Saucepans

Saucepans and sauciers are staples in kitchens around the world. And while their shapes are similar—and both are often used in a myriad of ways—the pans are actually designed for different purposes. Saucepans, with their high sides (to keep liquids from bubbling over) and flat bottoms, which give the pans greater contact with the burner (and therefore more direct heat) are great for making grains and side dishes as well as sauces that don't necessarily need to be whisked. Meanwhile, sauciers, with their curved walls that make stirring easy, work particularly well for whisking sauces, making risotto, and tossing pasta in its sauce.

Stainless Steel Saucepans & Sauciers. Classics for a reason, stainless steel saucepans and sauciers, like those from All-Clad and Hestan, can stand up to metal whisks and cooking utensils, are typically dishwasher safe, and can, with proper care, often last for decades.

Non-Stick Saucepans. Whether you prefer traditional non-stick pans or non-stick ceramic saucepans and sauciers, it's best to use silicone spatulas, silicone whisks, and wooden spoons with pans featuring a non-stick surface. And when it's time to clean up, be sure to wash them by hand using non-abrasive sponges and detergents.