Made In Cookware Review: Do Celebrity Chefs’ Favorite Pots Live Up to the Hype?
We put the celebrity-approved Made In cookware to the test—find out if these pots and pans are worth the buzz and investment.
Made In Cookware: Hype, Heritage, & Hands-On Testing
As cookware brands go, Made In has rapidly risen to kitchen counter fame, thanks in large part to rave reviews from professional chefs and home cooks alike. Founded in 2017 by Chip Malt and Jake Kalick—Kalick hails from a family with deep roots in restaurant supply—Made In set out to craft high-performance kitchen gear that merges expert craftsmanship with modern design aesthetics. Their models are manufactured both in the USA and Europe, with input from renowned chefs such as Grant Achatz and Nancy Silverton to ensure each pot, pan, and accessory measures up to Michelin-star standards.
But do these gleaming pans truly outperform the competition for everyday chefs? We put Made In’s most popular products through the wringer to answer this very question.
Why Made In Cookware Caught Our Eye
- Celebrity chef endorsements from Grant Achatz and Nancy Silverton.
- Direct-to-consumer pricing that promises competitive affordability versus luxury cookware brands.
- High-quality materials and construction, including 5-ply clad cookware and real carbon steel.
- Handcrafted provenance from American and European factories.
Product Lineup: Overview & Price Comparison
Made In divides its range into several core collections. For this hands-on review, we tested pieces from the:
- Stainless Clad
- Non Stick
- Carbon Steel
While Made In’s aesthetic and professional performance match premium competitors, the pricing undercuts many legacy brands. Individual pieces tested topped out at $139, excluding the oversized stock pot at $229. Full sets start around $600 and supply enough gear for nearly any cooking challenge at home.
First Impressions: Style & Build Quality
Unboxing Made In cookware reveals a modern look—matte finishes, brushed exteriors, and robust build that hint at artisanal origins. Handles are notably elongated compared to standard-issue pots and pans, providing solid grip and precise control, especially when tilting or maneuvering over a busy stove. Rolled rims lend a premium touch, making pouring sauces cleaner and reducing drips.
Quick Stats Table: Made In Cookware Basics
| Collection | Material | Oven Safe Temp | Warranty | Made In |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless Clad | 5-ply Stainless & Aluminum | 800°F | Lifetime | Italy/USA |
| Non Stick | 5-ply Stainless w/ PTFE | 500°F | Lifetime | Italy/USA |
| Carbon Steel | French Carbon Steel | 1200°F+ | Lifetime | France |
Stainless Clad Collection: Performance & Features
Made In’s stainless clad series is the brand’s flagship—built with a five-layer bonded structure (aluminum alloy core, two pure aluminum layers, stainless steel interior, and a corrosion-resistant ferritic steel exterior). This configuration delivers fast and even heat distribution, allowing for seamless browning, searing, and frying without creating stubborn hot spots.
- Impressive temperature control: Maintains stable heat, ideal for boiling, frying, sautéing, and baking.
- Stay-cool handles: Hollow core design keeps handles cool when pans are sizzling—even after boiling water and high-temp searing.
- Rolled rims and tight-fitting lids: Make pouring and moisture retention effortless.
- Oven safe up to 800°F: Made In stainless can transition directly from stovetop to oven.
Throughout the tests, even amateur cooks experienced professional-grade results with reliable heat and no scorching.
Non Stick Collection: Slick Cooking, Cleaning, and Safety
Made In’s nonstick pans marry beauty with brawn. The signature surface—a deeply sparkled slickness—effortlessly releases food from eggs to sausages. Stainless handles complement the look and functionality, and according to most testers, the pans’ nonstick claims genuinely stand up in real use.
- PTFE coating: Ensures non-toxic performance, free from harmful PFOAs.
- Superior food release: Eggs, pancakes, and delicate proteins slide off easily—and cleaning usually takes just a wipe.
- Excellent heat retention: Thanks to the clad design, these pans retain and distribute heat better than many competing nonstick brands.
Potential downsides? The pans are somewhat heavier than typical nonstick pans, and for those with weak wrists or arthritis, this can be a challenge. Some testers found the handles a bit narrow for extended flipping or sautéing, and lighter users may notice fatigue sooner than with ultra-light pans.
Carbon Steel Collection: Restaurant-Quality Results at Home
For high-heat searing that rivals cast iron, Made In’s carbon steel line delivers powerful performance. Carbon steel heats up quickly, withstands temperatures north of 1200°F, and offers a natural nonstick patina when properly seasoned. Its lightweight build compared to cast iron makes maneuvering easier, though regular seasoning is required to maintain performance and prevent rust.
- Perfect for frying, searing, baking: Carbon steel pans excel at steak, eggs, and crispy veggies.
- Seasoning required: For optimal nonstick ability and rust resistance.
- French manufacturing: Crafted in the heart of Europe for authenticity.
Design Details: Handles, Surface & Everyday Use
Across Made In’s collections, several design elements set the brand apart from luxe competitors:
- Extra-long handles: Nearly an inch longer than many common pans, aiding careful maneuvering and spill prevention.
- Brushed exteriors: Offer a fingerprint- and smudge-resistant matte look, aligning with contemporary kitchen aesthetics.
- Helper handles and lid handles: Large enough for secure, full-handed grip—even when wearing thick oven mitts.
Whether tackling a family-sized stir fry or working on a delicate sauce, the ergonomic grips and balanced weight distribution reduce spillage and pad the confidence of both new and seasoned cooks.
Cleaning & Care: Is Nonstick Truly Nonstick?
For many home chefs, easy cleanup can make or break a cookware brand. Made In’s nonstick pans live up to expectations—grease and sauce residue washes away with minimal effort. Fried eggs, cheesy pasta remnants, and browned bits generally lift off with a gentle scrub. Stainless steel and carbon steel require a touch more elbow grease, especially when tackling stubborn caramelization or burnt-on food, but overall maintenance is straightforward for all three lines.
- Dishwasher safe: Most items in the stainless clad and nonstick collections.
- Tight-fitting lids: Prevent moisture loss and keep interiors cleaner during simmering.
- Egg and cheese cleanup: Nonstick fared best, while some scrubbing was needed on stainless and stock pot surfaces for pasta or fried rice leftovers.
Cleaning Table: How Easy Are These Pans to Care For?
| Collection | Ease of Cleanup |
|---|---|
| Non Stick | Outstanding—grease slides off, minimal scrubbing |
| Stainless Clad | Very Good—light scrubbing for heavy residue |
| Carbon Steel | Easy with regular seasoning and light cleaning |
Value Analysis: Are Made In’s Prices Justified?
Compared to top-tier brands such as All-Clad or Demeyere, Made In lands squarely in the professional bracket—but the prices remain relatively accessible. With standalone pieces available for $139 or less (except large-format stock pots) and full kits starting near $600, serious cooks can assemble a collection that rivals restaurant supply at a fraction of many competitors’ prices.
- Lifetime warranty: Adds extra peace of mind for investment value.
- Direct-to-consumer model: Reduces markup versus traditional luxury cookware stores.
- High durability: Withstand years of daily home or commercial kitchen use.
Comparison Table: Made In vs. High-End Rivals
| Brand | Maximum Piece Price | Set Price (Starting) | Oven Safe Temp | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Made In | $139-$229 | $600 | 800°F | Lifetime |
| All-Clad | $200+ | $675 | Up to 600°F | Lifetime |
| Demeyere | $180+ | $800 | Up to 500°F | 30 Years |
Pros and Cons: What Stands Out, What Falls Short
- Pros:
- Exceptional heat distribution and retention
- Stay-cool and comfortable handles
- Durable 5-ply construction
- Modern aesthetics—brushed finish and matte design
- Easy cleaning, especially for nonstick pieces
- Excellent value for professional-grade cookware
- Lifetime warranty
- Cons:
- Pans are heavier than many mass-market options
- Narrow handles on nonstick may feel awkward for some cooks
- Some pieces (e.g., stock pot) require additional scrubbing after sticky foods
- Full sets present a notable upfront investment
Who Should Buy Made In Cookware?
If you’re serious about cooking—or just want gear that can handle daily abuse and occasional culinary experimentation—Made In’s robust construction and thoughtful design make it ideal for passionate home chefs, beginner cooks looking for quality to grow into, and pros seeking a stylish addition to their restaurant or studio kitchen.
- Home cooks: Bulk sets deliver value and versatility without complexity.
- Professional chefs: Chefs appreciate the controlled heat and ergonomic handles.
- Gift givers: These pans look and feel luxurious, making them a smart present for weddings, housewarmings, or holidays.
FAQs: Your Top Made In Cookware Questions, Answered
Q: Does Made In cookware work for induction stoves?
A: Yes! All stainless clad and nonstick pieces are induction compatible, thanks to their layered metal design.
Q: Is Made In nonstick coating safe?
A: The PTFE coating is PFOA-free and non-toxic. However, avoid overheating PTFE pans above recommended temps to preserve performance.
Q: How heavy is Made In cookware?
A: The 5-ply construction delivers substantial weight for durability and heat retention. Nonstick pans are heavier than most competitors; stainless and carbon steel are moderate but robust.
Q: What is the warranty?
A: All cookware collections are covered by Made In’s lifetime warranty; terms vary by product.
Q: Can Made In pans go from stovetop to oven?
A: Absolutely! All pieces are oven safe to at least 500°F (nonstick) or 800°F (stainless clad).
Q: How do I clean carbon steel?
A: Wash with warm water and a sponge—no soap—and always dry thoroughly. Regular re-seasoning keeps pans nonstick and rust-free.
Final Thoughts: Does the Hype Match the Reality?
After putting Made In cookware through rigorous home and professional use, the value, performance, and style are clear standouts. These pieces rival—and sometimes surpass—heritage brands on heat control, looks, and ergonomic features. The extended handles, smart nonstick surface, and tight-fitting lids all pass real-world tests, while pricing remains competitive and sets pack all the essentials for a modern kitchen. If you’re upgrading your kitchen arsenal and want pro-level results, Made In’s celebrity buzz appears well-earned.
Quick Recap Table
| Feature | Made In Cookware |
|---|---|
| Best For | Home & professional chefs who want performance and style |
| Price Range | $139–$229 per piece; sets from $600 |
| Standout Features | 5-ply construction, long handles, nonstick, modern design |
| Easy to Clean | Yes (especially nonstick) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
