Are you worried about nonstick coatings on your pans such as Teflon? That the harmful chemicals will leak into your food? There’s no need to worry about this if you opt for ceramic pots and pans.
A ceramic cookware set will ensure that you are cooking healthily for yourself and your family. A ceramic pan will not react with your food. They provide great nonstick coatings and are easy to clean.
Here we’ll tell you everything you need to know about ceramic cookware. You’ll learn what it’s made of, and what you need to look out for in choosing the best ceramic cookware set.
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Home Kitchen Land earns a commission through the following independently chosen links at no additional cost to you.Is Ceramic Cookware Reliable?
Yes, we think so.
First, a ceramic frying pan is PTFE and PFOA-free. And for the most part, it doesn’t contain any heavy metals, such as lead or cadmium, either. In other words, free from harmful chemicals that could leak if you overheat (1).
Instead, ceramic nonstick cookware is made of a metal base, such as aluminum, combined with a sol-gel coating. This coating exhibits the strength of silica, with a smooth, durable nonstick surface. So you’ll keep your cooking healthier by not using oils or fats.
Second, since it’s nonstick food it releases easily and is easy to clean.
Finally, you won’t have to worry about your ceramic frying pan ruining the taste of your food. Ceramic cookware is non-reactive. So ingredients won’t react with the coating or come into contact with the metal underneath.
Related Reading:
- 13 Benefits And Disadvantages Of Cooking With Ceramic Cookware
- Is Ceramic Non Stick Cookware Safe?
- Ceramic Vs. Teflon Cookware: What’s The Difference?
Different Types of Ceramic Cookware
Let’s look at the different types of ceramic cookware: 100% ceramic and ceramic coated.
100% Ceramic Cookware
Pure, 100% ceramic cookware is entirely natural. It’s made from sand, clay, or quartz. And it has no metal core (2). So it contains no metals and no harmful chemicals.
Xtrema is the only US brand that makes 100% solid ceramic cookware. You can see one of their sets here: 4 Piece Black Versa 100% Ceramic Cookware Set. They fire their ceramic cookware in a kiln at very high temperatures – 2,500°F. Xtrema then adds a food-safe glaze.
Two French producers also make 100% ceramic pans, as well as casserole and tagine pots, and fondue sets.
Pros
- Food tastes as it should – the cooking surface doesn’t change it
- Resistant to stains and scratching
- Able to withstand very high temperatures.
Cons
- Hard to come by – only 1 US brand makes it.
Ceramic Coated Cookware
Ceramic coated cookware is made of another material and then coated with ceramic. A metal like aluminum, cast iron, or stainless steel normally provides the core material of the pot or pan.
The ceramic coatings are not 100% pure or ceramic. They’re called “Sol-gel” and are compounds of silica or sand and other inorganic chemicals (3). The organic solution turns into a gel during manufacturing. This gel is then bonded to the surface of a metal using high temperatures – a process called “curing”.
So this cookware has a ceramic coating for its cooking surface. This ceramic-coated aluminum (or other metal) makes a great nonstick cookware product. And they’re PTFE-free (4).
Pros
- Cleans easily
- Great nonstick
- More available than 100% ceramic cookware.
Cons
- Coating is not 100% organic or natural.
Finding The Best Ceramic Cookware Sets
There are a few things you should consider when choosing the best ceramic cookware set.
Set
First, think about what you’ll be using the cookware set for. Do you cook just for yourself, or for a big family? And think also about whether you like to batch cook in big quantities.
Set sizes can vary in terms of the number of pieces. And usually the more pieces there are, the more expensive the set is. If you’re on a budget and/or a student cooking for one, this is a perfect option: Gibson Home Plaze Café Forged Aluminum Non-Stick Ceramic Cookware.
But if you’re cooking a lot and for big numbers, this could be a good pick: GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, Cookware Pots, and Pans Set.
Also, look at what’s included in the set. Do you want a dutch oven or a certain saute pan for specific dishes? Or do you want a ceramic skillet? Sometimes cooking utensils are included too. These can be a bonus, e.g. if there’s a non-metal slotted spoon in the set.
Compatibility
Check to see if the ceramic nonstick cookware set is oven safe. Most are, but there can be variations in how high the oven temperature can be. And whether the matching lids and handles are also oven safe.
Make sure the pots and pans are safe in the oven up to high heat if this is what you usually use. For example, this set is safe in an oven or broiler up to 600°F: GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard-Anodized Induction Safe Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Gray Cookware Set. But other ceramic cookware sets are only safe up to around 350°F.
Second, look at whether the set is compatible with your cooktop. If you’ve got an induction range then it needs to work for this. Or if you cook on glass, you’ll need flat-bottomed pans. Finally, check whether they are dishwasher safe or not if this is important to you.
Handles
Look at what the handles are made of. The material will determine what temperature the pan can go in the oven up to. Stainless steel handles are more resistant to higher heat than, for example, Bakelite handles.
And it’s also a good idea to see whether the handles will stay cool to the touch on your stovetop. Removable handles that detach from the pots and pans are also useful. They might be made of plastic or silicone to make them comfortable to hold. So removing them before putting the pan in the oven would be sensible to avoid melting!
Handles with or without rivets can be a personal choice. You might like the rivetless models which are easier to clean – no dirt gets stuck. But, others might prefer those with rivets as these tend to make the handles sturdier.
Brands
Consider each ceramic cookware brand. What does each offer in terms of the best ceramic cookware set? Here are a few of the main manufacturers.
WearEver
They originated back in 1888 with inventor Charles Martin Hall from Ohio. In 1912 the US Marine Corps adopted their utensils as their standard-issue utensils.
Their products are known for using heavy gauge aluminum, making the cookware set heat resistant up to 750°F. And their nonstick cookware is eco-friendly with its recyclable coating.
Blue Diamond
This manufacturer promises that their coating is 5 times harder than other nonstick cookware and will last 10 times longer than any other pan. Their ceramic coating is infused with diamonds. This transfers heat 4 times quicker than copper.
Their pots and pans are also safe in an oven or broiler to an incredibly hot 850°F. And you can put them in the dishwasher and use metal utensils as the nonstick surface is scratch-resistant.
Tramontina
This brand was founded in Brazil in 1911. Its distribution centers in Brazil cover the market there. But its products are bought in 120 countries across the world.
Their Gourmet ceramic collection combines a cold-forged heavy-gauge aluminum core with a durable porcelain enamel exterior. You can get a tempered glass lid for your dutch oven or saute pan. And the cast stainless steel handles are riveted.
Caraway
Caraway promises that their products “are designed to make your life easier and healthier”. As well as using a chemical-free coating, they are also recognized as being an ethical manufacturer. And they offer sustainable packaging free of any single-use plastics.
Plus their ceramic cookware is induction-ready. And their set comes with pot and lid holders making storage very easy.
Read Next: The Best Induction Cookware Set of 2023
Warranty
Each brand has different terms in the warranties that they offer. Look closely at the details. If your ceramic frying pan has a defect, or the coating scratches off on the first use, you’ll want to know that you can get a refund or replacement.
Brands such as Blue Diamond offer a limited lifetime warranty. Vremi, for example, offers a warranty limited to 2 years.
Make sure you check the manufacturer’s website to see what is covered. If you can’t see their warranty policy, contact them before buying.
The Best Ceramic Cookware Sets Of 2023
We’ve researched the best ceramic cookware sets for you. We’ve spent hours looking at customer feedback, manufacturer details, and technical specs. You’ll be able to compare different brands, prices, and sizes to pick the best set for your kitchen.
1. Calphalon Classic Oil-Infused Ceramic Cookware Set
This top ceramic cookware set from Calphalon will offer you style and fab nonstick pans for your kitchen. All your cooking needs will be met with these 11 pieces.
This set has 2 frying pans, a griddle pan, 2 saucepans, a quart pan, and a dutch oven. You’ll get 4 tempered glass lids to help you make dishes such as soups and stews.
And Calphalon promises that there are no heavy metals in their pots and pans, including no lead, cadmium, copper, nickel, chromium, or iron. So you don’t need to worry about anything toxic leaking into your food.
What We Like
Easy to Clean
Lots of users were impressed with how easily they could clean this cookware set. They are not dishwasher safe, but this was not a problem. Gentle hand washing seemed to work well enough.
Great Nonstick Surface
Calphalon says that these pans are 3 times more nonstick than their original ceramic cookware set. This is because of the coating which is infused with olive oil. This ensures that even sticky foods do not cling to the surface. And it’s healthy as you don’t need to add oil or butter.
Stay-Cool Handles
You won’t need to worry about burning your hands. The long, brushed stainless steel handles stay cool on your stovetop. And you can move the pots and pans easily too.
What We Don’t Like
Price
This Calphalon set is one of the more expensive ceramic cookware sets. Some users thought it was just too pricey. But, if you’re willing to invest – we think it’s a great collection of nonstick pots and pans that will cover all your needs in the kitchen.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 11 |
Accessories included | None |
Material | Hard-anodized aluminum core, Ceramic coating infused with olive oil |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 450°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/glass/halogen |
Warranty | 10 Year Limited |
Country of production | China |
2. T-fal Initiatives Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set
Grab a bargain with this cookware set from T-fal. For a low price you’ll not be disappointed with these 14 pieces.
There’s a frying pan for all your needs from a small egg pan to a 7.5 inch and an 11 inch that both come with lids. Plus 2 saucepans with lids, a dutch oven with lid, and 4 nylon utensils.
The core of these pans is heavy-gauge aluminum. This means that the base offers even heating. And the ceramic coating is heat resistant up to 570°F. So it’ll not scratch or stain easily.
What We Like
Thermo-Spot Technology
T-fal’s pans come with this technology that provides a handy heat indicator. The spots turn a solid red when they are properly heated. So you’ll know exactly when to start cooking.
Cost
Many customers were happy with the price of these pans for what the set offers. They thought that T-Fal offered value for money with a variety of pans/lids/utensils.
Eco-Friendly
These pots and pans are free of toxins and heavy metals that can be harmful to the environment. And they are also recyclable products. T-fal reuses aluminum for new products. This is a great plus if you are concerned about our planet.
What We Don’t Like
Coating Scratches
Some customers were dissatisfied with the durability of this pan set. After a few months of use, they found that the ceramic coating began to scratch or stain a black color. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidance for best use and cleaning.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 14 |
Accessories included | 4 utensils |
Material | Aluminum core, Ceramic coating |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 350°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/glass/halogen |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Country of production | France |
3. GreenLife Ceramic Cookware Set
These colorful ceramic cookware sets have more than 8,500 reviews on Amazon and we understand why. Available in 7 different colors, you’ll not struggle to find one to suit your taste.
And there are 16 pieces. 3 frying pans, 2 saucepans, a stockpot, a saute pan, 4 utensils, and a steamer insert. Plus 4 glass lids. GreenLife promises that the bases of their pans are “wobble-free” so you get even heat distribution.
Finally, you can safely put these pans in the dishwasher. But, they will wipe clean easily due to the great nonstick ceramic coating.
What We Like
Eco-friendly
The Thermolon coating is made from sand. And there’ll be no nasty chemicals or metals leaking into your food as it is PFAs, PFOA, lead, and cadmium-free. Plus, it’s also environmentally friendly as the base is made from recycled aluminum, and emissions of CO2 are up to 60% less than traditional nonstick pans.
Comfortable Handles
GreenLife has designed its handles with you in mind. They will stay cool to the touch. And users liked that they’re soft but firm to hold due to being made of Bakelite.
Versatility
The range of items included in this set will not disappoint. Reviewers found that they could cook everything, from eggs in the smallest frying pan, to a meal for 5 in the stockpot. Plus, the cooking utensils included will not scratch the pans or the nonstick coating.
What We Don’t Like
Keep on Lower Temperatures
GreenLife recommends that you use low to medium temperatures when cooking with this cookware set. Many users found that they worked fine on this level of heat. But, if you like higher temperatures, e.g. for searing or boiling water quickly, then this set might not be for you.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 16 |
Accessories included | 4 utensils and a stainless steel steamer basket |
Material | Aluminum core, Ceramic coating |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 350°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/glass/halogen |
Warranty | Limited |
Country of production | China |
4. Vremi Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set
Look like a professional in your kitchen and your dining room with this modern ceramic cookware set from Vremi. Choose from a blue, green, or yellow exterior to go alongside the creamy white interiors and lids, and stylish wooden-effect handles.
This set includes 2 different-sized skillets, 2 different-sized dutch ovens with lids, and a casserole pot with a lid. You’ll like the design of the lids. There’s a small gap between them and the pan body. So no mess from overspilling!
The marble-coated surface makes this ceramic cookware set very easy to clean. And the pans are built to last with a heat-resistant enamel exterior.
What We Like
Induction-Ready
Many users loved that these pots and pans are induction compatible. And they found that they worked well – heating quickly and evenly. Just make sure that the burner diameter of your induction cooktop is not bigger than the base of the pot or pan.
Quick to Heat
Lots of reviewers commented that these ceramic pans heat up quickly, even on low or medium heat. And they found that the nonstick cookware set had even heat distribution. So you’ll save money on energy bills.
Marble-Look
As well as the bright color options for this ceramic nonstick cookware set, customers liked the marble coating. This creamy, speckled finish added a stylish look to their cookware. So you can serve straight from your pots to plates on the dining room table.
What We Don’t Like
No Lids for Frying Pans
GreenLife has designed the frying pan with an angled edge so that you can flip dishes such as pancakes easier. But, these ceramic frying pans don’t come with lids that fit this feature. And so some users weren’t happy that because of the curved design, none of the lids provided would fit their skillets.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 8 |
Accessories included | None |
Material | Die-cast aluminum core, Ceramic coating |
Oven Safe | No |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/halogen/induction |
Warranty | 2 Year Limited |
Country of production | Designed in the US – Made overseas |
5. GreenPan Ceramic Cookware Set
Are you struggling for space in your kitchen? This compact set from GreenPan would suit those of you who’ve small cooking areas or want to lead a minimalist lifestyle.
You’ll get 2 frying pans, a 2-quart saucepan, and a nylon turner and spoon. This sturdy, ceramic-coated cookware set will last a long time.
And it can go in your oven or broiler up to a high heat of 600°F. So you can easily finish off any of your favorite dishes in the oven.
What We Like
Durability
The hard-anodized aluminum used for the pan bodies is scratch-resistant. And the diamond-reinforced coating provides great nonstick but will also not deteriorate. You can even use metal utensils on this cooking surface.
Lightweight
Several reviewers liked the lightness of these pans. They are strong enough to perform well, but also easy to move around between your cooktop, your oven, and the sink.
Award-Winning
GreenPan prides itself on the awards that they have won around the world. And you can see why. They were the first manufacturer to introduce a healthy, ceramic coating that was nonstick but contained no chemicals. And they guarantee that their coating is 100% non-toxic – they’re the only brand to make the ceramic coating in-house themselves.
What We Don’t Like
Hot Handles
Some users found that the matte stainless steel handles get hot fairly quickly. Be careful and use a handle cover if you’re worried about getting burnt.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 5 |
Accessories included | 2 utensils |
Material | Hard-anodized aluminum core, Diamond-reinforced ceramic coating |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 600°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/glass/halogen |
Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
Country of production | China |
6. Cuisinart Advantage Ceramica XT Cookware Set
“Perform all cooking tasks, large or small”. This is Cuisinart’s promise to you if you purchase their ceramic cookware set. The 11 pieces provide everything you need to fry, steam, boil, sauté, stew, and boil all your favorite dishes.
There are 2 skillets, a steamer insert, and 2 saucepans, a saute pan, and a large stockpot. The 3 pans and stockpot have tempered glass lids so you can easily see how your food is coming along as you cook.
You’ll also like the silicone handles. They’re designed to stay cool and kept strongly in place by rivets. You can even choose a red design or black with a copper-colored finish.
What We Like
Great Nonstick Coating
The nonstick ceramic coating on these pans is PTFE, PFOA, and PFOS free. Plus, it’s reinforced with titanium which customers found gave the coating great durability. As well as providing a fab nonstick surface to cook on, it won’t discolor or stain.
Lifetime Warranty
Cuisinart offers customers in the US a lifetime warranty to cover their cookware. Compared to other brands, this is a good plus point. You’ll never need to worry that you won’t get a refund or replacement if your cookware doesn’t work as it should.
Freezer Safe
You won’t find many quality pots and pans that can go in the freezer. But this set from Cuisinart can. So you can pre-make a stew or soup in the stockpot for a future event. Simply move the pot from your cooktop to your freezer once cooled.
What We Don’t Like
Can’t Go in Really Hot Ovens
This nonstick cookware set is only safe in ovens up to 350°F. This might be fine for your cooking style. But if you like finishing dishes off in the oven at high temperatures, a different set might be a better option for you.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 11 |
Accessories included | None |
Material | Aluminum core, Titanium-reinforced ceramic coating |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 350°F |
Dishwasher Safe | No |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/glass/halogen |
Warranty | Lifetime |
Country of production | China – France (French Classic line) |
7. COOKER KING Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan Set
This pick is a quality set of ceramic nonstick frying pans with crafted aluminum construction. Sturdy and durable, the structure of these ceramic pans ensures superior even heat distribution for a perfectly cooked meal.
We also love how this set has a convenient range of sizes. So whether you want to make scrambled eggs or cook a large steak, this set offers the perfect size for both.
They also have a professional nonstick interior coating, which makes washing away residual food a breeze.
Finally, they’re dishwasher-safe. So you can enjoy an easy cleanup every time you use them.
What We Like
Triangular Handle Design
The hollowed-out triangular design keeps the stainless steel handle on these ceramic pans cool. The sturdy double-riveted stainless steel handles also provide strong support. So you can enjoy the safe, easy handling of these ceramic frying pans.
Easy Food Release
You won’t have to worry about your food sticking to these non-stick ceramic pans. With a durable ceramic non-stick surface, you can enjoy easy food release. So you can effortlessly flip a pancake or slide your omelets onto your plate.
Needs Less Heat
Users say that these ceramic pans need less heat than many other non-stick frypans. So they save you time by heating up quickly with even heat distribution. And they’re energy-efficient too!
What We Don’t Like
Easy To Stain
A lot of users say these ceramic frying pans can stain easily with certain foods. Make sure you follow the care instructions when cleaning your ceramic-coated pans to avoid staining.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 3 |
Accessories included | None |
Material | Aluminum core, Ceramic Non-Stick |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 480°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Cooktops | Gas/electric/glass/halogen |
Warranty | N/A |
Country of production | China |
Ceramic Cookware Set Comparison Chart
Product | Pieces in Set | Accessories Included | Material | Oven safe | Dishwasher safe | Cooktops | Warranty | Country of Production |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Calphalon Ceramic Pots and Pans Set | 11 | None | Hard-anodized aluminum core | Yes up to 450 °F | Gas, electric, glass, halogen | 10 Year Limited | China | |
T-fal Ceramic Cookware Set | 14 | 4 utensils | Aluminum core Ceramic coating | Yes up to 350 °F | Gas, electric, glass, halogen | Limited lifetime | France | |
GreenLife Cookware Set | 16 | 4 utensils and a stainless steel steamer basket | Aluminum core Ceramic coating | Yes up to 350°F | Gas, electric, glass, halogen | Limited | China | |
Vremi Nonstick Cookware Set | 8 | None | Die-cast aluminum core Ceramic coating | Gas, electric, halogen, induction | 2 Year Limited | Designed in the US - Made overseas | ||
GreenPan Cookware Set | 5 | 2 utensils | Hard-anodized aluminum core Diamond-reinforced ceramic coating | Yes up to 600 °F | Gas, electric, halogen, glass | Limited Lifetime | China | |
Cuisinart Ceramica XT Cookware Set | 11 | None | Aluminum core Titanium-reinforced ceramic coating | Yes up to 350 °F | Gas, electric, halogen, glass | Lifetime | China - France (French Classic line) | |
COOKER KING Fring Pan Set | 3 | None | Aluminum core Ceramic Non-Stick | Yes up to 480 °F | Gas, electric, halogen, glass | N/A | China |
Jump to the Full Ceramic Cookware Reviews
How Long Does Ceramic Cookware Last?
A good ceramic cookware set should last you around 2 years.
This could be less if you don’t care for them well. So always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially when it comes to cleaning and optimum temperatures.
But, if your pans have any chips, or the coating starts to peel – you might want to replace them sooner. They won’t work as efficiently and the nonstick properties won’t be as good. Keep an eye on any marks and scratches.
Pick Ceramic for Healthy and Nonstick Cooking
Lots of us are worried about chemicals and toxins leaking into our food from our pans. We don’t want to harm ourselves or our families. And we’ve read bad things about coatings on pans made from, for example, Teflon.
But you can put your worries to one side if you invest in a ceramic cookware set. They provide you with a healthy way to cook. And they’re nonstick, easy to clean, and won’t react with your food.
You’ll need to think about what you’ll use the ceramic cookware set for, and what type of cooktop you need them to work on. So look at set size, handles, the brand, and compatibility.
Please share any comments you might have below. And send this article to your friends so they can see the benefits of cooking with ceramic cookware too!