The Best Cookware For Glass Top Stoves in 2021

By Forrest •  Updated: 05/16/21 •  28 min read

After doing hours of research comparing some of the top sets available, we recommend the Cuisinart MCP-12N Stainless Steel set for its performance on glass stovetops.

Today, families use glass top stoves now more than ever.

Glass top stoves are slowly replacing the traditional coil cookers, owing to their ability to fit in the modern kitchen.

They are not only easy to clean and sleek, but the surface is also flat. That said, you will need the best cookware for glass top stoves if you are going to keep yours in the best shape.

Their beauty notwithstanding, these stoves require more care than the traditional stove. The fact that the top is flat means that heat will only distribute to an equally flat surface.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the best cookware for glass top stoves, what qualities you need to lookout for when purchasing cookware for your glass top stove, and much more. Let’s get started!

Best Cookware for Glass Top Stoves – Quick Comparison

Top 12 Cookware for Glass Top Stoves 2021

1. Cuisinart MCP-12N Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

Cuisinart makes some of the most dependable cookware sets around, and their MCP-12N Stainless Steel set works wonders with a glass top stove.

The bottoms of the set are flat and well-balanced, making for even heat distribution and fewer hot spots than more rounded alternatives.

The set contains a mix of saucepans, saute pans, a stockpot and tight-fitting lids for everything.

On Amazon, the set receives a 5-star rating more than 70% of the time, making it one of the highest-rated glass top stove sets out there.

This set is especially popular with families who’re likely to put it to heavy use, as its backed by a lifetime guarantee against defects.

Most users claim that the best part of the Cuisinart set is even heat distribution, comfortable handles and a cooking consistency that makes it easy to predict what kind of times and temperatures you’ll need to work with.

Although it’s a stainless steel set, the inside of the pans contain an aluminum core that retains heat better than similarly priced sets, and the triple-layer construction means it’s built for a lifetime and beyond.

There’s no plastic or ceramic here that will melt over time, and the set is dishwasher safe, making it one of the best-performing and easiest-to-clean cookware sets for glass top stoves.

Cuisinart claims this set is for the “professional home chef,” and if its stellar reviews are any indication, the company is absolutely right.

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

The Cuisinart MCP-12N is a great set of pans for any glass top stove. It comes with 12 triple-ply stainless steel pieces perfect for any kitchen. It is manufactured by a reputable brand that has been around since the 1970s. These pans distribute heat evenly ensuring a proper cooking surface for any food. If you’re looking for a cookware set that features great quality at a reasonable price point – these are a superb option for you. 

What I Liked

  • Great quality triple-ply construction
  • Even heat distribution
  • Dishwasher safe 
  • Tight-fit lids
  • Good value
  • Cool-touch handles

What I Didn't Like

  • Cannot see through lids

My Overall Rating:

2. All-Clad Brushed D5 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set

If you’re looking for the highest-quality cookware set for your glass top stove, this is your best option. 

These top-of-the-line pots and pans and manufactured by All-Clad – the industry leader in quality cookware since 1971.

This set features 10 pieces (5 pans & 5 lids) including an 8 and 10 inch frying pan, 1.5 and 3 quart sauce pan, and a 5.5 quart dutch oven. 

These pans heat evenly and can be heated up to 600º F.

This set has over 650 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.8/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This All-Clad 10-Piece Cookware Set is a great option for anyone searching for the highest-quality cookware. While this set is the most expensive – is screams quality with a lifetime warranty and built in the United States. It features a 5-layer stainless steel and aluminum construction that can heat up to 600º F that is perfect for any glass top stove. 

What I Liked

  • Manufactured in US
  • Even heat distribution 
  • 5-layer stainless steel & aluminum construction 
  • Extremely high quality
  • Dishwasher safe 

What I Didn't Like

  • Expensive
  • Only 10 pieces

My Overall Rating:

3. Paula Deen Signature Nonstick 15-Piece Porcelain Cookware Set

This elegant set of cookware contains seven pots and pans and a set of measuring spoons. The set is porcelain, elegant t look at, and it does not cost an arm and a leg.

The interior of each of these pots and pans is non-stick, stain-resistant and easy to clean. They have ergonomic porcelain coated handles that do not heat up at the same pace as the pots and pans

Porcelain is balanced, and so the heftiness will not affect a glass top.

Heat conducts fast to enable even distribution and quick cooking of food. The base is flat and heavy to allow it to stay on the surface as you cook. You can pop it into the oven as long as the heat stays below 350 degrees F.

Easy To Clean

The surface is non-stick, and it retains this quality as long as you take good care of it. Naturally, you should use mild detergents and appropriately spoons to prevent scraping and ruining the non-stick property.

Reviewers have rated them well, saying that they perform well even when you use little or no oil. The only caution that has come with cleaning is that food collects on the handle rivets. It may be hard to remove when it sticks. This set is dishwasher safe, but we do not advocate for using this cleaning method.

Durability

Porcelain is known to last, and so this set will be around for a while. Your method of washing will determine whether the non-stick effect will last. There have been complaints about them warping, but it is expected of porcelain.

This set has over 4,000 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.7/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Paula Deen 15-Piece Cookware Set is the best cookware option for those looking for value. While it’s not the highest quality set – it’s extremely affordable the best best cookware set under $150. It features 15 pieces and is non stick for easy clean up. 

What I Liked

  • Colorful speckled porcelain exterior will enhance every kitchen from contemporary to traditional
  • It is easy to clean
  • Very affordable
  • It lasts as long as you take good care of the set
  • Heavy gauge construction heats up quickly and evenly

What I Didn't Like

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Porcelain is said to melt when subjected to very high temperatures

My Overall Rating:

4. Calphalon Classic Non-Stick Pots and Pans 10-Piece Cookware Set

This 10-piece cookware set from Calphalon features a solid construction with a premium non-stick surface. Calphalon is not new to the industry. They first introduced their non-stick coating over 50 years ago in 1968. It includes 2 BPA-free boil-over inserts to prevent spillage. 

These pots and pans are made of a medium gauge thickness to ensure proper performance and quality. They can be used on any cooking surface including glass top stoves. 

The tempered glass lids allow for easy visibility into your pans and the cool-touch handles make handling your pans pain free. 

This set has over 5,000 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.6/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Calphalon 10-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set is a solid option for those looking for a mix of features. The included boil-over inserts can certainly come in handy when cooking and the premium non-stick surface makes cleaning up simple. These pans heat evenly and the hard-anodized build speaks quality. I would highly recommend these pots and pans for any cook top.

What I Liked

  • Oven use for up to 450 degrees F
  • Tempered glass lids for increased visibility
  • Boil-over inserts are extremely handy
  • Non-stick surface makes cleaning easy

What I Didn't Like

  • More expensive than other options
  • Only contains 3 lids

My Overall Rating:

5. Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set

The Farberware Millennium Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a quality set of cookware perfect for any glass stove top. It features 10 pieces of non-stick stainless steel materials with a lifetime warranty. 

It includes 4 tight-fit glass lids to retain moisture and allow for easy visibility. 

It can be heated to 500º F and is oven safe. 

This set has over 1,500 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.5/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Farberware 10-Piece Cookware Set is a perfect option for those looking for a mix of features like a stainless steel construction with a non stick surface. This cookware set is usable on all stove tops including glass. Because of the non stick surface, it is easy to clean and a quality set of cookware. I also loved that it could be heated to 500º F. 

What I Liked

  • Good value for the price
  • Can be heated to 500º F
  • Quality stainless steel build
  • Non stick coating
  • Lifetime warranty

What I Didn't Like

  • Recommended hand wash
  • Only includes 4 lids

My Overall Rating:

6. Rachael Ray Hard Enamel Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set

This Rachael Ray set comes in different colors of varying prices. The 10-piece set is not only made of high-quality material, but it is also reasonably cheap.

The pots and pans are in different sizes, and they all have glass lids. The color, while bright and shiny, may come off over time but the non-stick property stays.

The set is made of enamel, which is a good conductor of heat. The handles are also ergonomic, and they have nooks for hanging should you need that.

They are also coated to prevent them from heating up and burning the hands. The inside of this set is non-stick, and it retains this quality depending on how you care for it.

These pans and pots are easy to clean, seeing as food will fall off them without nudging. They are dishwasher safe, but that may strip them of the non-stick property.

Hard enamel is not only heavy, but it is durable too. This set retains its flat shape even after several uses, and it does not scratch unless you use tough cleaning material and detergents.

They can handle the oven heat too, up to 350 degrees F. The glass lids fit perfectly.

This set has almost 3,000 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.6/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Rachael Ray 10-Piece Cookware Set is a good option for those searching for a non-stick cookware set at a moderate price. It also includes a lifetime warranty – which is rare for this price point. It is constructed out of aluminum and can heat to 350º F. 

What I Liked

  • High quality and yet cheap price
  • The non-stick property does not diminish
  • The pots and pans are of various shapes and sizes
  • Rubberized double-riveted, color coordinated handles are comfortable and oven safe to 350°F
  • Lifetime warranty

What I Didn't Like

  • Using a dishwasher ruins the interior
  • Doesn’t feel as durable as other options

My Overall Rating:

7. T-Fal C836SD Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper Bottom 13-Pieces Cookware Set

The T-Fal C836SD stainless steel set is shiny with flat bottoms that are ideal for glass top stoves.

This polished element does not go away over time, but it stays for as long as you have the set. After all, it is stainless steel. You will be impressed with the price, seeing as this set is a 13-piece.

The body of each piece is made of stainless steel, while the bottom is fortified with a copper base. While stainless steel is a good conductor of heat, copper is even better, and it helps the pot heat up faster and retains the momentum as long as the food is in the pot. It loses heat relatively quickly when compared to other materials, which prevents the food from overcooking.

The bottom of each pot has a magnetic field, which helps the pot to remain steadily on the stove. Stainless steel is quite light and therefore ideal for this delicate glass top.

The bottom part is made to stay scratch free as long as you take good care of it. The lids have vents which let out air to prevent the food from boiling over.

This set is oven safe for up to 500 degrees F, and it is dishwasher safe. The manufacturers claim that the thermal spot in the middle indicates when the pot is at its optimal heat, but this only happens when you use the highest heat setting.

The interior part of this set is non-stick, and it remains so as long as you take good care of it.

This set has over 18,500 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.7/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This T-Fal 13-Piece Cookware Set is a great option for anyone searching for a good mix of quality and affordability. It features a construction of copper, stainless steel, and aluminum for superior heat distribution – perfect for any foods. It is also reasonably priced under $250. 

What I Liked

  • Stainless steel, copper, and aluminum are excellent heat conductors
  • Even heat distribution 
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Reasonably priced 
  • 13-pieces

What I Didn't Like

  • Large pan does not include lid
  • Bottom discolors easily with higher temps

My Overall Rating:

8. GreenPan CW000545-004 Lima Ceramic 12-Piece Cookware Set

This GreenPan Ceramic Cookware Set is an affordable option that is suitable for all stove tops other than induction heat. 

These pans are different than many others on this list in that they are constructed of hard anodized bodies with a ceramic non stick coating. This coating is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium making it safe for humans.

If durability is a concern – this cookware set features a hard anodized aluminum build that is scratch and corrosion resistant. 

These pans can be heated to 600º F – one of the highest temperatures on this list of the best cookware sets for glass top stoves. 

This set has over 1,000 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.5/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This GreenPan Non Stick Cookware Set is a good option for those looking for versatility. It features a non-stick surface which makes cleaning a breeze. It also is oven safe up to 400º F and features a hard anodized construction that is said to be 2 times as hard as stainless steel. If you’re looking for a mid-tier cookware set – this one is certainly worth considering.  

What I Liked

  • Heat up to 600º F
  • Safe ceramic non stick coating
  • Glass lids for easy visibility
  • Reasonably priced

What I Didn't Like

  • Not suitable for induction heat stoves
  • Only 8 real pieces 

My Overall Rating:

9. Circulon Symmetry Chocolate Hard Anodized Nonstick 11-Piece Cookware Set

This chocolate set from Circulon is a delight to look at, and the colors remain intact even after several washes.

The set comprises of various deep pots, sauté pans, and skillets for all the cooking a family will need.

Each of them has a vented heavy-duty stainless steel lid that fits perfectly.

While the body is hard anodized enamel, the base is made of stainless steel for better conductivity of heat and stability.

It is impact bonded to ensure that it stays on the stove all the while.

This base is ideal for any stove top.

The inside of this set is non-stick, and so you will use less time to cook and even less oil. Seeing as the heavy stainless-steel ply will not come off anytime, you can expect excellent heat conduction as well as longevity for the entire set.

It cleans easily with only a soft cloth and mild detergent.  The handles are stainless steel made, but they are coated with silicon to prevent heating up.

This set has over 350 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.6/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Circulon Symmetry Cookware Set is a good option for those looking for versatility. It features a non-stick surface which makes cleaning a breeze. It also is oven safe up to 400º F and features a hard anodized construction that is said to be 2 times as hard as stainless steel. If you’re looking for a mid-tier cookware set – this one is certainly worth considering.  

What I Liked

  • Oven use for up to 400 degrees F
  • Non-stick property does not diminish over time
  • The material is a high conductor of heat
  • Limited life guarantee
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Compatible with all types of stove tops

What I Didn't Like

  • Doesn’t feel as durable

My Overall Rating:

10. Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper 18/10 Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set

This Lagostina Martellata Copper Cookware Set is all about quality. The triple-ply hammered copper build screams quality with a unique appearance. This set contains 10 pieces – 6 pots and pans with 4 lids. 

The stainless steel lids add a touch of luxury to this cookware set for glass top stoves. 

This cookware set is more expensive compared to other options on this list – but for good reason. It is built with the highest quality stainless steel, copper, and aluminum for superior heat distribution. 

This set has over 650 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.5/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Lagostina Martellata Copper Cookware Set is a great option for those looking for All-Clad quality that is slightly less expensive. When compared to other models – this cookware set features a triple-ply construction with a luxurious hammered copper finish.  If you’re looking for quality at a lower price point – this is for you!

What I Liked

  • Quality build
  • Great looks and design
  • Superb heat distribution
  • Tight-fit stainless steel lids 

What I Didn't Like

  • Expensive
  • More difficult to clean

My Overall Rating:

11. Amazon Basics 15-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set

This Amazon Basics Non Stick Cookware Set is the lowest priced set on this list. It contains 15 pieces with 6 pots and pans with 4 lids. It also comes with a utensil set. 

This cookware set is built with an aluminum body with a non stick surface for easy cleaning. 

This set has over 28,000 Amazon reviews with an average rating of 4.6/5 stars. 

Key Features:

My Thoughts:

This Amazon Basics Cookware Set is all about affordability. If you’re looking for a cheaper option that might last a few years – this set is for you. It’s less than $100 making it a great gift. It is non stick but not safe for dishwashers – something you’ll want to consider.  

What I Liked

  • Extremely affordable 
  • Non stick for easy cleaning

What I Didn't Like

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Feel very cheap
  • Doesn’t transfer heat well

My Overall Rating:

12. Circulon Infinite Hard Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set

This 10-piece set from Circulon is not cheap, but then its quality places it on the pedestal.

It is made by Meyer, a company credited with some of the best cooking sets on the market.

This model is a deep charcoal gray and shiny, and it retains this color and shine all through its useful life.

It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

The set contains three saucepans of varying size, two skillets, and a stockpot.

They all have perfectly heavy-duty lids made of stainless steel.

This set gets its name from the circles inside each pot or pan that let you know how hot it is as well as protecting the nonstick property.

The pots are made of hard-anodized aluminum with stainless steel in the base.

The inside of these pots is non-stick, a quality that stays as long as the pots last.

Why add a stainless steel base? Mostly to enable more heat conductivity, and to keep the base heavy and flat.

This base is ideal for several types of stoves, including induction.

More On The Non-Stick Coat

The pots have a three-layer coat that prevents them from scratching and losing the property, even after several sessions of cleaning.

As much as they are dishwasher safe, you risk interfering with the non-stick property. They are easy to clean with a piece of cloth and mild detergent.

What I Liked

  • They have a three-layer non-stick coat
  • You can use these in the oven (up to 500 degrees F)
  • Hard-anodized aluminum and stainless steel are good conductors of heat
  • They are ideal for several stoves

What I Didn't Like

  • The handles get heated up
  • To appear “heavy duty” the bottoms are super thick

My Overall Rating:

Why You Need Specialized Cookware For Glass Stoves

Because it is Delicate

Seeing as the surface is made is glass, it scratches and breaks easily if you do not give it the attention it deserves. Your cookware needs to be specifically designed for this top so that you don’t end up ruining it and spending money on repairs.

Base for Stability

Most cookware designed for this type of stove has a broad and heavy base to keep the pot on the stove. As you will note, glass top stoves need to be in contact with the cookware so that heat is distributed. Any surface that is not heavy enough will not keep the cookware where it needs to be.

How To Tell High-Quality Cookware For Glass Top Stove

Material

One of the more popular materials for glass tops is aluminum, partly because of its fair price and also because it is a good conductor of heat.

Anodized aluminum is even better because it is safe for all foods, whether alkaline or acidic.

Lined copper is also an excellent conductor of heat. It heats up fast and loses the heat even more quickly, meaning that your food will not overcook.

The only downside to it is the warping that happens over time and with frequent use of heat.

As much as the bending will not affect its ability to conduct heat, it prevents it from being as effective seeing as it cannot sit properly on the flat surface.

Titanium is yet another quality material. It is non-reactive, conducts heat well, will not warp no matter how long you use it, and you can use it in the oven.

The only downside to this wonderful material is its price tag. A set could cost more than your stove.

Finally, stainless steel and carbon steel pots and pans also work well with glass tops. 

Materials to Avoid 

On the flip side, you’ll want to avoid rough materials like cast iron or stoneware – both these can easily scratch glass top stoves and leave marks that are difficult to remove. 

These also aren’t as effective on the flat top because the materials aren’t as flat and smooth, so going with something like stainless steel or anodized aluminum is a more effective way to go.

Proper Contact

Your cookware should be within the allowed sizes so that the edge of the stove can be in contact with it. The rule of thumb here is to stay within one inch of the stove’s diameter.

It can be larger or smaller, but not beyond one inch of the burner.

Why is this? You see, the flat surface of the burner means that it will only distribute heat to the surfaces it meets.

If it is too small or too large, then heat is not efficiently distributed.

Heavy-Handedness

Iron cast is great material for cookware, but it may not be the best for this kind of stove. The primary downside is in its weight.

On its own, it is quite heavy. Now add food to it, and it becomes even heavier. One wrong move in handling it with all its weight cold dent your glass stove.

Typically, we see glass top stoves have a weight limit of 50 pounds, so in general you won’t reach this range, but it’s better to stay on the lighter (and safer) side.

How to Care for Your Glass Top Stove

Cleaning and caring for a glass top stove is different than other types of stoves. If you want your stove to last longer, utilize these tips to keep your surface clean!

Clean When Cold

When cleaning your glass top surface, never clean it when it is hot. This can cause cracks in the surface that will require you to replace the stove top. Instead, wait until the surface is cool before cleaning. 

Use the Right Cleaner

To clean the surface, I recommend purchasing this Pink Stuff cleaning paste. It is completely safe for your glass surface and it contains a light abrasive to get all of the dirt off.

Clean Often

While I struggle to maintain this tip – it will help to keep your glass stove top clean. By cleaning it more often you will reduce the chance that foods stick to the surface and become difficult to remove. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Cookware for Glass Top Stoves

Glass top stoves are expensive and elegant, and only the best cookware will do. We chose five of the best to give you a wide selection regarding prices and material.

Even though all these sets are excellent, we think that the Cuisinart MCP-12N Stainless Steel set leads the pack. The flat base is a good heat conductor while the internal part of each pot and pan is non-stick.

We notice that the exterior does not shed color over time. This set handles itself well in an oven too, making it multi-purpose. The reasonable price convinces us that it is the best choice.

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