Anolon Cookware Reviews: The Best Anolon Advanced Cookware for 2023

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After researching the wide range of Anolon cookware sets, I found the Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set to be the best Anolon cookware set.

The advantage of a cookware set is that you don’t have to shop around for different pieces. And since a set has the same materials and construction, you don’t have to learn how to care for 11 different types of cookware.

When it comes to cookware sets, however, you want to make sure to get the right type. You have more riding on the purchase, so you want to get it right the first time.

That’s why I loved the Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard-Anodized Non-stick 11 Piece Cookware Set. It’s a high-quality cookware set that offers some important advantages.

But that might not be the best set for you. Which one of the Anolon cookware sets fits that bill? Read on to find out.

Anolon Cookware Reviews

Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard-Anodized Non-stick 11 Piece Cookware Set: Best Overall

This Nouvelle set is induction-compatible. It has a multilayer induction plate with copper sandwiched between a stainless steel base for even heat distribution.

The construction has multiple layers, featuring hard-anodized aluminum and a non-stick coating.

Speaking of non-stick, this set features a triple layer non-stick surface reinforced with sapphire. This increases the durability.

The hard-anodized non-stick 11 piece cookware set includes the following:

1.5-quart (1.4 liter) covered saucepan, 3-quart (2.8 liter) covered saucepan, 8-quart (7.6 liter) covered stockpot, 3-quart (2.8 liter) sauté with lid and helper handle, 8.5-Inch (21.5 cm), and 12-inch (30.5 cm)  skillets.

Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard Anodized Nonstick Pots and Pans, Cookware Set (11 Piece), Sable

This set is attractive, coming in two color options: sable or onyx. The exterior non-stick finish and stainless steel lids give a sleek look to these pots and pans.

The hard-anodized construction means this cookware set heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly.

One thing that separates this set from others is that even the rivets on the inside are non-stick coated. And one thing that makes me cranky? When I have to clean food particles off the rivets of a non-stick pan that’s supposed to be easy to clean.

And since this set is oven safe for temperatures up to 500° F (260° C), it’s perfect for stovetop to broiler dishes. I’m looking at you, lobster mac and cheese.

Regardless of what the manufacturer claims, I would avoid metal utensils like the plague. Better safe than scratched. This cookware is dishwasher-safe, though, so cleanup is easy.

The exterior non-stick is also easy to scratch. One customer recommended placing dish towels between them for stacking. So if you don’t have the space to store them in a single layer, this solution could work for you.

This set has excellent reviews and performance, but it will cost you a little more than other sets on the list.

Check out Anolon’s video demonstrating this line:

Pros

  • Attractive color options
  • Heats quickly
  • Even heat distribution
  • Oven safe up to 500° F (260° C)
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • More expensive
  • Non-stick exterior prone to scratching

Anolon Advanced Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set: Best Budget Non-stick Option

This 11-piece set features advanced hard-anodized aluminum with a non-stick surface. It comes in a range of attractive colors. The Anolon Advanced bronze and indigo colors are unique and would look great in the kitchen.

The set includes a 1.5-quart (liter) covered saucepan, a 3-quart (liter) covered saucepan, 8-quart (7.6 liter) covered stockpot, 8-inch (20.3 cm) French skillet, and a 12-inch (30.5 cm) covered deep skillet with helper handle.

The tempered glass lids with metal rim are shatter-resistant and oven safe for temperatures up to 400°F (204° C). Anolon’s SureGrip handles are double riveted for extra strength and support.

Customers emphasized over and over how nothing sticks to these pans. The non-stick surface has maximum food release.

I like that this pan can go from stovetop to the oven. The skillet would be great for a frittata, a favorite dish in my house.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is the upkeep. These non-stick pans can last a long time, but not without proper care.

While the Anolon Advanced hard-anodized aluminum cookware set is supposed to be metal utensil safe, I wouldn’t risk it. Stick to heat-resistant silicone or wooden tools. Also, this set is not dishwasher-safe. You’ll need to hand wash this cookware to avoid damaging the non-stick surface.

Something else to consider? The exterior non-stick coatings are not as durable as the interior. Many customers said the outside scratches easily. This won’t affect the cooking performance, but it can be an eyesore.

Pros

  • Range of attractive color options
  • Non-stick coating performs well
  • Oven safe up to 400°F (204° C)

Cons

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Exterior non-stick is prone to scratching

Anolon Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel Cookware Pots and Pans Set: Best Stainless Steel Option

This Anolon cookware set features a triply clad stainless steel construction with an aluminum core. That aluminum core helps the cookware heat quickly, while the stainless steel retains the heat. This is great for searing and simmering food.

This 12 piece set includes the following: 1.5-quart (1.4 liter) and 2-quart (1.9 liter) saucepans with lid, 3.5-Quart (3.3 liter) saucepot with lid, 4-Quart (3.8 liter) sauté pan with Lid, 8-Quart (7.6 liter) stockpot with lid, 8.5-Inch (21.5 cm) and 10.25-Inch (26 cm) frying pans.

These pots and pans are compatible with induction cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C). It’s also dishwasher safe and metal utensil safe, unlike non-stick pans.

The stainless steel handles are dual riveted for extra sturdiness, and they stay cool to the touch. The stainless steel domed lids lock in heat and moisture. They are not vented, however.

As with all stainless steel, this set is not non-stick. Some customers are worried about sticking or burning food. Pro tip? Adding oil too soon will cause it to sink into the pores and make your food stick.  Preheat the pan before adding your oil.

Anolon 30822 Triply Clad Stainless Steel Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 12 Piece

Pros

  • Beautiful polished stainless finish
  • Dishwasher and metal utensil safe
  • Oven safe up to 500° F (260° C)

Cons

  • Lids are not vented or see-through
  • More prone to sticking
  • More expensive

Anolon Nouvelle Stainless Steel Cookware Pots and Pans Set: Best Budget Stainless Option

This Anolon Nouvelle cookware set has a stainless steel body and flush, dual-riveted stainless steel handles. The multi-layer metal base with copper core is compatible with all cooktops, including induction.

This cookware has a beautiful polished finish. It looks like something professional chefs would have in their kitchens. And while stainless can run more expensive than other cookware, this set is relatively affordable.

It comes with a 1.25-quart (liter) and 2.5-quart (liter) covered saucepan, 6.5-quart (liter) stockpot with lid, 8-inch (20.3 cm) and 10.5-inch (26.7 cm) frying pans, and a 3-quart (liter) covered sauté pan. 

The stainless steel lids are domed to lock in heat and moisture. They are not vented, though. This set is oven safe up to 500° F (260°C), making it versatile.

Customers loved the cooking performance of this set. It conducts heat evenly and holds in heat. Stainless steel is typically slower to get hot, but these pans seem to heat pretty quickly.

And since this cookware doesn’t have any non-stick finish, it’s free of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). You can read more about why some people choose to avoid PTFE in the buying guide.

Anolon Nouvelle Stainless Steel Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 10 Piece

The primary complaint users had with this set is the cleanup. Stainless steel cookware is not non-stick, so food is likely to get stuck. Cleaning stuck-on food particles is not my idea of a fun evening.

There were a couple of helpful suggestions, however. You can use a special cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend to keep that stainless surface clean.

And for those stubborn stains? Boil vinegar inside the pan to loosen the stains. Your kitchen will stink for a few minutes, but at least you’ll have beautifully shiny pans.

Be aware; there were some reports of the bottom copper ring discoloring or fading. This won’t affect cooking performance, but it could be unsightly.

In my in-depth review of this cookware, I found it to be a great solution for those who want beauty and quality.

Pros

  • Attractive stainless steel finish
  • PTFE-free
  • Even heat distribution
  • Oven safe up to 500° F (260° C)
  • Safe for metal utensils
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Lids are not vented
  • Not non-stick, difficult to clean
  • Reports of discoloration on copper ring

Anolon Smart Stack Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware: Best Space-Saving

The most expensive set on the list, this hard-anodized non-stick 11 piece set comes in a matte black and includes a bonus trivet.

With this set, you’ll get the following: a 2-Quart (1.9 liter) covered saucepan, 4-Quart (3.8 liter) saucepan with lid and helper handle, 8-Quart (7.6 liter) Stockpot with Lid, 5-Quart (4.7 liter) sauté with lid and helper handle, 8.5-Inch (21.5 cm) frying pan, 10-Inch (25.4 cm) frying pan, and stainless steel steamer basket insert. 

While this set only has 10 pieces and is more expensive, there are some essential advantages. First, the silicone and stainless steel handles interlock, which means you can stack these pots and pans without damaging the non-stick coating. 

You can also nest the tempered glass lids, saving even more space. If you’re tight on storage but still want the benefits of non-stick, this stackable cookware set is helpful.

What’s more? The non-stick coating extends to the flat rivets, which is ideal for easy stirring. The domed glass lids are see-through and break-resistant. And this set is entirely dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

This is one of the best non-stick coatings in terms of durability, featuring a sapphire-reinforced Infinity Slide™ non-stick that lasts 16 times longer than traditional non-stick and 80 times longer than typical ceramic cookware.

Pros

  • Infinity Slide™ non-stick coating
  • Even heat distribution
  • Stackable pots and pans set
  • Oven safe up to 400°F (204°C)
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Pricier than other sets

Alternative to Anolon Advanced & Nouvelle Hard-Anodized Non-stick: Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Non-stick Pots and Pans Set

Like the Anolon Advanced and Nouvelle hard-anodized non-stick pots and pans, this Calphalon cookware set also features a hard-anodized aluminum construction and a triple layer non-stick coating.

It includes: 10-inch (25.4 cm) and 12-inch (30.5 cm) omelette pans, 2-quart (1.9 liter) and 3-quart (2.8 liter) covered saucepans, 3-quart (2.8 liter) sauté with cover, and 8-quart (7.6 liter) stockpot with lid.

Calphalon 10-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Nonstick Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Stainless Steel Handles, Dishwasher and Metal Utensil Safe, PFOA-Free, Black

This hard-anodized non-stick cookware set is safe for metal utensils, according to the manufacturer. As with the Anolon cookware, I would err on the side of caution and stick to heat-resistant silicone or wooden utensils.

Key Differences

  • Slightly smaller than Anolon sets (1 less lid)
  • Cost is between the Advanced and Nouvelle
  • Only 1 color choice

Alternative to Anolon Stackable: Calphalon Premier Space Saving Pots and Pans Set

Calphalon also offers this hard-anodized non-stick cookware set. Like Anolon, this non-stick cookware has a hard-anodized construction and triple layer non-stick coating.

It comes with the following: 8-inch (20.3 cm), 10-inch (25.4 cm), and 12-inch (30.5 cm) fry pans, 2.5-quart and 3.5-quart (3.3 liter) covered saucepans, 4.5-quart soup pan with cover, 3-quart sauté with lid, 5-quart sauteuse with cover, and 8-quart (7.6 liter) covered stockpot.

Calphalon 15-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Stackable Nonstick Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Stainless Steel Handles, Black

This set can handle a slightly higher heat than the Anolon Stackable pots and pans. This cookware set also includes more pieces.

Key Differences

  • More extensive cookware set (15 pieces vs. Anolon’s 11)
  • More expensive
  • Break-resistant glass lids are flat

Alternative to Anolon Nouvelle and Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel: Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel Pots and Pans

This Calphalon set includes 10-inch (25.4 cm) and 12-inch (30.5 cm) covered fry pans, 1.5 quart (1.4 liter) and 2.5-quart (2.4 liter) covered saucepans, 5-quart (4.7 liter) sauté with cover, and an 8-quart (7.6 liter) multi-pot with cover, pasta insert, and steamer insert.

Like the Anolon sets, this Calphalon option is stainless steel and is oven and dishwasher-safe. The glass lids are interchangeable and have a metal rim.

Calphalon 13-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Stainless Steel Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Handles and Steamer Insert, Dishwasher Safe, Silver

Key Differences

  • Larger cookware set
  • Interchangeable lids
  • Significantly more expensive

Anolon Advanced Cookware: Buying Guide

Is Anolon a good brand?

When spending a nice chunk of change on a new cookware set, most people want to make sure the brand is reputable and has high-quality cookware.

Rest assured that Anolon is on par with a host of other brands. In fact, the Meyer Corporation owns Anolon cookware. This is the same company responsible for producing Rachael Ray, Ayesha Curry, and Circulon cookware, among others.

Anolon offers a limited lifetime warranty. The reviews were mixed on the coverage. But Anolon’s limited lifetime warranty does not cover misuse, so don’t expect to use a metal fork on non-stick and get a replacement pan.

Is Anolon cookware any good?

While the cookware is manufactured in China, the distributor is U.S. based and subject to U.S. regulations and quality control. Anolon’s hard-anodized aluminum cookware is high-quality and durable.

Be sure to properly use and care for your cookware to keep it at its best. And Anolon’s limited lifetime warranty will cover defective pieces.

Is non-stick Anolon cookware safe?

The short answer? Yes, Anolon cookware is perfectly safe!

A caveat, however. Some of the cookware sets mentioned have a non-stick surface that includes Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When heated to temperatures above 500°F (260°C), PTFE can release toxic fumes. However, most home ovens don’t even go above that temperature.

Even if the Teflon (the brand name for PTFE) does flake and is ingested, it’s supposedly safe. But I’m not interested in testing that claim.

So to ensure safe cooking and keep your non-stick surface in good shape, I would avoid metal cooking tools. Even if Anolon claims metal utensils are okay, I would still stick to wooden and heat-resistant silicone tools.

Also? Hand washing is better than the dishwasher. While some of the sets are advertised as dishwasher-safe, I would opt to hand wash all non-stick pans to keep that finish free of scratches.

Is Anolon cookware dishwasher safe?

Some sets are, and others are not. In general, I would recommend hand washing for non-stick sets, while stainless steel sets should do just fine in the dishwasher. Check the product guidelines, however, for proper cleaning and care.

Which is better: Anolon or Calphalon?

Anolon and Calphalon are similar in their design and offerings. The differences are not significant, so it mainly comes down to your preferences.

Calphalon can generally handle a higher heat and is safer in the dishwasher. Anolon’s silicone handles are more comfortable than Calphalon’s stainless steel handles. Anolon is usually more affordable than Calphalon, as well.

For a more detailed comparison, see my review of Anolon and Calphalon pots and pans.

Is Anolon cookware heavy?

Anolon cookware is heavy, but lighter than cast iron. Stainless steel is heavier than aluminum, so stainless steel cookware will also run heavier.

If you need something lightweight, I would opt for a hard-anodized aluminum set with non-stick surface over stainless steel.

What features does Anolon cookware have?

Oven-safe

All of the above Anolon cookware sets are oven-safe. Some can only handle up to 400°F (204°C), while others can go all the way up to 500°F (260°C). The lids vary in their maximum temps, as well. Most glass lids can only handle 350°F (177°C), but stainless lids can get much hotter.

In general, stainless steel can handle a higher heat. If you want to put your cookware in the oven at high heat, I would go with one that can take a higher temperature.

Stainless steel lids

While some Anolon cookware sets have glass lids, several have stainless steel lids. The advantage of stainless covers is that they are durable and break-resistant.

They also can handle high heat, meaning you can put a covered dish in the oven without worry. Anolon’s lid handles are high enough for you to lift without worrying about burning your hands on the stainless steel lid.

One drawback is that you obviously can’t see through stainless steel. If you absolutely must be able to monitor food without removing the lid, I would go for glass, like with the Anolon Advanced Bronze Set and the Anolon Stackable set.

When you use pots and pans repeatedly, the handles can get loose. Loose handles on the skillet are problematic, especially when cleaning a skillet with some heft. Plus, a wobbly handle is just plain annoying.

Dual riveted handles

Having dual-riveted handles are great for a sturdier grip. Cleaning a heavy pan becomes easier when you’re confident the handle won’t wobble. Anolon handles have dual rivets to give you a sure grip when handling your cookware.

Hard-anodized non-stick

Hard-anodized cookware has burst onto the scene in recent years. Anolon’s hard-anodized construction features aluminum that has been oxidized to produce a hard layer over the aluminum. This layer is harder than stainless steel and resistant to corrosion.

Since hard-anodized aluminum is non-reactive, you can cook highly acidic foods like tomato sauce without changing the flavor. Furthermore, hard-anodized cookware does not require seasoning.

However, when many people say hard-anodized cookware, what they really mean is hard-anodized non-stick cookware. Many manufacturers, including Anolon, also add a non-stick coating on the cookware.

Check out my hard anodized non-stick cookware guide for more information.

Stainless Steel

For those that want to avoid non-stick, Anolon also offers stainless steel cookware. Stainless steel can handle high heat and is super durable.

It is slower to heat, though. Anolon includes an aluminum core in its Tri-Ply set to speed up the heating process.

Stainless is notorious for sticking and being difficult to clean. However, this is primarily due to user error. Make sure to preheat the cookware before adding the oil. This will keep food from sticking.

You also might invest in Bar Keepers Friend as a cleaner. Of course, I like the inexpensive (albeit stinky) method of boiling vinegar to loosen stains. Either way, with some simple strategies, you can keep your stainless steel looking beautiful and shiny.

Anolon Cookware Reviews: What’s the Final Word?

If you want the best performance and features, the Anolon Nouvelle Hard-Anodized Non-stick 11 Piece cookware set would be ideal for you.

If you prefer to avoid non-stick, I would go with the Anolon Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel option.

If your budget is a little tighter, I liked the quality of the Anolon Advanced Hard-Anodized Non-stick set. It has excellent reviews and many of the features of the Nouvelle set.