The “Stunning” Stainless Steel Saucepan I Use Every Single Day (It’s $100 Cheaper Than All-Clad!)
Quince is known for their high-quality (yet budget-friendly) clothes, and their equally-great home section is starting to get the recognition it deserves. I’ve tested bedding from the brand for our sister website, Apartment Therapy, so I was already on the Quince train before I heard about their recent foray into the cookware space. On their website, the brand draws comparisons between their professional-grade, stainless steel collection to pricier alternatives like All-Clad — which is no small claim to make.
After looking at the prices side-by-side, I was instantly intrigued. While our love for All-Clad can’t be overstated here at The Kitchn, it’s not necessarily the most affordable option on the market. In my case, I’m only just now starting to invest in cookware after graduating from college, and I’ve been hesitant to splurge right out of the gate. Maybe I’ll work my way up to All-Clad eventually, but with how well my Quince 5-ply cookware has been performing, I’m not sure I’ll need to. Their saucepan, in particular, has seen the most action in my kitchen — it’s perfect for one-pot meals, and heats up quickly and cleans up easily. Most importantly, though, it’s $140 cheaper than All-Clad’s version.
2-Quart Stainless Steel Saucepan
$89.90 (was $148.50) at Quince
What is Quince’s 5-Ply Stainless Steel Saucepan?
Aside from the price, Quince’s saucepan stands apart in a few ways, according to the brand. For one, it’s made in Italy, coming from a family-owned factory that’s been developing top-of-the-line cookware since 1925. Secondly, it’s produced using clean energy, as a part of Quince’s commitment to sustainability. Of course, it’s also similar to high-end options in that it offers 5-ply construction. The layers alternate between stainless steel and aluminum, which is more durable and holds heat more efficiently than 3-ply (which, admittedly, is a bit cheaper). The stainless steel build is non-toxic, compatible with all stovetops, and coated with a luxe satin finish. The design is no-frills and will hold up through tons of use. You can also choose between the two- or three-quart size.
Why I Love Quince’s 5-Ply Stainless Steel Saucepan
Pasta is one of my go-to meals throughout the week, so it makes sense that this saucepan has quickly become my most-used piece of cookware. In fact, I use it nearly every day. You might be thinking that its 2-quart capacity is too small, but its size has been absolutely perfect for me, since I’m usually cooking individual portions for myself. It also makes cleanup less time-consuming, and it takes up minimal space in my cabinet. However, after a couple of days, this piece started living permanently on my stovetop. I don’t mind, because in addition to how often I use it, it also looks totally gorgeous. If not for the Quince logo embossed underneath the handle, I would mistake it for All-Clad at first glance.
Prior to adding this saucepan to my collection, I was wary of D5 stainless steel because I’ve heard it’s decently hefty, but I’m pleased to report that carrying it from the stove to the sink is painless, helped along by its long handle. That brings me to yet another pro: The handle doesn’t get too hot, even though the pan itself heats up twice as quickly than my old one. Plus, though I have yet to make actual sauce in my saucepan, I have added the jarred stuff to my pasta while it’s been in the pan, and it stayed warm long enough for when I went back for seconds. So far, I’ve relied on this piece for mac and cheese and soup, too.
At this rate, considering how well it’s been going with Quince’s option, I don’t think I’ll need to upgrade any time soon. If you get anything from Quince’s cookware collection, this versatile saucepan should be it — but be sure to check out the rest of their offerings!
Buy: Quince 5-Ply Stainless Steel Saucepan, $89.90
