Rachael Ray Cucina Hard Porcelain Enamel Nonstick Cookware Set, 12-Piece, Cranberry Red

A smokey, burnt dinner mishap with hand-me-down cookware from my parents was the last straw before deciding to purchase a new set of pots and pans.  After seeing this attractive, but simple set of Rachel Ray cookware at Target, I read numerous reviews online.  There were mixed reviews.  Seemingly, a previous version of the set was susceptible to enamel fading after cleaning in a dishwasher.  However, I found a deal on the set on Overstock.com and purchased the set knowing this could be a problem.

I purchased the cranberry colored set which, as the name suggests, is cranberry not red.  (This is important only if you are particularly partial to a vibrant, fire-truck red as the enamel will not meet that expectation).  Upon purchase, I noted a label on the box indicating that the pots and pans were not to be washed in the dishwasher- a good rule of thumb for all Teflon coated cookware.  After using the pots and pans regularly on my ceramic stovetop for more than four months, I am happy to report they were a great purchase!  No fading, no smoke, and no burnt dinners!

Highlights of this cookware set are the sturdy construction, shatter-proof lids (self-tested), and heat-resistant silicone handles.  The spatula and slotted spoon included are functional, but nothing overtly special.  The only hesitation I have in recommending this set is that the frying pans included are 8-inches and 10-inches.  While both are great quality, a larger [than 10-inch] frying pan would be better as the two included are very comparable in size and aren’t quite big enough for cooking some dishes.  I also have had a slight issue with soap residue remaining on the Teflon after washing.  I’ll chalk this up to my washing skills and not the product though, and a quick wipe of paper towel before use typically clears any remnant water marks.  These minor shortcomings aside, I highly suggest purchasing this cookware set.