Best GreenPan Set: A Buying Guide

Everyone knows the value of non-stick cookware. Cooking and cleaning are so much easier if you don’t have to scrape every last piece of food off the pan. However, traditional non-stick surfaces are made with harmful chemicals and plastics. Over time, those plastics can get into our food and our bodies, compromising our health. Luckily, there is an alternative. GreenPan offers non-stick cookware that uses a ceramic coating rather than plastic. This means the food you cook with GreenPan products is healthier and less toxic than food cooked with traditional non-stick kitchenware. GreenPan offers a full range of cookware sets and products, each with a slightly different purpose, so it can be difficult to know exactly which set is best for you. This buying guide will explain the differences between some of GreenPan’s more popular options, and help you find the best GreenPan set for you.

What Makes GreenPan Different?

GreenPan products are different from traditional non-stick cookware in several key ways. While most non-stick pans use chemically-treated plastic for the cooking surface, GreenPan uses a custom-made surface technology called Thermolon. This plastic-free non-stick coating is actually made from sand, so it has none of the toxic properties common to other non-stick products. Unlike most non-stick cookware, GreenPan’s Thermolon non-stick coating doesn’t include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS),perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), lead, cadmium, or other heavy metals. You can click the links to learn more about these substances, but just know these are toxic chemicals you don’t want anywhere near your food. Thermolon is also constantly in development, going through seven major revisions since its inception in 2007, which shows GreenPan’s commitment to delivering top-quality cookware made with a cutting-edge manufacturing process. GreenPan also uses sustainable business practices including an in-factory water treatment system, the use of recycled aluminum, and a roof covered in solar panels that deliver 30% of the factory’s electricity.

GreenPan Set Reviews

1. GreenPan Rio 16-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set

The Rio 16-piece set is the Cadillac of GreenPan cookware. It includes 16 separate pieces to satisfy even the most demanding cooks who require a variety of cookware. The set is made with GreenPan’s patented Thermolon non-stick coating, which is free of toxic chemicals. This means it never releases toxic and harmful fumes and will always provide a healthy cooking surface for you and your family. Plus, the diamond-reinforced surface is incredibly durable despite being ceramic, which is often criticized for lack of durability. The Rio set is dishwasher safe, though we still recommend washing it by hand. However, if you are pressed for time, you should be fine running it through the dishwasher. This set is also oven-safe up to 350 degrees F, including the glass lids. Plus, the Bakelite heat-resistant handle gives you a great grip while also staying cool. Specifications:

• Best for: Most complete set for the most demanding cook
• Brand: GreenPan
• Model: Rio
• Color: Black
• Included pieces: 3x frypans (5, 8, and 10 inches), 2x saucepans with lid (1.2 and 2.2 quarts) 1x sauté pan (2.8 quarts), casserole with lid (5 quarts), 1x stainless steel steamer, 4x bamboo tools

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2. GreenPan Lima 12-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set

The GreenPan Lima Ceramic non-stick cookware set is like the tougher version of the Rio that’s designed for higher heat. This set is rated to be oven and broiler safe at temperatures up to 600 degrees F, and the glass lids are safe at temperatures up to 425 degrees F. Also, the pot and pan bodies are made of hard-anodized aluminum and the handle is made from stainless steel. Both features add to the durability and heat tolerance. The non-stick coating is the same high-quality, non-toxic formula used in all GreenPan products, so you don’t need to worry about dangerous fumes. If your cooking plans require a large number of items plus high-heat cooking, opt for the Lima set. Specifications:

• Best for: High-heat cooking
• Brand: GreenPan
• Model: Lima
• Color: Black
• Included pieces: 1x saucepan with lid (2 quarts), 1x casserole with lid (5 quarts), 2x frypans (8 and 9.5 inches), 1x skillet with lid (2.75 quarts), 1x stainless steel steamer, 3x bamboo utensils (solid turner, slotted turner, and fork)

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3. GreenPan Hudson 8-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set

The Hudson set is like the junior GreenPan set, designed more for a one- or two-person kitchen setup rather than the previous two entries on this list, which are made for much more robust cooking requirements. This set has fewer items and lower heat tolerance, with a temperature rating of just up to 320 degrees F. However, if you don’t plan on doing any serious baking or casserole making, this set should be perfect for you. This set also features charming wood-finished handles to give a vintage look. If you need a set that is more form than function, the Hudson might be just right. As with the others on the list, all these items include GreenPan’s top-quality non-stick coating so your kitchen will be free of toxic fumes. Specifications:

• Best for: Vintage look and infrequent use
• Brand: GreenPan
• Model: Hudson
• Color: Black with brown handles
• Included pieces: 1x frying pan (9.5 inches), 1x frying pan with lid (11 inches), 1x saucepan with pour spouts (1.5 quarts), 1x sauté pan with lid (3 quarts), 2x nylon and wood utensils (solid turner and slotted spoon)

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4. GreenPan Valencia Pro 4-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set

The Valencia Pro set is unique on this list as it’s the only set designed for induction stovetop cooking. While it’s a smaller set designed for those who rarely cook, it’s great to have a good set of essential pieces ready and waiting should the need to cook arise. Induction stovetop cooking works by using electric currents to heat pans, rather than direct heat. The result is that the pan heats up almost instantly. The magic happens through magnetic induction, which limits heat distribution exclusively to the pan. It’s a great way to save energy and reduce fire danger. However, for induction technology to work, the pots and pans you are cooking with need to be specially designed with a magnetic bottom. If you have an induction cooker, this is the set for you. The Valencia Pro also includes GreenPan’s high-quality ceramic non-stick coating and anodized bodies for extra durability. Specifications:

• Best for: Induction compatible cooking
• Brand: GreenPan
• Model: Valencia Pro
• Color: Gray
• Included pieces: 1x saucepan (2 quarts), 1x frying pan (9.5 inches), 1x sauté pan (3 quarts), 1x interchangeable lid

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5. GreenPan Levels Stackable 6-Piece Ceramic Cookware Set

The Levels cookware set is unique because it’s the only set on this list designed to be stacked while stored. This makes it a great choice for anyone who has limited storage space. These pans can be stacked because they include a special new ceramic coating that is far more durable than previous versions. This formula is more scratch-resistant, making it possible to stack the pots and pans for storage. Another benefit of the improved formula is that the set is metal utensil safe. This wasn’t possible with previous non-stick versions because they were susceptible to scratching and damage. Specifications:

• Best for: Limited space
• Brand: GreenPan
• Model: Levels
• Color: Black
• Included pieces: 1x frypan (10 inches), 1x round grill pan (11 inches), 1x saucepan with lid (3.2 quarts), 1x stockpot with lid (6 quarts)

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The Best GreenPan Set FAQ

Let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about GreenPan cookware sets.

Is GreenPan Good Quality?

Yes, when compared to other ceramic cookware brands. GreenPan is one of the most popular ceramic cookware brands on the market due to its outstanding quality, workmanship, durability, and attention to detail. But remember, ceramic cookware is inherently less durable than other cookware types and requires special care during use, cleaning, and storage.

What Is the Best GreenPan Set?

This depends on your situation and needs. If you need to cook for a lot of people or plan to create complex dishes, we recommend using the Rio or Lima set. If you don’t plan to use the set often, we recommend the Hudson. If you have an induction cooker, you must go with the Valencia. If you are short on space, go with the stackable Levels set. Make sure you buy a set of cookware you will actually need and use. It might seem tempting to imagine yourself cooking multi-course meals with all these pots and pans, but if you haven’t done that any time in the last year or so, you might be kidding yourself. Get a set that suits your actual needs (and storage space) and add to it later should your inner chef truly be ready to emerge.

What Is the Difference Between GreenPan Lines?

The major differences between the sets are the number of items included, durability, heat tolerance, stackability, color, utensil type, and whether the cookware is induction-ready.

Is GreenPan Better than All-Clad?

Yes. While not featured in this buying guide, the Chatham set is another excellent cookware set from GreenPan. It’s a 10-piece set similar to the Lima set, but includes an extra saucepan, no strainer, and no bamboo utensils.

How Should I Handle My GreenPan Set?

Ceramic cookware is better than traditional non-stick cookware for a variety of reasons, but durability is not one of them. This is the major tradeoff you have to make when you switch to ceramic. Because ceramic is extra hard, it’s also more brittle, meaning it’s more likely to break or shatter if mishandled. Always remember to be gentle with your GreenPan cookware. If you take care of it, it will take care of you.

How Should I Store My GreenPan Set?

At first, this might not seem like a big deal but it’s an important consideration for ceramic cookware. You can’t just stack all the different pots and pans on top of each other because the delicate ceramic surface can be easily scratched and damaged. However, the Levels set on this list is designed for stacking, so you can do so safely without damaging the cookware. The same can’t be said for the other sets.

How Do I Maintain My GreenPan Cookware Set?

Maintaining ceramic cookware is simple. Just remember that the cooking surface must be treated with care so don’t use any highly abrasive cleaning materials. Even though most GreenPan sets are marked as dishwasher-safe, it’s best to clean ceramic cookware by hand rather than subjecting it to the harsh environment of a dishwasher. Avoid cleaning the pan when it’s still hot. Wait for the pan to cool before you clean it.

Can I Use Metal Utensils With My GreenPan Set?

No. A quick way to damage your ceramic cookware is by using metal spatulas or other cooking utensils. Stick to plastic, rubber, or wood to make sure the non-stick surface doesn’t get scraped or damaged. Don’t use your ceramic pan as a cutting board. Your knife will surely degrade the surface of the pan and shorten its lifespan.

Final Word on GreenPan Pots and Pans

GreenPan sets the standard for ceramic cookware. If you want to eliminate toxic materials from your cooking setup, this is a great place to start. Any one of these sets will deliver a high-quality cooking experience, so be sure to get the one that best suits your individual cooking needs and storage availability. We hope this guide has given you a head start as you search for the best GreenPan set for you and your family.