Choosing the best and right cookware set can be very challenging as many details to consider. If you have been on the lookout for easy-to-use and durable cookware, then the Calphalon Classic may be the best option for you.
With Calphalon Classic, there are three available options where you can choose from. If you’re not familiar with these products but interested to know more about them, then you’re in the right place.
I will guide you through the different Calphalon Classic reviews in today’s post. Below you will find the features of every cookware set so that you can easily find the best one for you. I will also include a buyer’s guide and other relevant information to help you make an informed decision. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
The 3 Calphalon Classic Reviews
Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel
- (1) 8-inch fry pan
- (1) 10-inch fry pan
- (1) 1.5-quart saucepan with lid
- (1) 2.5-quart saucepan with lid
- (1) 3-quart saute pan with lid
- (1) 6-quart stockpot with lid
What I Liked
- Oven safe up to 450-degree Fahrenheit
- Induction compatible
- It comes with a durable built
- It is possible to use all kinds of utensils like silicone, metal, wood, and nylon
- High-quality handles and lids
What I Didn’t Like
- The food sticks to the surface, especially if you don’t preheat the pan properly.
- There is no lid for the 8-inch frying pan
As the name implies, the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel is made from stainless steel. It also has an average gauge impact-bonded aluminum base. If you didn’t know, the gauge denotes the metal’s thickness. So, the heftier the gauge, the thicker the metal making it more expensive.
This cookware is made of brushed stainless steel when it comes to appearance. This stainless steel cookware is sanded using a brush with fine bristles giving the cookware a dull finish. The brushed option is more forgiving than the polished stainless that often leaves a mirror-like and bright finish. It’s because the brushed option can hide a small scratch and maintain its overall look with ease.
Further, the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel comes equipped with long stainless-steel handles. The handles are nearly 5-inch. They are also solid and riveted for additional strength. The company even claims that the handles remain cool, even the pans get hot. The handles are designed ergonomically. Meaning you can easily hold them while offering a more secure grip.
The lids are made of tempered glass. This feature is extremely beneficial because it lets you see what’s inside while cooking. So, you don’t need to open and allow the steam out. The handles of the lids are also stainless steel.
On the other hand, the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel can be safely used in the oven. You can use the pots together with the lids up to 450-degree Fahrenheit. As a reminder, the handle will become hot when placed in the oven. So be sure to use a potholder or mitt.
Aside from being oven-safe, it is also induction compatible. It means you can safely use it in gas, glass top cooktops, electric, and halogen.
Calphalon Classic Nonstick
- (1) 8-inch fry pan
- (1) 10-inch fry pan
- (1) 1.5-quart saucepan with lid
- (1) 2.5-quart saucepan with lid
- (1) 3-quart sauté pan with lid
- (1) 6-quart stockpot with lid
What I Liked
- It is one of the cheapest cookware collections from Calphalon.
- Oven-safe up to 450-degree Fahrenheit
- Tough and durable construction
- Easy to clean
What I Didn’t Like
- It should be cleaned by hand.
- The handle gets hot.
- The coat scratches easily when used improperly.
The Calphalon Classic Nonstick cookware is ideal for those looking for a nonstick surface capable of withstanding the rigidity of day-to-day cooking.
This cookware comes with a two-layer nonstick surface that releases food with ease. It also has a tough and durable hard-anodized build. In addition to that, the lids are tempered glass, while the handles are made of cast stainless steel. Actually, the lids feature straining holes that line up with the pour spouts that can be seen in the pots and saucepans.
The Calphalon Classic Nonstick cookware is also oven-safe up to 450-degree Fahrenheit. This feature will allow you to move the cookware from your stovetop to the open without any problem. However, when it comes to utensils, you should use either wooden or nylon to avoid damaging the surface.
Like the Calphalon Classic Stainless-Steel cookware, the nonstick option is also compatible with glass stovetops, electric, gas, halogen, and electric ring. One more thing, with this cookware set, you can boil, sear, fry, and sauté. But you shouldn’t use any cooking spray.
In the Calphalon collections, the Calphalon Classic Nonstick cookware is the cheapest. While it is quite expensive compared to other cookware brands, it’s entry-level cookware set for people who want to upgrade to a premium brand.
Believe it or not, the nonstick cooking surface of this product works amazingly. Also, it is very easy to clean as the food releases with ease.
Calphalon Classic Ceramic
- (1) 8-inch fry pan
- (1) 10-inch fry pan
- (1) 12-inch round griddle
- (1) 1.5-quart saucepan with lid
- (1) 2.5-quart saucepan with lid
- (1) 3-quart sauté pan with lid
- (1) 5-quart Dutch oven with lid
What I Liked
- It comes with a 10-year warranty.
- It has a classic and stylish look
- Features a lot of beneficial details like straining holes in the lids and pouring pouts.
- It has a genuine nonstick porcelain cooking surface
What I Didn’t Like
- It is not dishwasher-safe
- It’s not compatible with induction stoves
The Calphalon Classic Ceramic is made of hard-anodized. In fact, this material is known for distributing heat evenly. It even responds to temperature changes very rapidly. This will lead to faster cooling and heating periods.
While the ceramic option is designed for electric ring or glass stovetops, halogen, and electric, it’s worth mentioning that it isn’t compatible with an induction top.
Nevertheless, its white ceramic coating is nonstick. Actually, this performs well even without using any oil. The coating is also cadmium and lead-free, PFOA-free, and PTFE-free. Meaning, you’re completely covered on the safety front.
Similar to the Calphalon Classic stainless steel, the ceramic option is also equipped with stainless steel handles. While they stay cool a bit longer, know that during extended use, the handles will heat up. Hence, be sure to use a mitt or potholder.
When it comes to usability, this cookware set will not disappoint you too. It is a balanced set of cookware that can offer you options for several cooking methods. The cookware pieces are oven-safe up to 450-degree Fahrenheit. It means you can also use them for roasting and baking.
Further, the Dutch oven and saucepans have to pour stouts. There’s even an inbuilt strainer in the lids. This will allow you to drain pasta or another foodstuff more rapidly and you’re less likely to make a mess while pouring a sauce. Design-wise, the Calphalon Classic Ceramic sports a very classic look. It also has a space grey exterior and a shiny white interior. It can give a great contrast and, most importantly, go well with various kitchen styles.
Things To Consider Before Buying Calphalon Classic
The following are some of the most important things you need to consider when buying Calphalon Classic.
Durability
Like other cookware offered by Calphalon, the Calphalon Classic is also made to be durable. In fact, it can withstand day-to-day cooking. This line can offer years of steadfastness. The sturdy aluminum used in making the cookware and non-stick feature makes it easy to manage and clean. It can even survive the stress of day-to-day use through regular heat exposure and wash.
But keep in mind that the nonstick pans have a shelf-life based on how you handle them. When you use metal utensils like tongs and spatulas, you might end up scraping the cookware’s coating, which may lessen its lifespan.
On the other hand, be careful when washing the cookware. For example, the Calphalon Classic line needs to be hand-washed since putting the cookware in the dishwasher may damage it.
But when you follow the instructions and you’re careful every time you use them, the non-stick and ceramic Calphalon Classic will surely last for years. The Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel doesn’t come with the restrictions of the nonstick line. It can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher. What’s more, you can use any utensil.
Lastly, the stainless-steel cookware is not as weak as the non-stick options. In fact, this is one reason why many people choose the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel.
Warranty
Calphalon offers both lifetime and limited warranty, depending on the item. For the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel and Nonstick, the company guarantees a lifetime warranty. But for the ceramic option, it only comes with a ten-year warranty.
While the company offers a detailed warranty policy, according to Calphalon, it will only replace defective products in normal use. But it appears that the company will not pay for the shipping cost. It means the customer will need to pay for it.
In addition to that, remember that Calphalon won’t change any cookware because of minor imperfections and damage from usual tear and wear. To avoid any problem, be sure to care for your Calphalon Classic, whether it’s ceramic, nonstick, or stainless steel.
Heat Distribution
One of the best things about the Calphalon Classic line is that it guarantees easy cooking. The pans included in the Nonstick and Ceramic options come with a sturdy coating. They can also offer even and fast heating. When cooking, even heating is so important because it will ensure safety from the hot oil. It also offers protection against undercooked food. It will even affect the food’s taste by balancing the temperature.
On the other hand, the Calphalon Classic stainless steel’s bonded aluminum helps in ensuring even heating and at the same time amazing distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The following are some of the questions that are frequently asked about the Calphalon Classic line:
Is Calphalon Classic Broiler and Oven Safe?
Absolutely, yes. The design of this line is durable enough to be utilized in ovens up to 450-degree Fahrenheit. However, using the cookware in the broiler isn’t recommended. It is also worth mentioning that the handles may get hot when placed in the oven. Thus, to avoid injuring yourself, I highly advise that you use a mitt or potholder when taking out the cookware from the oven.
How To Cook Food With Nonstick?
When using the nonstick variants of the Calphalon Classic, you’ll need to utilize medium heat of the stovetop. Also, before you start cooking, make sure to preheat the pan first. You will need to preheat the nonstick a bit longer compared to aluminum and stainless-steel cookware.
To achieve a better outcome, you need to maintain the right temperature before adding oil and food.
Is Calphalon Classic Dishwasher Safe?
Bear in mind that Calphalon doesn’t advise cleaning their cookware set in the dishwasher. They highly recommend hand washing the cookware since it is much safer for the coating.
Do The Handles of Calphalon Classic Stay Cool While You’re Cooking?
When used on the stovetops, the handles will remain cool. But if you’re using an oven, it’s best that you use mitts to avoid hurting yourself. It’s because the handle may get too hot in the oven.
Does Calphalon Cookware Wear Out?
As we all know, every cookware deteriorates with time. In fact, it is up to you how long you can make use of your pans. Pans from Calphalon are made of premium quality. But keep in mind that the items will not last long, especially if you don’t use them correctly and follow the instructions.
To extend the life of your Calphalon Classic, be sure to use wooden utensils and maintain the pans on a regular basis.
Are The Pans Included In the Calphalon Classic Nonstick PFOA-Free?
Since 2012, new cookware needs to follow the regulations as well as be PFOA-free. While there’s still PTFE found in nonstick coatings, it’s worth mentioning that this will not cause harm when you’re cooking in traditional kitchens at a normal temperature.
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read the Calphalon Classic reviews from this article. I hope that at this point you’ve already made a decision about which item you should get.
All three sets can give great heat distribution. If you are looking for the best value for your money, you can never go wrong with the Calphalon Classic stainless steel. This cookware set has the most durable pans and pots. But you will need to use more oil when cooking to prevent sticking.
However, if you’re always preparing stick food, you might want to get the nonstick coating. The Calphalon Classic nonstick is easier to clean and comes all the same sizes as the stainless-steel line. It is also PFOA-free and will last longer if you clean and use it properly.
But if you’re looking for a cookware set that has a better nonstick surface, the Calphalon Classic Ceramic is for you. The cookware’s nonstick coating is PTFE and PFOA. It means it can guarantee a safer and healthier cooking experience. While the price is on the higher side, the ceramic variety lasts longer compared to conventional nonstick.
