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There is something so aesthetically pleasing about a glass cooktop’s sleek, clean look. Induction and standard electric glass cooktops give an instant facelift to any kitchen with their glass-ceramic finish. If you have a glass cooktop or are looking to update your current model, the cookware you pair with it is essential for a smooth operation—pun intended.
Since induction cooktops require magnetized cookware to operate, and because of the smooth glass or ceramic-coated surface of electric cooktops in general, you must be cautious of the type of cookware you use, for safety and efficacy reasons. To make your life easier, we’ve gathered up some crowd favorites for your consideration to ensure a pleasant experience every time you don your chef hat.
Here are five of the top cookware sets and pans for glass cooktops. We will follow up below with more details on why these pieces made the cut.
Overall Best: Anolon Nouvelle Stainless Steel Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 11 Piece
Best Budget for Induction: Cuisinart 12 Piece Cookware Set, MultiClad Pro Triple Ply, Silver, MCP-12N
Best Budget for Electric: Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware, 12 Piece
Best Stainless Steel: Tramontina Gourmet Prima Stainless Steel, Induction-Ready, Tri-Ply, 8 Piece
Best Nonstick Pans: All-Clad Essentials Nonstick Cookware Set, 10 Piece Set
Before diving into the benefits of the above models, we should cover a few basics about what to look out for when shopping for glass cooktop pans and cookware. These tips will help you make the most informed decision when browsing options if you veer from the list.
Quick note: Stainless steel, cast iron, copper, and aluminum cookware work well with electric cooktops. Induction cooktops require magnetic cookware such as iron, iron-based steel, stainless steel manufactured for induction, Tri-ply or clad, or carbon steel. It’s best to look for the three-loop Induction symbol when shopping for induction cookware.
DO look at the size. You will have the most efficient cooking experience when your pan or pot matches the burner. You want to get the dimensions as close as possible to cook your food evenly. If you use a pan that’s too small for the burner, you risk losing heat around the burner and you also risk getting burned. If you use a pan too large, the perimeter will not heat up evenly, and you must constantly shift the food around.
DON’T use stoneware or glass. Regardless of what the model may tout about their classy glass or stoneware cookware, using these materials on a smooth glass surface is never a wise idea. Unfortunately, they pose too high a risk of scratching your slick surface and will not cook your food as evenly as steel or traditional nonstick pans.
DO use flat bottoms. It’s always best to lean toward cookware with a flat bottom, preferably with a solid base that makes complete contact with your burner. Flipping your pan over and laying something absolutely flat on it is a good test. As long as all the edges touch the pan, it should check out. If there’s a slight wobble, it will not cook your food as efficiently, since you will have to expend more energy shifting your food around for even cooking.
DON’T go rustic with cast iron. Cast iron cookware should always be treated before use. Opting for an enameled cast iron may be a good move since it’s usually lighter and much smoother than regular cast iron, but it does cook slightly slower than standard cast iron. Make sure you only wash your cast iron with hot water and thoroughly dry it before storing it to avoid rust build-up, which could scratch your glass top. When using cast iron on an electric or induction cooktop, gently place it on the burner, and avoid sliding it around, to thwart scratches.
Now that you know some basics, it’s time to explore our top picks a little closer. Investing in a solid set of cookware is also an investment in your cooking, especially if you tend to spend a lot of time cooking. Your stovetop was also a heavy investment, so you want to be sure to select cookware that will complement your cooktop rather than damage it.
Cost: $259.99
You can truly savor the joy of gourmet cooking with the superior performance and style of this combination set that features copper, stainless steel, and hard anodized cookware. They feature a double full cap base with a copper core between layers of aluminum and stainless steel to deliver the ideal heat control. Due to their construction, these pieces are induction ready and can work on all glass surfaces, and gas cooktops, also. The fact that they are dishwasher-safe is a welcome bonus, and they are also oven safe. You can pop one into the oven at a max of 500 degrees F if needed, and the long handles and innovative flat-rivet tech help you manage your pans with ease. Just be sure to watch some videos or do some research on how to cook with stainless steel before breaking into your new set, as they definitely need to be cared for differently than their non-stick counterparts.
Cost: $220
This deluxe cookware set uses a unique Triple-ply construction that joins a pure aluminum core and a brushed stainless-steel exterior and interior for even heat distribution and optimal performance. They feature an updated handle design for a more distinguished look while also providing a comfortable grip. The interior stainless steel helps delicately simmer your sauces and is great for sauteing vegetables, browning meats, or boiling pasta for the whole family. One of the best features is their rims, which are tapered to offer drip-free pouring. The clear covers seal in nutrients and are dishwasher safe. Did we mention that they are also oven safe up to 500 degrees F? This set will stand the test of time, and the versatility of the pans will help you whip up everything from oatmeal and crepes to stews and burgers.
Cost: $170
This non-stick set is durable, fast to heat, and oven safe up to 400 degrees F. While dishwasher safe, the nonstick surface negates the need, as it’s easy to hand wash. You will find that hand washing most cookware will extend the life of your pots and pans, and the nonstick nature of this set makes the need for a dishwasher disappear. When it comes to handling and managing the set while cooking, dual-riveted handles and shatter-resistant glass lids help—we all experience accidents occasionally, so it’s nice to have a little security! The pop of color on the handles is a nice touch if you want to bring a little color into the kitchen and help you get a good grip on them. Just remember, these do not work on induction cooktops
Cost: $214
The classic stainless steel durability and quality shine through this eight-piece set. The pieces’ bases are made from three layers of 18/10 stainless steel, an aluminum core for even heat distribution, and magnetic stainless steel, which delivers heat evenly without hotspots and is compatible with induction cooktops. This collection also features a flared edge to help with pouring, and the pieces can be used on the cooktop and in the oven—even under a broiler! Pro tip: have some Bar Keepers Friend on hand to bring the shine back out after a few uses.
Cost: $399
This high-quality set uses PTFE nonstick for convenient, easy release of foods and is a breeze to clean. They are compatible with electric, gas, and ceramic cooktops and are oven safe up to 500 degrees F. Because of their aluminum construction, they are not compatible with induction cooktops. But for those with any other type of cooktop, this set is easy to store and clean, making your overall cooking experience easy! The pans feature a permanently secured comfort grip that is reinforced by the double-riveted stainless-steel handles and also has an easy size identification thanks to their capacity markings.
Selecting the right cookware for your glass cooktop is crucial for both performance and safety. When shopping for cookware, it’s essential to consider the material, size, and shape to ensure an efficient and pleasant cooking experience. You can enjoy cooking without the fear of damaging your appliance by choosing high-quality cookware designed for use on glass cooktops.
At Atherton Appliance & Kitchen, we offer a wide variety of cookware options that are perfect for use on glass cooktops. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the best cookware to fit your needs and preferences. We carry trusted brands known for their durability and performance, and our team can guide you through the selection process to ensure you make an informed decision.