The Cuisinart MCP-12N MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set and the nearly identical MCP-12 are powerhouse cookware sets from Cuisinart, differing mainly in handle design and sometimes lid material. The MCP-12N features cooler, more ergonomic "Cool Grip" handles and often comes with stainless steel lids, while the earlier MCP-12 may have slightly different handles and glass lids depending on the production run.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which of these popular stainless steel sets is the right choice for your kitchen.
Cuisinart MCP-12N MultiClad Pro 12-Piece Set
The Cuisinart MCP-12N is the current flagship of the MultiClad Pro line, renowned for its triple-ply construction that provides excellent heat distribution without the hefty price tag of premium brands. This set is a favorite among serious home cooks for its professional-grade performance, durability, and thoughtful design details, like its signature "Cool Grip" handles and drip-free pouring rims.
- What it is: A comprehensive 12-piece stainless steel cookware set featuring triple-ply construction for superior heat conductivity.
- Key features: Triple-ply construction (stainless steel interior, pure aluminum core, brushed stainless exterior), Cool Grip riveted cast stainless steel handles, tight-fitting stainless steel lids, drip-free tapered rims.
- Price: Typically ranges from $270 to $330.
- What's included: 1.5-qt. and 3-qt. covered saucepans, 8" and 10" open skillets, 3.5-qt. covered sauté pan, 8-qt. covered stockpot, steamer insert with lid.
- Materials/Construction: The triple-ply design ensures even heating from the base all the way up the sides of the pans. The set is oven-safe up to 550°F and compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
- Style: Professional and utilitarian with a classic brushed stainless steel finish that looks at home in any kitchen.
- Pros: Excellent heat distribution eliminates hot spots. Ergonomic Cool Grip handles stay cooler on the stovetop. Durable and long-lasting build quality. Drip-free rims make pouring clean and easy. Dishwasher safe for simple cleanup.
- Cons: Stainless steel lids prevent you from seeing your food as it cooks. Handles on the smaller pans can feel oversized. Can be prone to discoloration if overheated.
This set is ideal for home chefs who want professional performance, durability, and induction compatibility without the significant investment required for brands like All-Clad.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/cookware/stainless-steel_cookware/mcp-12n/
Cuisinart MCP-12 MultiClad Pro 12-Piece Set
The Cuisinart MCP-12 is the original version of this beloved cookware line and shares the same fantastic triple-ply construction and performance as the MCP-12N. It was the set that established Cuisinart's reputation for high-value, professional-quality cookware. While largely discontinued and replaced by the MCP-12N, it can sometimes be found online or in older retail stock, often with slight variations.
- What it is: The predecessor to the MCP-12N, this 12-piece set also features triple-ply stainless steel construction.
- Key features: Identical triple-ply construction to the MCP-12N, riveted stainless steel handles (design can vary), tapered pouring rims. Some versions came with glass lids instead of stainless steel.
- Price: Around $250 to $300, but availability is limited.
- What's included: The piece count and sizes are generally the same as the MCP-12N, including saucepans, skillets, a sauté pan, stockpot, and a steamer insert.
- Materials/Construction: Features the same high-performance pure aluminum core bonded between two layers of stainless steel, ensuring even heating across all cooking surfaces. Also oven and dishwasher safe.
- Style: Classic and durable, with a brushed exterior. The main aesthetic difference may be the handle shape or the inclusion of glass lids on certain production runs.
- Pros: Offers the same exceptional cooking performance and heat distribution as the MCP-12N. Potentially available at a slightly lower price if you can find it. Some users may prefer the glass lids for monitoring food.
- Cons: Largely discontinued and difficult to find new. Handle design is not as refined or ergonomic as the newer MCP-12N's "Cool Grip." Variations in product (e.g., lid material) can cause confusion when purchasing.
The MCP-12 is a great find for a budget-conscious buyer who prioritizes cooking performance above all else and doesn't mind a slightly less refined handle design.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/cookware/stainless-steel_cookware/mcp-12/
MCP-12 vs. MCP-12N Comparison
Materials & Construction
The core of both sets is identical and is their claim to fame: a triple-ply construction with a pure aluminum core sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel. This design ensures food heats evenly and consistently, eliminating the hot spots common in cheaper, disc-bottomed cookware. Both the MCP-12 and MCP-12N are durable, non-reactive, and built to last for years. The build quality on both is excellent, but the MCP-12N represents the final, refined version of the product line.
Handles & Lids
The biggest functional difference lies in the handles. The MCP-12N features Cuisinart’s signature "Cool Grip" handles, which are cast stainless steel and designed to be more ergonomic and stay cooler to the touch on the stovetop. While the original MCP-12 handles are also sturdy and riveted, they are generally considered less comfortable to hold. Furthermore, the MCP-12N consistently ships with tight-fitting stainless steel lids that help lock in heat and moisture. Older versions of the MCP-12 were sometimes sold with tempered glass lids, which some cooks prefer for visibility.
Performance & Use
In terms of cooking performance, the two sets are virtually indistinguishable. Both heat up quickly and evenly, sear meat beautifully, and are versatile enough to go from the stovetop (including induction) directly into an oven up to 550°F. The drip-free pouring rims on both sets are a fantastic feature that makes transferring liquids mess-free. The decision a buyer faces is not about which set cooks better, but which has the better user-friendly features - primarily, the more comfortable and cooler handles on the MCP-12N.
Price & Value
The price gap between the two is marginal, usually less than $50. Given the MCP-12N's improved handles, wider availability, and status as the current model, it generally offers a better value proposition. You're getting a slightly more refined product for a very small premium. The older MCP-12 is only a better value if found at a significant discount, which is rare due to its limited availability.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both cookware sets deliver exceptional results, but the slight differences cater to different shopping priorities.
Choose the Cuisinart MCP-12N if:
- You prioritize comfort and ergonomics - the Cool Grip handles are a significant upgrade.
- You want the most current and readily available version of the set.
- You prefer durable, matching stainless steel lids for high-heat oven use.
- You're willing to pay a small premium for refined design features.
Choose the Cuisinart MCP-12 if:
- You find an older set at a deep discount and getting a bargain is your main goal.
- You have a strong preference for glass lids to monitor cooking and find a version that includes them.
- Handle ergonomics aren't a major concern for you.
- You're comfortable buying a discontinued model that may be harder to replace or find matching pieces for later on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the Cuisinart MCP-12 and MCP-12N?
The primary difference is the handle design. The MCP-12N has upgraded "Cool Grip" handles that are more ergonomic and designed to stay cooler. The MCP-12's original handles are less refined. Additionally, the MCP-12N consistently includes stainless steel lids, while some older MCP-12 versions came with glass lids.
Is Cuisinart MultiClad Pro as good as All-Clad?
Cuisinart MultiClad Pro offers approximately 90% of the performance of All-Clad's D3 line at a fraction of the cost. While All-Clad is made in the USA and has a superior finish and fit, the MCP sets provide comparable heat distribution and cooking results, making them an excellent value.
Are both sets induction-compatible?
Yes, the stainless steel exterior on both the MCP-12N and MCP-12 sets makes them fully compatible with induction cooktops.
How do you clean and prevent food from sticking to Cuisinart stainless steel pans?
To prevent sticking, always preheat your pan properly over medium heat before adding oil. Wait for the oil to shimmer before adding food. For cleaning, soak the pan in warm, soapy water to loosen any stuck-on bits. Use a non-abrasive cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend to remove stubborn stains and restore the shine.
Can the lids go in the oven?
The stainless steel lids of the MCP-12N are oven-safe up to 550°F, just like the pans. If you have an MCP-12 set with glass lids, check the manufacturer’s instructions, but they are typically oven-safe to a lower temperature, usually around 350-400°F.
Do the handles on the MCP-12N really stay cool?
On the stovetop, the long Cool Grip handles are designed to dissipate heat and will stay cool enough to touch. However, they are made of metal and will get hot in the oven, so always use an oven mitt.
Are these cookware sets dishwasher safe?
Yes, both sets are rated as dishwasher safe. However, to maintain the cookware's luster and prolong its life, hand washing is often recommended by cooking enthusiasts.
What does "triple-ply construction" mean?
Triple-ply construction means the pots and pans are made from three bonded layers of metal. For the MCP series, it's a pure aluminum core sandwiched between an inner layer of stainless steel (for a safe cooking surface) and an outer layer of brushed stainless steel (for durability and induction compatibility).
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