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For heating milk, cooking eggs, melting butter, making homemade custard and baby food, and even mulled wine. Saucepans are often underestimated, yet they are one of the most frequently used pieces of cookware in every kitchen. If you want to make cooking easier and treat yourself to a tool that will work for years without compromise, it’s worth paying attention to your choice.
Most popular saucepans according to our customers' ratings
Saucepan Material – The Main Key to Success
- Stainless steel looks elegant, is resistant to corrosion, odours and stains, and is easy to maintain. Stainless steel saucepans are great for everyday cooking and are especially effective when they have a multi-layer sandwich base – this ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning.
- Stainless steel itself has worse thermal conductivity than, for example, aluminium or copper, and therefore may be slower to heat up without a quality base. Some cheaper models may experience uneven heating.
- Aluminum stands out for its lightness and excellent thermal conductivity – saucepans made of this material heat up very quickly and evenly. Cast aluminum tends to be more robust and durable than pressed aluminum, and non-stick surfaces make cooking without fat and subsequent cleaning easier.
- Softer material is more prone to deformation. The non-stick surface requires caution (metal utensils or harsh washing can damage it), and you should also expect it to wear out over time.
- Titanium saucepans excel in extreme durability, long life and excellent heat distribution. They are non-stick and scratch-resistant. They are ideal for intensive everyday cooking and can withstand higher temperatures.
- They have a higher purchase price, but this reflects their high quality and longevity. Some models have a more solid construction, so they can be heavier to handle – on the other hand, they are very stable.
- Copper saucepans are a professional choice – they react extremely quickly to temperature changes, allowing complete control over food preparation. Plus, they look fantastic and add a touch of luxury to the kitchen. The inner layer is most often made of stainless steel, which ensures easier maintenance and safe use.
- Higher price and the need for regular care of the copper surface (polishing to prevent tarnishing). In addition, Copper is a relatively soft metal that can be prone to scratches or dents if the saucepan is handled improperly.
- Ceramic saucepans are popular for their naturally non-stick surface. Cooking in them is gentle on ingredients, and the surface resists scorching well. They are especially suitable for preparing lighter dishes – sauces, vegetable mixes or milk-based meals. Thanks to the neutral surface, they do not affect the taste or aroma of the dish in any way.
- Ceramics are more fragile and less resistant to impacts and temperature shocks. Over time, it loses its non-stick properties and can easily crack if handled carelessly.
Saucepan size? Depends on the purpose
- Small saucepans (0.5–1 litre)
Great for small tasks you do every day – melting butter, heating milk or cooking baby porridge. Thanks to their size, they heat up quickly and are easy to operate with one hand. They also work brilliantly as an aid when serving – for example, sauces or melted chocolate. - Medium saucepans (1–3 litres)
The most versatile size that you’ll use almost every day. Ideal for preparing sauces, smaller portions of soup, risotto, boiled eggs or side dishes such as couscous, buckwheat or rice. If you're cooking for two to four people, you certainly won't go wrong with this size. - Large saucepans (4–5 litres)
Suitable for cooking for the whole family, when preparing broths, goulash or a succulent ragu. You'll also appreciate them when cooking in bulk at the weekend or when hosting visitors. Thanks to the higher walls, it retains heat well and allows comfortable mixing without the risk of overflow.
High-quality non-stick saucepans
Saucepan shape: taller vs. wider
Taller, narrower saucepans are ideal for cooking liquids – such as broths, milk or porridge. It retains the temperature for a long time and minimises evaporation. Conversely, wider saucepans with a larger base area are used for preparing thicker dishes, sauces or for reduction. They provide a larger contact surface with heat, so the contents are ready faster and evenly cooked. The wide shape also makes mixing and serving easier.
Handle = ergonomics and safety
The handle should be sturdy, well-shaped and comfortable to hold, so that the pan can be handled safely even when full. If you are looking for a saucepan that can also handle baking in the oven, opt for a model with a stainless steel handle. Conversely, plastic or wooden handles stay cool to the touch during cooking and are easy to grip, but are not suitable for oven use. Also, pay attention to the way it is attached – the most reliable are riveted or firmly welded handles, which can withstand everyday use without loosening or wobbling.
Premium copper saucepans
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Saucepans:
Details that make a big difference
- Spout
A seemingly minor detail, but incredibly practical. A Saucepan with a spout (preferably double-sided) makes pouring sauces, soups or milk much easier without dripping. - Internal measurement scale
If you're cooking according to a recipe or want to quickly measure water for porridge, a saucepan with a measuring scale inside will save you time and extra dishes. - Pot lid with straining option
Some saucepans have pot lids with holes for easily straining water from pasta, vegetables or potatoes. Practical, safe and without the need to use a colander. - Double handle
For larger and heavier saucepans, you'll appreciate a small opposite loop, which allows you to hold it comfortably and safely with both hands, especially when it's full of hot sauce. - Hob compatibility
When choosing a saucepan, be sure to check its compatibility with your hob. Bear in mind that copper doesn't usually work on induction hobs. - Oven compatibility
Even if you primarily use a saucepan on the hob, being able to put it in the oven can be useful. Check the maximum temperature that its handle, pot lid and surface can withstand. - Dishwasher suitability
Not every saucepan is suitable for dishwashers. If you insist on this form of maintenance, check the manufacturer's instructions before purchasing. - Worth the investment
Although a saucepan is a small thing, it's used very often and for a long time. A quality model will reward you by preventing burning, making cooking faster, maintenance easier, and lasting for years.
Most popular stainless steel saucepans based on our customers' ratings
The best saucepan brands: quality you'll recognise instantly
If you're choosing a saucepan that will be a joy to cook with, we recommend betting on proven manufacturers who combine top quality with an emphasis on detail and aesthetics:
de Buyer
A French brand with a rich tradition, producing cookware for home cooks and professionals alike. Their stainless steel and copper saucepans are among the very best, not only in terms of performance but also longevity.
Eva Solo
Scandinavian minimalism, clever features and a design that looks great on any dining table. Eva Solo saucepans are lightweight, practical and ideal for everyday use – for example, with a pouring lip, measuring scale or for induction.
Mauviel
If you're looking for the best the world of copper cookware has to offer, look no further than Mauviel saucepans. They are made by hand in France and provide maximum control over cooking. Suitable for discerning cooks who appreciate the combination of performance and artisanal elegance.
de Buyer
A French brand with a rich tradition, producing cookware for home cooks and professionals alike. Their stainless steel and copper saucepans are among the very best, not only in terms of performance but also longevity.
Eva Solo
Scandinavian minimalism, clever features and a design that looks great on any dining table. Eva Solo saucepans are lightweight, practical and ideal for everyday use – for example, with a pouring lip, measuring scale or for induction.
Mauviel
If you're looking for the best the world of copper cookware has to offer, look no further than Mauviel saucepans. They are made by hand in France and provide maximum control over cooking. Suitable for discerning cooks who appreciate the combination of performance and artisanal elegance.
FAQ
Most frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a saucepan and a small pot?
Yes, but only if it has a magnetic base. Always check the product specifications to see if it’s induction compatible.
Can a saucepan be used on induction?
Yes, but only if it has a magnetic base. Always check the product specifications to see if it’s induction compatible.
What's the best saucepan for sauces?
An ideal saucepan has a non-stick surface or is a heavy-gauge stainless steel model with a multi-layer base. A pouring lip is also important for easy pouring.
Can I put a saucepan in the oven?
Yes, if it doesn't have a plastic or wooden handle. Stainless steel and cast iron saucepans are ideal for the oven, but always check the maximum temperature resistance.
Is a pot lid necessary for a saucepan?
It's not essential, but it's very practical – it speeds up heating, prevents liquids from evaporating, and helps maintain temperature. If it's not included, we recommend purchasing a universal glass pot lid.