How to Choose the Best Cookware for Induction Cooktops
An induction cooktop is a sleek appliance in a modern kitchen. These exclusive stoves have been around for decades, but are slowly growing in popularity thanks to their streamlined profile, easy-to-clean surface, and even heating capabilities. The challenging issue with an induction stove is the requirement of compatible cookware, but many home chefs find it daunting to research and shop for the pots and pans that work the best on these cooktops. Explore our comprehensive buying guide and learn how to find the best cookware for an induction cooktop so you can start enjoying the benefits of this innovative appliance.
How Does an Induction Cooktop Work?
An induction stove features a smooth glass cooktop with copper coils just below its surface. Unlike an electric stove that heats the burner plate, the copper coils in an induction cooktop create a magnetic current just above the glass surface that heats only the bottom of a pot or pan. Once the cooktop is turned off, the surface cools instantly, making an induction appliance energy-efficient and ideal in a home with small children.
Pro Tip: The oven under an induction stove works just like a standard electric model; only the cooktop features induction technology, so you can continue to use your existing bakeware in the oven.
Best Material for Induction Cookware
The best cookware for an induction cooktop contains ferrous material in the base; use heavy, flat-bottomed pots and pans that make full contact with the heating element to cook food evenly. If your existing cookware doesn’t carry the induction-compatible symbol, place a magnet on the bottom of it to check for congruity. If the magnet sticks firmly, your pots and pans are induction ready; if not, it’s time to find cookware you can count on.
Cast Iron
If you’re one of the many people who wonder if they can use cast iron on an induction cooktop, you’ll be happy to know the answer is a resounding yes. One hundred percent authentic cast iron is highly magnetic, so whether you choose an enameled Dutch oven or an uncoated frying pan, this sturdy cookware will perform well on your induction stove. Avoid pots and pans listed as composite cast iron; this mixture of non-magnetic material is not compatible with an induction cooktop.
Pro Tip: Take extra care with heavy-duty cast iron cookware to avoid damaging the glass top surface of an induction stove.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the best materials for induction cookware. Stainless steel cookware is strong, corrosion-resistant, and warms up quickly for fast, high-heat searing and sautéing. Not only is stainless steel as tough as cast iron, but it’s also lighter and easier to maneuver, which is essential when working with a glass surface. Stainless steel cookware comes in different grades, and while most are compatible with induction cooktops, opt for a set with the lowest amount of nickel blended in to ensure a magnetic reaction. Check the manufacturer's information for confirmation prior to purchase.
Aluminum Blend
On its own, aluminum is non-magnetic and will not work on an induction cooktop. But when aluminum is combined with stainless steel, not only is the cookware induction-friendly, this durable material heats evenly for food cooked to perfection. A stainless steel base plate or middle layer draws the heat from the coils under the cooktop and distributes it across the pan for exceptional retention. Aluminum cookware blended with stainless steel is also lightweight, rust-proof, and built to last.
Pro Tip: Keep the bottoms of your induction pots and pans clean. Dirt, food debris, and grease can create a barrier between the cookware and an induction cooktop, causing the pan to heat unevenly.
Non-Compatible Induction Stove Cookware
Copper, glass, ceramic, nonstick, and aluminum pots and pans are not typically compatible with an induction cooktop. But as the popularity of induction stoves continues to grow, more manufacturers are constructing cookware with ferrous middle and bottom layers for compatibility. If you prefer cookware made in a non-metallic material, opt for a set that includes the addition of a ferrous base.
Best Brands for Induction Cookware
When it’s time to choose new induction pots and pans, count on trusted brands for an individual piece, specialty item, or a complete set. These are just a few well-known brands that offer high-quality, dependable cookware designed for use on an induction cooktop.
- GreenPan. The Magneto line from GreenPan includes cookware infused with ferromagnetic particles in the base for superior induction efficiency.
- Cuisinart. This highly recognized brand is practically a household name in kitchen appliances and accessories, but Cuisinart also offers induction-friendly stainless steel cookware.
- Le Creuset. From classic enameled cast iron to the nonstick PRO series that’s suitable for all cooktops, including induction, Le Creuset cookware offers professional-level performance.
- Anolon. Hard anodized aluminum and copper are mixed with magnetic stainless steel in induction-compatible Anolon Nouvelle cookware that looks sleek on the stovetop.
Now that you know how to choose the best cookware for induction cooktops, explore our cookware buying guide for a full breakdown of pots, pans, and specialty items ideal for any home chef, or browse through our advice and ideas section for other helpful kitchen and cookware tips.
