The Only 5 Pots and Pans You Really Need

1. Dutch oven

• Target, $90

For braises, soups, or boiling veggies and pasta. You can easily spend a bundle on fancy models, but Lodge’s 6-quart color enamel Dutch oven does the job just fine.

2. Saucepan

• Macy’s, $50

Go small or medium with this one, depending on your needs. This is for when a Dutch oven is too big for the job. Cuisinart’s 3-quart saucepan is heavy-bottomed enough to heat evenly and prevent scorching during long simmers. 

3. Cast-iron skillet

• Amazon, $37

An amazingly versatile, ovenproof pan that cooks everything from pancakes to hard-seared steaks. When fully seasoned, it’s virtually nonstick. Go for a 12-inch pan; Lodge is the gold standard. 

4. Half-sheet baking pan 

• Crate and Barrel, $15

Use it to bake cookies or as a roasting pan for veggies or big hunks of meat. NordicWare’s natural aluminum commercial baker’s half sheet is sturdy and distributes heat evently. 

5. Nonstick skillet 

• Bed Bath and Beyond, $25

Essential for eggs and fish. T-Fal’s 10-inch fry pan keeps its coating intact for longer than many nonstick skillets.