Overview
PROS
CONS
SPECS
Capacity
Material
Surfaces
Convenience
Sizes
Our Top Choice
Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Stock Pot
This 8-quart lidded stainless-steel stock pot from Calphalon features a heavy-gauge bottom and aluminum core for even heating.
Even and consistent heating with 3-layer design. Clear tempered-glass lid gives you a view of what you’re cooking. Dishwasher safe.
You may experience some sticking depending on what you cook and how you’re cooking it.
8 Quarts
Stainless Steel w/ Aluminum Core
All Cooking Surfaces
Oven & Broiler Safe
8-quart Only
Best Value
T-fal Nonstick Stock Pot
T-fal makes this nice, large and deep stockpot with a scratch-resistant nonstick coating. It’s very affordable, especially given the heavyweight aluminum construction.
12-quart capacity is enough to cook meals for the whole family. 8-quart capacity also available. Heats up quickly and evenly.
Placement of the handles makes pouring awkward. Tall, so may not be easy to store.
12 Quarts
Aluminum with Nonstick Coating
Safe for All Except Induction
Dishwasher and Oven Safe
8-quart, 12-quart
Bayou Classic Stainless Steel Pot & Lid
This stainless-steel stockpot from Bayou Classic is made of high quality stainless steel. The 162-quart size is perfect for outdoor cooking and for feeding large groups.
Available in multiple sizes, from 24 to 162 quarts. Great for cooking lobster, crabs, clams, etc. Good for home brewing. Heavy-duty construction.
A small number of users report leaking near the bottom or around the rivets (you may be able to get a replacement if you experience this issue).
162 Quarts
Stainless Steel
Safe for Most, Depending on Size
Hand Wash Recommended
9 Sizes Available – 24-162 qt.
Farberware Classic Series 16-Qt Stockpot
This 16-quart stockpot from Farberware is made with heavy-duty stainless steel and an aluminum core. It’s a good looking and practical choice for cooking soups, stocks, and more.
Self-basting lid seals in heat and moisture. Oven safe to 350 degrees. Dishwasher safe for easy care. Stainless-steel base with thick aluminum core helps with fast and even heating.
A minority of users report stains and pitting – read up on how to care for stainless cookware.
16 Quarts
Stainless Steel
All Cooking Surfaces
Dishwasher and Oven Safe
6, 8, 12, and 16 qt.
Columbian Home Granite Ware Stockpot
This Columbian Home Granite Ware Stock Pot is unique for its glass-like surface with a steel core. The 34-quart capacity is plenty for most uses.
34-quart stockpot offers plenty of room to cook most meals, and there’s also a 21-quart version. Glass-like porcelain enamel surface does not interact with food.
Height may make storage difficult. Not recommended for glass cooktops.
34 Quarts
Porcelain Enamel with Steel Core
Not for Glass Cooktops
Dishwasher and Oven Safe
21-quart, 34-quart