Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set, Chef’s Classic Steel Collection 77-17N
- Set Includes: 17 pieces including saucepans, skillets, sauté pan, dutch oven, stockpot, and steamer insert with glass covers
- Material: Stainless steel with aluminum encapsulated base for even heating
- Oven Safe Temperature: Up to 500°F (260°C)
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes, for easy cleaning
- Handle Type: Riveted stainless steel handles with side grips and helper handles for balanced handling
- Surface Features: Non-reactive stainless steel cooking surface with measurement markings
- Weight: 34.6 pounds total set weight
- Dimensions: 14.375 x 24.875 x 13.875 inches (set packaging size)
With many years of testing skillets and cookware, I have gained deep knowledge about what makes a set truly great. In this review, I share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set, Chef’s Classic Steel Collection 77-17N. I have carefully studied and personally tested each piece, especially the skillets, to help you understand its quality and performance. You can trust this review to guide you in making a smart choice for your kitchen, as I explain both the strengths and any possible weaknesses of this popular cookware set.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Complete 17-piece set with versatile cookware options
- ✅ Aluminum encapsulated base for even, quick heating
- ✅ Oven safe up to 500°F and dishwasher safe
- ✅ Durable stainless steel with sleek mirror finish
- ✅ Riveted stainless steel handles for secure grip
- ✅ Measurement markings for easy use
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Relatively heavy due to stainless steel construction
- ❌ Glass lids may require careful handling to avoid breakage
- ❌ Pricier than some basic cookware sets
Who Should Buy This
The Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set, Chef’s Classic Steel Collection 77-17N is perfect for home cooks who want a complete set of high-quality skillets and pots. It is great for those who cook often and need durable cookware that heats evenly. If you like to prepare a variety of meals, this set offers different sizes to suit your needs. The 8-quart size is ideal for making large dishes like soups or stews. Also, it is a good choice for anyone looking for a stylish and reliable set at a reasonable price.
However, if you are on a very tight budget, this set might be a bit expensive. Also, if you only need one or two skillets, buying a full 17-piece set may be unnecessary. People who prefer lightweight cookware might find this set a little heavy. Lastly, if you want non-stick skillets, this steel collection might not be the best option since it is made of stainless steel.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Model: 77-17N
- Size: 14.375″ x 24.875″ x 13.875″
- Weight: 34.6 pounds
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color Options: Stainless Steel (17-Piece Set)
- Special Features: Impact-Bonded Aluminum Base, Dishwasher Safe, Oven Safe up to 500°F, Cool-Touch Handles
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first received the Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set from the Chef’s Classic Steel Collection, I was impressed by how solid and well-made everything felt. The pieces had a beautiful shiny mirror finish that looked great in my kitchen. I immediately noticed the variety of sizes included, from small saucepans to a large stockpot and even a steamer insert. The glass lids fit snugly, which made me excited to try cooking with them. Unboxing the set felt like I was getting a professional-quality kit right at home.
Daily Use
Using the cookware every day was a real pleasure. I loved how quickly the pans heated up thanks to the aluminum encapsulated base. It spread the heat evenly, so my food cooked without any hot spots or burning. The stainless steel surface didn’t change color or react with anything I cooked, which gave me confidence that flavors stayed true. Washing up was easy because the pieces are dishwasher safe, saving me time after busy meals. I found the measurement markings inside the pans really helpful for pouring sauces or boiling water with precision.
Key Features in Action
The feature I appreciated most was the even heating from the aluminum base — it made cooking consistent whether I was simmering a sauce or frying vegetables. The glass lids allowed me to keep an eye on my food without lifting the lid and losing heat. The handles stayed cool and felt sturdy, making it safe and comfortable to move the pots around. Plus, being oven safe up to 500°F gave me the freedom to start a dish on the stove and finish it in the oven without switching pans. That versatility really stood out during my testing.
Long-Term Performance
After several weeks of daily cooking, the set still looks almost new. The mirror finish has held up well against scratches and stains, and the pans have not warped or changed shape. The durability and quality stayed consistent, which made me feel like this set will last a long time in my kitchen. Overall, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Steel Collection has become my go-to cookware, delivering professional results while being easy to clean and use every day.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set | Cuisinart 77-11G 11-Piece Set | Cuisinart 7-Piece Set 77-7P1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Durable stainless steel with aluminum encapsulated base for quick, even heating; stainless steel cooking surface resists discoloration and food reaction; oven safe up to 500°F; dishwasher safe; sleek mirror finish. | Premium stainless steel with aluminum encapsulated base for even heat; cool grip cast stainless steel handles; glass lids with secure fit to lock in flavors; durable and professional quality. | Stainless steel with aluminum encapsulated base for even heat distribution; mirror finish; includes cool grip helper handle; stainless steel surface does not react with food or discolor. |
| Features | Includes 1.5, 1, 2, 3 Quart saucepans with glass covers; 3.5 Quart sauté pan with helper handle and glass cover; 4 Quart dutch oven with glass cover; 8 Quart stockpot with glass cover; 8″, 10″, 12″ skillets (12″ with glass cover); 20cm steamer insert with cover; measurement markings for ease of use. | Includes 1.5 qt & 2.5 qt saucepans with glass covers; 3 qt saucepan with helper handle and glass cover; 8 qt stockpot with glass cover; 8″ and 10″ skillets; 7.08″ steamer insert; cool grip handles. | Includes 1.5-quart and 3-quart saucepans with covers; 8-quart stockpot with cover; 10-inch skillet; features drip-free pouring, flavor lock lids, and measurement markings. |
| Best For | Home cooks seeking a comprehensive, versatile 17-piece set with durable design and professional performance, ideal for a wide range of cooking tasks. | Users wanting a slightly smaller but still versatile set with cool grip handles and steamer insert for everyday cooking with comfortable handling. | Those who prefer a compact, essential cookware set with classic design and must-have features for basic cooking needs. |
In my opinion, this Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set, Chef’s Classic Steel Collection 77-17N stands out because it offers an extensive selection of cookware pieces, including multiple saucepans of varying sizes, a dutch oven, and a steamer insert, all designed with durable stainless steel and a sleek mirror finish. Its oven safety up to 500°F and dishwasher-friendly design provide added versatility and convenience. If you’re like me and prefer a comprehensive set that covers nearly all cooking needs with professional-grade quality, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set, Chef’s Classic Steel Collection 77-17N
Overall Satisfaction
The cookware set enjoys a high overall satisfaction with a strong average rating of 4.67 out of 5, reflecting reliable quality and performance appreciated by most buyers.
Most Praised Features
- Durable stainless steel construction that heats evenly and cleans easily.
- Comprehensive 17-piece set offering versatility for various cooking needs.
- Comfortable, well-designed handles and lids that fit securely.
Common Concerns
- Some users noted the cookware is heavier than expected, which may affect handling.
- A few customers mentioned minor issues with discoloration after extended use.
Who Loves It Most
This set is especially favored by home cooks seeking a durable, versatile cookware collection that balances professional quality with everyday usability, ideal for families and cooking enthusiasts.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $209.95 with a 32% discount from its original $309.95 price, the Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set offers a competitive price compared to other premium stainless steel sets, making it an affordable option for a comprehensive cookware collection.
Value Features
- Complete 17-piece set including saucepans, skillets, stockpot, sauté pan, and steamer, providing versatile cooking options that justify the investment.
- Aluminum encapsulated base ensures quick, even heating, preventing hot spots and enhancing cooking performance.
- Durable stainless steel surface resists discoloration and flavor alteration, offering longevity and consistent quality.
- Oven safe up to 500°F and dishwasher safe, which saves time and reduces cleanup effort, adding to overall convenience and cost savings.
Vs. Competitors
This set is priced lower than many comparable high-end cookware collections, while still delivering professional-grade features and durability, making it a strong contender in the mid-range market segment.
Final Verdict
The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Steel 17-Piece Set offers excellent value for money with its quality construction, variety of pieces, and current discount. It is a worthwhile purchase for home cooks seeking durability and versatility without overspending.
Hello, This is Annie Walker, a 38-year-old blogger, founder, and editor of Cookware Guider from NY, USA. I am a cookware fanatic and passionate cooker. I love to cook with different types of cooking appliances (example: all types of cookware, rice cookers, slow cookers, etc) almost every day in my kitchen. I love to share my experience with my readers in my blog. Also, I enjoy helping people to solve their problems through my website. You can follow me on Twitter & Pinterest. To know details about my blog please check the about us page.