10 Must-Have Cookware Pieces for a Working Kitchen

You do not need a crowded cabinet to cook well. Start with a skillet, a saucepan, a stockpot, and a sheet pan???then add specialty pieces as your menus grow.

Cast iron and stainless each earn a place: cast iron for searing and oven finishes, stainless for sauces and deglazing. Nonstick helps with eggs and delicate fish when you want easy release.

Keep lids that fit, dry pans thoroughly, and match heat to the vessel. A small, reliable set used often beats unused gadgets on a high shelf.