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Which Rachael Ray cookware set is best?
Whether you’re preparing an elaborate feast or throwing together a quick snack, the right pots and pans are essential in the kitchen. A comprehensive cookware set allows for a myriad of meals to be prepared with quality and efficiency.
Rachael Ray is among the leaders in cookware sets, offering a range of colorful options ideal for casual cooks shopping on a budget. Rachael Rays’s Cucina Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set allows for convenience in the kitchen. Understanding how cookware sets work and what sets apart Racheal Ray products is key to finding the right product.
What to know before you buy a Rachael Ray cookware set
Nonstick coating
A majority of Rachael Ray cookware sets feature nonstick coating. While these offer ease of use and simple cleaning, some maintenance is required to prevent the nonstick coating from wearing away. As these heat up rapidly, do not preheat an empty pan and avoid high temperatures. Only wooden or silicone utensils should be used, so they don’t damage the surface.
For more information on best practices and maintenance of such cookware, check out the nonstick cookware set buying guide at Best Reviews.
Material
Most cookware sets are made from aluminum, which some hard-anodized for more longevity. Aluminum is fairly lightweight and easy to clean. Some options are made from stainless steel, which is heavy, durable and offers a modern aesthetic. These options are more versatile, with potential use on induction stovetops.
Colors
One of the main appeals of Rachael Ray pots and pans is the satisfying array of colors offered. Most cookware sets are offered in varying shades, including both rustic and bright tones. Most options are inspired by foods, with options including cranberry red, pumpkin orange and lemongrass green. While most sets feature colors on the entire exterior, some stainless steel sets only boast accent colors on the handle or lid.
Quantity
Most Rachael Ray cookware sets include 10-14 pieces and usually include a pair of frying pans, sauce pots and a stockpot. Take note that matching lids to pots and pans are included in the piece count. Some sets may include a pair of utensils as well as a steamer pot or baking sheet.
What to look for in a quality Rachael Ray cookware set
Collections
The pots and pans in the Brights collection feature nonstick coating and eye-catching exterior colors. These are affordable aluminum options, including hard-anodized sets.
The Cucina collection boasts rustic, muted tones that may be better suited on display in a home with a farmhouse or pastoral aesthetic. Meanwhile, the Create Delicious Collection adds shimmer to the color and allows for safe usage in the oven and reinforced coating for increased durability.
Lids and rims
The best lids are made from shatter-resistant glass that retain both heat and moisture. Most rims on pots and pans also have flared edges. This allows for easy pouring that prevents drips and messes.
Oven safe
Most Rachael Ray pots and pans are oven safe, but the temperature limit will vary from model to model. Some may only allow for a maximum heat of 350 degrees for some basic meals. A 450 degree limit is preferable for maximum versatility. Though silicone handles may stay cooler than other materials, it’s important to use mitts when safely moving items in and out of the oven.
How much you can expect to spend on a Rachael Ray cookware set
Rachael Ray is known for its affordability. Most cookware sets featuring 10 or more pieces cost between $150-$200.
Rachael Ray cookware set FAQ
How should I store Rachael Ray pots and pans?
A. With the emphasis on color and convenience, Rachael Ray cookware sets should be accessible and on display. Many users may want to hang their sets from a rack. This will prevent the nonstick coating from being scratched when stacked or stored away, while also showing off the exciting colors. Some cookware sets, however, are designed to safely stack in order to save space.
What types of foods cook best in nonstick cookware?
A. Nonstick cookware welcomes a range of meals, but in particular, it takes well to more delicate fare, like fish or eggs. The nonstick surface prevents such items from ripping or tearing when cooking and serving. Nonstick cookware is also ideal for pan fried items.
What foods aren’t good for nonstick cookware?
A. Since nonstick cookware shouldn’t be used at high heat, searing or browning foods isn’t advised in these pots and pans. What’s more, acidic foods, like tomatoes or citrus, should not be used as they can accelerate the breakdown of the nonstick surface.
What’s the best Rachael Ray cookware set to buy?
Top Rachael Ray cookware set
Cucina Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
What you need to know: This popular, comprehensive set is ideal for aspiring and casual cooks looking to fill their kitchen with colorful cookware.
What you’ll love: The set is available in rustic, muted tones that stand out in the kitchen and includes a pair of utensils. All items are oven safe up to 400 degrees and feature shatter-resistant lids.
What you should consider: These pieces need to be washed and dried by hand and then hung instead of stacked.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond and Kohl’s
Top Rachael Ray cookware set for the money
Brights Nonstick 14-Piece Cookware Set
What you need to know: This affordable set features bright, vibrant colors that offer value for young chefs in need of convenience cooking pieces.
What you’ll love: This large set includes a useful baking sheet as well as a pair of matching silicone utensils and numerous vivid colors from which to choose. The set is lightweight and affordable.
What you should consider: Pots and pans are only oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and require careful maintenance to avoid breaking down.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond and Kohl’s
Worth checking out
Cucina Hard-Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set
What you need to know: One of the most durable cookware sets Rachael Ray offers, these pots and pans offer high functionality and add stunning aesthetics to the kitchen.
What you’ll love: This well-constructed set features shatter-resistant lids, double-riveted handles and hard-anodized aluminum. It is dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing even heating and fast cooking.
What you should consider: Only the lids and handles are colored and is one of the more expensive sets available.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond and Kohl’s
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Anthony Marcusa writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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