Dinner ideas

7 stainless steel saucepans perfect for searing, stewing and sautéing

Cook up a feast with these saucepans.
Swiss Diamond Premium Steel 6pc Cookware Set

How often does more of your dinner end up stuck to the bottom of the saucepan than on your plate? Maybe it’s time to invest in some new cookware.

Stainless steel is a good option because not only is it strong and hard, but it’s also non-corrosive and most importantly, affordable. Make sure to look for one that’s mixed with aluminium or copper for more even heat distribution.

We’ve done the hard work and rounded up our favourite stainless steel saucepans for you.

7 best stainless steel saucepans to shop in Australia 2024

The Cooks Collective Cookware Set of 4 Piece in Stainless Steel

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The Cooks Collective cookware set of 4 in stainless steel

$389.95 at Myer

Material: high-quality stainless steel.

The Cooks Collective brings you this best-selling cookware set, designed to be your one-stop shop. Made from high-quality 18/10 stainless steel, it includes saucepans, casseroles, stockpots and steamers.

Key features:

  • Made from high-quality 18/10 stainless steel for long-lasting performance
  • Multiple sizes for various cooking tasks
  • Heat-tempered glass lids for safe viewing
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Suitable for oven use up to 220°C (with lids) or 180°C (without lids)
Tefal Virtuoso induction saucepan with lid 16cm

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Tefal Virtuoso induction saucepan with lid 16cm

$59.95 at Amazon

Material: stainless steel.

This stylish and dependable pan boasts a generous 1.5L capacity, perfect for everyday cooking. Made from premium-quality stainless steel, it’s built to last with a 10-year warranty for peace of mind.

Key features:

  • High-quality stainless steel construction
  • Extra-thick base for consistent heat distribution
  • Thermo-Spot technology for precise searing
  • Extra-resistant riveted stainless steel handle
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Works on all stovetops, including induction

Also available at:

Swiss Diamond premium steel stainless steel cookware 6 piece set

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Swiss Diamond premium steel stainless steel cookware 6 piece set

$329.95 (usually $799.95) at Kitchen Warehouse

Material: premium, corrosion-resistant 18/10 stainless steel.

All your culinary bases are covered here, offering everything you need to tackle any culinary challenge. From searing steaks to simmering sauces, this set includes a variety of pots and pans to suit every cooking need.

Key features:

  • Super strong and built to last
  • Heats evenly
  • See-through lids let you keep an eye on your food without lifting
  • Easy to hold and manoeuvre
  • Drip-free rim for clean transfers
  • Works on all stoves, including induction

Also available at:

Scanpan Impact saucepan 18cm

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Scanpan Impact saucepan 18cm

$69.95 (usually $129) at Mini Max

Materials: high-quality stainless steel and impact bonded base with encapsulated aluminium core.

This versatile 18cm saucepan from Scanpan is made from high-quality stainless steel, with a sleek two-tone design and a generous 2.5L capacity.

Key features:

  • Thick bonded base for optimal heat distribution
  • Drip-free pouring rims and a sturdy stainless steel handle that stays cooler for longer
  • Inner capacity markings for easy and accurate measurements
  • Suitable for all stovetops, including induction
  • Oven safe to 220°C with lid and 250°C without lid
  • 10-year warranty

Also available at:

Nisbets Essentials stainless steel saucepan 900ml

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Nisbets Essentials stainless steel saucepan 900ml

$19.90 at Nisbets

Materials: stainless steel and aluminium.

This professional-grade saucepan is made with a stainless steel body and aluminium base, allowing for great heat retention and distribution.

“Second one of these pots bought, and they’re super,” said a reviewer who left five stars. “Perfect size and weight and good handle that is strongly attached and doesn’t get hot.”

Key features:

  • High heat retention
  • Highly durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Suitable for all cooking surfaces, including induction.
Baccarat Capri+ Saucepan With Lid 20cm

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Baccarat Capri+ saucepan with lid 20cm

$199.99 from Brosa

Material: quality 18/10 stainless steel.

Featuring a body made from 18/10 stainless steel and an aluminium impact bonded encapsulated base, this saucepan ensures quick and even heat transfer without hot spots.

Key features:

  • Mirror finish outer with easy-clean satin interior
  • Quick and even heat transfer without hot spots
  • Stylish domed glass lid with steam vents and large handle for lifting
  • Ergonomically designed silicone handle ensures saucepan is oven safe (180C) and dishwasher safe
  • Suitable for all cooktops, including induction
  • Baccarat lifetime guarantee

Also available at:

Le Creuset 3-ply stainless steel saucepan with lid 20cm

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Le Creuset 3-ply stainless steel saucepan with lid 20cm

$214.90 (usually $310) at Amazon

Materials: multi-ply stainless steel and aluminium.

By taking the iconic look from its coloured cast iron pots, Le Creuset has created this quality stainless steel and aluminium saucepan. Apart from the effective heat distribution, it also includes a pouring rim that helps prevent drips and keeps surfaces clean.

“Very happy with these pots and pans,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “I bought one a month as they are so expensive but totally worth every penny. It’s my fourth set of saucepans. The first three sets were expensive and good brands but still broke and handles fell off etc. These are rock solid. Heavy but brilliantly made. I was worried the food would stick and burn etc because they are not non-stick. But they don’t stick at all! If you’re not sure or worried about spending so much, go for it!”

Key features:

  • 3-ply material provides even heating across the base and sides
  • Comfortable to hold ‘Stay Cool’ hollow cast and polished stainless steel long handle
  • Additional cast stainless steel helper handle for easier and safe use
  • Vented lid to manage steam build up
  • Suitable for all heat sources, including induction
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Lifetime limited warranty

Also available at:

Are stainless steel saucepans worth buying?

Absolutely! Stainless steel saucepans are worth buying for their durability, versatility and easy maintenance. With excellent heat distribution, they ensure even cooking, are suitable for various techniques and cooktops, and are dishwasher safe.

Are stainless steel pans healthy?

Yes, stainless steel pans are generally considered healthy. They do not leach harmful chemicals into your food, as some non-stick coatings might. Stainless steel is also non-reactive, meaning it won’t interact with acidic or alkaline foods, preserving the taste and nutritional value of your dishes.

With proper use and maintenance, stainless steel pans can be a healthy and safe option for cooking.

Lead image: Kitchen Warehouse

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