Best non-stick cookware sets for healthy cooking

Blackmoor's Blue Pro 3-Piece Mixed Pan Set is a premium collection featuring a high-performance non-stick coating. The set includes a casserole pot, a frying pan and a saucepan designed to conduct heat more efficiently and retain it for longer periods. Each pan is crafted from forged aluminium with a 5-layer blue high-shine non-stick coating. They feature durable, riveted stainless steel handles and tempered glass lids that are oven-safe up to 220°C. These pans are compatible with electric, gas, solid hotplate and induction cooktops. This cookware is made from aluminium and has a stainless steel handle.

Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "I use these pans all the time and the blue metallic non-stick coating still looks as good as the day I got them. The pans heat up fast and can get extremely hot, so always have a cloth or mitt nearby. But the excellent heat conduction also means you can save energy and cook at lower temperatures. The tapered stainless steel handles stay relatively cool to the touch.

"I use the casserole pot to sear meat and sauté onions on the hob, then put it in the oven. The frying pan is large enough for a full English and the sauce pan is a handy every day pan for boiling rice or cooking vegetables.

"Note that the non-stick coating is not dishwasher safe, but the pans are an absolutely breeze to hand-wash and they come up like new.

"This is my top recommendation for a high quality, yet affordable pan set that's both attractive and versatile."

The Swan Retro Retro 5-Piece Pan Set comprises two frying pans and three saucepans. This set is stylish, with a ribbed body and a chrome handle. As well as looking good, the cookware is lightweight and conducts heat well for fast and even cooking. The ceramic non-stick interior is free from PFAO and PTFE. Just be aware that these pans cannot be used in an oven and are hand wash only.

Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "The attractive Swan Retro Pan Set makes batch-cooking pasta and potatoes for our weekday lunches much more aesthetically pleasing. The pans are available in a range of colours and there's also an extensive range of matching kitchenware.

"There is a solid plate in the base of each pan that is induction compatible. Having tested a lot of pots and pans, this set is lighter than others. So, it's a good choice if you are looking for cookware that's not too heavy. However, I don't feel it has the longevity of premium cookware. For example, I had to tighten the screws on the saucepan lid handles.

"It also doesn't have the versatility of being oven-proof or being dishwasher-compatible. High temperatures and dishwasher detergent are a no-no. Also, avoid using metal utensils.

"I always take care to gradually heat up pans on my induction hob because high temperatures can warp the base. I did wonder if the cream colour interior of the pans might discolour with frequent frying and boiling, but so far, they've washed up like new. I've been using this pan set for a couple of months, with frequent use. I've melted chocolate and made cheese sauces in the sauce pans and they still look pristine.

"These pans are not oil-free cookware. When frying eggs, I use a drop of oil rather than a spray, and the pan washes clean. The non-stick coating stays in good condition.

"With the right care, this pan set is a good mid-range option. But little details in the build quality should be noted, such as a tiny gap where the handle joins the pan that could potentially be a spot where dirt builds up. But that's a minor point given the lovely aesthetic these pans add to a kitchen. I've had pans that have chipped and flaked after minimal use, and happily, this set has stayed in good condition. Just be sure to be gentle when heating them up and hand-wash only."

The cleverly designed Tower Freedom 13 Piece Cookware Set stacks together so it takes up minimal space. Two detachable Bakelite handles clip onto any of the pans. The lightweight, pressed aluminium pan set is ideal for camping or for a student kitchen. The cookware is oven-safe, plus it comes with reusable silicone lids so you can keep leftovers covered. The pans have Cerastone non-stick, which claims to be five times more durable than other non-stick coatings.

Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "I like this space-saving pan set because it stacks neatly on a shelf above my countertop, and it's not so heavy that I worry the whole shelf is going to fall down! What's more, the set consists of a generous amount of cookware, including a large multi-pan, wok, two frying pans and two saucepans. I think it's a good choice for a family holiday home or shared student household.

"What discourages me from using these pans all the time is the detachable handle. I can foresee having to buy extra handles over time. While it does stay firmly attached to the pan, the lever mechanism might be a bit fiddly for individuals with arthritis or other mobility issues. Also, the sauce pan lids are flat with a thick rubber trim that attracts dust and gets marked. Fair enough, they are space-saving, but I think their overall longevity is limited.

"There are lots of plus points though. The pans are just 2.5mm thick and they conduct heat very well on an induction hob, so you don't need to cook on a high temperature. The non-stick coating is excellent, or should I say egg-cellent! I've been making omelettes for lunch and the frying pans barely need any oil. My partner and I use this pan set to cook large meals, because we love that the pans can go in the oven. If we have leftovers we can use the silicone covers and store them in the fridge. So, in terms of versatility, weight and size these pans are a great choice."

The Zyliss Ultimate Pro cookware range is promoted as Zyliss' 'best cookware yet'. It has a 10-year non-stick guarantee. The Swiss brand has produced a range of pans that have a hard anodised body made of recycled aluminium. Plus, it has a specially developed non-stick coating called Zeradur 5, which has been rigorously tested, which the results published by the ILAG Group.

Peruse Zyliss Ultimate Pro cookware on Amazon UK.

Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, says: "I tested the Zyliss 24cm Ultimate Pro frying pan, and on first impressions, the pan looks and feels like great quality. It has a thick conductive base and a riveted stainless steel handle that feels robust. It's a good weight, and the size means it's not too heavy. It's ideal for making an omelette for one or frying a couple of eggs. The stand-out feature I've rarely seen on cookware is the pouring lip. This is so handy for draining excess liquid from the pan. Also, Zyliss has developed a unique non-stick coating; to me, the coating looks particularly glossy. It claims to have outstanding resistance to scratches and abrasion, plus it's stain-resistant.

"A quick magnet test showed that the base of the frying pan would be compatible with an induction hob. I fried a piece of rump steak with some tomatoes and mushrooms. I used just a spritz of oil. My goodness, it did heat up fast and I didn't need to resort to a high temperature. The steak was cooked in less than five minutes. I drained off the excess cooking juices with ease. Even if you have weaker wrists, the size and weight of the frying pan is manageable. I let the ingredients keep warm in the residual heat, as the aluminium body held its temperature for a good few minutes while I prepped for veggies.

"To test the non-stick capabilities of the pan I dry-fried some garlic. Now, this is where I would say the pan does need a spritz of oil as the garlic was sticking. However, when it came to cleaning, it didn't even need washing up liquid to come up like new.

"In summary, yes, it's up there with some of the best pans I've tested. I find that it's become my go-to pan for everyday cooking, for example, I can quickly heat through some frozen veggies as a side dish and drain the excess water off – adding some colour to a meal in minutes. However, it remains to be seen how well the non-stick will last over time, as some customer reviews have alluded to it chipping after a couple of years of use. As always, if you care for your cookware by avoiding high temperatures and abrasives and I don't see why this non-stick can't live up to its 10-year guarantee."

This is a new product that Yours previewed at Lakeland's Christmas 2024 press show. We were impressed with the quality of this cookware. The folding handle is riveted to the pan, and it's made from heavy-gauge aluminium that's suitable for all hob types. In addition, the non-stick is a premium Sol-gel ceramic coating that ensures minimal oil is required and washing up is a breeze. Also, the saucepans are oven-safe up to 220°C.

Having tested many pots and pans, Natalie from Yours said, "You can feel the quality in this saucepan set, and the fact that the handles fold and they are stackable is a brilliant space-saving feature. They'll heat up fast, and you can use moderate temperatures to achieve perfectly cooked food because of their superior heat conduction. If you're looking for a space-saving pan set to invest in, this is a top option."

A matching Joseph Joseph Space 2 Piece Frying Pan Set with Folding Handles is also available from Lakeland.

This Presitge non-stick saucepan set claims to be 'the world’s friendliest plant-based, non-stick cookware'. The pans are made from recycled materials with a plant-friendly non-stick coating. The pans are oven-safe up to 150°C and can be cleaned in a dishwasher. The body of the pan is aluminium, which conducts heat fast and evenly, whilst keeping the pan lightweight. The pan base is stainless steel, which works on any hob, including induction.

Our tester said: "If you are one of those people who always get rice stuck to the bottom of the pan, you'll be delighted to hear that doesn't happen here. The non-stick coating ensures food cooks evenly with no stickiness, and your rice will be cooked to perfection."

Read our full review of the Prestige Eco 3 Piece Non-Stick Saucepan set.

Keep your cookware looking like new, with the Premiere stainless steel collection from GreenPan. Innovative and durable, with an advanced non-stick coating it’s ideal for intensive daily use. GreenPan's ultra-strong Thermolon Diamond ceramic non-stick coating is reinforced with diamond and is strong enough to withstand the use of metal utensils. Made from natural materials by GreenPan, the sand-based non-stick coating is 100% healthy and contains zero harmful chemicals.

Commercial Content Writer, Natalie Knowles, tested the GreenPan Barcelona Pro Frying Pan and said it was the best cookware for a healthy, non-stick coating. Read our article on the best pans for induction cooking to find out more.

This Circulon cookware set is made of hard anodised aluminium with a stainless steel base, which provides excellent heat conduction and uniform cooking. The premium non-stick coating on the pan interior and exterior makes cleaning quick and easy. Compatible with all stovetops, including glass and induction, they’re a brilliant investment for any chef, beginner or experienced.

Particular details make these Circulon pans stand out. The frying pan has grooves which heat up faster than a flat interior and require little to no oil for cooking. The handles are soft grip silicone, so they're comfortable and safe. Plus, the cookware has an extra strong non-stick coating free of harmful chemicals yet lasts 15 times longer than their closest competitor and has a lifetime guarantee.

Customers praise the quality of this pan set, and they work well with induction hobs. The only thing to note is that they're pretty heavy pots and pans, therefore may not be suitable for some.

It's worth noting that induction cooking works best when you gradually heat the pan. When a pan is high quality, like Circulon, it will conduct and retain heat, so you don't have to use as much power for cooking.

Ninja ZEROSTICK Premium 5-Piece Pan Set boasts a non-stick coating that's 20 times tougher than traditional non-stick. It cannot be scratched or chipped; therefore, it's fine to use metal utensils with these pans. In addition, they are oven-safe up to 260°C. Plus, the stainless steel handles are riveted onto the pan, so there's no fear of loose handles. If you register with Ninja there is a 10-year replacement guarantee.

Customers say the pans have a heavy base, which distributes heat well and is essential for an induction hob. For the most part, these are great-quality pans. However, a few reviews show that the non-stick coating has worn. Reviews comment that Ninja's customer service is excellent, and they honour the guarantee. One review says it may be the frequent use of dishwasher salt that caused damage to their pans. The key is to treat them well, as extreme heat or abrasives will affect the longevity of any cookware. A general observation is to take care when lifting the lid handle as this can get hot.

Swiss kitchenware brand Zyliss has produced a range of cookware with a rock-pearl non-stick coating. This high-quality three-layer coating consists of a primer, ceramic and sealing layer. It's PFOA-free, safe to use metal utensils – plus, long-lasting with a 10-year non-stick guarantee. The saucepans are compatible with all hob types and offer an even heat distribution.

Customers praise their Zyliss pans for being good quality, albeit a little heavy. These sturdy pans have comfortable, stay-cool handles, plus the non-stick coating makes them easy to clean. However, some reviews comment that the exterior paintwork easily chips.