Comparison: Stew Pot Vs Stock Pot (Updated | Dec 9th)
When it comes to simmering hearty meals, choosing between a stew pot and stock pot can make all the difference in your culinary creations. While they might look similar at first glance, these kitchen workhorses serve distinct purposes that can elevate your cooking game. Stew pots are designed for thicker, slower-cooked dishes with less liquid, perfect for chunky vegetables and tender meats. Stock pots, with their taller sides and larger capacity, excel at creating flavorful broths and boiling pasta. Understanding these nuances will help you select the right vessel for your next kitchen adventure.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for everyday essential pot: Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid
- Best for bulk cooking champion: IMUSA USA Stainless Steel Stock Pot 20-Quart
- Best for 5-ply heating powerhouse: Kirecoo Stainless Steel Stock Pot – 8 Quart Heavy Duty Induction Cooking Pot with Visible Lid for Pasta
- Best for effortless nonstick choice: Cook N Home Nonstick Stockpot with Lid 10.5-Qt
- Best for charming enamel design: Jucoan 5 Quart Enamel Stockpot with Lid
- Best for chemical-free steel pot: Granite Ware 15.5-Quart Stockpot
- Best for healthy ceramic nonstick: MICHELANGELO 6 QT Ceramic Stock Pot with Lid
- Best for professional grade steel: NutriChef 12-Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot – 18/8 Food Grade Heavy-Duty Induction-Compatible Pot with See-Through Lid
- Best for large capacity workhorse: Ohtomber Stainless Steel Stock Pot – 12 Quart Large Cooking Pot with Lid for Pasta
- Best for precision cooking pot: BEZIA 8 Qt Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid
Product Comparison: Stew Pot Vs Stock Pot
Everyday Essential Pot
Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid, 8 Quart, Even Heating, Easy to Clean, Silver
Amazon Basics
- Large capacity: holds up to 8 quarts–great for large batches of soups, stews, and more
- Sturdy and fast heating: made of heavy-gauge stainless steel for reliable strength; aluminum-encapsulated base distributes heat quickly and evenly
- Riveted handles and glass lid: stainless-steel side handles come riveted for strength; transparent tempered-glass lid with hole for releasing steam
- Versatile: suitable for any stovetop, including induction; oven-safe up to 500 degrees F (without the lid)
- Care and warranty: dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning; backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty
Bulk Cooking Champion
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
5-Ply Heating Powerhouse
Kirecoo Stainless Steel Stock Pot – 8 Quart Heavy Duty Induction Cooking Pot with Visible Lid for Pasta, Soup, Spaghetti, Nonstick Thick Bottom Big Stockpot, Deep Cookware for Canning, Boiling, Simmer
Kirecoo
- Stainless steel and 5 layers bottom: Kirecoo 8-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 8 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, induction cooktops. The 5-layer thickened bottom(10MM in base thickness) of Kirecoo induction pot ensures best thermal absorption and transmission no matter what kind of cooktops and safe to 350 degrees F. Besides, 8qt deep pan is suitable for dishwasher use, ensuring easy cleanup.
Effortless Nonstick Choice
Cook N Home Nonstick Stockpot with Lid 10.5-Qt, Deep Cooking Pot Cookware Canning Stock Pot with Glass Lid, Black
Cook N Home
- Perfect Heat Distribution: Made of thick gauge aluminum, the non-stick stockpot provides even heat conduction and prevents hot spots
- Effortless Cleanup: 10.5 qt stockpot with nonstick coating black interior makes food release and cleaning easy
- Keep Cool Handles: Handles stay cool and are riveted for strength and durability
- See-Through Lids: Tempered glass lid with steam vent makes viewing food easy from start to finish
- Versatile and Compatible: Stockpot works on induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, and more; Dishwasher safety; Oven safe to 400℉; Lid up to 350℉
Charming Enamel Design
Jucoan 5 Quart Enamel Stockpot with Lid, Green Floral Enamelware Cooking Pot with Dual Handles for Stovetop, Large Soup Pot Potpourri Simmer Pot Gift for Housewarming Bridal Shower Christmas
Jucoan
- Vintage Enamlware Stew Pot: Crafted from high-quality enamel-coated cast iron, this 5-quart cooking pot is built to last. The smooth enamel surface is easy to clean and resistant to stains and odors, ensuring your pot stays looking new for years to come.
- 5 Quart Large Capacity: This large 5 quart enamel stockpot with lid measures 11.5 x 9.5 x 8 inch, generous size makes it suitable for family meals or entertaining guests, ideal for simmering, boiling, and slow-cooking, ect, also great as potpourri simmer pot for creating natural home fragrances during seasonal holiday and daily life.
- Stovetop Cooking Pot: This enamel cooking pot heats fast and safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, compatible with various stovetop surface such as Electric stove/Halogen stove/Induction cooktop/Gas stove. Dishwasher safe, but it is recommended to wash and maintain by hand.
- Elegant Design: Heavy duty stew pot features with dual large handles at both sides for comfortable grip and the large cover for sealing in moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Ideal Gift: Packed in an attractive gift box, this elegant enamel soup pot featuring a beautiful green floral pattern adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen decor, makes a perfect present for weddings, bridal shower, housewarmings, birthdays, or any special occasion.
Chemical-Free Steel Pot
Granite Ware 15.5-Quart Stockpot, Large Capacity for Soups, Stews, Pasta – Durable Graniteware with Non-Stick Surface for Easy Cleaning – Chip-Resistant & Even Heat Distribution (Speckled Black)
Granite Ware
- Our products are versatile and efficient, but please note: they are NOT SUITABLE for use on GLASS COOKTOPS or INDUCTION STOVETOPS.
- Includes: 15.5 Qt Stock Pot with Lid, perfect for cooking your favorite meals outdoors or at home. Ideal for preparing stews, beans, preserves, lentils, sauces, soups, and pastas.
- Dishwasher Safe: Effortless cleaning is at your fingertips with this feature, ensuring it’s safe to be placed in the dishwasher. This not only saves you valuable time but also minimizes effort, especially after a satisfying meal.
- Versatility: This pan isn’t limited to just roasting; it’s equally adept at baking, broiling, grilling, and even serving. Its unique construction promotes even heating, ensuring faster cooking times for a range of culinary delights
- Chemical-Free: Our product is free from harmful substances like PFOA and PTFE, ensuring a cooking experience that is both safe and reliable. By eliminating these chemicals, we reduce the risk of exposure, promote environmental sustainability, and provide you with the confidence to enjoy your meals. The glass interior preserves the natural taste of your food without any alterations.
- Durable and Reusable: Our product boasts a long-lasting color glare that remains intact for many years, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Moreover, it won’t compromise the taste of your food; in fact, it enhances flavors! The inert glass surface doesn’t absorb foods, guaranteeing that the taste remains unaltered, setting it apart from other surfaces.
Healthy Ceramic Nonstick
MICHELANGELO 6 QT Ceramic Stock Pot with Lid, Nonstick Stockpot with Glass Lid, Induction Cooking Pot for Soups, Stews, Oven Safe – 6QT, Purple
MICHELANGELO
- Healthy & Non-Toxic Cooking: Our ceramic-coated stockpot is free of PFOA and PFOS, ensuring no harmful substances are released during cooking, allowing you to prepare meals with peace of mind for your family.
- Even Heat Distribution: The aluminum body provides superior heat conductivity, while the tri-ply bottom distributes heat quickly and evenly for enhanced flavor and texture. This ceramic pot is oven-safe up to 450°F for versatile stovetop-to-oven cooking.
- Superior Nonstick Performance: The advanced nonstick coating prevents food from sticking, making cleaning a breeze and reducing oil use by 90%. Its durability ensures long-lasting nonstick performance, maintaining its quality over time. Hand washing recommended.
- Convenient Glass Lid: The tempered glass lid is heat-resistant and impact-resistant for safe cooking. The clear design allows you to monitor food without lifting the lid, preventing heat loss and ensuring nutrients are retained.
- Versatile Usage: 6 qt pot with lid is suitable for various cooking needs and methods, including boiling, stewing, simmering, and sautéing. It is also compatible with all stovetops including induction.
- Stylish and Aesthetic: With a modern, minimalist design that combines functionality and aesthetics, this soup pot complements any kitchen décor. The exterior features vibrant, long-lasting colors that are scratch-resistant. Available in black, cream yellow, haze blue, light blue, and morandi green.
Professional Grade Steel
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
Large Capacity Workhorse
Ohtomber Stainless Steel Stock Pot – 12 Quart Large Cooking Pot with Lid for Pasta, Soup, Spaghetti, Nonstick Thick Base Deep Stockpot, Kitchen Cookware for Stew, Simmer, Boiling, Canning
Ohtomber
- Large and Versatile Cookware: The Ohtomber 12 quart stock pot with lid, with its large capacity, is ideal for cooking, steaming, simmering, boiling, and stew, all while effectively reducing boil-overs. This big pot is suitable for different dishes, including soups, pasta, chili, spaghetti, pho, broths, lobsters, and stew sauces, as well as for canning baths. Whether you’re preparing meals for your family or hosting gatherings, this cooking pot provides ample space to meet all your cooking needs.
- Multi-Layer Base: The Ohtomber large 12 qt cooking stock pot with lid is crafted from stainless steel, combined with a robust 5-layer base that is compatible with various cooktops, including gas, electric, ceramic and halogen. This ensures optimal thermal absorption and transmission and makes it safe to use at temperatures of up to 350 degrees F. The 10MM thickness of this cooking pot in the base ensures quick and even heating, making it perfect for a variety of cooking tasks.
- Non-Stick Performance for Effortless Cooking: 12 quart stainless steel soup pot with lid is equipped with a non-stick interior, designed through a specialized process to ensure long-lasting performance. The surface of cooking stock pot guarantees effortless food release, making cooking and cleaning a breeze. It reduces the risk of food sticking and burning, while also preventing any reaction with food, preserving the natural flavors and ensuring healthy cooking for all your culinary needs.
- Ergonomic Handle and Visible Glass Design: This large pot for cooking features riveted stainless steel handles and a tempered-glass lid with a steam vent, offering a secure grip. The design of this stockpot allows for easy pouring, while the transparent lid of the pasta pot lets you monitor the cooking process without losing heat or moisture. The lid can be adjusted to hang over the edge, preventing it from sliding off. This soup pot is designed to make cooking both convenient and enjoyable.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: This big stew stock pot has smooth edges with no sharp corners, ensuring that they won’t hurt your hands and making them easy to clean by hand. A steel wool can get the burned bits off easily. They are also dishwasher safe. This simmer pot is not only useful in your kitchen or for outdoor camping like RV stoves, but it also makes a great gift for your friends and family on birthdays, housewarmings, thanksgivings, Christmas or other festivals.
Precision Cooking Pot
BEZIA 8 Qt Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid, Induction Ready Large Soup Pot with Lid, Tri-ply Bottom for Even Heat, Kitchen Cooking Pots for Pasta, Soup, Spaghetti
BEZIA
- 𝟖 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐢𝐝: Diameter 9.45 inches, height 6.8 inches. Ideal for families, this spacious yet easy-to-handle stock pot excels at soups, stocks, pasta, and braises. Generous capacity, effortless cooking—perfect for meal prep and gatherings
- 𝟑-𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭: 18/10 stainless steel with aluminum core delivers fast, even heating, no hot spots. Thick 3-ply construction prevents stainless steel pot warping and maintains consistent simmer for sauces/stock
- 𝟏𝟎𝟎% 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝-𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 & 𝐍𝐨𝐧-𝐓𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐜: Made with premium 18/10 stainless steel, this cooking pot contains no PFOA, PTFE, or harmful coatings that peel over time. Unlike non-stick pots, its scratch-resistant surface won’t degrade—ensuring healthier meals and long-lasting performance
- 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: Compatible with gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops, this large soup pot with lid supports versatile cooking techniques, letting you cook on any surface without restrictions
- 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: The polished interior of the stainless steel pot resists food residue, so food wipes away easily with just a sponge and warm soapy water. No stubborn residue, no special cleaners—just quick, hassle-free cleanup after every use
- 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐏𝐨𝐭 𝐋𝐢𝐝: Mirror-polished stainless steel design with tight seal reduces steam loss by 30%. Durable single-piece construction resists warping and dents, perfect for soups, stews and pasta
- 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 & 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝: Ergonomically designed golden stainless steel handles of this stock pot with lid , making it easy to handle and maneuver during cooking
- 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬: Clearly marked quart and liter measurements inside the cooking pot let you add ingredients accurately while cooking. The engraved scales stay visible through years of use, even with frequent washing, so you’ll never need separate measuring cups
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’s the difference between a stew pot and a stock pot?
While both are large pots for liquid-based cooking, they have key design differences. Stock pots are typically taller and narrower with straight sides, ideal for making stocks, broths, and boiling pasta where you want to minimize evaporation. Stew pots are often wider and shorter, which allows for better evaporation and browning, making them ideal for simmering stews and braising meats.
What size pot should I choose for my family?
For small families or couples, a 5-8 quart pot like the Amazon Basics or Jucoan models is usually sufficient. Medium-sized families might prefer 10-12 quart options such as the Cook N Home or NutriChef stockpots. If you frequently cook for large gatherings or enjoy batch cooking and meal prepping, consider larger capacities like the 15.5-quart Granite Ware or the massive 20-quart IMUSA stock pot.
Which material is best: stainless steel, aluminum, or enamel?
Stainless steel is durable, non-reactive, and works well for all types of cooking, making it a versatile choice. Aluminum provides excellent heat conductivity and is often found in stockpots with non-stick coatings. Enamel-coated cast iron, like the Jucoan model, offers superior heat retention and adds aesthetic appeal but requires more careful maintenance.
Are these pots compatible with my induction cooktop?
Most stainless steel stockpots like the Amazon Basics, Kirecoo, and BEZIA models are induction-ready due to their magnetic bases. The Cook N Home, MICHELANGELO, and NutriChef pots are also compatible with induction cooktops. However, be aware that the Granite Ware stockpot is explicitly not suitable for induction stovetops, so check compatibility before purchasing if you have an induction range.
Which pots offer the best heat distribution?
Pots with multi-layer bottoms provide superior heat distribution and prevent hot spots. The Kirecoo and Ohtomber models feature 5-layer bases for optimal thermal absorption, while the BEZIA has a 3-ply clad bottom. Aluminum stockpots like the Cook N Home naturally conduct heat well, and the MICHELANGELO’s tri-ply bottom ensures even heating for consistent cooking results.
Which pots are easiest to clean?
Non-stick options like the Cook N Home and MICHELANGELO pots offer the easiest cleanup, with food releasing effortlessly from their interiors. The Kirecoo and Ohtomber models also feature non-stick interiors for easy cleaning. Many stainless steel options are dishwasher-safe, including the Amazon Basics and IMUSA models, though hand washing is often recommended to maintain their appearance.
Are these pots oven-safe for recipes that require finishing in the oven?
Many stockpots offer oven-safe features, but temperature limits vary. The Amazon Basics stockpot is oven-safe up to 500°F (without the lid), while the Cook N Home is safe to 400°F. The MICHELANGELO ceramic pot can withstand temperatures up to 450°F, and the Jucoan enamel pot is safe to 400°F. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for both pot and lid temperature limits before using in the oven.
Which pots are best for health-conscious cooking?
For health-conscious cooking, consider options free from harmful chemicals. The MICHELANGELO ceramic pot is free of PFOA and PFOS, ensuring no harmful substances are released during cooking. The BEZIA stainless steel pot contains no PFOA, PTFE, or harmful coatings that can peel over time. The Granite Ware stockpot is also chemical-free with a glass interior that preserves the natural taste of food without any alterations.
