The Ultimate Guide to Made In Cookware: Quality, Performance, and Value
About Made In Cookware
Cooking a steak on the stovetop or caramelizing onions can significantly depend on the quality of the pan used. While I may not be a culinary expert, my passion for cooking remains strong.
Made In offers an impressive range of cookware sets, stock pots, knives, cookbooks, and various kitchen tools suitable for chefs of all skill levels. Crafted from high-quality stainless steel and carbon steel, their products are designed for durability and exceptional performance, ensuring reliable results for any dish you prepare.
The brand has established a solid reputation in the culinary world, receiving endorsements from well-known media outlets such as Forbes and Business Insider. It also enjoys a strong following, boasting a social media community of nearly 150,000.
If you’ve found your way to this review of Made In cookware, you may be curious whether the brand truly lives up to its reputation, just as I was. In the following sections, I will explore its top-selling items, customer feedback, promotions, and more. Let’s dive in and discover the truth.
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Overview of Made In
Made In is a relatively new American brand, established in 2017 by brothers Chip and Jake in Austin, Texas. They come from a family with a century-long legacy in kitchen supplies, which has deeply influenced their approach to cookware.
A century of experience in pots and pans is quite remarkable, and it undoubtedly provided the brothers with a strong foundation before launching their own venture. When they founded Made In, their aim was to transform the kitchenware industry they had known.
By collaborating with manufacturers in the United States, France, and Italy—arguably the finest locations for producing high-quality kitchenware—Chip and Jake ensured they partnered with family-owned businesses reminiscent of their own upbringing.
With a wealth of experience and partnerships with generations of artisans dedicated to crafting premium kitchen tools, Made In began its journey on a strong note. Over the past three years, their cookware has gained recognition in numerous 3-star Michelin restaurants and prestigious hotel groups throughout the United States.
For culinary enthusiasts reading this review of Made In Cookware, if you haven't yet dined at a Michelin Star restaurant, I highly recommend adding it to your list of experiences. I once visited a 3-star Michelin restaurant in Paris and savored the most exquisite mashed potatoes I've ever had. They remain a cherished memory.
Now, returning to the main focus—Made In's cookware. Their specialty lies in stainless steel clad products, and their mission is to create top-tier 5-ply cookware while offering it at half the price of their competitors.
During my journey as an aspiring chef, I have come to understand that cladding, often referred to as 'ply,' pertains to the number of metal layers present at the base and sides of various cooking vessels such as pots, pans, and skillets. This cladding is essential for creating a cooking surface that heats efficiently and uniformly.
However, a higher ply does not automatically equate to superior quality. The key factor influencing heat distribution is the overall arrangement of the ply layers.
Cookware can be quite complex, and I am here to clarify everything for you. Soon, you will find detailed information on the best-selling products from this brand, but first, here is a summary of this Made In cookware review:
Highlights
- High-quality, durable cookware and kitchen accessories
- Excellent performance of the cookware
- Products are priced at half the cost of other premium cookware brands
- The website and blog offer valuable guidance on cookware maintenance.
Made In Cookware Review
Why settle for a single high-performance pan when you can enjoy an entire collection? Made In’s stainless steel clad range features frying pans, nonstick frying pans, a butter warmer, a sauté pan, various saucepans, a saucier, stock pots, and silicone universal lids.
What I appreciate most is that all of the brand’s stainless steel cookware is dishwasher safe. In this review, I will highlight their best-selling frying pans and saucier.
Before diving in, it's worth noting that you can purchase most Made In cookware in four installments through Klarna. More details about this payment option can be found in the FAQ section of this review. Now, let’s explore further.
Made In 10” Stainless Steel Frying Pan Review
If I had to select my preferred type of pan, it would undoubtedly be this one. Frying pans are remarkably versatile, allowing for sautéing, searing, and sizzling.
Made In offers Stainless Steel Frying Pans in 8”, 10”, and 12” sizes, with the latter two being the most sought after. The website provides helpful descriptions to illustrate their capacities: a 10” pan can accommodate two chicken breasts, while a 12” pan can hold three to four.
The robust, 5-layered Stainless Steel Frying Pan is a true workhorse—its rapid and even heat retention allows for quick searing of meat, slow cooking on low heat, and oven roasting capabilities up to 800F (most pans are limited to 500F).
The 10” Stainless Steel Frying Pan, as shown above, features a generous depth, ensuring that unless overfilled, ingredients remain securely inside. This is particularly beneficial for someone like me who frequently prepares stir fry.
On the topic of frying, one satisfied customer shared their enthusiasm with Made In: “I have been using standard cookware since I began cooking. Everything tastes better with Made In, but the best part is that nothing sticks, and they look fantastic! Every home cook deserves to treat themselves to this.”
The pan is designed to be lightweight and features an ergonomic handle that remains cool to the touch, making it easy to lift and maneuver. If you've ever experienced the discomfort of grabbing a hot handle while cooking, you can appreciate the safety and convenience of cool-touch handles. It's a wonder my fingertips have survived.
As a helpful tip, Made In recommends avoiding metal utensils with their stainless steel cookware. Although this material is durable and built to endure, using metal utensils can lead to minor scratches that may detract from the polished appearance of the steel.
The prices for the 8”, 10”, and 12” Stainless Steel Frying Pans are $65, $75, and $89, respectively.
Made In 3-Quart Stainless Steel Saucier Review
I have come across this pan multiple times, yet I was not entirely clear on its purpose until Made In provided clarity. It is known as a saucier, specifically crafted for making sauces and gravies, although its capabilities extend beyond that.
This 3-quart saucier serves as a versatile kitchen tool, suitable for sautéing, crafting soups, stews, and risottos, as well as boiling rice and vegetables, among other uses.
What I found particularly impressive is that the Made In Saucier features a uniquely rounded bottom, which prevents ingredients from becoming trapped in the corners, facilitating easier stirring and whisking.
Its 5-ply construction ensures even cooking of sauces from the base to the walls, eliminating hot spots. Additionally, the Saucier is lightweight and equipped with a cool-touch handle, enhancing its maneuverability.
The 3-Quart Saucier and lid from Made In received recognition from the New York Times for its exceptional performance. Alex Tubero, Executive Chef at Amali, highly recommends it:
“The Saucier is our go-to when preparing homemade pasta at Amali; the rounded bottom allows for a smooth sauce without ingredients sticking to the edges.”
While the initial investment of $99 may seem significant, the versatility of this pan guarantees extensive use over time.
Made In Cookware Frying Pan Review
I was pleased to find that Made In's carbon steel line is as extensive as its stainless steel counterpart. The collection features frying pans, a paella pan, a grill frying pan, a wok, a roasting pan, and a roasting rack, along with various pan sets and kits for added convenience.
Made In's carbon steel cookware is compatible with induction cooktops and works well on glass stovetops as well. It is important to note that carbon steel requires seasoning before use and should never be placed in the dishwasher.
Klarna payment options are available for all customers. I will now examine two of their most sought-after carbon steel frying pans.
Made In 10” Carbon Steel Frying Pan Review
Made In’s Carbon Steel Frying Pan has been recognized by Chowhound as the “best carbon steel skillet,” which is quite a commendation.
This frying pan is offered in both 10” and 12” sizes and features a unique hybrid design that merges the benefits of a cast iron skillet with those of a stainless steel frying pan. It truly offers the best of both worlds.
The pan boasts the heat retention, seasoning, and non-stick properties of cast iron, while also providing the heat control, lightweight design, and quick cooking capabilities of stainless steel. Remarkably, these pans are oven safe up to 1800°F.
Similar to the Stainless Steel Frying Pans, these models have considerable depth, allowing for easy stirring and flipping of ingredients. The 10” version is perfect for searing a large steak or preparing two smaller cuts of meat, as well as frying up delicious sunny side up eggs.
One reviewer shared a photo of their perfectly cooked eggs and remarked, “Finally a pan that sits evenly on my stove, so I don’t have to worry about uneven cooking. I like them so much I gave one to my son to try!!”
The 12” pan is capable of searing two large steaks, sautéing vegetables, and even roasting a small chicken. Writing this is making me quite hungry.
The Made In Carbon Steel Frying Pans are priced at $69 for the 10” version and $89 for the 12”.
Made In 11″ Carbon Steel Grill Frying Pan Review
Made In’s 11″ Grill Frying Pan has garnered attention in the New York Times, reinforcing its reputation for exceptional performance.
Constructed from lightweight, highly conductive, and durable carbon steel, this pan features 62 perforations that facilitate direct flame contact. Impressive, right? But there’s even more to it:
This pan is ideal for outdoor cooking—it's portable enough for camping trips yet robust enough for regular use on the patio.
The Grill Frying Pan can withstand temperatures up to 1800°F, and its naturally nonstick surface means you won’t spend time scraping food off. One reviewer noted, “We love the pans and the ability to prepare food without a lot of oil and fat.”
Additionally, it is priced at $75.
Made in Cookware Knives Review
Just as I have discovered that high-quality pots and pans influence the outcome of my meals, I have come to realize that the same principle applies to knives. If you’ve ever used a dull blade, you understand the difference it makes.
Made In Knives are available for individual purchase, featuring appealing handle colors such as red, grey, and silver. As someone who appreciates aesthetics, I find these options important for maintaining a visually pleasing kitchen. Additionally, you can opt for sets that include paring and utility knives, perfect for those looking to build a comprehensive knife collection.
Made In also offers a range of accessories designed to enhance your culinary experience. To ensure your pots and pans remain in excellent condition, you can find a stainless steel cleaner and carbon steel seasoning wax.
Completing the collection are elegant items such as a 100% maple butcher block, silicone universal lids for frying pans and pots, a handcrafted beechwood spoon, a sheet pan, and a selection of cookbooks. Now, let’s explore the top sellers.
Made In 8” Chef Knife Review
The Made In 8” Carbon Steel Chef Knife has been recognized as one of the top chef knives by Good Housekeeping, a testament to its quality and performance.
This highly regarded knife is crafted from 100% fully forged carbon steel, meaning it is made from a single piece of premium metal. It features a NITRO+ hardening treatment that guarantees a sharp, durable blade, complemented by a handle that is firmly attached with robust stainless steel rivets.
Weighing in at a manageable size, the 8.5” blade allows for effortless maneuverability. Its design is versatile, making it ideal for a variety of tasks including slicing, chopping, dicing, deboning, mincing, and scoring dough.
Priced at $89, the Made In Chef Knife can also be personalized with an engraving for an additional $20, which adds a thoughtful touch.
Considered an essential tool for any home cook, one satisfied customer remarked on its precision: “I bought this knife for my husband, who does all the cooking in our house and learned about Made In from Food Network/Bobby Flay. He says it’s the best chef knife he has ever owned.”
Sharp knives significantly enhance the efficiency of chopping and slicing—just be cautious with your fingers.
Made In Cookware Sets Review
I appreciate the practicality of bundled products. Cookware should not be an exception. Made In offers a range of top-selling cookware sets that simplify the process of upgrading your kitchen, making it both economical and, quite frankly, an obvious choice.
Now, let’s explore some of the most sought-after cookware sets from Made In.
Made In The Starter Kit Review
My enthusiasm for bundles stems from their convenience and cost-effectiveness. Made In’s sets offer savings ranging from 11% to 21%, depending on the specific kit.
One standout option is The Starter Kit, which encompasses all the essential items, including:
- 10″ Stainless Steel Frying Pan
- 10″ Blue Carbon Steel Frying Pan
- 2 QT Saucepan with Lid
- 8 QT Stock Pot with Lid
- 2 oz can of Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax
Notably, three of these items are bestsellers in their own right, but together in this set, they become indispensable tools in your kitchen.
Another appealing aspect of this set is its recognition as Consumer Reports’ Best Stainless Steel Cookware Set for 2019, underscoring the reliability of Made In products.
At a price of $530 (reduced from $590), this set represents an excellent value. In my review of Made In cookware, I found that the total retail value of these items would typically be $609, highlighting the savings.
Here are a few additional Made In kits you might consider:
- The Sous Chef kit features the 10″ Non Stick Frying Pan, 10″ Stainless Clad Frying Pan, 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan, 2 QT Saucepan with Lid, 4 QT Saucepan with Lid, 3.5 QT Saute Pan with Lid, 8 QT Stock Pot with Lid, and Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax for $599 (discounted from $734).
- The Executive Chef kit includes the 8″ Non Stick Frying Pan, 10″ Non Stick Frying Pan, 10″ Stainless Steel Frying Pan, 12″ Stainless Steel Frying Pan, 12″ Blue Carbon Steel Frying Pan, Blue Carbon Steel Wok, 2 QT Saucepan with Lid, 4 QT Saucepan with Lid, 3.5 QT Saute Pan with Lid, 8 QT Stock Pot with Lid, and three cans of Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax for $799 (reduced from $1012).
- The Frying Pan Set consists of the 10″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan, 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan, Carbon Steel Wok, and Seasoning Wax for $259.
- The Knife Set features Chef, Santoku, Paring, and Utility Knives for $275 (discounted from $317).
Who is Made In Cookware for?
Cooking for oneself is an inevitable part of life, and Made In simplifies this experience with its thoughtfully designed, durable products.
I particularly value the resilience of the cookware, which is suitable for professional chefs yet accessible to anyone willing to invest in premium kitchenware. Made In’s pots and pans resist tarnishing, making them easy to use and clean, allowing you to appreciate the impact of these high-quality items in your culinary endeavors.
Given that the brand is on the higher end of the price spectrum, I recommend reviewing the details in this Made In cookware assessment alongside your personal financial considerations. The brand now offers worldwide shipping, which is a recent development.
Comparison: Made In Cookware vs. Caraway
Examining my kitchen cupboard reveals a diverse array of cookware from various brands. Throughout my culinary journey, I have selectively gathered pieces, realizing that multiple brands offer valuable options.
In this segment of my Made In cookware review, I will draw a comparison between Made In and Caraway.
Established in 2018, Caraway cookware aims to provide a convenient, one-stop solution for dependable, non-toxic cookware. Their product range includes sauté pans, pots, frying pans, and Dutch ovens, making it clear that this brand covers all the essentials for a well-equipped kitchen.
Both brands were founded within a year of each other, giving them equal opportunity to refine their product offerings and enhance their services. So, which brand has made a more significant impact? Here are my thoughts:
Caraway boasts an impressive selection of products, with many available for individual purchase as well as in sets, similar to Made In. Additionally, Caraway provides a range of linens and accessories, including oven mitts, towels, aprons, and heating pads. In contrast, Made In offers these accessories along with glassware, knives, cookbooks, and cleaning supplies.
A key distinction between the two brands lies in the materials used for their cookware. Caraway utilizes ceramic for all its pans to eliminate toxins, whereas Made In employs 5-ply carbon, clad steel, and copper in its products. While the materials differ, all are recognized as non-toxic.
Given the extensive product lines of both companies, a straightforward comparison can be made regarding the pricing of cookware sets.
The Made In Starter Set is priced at $529 for six pieces, while Caraway offers their Cookware Set for $395, which includes four pieces.
Although Made In appears to be the pricier option, it becomes evident that their cookware set provides greater value compared to Caraway, resulting in a lower average cost per pan. Additionally, Made In includes a cleaning wax in their package to ensure proper maintenance of the cookware.
Ultimately, both brands excel in delivering high-quality, non-toxic, and ergonomic cookware for the kitchen.
If you prefer a sleek and modern aesthetic, Caraway would be an excellent choice for your next upgrade. However, if you value classic, durable, and long-lasting cookware, Made In is the ideal option for you.
Made In Cookware Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
Leading media outlets have lauded Made In, yet I believe that customer feedback holds equal, if not greater, significance.
You can share your own review of Made In cookware on their website, which showcases thousands of customer comments. Out of 4,260 ratings, an impressive 95% of customers awarded Made In products a perfect five stars. This statistic certainly caught my attention. Here are some excerpts from customer reviews:
- Stock Pot: “This is the BEST pot! This pot is awesome and used every day.”
- Sauté Pan: “I am pleased I chose Made In. These pans are excellent, and the quality is evident.”
- Carbon Steel Pan: “I own both the 10” and 12” carbon steel pans. After seasoning, they are genuinely nonstick.”
- Stainless Steel Frying Pan: “This is a sturdy, heavy, multi-ply pan at a fantastic price. I’ve been enjoying frying and searing with it.”
- Knife Set: “I purchased three knife sets. I love the 8-inch chef’s knife. It’s well-balanced, the handle is comfortable, and it looks great. The other two knives are also a pleasure to use.”
While this feedback is impressive, my review of Made In cookware doesn’t end here—I also sought out comments from other sources online.
Wired published a review of Made In cookware, highlighting that the performance of the pans varied significantly during testing. The reviewer observed a "doming" effect in some of the pans, despite Made In's assertion that their surfaces are flat.
The Kitchen Witches also reviewed Made In cookware, offering a predominantly favorable assessment, though they expressed concerns about the pricing. Nonetheless, the author emphasized that the cookware is a worthwhile investment and that the brand is exciting.
The Cookware Advisor stated that Made In fulfills its commitment to providing high-quality cookware at reasonable prices, resulting in a "strong buy recommendation" for the brand.
Considering the feedback from various sources, both on and off the Made In website, I can confidently say that investing in their kitchenware is a wise choice.
While the prices are higher than those of more budget-oriented cookware brands, I believe the quality justifies the expense.
Is Made In Cookware Worth It?
Having examined the best-sellers, compared this brand with others in the market, and reviewed customer feedback, I can confidently endorse this brand in my Made In review.
With a diverse product lineup and the practicality of cookware sets, this brand meets all kitchen needs.
Additionally, it's noteworthy that Made In Cookware is utilized in Michelin-starred establishments, is more affordable than many professional cookware brands, and offers blogs on its website that provide care tips, recipes, and advice on protecting cookware from heat.
However, it's essential to acknowledge the reality of the pricing for this cookware line. While it is relatively expensive, it remains slightly more affordable than the average professional brand.
Budget-conscious consumers might hesitate due to the pricing, but I believe that high-quality cookware typically comes with a significant price tag, regardless of the brand.
In summary, whether for casual cooking or professional use, Made In Cookware is certainly a brand worth considering.
Where to Buy Made In Cookware
To explore the complete collection, visit the official website at madeincookware.com, where Made In products are available for purchase. Additionally, you can find a selection of items at partner retailers such as Bed, Bath & Beyond and Amazon.