal for the family. The big drawback is the lack of a nonstick cooking surface, which means you must coat the bottom of the pot or pan to prevent food from sticking. Overall, this is a durable cookware set that offers a faster heat-up time, improved heat retention, and ensures your food is cooked evenly and to perfection.

Woks

Many people aren’t aware of just how versatile these pans are, but once they’ve tried cooking in a wok, they quickly fall in love with its large bottom and high walls, and the fact that this pan can handle cooking with liquids, searing and browning foods, and so much more.

OXO CC002665-001 Wok


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

Woks in general are very versatile pieces of cookware that you can use to sauté, brown, sear, cook liquids, make stir fry, and more. This latest model from OXO is one of their best-sellers for several reasons. The large bowl-shaped design allows you to easily mix and toss food by pushing it against the inward-sloping walls. It’s made out of hard-anodized aluminum, which is scratch-resistant and ensures even cooking and proper heat conduction.

The pan comes equipped with a PFOA-free nonstick coating, which will prevent food from sticking while making cleanup a breeze. The handle is made out of cast steel and silicone, for a handle that’s heat-resistant and warp-resistant. The addition of the silicone on the handle makes it more comfortable to grip and easier to lift the pan, even when it’s full. The wok is also oven safe and can handle temperatures up to three hundred and ninety degrees.

Pros

  • Stay cool handle
  • PFOA-free nonstick coating
  • Durable
  • Scratch-resistant

Cons

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Lower heat tolerance compared to competing models

Conclusion

This large, hard anodized wok is low-maintenance, versatile, and perfect for cooking a wide range of dishes. The nonstick cooking surface allows you to cook your favorite foods without the use of oils or butter, which is a huge plus for any buyer who enjoys cooking light. This pan is a great buy if you need a large capacity pan that can handle searing, browning, sautéing, and more.

Sauté Pans

Sauté pans are commonly found in most kitchens and should have a durable construction that’s able to handle daily use. These pans allow you to cook a large volume of foods ranging from liquids to meats and veggies. Obviously, the specialize in sautéing, but they can also handle browning and searing.

VonShef Hard Anodized Sauté Pan


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

The pan’s durable hard-anodized aluminum construction ensures the pan lasts year after year, even with daily use. The interior of the pan is also made up of anodized aluminum, which is a nonstick material. The ergonomic handle is attached via stainless steel rivets, for improved durability.

The pan also comes with a lid made out of tempered glass, which will lock in moisture and allow you to keep an eye on cooking progress, without having to remove the lid. The vents in the lid will prevent liquids from boiling over. The pan is oven safe and able to withstand temperatures up to five hundred degrees. The pan itself has a three-quart capacity.

Pros

  • Includes tempered glass lid
  • Steel riveted handle
  • Nonstick cooking surface
  • Durable design
  • Ergonomic handle

Cons

  • The lid can begin to hold water over time

Conclusion

This large capacity sauté pan can handle it all. The included tempered glass lid complete with built-in vents will allow you to cook liquids covered without the fear of the contents of the pan over boiling, while the interior nonstick surface will prevent food from sticking.

The hard-anodized construction not only improves the pan’s durability, but also heat conductivity. A great buy if you’re looking for a sauté pan that’s built tough and available at a reasonable price.

Vremi 12 Inch Nonstick Sauté Pan


Our Rating: (4/5)

This sauté pan has a five-quart capacity, which is pretty impressive. It features a rounded design with high sides and is large enough to cook a big meal for the whole family. The tempered glass lid allows you to closely monitor your food as it cooks, without lifting the lid.

The interior comes with a PFOA-free nonstick coating, while the pan itself is made out of durable aluminum. The ergonomic handles are heat-resistant and comfortable to hold. This pan is not oven safe and should not be used for temperatures over four hundred degrees. Because of the delicate nonstick coating, you should avoid using metal utensils and abrasive scrubbers and cleansers.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Ergonomic stay cool handles
  • Tempered glass lid
  • Large capacity

Cons

  • Handwash only
  • Not oven safe
  • Must avoid using metal utensils

Conclusion

This pan may not be the most durable in my lineup, but it comes with a solid construction that’s designed to handle cooking on a gas stovetop. It’s not oven safe or dishwasher safe, which may be a drawback for some buyers. However, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a sauté pan of this quality available for such a low price.

Cookware for Gas Stoves Buyer’s Guide

A gas stove is definitely more durable compared to electric ranges. Well-built, rugged, and large, these stovetops are designed for heavy daily use. But despite its durability, you still need to keep your stove clean and properly maintained.

This includes using the right type of cookware. While you can use any type of cookware on a gas stove, there are certain types of materials that are a better match for cooking over an open flame. Many cooks prefer to use a gas stove over an electric for several reasons. First off, it’s very easy to adjust the heat, giving the user more control over cooking temperatures.

You can turn on and shut off the heat source immediately with a gas stove, while an electric range can take time to heat up and cool down. Cooking with gas is also cheaper compared to cooking with electricity.

When it comes to cookware, you can use any type on a gas range, including woks, stockpots, and saucepans. However, the flame doesn’t naturally distribute heat uniformly. There are some parts of a pot that will have more contact when a stronger flame is used, but on a low setting, the heat can be very concentrated. Because of this, using cookware that can handle these variations in heat is very important.

When you’re cooking on a gas stovetop, there are certain materials to look for that are able to handle the uneven heat of the flame, not to mention the fast-changing temperatures.

For a gas stove, the cookware should be able to quickly adapt to changes in temperature and evenly distribute concentrated heat that fluctuates.

Materials

For a gas stovetop, there is a certain combination of materials that can meet all of the stove’s criteria.

Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, non-reactive, and durable. Yet, it’s not the best at conducting heat. This is why using stainless steel cookware that’s clad or layered with another type of material that’s designed to conduct heat better, such as copper or aluminum, is a great choice. When this material is clad with either aluminum or copper, it creates cookware that offers better than average heating capabilities.

Anodized Aluminum

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Aluminum is a type of material that does an excellent job of both distributing and conducting heat, which is what makes it perfect for gas stoves. This material is lightweight and soft, which makes it prone to warping when used on high heat.

It’s also very reactive to acidic foods and easily scratched. Aluminum is often anodized because of this. This includes using an electrochemical process that results in a change of the surface chemistry of a metal.

With aluminum, it will build up its oxide coating in order to produce a harder surface that’s able to withstand higher temperatures without warping and is generally more durable and not as prone to scratches and makes the cooking surface nonstick. However, this type of material requires more cleanup. In order to avoid damaging the coating, it must be washed by hand using a mild cleanser and a nonabrasive sponge.

Copper

Similar to aluminum, copper also does an excellent job of evenly distributing and conducting heat. But just like aluminum it’s also prone to scratches and is also reactive to acidic foods. A piece of pure copper cookware is beautiful, however, it tends to change colors and can even have an impact on how your food tastes since it’s reactive to acidic foods. In order to prevent this, the cookware is often lined with a type of nonreactive material such as tin or steel.

Cast Iron

This type of material is a good choice for specific foods such as cooking steak and eggs. It does conduct heat well and evenly, but it does take quite a while to heat up. It’s not as responsive to changes in temperature as aluminum and copper, takes a long time to cool down, and is very heavy to move on the stove. While it’s a great piece of cookware to use for specific types of foods, such as meats, it does not make for a very versatile piece of cookware.

Carbon Steel

This material is a lightweight alternative to using cast iron. While it’s more responsive to temperature changes compared to cast iron, it’s not as good as copper and aluminum and is also prone to hot spots which are areas on the cooking surface that are hotter than others.

This can prevent food from cooking evenly. It’s also susceptible to corrosion, is reactive and must be seasoned. Cooks only recommend using carbon steel for specific dishes that will benefit from its ability to retain heat.

Ceramic

Ceramic is commonly used as a nonstick coating in cookware. However, ceramic is not very durable. The sensitive ceramic coating can also become damaged when used at higher temperatures.

Bottom line, a combination of materials such as aluminum and stainless steel, provide the necessary features needed for improved cooking efficiency on a gas stove. Stainless steel and aluminum are considered one of the best combinations of materials for gas stove use. The stainless steel provides a versatile cooking surface and adds to the durability of the cookware, while the aluminum material improves heat conductivity.

Best Nonstick Cookware for Gas Stoves

Finding nonstick cookware that’s compatible with gas stoves is a big deal for any cook who doesn’t want to spend time stuck in the kitchen soaking and scrubbing their cookware to get rid of burnt-on food. Most cooks recommend purchasing pots and pans that are equipped with ceramic since it does a great job of conducting heat.

Others may recommend Teflon nonstick surfaces, however, this popular coating has its limitations and cannot be cooked over higher temperatures. If Teflon overheats it can emit toxic fumes that can be harmful to humans and pets, especially birds.

Aside from ceramic, a hard-anodized aluminum-coated nonstick pan is a great alternative for gas stoves, but if you want to go with a traditional nonstick cooking material, make sure that it’s PTFE-free.

Size

Aside from the type of materials used in the right cookware for a gas stove, there are other important specs that you’ll want to pay attention to, such as the size of the cookware. How many people do you normally cook for?

Do you often find yourself hosting dinner parties throughout the year? The answer to these questions can help you choose the right size for your new pot or pan so you can cook smaller or larger portions in one shot.

Sets

If you’re not searching for a new frying pan or saucepan, and instead, you want to upgrade your old pots and pans and switch to a set that’s more compatible with a gas stovetop, then pay attention to how many pots and pans come in a set.

Don’t simply look at how many pieces come in a set, since this will include handles, utensils, lids, strainers, and other extras. Many larger sets come with a variety of extras and accessories. So, pay attention to how many pots and pans come in the set, in order to get the most bang for your buck.

Best Pots and Pans

You don’t have to buy an entire set of cookware in one shot. Many cooks prefer to buy pots and pans separately and create their own set over time. Not only is this a more affordable option, but it also ensures that you purchase pots and pans that you will actually find yourself using often.

In a set, you may end up with several pieces of cookware and utensils that you have no use for. So, if you’re on a tight budget and want to get essential pieces of cookware that you’ll rely on daily, then buying one piece at a time is definitely the way to go.

Melt-Proof Handles

Because it can be tricky to manage the flame at times, those new to cooking on a gas stove often make the mistake of burning the handles on pots and pans because they’re using a smaller pot or pan on a large burner. I recommend purchasing new cookware that comes with handles that are durable and not prone to melting.

Look for stainless steel stay-cool handles. These handles will not heat up and you won’t have to worry about damaging the handles on your new cookware set, your first day using them.

Lids

Most pots and pans will come with their own lid. The type and style of lid you need will depend on personal preference. Some cooks prefer lids that are made out of stainless steel, since they’re more durable, while others will want tempered glass lids since this allows them to keep an eye on the progress of your food, without removing the lid.

Warranty

With any cookware set, the length of the warranty will matter. Cookware should last for several years if taken care of properly. Check out the warranty that comes with your pot, pan, or cookware set. In some cases, some manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty. On average, you’ll come across two to five-year warranties.

Colored Cookware

Using colored cookware on a gas stove is not recommended since the higher heat and flame contact can cause the pots and pans to become discolored. This type of cookware is best-suited for electric stovetops where the bottom and sides will not be exposed to an open flame.

Is Stainless Steel the Best Option?

Stainless steel is a great choice since it’s very durable, but a combination of stainless steel and aluminum is a better option since the aluminum will improve the cookware’s ability to heat up faster and evenly. Additionally, straight stainless steel can be difficult to use at times, since it does not have a coated cooking surface, leaving it more susceptible to burning foods, hot spots, and food sticking to the surface.

Induction Stove Use

Since induction cookware is typically made out of steel, you can use it on a gas range. However, there are some types of induction cookware that are made out of thinner steel, which can make them prone to warping when higher temperatures are used.

Maintenance

Most gas stove approved cookware is relatively low maintenance and dishwasher safe. If you choose copper or aluminum cookware, then you’ll need to wash and dry them by hand. Steel cookware is considered more durable and dishwasher safe, as is most aluminum and stainless steel combination cookware. If you’re looking for more durable cookware that’s low maintenance, then you’ll want to avoid bare copper and aluminum pots and pans.

Other Buying Tips

  • If you’re cooking for your family after a long day at the office, then you probably don’t want to sit around waiting for the cookware to reach the right temperature. In order to speed up the heat-up time and cooking times, you want cookware that offers excellent heat conductivity.
  • If you’ve ever cooked using a pot or pan that heats up unevenly, then you know how difficult it can be to cook delicate foods properly. Since the gas stove’s heating pattern is condensed, you need to use cookware that has the ability to spread the heat evenly across the entire cooking surface.
  • A cook will tell you that you also need to use cookware that’s able to react to the changes in temperatures quickly. A pot or pan that doesn’t react quickly can result in food that’s undercooked or overcooked.

Final Thoughts

The best cookware for gas stoves should make full contact with the burner, be able to withstand high temperatures and should not consist of colored material that is prone to discoloration. The pots and pans in my lineup are made out of hardy materials that are able to withstand cooking over an open flame, without causing warping or discoloration.

Many also come with a type of nonstick surface that will allow you to cook a wide range of delicate dishes without the food sticking to the cooking surface. If you’ve never cooked on a gas stove or you’re tired of your set of warped, discolored cookware, then this guide will teach you about the features you need to look for in your next cookware set and one that can provide a faster heat-up time and even cooking.

Originally posted 2020-02-21 12:07:16.