The Complete Guide to Buying and Using AMC Cookware in 2023

Are you looking to buy new cookware for your home or restaurant kitchen? If so, you may be wondering: how do I choose the right AMC pots and pans?

American Metalcraft (AMC) is a leading manufacturer of commercial-grade cookware since 1973. Their durable and budget-friendly pots and pans are popular staples in many restaurants and homes.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know before investing in AMC cookware. We’ll cover how to select the best AMC cookware sets, materials, features to look for, cleaning and maintenance tips, storage solutions, and our top product recommendations.

Follow these tips to make the perfect AMC cookware purchase in 2023.

What is AMC Cookwear Known For?

AMC first made a name for itself by providing restaurants with affordable, heavy-duty cookware that could withstand the rigors of a busy commercial kitchen.

Today, home cooks appreciate AMC for many of the same rugged qualities that made it a back-of-house staple, as well as the reasonable prices of AMC cookware compared to premium brands like All-Clad.

AMC pots and pans are versatile workhorses that perform well for cooking many different foods. The most popular materials include stainless steel, aluminum, ceramic non-stick, and cast iron.

Sturdy pan handles and lids, oven-safe construction up to 500°F, and dishwasher-safe durability (except for cast iron) add to the functionality of AMC cookware.

Of course, there are downsides to its inexpensive construction as well. AMC pots and pans are prone to dents, scratches, and warping with improper use compared to higher end brands.

But if you treat AMC cookware properly and care for it, it can last many years as a kitchen essential.

Pros and Cons of AMC Cookware

Before deciding if AMC is right for your cooking needs, weigh the key pros and cons of these affordable pots and pans:

Pros

• Durable materials withstand high heat
• Much more affordable than premium brands
• Wide range of pan and pot sizes available
• Can be used in the oven up to 500°F
• Most sets are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Cons

• Prone to dents and scratches
• Non-stick coatings may deteriorate
• Handles can get hot when pan is very hot
• Heavier than other cookware brands
• Not the highest quality construction

The biggest advantage of AMC pots and pans is the price and performance combination. For budget-friendly cookware, you would be hard-pressed to find more durable options than AMC.

Just don’t expect AMC to have the fit, finish, and delicacy of a high-end brand. With proper care, AMC cookware provides reliable versatility day after day.

Types of AMC Cookware By Material

AMC manufactures pots, pans, and cookware sets from a range of materials to fit different cooking needs. Let’s look at the benefits of each type:

1. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is the most popular and recommended AMC cookware material. It provides excellent durability, corrosion resistance, and easy maintenance.

The aluminum or copper core in higher end stainless AMC sets offers better heat conduction and control than the aluminum discs in cheaper models. AMC Select stainless steel is a good mid-range option.

Stainless AMC cookware has an oven safe stainless steel handle. The major downside is stainless can discolor over time. Proper cleaning and avoiding overheating maintains the finish.

2. Aluminum

AMC uses heavy-gauge aluminum in some of its cookware for maximum heat conductivity at a light weight. However, aluminum is soft and prone to dents, warping, and reactions with acidic foods.

Most AMC aluminum cookware has stainless steel handles and reinforced non-stick coating for better durability. We only recommend aluminum AMC pans for careful cooks on a strict budget.

3. Ceramic Non-Stick

For easy food release, AMC’s ceramic non-stick pots and pans provide a PFOA-free alternative to traditional Teflon. The scratch-resistant coating makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.

However, AMC’s ceramic coating may deteriorate faster than higher quality brands. Take care not to use metal utensils or abrasive scouring pads which can damage the surface.

4. Cast Iron

Cast iron AMC cookware retains heat beautifully and becomes naturally non-stick over time. The enamel coated cast iron Dutch ovens provide great heat retention without the seasoning process.

Keep in mind cast iron is very heavy. Unless you’re committed to proper cast iron care, opt for the more forgiving stainless or non-stick AMC cookware.

What to Consider When Buying AMC Cookware?

Here are the key factors to evaluate when choosing new AMC pots and pans:

• Cookware material – Stainless steel offers the best balance of durability, ease of use, and performance for most home cooks. Ceramic non-stick makes cooking and cleaning easier but requires gentler care.
• Handle comfort and heat resistance – AMC pan handles should be sturdy, firmly riveted, and stay cool during stovetop cooking. Avoid sets where the handles get hot.
• Pan size vs burner size – Match the pan base diameter to your stove’s burner or heating element size for maximum contact. Too small and the pan won’t heat evenly. Too large and heat is wasted.
• Lid fit – AMC lids should fit snugly to lock in heat, moisture, and nutrients. Glass lids make it easy to monitor food while cooking.
• Oven safety – Verify the AMC cookware set and handles are oven safe to the temperature you plan to use. AMC lids are generally oven safe up to 350°F.
• Budget – AMC sets range from around $100 to $400. Make sure to get the functionality you need at the price you want. Quality goes up with cost.

Consider what and how often you cook to select the right AMC pots and pans set to match your cooking style.

5 Recommended AMC Cookware Sets

Not sure where to start your AMC cookware search? Here are 5 of the best selling and highest rated AMC sets to consider in 2023:

1. AMC Select Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set

This set provides a great introduction to AMC’s stainless steel cookware line. You get a covered saucepan, stockpot, two frying pans, and lids to equip most kitchens.

The encapsulated aluminum base ensures even heating without hot spots. Durable stainless steel exterior resists scratches. At around $140, it’s a quality cookware investment.

2. AMC Premier Non-Stick Ceramic 12-Piece Cookware Set

For effortless cooking and cleaning, AMC’s ceramic 12-piece set is a favorite. The PFOA-free ceramic coating prevents sticking and is metal utensil safe.

Vented tempered glass lids, ergonomic handles, and dishwasher safe construction add convenience. Around $250 provides great non-stick performance.

3. AMC Copper Core Stainless Steel 5-Piece Cookware Set

This small but powerful AMC cookware set is perfect for serious home chefs. The copper core between two stainless steel layers conducts heat rapidly for control and precision cooking.

The 5-ply construction ensures durability and oven safety up to 600°F. The $400 price reflects the top quality results this set delivers.

4. AMC Essential Anodized Aluminum 11-Piece Cookware Set

For cooks on a tight budget, this $120 aluminum set shouldn’t be overlooked. The hard anodized aluminum construction evenly distributes heat to prevent hot spots.

The vented glass lids and silicone handles offer a nicer experience than cheaper aluminum sets. Just take care not to dent the soft material.

5. AMC Classic Cast Iron 5-Piece Cookware Set

AMC’s $150 cast iron set includes 10″ and 12″ skillets, a 5-quart Dutch oven, 10″ lid, and handled griddle. The pre-seasoned cookware grows more non-stick with use.

True cast iron aficionados may prefer more expensive heirloom brands. But AMC cast iron offers quality at an affordable price.

With AMC’s diverse cookware collections, you’re sure to find the right set to fit your cooking needs and budget.

How to Clean and Care for AMC Cookware?

Caring for AMC pots and pans properly helps them last for years. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining your cookware:

• Hand wash – Gently clean AMC cookware by hand with a non-abrasive sponge or dish cloth. Avoid harsh scouring pads.
• Metal utensil safe – Using metal utensils won’t damage AMC stainless steel cookware. But be gentle on ceramic non-stick surfaces.
• Remove stains – For stainless steel, boil water with lemon juice or a non-abrasive cleaner to remove stains. Re-season cast iron as needed.
• Dry thoroughly – Always hand dry AMC pots and pans fully after washing. Let air dry completely before putting away to prevent moisture damage.
• Polish regularly – Shine stainless steel AMC cookware by applying a thin stainless steel polish paste with a soft cloth.
• No bleaches or oven cleaners – Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or commercial oven cleaners on AMC cookware.

With regular gentle cleaning and polishing, AMC pots and pans will maintain their original durable finish.

Proper Storage for AMC Cookware

Storing your AMC cookware properly between uses ensures it stays in top shape:

• Separate lids – Never stack lids directly on top of pans. The rim contact will eventually scratch the cookware surfaces.
• Use protectors – Place a folded kitchen towel or silicone protector between stacked AMC pots and pans to prevent scratches.
• Hang cookware – Install a wall-mounted pot rack or pan hooks to keep cookware visible and free of damage.
• Cool before storing – Always allow AMC cookware to fully cool before putting away in cabinets to prevent warping or melting.
• Avoid wet storage – Ensure AMC pots and pans are 100% dry before cabinet storage. Moisture breeds rust.

With some care taken during storage, your AMC cookware will avoid dings, dents, and corrosion so it’s always ready to use.

Get the Most Out of AMC Cookware

AMC has earned its reputation for durable, affordable cookware after 50 years. With the buying advice in this guide, you can be confident finding the right AMC pots and pans set for your cooking needs.

Focus on AMC stainless steel and ceramic non-stick cookware sets for the best experience cooking on a budget. Carefully hand wash and dry your cookware after each use. Avoid scratches by storing lids separately and using protectors.

With just a bit of maintenance, AMC cookware will provide reliable everyday performance for years to come. Enjoy the experience of cooking with pots and pans designed for commercial durability at consumer-friendly prices.