Comparison: Best 12 Quart Stock Pot (Updated | Dec 8th)
When it comes to hearty soups, batch cooking, or holiday feasts, a 12-quart stock pot is your kitchen’s unsung hero. But with so many options claiming to be the “best,” how do you choose? We’ve simmered down the choices to bring you the ultimate comparison of top-performing stock pots. From heat distribution to durability, we’ve tested them all so you can invest in a pot that’ll become your trusted cooking companion for years to come.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for health-conscious choice: HOMICHEF 12 Quart LARGE Stock Pot with Glass Lid – NICKEL FREE Stainless Steel Healthy Cookware Stockpots with Lids 12 Quart – Mirror Polished Induction Pot – Commercial Grade Soup Cooking Pot
- Best for five-layer durability: Kirecoo Stainless Steel Stock Pot – 12 Quart Heavy Duty Stock Cooking Pot with Visible Lid for Pasta
- Best for classic reliability: Farberware 50008 Classic Stainless Steel Stock Pot/Stockpot with Lid – 12 Quart
- Best for professional performance: Cooks Standard 18/10 Stainless Steel Stockpot 12-Quart
- Best for italian 5-ply craft: Made In Cookware – 12 Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot With Lid – 5 Ply Stainless Clad – Professional Cookware – Crafted in Italy – Induction Compatible
- Best for commercial grade capacity: NutriChef 12-Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot – 18/8 Food Grade Heavy-Duty Induction-Compatible Pot with See-Through Lid
- Best for effortless nonstick: T-fal Specialty Nonstick Stockpot With Lid 12 Quart
- Best for silicone comfort grip: Cook N Home Stockpot Sauce Pot Induction Pot With Lid Professional Stainless Steel 12 Quart
- Best for tri-ply excellence: Tramontina Gourmet Stainless Steel 12-Quart Stock Pot with Lid
- Best for toxin-free nonstick: BEZIA Large 12 Quart Nonstick Stock Pot with Lid
Product Comparison: Best 12 Quart Stock Pot
Health-Conscious Choice
HOMICHEF 12 Quart LARGE Stock Pot with Glass Lid – NICKEL FREE Stainless Steel Healthy Cookware Stockpots with Lids 12 Quart – Mirror Polished Induction Pot – Commercial Grade Soup Cooking Pot
HOMICHEF
- THIS 12QT STOCKPOT IS A NECESSARY ADDITION TO YOUR KITCHEN – This large 12QT stockpot features the timeless French kitchen elegance design; cuts a fine figure both in the kitchen and at the dining table – Made of food grade NICKEL FREE stainless steel for better health and better nutrition – 4.2MM in base thickness and 5.6LBS in weight – Great for boiling lobster, crab, or simmering stocks, soups for large crowds – Discover the gourmet chef in you with this beautiful and efficient stockpot.
- NICKEL FREE HEALTHY COOKWARE – Made of food grade NICKEL FREE stainless steel, non-toxic, non-allergic & more energy savings. – Japanese standard JYH21CT SS (21/0) for the pot body & the inner base; 430 (18/0) for the outer base – Nickel-bearing stainless steel (e.g., 304 SS) is commonly used for cookware, BUT nickel is high up on the ATSDR list of priority toxins and it LEACHES under regular cooking conditions! – Nickel free stainless steel is also more heat-conductive than nickel bearing SS.
- QUALITY BUILD & ELEGANT APPEARANCE – Look noble & elegant: mirror polished exterior, matte polished interior, see-through clear tempered glass lid with steam vent, and ergonomical stainless steel handles – These pots are beautifully engineered by HOMICHEF’s own in house manufacturing facilities at the world top quality – Compatible with gas, electric, induction, ceramic, glass and halogen stovetops.
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES – 3-Ply construction in the 4.2MM thick base (one layer of pure aluminum core sandwiched between two stainless steel layers) eliminates warping and hotspots effectively and ensures optimal thermal absorption and transmission, thus faster cooking and more energy saving – Solid riveted stainless steel handles stay cool on stovetops – Tempered glass lid is specially designed to release excess vapors while efficiently circulating heat & moisture, preserving flavors & nutrients.
- DEVOTED CUSTOMER SERVICE – Genuine HOMICHEF healthy stainless steel cookware products, certified by ISO9001, BSCI, etc. – TRADEMARK filed in U.S.A. – In business since 1998 – This product comes with 6-Year Product Warrantv & LIFETIME Customer Service – You can always come to us for discounted parts, cooking consultations, and customer service at HOMICHEF store on Amazon.
Five-Layer Durability
Kirecoo Stainless Steel Stock Pot – 12 Quart Heavy Duty Stock Cooking Pot with Visible Lid for Pasta, Soup, Spaghetti, Nonstick Thick Bottom Big Stockpot, Cookware for Canning, Boiling, Simmer
Kirecoo
- Stainless steel and 5 layers bottom: Kirecoo 12-Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot with Lid is an essential kitchen cookware, boasting an advanced stainless steel construction with a 5-layer thickened base. This cooking pot features high temperature and corrosion resistance, promising a long service life without easy deformation. Composed of aluminum, iron, aluminum, and a magnetic base, the 5-layer bottom of stockpot has good sturdiness and performance. It heats quickly and distributes heat evenly.
- Riveted handles and Glass lid: Kirecoo soup pot comes equipped with riveted stainless steel side handles, proving sturdy and secure grip. Smooth handles are ergonomically designed and securely fastened with rivets for easy and safe pouring or moving. Kitchen pot also includes a transparent tempered-glass lid with steam vent allowing you to check the heat and moisture levels during the cooking process. Furthermore, This tight-sealing lid retains heat and moisture enhancing the cooking quality.
- Versatility with Large Size: Kirecoo 12 qt cooking pot features classic sliver appearance and large size, while is ideal large for cooking, boiling, blanching, braising, simmering and more. You can use the large pot to process ingredients for making kinds of recipes. This large pot works well from cooking family-size batches of soups, pasta, spaghetti, sauce, stews to boiling water and canning bath. It is nice to have the extra capacity, so it doesn’t boil over with a lot of liquid.
- Non-stick Interior: Kirecoo non stick pot features an nonstick interior, engineered through a specialized process to achieve exceptional longevity of performance. The superior nonstick surface ensures effortless food release, no only making cooking with soup pots a breeze, but also facilitates easy cleaning. The pasta pot interior will no reacting with food to alter natural tastes, healthy for daily cooking and soup making.
- Wide Compatibility Kitchen Cookware: This Wide Compatibility cookware is designed to make meals efficient and enjoyable. The simmer pot compatible with various cooktops, including gas, electric, ceramic, halogen, stock cooktops. The 5-layer thickened bottom(10MM in base thickness) of Kirecoo stock pot ensures best thermal absorption and transmission no matter what kind of cooktops and safe to 350 degrees F. Please note this 12qt deep pan not applicable with induction stove.
Classic Reliability
Farberware 50008 Classic Stainless Steel Stock Pot/Stockpot with Lid – 12 Quart, Silver
Farberware
- BIG POT STOCKPOT: Big 12-Quart Stockpot with lid works great as a chili pot, lobster pot, or pasta pot
- DURABLE AND VERSATILE STOCKPOT: A full cap base on the stockpot features a thick aluminum core surrounded by stainless steel for rapid, even heating
- STAINLESS STEEL LARGE STOCKPOT: The stainless steel stockpot heavy-duty stainless steel is polished to a mirror finish for a classic touch; the self-basting lid helps seal in heat and moisture
- ICONIC DETAILS: Stockpot is oven safe to 350 degrees F; comfortable handles with iconic styling provide a confident grasp
- DISHWASHER SAFE POT: This dishwasher-safe stockpot combines technology with the styling and quality that Farberware has delivered for decades
Professional Performance
Cooks Standard 18/10 Stainless Steel Stockpot 12-Quart, Classic Deep Cooking Pot Canning Cookware with Stainless Steel Lid, Silver
Cooks Standard
- 18/10 Stainless Steel: 12 quart stockpot made of 18/10 stainless steel, it is durable and resistant to corrosion; The pot body is thick, not easily deformed, and easy to clean
- Even Heating: Stainless steel stock pot with impact bonding aluminum disc in bottom; The aluminum core ensures that heat is evenly distributed /quick and no hot spots
- Multi-Purpose: Standard 12 quart stainless steel stockpot, suitable for cooking soups, pasta, making sauces, stews and noodles
- Ergonomic design: The pot handle is securely fixed with rivets, making it sturdy, durable, and comfortable to hold; It is convenient and safe to operate; The stainless steel lid fits tightly to keep food moist and flavorful
- Versatile and Compatible: 12 qt stockpot works on induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, and more; Dishwasher safety; Oven safe to 500℉
Italian 5-Ply Craft
Made In Cookware – 12 Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot With Lid – 5 Ply Stainless Clad – Professional Cookware – Crafted in Italy – Induction Compatible
Made In
- Total Diameter: 12.44″ | Cooking Surface Diameter: 12.4″ | Height (with handles): 6.59″ | Depth: 6.5″ | Length (handle to handle): 14.5″
- Essential for Every Kitchen – The Made In Stainless Clad Stock Pot is a must-have kitchen tool, offering maximum heat control, responsiveness, and versatility to elevate your cooking experience
- Superior Quality – Made from 5 layers of premium metal for professional-quality heat distribution
- Even Heat Transfer – The lightweight aluminum core offers peerless heat conduction, while a stainless exterior promises superior circulation and retention
- Induction Cooktop Compatible – With a top layer of 430 stainless steel, these Stainless Clad Pots and Pans work effortlessly with any cooktop, including induction
- Expertly Made in Italy – Crafted in Italy from premium metals fit for professional chefs and expert home cooks
Commercial Grade Capacity
NutriChef 12-Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot – 18/8 Food Grade Heavy-Duty Induction-Compatible Pot with See-Through Lid, Ideal for Stews, Broths, Simmering & Soups, Dishwasher Safe – NCSP12
NutriChef
- 12 QUARTS: The NutriChef Stainless Steel Large Cooking Pot features 12-quart capacity weighing 5.84 lbs w/ lid which is the perfect size for boiling eggs, simmering stocks & soups, or making sauces.Great for commercial & home cooking
- ERGONOMIC HANDLES: Features ergonomic stainless steel handles for comfortable handling & cooking. Offers a stylish & modern design w/ mirror polished exterior & matte polished interior adding an elegant touch that complements your existing cookwares
- FOOD-GRADE STAINLESS STEEL: Made of 18/8 non-reactive stainless steel interior, non-toxic, non-allergic & safe for cooking. It has an impact-bonded base for even heat distribution w/ base thickness of 0.228” & pot dimension of 14.6″x 10.2″x 11.2″
- SEE-THROUGH LID: This large pot for cooking is equipped w/ see-through tempered glass lid w/ vent hole that allows steam to escape. It effectively distributes & retains heat for even cooking w/ 500° F max temperature except for glass lid
- INDUCTION READY: The heavy-duty stainless steel stock pot is designed for safe use in gas, induction, ceramic, glass, and halogen cook tops. Though dishwasher safe, hand washing is highly recommended to preserve the stainless steel shine
Effortless Nonstick
T-fal Specialty Nonstick Stockpot With Lid 12 Quart, Oven Broiler Safe 350F, Stay-Cool Handles, Kitchen, Cookware, Pots and Pans, Stock Pot, Soup Pot, Cooking Pot, Dishwasher Safe, Black
T-Fal
- Included components: Cookware;Stockpots;stockpots
- Strong gauge yet lighter weight for easier handling then Stainless Steel
- Aluminum construction for better heat conductivity than Stainless Steel
- Non-stick inside and out for fast and easy clean up throughout; Dishwasher Safe
Silicone Comfort Grip
Cook N Home Stockpot Sauce Pot Induction Pot With Lid Professional Stainless Steel 12 Quart, Dishwasher Safe With Stay-Cool Handles, Silver
Cook N Home
- Professional Stainless Steel Stockpot: 12 quart stockpot with lid made of 18/10 stainless steel polished, well made and very easy to clean, high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, not easy to deform
- Even Heating: Stainless Steel stock pot with impact bonding aluminum disc in bottom; The aluminum core ensures that heat is evenly distributed quick and no hot spots; Great for simmering stocks and soups or making sauces, canning, jarring, and so more
- Easy Viewing: Cooking pot with tempered glass lid, steam vent that releases excess steam and allows you to see your food without opening the lid. Easily monitor your cooking process
- Versatile and Compatible: 12 qt stockpot works on induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, and more; Dishwasher safety; Oven safe to 400℉; Lid up to 350℉
- Comfortable and Strong: The silicone-wrapped handle stays cool to the touch and provides a comfortable grip, while the riveted handle ensures strength and durability
Tri-Ply Excellence
Tramontina Gourmet Stainless Steel 12-Quart Stock Pot with Lid
Tramontina
- 12-Quart Capacity: Perfect for preparing soups, stews, stocks, boiling pasta, and more.
- Tri-Ply Base: Features an impact-bonded tri-ply base for excellent heat distribution and even cooking, ideal for everything from a gentle simmer to a rapid boil.
- Durable 18/10 Stainless Steel: Crafted from high-quality 18/10 stainless steel for lasting durability and a beautiful shine in your kitchen.
- Secure Lid & Riveted Handles: Includes a premium 18/10 stainless steel lid and precision cast riveted stainless steel handles for a secure and comfortable grip while cooking and serving.
- Versatile & Easy to Clean: Compatible with all stovetops, including induction, oven-safe up to 500°F/260°C, and dishwasher-safe for effortless cleanup after a satisfying meal of soup or a festive seafood boil.
Toxin-Free Nonstick
BEZIA Large 12 Quart Nonstick Stock Pot with Lid, Induction Cooking Pot Soup Pot, Non-toxic and Oven Safe, Perfect for Stews, Soups and All Stovetops, PFOA PFAS Free
BEZIA
- 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐨𝐧-𝐓𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐜: The large 12-quart cooking pot with lid has a healthy granite coating that is free of PFOS, PFOA etc, allowing you to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals with peace of mind
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧: The ultra non-stick granite coating prevents food and sticky sauces from sticking and burning to the stock pot, making cleaning a breeze
- 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: The aluminum body structure of this soup pot ensures efficient heat distribution, resulting in fast and even cooking throughout the soup pot, saving you time in the kitchen
- 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐬: Including gas, electric, halogen, ceramic, and induction cookers, this induction pot provides flexibility for any kitchen setting
- 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞: The BEZIA 12 quart pot is oven safe up to 450°F, but the lid should not be placed in the oven. When using the big pot at high temperatures, be sure to wear oven gloves to avoid burns
- 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐝: The perforated design allows excess water vapor to escape, retaining the original flavor of the food and allowing you to monitor the cooking status at any time
- 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐝𝐬: The BEZIA non-stick pot with lid is an essential piece of cookware in the kitchen, enabling you to easily cook a variety of dishes, including curry, pasta, vegetables etc. at home
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when buying a 12-quart stock pot?
Consider the material composition (stainless steel grade, nickel-free options), base construction for even heating, and compatibility with your cooktop. Look for features like comfortable handles, quality lids, and durability that will match your cooking needs and frequency.
How do the different stainless steel grades compare in these stock pots?
The HOMICHEF model uses nickel-free stainless steel (21/0), which is more heat-conductive and eliminates potential nickel leaching concerns. Most other models use 18/10 or 18/8 stainless steel, which are durable and corrosion-resistant but contain nickel that may be a concern for those with allergies or health sensitivities.
Which stock pots offer the best heat distribution?
The Made In Cookware features a 5-ply construction with an aluminum core for superior heat distribution, while the HOMICHEF and Kirecoo models have thick multi-layer bases (4.2mm and 10mm respectively) that eliminate hotspots. Models with impact-bonded aluminum discs like the Farberware and Cooks Standard also provide even heating.
Are these stock pots compatible with induction cooktops?
Most models including the Cooks Standard, Made In Cookware, NutriChef, Cook N Home, Tramontina, and BEZIA are induction-compatible. The Kirecoo model specifically notes it is not compatible with induction stoves, so verify compatibility if this is your primary cooking method.
What are the differences in lid types among these stock pots?
Several models like HOMICHEF, Kirecoo, NutriChef, and Cook N Home feature tempered glass lids with steam vents, allowing you to monitor cooking without lifting the lid. Others like Farberware, Cooks Standard, Made In Cookware, and Tramontina include stainless steel lids that provide a tighter seal and are typically more durable.
Which stock pots offer the best value for money?
The Farberware Classic provides solid performance with its full cap base and iconic styling at a budget-friendly price point. The Cooks Standard offers good value with its 18/10 stainless steel construction and even heating, while the HOMICHEF provides unique nickel-free construction that may justify its price for health-conscious consumers.
How do the nonstick options compare to traditional stainless steel?
The T-fal and BEZIA models offer nonstick interiors that make cleaning easier and reduce food sticking, but may wear over time with heavy use. Traditional stainless steel options like the Cooks Standard and Tramontina are more durable and better for developing fond, though they require more effort to clean and proper technique to prevent sticking.
What are the oven-safe temperature limits for these stock pots?
Most stainless steel models like the Cooks Standard and Tramontina are oven-safe up to 500°F, while the Farberware and T-fal are safe to 350°F. The BEZIA is oven-safe to 450°F, and the NutriChef can withstand 500°F (though the glass lid has lower limits), making them suitable for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven.
Which stock pots have the most comfortable handles?
The Cook N Home features silicone-wrapped handles that stay cool to the touch, while the HOMICHEF and NutriChef have ergonomically designed stainless steel handles. Models with riveted handles like the Kirecoo, Tramontina, and Cooks Standard offer durability and secure grip, though they may become hot during extended cooking.
