If you’re in the market for the best pot for gumbo, the most important factors you must consider are the pot’s material, size, and useful features like lid and handles. If you’re not sure which pot to pick, I’ve put together the best pots for gumbo.
When it comes to making gumbo, there’s a lot that goes into the delectable Louisiana staple, from starting the roux to simmering the final product. And choosing the right pot for creating and serving gumbo can make life easier for home cooks, especially if you make gumbo often. If you enjoy cooking classic dishes like gumbo at home, a quality stock pot is a great investment.
With so many options to choose from, I know it can be a little overwhelming. To save you the frustration of getting a mediocre pot or researching for hours, I’ve recommended pots that gumbo lovers can rely on in making the delicious dish. Also, I’ll talk you through choosing the best pot with the handy buying guide I’ve curated below.
My Top Picks
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
 | Cuisinart Contoured 12-Quart Stockpot | – Aluminum; Nonstick, anodized – Riveted stainless steel handles – Tempered glass lid with stainless rims – Broiler and oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit – Not suitable for induction | Check on Amazon |
 | HOMICHEF 20-Quart Stockpot | – Stainless steel construction – 3-Ply 7mm thick base – Mirror polished exterior, matte interior – Nickel-free – Solid riveted stainless steel handles – Tempered glass lid – Compatible with gas, electric, induction, ceramic, glass, halogen stovetops – 6-year warranty | Check on Amazon |
 | Cook N Home 20-Quart Saucepot | – 18/10 Stainless steel construction – Aluminum disc layered bottom – Tempered glass lid with steam vent – Riveted stainless steel handles with silicone – Oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit – Suitable for induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, halogen stovetops – Dishwasher-safe | Check on Amazon |
 | Cook N Home 16-Quart Stockpot | – Mirror-polished stainless steel body – Capsuled aluminum disc – Riveted stainless steel handles – Tempered glass lid with steam vent – Oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit – Suitable for induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, halogen stovetops – Dishwasher-safe | Check on Amazon |
 | T-fal B36262 12-Quart Stockpot | – Heavy-gauge aluminum construction – Nonstick interior and exterior – Glass lid with steam vent – Suitable for gas and electric coil | Check on Amazon |
Here Are the Best Pots for Gumbo
Every home cook, seasoned or newbie, needs a good stockpot, whether it be for gumbo, soups, or stews. Here are the best pots you can rely on whenever you want to make something special to serve on the table.
Cuisinart Contoured 12-Quart Stockpot
The Cuisinart Contoured 12-Quart Stockpot is a tempting cooking pot that could spice up your gumbo cooking session. With its contoured hard-anodized aluminum body, I picked this to be on the list because I need you to see how visually pleasing it is. It’s a nice shift from the standard pot with straight-edged sides.
But don’t get it twisted; the contoured silhouette doesn’t affect its superior heat conductivity. This pot has a non-stick coating. It can also withstand high oven temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Making it ideal for use on gas burners, except induction.
It has riveted stainless steel handles and a tempered glass lid with stainless rims. In addition, its rim has been tapered to make pouring simpler and saves you from spilling your gumbo soup. This stock pot also allows you to store the leftover gumbo in the freezer. It may be on the pricier side than other pots, but I think it’s worth giving it a go.
Pros:
• Heavy-duty gumbo pot
• Heats up quickly
• Distributes heat evenly
• Unique contoured body
• Freezer-safe
• Oven-safe
Cons:
• Not compatible with induction cooktop
• It’s a bit pricier than other pots
HOMICHEF 20-Quart Stockpot
The HOMICHEF 20-Quart Stockpot is a top-rated pot that earns the trust of home cooks for its timeless French kitchen elegance design. This 20-quart commercial-grade pot is suitable for large meals. It’s made of nickel-free stainless steel construction, with a triple-ply 7mm-thick base. This one is among the best pots that boast durability.
It features a mirror-polished exterior which allows for easy cleaning. The matte interior is excellent for protecting the pot from dust. It has a tempered glass lid and a steam spout which seals in moisture and keeps your gumbo fresh.
The cooking pot is a little heavier, though. But that adds to its durability. Its handles are solid, and its bottom is thick and strong. You can count on the non-toxic property of this pot since it doesn’t have nickel, which can affect the pot’s conductivity. The solid riveted stainless steel handles make maneuvering easy.
It may be on the pricier side like the previous one, but it’s worth investing in for its superb quality. This pot is suitable for most stovetops. You’ll also get your money’s worth with a lengthy six-year warranty.
Pros:
• Durable and heavy-duty
• Timeless, elegant design
• Easy to clean
• Nickel-free
• Sturdy handles and lid
• Compatible with most stovetops
• Comes with a 6-year warranty
Cons:
• Heavy
• It’s a bit pricier than other pots
Cook N Home 20-Quart Saucepot
Here’s a more affordable, yet durable option for a perfectly cooked gumbo. The Cook N Home 20-Quart Saucepot has a polished silver finish that will suit well with any kitchen setting. It’s made of 18/10 stainless steel material, making it an easy option if you’re looking for a durable gumbo pot.
This pot has an aluminum disc layered bottom, which allows for superior heat conductivity. It’s also magnetic so it sits well on inductions. Even though the steel construction gives it heft, the longevity offsets the weight. I think it gives the pot a more sturdy feel.
Its tempered glass lid helps to keep in moisture and lets you observe the cooking process from above. The lid also has a steam vent, which prevents your food from overcooking. Its handles are covered in silicone and are just as sturdy as the body. They stay cool, making the pot easy to hold.
It’s oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and is compatible with most stovetops. This pot is easy to clean since you can place it in your dishwasher. It’s also less likely to scratch.
Pros:
• Durable with high heat conductivity
• Premium polished finish
• Strong, ergonomic handles
• Oven-safe; suits most stovetops
• Budget-friendly
• Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
• Heavy
• Thinner handles
• The metal gets a little dull through heavy use
Cook N Home 16-Quart Stockpot
The Cook N Home 16-Quart Stockpot is another cooking pot from the brand that many home cooks love using to make traditional gumbos. This stockpot is crafted from stainless steel with strong riveted handles. Much like most pots, it features a tempered glass lid with a steam vent, which keeps your food from overcooking.
Its capsulled aluminum disc on the bottom of the pot guarantees even heat distribution. The thing that I appreciate most, aside from its durability, is how you can put the pot in the oven with the lid on. It lives up to its durability as the lid can also withstand heat temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
The pot itself can withstand oven temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. And it’s compatible with most cooktops. It’s also a very affordable alternative to higher-end pots. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe.
Pros:
• Budget-friendly, yet, durable
• Distributes heat evenly
• Strong, riveted handles
• Durable lids withstand heat up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Suits most cooktops
• Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
• Some users say the handles get hot
• Food may stick to the bottom
T-fal B36262 12-Quart Stockpot
The T-fal B36262 12-Quart Stockpot could be another great option if you’re on a budget. It’s a nonstick pot with heavy-gauge aluminum construction which allows constant heat distribution. So, no more hot spots here! Just even cooking.
What makes this cooking pot even more likable is just how lightweight it is. This means it will be easier to handle without the added weight from the material. Aside from that, its sturdy handles make it simple to use. The handles stay cool over high heat and are comfy to grip.
This stock pot also has a durable transparent lid that lets you keep an eye on the cooking process. The lid also prevents overcooking of your food by allowing the steam to pass through the tiny hole.
The only concern users have with this pot is that its surface is prone to scratching. It’s nonstick both on the exterior and interior, so it entails careful handling. Other than that, it’s a great standard-size pot for your gumbo specialty.
Pros:
• Lightweight yet durable
• Budget-friendly
• Distributes heat evenly
• Comfy and easy to grip handles
• Prevents overcooking
Cons:
• Smaller capacity
• Lightweight may feel flimsy
• Prone to scratches
Choosing the Best Pot for Gumbo
There’s a myriad of stockpots to choose from. You can also pick from a range of materials and sizes. But if you want to know what makes a good pot for cooking gumbo, refer to the buying guide below.
Materials
As I’ve mentioned above, stockpots come in a range of materials. When you buy a pot, ensure it’s not made from a thin-gauge material. Otherwise, it can wear out quickly, then you’ll end up needing to buy another one. Also, some soups and stews can take hours to make, so make sure you choose one with a thick bottom. A thin bottom can burn rather than cook it, even when you constantly stir it.
Most people tend to lean towards pots with nonstick coating for easy cleaning. But nonstick pots don’t always conduct heat well. If you want a nonstick pot, pick one with an aluminum base. Some materials have naturally non-stick properties, although they may still need to require seasoning.
Cast iron is a gumbo-friendly, strong, and classic cooking material. But you need to make sure to season it first before use. Cast iron stock pots have great heat conductivity and are easy to clean.
Stainless steel is also durable and can withstand daily cooking needs. It’s one of the most common materials among cookware because of its conductivity. cast iron pots don’t require the same level of maintenance as cast iron. But when it comes to cleaning, they can be more difficult.
Size, capacity, and shape
Pots have varying sizes and shapes. If you’re cooking for a larger group, you may look for a bigger pot to accommodate a greater amount of liquid and ingredients. The largest pot I’ve seen has a whopping 60-quart capacity. But the ones on my list should suffice if you’re not hosting a party.
For small meals, a 12 or 16-quart pot should suffice. Keep in mind that bigger gumbo pots mean having to spare ample space in your cupboard. Bulky pots can also make cleaning harder.
Stockpots with shallow sides and a lid that fits snugly are a preferable option. Pots with straight sides also provide superior heat conductivity, easy stirring, and cleaning. But certain stockpots have contoured shapes that don’t affect the quality. Just like the one I’ve added to this list.
Taller pots hold more liquids on your food. Because of the towering structure, the diameter is reduced, allowing less evaporation, which retains the liquid on your food.
Lids
The best pot for gumbo has a tight and durable lid. Moisture and heat can quickly exit the pots if the lid isn’t secure enough, leaving you with an undercooked pot of gumbo. You’d want the lid to be tight-fitting so it can seal in moisture and cook the food properly. Tempered glass lids are ideal for keeping track of the cooking process.
Handles
It’s also important to look into the pot’s handles since they tend to get broken easily. Make sure the pot you’re going to buy has strong, riveted handles. Looking into the handles’ material will determine its durability.
Ergonomics is also essential, so endure that the pot has handles that are comfy to hold. Such handles let you hold the pot firmly, without it slipping out of your hands. Handles with silicone are also a great choice for a nicer, more secure grip.
Heat conductivity
Heat transfer is associated with conductivity. You have to ensure that the pot’s lid and handles are not as hot as the base. I suggest you opt for one with superior heat conductivity. It guarantees that heat is distributed evenly throughout your pan. It’s a critical key for consistently and safely cooking your beloved gumbo.
Ease of cleaning
Certain pots demand the use of specific dishwashing agents. Other pots you can’t even put in the dishwasher. A pot that prohibits you from using your dishwasher, no matter how durable it is, won’t be helpful if you’re feeling lazy.
Lucky for you, manufacturers have been aware that most households now have dishwashers. You can always find dishwasher-safe stockpots in the market.
Weight
When picking up a gumbo pot, there must be a proper ratio. If you want a pot that’s easy to handle or maneuver, ensure that the pot you’re getting is considerably lightweight. It will be easier for you to transfer the gumbo to your bowl.
But many pots can be a bit too lightweight that sometimes they can give a bit of a cheap feel to them. That’s why it’s ideal to get a pan with a perfect balance of heaviness and maneuverability.
What’s Jambalaya?
Jambalaya is a rice dish. Much like gumbo, the main ingredients in jambalayas include onion, celery, and green bell pepper. The rice, meat, and vegetables are then added to the mix. Local chefs cook the rice in jambalaya in the same pot as all the other ingredients, whereas gumbo has always been served over rice.
Gumbo and jambalaya are distinguished by the presence of rice. Gumbo should be served with more soup than rice, but not be served as gravy. Jambalaya, just like gumbo, also has Cajun and Creole variations.
The jambalaya’s origins are just as intriguing as the gumbo’s. It could be that Spanish inhabitants in New Orleans made it in an endeavor to mimic the classic paella. Spaniards have likely swapped tomatoes for the saffron in the classic Spanish rice dish.
Cajun vs. Creole
While both dishes are great, Creole gumbo and Cajun gumbo are a hot argument in Louisiana. Tomatoes, shrimp, and black roux are the common ingredients in Creole gumbos, as are okra and filé powder — a spice derived from pulverized leaves of sassafras trees.
Cajun gumbo, on the other hand, is made without tomato, and it typically includes chicken. It’s also not unusual for both Creole and Cajun gumbos to have meats like ham or sausages. There’s no better variation than the other here. It all comes down to personal taste. You can always tweak your gumbo, just like you would with other gumbo recipes.
Best Gumbo Pot FAQs
What is the best pot to cook gumbo in?
Seasoned cast iron pot offers high heat conductivity for preparing Louisiana’s favorite food. And since it’s a tough material, you can use cast iron on many heat sources. It’s also easy to clean and less likely for your food to stick.
Can you cook gumbo in a stainless steel pot?
Cast iron is a gumbo-friendly, durable, and reliable cooking material. But stainless steel is also strong enough to withstand a lot of use.
Can you make a roux in a stainless steel pot?
Stainless steel is a great alternative to a nonstick since you’ll need a metal whisk to make the roux. Unlike stainless steel, nonstick pans are prone to chipping and damage. Especially when in contact with metal utensils.
Is gumbo supposed to be thick or soupy?
Gumbo has a viscous consistency which makes it a considerably thicker soup than a basic soup. You can achieve the ideal consistency for your gumbo by making a roux, which is made by heating flour and oil in a pan until the mixture thickens.
Alternatively, you can make your gumbo creamier with a file. It’s a powdered dried sassafras leaves used to thicken gumbo.
Conclusion
We all have our preferences when it comes to picking cookware that’s up for the task of handling a variety of dishes, not just gumbo. I hope you’ve found the best pot for gumbo, and make sure to check out the latest price and discounts for these fantastic stockpots on my list. Good luck!
