Comparison: Best Size Stock Pot For Gumbo (Updated | Dec 9th)
Finding the perfect pot for your gumbo is more than just a size game—it’s about capturing the soul of Louisiana in one simmering vessel. A pot that’s too small crowds your ingredients, stifling the rich flavors, while one that’s too large can lead to a watery, disappointing stew. The ideal stock pot is your trusted partner, providing ample space for the holy trinity to soften, the roux to deepen in color, and the seafood and sausage to meld into a harmonious, soul-warming masterpiece that serves the whole crew.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for healthy 20qt choice: HOMICHEF Commercial Grade LARGE STOCK POT 20 Quart With Lid – Nickel Free Stainless Steel Cookware – Healthy Polished Stockpots – Heavy Duty Induction Soup Pot
- Best for healthy 16qt choice: HOMICHEF 16 Quart LARGE Stock Pot with Glass Lid – NICKEL FREE Stainless Steel Healthy Cookware Stockpots with Lids 16 Quart – Mirror Polished Induction Cooking Pot
- Best for heavy-duty 30qt: Bayou Classic 1430 30-qt Stainless Stockpot Features Heavy Duty Welded Handles for Secure Handling Domed Lid Perfect For Large Batch Cooking of Soups Stews Chili and Gumbo
- Best for crowd-pleasing capacity: HOMICHEF LARGE STOCK POT 24 Quart With Lid – Nickel Free Stainless Steel Cookware Stockpot 24 Quart – Healthy Cookware Polished Stockpots – Heavy Duty Induction Pot Soup Pot With Lid
- Best for cajun classic aluminum: IMUSA USA Heavy Duty Cajun Aluminum Stock Pot 14 Quart
- Best for generous 20qt stainless: IMUSA USA Stainless Steel Stock Pot 20-Quart
- Best for outdoor enamel pot: Millvado Granite 21 Qt Stockpot
- Best for induction-ready 19qt: NutriChef 19-Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot – 18/8 Food Grade Heavy-Duty Induction-Compatible Pot with See-Through Lid
- Best for easy-clean nonstick: T-fal Specialty Nonstick Stockpot With Lid 12 Quart
- Best for stylish enamel stockpot: Cuisinart Caskata™ 16 Qt. Enamel on Steel Stockpot with Cover
Product Comparison: Best Size Stock Pot For Gumbo
Healthy 20Qt Choice
HOMICHEF Commercial Grade LARGE STOCK POT 20 Quart With Lid – Nickel Free Stainless Steel Cookware – Healthy Polished Stockpots – Heavy Duty Induction Soup Pot
HOMICHEF
- THIS 20QT STOCKPOT IS A NECESSARY ADDITION TO YOUR KITCHEN – This large 20QT 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 7.8LBS 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.
Healthy 16Qt Choice
HOMICHEF 16 Quart LARGE Stock Pot with Glass Lid – NICKEL FREE Stainless Steel Healthy Cookware Stockpots with Lids 16 Quart – Mirror Polished Induction Cooking Pot
HOMICHEF
- THIS 16QT STOCKPOT IS A NECESSARY ADDITION TO YOUR KITCHEN – This large 16QT 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 6.5LBS 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.
Heavy-Duty 30Qt
Bayou Classic 1430 30-qt Stainless Stockpot Features Heavy Duty Welded Handles for Secure Handling Domed Lid Perfect For Large Batch Cooking of Soups Stews Chili and Gumbo
Bayou Classic
- All Stainless construction
- Side Calibrations in gallon/quart
- Domed Lid
- Heavy-Duty Welded Handles for Secure Handling of Stockpot
- 30-qt / 7.5-gal, 13.25-in Diameter x 12.5-in Height
Crowd-Pleasing Capacity
HOMICHEF LARGE STOCK POT 24 Quart With Lid – Nickel Free Stainless Steel Cookware Stockpot 24 Quart – Healthy Cookware Polished Stockpots – Heavy Duty Induction Pot Soup Pot With Lid
HOMICHEF
- THIS 24QT STOCKPOT IS A NECESSARY ADDITION TO YOUR KITCHEN – This large 24QT 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 8LBS 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.
Cajun Classic Aluminum
IMUSA USA Heavy Duty Cajun Aluminum Stock Pot 14 Quart, Silver
Imusa
- Made of Cast Aluminum
- Aluminum Side Handles for Easy Transport
- Bakelite Knob
- Heats Quickly and Evenly
- Natural Interior Finish
- Ideal for Soups, Stews, Sauces, and other Large Sized Meals
Generous 20Qt Stainless
IMUSA USA Stainless Steel Stock Pot 20-Quart, Silver
Imusa
- GENEROUS COOKING CAPACITY: The 20 quart capacity is ideal for preparing large batches of soups, stews, and seafood, perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping, offering ample space for all your cooking needs
- STYLISH AND FUNCTIONAL: Made of stainless steel with a polished finish and durable stainless steel handles and matching lid that adds a sleek and modern look to your kitchen while ensuring long-lasting use
- VERSATILE FEATURES: Combines quick and even heating with versatile stovetop compatibility, working on glass, ceramic, and electric stoves, making it a reliable choice for various cooking methods
- CULINARY OPTIONS: Ideal for cooking stews, lobster, soups, and corn on the cob, offering a large cooking surface for preparing a variety of dishes with ease
- FOR EVERYDAY USE: Perfect for large family meals, special occasions, and everyday use, a versatile addition to any kitchen
Outdoor Enamel Pot
Millvado Granite 21 Qt Stockpot, Nonstick Soup Pot With Lid, Speckled Enamel Ware Cookware, Large Stock Pot For Boiling and Cooking, Big Granite Cooking Pot for Stovetop, Campfire, Outdoor Stove
Millvado
- LARGE STOCK POT: With a capacity of 21 quarts, this deep pot is the perfect size for cooking up a jumbo batch of chili, gumbo, or beans, slow simmering your favorite soup or stew, or steaming lobster or other seafood for a crowd. It’s makes a great canner, too – large enough to fit lots of jars at once! This lightweight yet durable pot heats up quickly and distributes that heat well, making for faster and more efficient cooking times.
- NATURALLY NONSTICK: Stock pots are carefully crafted with a core of carbon steel, then covered on the inside and outside with a layer of natural enamel. With these black and white speckled stoneware pots, you get the benefits of non stick without having to worry about chemicals! Does not react to acidic foods, either.
- SUITABLE FOR OUTDOOR USE: This large enamel boiling pot works great on outdoor stoves, camp stoves, grills, and open fires. It’s lightweight and easy to carry – perfect for camping! Be sure to bring along a potholder, too, as the handles do get hot.
- HEALTHY COOKING: These nonstick pots are 100% natural and chemical-free, so you don’t have to worry about nasty stuff going into your food. Plus, your enameled pot will not stain or retain flavors or odors from previous cooking sessions.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: When you are finished cooking, just toss this big nonstick stew pot into the dishwasher and let the machine work its magic. If you prefer to hand wash, simply wipe down with a paper towel and rinse under warm, soapy water. Wipe dry.
Induction-Ready 19Qt
NutriChef 19-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 – NCSP20
NutriChef
- 19 QUARTS: The NutriChef Stainless Steel Large Cooking Pot features 19-quart capacity weighing 7.4 lbs w/ lid which is the perfect size for boiling eggs, simmering stocks & soups or making sauces for a large crowd. 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 which is 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 16.45”x12”x13.4”
- 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 glass lid
- INDUCTION READY: The heavy duty stainless steel stock pot is designed for safe use in electric, gas, induction, ceramic, hot plate & halogen cook tops. Though dishwasher safe, hand washing is highly recommended to preserve the stainless steel shine
Easy-Clean 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
Stylish Enamel Stockpot
Cuisinart Caskata™ 16 Qt. Enamel on Steel Stockpot with Cover
Cuisinart
- Large Capacity
- Dishwasher Safe
- Lifetime Warranty
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 size stock pot is best for making gumbo?
For a typical family gumbo, a 16-20 quart pot provides enough space for ingredients to simmer properly without boiling over. If you frequently cook for large gatherings or want to make big batches to freeze, consider the 24-30 quart options like the HOMICHEF 24 Quart or Bayou Classic 30-qt stockpots.
What’s the difference between stainless steel and aluminum stock pots for gumbo?
Stainless steel pots like those from HOMICHEF and NutriChef are more durable, non-reactive with acidic ingredients, and often feature multi-ply construction for even heating. Aluminum pots such as the IMUSA Cajun Aluminum model heat up faster and are lighter weight, but may react with acidic ingredients like tomatoes in some gumbo recipes.
Are nickel-free stock pots worth the extra cost?
Nickel-free stainless steel cookware, like the HOMICHEF models, eliminates potential nickel leaching that can occur with traditional stainless steel. This makes them ideal for those with nickel sensitivities or health concerns, while still providing excellent heat conductivity and durability for making perfect gumbo.
Can I use these stock pots on an induction cooktop?
Most stainless steel stock pots with magnetic properties are compatible with induction cooktops, including the HOMICHEF models and NutriChef stockpot. However, pure aluminum pots like the IMUSA Cajun Aluminum model won’t work on induction unless they have a special magnetic base, so check the specifications if you have an induction range.
Which stock pot is easiest to clean after making gumbo?
Nonstick options like the T-fal 12 Quart and Millvado Granite 21 Qt stockpots offer the easiest cleanup, as they prevent gumbo residue from sticking. The Millvado model is particularly convenient as it’s dishwasher safe and won’t retain flavors or odors from previous cooking sessions.
Are enamel stock pots good for making gumbo?
Enamel stock pots like the Millvado Granite and Cuisinart Caskata models provide excellent heat distribution and won’t react with acidic ingredients in your gumbo. They’re also lightweight, making them easier to handle when full, and the non-porous surface won’t absorb flavors or odors between uses.
What features should I look for in a gumbo stock pot lid?
A good gumbo stock pot should have a tight-fitting lid to trap moisture and heat during simmering. Tempered glass lids like those on HOMICHEF and NutriChef models allow you to monitor your gumbo without removing heat, while vent holes help prevent boil-overs while maintaining proper pressure.
How important is the base thickness for making gumbo?
A thick base (3mm or more) is crucial for making gumbo as it prevents scorching and ensures even heat distribution. The HOMICHEF models feature 4.2mm thick bases with 3-ply construction that eliminates hot spots, which is especially important when slowly simmering roux and developing flavors in gumbo.