Viking is a leading name in professional-grade appliances, but they have expanded their luxury products to include cookware lines.
The highest quality cookware can be pretty expensive, but it’s an investment. I am willing to pay more for cookware that will perform well and last a lifetime, but I never want to waste money on something that doesn’t live up to the hype.
Viking cookware is a relative newcomer on the market, but it is up to the standard of the Viking ranges and other appliances? I’ve broken down the various Viking cookware lines and their performance, features, and durability. I’ve also rounded up some comparable competitors, All-Clad and Le Creuset.
Keep reading this Viking Cookware review for the full scoop.
Contents
At a Glance
Viking’s stainless steel cookware might be more well-known, but they manufacture several lines of cookware using a variety of cookware materials.
For a quick breakdown of each Viking cookware set, reference the chart below:
| Viking Cookware Line | Features | Recommendation |
Hard-Anodized Non-stick
| Hard-anodized aluminum PTFE non-stick coating Tempered glass lids Induction compatible Dishwasher safe (hand wash recommended) Internal measurement markings Stay-cool ergonomic handle Oven-safe to 500°F/260°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in China | Solid set with durable non-stick and good performance Versatile and can handle high oven temps. Similar in quality and price to All-Clad options and other high-end brands. Do you recommend it? Yes. |
Tri-Ply Stainless Steel
| Tri-ply stainless with aluminum core 18/8 ss cooking surfaceInduction compatible Glass lids Internal measurement markings Stay-cool ergonomic handle Oven-safe to 600°F/315°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in China | Good cooking surface and performanceIt should be long-lasting and durableAll-Clad is made in USA and has only slightly more favorable reviews, but is also way more expensive Do you recommend it? Yes. |
5-Ply Stainless Steel
| 5-ply stainless with triple-layer aluminum core 18/10 ss cooking surface Induction compatible Dishwasher-safe (hand wash recommended) Stainless lids Stay-cool ergonomic handle Oven-safe to 600°F/315°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in USA | Made in USA and excellent quality Long-lasting & durable ss cooking surface Heats evenly and quickly All-Clad 5-ply set is just as good, but way more affordable. Do you recommend it? No. I recommend All Clad instead. |
Tri-Ply Hammered Copper
| Tri-ply copper, aluminum, stainless steel 18/8 ss cooking surface Not for induction Vented glass lid Internal measurement markings Oven-safe to 600°F/315°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in China | Decent set, but the copper layer is thin Not as versatile as other Viking sets Good for oven dishes Requires a lot of upkeep for appearance Do you recommend it? No. (Not unless you want copper for purely decorative reasons) For decent copper cookware, consider Mauviel. |
Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
| Cast iron construction Enamel coated cooking surface No seasoning required Induction compatible Helper handle Oven safe to 400°F/204°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in China | Good quality and durable construction, but low maximum temp limits its usability. You’d be better going with a more expensive Le Creuset or sticking with regular cast iron. Do you recommend it? No. I recommend Le Creuset. |
Enameled Cast Iron Dutch oven
| Cast iron construction Enamel coated cooking surface No seasoning required Round shape Induction compatible Self-basting lid Oven safe to 400°F/204°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in China | Okay, for stovetop soups and dishes, but low maximum temp not suitable for oven use.You’d be better going with a more expensive Le Creuset or sticking with regular cast iron. Do you recommend it? No. I recommend Le Creuset. |
Blue Carbon Steel Pan
| Blue carbon steel, treated for rust resistanceInduction compatible Requires seasoning Cast iron stay-cool handle Oven safe to 450°F/232°C Limited Lifetime Warranty Made in China | Good quality set with favorable reviews Durable carbon steel and relatively versatile Does require seasoning, but the process is easy Should last a long time Do you recommend it? Yes. |
About Viking Cookware
Viking was established over 30 years ago in Greenwood, Mississippi. They introduced the professional-grade gas range for the home.
Viking’s luxury ranges have been enjoyed by professional chefs and home cooks alike. In addition to ranges, Viking makes range hoods, refrigerators, dishwashers, outdoor grills, and more.
More recently, Viking introduced cookware collections through a subsidiary called Viking Culinary. Viking Culinary sells cookware, bakeware, knives, cooking utensils, and more.
Is Viking a Good Brand?
Viking is a premium brand, and their cookware is of good quality. There are plenty of alternatives out there, and some provide more value. But you can rest assured you’re getting a solid piece of cookware with Viking.
All Viking cookware comes with the manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty. This warranty covers defects but not much else. For that reason, it’s crucial to follow the proper use and care instructions.
Where is Viking Cookware Made?
Viking’s 5-Ply Professional stainless cookware line is manufactured in the USA, but most Viking cookware lines are made in China.
This was one of the biggest customer complaints regarding the cookware lines. Many were surprised to learn that Viking cookware, unlike the gas range, is not manufactured in the U.S.
If purchasing American-made products is important to you, you’ll have to stick to the 5-Ply Professional stainless steel collection.
Viking Pots and Pans Review
Viking Non-stick Cookware, Hard-Anodized Culinary Set, 10 Pieces: Best Overall
For those that want non-stick cookware, Viking offers a hard-anodized non-stick cookware set. This 10-piece set includes:
- 10-inch (25.4 cm) & 12-inch (30.48 cm) fry pans
- 2-quart (1.89 liters) & 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepans with glass lids
- 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with glass lid
- 4.5-quart (4.26 liters) covered sauté pan
This cookware features hard-anodized aluminum construction, giving it extra durability and scratch resistance. The triple layer non-stick coating is on the interior cooking surface, helping food release without a fuss.
The non-stick does include PTFE (the active ingredient in Teflon). If PTFE is a deal-breaker for you, I would go with another set.
This set is compatible with all cooktops, including induction cooktops. It’s also oven-safe for temperatures up to 500°F (260°C).
The Viking hard-anodized non-stick set includes tempered glass lids that are oven-safe up to 350°F (177°C). Some users did say that the lids get hot on the stove, so use caution when handling them.
One nice feature is the measurement markings on the interior of the saucepans and Dutch oven. That’s helpful for soups, sauces, and other liquid-based recipes.
Several customers noted how heavy these pots and pans are. This cookware is solid, unlike a lot of non-stick cookware. However, it’s not ideal for those who have trouble lifting heavy pans.
The nice thing is that the weight helps with heat distribution. This pan will heat evenly and relatively quickly.
When it comes to cleaning? You’ll need to hand wash these pans. But the non-stick coating makes cleanup an easy task, even without using the dishwasher.
Also, be sure to use wooden or plastic cooking utensils. Metal utensils could scratch the cookware.
Some customers received dented pieces or lids that didn’t fit. But they said the company replaced the parts without hassle.
Overall, customers loved this Viking hard-anodized non-stick cookware set.
Pros
- Hard-anodized aluminum body
- Oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C)
- Even heat distribution
- Interior measurement markings
- Induction-compatible
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Hand washing recommended
- Not metal utensil safe
Viking Culinary Hard-Anodized Non-Stick Fry Pan
Don’t need an entire cookware set? Viking also has this 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan. They have a 10-inch (25.4 cm) and 12-inch (30.48 cm) version, as well.
It features the same hard-anodized aluminum core and triple layer non-stick coating as the 10-piece set. The flared rims make for easy pouring. Some people complained it was a little off-balance on their stovetop burners, but most were pleased with the performance.
This single piece gives you a lot of value. You get the quality of Viking cookware at a reasonable price, especially when compared with other brands.
Check out my roundup for more affordable hard-anodized cookware options.
Viking Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 13-Piece Cookware Set: Best Budget Pick
Viking’s Tri-Ply set has a sleek mirror finish and includes a substantial 13 pieces. It comes with the following:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pans
- 2.25-quart (2.13 liters) & 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepans with glass lids
- 4-quart (3.79 liters) soup pot with lid
- 5.25-quart (4.97 liters) casserole with lid
- 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with lid
- stainless steel pasta insert
This triple-ply cookware features a magnetic stainless steel exterior, an aluminum core, and an 18/8 surgical-grade stainless steel interior.
The exterior stainless steel layer means this cookware is compatible with induction cooktops. The aluminum core gives this pan good heat distribution, and the stainless steel interior cooking surface is scratch-resistant and non-reactive.
Another benefit of stainless steel? Better heat retention. For that reason, you don’t have to cook at such high temperatures. Lor to medium heat should be sufficient.
These pots and pans have vented tempered glass lids, and the handles are ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip.
What’s more? This Viking cookware set is dishwasher safe and oven-safe up to 600°F (315°C). The lids can go up to 400°F (204°C).
Like other Viking cookware sets, this one is heavy. That’s not unusual for multi-clad cookware but still good to know.
Some users complained of discoloration after a few uses, but others had no trouble at all.
As with all stainless steel, it’s a good idea to occasionally use a cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend to get rid of any stains and keep the stainless steel nice and shiny.
Pros
- Tri-ply stainless steel construction
- Oven-safe up to 600°F (315°C)
- See-through glass lid
- Induction compatible
- Stay-cool handles
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Made in China
- Some reports of discoloration
Viking 3-Ply Stainless Steel Fry Pan, 10-Inch
For those that prefer a single pan, this 10-inch (25.4 cm) Viking frying pan features an aluminum middle layer sandwiched between two stainless steel layers. There is also an 8-inch (20.32 cm) and 12-inch (30.48 cm) option.
This tri-ply frying pan is dishwasher safe. It can also handle oven and broiler temps up to 600°F (315°C). The ergonomic stainless steel handle is double riveted.
The only issue? Some people complained that the pan’s weight distribution was off, so it was susceptible to tipping.
It’s also essential to make sure the base of the pan completely covers the burner, especially on a gas stove. Otherwise, the flame could discolor the stainless steel exterior.
Viking Professional 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 10 Piece: Best Splurge
The Viking Professional 5-Ply Stainless Steel set is manufactured in the U.S. and includes 10 pieces:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pans
- 2-quart (1.89 liters) & 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepans with lids
- 8-quart stockpot (7.57 liters) with lid
- 3.4-quart (3.22 liters) sauté pan with lid
The Viking Professional cookware set features a 5-ply construction. The polished stainless steel exterior is magnetic, making it compatible with induction cooktops.
An aluminum alloy bonds to the middle layer of pure aluminum. Then another layer of aluminum alloy is bonded to the 18/10 surgical grade stainless steel cooking surface.
The multiple layers of aluminum maximize heat transfer. The stainless steel gives this cookware a durable cooking surface. It’s also non-reactive and retains heat well.
And since the pans have good heat conduction, you don’t have to use high heat to reach your desired cooking temperature. Lower heat means lower energy usage. A nice perk, for sure.
One difference between this set and other Viking cookware sets is the lids. While other Viking collections feature domed tempered glass lids, these pans have stainless steel lids.
A tempered glass lid allows you to monitor food, but it can’t handle the oven temperatures of a stainless lid.
Speaking of which, this Viking professional cookware set is oven-safe for temperatures up to 600°F (315°C). It’s also dishwasher safe, although Viking recommends washing these pots and pans by hand.
This Viking stainless steel cookware had great reviews. A few people were disappointed this set wasn’t non-stick, but stainless steel will never be like non-stick.
To get the most out of your stainless steel cookware, be sure to use low to medium heat. Always preheat your pan before adding food or cooking oil.
To know if a pan is sufficiently preheated, sprinkle droplets of water into the pan. If they sizzle and roll around the cooking surface? You’re ready to get cooking.
Overall, the Viking cookware reviews for this set were glowing. The heat retention, durability, and performance were well-rated.
But with all of these benefits comes a steep price, literally. You should expect to pay significantly more for this set than the rest of Viking’s cookware lines.
Pros
- Made in the U.S.
- 5-ply durable construction
- Induction compatible
- Oven-safe up to 600°F (315°C)
- Dishwasher-safe (hand wash recommended)
- Good heat transfer and heat distribution
- Stay-cool ergonomic handles
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not non-stick
- Significantly more expensive
Viking Professional 5-Ply Stainless Steel Frying Pan, 12-Inch
Not ready to splurge on an entire 5-ply professional set? You can snag this 12-inch (30.48 cm) stainless steel frying pan. There are also 8-inch (20.32 cm), and 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pans available. The frying pan does not come with a lid.
It has the same features as the 10-piece 5-ply set. Multiple layers of aluminum are sandwiched between stainless steel layers. It has the same polished stainless steel interior and ergonomic handle.
You can use this set in the oven up to 600°F (315°C), and it’s induction compatible.
This is the level of quality professional chefs have in their kitchens. But with that quality comes a substantial price tag.
Viking Culinary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Clad Cookware Set, 10 Piece: Most Attractive Set
There’s just something about copper cookware that adds elegance to a kitchen. This Viking tri-ply copper cookware set features a beautiful hammered copper finish that will look great in any kitchen. This set comes with 10 pieces:
- 8-inch (20.32 cm) & 10-inch (25.4) fry pans
- 2.25-quart (2.13 liters) saucepan with lid
- 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan with lid
- 5.2-quart (4.92 liters) sauté pan with lid
- 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with lid
These Viking pots and pans have a durable copper exterior and a stainless steel cooking surface, with a layer of aluminum in between.
The copper exterior helps get precise temperature control and even heating. The aluminum layer provides excellent heat transfer, while the stainless steel cooking surface is non-reactive and has superb heat retention.
While this Viking copper cookware is pretty, it’s not compatible with induction cooktops. It is oven-safe up to 600°F (315°C), however. The vented glass lids can handle oven temps up to 400°F (204°C).
Reviewers loved the heat distribution of this Viking cookware set. Some didn’t like the patina the copper exterior developed after a while, but that’s normal with copper cookware.
One user suggested cleaning the exterior with lemon and salt after each use as a polish.
As far as price? It’s important to know that copper is one of the most expensive cookware materials out there. And even though these Viking pots and pans are pricey, they’re pretty reasonable compared with other copper cookware sets.
However, that’s likely because the copper layer is quite thin. It will look nice, but it won’t give you the same level of quality as a Mauviel cookware set.
Pros
- Beautiful copper exterior
- Vented glass lids
- Internal measurement markings
- Oven-safe up to 600°F (315°C)
- Superb heat distribution
- Reasonable price for copper
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Not compatible with induction stoves
- Keeping copper polished is higher maintenance
Viking Culinary Viking Enamel Cast Iron, 12-Inch Round Fry Pan with Helper Handle: Best Large Capacity Single Pan
As an alternative to the other Viking sets is this enameled cast iron skillet. Viking offers this pan in a 12-inch (30.48 cm) or 10-inch (25.4 cm) option.
The glossy charcoal-colored enamel is non-reactive, so unlike regular cast iron, you can cook acidic foods in this frying pan without worry. The enamel coating is on both the exterior and interior surfaces of the pan.
This pan is hefty, so you’ll want to be prepared. The helper handle and pour spouts make it easier to drain and serve, though. Because the long handle is bare cast iron, you’ll want to hold it using oven mitts or potholders.
Although Viking claims this pan is safe for metal utensils, I would still avoid it. I would stick with wooden or heat-resistant silicone cooking utensils. This will protect your pan from chips or scratches.
This pan is oven-safe for temperatures up to 400°F (204°C), so it won’t handle as high a heat as the stainless steel or hard-anodized aluminum non-stick sets. But it is compatible with all stovetops and has good heat retention.
When it comes to cleaning, this cast iron frying pan is not dishwasher-safe. You should always hand wash cast iron cookware.
While this piece is more affordable than other high-end cookware brands, you’ll still pay a lot more than you would for a regular cast iron fry pan.
Pros
- Enameled cast iron construction
- No seasoning required
- Oven-safe
- Helper handle and pour spouts
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Heavy
- More expensive than regular cast iron
- Max temp is low (400°F/204°C)
- Hand wash only
Viking Culinary Blue Carbon Steel Frying Pan, 10-Inch: Best Single Piece
If you thought we’d exhausted all the Viking cookware set materials, you’d be mistaken. In addition to stainless steel, copper, hard-anodized aluminum, and cast iron, Viking also produces a line of carbon steel cookware, like this skillet.
Carbon steel is a relative newcomer on the cookware scene. It is an alloy of iron and carbon that’s lighter and smoother than cast iron. It also has a smoother surface.
Viking uses blue carbon steel for this cookware set. Blue carbon steel has been treated to help resist rust and corrosion, a common problem for cast iron pans.
This 10-inch (25.4 cm) skillet comes in a sleek black with a double-riveted cast iron handle. The handle stays cool on the stovetop and is double riveted for extra strength.
The blue carbon steel means this pan can handle higher heat. It’s safe for oven use up to 450°F (232°C). Plus, it’s compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
But if you thought you could skip the seasoning process? Think again. You still have to season this pan for it to maintain its non-stick properties.
To season this pan, add oil to your pan and heat it on medium for about 10 minutes. Let cool and wipe with a paper towel.
For cleaning, you’ll have to hand wash this fry pan. The dishwasher could break down the seasoning. Be sure to avoid metal utensils when using this pan. This will also protect the seasoning.
If your pan starts to lose its non-stick properties, simply reseason the pan.
Pros
- Blue carbon steel construction
- Stay cool cast iron handle
- Induction compatible
- Heats evenly and quickly
- Oven-safe up to 450°F (232°C)
- Rust and scratch-resistant
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Requires seasoning
- Hand wash only
- Not safe for metal tools
Viking Culinary Viking Enamel Cast Iron, 7-Quart Dutch Oven: Best for Soups
This Viking 7-quart (6.62 liters) Dutch oven is one of the only Dutch ovens listed. There is also a 5-quart (4.73 liters) option available.
Most sets opt for a sauté pan or casserole dish but skip this piece. That’s why I like this charcoal-colored enamel cast iron Dutch oven.
It’s large enough to roast a 4 to 6 lb. chicken or make a large batch of soup. In fact, reviewers had success with both of those dishes.
With a maximum oven temperature of only 400°F (204°C), however, it’s not as suited for baking bread. Many bread recipes require temps of 450°F (232°C) and upward.
It features a glossy, non-reactive enamel interior, making this pot naturally stick-resistant. Viking even claims it’s metal utensil safe, but I would use wooden or silicone tools.
The cast iron interior gives this Dutch oven excellent heat transfer and distribution. And with a self-basting lid, it’s great for slow roasting meats without drying them out.
Several reviewers commented on the weight of this Viking Dutch oven. It’s a sturdy piece, to be sure. But if you need something lightweight, this isn’t going to be it.
Pros
- Cast iron body retains heat
- Stick-resistant enamel coating
- Self-basting lid
- Induction compatible
- Safe for oven, grill, and stove
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Heavy
- Max temp is low (400°F/204°C)
- Pricier than regular cast iron
Viking vs. All-Clad Cookware: All-Clad Alternatives
When someone mentions premium cookware brands, All-Clad comes to mind. Just like Viking, All-Clad manufactures a wide range of high-end cookware. Unlike Viking, however, most of All-Clad’s cookware is made in the U.S.A.
The Pennsylvania-based company has been in the cookware market for 50 years. All-Clad emphasizes using the best stainless steel materials to make durable and long-lasting cookware.
But when it comes to Viking vs. All-Clad cookware, which one prevails? Read the analysis of All-Clad’s similar sets and how they compare to Viking cookware.
All-Clad Hard-Anodized Non-stick Cookware Set, 13 Pieces, Black
This All-Clad cookware set features a heavy-gauge anodized aluminum and a triple-layer non-stick coating. Like the Viking cookware set, this non-stick surface does include PTFE (i.e., Teflon).
This cookware set includes 3 fry pans, 2 saucepans with a glass lid, a covered sauté pan, a 4-quart (3.89 liters) soup pot with lid, and a covered stockpot.
It has a stainless steel base bonded to the hard-anodized aluminum exterior to make this set induction compatible.
All the pans are safe for oven temps up to 500°F (260°C), and they feature stainless steel stay-cool handles. You can put these pans in the dishwasher, but hand washing is recommended to preserve the non-stick coating.
| Feature | Viking Hard-Anodized Non-stick | All-Clad Hard-Anodized Non-stick |
| Construction | Hard-anodized aluminum with non-stick coating | Hard-anodized aluminum with non-stick coating |
| Induction compatible? | Yes | Yes |
| Max Oven Temp | 500°F (260°C) | 500°F (260°C) |
| Lids | Glass | Glass |
| Made in USA or China | China | China |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
Final Verdict: These two sets are very similar in quality and price. The Viking cookware reviews are slightly more positive, so I would probably opt for the Viking non-stick cookware set.
All-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Professional-Grade Cookware Set, 10-Piece
All-Clad’s tri-ply cookware set features two stainless steel layers with a middle layer of aluminum.
The 10-piece set includes 2 fry pans, 8 inches (20.32 cm) and 10 inches (25.4 cm); 2-quart (1.89 liters) saucepan with glass lid, 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan with glass lid; 3-quart (2.84 liters) covered sauté pan, and 8-quart (7.57 liters) stockpot with lid.
While this set is dishwasher safe, handwashing is recommended. Customers liked the heat distribution and the shiny finish. These pans heat up quickly, so you don’t need high heat.
| Feature | Viking Tri-Ply Stainless Steel | All-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel |
| Construction | 2 stainless layers, aluminum core | 2 stainless layers, aluminum core |
| Induction compatible? | Yes | Yes |
| Max Oven Temp | 600°F (315°C) | 600°F (315°C) |
| Lids | Glass | Stainless |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) |
| Made in USA or China | China | USA |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
Final Verdict: These two sets have quite similar specs, but the two major differences are country of origin and price.
While the Viking set is made in China, the All-Clad tri-ply stainless steel cookware set is made in the U.S. The large price difference reflects that. You’ll get better quality with the All-Clad set, but the price tag can be prohibitive.
All-Clad Brushed 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set, Professional-Grade, 10-Piece
All-Clad also offers this 5-Ply stainless steel cookware set. Three layers of stainless steel alternate between 2 layers of aluminum to give this pan durability and superb heat transfer.
This 10-piece cookware set includes an 8-inch (20.32 cm) and 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan, 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) saucepan with lid, 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan with lid, 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with lid, and 5.5-quart (5.20 liters) covered Dutch oven.
| Feature | Viking 5-Ply Stainless Steel | All-Clad 5-Ply Stainless Steel |
| Construction | 2 stainless layers surrounding 3 aluminum layers | Alternating 3 stainless layers and 2 aluminum layers |
| Induction compatible? | Yes | Yes |
| Max Oven Temp | 600°F (315°C) | 600°F (315°C) |
| Lids | Stainless | Stainless |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) |
| Made in USA or China | USA | USA |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
Final Verdict: The Viking 5-ply stainless steel set and the All-Clad 5-ply set are almost identical in specifications and quality. The only difference? Viking is significantly more expensive. For this reason, I’d go with the All-Clad set.
Viking vs. Le Creuset: Le Creuset Alternatives
First among the names in enameled cast iron cookware is Le Creuset. This French company has been handcrafting pots and pans for almost a century. Le Creuset’s products are still largely made in France, and they come in an array of iconic color choices.
But the steep price tag of Le Creuset is not so attractive. Are Viking products a reasonable alternative? Keep reading to learn more.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle Skillet
This Le Creuset Signature skillet is sturdy and durable, with a diameter of 11.75 inches (29.85 cm). It comes in several bright color choices.
This Le Creuset skillet can work with any cooktop, including induction. It also has a maximum oven temperature of 500°F (260°C), so it’s great for stovetop to oven dishes.
The black enamel interior does not require seasoning, so you can start cooking with this pan right away. While the pan does not have a non-stick coating, the enamel is stick-resistant. This means food should lift relatively easily, especially when compared with stainless steel.
| Feature | Viking Enamel Cast Iron Skillet | Le Creuset Enamel Cast Iron Skillet |
| Construction | Enamel cast iron | Enamel cast iron |
| Color options | Charcoal only | Multiple colors available |
| Induction compatible? | Yes | Yes |
| Max Oven Temp | 400°F (204°C) | 500°F (260°C) |
| Helper handle? | Yes | Yes |
| Cleaning | Hand wash | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) |
| Country of origin | China | France |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
Final Verdict: I would go with the Le Creuset. Even though it’s more expensive, its reputation is impeccable, and it can handle higher oven temperatures.
The Viking just isn’t versatile enough to justify the cost. If you want something affordable, you’d be better off going with a bare cast iron skillet.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Dutch Oven, 8 quarts, Flame
Le Creuset is known more for its Dutch ovens than any other piece of cookware. This 8-quart (7.57 liters) oval Dutch oven comes in a variety of attractive colors.
The enamel coating does not require seasoning, and the light-colored interior means you can easily monitor food while it’s cooking.
The oval shape is ideal for oven dishes like bread or roast. And with a maximum temperature of 500°F (260°C), you can use it with any recipe, even those requiring high heat.
Le Creuset claims this oval Dutch oven is dishwasher safe and okay for metal cooking tools, but I would caution against doing that.
If you’re going to spend the money on a Le Creuset Dutch oven, you want it to last a long time. The best way to do that is to hand wash your cookware and use wooden or heat-resistant silicone cooking utensils.
| Feature | Viking Enamel Cast Iron Dutch oven | Le Creuset Enamel Cast Iron Dutch oven |
| Construction | Enamel cast iron | Enamel cast iron |
| Color options | Charcoal only | Multiple colors available |
| Induction compatible? | Yes | Yes |
| Max Oven Temp | 400°F (204°C) | 600°F (315°C) |
| Shape | Round | Oval |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) | Dishwasher-safe (Hand wash recommended) |
| Made in USA or China | China | France |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
Final Verdict: Again, the Le Creuset has a higher maximum temperature, making it more versatile than the Viking Dutch oven.
If you need a more affordable option than Le Creuset, a bare cast iron Dutch oven would be a better alternative than the Viking Dutch oven.
Viking Cookware Review: Final Thoughts
After combing through Viking cookware reviews, I recommend the Viking Hard-Anodized Nonstick cookware set, the Viking Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 13-Piece cookware set, and the Viking Carbon Steel Frying Pan.
My top pick is the Hard-Anodized set. The reviews were very favorable, and the versatility and performance are unusually superior in a non-stick cookware set. If you want non-stick cookware, this is the best choice.
The 13-Piece Tri-Ply Stainless Steel cookware set has great reviews and should last a long time. Although the All-Clad set also has superb performance and reviews, you’ll get better value with the Viking Tri-Ply set. If you want stainless cookware, I’d go with this set.
The Carbon steel frying pan has great reviews and versatility. It’s also affordable, and even though you have to season it, it’s a pretty simple and painless process. If you want a PTFE-free non-stick type pan that can go in the oven, this is it.
Overall, while Viking is a luxury brand that produces high-quality cookware, you can find comparable alternatives for most options.
