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Le Creuset 3-ply Stainless Steel Saucepan Set: Professional Quality for Everyday Cooking
This three-piece Le Creuset saucepan set delivers professional kitchen performance through thoughtfully engineered 3-ply construction and versatile sizing. The 16cm, 18cm, and 20cm pans cover the spectrum of daily cooking needs - from heating milk and preparing sauces to cooking vegetables and main dishes for the family. The multi-layered stainless steel and aluminium construction eliminates hot spots, distributing heat evenly and gently throughout each pan.
This professional set combines Le Creuset quality with practical design features:
- 3-ply construction bonds premium stainless steel and aluminium in three layers for rapid, even heat distribution
- Three versatile sizes - 16cm for sauces and small portions, 18cm for sides and vegetables, 20cm for main dishes and family meals
- Helper handles on each pan allow safe two-handed lifting when full or hot
- Precision pouring rim ensures clean, drip-free pouring of liquids
- All hob compatibility including gas, electric, ceramic, halogen, and induction
- Oven safe to 260°C including handles, allowing hob-to-oven cooking
- Dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning, though hand washing preserves appearance
- Freezer compatible for make-ahead meal preparation
- Lifetime guarantee from Le Creuset demonstrates construction confidence
The 3-ply technology represents genuine engineering rather than marketing claims. The aluminium core conducts heat rapidly and evenly, whilst the stainless steel inner and outer layers provide durability, cooking surface quality, and hob compatibility. This bonded construction distributes heat throughout the entire pan base and up the sides, eliminating the hot spots common in thinner, single-layer cookware. The result is gentle, even cooking that prevents burning whilst reducing energy consumption.
The helper handle - a smaller secondary handle opposite the main handle - transforms practical safety. When pans are full of soup, pasta water, or heavy casseroles, the ability to lift with both hands reduces strain and increases control. This feature proves particularly valuable when transferring hot pans from hob to oven or carrying to the table for service.
The three sizes address different cooking requirements. The 16cm pan handles sauces, porridge for two, heating milk, or small vegetable portions. The 18cm pan suits side dishes, vegetables for 2-4 people, or sauce quantities for family meals. The 20cm pan accommodates pasta for four, soups, main dish vegetables for 4-6 people, or one-pot meals. Together, they cover the vast majority of everyday saucepan requirements.
Stainless steel cookware requires slightly different technique than non-stick - proper preheating and using adequate fat prevents sticking. In return, you gain superior browning capability, durability that lasts decades, oven-safe flexibility, and freedom from coating degradation. The 260°C oven-safe rating means you can start dishes on the hob and finish in the oven, or use these pans for oven-based casseroles and braises.
Suitable for those building foundational cookware collections, anyone seeking quality pans that last decades, cooks who value even heating and versatility, and as exceptional wedding or housewarming gifts backed by Le Creuset's reputation.
What Customers Ask About Le Creuset 3-ply Saucepan Set
What does 3-ply construction mean?
The 3-ply construction bonds premium-grade stainless steel and aluminium together in three layers. The aluminium core conducts heat rapidly and evenly, whilst the stainless steel inner and outer layers provide durability and compatibility with all hobs. This multi-layered technology spreads heat gently through the entire pan base and sides, eliminating hot spots and ensuring even cooking.
What are the helper handles for?
The helper handle is a smaller secondary handle opposite the main handle, making it easier to lift and move heavier pans safely when full of food or liquid. This is particularly useful when transferring pans from hob to oven, or when serving directly at the table. Both hands can grip securely for better control.
Can I use these on my induction hob?
Yes, these saucepans are suitable for all cooktops including induction. The 3-ply stainless steel construction is fully induction compatible. Ensure you use an appropriately sized hob ring - if the ring is too large, the induction hob may not recognise the pan.
Are these oven safe and to what temperature?
Yes, the entire set is oven safe up to 260°C, including the handles. This allows you to start dishes on the hob and finish them in the oven, or use the saucepans for oven-braising. Always use oven gloves when handling hot cookware. Not suitable for microwaves.
Can I use metal utensils with these pans?
Yes, metal utensils can be used with care on stainless steel cookware. However, avoid harsh scraping or knocking metal utensils on the rim. Le Creuset recommends silicone, wooden, or heat-resistant plastic tools for best results and to maintain the pan's appearance over time.
Why shouldn't I add salt directly to the stainless steel surface?
Undissolved salt crystals sitting on stainless steel can cause pitting corrosion over time. Always add salt to hot cooking liquid or food where it dissolves immediately, rather than sprinkling it directly onto the dry or cold stainless steel surface. This simple practice maintains the pan's appearance.
Can these go in the dishwasher?
Yes, these saucepans are dishwasher safe. However, hand washing with warm soapy water helps preserve the exterior finish and appearance longer. If using the dishwasher, harsh detergents may cause some discolouration over time, though this doesn't affect cooking performance.
What does the Le Creuset lifetime guarantee cover?
Le Creuset's lifetime guarantee covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. It doesn't cover damage from misuse, accidents, normal wear and tear, or damage from improper care such as thermal shock. Contact Le Creuset directly with proof of purchase if you experience manufacturing defects.
Why does the care guide say not to plunge hot pans into cold water?
Sudden temperature changes (thermal shock) can warp metal cookware. Always allow pans to cool for a few minutes before washing. This practice maintains the flat base essential for even heating, particularly important on induction and electric hobs where warped pans won't make proper contact.
Do I need to use high heat with these pans?
No, the 3-ply construction's excellent heat distribution means medium or low heat produces best results, even for frying and searing. Let the pan heat gradually, then cook as normal. High heat can cause food to stick and may discolour the exterior over time. Lower heat gives better control and results.
What We've Learned About Cookware Since 1972
After five decades of selling cookware, we've learned that 3-ply construction represents genuine value for everyday cooking. The aluminium core conducts heat rapidly and evenly - far superior to thin single-layer pans where hot spots cause burning. The stainless steel layers provide durability and versatility that non-stick coatings cannot match.
Le Creuset's reputation is built on products that last decades rather than years. Whilst the initial investment exceeds basic cookware, proper care means these saucepans will outlast multiple sets of cheaper alternatives. The lifetime guarantee demonstrates this confidence - Le Creuset knows these pans endure.
The three-size set covers approximately 80% of everyday saucepan needs. Customers occasionally ask if they need more sizes - usually not. The 16cm, 18cm, and 20cm range handles everything from morning porridge to evening pasta, with helper handles making full pans manageable. This is foundational cookware that serves you for life.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before First Use: Remove all labels and packaging. Wash thoroughly in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry completely. This removes any manufacturing residue.
Preheating: Place the empty pan on an appropriately sized hob ring and heat on medium for 1-2 minutes. The pan is ready when a drop of water forms a ball that rolls across the surface. Add fat or liquid, then add food. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Cooking Temperature: Use medium or low heat for best results, even for frying and searing. The 3-ply construction's excellent heat distribution makes high temperatures unnecessary. Let the pan heat gradually, then adjust heat as needed during cooking.
Adding Salt: Never sprinkle salt directly onto the dry or cold stainless steel surface. Always add salt to hot cooking liquid or food where it dissolves immediately. This prevents pitting corrosion and maintains appearance.
Using Metal Utensils: Metal utensils can be used with care. Avoid harsh scraping or banging utensils against the rim. Le Creuset silicone, wooden, or heat-resistant plastic tools provide best results and maintain appearance.
Hob Ring Selection: Use the most appropriately sized ring for each pan. If the ring is too large, heat concentrates in the centre causing hot spots. On induction hobs, wrong-sized rings may prevent the hob from recognising the pan.
Oven Use: These pans are oven safe to 260°C including handles. Place on a shelf or rack, never directly on the oven floor. When using under the grill, maintain at least 5cm gap between heat source and pan top. Always use oven gloves when handling.
After Cooking: Allow the pan to cool for a few minutes before washing. Never plunge hot pans into cold water or fill hot pans with cold water - thermal shock can cause warping.
Daily Cleaning: Wash in warm soapy water with a soft sponge or cloth. For stubborn residue, soak briefly then clean. Whilst dishwasher safe, hand washing preserves the exterior finish longer.
Stubborn Stains: For burnt-on food, fill with warm water and a small amount of washing-up liquid, bring to a simmer, then allow to cool and wash normally. For discolouration, specialist stainless steel cleaners restore shine.
Drying and Storage: Dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots. Store with care - placing paper towels between stacked pans prevents scratching.
Avoid: Never heat empty pans excessively. Don't use the induction 'boost' function except for rapidly heating large water volumes. Don't use harsh abrasives that could scratch the surface. Don't leave unattended on heat.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Plus Le Creuset's Lifetime Guarantee on this product
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used them and don't like them?
Return them anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if they don't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked with the saucepans.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this set, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damage are acceptable.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
