HexClad Cookware Test: I found out if Gordon Ramsay’s favorite pans are suitable for home cooks.
What is HexClad Cookware?
You may have already noticed the HexClad cookware range while browsing social media – everyone from Gordon Ramsay to Michelin-starred chefs and award-winning cooks swears by it.
As one of the leading cookware manufacturers, the company offers everything from pan sets and woks to knives, cutting boards, and other kitchen utensils. But its unique hybrid technology has caught customers’ attention. Combining the advantages of stainless steel, ceramic, and aluminum, this pan material is unique. But do they really deliver on their promises? I tested the 7-piece hybrid cookware set to find out.
HexClad offers everything from practical 2-piece sets to a comprehensive 20-piece complete set. This set includes three pans with lids and a large wok. They allow you to prepare a wide variety of dishes. The pans are non-stick, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe up to 260°C (or 204°C with lid).
While they are undoubtedly among the most expensive pans on the market, they could well be worth the investment if you’re looking to improve your cooking skills or, thanks to the lifetime guarantee, are looking for a pan set that saves you from having to buy individual sets.
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How we test pan sets
I’ve been testing several pan sets over the past few months. First, I assessed the variety of different types, sizes, and cooking surface of each set. I considered how heavy the pans were and whether this would affect their effective use, as well as the types of stovetops and oven temperatures they could be used on.
Next, I examined the materials of the pans and lids. This included the quality of the cooking surface and ease of cleaning.
As part of my testing, I prepared a variety of dishes—from simple fried eggs to stir-fries, sizzling chicken, steak, and chili—to see how the pans performed at different temperatures, sautéing, grilling, frying, and roasting.
This set includes a nice selection of pans ranging from 20 cm to 30 cm—which also stack neatly inside each other when stored—as well as matching glass lids and a 30 cm wok. Many other brands and manufacturers of pan sets list the number of pans, cast iron pans, and saucepans per set as a total—not including lids and accessories. For example, my cheapest pan set, the Salter Megastone Pan Set, is classified as an eight-piece set, which equates to eight saucepans and saucepans, with the lids included separately. So, the Salter set comes in a total of twelve pieces when all items are taken into account.
HexClad does the opposite and classifies the three lids as part of the seven-piece set. This means you only get four pans, not seven, as you might expect based on the name. This could be a bit disappointing or even misleading if you’re in a hurry.
Given the price of the set, it would also have been nice to have at least one saucepan included, as it would give you virtually all the pots and pans you need. You can purchase these separately or as part of an additional set. Of course, this comes at an additional cost, but I was certainly pleased that the 7-piece hybrid cookware set included a wok—something you don’t often see included.
Not all pan sets are suitable for induction cooktops. Fortunately, those from HexClad work on induction cooktops as well as gas and electric stovetops. Each pan and its accompanying glass lids are also oven-safe—up to 204°C for the lids and up to 260°C for the pans. So you can easily transfer them from the stovetop to the oven without any problems at higher temperatures. I tested the pans for about ten minutes at a maximum of 260°C and noticed no difference compared to the lower temperatures (usually around or below 200°C) at which I normally cook. I also didn’t experience any charring or staining on the cooking material or the underside.
I was also able to cook at a lower temperature on the stovetop compared to other pan sets. Using medium heat with a HexClad pan, I got similar results to using medium to high heat with other brands or pans.
The quality of the pans is underscored by their considerable weight. And they were actually among the heaviest I tested when determining the best pan sets. The wok alone, for example, weighs just over two kilograms. Once you start adding ingredients, the weight quickly adds up, especially if you struggle with carrying heavier items or have limited mobility. Depending on your strength and ability, you may be able to use both hands when carrying a full wok or when moving a pan in and out of the oven, as I did.
But on the stovetop and with fewer ingredients, I found the pans more manageable and could easily lift them with one hand, especially the 20 cm pan, which I now regularly use for frying eggs. So, you should weigh the weight and decide if you’re comfortable lifting, shaking, or cooking with heavier pans.
Whether by hand or in the dishwasher, the HexClad pans were incredibly easy to clean, as the non-stick material prevented anything from sticking or burning—even when I intentionally left certain ingredients on the stovetop for longer. Personally, I preferred to wash the pans by hand, as warm soapy water easily removed all residue. For more stubborn stains, you can also soak the pans in water for about 10 to 15 minutes and then use a scouring pad to loosen and remove any residue. And if you’re cooking multiple dishes or portions in a row or spread out over an evening, I was pleased that a quick wipe with a paper towel or clean cloth removed all residue in seconds.
Although the pans are dishwasher safe, the manufacturer recommends “handwashing them with a sponge and hot soapy water to maintain their longevity.” Because “using the dishwasher can cause pots and pans to appear dull or black over time. Additionally, phosphate-free cleaners can etch or damage the metal surface.”
In terms of durability, the HexClad cookware series differs from similar pan sets on the market in that it allows for the use of metal utensils. It’s usually recommended to avoid using any type of metal on conventional non-stick pans, as this can scratch or damage the coating and risk these particles getting into your food. However, HexClad’s patented hybrid surface is designed to withstand daily cooking with forks, spatulas, and tongs—even metal ones. However, avoid particularly sharp utensils, as these can cause cosmetic damage.
The pans require a little care to maintain their appearance and performance: seasoning. You may already be familiar with the burning of your food and favorite dishes, but seasoning involves heating your pans for a few minutes with a little vegetable, avocado, or olive oil. You only need to season your HexClad pans before first use or after a thorough cleaning, as the pans re-season themselves as you cook.
And if you’re still unsure about making such an investment, HexClad offers a lifetime warranty and a 30-day return policy. This way, you won’t have to buy more pans any time soon.
FAQs
Does Gordon Ramsay really use HexClad?
Not only is HexClad his favorite pan at home and used in his restaurants, but his partnership with HexClad is also based on a genuine appreciation for the product, says Danny Winer, founder and CEO of HexClad. And if you happen to watch Hell’s Kitchen—I’m an avid viewer—you’ll also see the chefs on the red and blue teams wearing HexClad cookware on the reality cooking show.
How long do HexClad pans last?
Because HexClad pans are designed as a long-term investment, we offer a lifetime warranty and materials that withstand wear and tear better than traditional non-stick cookware. However, if something goes wrong due to manufacturing defects, you’re protected by this lifetime warranty, explains Danny.
Can HexClad pans scratch?
Because they’re designed for metal utensils, they won’t scratch with normal use. Unless you apply excessive force or use something very abrasive, scratches shouldn’t be a problem.
Are HexClad pans non-toxic?
“Yes, HexClad pans are non-toxic,” reveals Danny. “Our hybrid technology consists of a combination of laser-engraved stainless steel and our proprietary TerraBond ceramic non-stick coating, which is free of PFOA, PTFE, PDFAS, lead, and cadmium.” Even at very high heat during cooking, the pans won’t degrade or release toxins.
Where are HexClad products made?
The entire HexClad line is designed in Los Angeles, California, and manufactured in China.