Best Copper Cookware in 2023

Do you feel that all the information about copper pots is overwhelming or confusing? Buying copper cookware may seem a little daunting at first, but with a bit of insight, you will be ready to make your kitchen look shiny with your new pots and pans. Copper is an excellent medium for cooking because the material heats quickly and evenly. Not all copper cookware is the same, so it is a good idea to do your due diligence before shelling out big bucks for a high-end set. In this review, we will go over 20 of the Best Copper Cookware items and give you the information that may help you choose the best product for your kitchen.

Why Copper Such a Good Material for Cooking

Copper is a highly conductive material. The use of copper pots lets you adjust the heat and get an immediate response. When you are making a dish that cooks in minutes, like shrimp or fish, then you need a pan that will heat all of the pot at the same time, and then cool off fast when you take it off from the stove.

Best Copper Cookware Comparison Table

Best Copper Cookware Set Reviews

Matfer Bourgeat – Top Pick

The fact that you are looking for the best copper cookware set means that you are aware of the prices in the market. You can start off by buying piece by piece or fully indulge yourself in a set like this from Matfer Bourgeat. The cost of copper cookware, in general, might deter some people, but these visually appealing pieces are worth the investment, especially in the long run.

Let us talk first about the cookware’s anatomy. By looking at our comparison table, some brands, including Matfer Bourgeat, use copper that is 2.5 mm thick. This size is the best copper thickness for cookware because it gives you the full benefits of using copper; we will talk about these benefits as we go.

Why Choose Sets Combined with Stainless Steel?

In this set, the copper is in between 0.1 mm of 18/10 polished stainless steel. Most of the units in this review use stainless steel, but what makes it so popular for copper cookware? 18/10 stands for the percentage of chromium and nickel alloy added to the stainless steel. Chromium protects the stainless steel surface from potential rusting due to acidic food, while nickel, on the other hand, adds luster to prevent the surface from corroding.

Therefore, stainless steel and copper work best together to elongate the lifespan, and effectiveness of the cookware. Why is this information relevant? Later on, you will see that acidic foods can become problematic for copper cookware.

Gapless and Secured Lids and Drip-Proof Rims

Some other details worth noting in this set are its lids and rims. You will get a copper lid each for the casserole, saucepan, saute pan, and brazier. We like how durable their handles feel and how seamless they fit onto their pans. And because they are also copper, clean-up is a breeze.

Now for the rims, how many times have you dreaded spills during pouring? Don’t stress because each piece of Matfer Bourgeat have overturned edges to keep you spill and drip-proof even if you’re making a large batch of dishes.

Counterbalanced Cast Iron Handles

Another factor that affects your overall cooking experience is how you can maneuver your pans and pots, and if they can remain stable, especially in a busy kitchen. The handles of this set along with their heavy rivets speak premium built. Their weight helps in balance and providing a more steady grip during use. Personally, one of our biggest pet peeves is when pans tip over, that is why these handles are a great plus.

But how does Marfer Bourgeat clean? Like most copper cookware, this set is not dishwasher-safe. However, the combination of stainless steel, copper, and cast iron makes this set easy to maintain. You can simply handwash the piece that you’ve used in warm, soapy water then wipe it dry inside out with a soft cloth to keep it shiny. And if you’re worried about tarnishing, we recommend polishing your cookware once a month with an approved copper polish.

Mauviel M’heritage – Can’t Go Wrong With a Classic

If you ask someone, “what’s the best copper cookware brand?” They will probably answer Mauviel. After all, the brand has been manufacturing copper cookware way back since 1830. The set that we have here is as luxurious as our first unit with the exception that Mauviel has included a skillet. You will also get their Copperbrill cleaner for maintaining your cookware’s shine.

Like our previous set, the M’heritage is also lined with stainless steel, and as you have read, this material makes a great partner for copper. Copper itself is an excellent conductor already, so you will visibly notice how easy and fast it is to get an evenly distributed heat. But the combination of copper and stainless steel is not only advantageous while cooking, the stainless steel lining also adds to the cookware’s durability and lower maintenance.

Should You Choose a Traditional Tin-Lined Set?

If you prefer a more traditional built, Mauviel also offers tin-lined copper cookware sets. However, they will be harder to maintain. Tin-lined copper cookware is also more delicate compared to sets with stainless-steel lining, and you can only use wooden or silicone utensils if you don’t want to damage them.

Overall, you can’t go wrong with a classic like Mauviel. However, some of the advantageous features we found in Matfer Bourgeat are lacking in this set. First, are the rims of the pieces. They aren’t designed for a spill-proof pouring, so you have to be extra careful to avoid spills and messes. And second, although the lids fit well with the pots and pans, they somewhat feel lightweight for a premium range.

Counterbalanced Handles But…

What about the handles? The handles of this set are made of bronze and tipping over is something you shouldn’t worry about. The thick bronze handles keep the pieces balanced, but the wideness can be awkward for some users. The bronze built also affects the handles in a way that you have to be extra cautious since they get hot quickly.

Clean-up is the same with other bronze cookware sets. Washing in warm soapy water and drying by hand will do the trick. To prevent discoloration, we recommend routine polishing once a month.

Lastly, the M’heritage set is not for use in the dishwasher nor with an induction oven. Nonetheless, these are not significant drawbacks since these issues are common with copper cookware sets.

Mauviel M150S – A 10-Piece Set Compatible for Different Cooktops (Even Electric!)

The M’heritage M250B isn’t the only set we reviewed from Mauviel. What we have here is the M150S set that comes with 2 frying pans instead of just one skillet like its pricier sibling. The pieces are compatible with various cooktops ranging from halogen, gas, and even electric.

However, even if the set performs well in heat conductivity, their copper exterior only measures 1.5 mm thick. Although we can’t say that this should be a big factor to consider since some users will argue that the thickness has no negative effect during usage.

Like the copperware sets that we reviewed earlier, the M150S also has a stainless steel lining. We will not rediscuss the advantage of this material to avoid redundancy in this review, but regardless, stainless steel helps both in durability and effectiveness of the cookware.

The handles of this set differ from its previous sibling from Mauviel because they do not get hot as quickly. This comment can be a significant factor to choose this set over the M’heritage because not only you will get a 10-piece cookware, but also because the M150S doesn’t have the former’s drawback.

Lagostina Martellata – Copper Cookware Set for Those Who are Starting Out

Another 10-piece copper cookware set is the Martellata from Lagostina. The pieces are copper clads like our earlier sets, meaning they have a tri-ply construction. If you want to know more about the different types of copper cookware, you can jump to our buyer’s guide for a quick scan.

Each piece of this set is made of stainless steel with copper cladding. They all have a thick aluminum core, and the hammered copper exterior gives the pots and pans a shiny finish. The combination of these materials does not only affects the aesthetics of the set, but they also improve their effectiveness in heat conduction.

And because this set costs less than an all-clad copper cookware set, we think that this beauty is perfect for someone who’s trying out copper cookware for the first time.

Stainless Steel Lids and Handles

The lids and the handles of the pieces are also made of stainless steel. We like the secure fit of the lids onto the pots and pans, while the riveted cast stainless steel handles give the pieces stability when empty.

Flared Rims

Martellata has flared rims similar to the overturned edges of Matfer Bourgeat. You can pour your food efficiently without the annoying drips and spills.

Like other copper cookware, you can’t expect that you can use these pieces in induction cooking. You can opt for the stainless steel-only version from Lagostina if this factor is a must for you. However, you can use the pieces in the oven or broiler for up to 500 degrees. Electric ranges, on the other hand, can give you less efficiency in heat distribution.

Cuisinart HCTP-8W – 8-Piece Set for Those Wanting to Add Copper in Their Kitchen

Cookware equipment that is made out of hammered copper is not only gorgeous to look at. It is also ideal for thoroughly cooking meats such as chicken breasts; nobody wants to serve Salmonella!

Like the Lagostina Martellata, the HCTP-8W from Cuisinart is tri-ply stainless cookware with a copper exterior. Besides the interior, the lids and the handles are also made of stainless steel. We have no issue with the lids because they feel sturdy enough to resist any bending or damages. The handles are nicely contoured for gripping as well although we are still yet to find a set where the handles get hot slowly.

You can choose from a 7, 8, or 11-piece set from Cuisinart, but for us, this hammered 8-piece copper set is too stunning to pass. All the pans have a lid except for the 2 skillets in this set, and if you want a steamer, you can opt for the 11-piece set. Of course, these pieces are not compatible with induction cooking although you can use them in the oven or broiler at 500 degrees.

Overall, if you’re someone who is aware of the advantages of copper cookware but is still not sure of getting a set, you can start out with this line from Cuisinart. And best of all, they offer a lifetime warranty.

Calphalon T10 – Burn-Free Handling

We are halfway in our review, and what we have here is a 10-piece set from Calphalon. It has the familiar features from the previous sets being oven and broiler-friendly (at 450 degrees) and stainless steel lids that fit snugly on their pots and pans.

Calphalon used aluminum core with stainless steel in the interior and copper on the exterior in these pieces. As you would expect with copper cookware, the heat is equally distributed across the pan and even ingredients straight from the freezer defrost quickly. You should note that with pieces like these that are highly conductive, you should keep your heat well-regulated between low and medium to avoid burning your ingredients.

Stay-Cool Handles

However, what separates the Calphalon T10 to our previous sets is its patented stay-cool handles. These metal handles are double-riveted, so stability is not questionable but at the same time, are lightweight enough that you can easily grab it and transfer as you cook in the kitchen.

And speaking of transferring, the rims of the pieces are even flared so you can pour your contents neatly and efficiently. However, the rims and the covers sometimes create a vacuum that can make it difficult to open the set.

Cuisinart 10pc – 10-Piece Copper Cookware Set Without Breaking the Bank

If a 10-piece set is more appealing for you, you can check out this copper cookware from Cuisinart. If you put this set side by side with the HCTP-8W from the same manufacturer, there aren’t really any significant difference except the latter has a hammered finish.

You will get the same stainless steel-clad tri-ply built to give you equal heat distribution and scratch-free interior. Like the previous set we reviewed from Cuisinart, you can use the pieces in the oven at 500 degrees.

The pans and pots have stainless steel covers and riveted stainless steel handles. The cover handles are almost identical with the previous Cuisinart set we reviewed. However, we like the grip of the HCTP-8W body handles better.

There is nothing significantly bad or good with the covers and the handles, although a lot of users seem to prefer the handles of this set as it conducts heat slower. For us, the handles of both sets look like Cuisinart built them from the same material, so we still can’t generalize that the handles of this cookware set are going to get hot slower than the HCTP-8W pieces.

T-Fal – Best Copper Bottom Cookware

Copper clads are not the only copper cookware that you can invest in. You can also consider copper bottom cookware sets. Because of the copper disk at the bottom of the pan, you can expect an improved heat distribution. This type of copper cookware is also your best solution if you want the benefits of copper for cooking but is limited due to having an induction stove. Yes, you can use these pieces for induction cooking!

Six Layers for Excellent Heat Conductivity and Durability

Our favorite copper bottom cookware is from T-fal. As you can see at the bottom, the copper disk is at the center with multiple rays stretching outward. The pieces have a total of 6 layers made out of stainless steel, aluminum, and copper repeatedly. The aluminum and copper affect the heat distribution of the pans, while the 18/10 stainless steel keeps the surfaces durable.

Nonetheless, oxidation will still depend on the food that you are cooking. And speaking of discoloration, just because you only have copper at the bottom of the pan doesn’t mean that they are not prone to discolor. Note that you should care for their copper parts as you would with copper-clad cookware.

What features should you expect? The inside of the pots and pans have measuring marks which we think are nice bonus features. You can also expect the riveted stainless steel handles commonly seen throughout this review. However, they do get hot fast.

Visible Cooking Without Boiling Over

The lids have a hole for ventilation to prevent scary boil-overs, and because they are made of tempered glass, you can even see your food as well. We like this feature since visibility is important for certain dishes so that you can make sure that you aren’t overcooking your ingredients.

Other than being see-through, the lids also have loop handles. What are these handles for? The loop handles are useful for trapping heat inside the pans and pots and, at the same time, keep your dishes from drying out.

Overall, this set from T-Fal is a great copper bottom cookware. Just be aware that the stickers they come with are quite tricky to remove. We found that some vinegar and baking soda can help in removing the leftover adhesive after you peeled off the stickers.

Gotham Steel – Best Non-Stick Copper Cookware

Since we have reviewed the best copper bottom set, it is only fitting that we introduced you to our favorite non-stick copper cookware. The pieces from this set are made of aluminum with a titanium-ceramic copper coating. The combination of these materials results in an even heat distribution (as you would expect) with the addition of being scratch-proof and non-stick.

Non-stick cookware is very useful in a vast array of recipes. They can also make your dish healthier because you will not be needing to add oil or butter. Do note that not every ingredient will slide right off the pan, but we found that a simple nudging with the spatula will smoothly glide your ingredient across.

The handles of the pan are riveted, and we like how there is ample space to where you’d be gripping to avoid accidental burns. But just like with our previous cookware, the handles can get hot easily.

No More Stacking

On a brighter note, the handles also have a hole for hanging the pieces. This way, you can keep your set neatly without the need to stack them and damage your non-stick surface. You can also notice that large pans have a helper handle across the “main handle.” These handles keep your cookware balanced when you cook large portions of meals.

The lids are rimmed with stainless steel and are mainly made out of tempered glass. Similar to our previous set, this allows you to take a peek into your food as you cook. The space on the lid and handle are also wide, so you don’t have to worry about burns when removing the lid.

So far, we like the overall “physique” of the pieces; however, the pans themselves are quite lightweight. Note that you have to be careful when frying or boiling as they have a tendency to move, especially on a flat glass surface. A feature that we like though is that the large pots have a spout so you can pour your contents easily even in a smaller container.

For clean-up, you can put your cookware in the dishwasher if you need to save time. However, if you chose to hand-wash your pieces, be careful with their exterior because they are prone to scratching and chipping.

Epicurious – Non-Stick Copper Cookware Without Breaking the Bank

Another non-stick copper set that we have in this review comes from Epicurious. This is an 11-piece set that is also made out of aluminum, stainless steel, and copper like our previous unit. And because the bottom of the pans are made of impact-bonded stainless steel, you can safely assume that you can use them on an induction stove.

The interior of the pieces use triple-layer of non-stick coating, but because they are also made of aluminum, you can safely use metal utensils without the fear of getting them scratched. The exterior of pots and pans, on the other hand, has a copper finish that adds in the set’s overall aesthetic.

Silicone-Covered Dual-Riveted Handles

Each piece has a dual-riveted handle that is covered in silicone to protect you from the heat. The silicones are fantastic addition considering that hot handles are the common problem throughout this review. What about the lids? Like our previous sets, you can see your food as you cook because Epicurious made them with tempered glass. And for added grip and snug fit, they have stainless steel rims as well.

Sexy with a Purpose

Looking at the pots, you can see that they almost have a curve in their body. What is the significance of this detail? According to Epicurious, this shape helps in maintaining heat and moisture circulation inside the pots.

Our only comment for this set is the exterior of the pieces seem to be more problematic than the non-stick surface. Over time, the paint starts to chip, which is a common occurrence with coated cookware.

CONCORD – Best Ceramic-Coated Copper Cookware

Other than copper clads, copper bottoms, and copper core cookware, there is also a type of copper cookware that is infused with ceramic. An excellent example is the product that we have here; the ceramic-coated copper cookware set from Concord. For its price range, we think that this set is fantastic for starters that want copper cookware but doesn’t want the limitation in induction cooking.

The body of each piece is mainly cast aluminum that is coated with a mixture of ceramic and copper. The aluminum is for regulating the heat throughout the pan since each piece only has a thin exterior layer of copper. And because the pots and pans have a thicker ceramic layer compared to the copper component, you can’t expect the same benefits that you’ll get in a copper-clad cookware. For us, the copper coating is primarily for the aesthetic only. Nonetheless, the performance in cooking of this set is in line with other stainless steel cookware.

The ceramic interior of the set is responsible for its non-stick properties. This also makes clean-up easier. However, because the surface is not stainless steel, you have to be extra careful because the pieces are more prone to chipping and cracking. On the bright side, the ceramic interior is more durable to Teflon in the expense of Teflon being more effective when it comes to non-stick properties.

CONCORD made the handles of their pots and pans from stainless steel, but unlike our previous set from Epicurious, there are no heat protection. The lids are also see-through, and the rims are designed for cleaner pouring.

As you can expect, this set is dishwasher-safe. However, you still have to maintain the copper exterior by polishing them to keep their shine. And because they tend to scratch easily, we would rather hand-wash the pieces instead of putting them in the dishwasher. Still, the dishwasher-safe option is nice to have.

Gibson Cuisine – Best Affordable Ceramic Cookware

You don’t have to sell your kid’s college fund to get an equally gorgeous copper cookware set. You can start with the Gibson Cuisine which includes a nylon turner and a nylon spoon to cook scratch-free.

Whitford Sol-Gel Coating

What’s unique with these pots and pans is the combination of aluminum for heat distribution and their ceramic sol-gel non-stick coating from Whitford. This coating is infused with titanium, and the overall result are durable, and beautifully glossy pieces.

Like our last sets, the covers of the pots and pans are made of ventilated tempered for releasing steam and added visibility. The handles are equally gorgeous with their copper-accented ends. They are made of bakelite, and each has a hole so you can keep the set stack-free. However, some users have reported that their handles broke off after some time.

You can use these pans on almost every type of stove ranging from electric, gas, halogen, and even induction. This feature is perhaps the biggest advantage of copper-coated cookware over copper-clad cookware. But because of their copper coating, these pieces are prone to scratches, so you have to be extra careful in washing and maintaining them.

Best Single Products

Mauviel M’Heritage Copper 3.6-Quart Saucepan

Do you own a copper frying pan and need a larger pot for soups and sauces? Do you like to cook chili or beef stew? Mauviel is a timeless classic when it comes to copper cookware. This saucepan may be a great way to begin your luxury collection of copper cookware.

We recommend keeping a good copper cleaner around when you buy this copper sauce pot to keep the lustrous exterior nice and shiny. Your saucepan may last you a lifetime with regular cleaning. You will get the natural element of copper in your diet as you use this dish to help boost your energy levels.

Mauviel M’Heritage Copper 4.8-Inch Round Pan

Do you like cookware that you can take from the oven and put right on the table? This copper pan is made of durable copper that retains an antimicrobial surface. The thick material is sturdy and may last long enough to pass down to your children.

You may find that this pan is easy to use because it is the lightest Mauviel product. With four-inch sides, you can easily create a family-size portion of Fettuccine Alfredo with this dish.

Mauviel 3.7-Quart Copper Sugar Sauce Pan

Is candy making a regular event in your home? Do you find that you spill hot liquids easily when you are transferring them from your cooking vessel to the candy mold? This Mauviel saucepan has an easy pour spout that may make your cooking time much more fun.

When you need even cooking to make sure that your treats turn out right with no burnt edges, then you may love this saucepan.

Mauviel M’Passion 11-Quart Copper Jam Pan

Do you love the taste of homemade goodies like preserves and jellies? This 11-quart pan is large enough to hold a double batch of jam without fear of it slopping out. The high sides of the pot might make it easier to boil down your sauce and keep you from getting burnt with the hot liquid.

You may want to keep a set of pot holders or a towel close when you use this pan because the handles will become hot.

We recommend hand washing this item to keep the pan from discoloring or getting any damage.

Copper Chef Round 10-Inch Skillet with Glass Lid

Do you brown your meat before putting it in the oven to roast? Is an omelet a regular part of your breakfast menu? We think that frying and sauteing may become a little bit easier with this copper skillet.

When you cook foods on the stove for long periods, you may find that this frying pan holds up to the use.

With great care and polishing, your Copper Chef skillet will last through many cooking cycles.

Best Copper Cookware Buyer’s Guide

Differences between each cookware type

Copper Clad

In these pans, several layers of material make up the pot. The copper makes up the outside of a metal sandwich where another material like stainless steel is on the inside of the pan. In this design, the copper extends across the bottom and up the sides of the pan. You may recognize these pans with the name “tri-ply” or triple layer construction.

Copper Ceramic Pots

These pots often use ceramic on the outside of the pan with a thin layer of copper in the middle. Some fuse copper and ceramic together in a chemical process to create a lasting surface. You may have a pot like this in your camping gear. Enamel is a durable surface that protects the copper.

Copper Bottom Pans

This style of pan has a copper disk on the bottom of the pan that helps distribute the heat more evenly when cooking. It may have several layers making it a five or seven layer pan. These pans are popular for induction stove use.

Copper Core Cookware

Five or seven layers of material are typical for this style of copper cookware. These pans have a copper disk that forms the center of the pan with two layers of another material on the outside of the copper. These pans often use a layer at the bottom of the pan, but not the sides. Many individuals buy these pans to use on induction stoves.

What to look for when buying the best copper cookware

• Thickness – ideally the best pots are at least one millimeter thick
• Edges – the edge should never have a roll
• Hammer or smooth – this option is mainly preference
• Lining – tin, stainless steel, or bare copper

Characteristics of Each Lining

Copper With No Lining

Bare copper is an excellent source of nutrients in a healthy diet. Cooking with bare pans allows the food to absorb some of the minerals. Copper pans with no lining give you the chance to get rid of the cream of tartar when you are making meringues. The metal in the pot creates a chemical reaction that lets you get stiffer peaks on your egg whites and the process goes much faster than with a glass bowl or plastic mixing dish.

Tin Lining

Although copper is a better conductor of heat, tin does not do a bad job either. A huge benefit of this material is that it is extremely smooth meaning that it is a non-stick surface. Acidic foods will not tarnish the inside of your tin lining because the metal does not change with pH levels. With this lining, you do not have to season your pans like you might with a cast iron material.

Tin will not create a layer of water between your food and the pan like Teflon coating does, so you can get a nice sear on your New York Strip or T-bone steak. Tin does rust and darken with high-heat and age. The lining will wear out eventually, so a new application may be necessary after fifteen to thirty years. Tin can also scratch.

Copper Pans With a Stainless Steel Interior

This option is the most popular for home cooks. Stainless steel stays virtually free of scratches and dings.

One of the best advantages of this lining material is that it does not tarnish or darken with use no matter the temperature.

One disadvantage is that using high heat will cause your liner to separate from the copper and you might need to replace your pan sooner rather than later.

You can use any utensil you want with this material, but the surface is not non-stick. This copper pot version is the only kind you can use in the dishwasher.

Health Benefits of Cooking with Copper Cookware

Copper has natural antibacterial capabilities. Bacterial growth may not be a big concern with these pans. Copper is a necessary component of minerals the body needs. Using these pans regularly might be a good source of copper in your diet.

Cookware with tin lining also has advantages. When using a copper pan with a tin liner, you get minute amounts of metal that are good for your body. Tin helps reduce tiredness and combats depression symptoms.

How to Cook with Copper Pots and Pans

Copper is a sensitive metal that will tarnish with high heat, open flames, and high pH levels. It is not magnetic meaning that it will not work on an induction stove. While you can get a liner that will let you use your copper cookware on induction stoves, these items are often difficult to use and may end up in the back of your cabinet or the basement.

Although stainless steel liners will not tarnish, the outside of your pans may discolor with high temperatures. Metal utensils are not good for your copper cookware although you can use them in the pans with the stainless steel linings.

See Also: How to Choose the Best Crepe Pan

The Best Way to Clean Your Copper Cookware

You may want to avoid the dishwasher when you own copper cookware. Although stainless steel liners can protect the inside of the pan, the outside will tarnish and scratch in the machine.

Emptying out your pans immediately is the best way to keep the cookware from discoloring. Avoiding salty and acidic foods is another thing we recommend.

Conclusion

Our top pick, the Matfer Bourgeat, may have been the most luxurious set in this review. You could think of them as art pieces that you could indulge in upon purchasing. However, we think that every copper cookware set is an investment. You have to dedicate your time in maintaining them from wiping them dry to polishing each piece every month to keep your set looking gorgeous.

Besides being eye candy, the best feature of every copper cookware is their ability to have an equally distributed heat. Who wouldn’t like perfectly seared meat? Nonetheless, you can also look into other copper cookware types from copper-bottom pans to copper-ceramic pots. The copper-bottom pans give you the heat-conducting ability of copper, while the copper-ceramic pots are as equally good-looking without the limitation in induction-cooking and dishwasher safety.