We always stock up on frozen turkey and never throw away the bones; these birds are extremely affordable. With a good stockpot, vegetable and spice combinations, and a few hours of simmering, you can produce a stock that is better than any you can purchase at the store. When you need to make a large batch of Bolognese (with leftovers), a 12-quart pot is sufficient. However, it is not so large that it is impossible to store when not in use.
Using bouillon is not a problem when using a good stockpot to make any kind of soup. Its tall and narrow profile favors slower evaporation, making it ideal for long-simmering bone broths and steaming vegetables as well as dumplings without the need to add water constantly. This canning kit is ideal for canning, cooking for large groups, and many other tasks.
It is an essential part of any home cook’s arsenal. To help you make the best 12-qt stockpot in 2023 purchase decision, we chose those that are easy to handle, do not scorch, and are a good balance between size and function.
1. T-fal 12-Qt Nonstick Stockpot Cookware
Features
- Brand: T-fal
- Model: 2100092147
- Color: Black
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 4.6 pounds
- Dimension: 10 x 14 x 14 inches
- View at Walmart
T-fal is surely familiar to anyone who enjoys getting busy in the kitchen. There is a wide variety of appliances and accessories created by this company. Products in the T-Fal range are known for their exceptional quality, versatility, and ease of use.
With the T-fal B36262 Specialty Total Nonstick Dishwasher Safe Oven Safe Stockpot Cookware, the company offers a wide range of nonstick products. The non-stick surfaces of this model make it easy to hand wash. It can also be placed in the dishwasher for added convenience.
Keeping an eye on your food as it cooks will be a pleasure if you own this stockpot lid. A clear tempered glass lid fits over this stockpot. Several vent holes are set in the lid to prevent too much steam from accumulating.
There is a large textured knob in the center of the lid that helps keep the lid cool when in use. Stockpots have large handles on either side, which have an angled shape so that they are easy to grip. Black handles and lid knobs complement the sleek aluminum exterior of this stockpot.
In spite of this, the non-stick coating does not appear to be as durable as we would like it to be. As a result of prolonged use, it may begin to bubble and peel. There are some elements in which the limited lifetime warranty does not apply.
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2. Cook N Home 12-Qt Saucepot
Features
- Brand: Cook N Home
- Model: 02441
- Color: Silver
- Material: Tempered Glass, Stainless Steel
- Weight: 5.5 pounds
- Dimension: 14.37 x 14.37 x 10.23 inches
- View at Cooknhome
This stockpot will appeal to those who appreciate the traditional style. A sturdy design complements the polished sides of the Cook N Home 12 Stainless Steel Saucepot with Lid Quart Stockpot. Most heat sources are compatible with this stockpot and it is oven safe up to 350 degrees F.
With special-shaped handles set along the sides of this model, it really sets itself apart from the rest. These handles remain cool to the touch regardless of the ambient temperature. In addition to being securely riveted to the sides of the stockpot, they also provide enhanced stability.
An equally-sized handle is also located on the lid of the tempered glass container. To prevent moisture from escaping, the lid is tightly fitted onto the stockpot. There are also vents built into the lid which prevent liquids from overflowing.
The pot is available in several sizes. There are also three, five, eight, and twenty-quart versions available in addition to the 12-quart version. There is a variety of options to choose from, so it is adaptable to a wide range of different types of cooking.
Despite this, no clear warranty information about the model is available. That being said, you’re certain to be pleased with its high quality. It may not be a deal-breaker, but it should give you pause.
3. IMUSA USA 12 Qt Stock Pot
Features
- Brand: Imusa
- Model: L300-40315
- Color: Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Dimension: 10.2 x 12.99 x 8.66 inches
- View at Imusausa
This budget-friendly option that is Amazon’s top-selling stockpot could be a good option for you if you’re on the fence. With a price of less than $20, you can try it out before you buy it, and you’d probably use it more than you imagine. Stainless steel pots heat up rapidly and can be used for a variety of purposes, including searing, browning, and sautéing.
4. EXCELSTEEL Multi-Cookware Set
Features
- Brand: EXCELSTEEL
- Model: 529
- Color: Stainless
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
- Dimension: 13 x 10 x 11.5 inches
- View at eBay
Do you wish to find a stockpot that can be used in numerous ways? As soon as you choose your perfect model, you will be able to make a variety of dishes. ExcelSteel’s 18/10 Stainless Steel Multi-Cookware Set with Encapsulated Base is more than capable of matching your expectations.
You would expect the set to come with a durable stainless steel stockpot. As an extra accessory, a steamer basket with a handle and a pasta basket are included. With the set, you’ll get both baskets that fit snugly inside the stockpot along with a tempered glass lid.
There is a good fit between all the pieces of this set, making it easy to store. You can even fit this model in a compact kitchen if you have ample space. Hand-cleaning is easy with stainless steel because it has been polished to a high shine.
Large handles are provided on both the pasta basket and the stockpot for ease of use. The stock pot’s base is encapsulated for extra stability. Combined with the inserts, this helps to ensure heat is distributed uniformly throughout the unit.
However, this model does not work with induction cooktops. Additionally, it is best to avoid burning the item in the oven. Because of this, the device is ideal for use on both stovetops and campfires alike.
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5. Farberware Classic 12-Qt Stock Pot
Features
- Brand: Farberware
- Model: 50008
- Color: Silver
- Material: Steel
- Weight: 4.7 pounds
- Dimension: 4.75 x 9.75 x 10.75 inches
- View at Farberwarecookware
This stockpot features a polished mirror-like finish that is sure to make any modern kitchen stand out. A full cap is located on the bottom of the Farberware 50008 Classic Stainless Steel Stock Pot. The aluminum core of the bottom of the pot is sandwiched between two stainless steel layers.
This helps in ensuring that the base of the pot is particularly durable. Your stockpot will certainly heat up the food consistently and quickly. Having a reinforced bottom lets you simmer soup and other liquids without burning them.
Large loop handles are attached to the stockpot’s sides and its lid. Even when it is full of food, you will be able to quickly and easily remove the stockpot from the stove. While the handles are designed to keep cool, they can also be worn with oven mitts if wanted.
This model features stainless steel construction for added durability. When properly cared for, you will discover this is the last stock pot you will ever need. It comes with a comprehensive lifetime warranty for complete peace of mind.
There is a drawback to this stockpot: its sides are quite thin in comparison with some models. It may burn contents relatively easily if the sides are thin. To start cooking at a low temperature and turn up the temperature gradually, it is best to do so.
6. Update International 12 Qt Stock Pot
Features
- Brand: Update International
- Model: SPS-12
- Color: Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Weight: 7.5 pounds
- Dimension: 7.3 x 11.5 x 7.3 inches
Update International’s Induction Ready Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Aluminum Core is the perfect stainless steel pot for those who have an induction range. As opposed to electric heating elements or gas flames, induction ranges use magnets to transfer heat.
For this reason, you must use a pot with a flat bottom and magnetic base to cook on these environmentally-friendly surfaces. This magnetic 18/8 stainless steel stock pot from Update International is designed to be used on induction cookers.
An aluminum disk of 5mm is included in the base of the pot, which helps heat it evenly. A total of nine different sizes are available, ranging from 8 to 100 quarts. The handles on the smaller pots have been spot-welded, whereas the handles on the larger ones feature rivets that stay secure even when the pot is overflowing.
7. Cuisinart Hard Anodized 12-Qt Stockpot
Features
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Model: 6466-26
- Color: Stockpot w/ Cover
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 7.19 pounds
- Dimension: 14.41 x 10.75 x 10.35 inches
With its stylish design, this stockpot is sure to please those with a love of art. With its curved side towards the base, the Cuisinart Contour Hard Anodized 12-Quart Stockpot with Cover offers a unique appearance. The model has a design that is similar to that of a cauldron and is truly unique in appearance.
The oven-safe feature of this model is that it can be used up to 500°F. Aluminum forms the body, but a hard-anodized core makes up the base. This method ensures that the contents of the stockpot are heated evenly and quickly so that the result is perfect.
In addition to acting as a nonporous surface, anodizing also acts as a durable coating. The stockpot is made of stainless steel so it is easy to clean by hand. Non-stick surfaces are also resistant to scratches and other types of marring.
Its tempered glass lid has been designed to fit tightly on the pot’s body. Stainless steel handles are mounted on either side of the glass lid. This handle has been doubly riveted for enhanced strength.
A slight angle is created between the large handles on either side of the stockpot to make it easy to grasp. There is only one drawback, and that is that the handles can get hot, especially if you stick them in the oven. It’s fortunate that the handles are large enough for oven mitts to fit over them while you hold them.
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8. Le Creuset Enamel-on-Steel Covered Stockpot
Features
- Brand: Le Creuset
- Model: N4100-2417
- Color: Caribbean
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Weight: 6.4 pounds
- Dimension: 11.2 x 11.1 x 10.5 inches
With several color options to choose from, you can find the stockpot that best meets your mood and kitchen. In addition to having evenly distributed heat, it has an 8-quart capacity, is easy to clean, and it’s pretty. To create a soup that is tantalizing and also features lovely, interesting textures, I can do it! A double coat of enamel protects this pot from absorbing flavors and odors from your creations, as it is made from heavy gauge carbon steel.
Especially since it can also be used in the oven and withstands temperatures up to 450 degrees, this stockpot is a favorite kitchen accessory. You can also expect quick boiling times. An induction range heats the water quickly to a rolling boil. Stockpots with a tight-fitting lid to reduce evaporation and easy-grip handles to move and lift heavy pots are essential.
9. All-Clad 12 Qt Stockpot Cookware
Features
- Brand: All-Clad
- Model: 8400001352
- Color: Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Weight: 14.3 pounds
- Dimension: 14.8 x 13.8 x 11.4 inches
Both the 12-quart and 16-quart All-Clad Stainless Steel Dishwasher Safe Stockpots are available in two sizes. The smaller 12-quart version, contrary to expectations, costs nearly twice as much as the larger 16-quart version.
Because of the three layers of high-performance metal that extend from the base to the rim of the 12-quart model, the price difference is so high. These include 18/10 stainless steel, aluminum, and yet another layer of stainless steel. Meanwhile, the 16-quart model only has an aluminum disk in the base.
It is made in the United States for the 12-quart version, but in China for the 16-quart version. All-Clad stockpots are the better choice because the three layers of metal provide even heat distribution, so you do not have to turn your food constantly or babysit it as it simmers. Both styles are popular with experts and buyers, though.
The wide design of this sink allows it to be easily cleaned in an average kitchen sink. Pots and pans made out of All-Clad provide a long service life as well. You can expect your pot to last a lifetime if you take good care of it, clean it thoroughly after each use, and remove any stuck-on grease.
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10. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic 12-Qt Stockpot
Features
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Model: EOS126-28R
- Color: Red
- Material: Steel
- Weight: 6.48 pounds
- Dimension: 13.8 x 9.6 x 11.4 inches
The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enamel on Steel Stockpot with Cover has a bright and dramatic design that really stands out. The 304 stainless steel construction has an enamel coating that is bright red in color. This stockpot also has a coating that prevents odors and staining, in addition to looking great. Thus, you can rest assured that it will look new for a long time to come.
The large handle on this model makes it easy to lift and stays cool to the touch. An attached lid has a large knob in the center and matches the stockpot. As your food cooks, the lid seals moisture and nutrients into the pot. With the large knob, one can easily lift the lid, even when wearing oven mitts.
The heat inside the stockpot is distributed evenly and maintains a consistent temperature. This product comes complete with a stainless steel sieve for easy cooking of pasta and steaming of vegetables. This intelligent stockpot comes with a lifetime warranty as an added bonus.
If you want to keep the stock pot’s enamel finish beautiful, do not put it in the dishwasher. The hands-on operation of this model will ensure you will find it very quick and easy to clean. White enamel is used in the interior to prevent food from sticking to it.
Buying Guide: Best 12-Qt Stock Pot
You need to think again if you thought that all 12-qt stockpots are the same. A model can vary greatly in terms of quality and function, even if it is top of the line. The following factors should be kept in mind when choosing the stockpot.
Materials
It is important to decide on the material from which you will make your new stockpot first. The most high-end stock pots can be made from a variety of materials these days. Stainless steel and anodized aluminum, two of the most popular materials, remain popular options.
Lid
You should also pay close attention to the stock pot’s lid. An ideal stick pot lid should be tightly fitted to the pot’s body and have a large knob or handle. It would be best if the lid had steam vents to prevent excessive pressure from building up.
Handles
Stick pots tend to be heavy and unwieldy, especially when they are loaded with food. Hence, it is important to set the sides with handles that are large and easily graspable. A handle should have some texture and remain cool to the touch at all times.
Durability
Lastly, make sure the stockpot you plan to purchase is crafted from durable materials. The top-of-the-line models usually come with a lifetime warranty these days. By doing this, you can rest assured that your brand-new model will perform optimally without warping or other issues.
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Frequently Asked Questions
There are three basic types of pots, each distinguished by their size, shape, and function. Stockpots usually have steep sides, two handles, and a lid. Pans have shorter sides than stockpots, are typically one-handled, and are used for daily cooking, such as preparing rice, quinoa, beans, and smaller sauces and soups. Soup pots are similar to stockpots, but have a heavier base and may be wider than stockpots.
However, putting certain brands in the oven can cause them to warp. Bogedin advises investing in oven-safe stock pots if the parts on the pot can melt since that indicates that the pot is not oven-safe. Alternatively, a stockpot made entirely of chrome aluminum can be used in an oven with no problems. In order to avoid burns, she suggests wearing heat-resistant gloves whenever cooking at home.
