Calphalon Reviews: The Best Calphalon Cookware

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I’ve tested the best of Calphalon’s cookware sets and found my favorite. My recommendation? The Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set.

I like Calphalon pots and pans. The Calphalon brand has a good reputation, and its cookware holds up well over time. But with a myriad of cookware products in all types of materials, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

That’s why I’ve rounded up different Calphalon products and broken down the pros and cons for each one.

I’ve found the Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set to be the best in terms of value and performance. These nonstick pans are great for those who enjoy cooking with top-quality non-stick cookware.

But which Calphalon product is right for you? Keep reading my Calphalon Reviews to learn more.

About Calphalon Cookware

Calphalon started in 1963 as a commercial cookware company under the name Commerical Aluminum Cookware. Their founder, Ronald Kasperzak, was a pioneer in developing hard-anodized aluminum cookware using methods adopted from the aerospace industry.

Since its inception, Calphalon has expanded into homes with non-commercial cookware. It’s not just hard-anodized aluminum, either. Additionally, Calphalon manufactures stainless steel, ceramic, and cast iron collections.

In 1998, Newell Brands purchased Calphalon, a corporation that distributes a variety of household brands like Rubbermaid, Ball, and Oster.

Is Calphalon a good brand?

Calphalon is an established brand with a solid reputation for making quality cookware. They offer both premium-level and mid-range cookware collections.

Calphalon specializes in hard-anodized nonstick cookware, selling stainless steel and ceramic non-stick cookware collections. Regardless of cooking habits or budget, you’re likely to find a Calphalon set that fits your needs.

Where is Calphalon cookware made?

Even though Calphalon is a U.S.-based company, they have moved much of their production to China. Some products are still American-made, but the company does not make it easy to find that information.

The best way to find out? Check the product description or check with Calphalon customer service to check individual products.

Calphalon do like to talk about how their cookware is made though.

Best calphalon cookware

Calphalon Reviews

Calphalon Signature 10-Piece Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Best Calphalon Cookware Overall

Calphalon’s Signature set is among the best in hard-anodized nonstick cookware. This 10-piece set includes the following:

  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pan
  • 12-inch (30.48 cm) frying pan
  • 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepan with cover
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan with cover
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) saute pan with cover
  • 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with cover
Calphalon 10-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Nonstick Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Stainless Steel Handles, Dishwasher and Metal Utensil Safe, PFOA-Free, Black

These pieces will cover your basic cooking needs. I like that it includes two frying pans, although it would have been nice to include a lid for the 12-inch (30.48 cm) pan. The covered sauté pan is excellent for one-pot meals, and the two saucepans are a good size.

The heavy-gauge hard-anodized aluminum core means these nonstick pans heat evenly and quickly while simultaneously resisting warping and scratching.

The third layer of non-stick coating provides 1.5 times more durability than the Calphalon Classic collection. Several users raved about the nonstick coating, although some reported chips in the rim.

The brushed stainless steel handles stay cool on the stovetop, and the tempered glass lids with stainless steel rims allow you to monitor food while cooking.

What’s more? These Calphalon Signature pans can handle high heat, and they’re oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C), so they’re perfect for stovetop-to-oven dishes.

For cleaning, you can easily wipe and rinse food off these nonstick pots. They are dishwasher-safe, but they will last longer if you hand wash them.

Likewise, these pans are also metal utensil-safe, but I would use caution. Even the best non-stick surface is susceptible to scratches. For that reason, I would go with wooden or plastic utensils to err on the safe side.

Pros

  • Hard-anodized aluminum construction
  • Triple nonstick layer
  • Oven-safe to 500°F (260°C)
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Metal-utensil safe
  • Stay-cool stainless handles

Cons

  • Not induction-compatible

Calphalon Premier Stackable Nonstick Cookware Set, 15 Pieces: Best Space-Saving Cookware

Calphalon’s Premier collections are on the higher end. This comprehensive cookware set includes a substantial 15 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan
  • 12-inch (30.48 cm) fry pan
  • 2.5-quart (2.37 liters) saucepan with cover
  • 3.5-quart (3.31 liters) saucepan with cover
  • 4.5-quart (4.26 liters) soup pan with cover
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with cover
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) sauteuse with cover
  • 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with cover
Calphalon 15-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Stackable Nonstick Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Stainless Steel Handles, Black

These Calphalon pans feature a heavy-gauge hard-anodized aluminum body with a triple layer non-stick coating. The stainless steel handles are riveted and remain cool during stovetop use.

These nonstick pans have flat lids of tempered glass that save 30% more space when stacked, according to Calphalon.

The Premier Space Saving set is oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C), making it usable for most stovetop-to-oven dishes. But if you have an induction cooktop? You’re out of luck. This pan set is suitable for all stovetops except induction.

Calphalon advertises this set as safe for metal utensils. Users had mixed results, with some experiencing scratches and others having no problems. If in doubt, use wooden or silicone utensils just to make sure.

When it comes to cleaning, you can put these pans in the dishwasher. Several customers cleaned these in the dishwasher without issues. But most said the non-stick was so good a simple wipe would suffice.

Unlike most nonstick cookware, these Calphalon pans are quite heavy. A lot of users commented on the weight. If you want lightweight cookware, these pans aren’t for you.

Want more information? Let’s take a closer look:

Pros

  • Hard-anodized aluminum core
  • Stackable, space-saving
  • Triple nonstick surface
  • Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
  • Dishwasher safe, easy to clean
  • Metal utensil safe

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not induction-compatible

Calphalon Premier Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Pots and Pans, 11-Piece Cookware Set: Best Stainless Steel Set

Calphalon’s Premier collections not only include hard-anodized aluminum cookware. This Premier line includes 11 stainless steel pieces:

  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) & 12-inch (30.48 cm) frying pans
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) covered saucepan
  • 2.5-quart (2.37 liters) covered saucepan
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with cover
  • 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with cover
Calphalon 11-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Stainless Steel Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Handles, Dishwasher Safe, Silver

These high-quality pots and pans feature a fully-clad tri-ply construction. That means each piece has two layers of stainless steel surrounding an aluminum core.

These layers help these pans distribute heat evenly, so you don’t have to worry about hot spots. They also help these pans heat more quickly than plain stainless steel.

The tempered glass lids allow you to monitor food while cooking. The stainless steel handles stay cool to the touch on the stovetop.

With a maximum oven temperature of 450°F (232°C), you can use these on the stove or in the oven. And unlike some of the other Calphalon cookware, this stainless steel set works on induction cooktops.

To top it all off? This set comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which is longer than the 10-year warranty covering other Calphalon cookware lines.

However, you should be aware that these are not quite as easy to clean as the nonstick pans. If you preheat your stainless steel pans, avoid high heat on the stovetop, you should have an easier time of it.

Of course, these are also dishwasher safe, so there’s that option. But several customers recommended keeping Bar Keeper’s Friend handy in case of stains or stubborn spots. You might have to use a bit more elbow grease, but these pans should stay nice and shiny for a long time.

Pros

  • Fully-clad tri-ply construction
  • Oven-safe to 450°F (232°C)
  • Metal utensil safe
  • Tempered glass lids
  • Induction-compatible
  • Limited Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not non-stick

Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel Cookware, 8-Inch Skillet: Best Individual Piece

The Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel set is top-notch, but it may be out of your price range. If I had to choose a single piece from that set, I would go with the 8-inch frying pan.

Although this piece is on the smaller side, it gives you maximum versatility. It can go in the oven up to 450°F (232°C), and it’s compatible with all cooktops, including induction.

It’s also safe for metal utensils and the dishwasher. Plus, it comes with a tempered glass lid so you can cover and cook.

Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel Cookware, 8-Inch Fry Pan

The heavy-gauge aluminum core is surrounded by two layers of stainless steel, which heats quickly and evenly for exceptional browning, searing, and sautéing.

And while this cookware piece is not the least expensive option out there, it’s more affordable than Calphalon’s Signature hard-anodized skillet.

But if you have your heart set on non-stick pans? This one’s not it. Using proper stainless steel techniques can reduce sticking, but this won’t release food like nonstick cookware.

Pros

  • Tri-ply stainless steel
  • Includes tempered glass lid
  • Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Safe for metal tools
  • Induction compatible

Cons

  • On the smaller side
  • Not non-stick

Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Covered 3-Quart Sauté: Single Piece Runner-Up

This Calphalon Classic 3-quart sauté has loads of features that make it an appealing pick. Its stainless steel construction has a multi-layer base of aluminum and stainless steel. This impact-bonded base gives this skillet excellent heat distribution.

The glass lid allows you to see food while cooking, and the stainless steel handle is ergonomic. This sauté can go in the oven at temperatures up to 450°F (232°C). And it’s compatible with most cooktops, even induction.

Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Saute Pan, 3 Quart, Silver,2095189

As far as cleanup? Easy. You can put this cookware piece in the dishwasher or hand wash. Although it’s not nonstick cookware, you can reduce sticking by preheating the skillet and using a little oil or butter.

I like the inner measurement markings, although they aren’t quite as handy on a sauté as on a saucepan.

The price on this piece isn’t as easy on the budget as some other options. But with the value this sauté provides, it earned the runner-up spot for individual pieces.

Pros

  • Stainless steel with impact-bonded base
  • Glass lid
  • Ergonomic handles
  • Oven-safe to 450°F (232°C)
  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Interior measurement markings
  • Induction-compatible

Cons

  • Not full-clad
  • More expensive

Calphalon Classic Oil-Infused Ceramic PTFE and PFOA Free Cookware, 11-Piece Pots and Pans Set: Best for Healthy Cooking

This Calphalon Classic cookware comes in a dark gray color and includes the following 11 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pans
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 2.5-quart (2.37 liters) saucepans with lid
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté with cover
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with cover
  • 12-inch (30.48 cm) round griddle 
Calphalon 11-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Oil-Infused Ceramic Cookware with Stay-Cool Handles, PTFE- and PFOA-Free, Dark Grey

This cookware is constructed with hard-anodized aluminum and has a stick-resistant ceramic layer for the cooking surface.

One advantage of these pans over other Calphalon nonstick cookware is that it does not contain PTFE (a.k.a. Teflon). The non-stick ceramic coating is sand-based, perfect for people who want natural, non-toxic cookware.

Additionally, Calphalon claims you don’t need oil or butter to cook with these pans, making them great for healthy cooking. The user reviews were mixed regarding that claim. Several people said they could reduce the amount of cooking fat they used, while others complained of food sticking.

These pans are oven-safe for temps up to 450°F (232°C), making them versatile. The tempered glass lids mean you can easily keep an eye on food, and the stainless steel handles stay cool to the touch while cooking.

Clean-up is a cinch with the oil-infused ceramic non-stick coating. But if you were hoping to pop these pans in the dishwasher? You’ll be disappointed. These are hand wash only.

You should also skip the metal utensils. They could scratch or damage the ceramic non-stick. Still, if you’re

Pros

  • PTFE-free ceramic nonstick coating
  • Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
  • Tempered glass lids
  • Stay-cool stainless steel handles
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not induction-compatible
  • Not dishwasher-safe
  • Not safe for metal utensils
  • Reports of sticking

I’ve reviewed more ceramic cookware sets if you are interested in alternatives.

Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Inch Fry Pan: Best for Omelets

Like the idea of nonstick cookware but don’t want an entire set? Calphalon does sell individual pieces, and this 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan is part of the Calphalon Signature hard-anodized aluminum collection. This nonstick pan has a triple layer coating over a hard-anodized core.

This non-stick skillet is oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C), making it great for omelets and frittatas. And for clean up? This pan can go in the dishwasher, although handwashing will prolong its life.

Calphalon Nonstick Frying Pan with Stay-Cool Handles, Dishwasher and Metal Utensil Safe, PFOA-Free, 10-Inch, Black

Calphalon advertises this skillet as safe for metal utensils. However, many of the negative reviews resulted from scratches on the cooking surface by–you guessed it–metal cooking tools. To get the most out of this pan, use non-metal cooking utensils.

This Calphalon pan is on the pricier side, and it does not include a lid. But if you take care of it properly, it should last for a long time. That being said, you might be able to find other options that provide more value.

Pros

  • Hard-anodized aluminum core
  • Non-stick
  • Oven-safe to 500°F (260°C)
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Reports of scratching with metal utensils
  • No lid included
  • A bit pricey

Calphalon Nonstick Cookware, Classic Ceramic 12-inch Fry Pan with Cover: Best Large Capacity Skillet

This oil-infused ceramic nonstick pan is 12 inches, making it one of the larger single pieces. It can undoubtedly handle one-pot meals and family-sized recipes.

Plus, it comes with a tempered glass lid so you can cover dishes and monitor food while cooking.

This skillet is oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C), so you can use it for stovetop-to-oven dishes. The brushed stainless steel handles stay cool while cooking on the stovetop.

Calphalon Ceramic Frying Pan, Nonstick Oil-Infused Cookware with Stay-Cool Handles, PTFE and PFOA-Free, Dark Gray

You cannot use this ceramic nonstick skillet with induction stovetops. There were some reports of warping and an uneven base, which could cause issues on an induction cooktop. Others reported having no problems.

Cleaning this skillet is easy due to the oil-infused ceramic nonstick layer, but it cannot go in the dishwasher.

When it comes to price, this nonstick pan is rather expensive. I would probably go with another option that gives more value. Still, if you need a covered skillet that can accommodate larger recipes, this 12-inch nonstick pan is your best option.

Pros

  • Large capacity
  • Ceramic non-stick
  • Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
  • Includes a lid

Cons

  • Reports of uneven bottom
  • Not induction-compatible
  • Expensive

Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Pots and Pans, 10-Piece Cookware Set: Best Budget Stainless

These Calphalon stainless steel pots come from the Classic collection. It’s a step-down from the Premier set, but it still offers a lot of value. This set comes with 11 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pans
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 2.5-quart (2.37 liters) saucepans with lid
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with cover
  • 7-quart (6.62 liters) Dutch oven with cover
Calphalon 10-Piece Pots and Pans Set, Stainless Steel Kitchen Cookware with Stay-Cool Handles and Pour Spouts, Dishwasher Safe, Silver

The Calphalon Classic stainless steel set features an impact-bonded aluminum base encapsulated with two layers of stainless steel.

This base achieves two objectives. First, it helps the pan heat quickly and evenly. These pots and pans won’t have the performance of fully-clad cookware, but they will outperform a basic stainless steel pan.

Additionally, the aluminum base makes this cookware compatible with induction stovetops. Of course, you can also use this cookware on an electric, ceramic, or gas stove.

The brushed stainless steel handles stay cool on the stove but can handle oven temps up to 450°F (232°C), making this set versatile.

One feature that separated these pans from other pans was the interior measuring marks. That’s a convenient feature for soups, sauces, and other recipes that might require reducing or precise measuring.

Another unique feature: The saucepans’ pour spouts and straining lids make this set ideal for draining pasta or pouring sauces.

If you like to make sauces or want the benefits of tri-ply stainless steel on a budget, I would recommend this Calphalon Classic stainless steel set.

Pros

  • Impact-bonded base
  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Safe for metal utensils
  • Oven-safe to 450°F (232°C)
  • Pour spouts and straining lids on saucepans
  • Interior measuring marks
  • More affordable vs. Calphalon Premier

Cons

  • Not full-clad (only has layers in base)
  • Not non-stick

Calphalon Nonstick Bakeware, 6 Pieces: Best for Baking

In addition to cookware, Calphalon also manufactures bakeware sets. This particular set includes a 12-cup muffin tin, 9×13-inch (22.86×33.02 cm) cake pan, medium loaf pan, cookie sheet, and two 8-inch (20.32 cm) round cake tins.

The heavy-gauge steel core resists warping and heats evenly. The nonstick coating helps easily release cakes, cookies, and other baked goods. You can put these bakeware pieces in the oven up to 450°F (232°C).

While these are dishwasher-safe, they are prone to scratching. Be sure to use only wooden or plastic utensils on this bakeware. Even though these pans provide good value, don’t expect them to last a lifetime.

Pros

  • Nonstick surface
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Small set
  • Prone to scratches

More Calphalon Cookware Reviews

I’ve reviewed many Calphalon cookware pieces and sets, and compared them with their competitors. Here are some of the articles I’ve written about Calphalon:

Calphalon Cookware Reviews: Which product is the best?

Want the best in terms of versatility, affordability, and performance? I’d go with the Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set. Calphalon is unsurpassed in hard-anodized nonstick cookware, and this set should last for a long time.

Want to see hard-anodized cookware from other brands? Then see my hard-anodized guide.

How about if nonstick pans aren’t your thing? The Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel pots and pans are an excellent alternative. They’re great for oven-use, stovetop use, and can stand up to the dishwasher and metal tools.

However, if you can only pick one piece, I’d go with the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Frying Pan. This high-quality piece of stainless steel cookware provides excellent value.