Quick Summary: We’ve looked at a variety of options for high-quality copper pots and pans, but in the end, when you purchase the Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Cookware Set, you are getting the best copper cookware at a very reasonable price, along with its reliable lifetime warranty. Of course, if you are shopping for a chef’s sugar pan, the Mauviel M’Passion Copper Sugar Saucepan with Copper Handle simply can’t be beaten.
Choosing between copper cookware sets is difficult. There are numerous different sets you can choose between, and cookware is a long-lasting item; you don’t want to make your decision in a rush and then regret it later.
There are a number of different factors you should take into account before making your choice. Some of these include whether or not the cookware has a stainless steel exterior, if it’s is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, and if the pans offer an even heat distribution. There are pros and cons to even the best cookware sets, and we will review some of your options in this article.
You should consider copper cookware that will be easy to use, easy to clean, and that will heat evenly. Copper cookware set can look nicer than just about any other cookware option, so if it’s important to you to have cookware that looks good in the kitchen, copper might suit you better than a lot of other options out there.
Fortunately for you, we will break down everything you need to know and provide a list of our recommendations for the best copper pots & pans on the market today. Read on to learn all about the best copper cookware available for you to purchase!
Quick Navigation
- Top Copper Cookware Comparisons
- Top 10 Copper Cookware
- How To Choose The Best Copper Cookware?
- What Are The Top Features Of The Best Copper Cookware?
- Types Of Copper Cookware
- How To Clean The Inside Of Copper Cookware?
- Our Recommendation
Top Copper Cookware Comparisons
 | 1. Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Cookware Set | Read Our Review |
 | 2. Cuisinart Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set | Read Our Review |
 | 3. Calphalon Tri-Ply Copper 10-Piece Set | Read Our Review |
 | 4. Mauviel M’Passion Copper Sugar Saucepan with Copper Handle | Read Our Review |
 | 5. DEMMEX Copper Saucepan with Lid & Helper Handle | Read Our Review |
 | 6. Copper Chef Cookware Set with Deep Square Pan & Frying Pan | Read Our Review |
 | 7. Gotham Steel Hammered Cookware Copper Collection | Read Our Review |
 | 8. Copper Chef 9-Pc. Cookware Set | Read Our Review |
 | 9. MICHELANGELO Copper Pots & Pans Set with Ceramic Coating | Read Our Review |
 | 10. Mauviel M’heritage Copper Cookware Set with Bronze Handles | Read Our Review |
Top 10 Copper Cookware
We’ve compiled the copper cookware reviews to help you find the set that meets your need and budget.
Best overall
1. Lagostina Martellata Tri-ply Hammered Stainless Steel Copper Oven Safe Cookware Set
This attractive tri ply stainless steel 10 piece set features a hammered exterior for that old-world charm while providing fast and even heating to your food.
It is the best copper cookware set for preparing fine dishes on the stovetop and finishing them in the oven using temps up to 500F.
You will find a full collection of pans including a 7-inch and 9-inch frying pan, along with a 2-quart, 3-quart, and 6-quart pot ready to help you prepare almost any kind of dish.
The 10-inch saute pan with its high sides is perfect for searing meats with a polished stainless steel interior. All of the pans come with stainless steel lids that seal in moisture and heat.
The Lagostina Martellata hammered should be maintained using a soft cloth and copper cleaner to remove oxidation a few times a year.
However, the patina of a well-used copper cookware never interferes with its performance in the kitchen.
Triple-layer construction offers even heating and rugged durability. The manufacturer sends these pans to your home with a limited lifetime warranty, so you know you are investing in a high quality set. It’s is truly one of the best copper sets in appearance.
Pros
- Beautiful hammered exterior
- Oven-safe up to 500F
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not recommended for the dishwasher
- Overly heavy construction makes it awkward to move pans about the kitchen
- Pay a premium for the exterior–not the performance
Best budget
2. Cuisinart Tri-Ply Copper Cookware Set
Cuisinart is well-known for producing quality kitchen accessories at a more affordable price, and this set of the best copper cookware is no exception to that rule.
This 8 piece set comes with a polished copper finish, that blends well with the most contemporary decor.
You are only receiving 8 pieces in this set, instead of 10, but that basically boils down to losing one pan.
There is a 2 1/2-quart and 4-quart saucepan, 2 frying pans, and the saute pan. Like its competitor, they can pop into the oven up to 500F and the handles stay cool to the touch when cooking on the stovetop.
Cuisinart features its Heat Surround Technology which helps to dissipate great heat up the sides of the pan for more even and thorough cooking when working sauces and stews. This set can be used on gas, electric, and glass-top stoves, but doesn’t work with induction.
Care should be taken to avoid scratching the exterior of the pans, as the polished finish will show each and every defect. However, users report that for the price this set of copper cookware performs exceptionally well.
Pros
- More affordable price point
- Polished exterior works well with modern kitchen decor
- Provides even quick and even heating up the sides of the pans
Cons
- Made in China
- These are not non-stick pans–you will be cooking with oil
- Metal utensils will scratch the cooking surface
3. Calphalon T10 Tri-Ply Copper 10 Piece Set
Calphalon has built itself quite the reputation for quality cookware over the years and this set offers its iconic shapes and stay-cool handles that are probably part of your kitchen. This is the best copper cookware when looking for value and variety in one convenient collection.
You will receive the usual collection of pans including two sizes of frying pans, two sauces pans, the large 6-quart pot and a saute pan.
They are able to transfer from the cooking top to the oven, but only up to 450F, so no broiling under any conditions.
The exterior is brushed copper, which complements the brushed appearance of the interior stainless cooking surface. They are not specifically designed as showpieces, but rather workhorses for your home and look the part.
All that being said, users have reported that this set has a lighter and thinner construction compared to Calphalon sets manufactured more than 10 years ago.
The lids are reported as feeling flimsy. However, the company still stands by their product with a full lifetime warranty, so if you have had success with Calphalon in the past, you have nothing to lose.
In the end, when you don’t want to spend a fortune and still get a great set of pots, this is the best bang for your buck.
Pros
- Great price for the number of pans
- Calphalon has a sterling reputation for producing quality pans
- No worries about losing the polish on the exterior
Cons
- Lids and handles feel thin
- Only oven and broiler safe up to 450F
- Must be hand washed
Check out some of the best Calphalon Pots & Pans here: Calphalon Pots and Pans Reviews
4. Mauviel M’Passion Copper 1.9-Quart Sugar Saucepan
Now, if you are hunting for a high quality copper pan to heat sugar in for your candy-making endeavors, you have come to the right place.
This Mauviel small 1.9-quart pan might cost a pretty penny, but it comes with the backing of centuries of cooking technology behind it.
Its thin construction conducts heat nearly instantly to the contents of the copper pan, melting sugar and reaching the boiling point no in time at all.
When you remove it from the burner, your mixture will rapidly cool ready to attain the exact consistency you need for caramel and other soft sweets. All this absolutely makes this the best copper cookware for candy making.
You would be purchasing this pan because you need professional tools for your candy shop or hard-core hobby. The conical copper handle is riveted to the pot, ready to stand up to years of abuse.
It offers a comfortable grip so you are able to better control the pour of your mixture into molds for cooling. It was designed and manufactured in France, the home of fine pastries and desserts.
Pros
- Great for boiling sugar for candy making
- Unlined copper provides near instant heat and rapid cooling
- Conical handle allows for more control when pouring
Cons
- Expensive-this is a fine instrument, not a soup pot
- Should not be used for cooking vegetables or sauces
- Easily dented
5. New DEMMEX 1.2MM Thick Hammered Copper Saucepan with Lid & Helper Handle
If you are shopping for a more traditional copper cookware, like the ones used in gourmet kitchens in the early 20th century, this DEMMEX saucepan just might meet your needs.
This is manufactured without triple-layering technology, instead of relying on the tried and true methods of lining the cooking surface with tin.
It features a handsomely hammered copper exterior with a polished handle.
The handle is not heat resistant and the pan should not be used in the oven. While the product is described as lead-free, that applies only to the pot itself.
There is no guarantee of what is in the handle or lid and since it is manufactured overseas, reliable information can be difficult to come by. Users report it is a quality pan that provides even heating and cooking.
This product is the best copper cookware for displaying your pretty pans, but perhaps not for daily cooking.
Pros
- Beautiful hammered exterior
- Traditional tin lining for rapid heating and cooling
- Quality construction
Cons
- No guarantees on if it is a lead-free product
- Single pan for a high price
- Handle gets hot while cooking
6. Copper Chef 10-Piece Cookware Set
What you will love: This is one of the best copper cookware sets on the market today. The copper pans work well even with great heat.
This set includes a 9.5-inch deep square pan, 9.5-inch square frying pan, tempered glass lid, fry basket, steamer rack, and even a bonus utensil set with items like a slotted spatula, pasta fork, sauce skimmer, and a stirring spoon. There is also a bonus cookbook from master chef Eric Theiss.
Some of the best features of this cookware set:
- Heat-resistant up to 850°F, you can use this cookware set for a variety of meals.
- Safe for the cooktop or in the oven, you will not need to buy special pots and pans that are not included in this set.
- Scratch-resistant – these items should last in good condition for a long time.
Pros:
- Non-stick ceramic coating, no butter or oil required.
- Bonus utensil set and cookbook included.
- Aluminum core construction for even heat distribution while cooking.
- Square pans have 25% extra room than circular counterparts.
Cons:
- Challenging to clean.
7. Gotham Steel Hammered Copper Collection
What you will love: Complete with muffin tins, this copper pan collection has everything you need for all of your cooking needs. Easy to maintain, you can throw everything from this copper pan set right into the dishwasher.
This set is great for baking in addition to cooking, and comes complete with: 8.5-inch frying pan, 10.25-inch frying pan with lid, 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, 5-quart stockpot with lid, stainless steel steamer, cookie sheet, round baking pan, square baking pan, loaf pan and muffin pan.
Some of the best features of this Gotham Steel Hammered Copper Collection:
- It has some unique features like tempered glass lids, to ensure nothing will get ruined even by using them at high temperatures.
- The tempered glass also makes it so you can monitor your cooking without taking the lid off and losing any of the heat while you are cooking.
- Non-stick and resistant to scratching, this set of pans copper will look like new even after many uses.
Pros:
- Non-toxic granite stone.
- Non-stick – no butter or cooking sprays required.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Oven safe & broiler safe.
Cons:
- Steel handles are thin and can be clumsy to use.
Check out other great Gotham Steal pots and pans here: Gotham Steel Pans Reviews
8. Copper Chef Cookware 9-Piece Round Pan Set
What you will love: If you prioritize aesthetics, this is a great option. You will love the clean copper look and feel of this cookware set. While it is pretty to look at, be careful when handling these pots. The handles can get hot and you should use pot holders when handling, even on the stove top.
This set includes: 5.8-quart casserole pan with 10-inch glass lid, 2.8-quart saucepan with glass Lid, 1-quart sauce pan, 10-inch round frying pan, 8-inch round frying pan, 9 x 3.5-inch round fry basket, and 9-inch round steamer tray.
- The stainless steel lining is great for use on induction stoves, so this set can be used on a wide range of stovetops.
- Safe in the oven up to 850°F.
- Steamer tray pans are great for vegetables.
Pros:
- Non-stick coating.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Stainless steel induction plate.
- Oven-safe up to 850 degrees.
Cons:
- While they are dishwasher safe, the company recommends you hand wash these items.
Here are some more Copper Chef pans to choose: Copper Chef Pan Reviews
9. MICHELANGELO Copper Pots and Pans Set; Non-stick 12-Piece
What you will love: One of the best non-stick options, while this set is not pure copper, the ceramic and titanium interior make this a viable non-stick option that is very scratch resistant.
12 pieces, this set includes: 5-quart large stock pot with lid and an 8-inch steamer insert, 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid, small skillet, and a medium skillet with lid.
- The flavor-lock lids work to ensure no flavors escape your meal.
- The cool grip handles make it easy to carry these between any cooking surfaces.
- Quickly and evenly works to heat and cook on any heat source.
Pros:
- Non-stick and scratch-resistant.
- Aluminum alloy is the best source of heat conductivity.
- Flavor-lock lids.
- Cool grip handles.
Cons:
- Loses non stickiness quickly
10. Mauviel M’heritage M250B 9-piece 2.5mm Copper Cookware Set
What you will love: While not pure copper, this copper/stainless steel combination works very efficiently, and is the best copper/stainless steel option available.
This set has bronze handles and includes: 1.9-quart saucepan with lid, 2.7-quart saucepan with lid, 3.2-quart sauté pan with lid, 6.4-quart stock pot, and a 10-inch skillet.
- The copper works to provide even heat distribution.
- The copper-color lids are a bit different, as many options on the market have lids that are glass or steel. If you are seeking that copper monochrome look, these pots might be for you.
- Responsive to changes in heat.
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty.
- Copper/stainless steel combination for effective heat control.
- Responsive to temperature.
Cons:
- Bronze handles can be hot to the touch.
How to Choose the Best Copper Cookware?
Before you buy, keep these quick tips in mind while shopping for the very best copper cookware:
Popular Brands
If you opt for a familiar quality brand like Calphalon, Cuisinart and even the European Lagostina, you are likely to get a good set of pans.
Beware one-off brands with no reputation.
Price/Budget
Purchasing copper cookware is an investment, not a quick solution to fill up your kid’s first apartment.
Expect to spend between $300 to $800 for a set that will last a lifetime–not just a few years.
Features for Durability
Look for triple-layer construction, riveted handles, and stainless steel lids. Lifetime warranties should also be included with your purchase.
Dishwasher Safe?
When you opt for copper cookware, you will be hand washing your pans.
Detergents will discolor the interior and exterior of your pans, but won’t harm its ability to perform.
Induction Stovetops
Unfortunately! copper cookware are not designed to work with induction cooktops.
Even if the product page says it is, it probably isn’t.
What Are The Top Features of the Best Copper Cookware?
- A quality copper set of pans will feature a triple-layer of metal, with a copper exterior, an aluminum insulating layer, and a stainless steel or aluminum cooking surface.
- Your pans should not be overly heavy or thick as the bottom layer of copper is crucial for proper heat transference. An extra heavy layer of stainless will only hinder the performance of the pan.
- It is entirely your choice whether you prefer a hammered or smooth exterior. The hammered exterior on most modern copper cookware sets is purely ornamental. It can require more labor to maintain its attractive appearance.
- Flat bottomed pans allow ceramic-top stoves to work well with your copper set.
Benefits of Copper Cookware
Copper cookware has perfect heat conductivity. It cooks through even heat distribution leading to better overall cooking and less of a chance of burning dinner. If there are any temperature or heat sensitive recipes you would like to try, using copper cookware is the best way to do so.
Copper stores heat well. Unlike with some cookware, meals cooked in copper will generally retain heat leaving dinner warm for longer. Its ability to store heat means that copper uses less energy which saves the owner money.
Copper has a very rapid response to heat. This means that it cooks faster than other materials, such as stainless steel. However, it also responds to the heat being turned down almost immediately. This gives the cook extreme temperature control.
Copper cookware is very beautiful when it is cared for. Since it is attractive, this type of cookware can be used to serve from at the table cutting down on extra steps in the kitchen.
Copper cookware is durable and long-lasting. The weight and thickness make the cookware stand against the test of time yet the pots are light enough that the cook can still lift it with one hand.
Copper is harmful to bacteria making it a hygienic and antibacterial cooking tool. Copper cookware kills more microbes during cooking than any other cookware reducing the risk of food borne illnesses.
Thanks to copper’s ability to adhere to any material it is lined with, it is very resistant to corrosion, keeping your pots cleaner and giving them a longer life.
Drawbacks of Copper Cookware
The copper cookware set can be highly reactive with foods meaning that over time, eating directly from copper cookware can be dangerous. Manufacturers are lining this cookware with tin or stainless steel to make them safer.
Copper can lose its luster over time. The owner will need to polish the cookware often to keep it shiny.
Copper cookware is not dishwasher safe. It must be both washed and dried by hand to keep it in good condition and free from spots.
Copper cookware is actually one of the most expensive types of cookware so it is an investment.
Types of Copper Cookware
As many benefits as cooking with copper may have, it is not without its problems. The biggest of these problems is the danger it can pose to your health if not properly made and maintained.
If copper cookware is not lined with another type of material, it can let off toxic fumes causing sickness, and in extreme cases even death.
Due to the health risks involved in cooking with copper, most manufacturers have begun making their products with more than just copper.
- Copper Clad- Copper is generally sandwiched in between two layers of steel. This allows for the copper to work well with fumes trapped in between the steel layers.
- Copper Ceramic– These cookware sets are made primarily from ceramic that is infused with copper. This combination is great for heat distribution and cleaning.
- Copper Bottoms and Copper Core– With both of these options, the cookware is made mostly of aluminum or steel with only a portion made of copper.
Is Copper Cookware Safe for Your Health?
Most modern copper cookware sets feature triple-layer technology which adds a protective layer of stainless steel or aluminum for the cooking surface.
This prevents any copper from leaching into your food and protecting the health of your family. If you use an unlined copper pan, it is possible for the mineral to seep into your food, especially if preparing highly acidic dishes like tomato sauces.
Nevertheless, if food is immediately removed from the pan after cooking, a negligible amount of copper may be introduced to the dish which should pose no threat to your health.
What Can You Cook in Copper Pots?
Copper cookware is best suited for most stovetop applications. Temperature sensitive sauces, eggs, fresh vegetables, and fish respond exceptionally well when cooked in copper.
If you are a baker, an unlined copper pan cannot be beaten for boiling sugar, as it will rapidly allow the temperature in the pot to rise to speed the process of liquefying sugar.
An unlined copper pan should not be used for day to day cooking.
How Does Copper Make Cooking Easier?
Copper is very good at conducting heat quickly and evenly. It also cools off much faster than other metals when removed from the heat.
Aluminum offers good heat transference but does not react with the speed that copper does.
Copper is a very soft metal and if you purchase a set of copper cookware with no additional lining of stainless steel, tin, or aluminum the pots can become deformed under even normal use.
Aluminum is one of the strongest metals making those pots nearly impossible to dent.
On the other hand, your copper pots can be beaten back into shape and continue to perform just like new. You will never get the dent out of an aluminum pan.
How to Cook in Copper Cookware Successfully?
You can cook pretty much anything in copper, but to do so, you should know how to use it correctly.
First, understand that cooking will be sped up so it is best to have everything out and prepared before turning on the pan. Have all chopping and slicing done first and have all ingredients within reach. Second, you should never preheat a copper pot.
As the copper heats so well, it will heat the lining off of your pan if there is nothing in it. At the very least, have it oiled before putting it to any heat.
While we are on the subject of that lining, try not to use any metal utensils while cooking on copper to prevent scratching the lining. Remember, this lining keeps you from cooking copper you’re your food.
Next, many people suggest cooking at half the temperature you normally would. For instance, if you normally cook pancakes on medium heat, start on low heat.
You will likely get the same results though you may need to adjust temperatures a bit to find the perfect one.
Lastly, avoid searing any meat in your copper cookware as searing temperatures are high enough to melt the lining off of the pan.
Copper Cookware vs Ceramic Cookware
Copper cookware is excellent for cooking vegetables, eggs, and even steaks on your stovetop as you are able to adjust the temperature in the pot almost instantly. Ceramic is designed to hold heat over a long period of time, making it the perfect option for baking dishes and slow-cookers.
A ceramic sauce pot will scratch over time and lose all of its non-stick characteristics. It can also shatter when dropped.
Ceramic is heavy, while your copper cookware will be much lighter.
There is a place and time for an elegant ceramic baking dish, but when considering a cookware set, copper will win out every time.
Copper Cookware VS Stainless Steel
Copper and stainless steel cookware are both popular options for cooks so how do you know which one to pick? As they both have ups and downs, it really depends on what you need. Following is a comparison of the two:
Stainless Steel:
Pros:
- Does not bend, chip or break easily
- Is dishwasher safe
- Holds up against heavy wear and tear
- Is non-reactive to foods
- Is the cheaper option
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Provides uneven cooking that can lead to hotspots and burned-on food
- Is prone to rust
- Lacks the luster of copper
Copper:
Pros:
- Provides even cooking
- Is rust and corrosion resistant
- Is hygienic and antibacterial
- Stores heat well
Cons:
- High maintenance
- Reactive to foods
- Is the more expensive option
- May dent easily
- Must be washed and dried by hand
The decision between the two is a personal one. Before deciding you should ask yourself questions such as:
- How much time am I willing to spend caring for these pots and pans?
- How important is it that they be dishwasher safe?
- How often am I willing to replace them?
- Do I cook temperature sensitive foods like sauces and candies?
Answering these questions should help you decide between stainless steel and copper cookware.
Copper Cookware VS Non-Stick
Let’s look at how nonstick pots and pans stand up against copper. We have previously discussed the pros and cons of copper cookware, but let’s reiterate to keep the comparison fresh:
Copper:
Pros:
- Is more hygienic
- Retains heat well
- Is durable when cared for properly
- Saves on energy usage
Cons:
- Is more expensive
- Requires a lot of upkeep
- Is not dishwasher safe
Non-Stick
Pros:
- Is easier to clean
- Is cheaper
- Is lightweight
- Is mostly durable
Cons:
- The nonstick surface may release toxic fumes while cooking
- May scratch or chip easily leaving some coating in your food
- Does not retain heat well so food quickly cools
Though nonstick may be more affordable and easier to care for, you should consider the health risks. The toxic fumes released may harm pets or humans so it may be worth the extra money and effort to upgrade to lined copper cookware.
How To Clean The Inside Of Copper Cookware?
After use, wash your copper cookware with liquid dish soap and warm water. For food that does not want to come off easily, put soapy water in the pot and simmer for about ten to fifteen minutes. This will loosen any stuck on food.
If you choose copper cookware that is unlined with another type of material on the inside, you must keep the inside clean and shiny between washes. If not, verdigris may transfer to your food and have health consequences.
There are two ways to remove this verdigris from the inside of your pan. You may either clean it with a vinegar and salt solution or sprinkle salt on a cut lemon and rub the pot or pan with it.
Be careful, though, as copper may scratch easily. Do not scrub with a scouring pad or the tough side of a sponge.
Our Recommendation for The Best Copper Cookware Set
Whenever you make a significant purchase, you want to make sure you do the right research so that you can be an informed buyer. Copper cookware is no different.
A good cookware set should last for years, and might even be something you can pass down to your children one day. We have chosen Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Cookware set as the best overall. But the final decision is yours.
We’ve done all the research for you, and after reading this article, you should be able to make a confident purchase of any one of these cookware sets. If you get the best copper cookware on the market, you will be thanking yourself every time you cook a meal from scratch.
