Copper Chef Reviews: Pan, Cookware and Alternatives

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I’ve rounded up and reviewed all the Copper Chef pan sets. My number one pick? The Copper Chef Black Diamond 10-piece set.

Having a good non-stick pan is great for cooking eggs and other sticky foods, but it can be overwhelming trying to find the right among a sea of non-stick cookware.

You’ve probably seen the TV commercials for Copper Chef pans, the ones where eggs slide right out. But it’s hard to judge a pan by what you see on TV.

I found the Copper Chef pans to be lightweight, easy to clean, and have good value. They’re not going to last forever, so expect to replace them in a few years.

That’s why I like the Copper Chef Black Diamond set as my top choice. It has added durability and superb performance while being affordable.

But you might want a single pan instead of an entire set. Or perhaps you want a larger set than the 10-piece. There are a lot of considerations. But I’ve broken down the pros and cons of each Copper Chef set, just for you.

Which Copper Chef pan is right for you? Keep reading to learn more.

All About Copper Chef Pans & Copper Ceramic

The Copper Chef brand is a subsidiary of Tristar Products. It’s the company responsible for a variety of “As Seen on TV” products. You may have seen celebrity chefs like Chef Eric Theiss or Chef Jet Tila promoting Copper Chef pans on TV infomercials.

Copper Chef Reviews

Despite its name, Copper Chef does not actually contain copper. The copper refers to the color of the non-stick coating. True copper cookware is quite expensive and falls outside the budgets of many homeowners. Copper non-stick, however, is much more affordable.

All Copper Chef pans feature their proprietary Cerami-Tech non-stick coating. This coating is free of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) and PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), the main ingredient in Teflon.

PTFE has not been proven to be toxic to humans at normal cooking temperatures, but it can release fumes at high heat that are lethal to birds and harmful to humans. So many people wish to avoid it. All Copper Chef cookware is PTFE-free.

There are three distinct cookware series: Signature, Black Diamond, and Titan. These products are not generally going to last a lifetime, but they can be useful tools in the kitchen.

The manufacturer’s customer service reviews are rather poor, so you’re better off if you buy Copper Chef pans from a reputable distributor.

Best copper chef cookware

Product Reviews: Copper Chef Cookware

Copper Chef Black Diamond 10-Piece Induction Cookware Set: Best Overall

The Copper Chef Black Diamond cookware set comes with the following 10 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan with lid
  • 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 4.5-quart (4.26 liters) covered casserole pan
  • Roasting rack
  • Slotted spoon & spatula

This Copper Chef cookware set is distinct from the others listed due to its interior non-stick coating, which the manufacturer talks about here:

While the exterior still has the same copper-colored non-stick coating, the cooking surface features a 3-D diamond matrix surface with a raised texture. This is supposed to help food release while also making the non-stick surface scratch-resistant.

The stainless steel induction plate allows you to use this Copper Chef cookware on any cooktop. The handles have a stainless steel construction and steam vents.

The saucepan, casserole, and large frying pan all have a flat, tempered glass lid that can be stacked for easy storing.

As with other Copper Chef cookware, these pans are dishwasher safe, but you’ll get a longer life out of your cookware if you hand wash it.

The Copper Chef Black Diamond cookware set is oven-safe, as well. I wasn’t able to find a max temperature, though.

This set had great reviews. Customers said these pans were easy to clean and had nice heat distribution. They liked flat lids, as well.

On top of it all? This set is very affordable.

Pros

  • Induction compatible
  • Diamond-infused non-stick coating
  • Raised texture on non-stick coating
  • Scratch-resistant
  • Tempered glass lids
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Smaller set, not as many pans
  • No max temperature listed

Copper Chef Cookware 9-Piece Round Pan Set: Overall Runner-Up

Copper Chef is known for its iconic square pans, but this cookware set features traditional round fry pans and saucepans. The Copper Chef collection includes:

  • 5.8-quart (5.49 liters) casserole pan with glass lid
  • 2.8-quart (2.65 liters) saucepan with glass lid
  • 1-quart (.9 liter) saucepan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) round fry pan
  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) round fry pan
  • round fry basket
  • 9-inch (22.86 cm) round steamer tray

I found this set to include the most commonly used pieces, even though the small saucepan could be a little larger.  It would also be nice to have glass lids for the small saucepan and skillets.

I prefer a round pan to a square pan because it’s better for stirring and tends to heat more evenly on the round stove burners.

That being said, it’s really up to your personal preference. Some people like square pans for pancakes or frying bacon, for instance.

All the pans feature Copper Chef’s Cerami-tech non-stick coating. The aluminum construction means these pans have fast heat conduction.

This set is dishwasher-safe, although Copper Chef recommends washing your pan by hand with mild soap and a non-abrasive sponge. This will help preserve the non-stick properties and prevent damage.

Customers loved how nothing sticks to these pans, but they are easy to scratch. Stick to wooden or plastic utensils and stay away from metal.

Copper Chef’s round pans are compatible with all stovetops. They also feature a stainless steel induction plate to make them suitable for an induction cooktop.

There were some reports, however, that the small saucepan did not work with induction stoves. Some reviewers suggested there might not be enough magnetic stainless steel in the plate to make it work.

These pans can handle high heat, so you’ll have no problem using them in the oven. They’re oven-safe for temperatures up to a whopping 850°F (454°C).

But just because they can handle high oven heat doesn’t mean you should crank up the heat on the stovetop burner. High heat can warp the aluminum core and ruin the pan.

Pros

  • Ceramic non-stick coating
  • Safe for induction cooking surfaces
  • Oven-safe up to 850°F (454°C)
  • Heats quickly and evenly
  • Dishwasher-safe (handwashing recommended)

Cons

  • No lids for small saucepan or frying pans
  • Small saucepan spotty with induction

Copper Chef 10-inch Round Frying Pan with Lid: Best Individual Pan

Want an individual pan instead of the entire Copper Chef set? You’re in luck. This 10-inch (25.4 cm) round frying pan is sold separately. Unlike the round pan in the complete set, this Copper Chef frying pan comes with a lid.

It’s important to use the right type of oil with this pan. Choose oils with a high smoke point like avocado, peanut, or vegetable oil. Avoid extra-virgin olive oil and cooking sprays, which can damage the non-stick surface.

Copper Chef Non-stick Square Fry Pan 5-Piece Set

Do you live for frying, sautéeing, and grilling? This Copper Chef Cookware set might be up your alley. The 5-piece set includes the following:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) square frying pan
  • 9.5-inch (24.13 cm) square frying pan with glass lid
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) square frying pan with glass lid

This set might a bit redundant for some, but it’s ideal for those who like frying multiple foods at one time. You can cook pancakes, bacon, and eggs simultaneously with these fry pans. 

The two larger-sized fry pans include a tempered glass lid, but the smaller one does not.

The shallow sides give some versatility to these pans. And since they’re oven-safe up to 850°F (454°C), you can also use them like casserole dishes. Several users were able to successfully bake brownies and other foods.

Copper Chef Non-Stick Square Fry Pan 5-Piece Set, 8 Inch Griddle Pan, 9.5 Inch Grill Pan, 11 Inch Griddle Pan, 9.5 Inch Lid, 11 Inch Lid

The stainless steel induction plate means these pans can work on all stovetops. Be sure to use low or medium heat to avoid warping.

These copper ceramic pans are quite thin, so you’ll want to be careful when using them. Several reviewers complained that these pans are not flat. The center is raised, causing the oil to pool around the perimeter.

Pros

  • Cerami-tech coating
  • Even heat distribution
  • Safe for all cooktops
  • Oven-safe up to 850°F (454°C)

Cons

  • Smallest fry pan does not include lid
  • Easy to chip or scratch
  • Raised center

Copper Chef 12-Piece Non-stick Cookware Set: Best for Stovetop to Oven 

This Copper Chef cookware set is the largest in our Copper Chef pan sets, coming with the following 12 pieces:

  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) deep casserole pan with lid
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) extender ring
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) steamer tray
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) square frying pan
  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) deep baking dish with lid
  • 9.5-inch (24.13 cm) fry basket
  • silicone mat
  • 2-piece silicone handle set
  • Copper Chef recipe book

Even though this set is larger, the silicone mat, handle set, and recipe book comprises four of those pieces.

One distinguishing feature of this Copper Chef set is the steamer tray and extender ring, which come in handy if you like to steam vegetables, fish, or potstickers while cooking other foods underneath.

That being said, several users complained that their steamers were missing legs.

This set also comes with a fry basket. Some users had success with deep-frying, while others had issues with the oil being slow to heat. Another issue many customers had was the uneven surface.

The raised center caused all the oil to pool around the perimeter of the pans, making it difficult to cook evenly.

The handles on these ceramic pans are different than other Copper Chef sets. Instead of a single, long stainless steel handle, the casserole pans and frying pan have two looped stainless steel handles.

The looped handles make it easier to transport these pans in and out of the oven. These handles have little heat resistance, though, so be sure to use oven mitts when handling them. Customers frequently complained about how hot the handles got.

Reviewers loved how easy this non-stick cookware was to clean. But they emphasized how important it was to avoid metal cooking tools. Metal can scratch the ceramic non-stick coating.

Pros

  • Good for steaming
  • Great for oven dishes
  • Even heat distribution
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Reports of missing steamer legs
  • Handles do not stay cool
  • Not safe for metal utensils

Copper Chef Titan Pan, 5-Piece Cookware Set: Best for Durability

If you’re looking for the best of stainless steel and non-stick aluminum cookware? Look no further. Promoted by Chef Jet Tila, this cookware seeks to provide extra durability, maximum heat distribution, and increased thermal conductivity.

Here’s what the manufacturer has to say about this pan:

The Copper Chef Titan Pan set has 5 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) fry pan with lid
  • steamer basket
  • recipe book

The Titan pan set is tri-ply cookware. It features an aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel layers and a non-stick cooking surface.

The aluminum layer helps these pans cook faster, and the stainless steel provides durability and heat retention.  The non-stick layer is textured to help food release. Copper Chef claims this pan is even safe for metal utensils.

Like the other Copper Chef pans, this set is compatible with an induction cooktop. It’s also oven-safe for temperatures up to 450°F (232°C). The tempered glass lid for the 11-inch (27.94 cm) fry pan is safe for temps up to 350°F (177°C).

Unlike some of the other sets, the dual-riveted stainless steel handles stay cool during stovetop use. The Copper Chef Titan pan is also dishwasher-safe, although I would recommend washing them by hand.

For more information, you can read this in-depth review of the Copper Chef Titan Pan.

Pros

  • Tri-ply construction
  • Can use on induction cooktop
  • Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Smaller set, fewer pieces
  • Requires seasoning
  • More expensive

Alternative Options

Gotham Steel Pro Hard-Anodized 13-Piece Cookware Set

For an alternative option, this Gotham Steel Pro set features a copper-colored interior and sleek gray exterior. It’s a comprehensive set, including the following 13 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) frying pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pan
  • 12.5-inch (31.75 cm) frying pan
  • 1.5-quart (liter) & 2.5-quart (liter) covered saucepans
  • 3-quart (liters) chef’s pan with glass lid
  • 3-quart (liters) sauté pan with glass lid
  • 6-quart (liters) covered stockpot

The hard-anodized aluminum construction provides extra durability and hardness. Gotham Steel uses a titanium-infused ceramic non-stick coating for this set.

The titanium is supposed to provide durability and make the pans scratch-resistant. The stainless steel handles are heat-resistant, although some users said they got hot during the cooking process.

Gotham Steel Pro 13 Pc Ceramic Pots and Pans Set Nonstick Cookware Sets Pot and Pan Set, Kitchen Cookware Sets, Ceramic Cookware Set, Hard Anodized Cookware Set, Pot Set, Dishwasher Safe, Copper

These pans are supposed to be safe for metal utensils, but I would be wary of testing that claim. They are oven-safe for temps up to 500°F (260°C), and they are also dishwasher-safe.

But if you have an induction stove? You’re out of luck. These Gotham Steel pans lack the stainless steel induction plate of the Copper Chef sets, so you can’t use them with induction.

Pros

  • Includes lots of pieces
  • Hard-anodized construction
  • Dishwasher & oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C)
  • Heat-resistant handles
  • Tempered glass lids

Cons

  • Not induction compatible
  • Easy to scratch

Copper Chef Reviews: FAQs

Are Copper Chef Pans good quality?

A Copper Chef pan is designed to be non-stick cookware free from harmful chemicals and toxins.

If you treat your pans properly and use caution with storing and cleaning, your Copper Chef pan should perform consistently well.

However, non-stick cookware is not designed to last a lifetime. Copper Chef cookware will most likely need replacing after a few years.

If you’re wanting an heirloom piece to pass down through the generations? Copper Chef isn’t for you. You should probably avoid non-stick cookware altogether.

How do you season a Copper Chef Pan?

Copper Chef is lightweight and free from harmful chemicals. It’s ideal for healthy cooking. But like all non-stick cookware, it requires special care.

Normally when people think of seasoning, they think of cast iron. But seasoning a Copper Chef pan is a great way to prolong its life and get the most out of your “copper” pan. Seasoning a non-stick pan seals the pores and helps prevent food from sticking.

The process is fairly simple. First, wash your pan with lukewarm water, mild soap, and a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth. Rinse and let dry completely.

Next, coat the pan with a couple of tablespoons of oil. It’s important to choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or grapeseed oil. Stay away from extra-virgin olive oil, which will begin to burn at a chilly 320°F (160°C).

Once you’ve coated your pan with the oil, you can either put it in the oven up to 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes or heat it on the stove on medium heat. I personally like using the oven for better control over the temperature, but it’s up to you.

Lastly, wait until the oil has completely dried. Wipe away any residue left by the oil. You are now ready to begin using your pan.

If you feel like your Copper Chef pan is starting to stick, you can always re-season it. It’s a good idea to occasionally re-season your non-stick copper cookware to maximize performance.

Can the Copper Chef Pan lid go in the oven?

Yes, but the maximum temperature varies among lids.

The 11-inch (27.94 cm) tempered glass lid can only go up to 350°F (177°C). The same goes for the 8-inch (20.32 cm) glass lid. The 10-inch (25.4 cm) round glass lid, however, can go up to 450°F (232°C).

There is no maximum temperature listed for the other lids, which is a point of frustration. If you’re in doubt, I wouldn’t surpass 350°F (177°C). Better to be safe than sorry.

However, you may contact Copper Chef to inquire about the maximum temperature for your particular tempered glass lid.

Why is my Copper Chef sticking?

Your Copper Chef pan could be sticking for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is failing to season the pan. Copper Chef recommends seasoning their pans before use.

This is not typical for non-stick pans, so it’s easy to forget that important step. Without seasoning, however, Copper Chef cookware is much more likely to stick.

Another common reason a ceramic non-stick pan sticks is because of high heat. It’s best to stick to low or medium heat when using your Copper Chef pan on the stovetop. And since it has great heat retention, you shouldn’t need high heat, anyway.

Additionally, food will stick to cookware if the pan was not preheated. Cooking with a cold pan will draw the oil into the pores and cause food to adhere to the cooking surface. Preheating that ceramic coating is essential before adding oil or butter.

Even though ceramic non-stick cookware is suited for healthier cooking, you still might need to add some oil. This is especially true with sticky or delicate foods like fried eggs or crepes.

But be sure to avoid cooking sprays. That could damage the non-stick coating.

Is the Cerami-tech coating safe?

The Copper Chef Cerami-tech coating uses non-stick technology to release food easily. Copper Chef’s proprietary coating is free of toxic chemicals and questionable polymers, like PTFE.

This ceramic coating is completely safe to use. It’s also non-reactive, meaning you can cook acidic foods like tomato sauce or lemon pasta without worry.

What type of warranty does Copper Chef have?

The short answer? It’s not promising.

While Tristar advertises a 90-day money-back guarantee, it only applies if you buy directly from the manufacturer. They also offer a limited lifetime warranty on products, but you have to pay for shipping the product. And that’s before they decide if they’ll cover it or not.

Customers consistently complained about the warranty. It appears to have more holes than Swiss cheese.

The best thing is to immediately check the product for any defects upon receipt. Keep proof of purchase, and most importantly, be sure to properly use, clean, and care for your Copper Chef cookware.

What is Copper Chef cookware made of?

Don’t let the name mislead you. There is no copper in Copper Chef cookware. The name comes from the color of the Cerami-tech non-stick coating on every pan.

Most Copper Chef pots and pans have an aluminum core with a non-stick coating. The Titan pans have a tri-ply stainless steel and aluminum construction.

The Cerami-tech non-stick coating uses ceramic instead of Teflon to create the non-stick properties of the pans. Ceramic is non-reactive and non-toxic, making it conducive for healthy cooking.

A more accurate description of this cookware would be “copper-colored ceramic non-stick.”

Can you use metal utensils on Copper Chef pans?

Metal utensils are a no-no for most Copper Chef cookware. They can scratch the non-stick and ruin a pan. Instead, stick to wooden or heat-resistant silicone cooking tools.

But there is an exception. The Copper Chef Titan pans claim to be safe for metal utensils. Will you destroy your Titan pan by using a metal spatula? Maybe not, but I wouldn’t risk it. I would still recommend wooden or silicone utensils.

Can you deep fry in a Copper Chef pan?

Several of the fry pans and casserole pans have sides that allow you to fry foods. Several customers reported deep frying foods in their Copper Chef frying pans. However, the results were mixed.

If you want to deep fry food, it’s vital to preheat the pan and the oil to the proper temperature. Use a thermometer to accurately measure oil temperature.

Another tip? Don’t overcrowd the pan. That lowers the temperature and makes it more difficult to get that golden brown finish.

Can I use my Copper Chef pan on the grill?

Yes, but you should be careful when doing so. Stick to the recommended temperature settings and keep a close eye on the food. Also, use oven mitts when handling the pans on the grill.

Final Verdict: Best Copper Chef Pan & Cookware

My recommendation? The Copper Chef Black Diamond set provides the most bang for your buck. It has top-notch performance and great reviews while coming in at a reasonable price point.

Do you just want an individual pan? I like the Copper Chef 10-inch round frying pan. It comes with a lid and gives you the benefit of the Copper Chef Cerami-tech non-stick coating while being affordable and easy to clean.

If you’re still not sure, check out my Teflon-free non-stick pan guide for some alternatives.