9 Best Pasta Pots with Built In Strainers (November 2026)
The best pasta pots with built in strainers include the Tramontina Signature Stainless Steel Pasta Strainer Insert for upgrading an 8-quart pot, the Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel for most everyday kitchens, and the Cook N Home 12 Quart Stainless Steel for large pasta batches.
On this page (5 sections)
The best pasta pot with built in strainer for most kitchens is the Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel, because it combines an 8-quart stockpot with a pasta insert, steamer insert and tempered glass lid. That mix handles several jobs without a separate colander.
Choose the Tramontina insert if you already own a compatible pot. Choose a locking-lid model when you want to drain directly from the pot.
We compared draining lids, removable inserts, capacities and materials across the picks below. A built-in lid keeps food in the pot while water pours out, while an insert lifts food from the water and can double as a steamer.
Capacity shapes daily usefulness. A smaller pot is easier to store and lift, while a larger pot gives spaghetti, vegetables and soup more room for water to move.
Material matters for cleaning and heating. Stainless steel bodies are sturdy and dishwasher safe in these listings, while ceramic-coated aluminum adds a nonstick surface for easier release.
Cooktop compatibility is another practical filter. Many picks work across gas, electric and induction, but match the listing to the burners you actually use.
Handling deserves attention when the pot is full of hot water. Locking lids, sturdy insert handles and insulated grips change how safe draining feels.
If you are comparing larger cookware types, our guide to What Is the Difference Between a Stockpot and a Dutch Oven? explains which shape fits boiling and other jobs. That background can help you decide whether a tall stockpot format suits your kitchen.
The picks are organized by use rather than brand alone. Read for draining style first, then check capacity and storage space.
Smaller locking-lid pots may suit crowded cabinets or modest portions. Larger sets earn their space when you cook for a crowd or steam vegetables often.
Use the comparisons to narrow the field to two or three options. Then measure cabinet and stovetop space before you buy.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for upgrading an 8-quart potTramontina Signature Stainless Steel Pasta Strainer Insert
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for most everyday kitchensCook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Check itGOTHAM STEEL 5 Qt Stock Pot Multipurpose
Best for compact locking-lid draining - 5
Check itCooler Concepts Stainless Steel Pasta Pot with Strainer
Best for a tall, narrow footprint - 6
Check itRorence 3.7 Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot
Best for small portions - 7
Check itROSSETTO 8.5QT Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid
Best for large nonstick meals - 8
Check itACTIV CUISINE 8.5qt Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid
Best for easy cleanup - 9
Check itGOTHAM STEEL 8 Qt Stainless Steel Stock
Best for an 8-quart steel pot
The best pasta pot with built in strainer for each kitchen
The best choice depends on whether you want a complete set, a locking lid or a removable insert. Capacity also matters because a compact pot is easier to store, while a larger pot gives pasta more room to cook.
Tramontina Signature Stainless Steel Pasta Strainer Insert: Best for upgrading an 8-quart pot
- 18/10 stainless steel
- Fits the Tramontina Signature 8-quart stock pot
- Precision-perforated basket
- Dishwasher safe
This insert turns a compatible 8-quart stock pot into a pasta cooker or steamer. Its stainless steel basket lifts food from the water instead of requiring a separate colander.
Pros
- 18/10 stainless steel
- Useful for pasta and steaming
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- It is an insert, not a complete pot
- Verify interior dimensions before buying
The Tramontina Signature Stainless Steel Pasta Strainer Insert adds straining and steaming to a compatible pot. It is made from 18/10 stainless steel and is designed for the Tramontina Signature 8-quart stock pot.
The basket has precision perforations for drainage and heat circulation. Water moves away from pasta quickly, and steam can reach vegetables or seafood in a smaller amount of water.
Its sturdy handles help when lifting food from hot water, and the insert is dishwasher safe. A secure grip matters most with a heavy load, helping you move the basket without tipping.
This suits you if you already have an 8-quart stock pot and want an insert instead of another set. You avoid buying a second pot and keep your same routine.
Check your pot's interior dimensions before ordering. The fit is tailored to the Tramontina model, with compatibility across many standard 8-quart pots.
As a steamer, it suits corn on the cob, vegetables and seafood as well as noodles. That range makes it more versatile than a colander.
The trade-off is that this purchase is an insert only. If your current pot is worn or incompatible, a complete set may be the better spend.
Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel: Best for most everyday kitchens
- 8-quart stockpot
- Pasta insert
- Vegetable steamer insert
- Tempered glass lid
This 4-piece set covers pasta, steaming and regular boiling in one 8-quart pot. Its encapsulated aluminum bottom is designed for even heat distribution.
Pros
- Complete 4-piece set
- Induction compatible
- Tempered glass lid
Cons
- Heavier than smaller pots
- Takes more storage space than a single pot
The Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel is the best complete set for most everyday kitchens. It includes an 8-quart stockpot, vegetable steamer insert, stainless steel pasta insert and tempered glass lid.
The polished stainless steel body has an encapsulated aluminum bottom for even heat distribution. That layered base helps the pot heat more evenly than a thin single layer, which can matter when you boil a large volume of water.
The pot is induction compatible and works on gas, electric, glass, ceramic and halogen cooktops. That range makes it a safer choice for households with different stovetops or plans to move homes.
Use the pasta insert when you want to lift noodles from the water, or use the steamer insert for vegetables and seafood. Each insert gives you a different way to cook, so you can choose based on the texture you want.
The tempered glass lid has a steam vent, so you can view food while it cooks. Clear lids reduce the need to lift and release steam, and the vent helps manage moisture during simmering or steaming.
This set gives you more cooking options than a single pot with a draining lid. It also needs more storage space, so measure your cabinet before choosing it.
Dishwasher safe care adds convenience, though drying the polished steel promptly can help keep the finish bright. Riveted handles add durability for lifting the pot when it is full.
Cook N Home 12 Quart Stainless Steel: Best for large pasta batches
- 12-quart stockpot
- Pasta insert
- Vegetable steamer insert
- Tempered glass lid
The 12-quart capacity gives large households more room for pasta, vegetables and seafood. It uses a stainless steel body with an encapsulated aluminum bottom.
Pros
- Largest capacity here
- Includes pasta and steamer inserts
- Induction compatible
Cons
- Heavier at 9.3 lb
- Needs more cabinet and stovetop space
The Cook N Home 12 Quart Stainless Steel is the best choice for large pasta batches. Its 12-quart capacity gives more room than the 8-quart set, with a pasta insert, steamer insert and tempered glass lid.
The stainless steel body has an encapsulated aluminum bottom for even heat distribution. Even heating helps bring a larger volume of water to a boil and keep cooking steady.
It works on induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic and halogen cooktops, and is oven safe up to 400°F. That range adds flexibility for recipes that start on the stove and finish in the oven.
Choose this size when you often cook for a crowd or need room for large amounts of vegetables, seafood or pasta. The extra space helps you steam a big batch rather than cook in rounds.
The deeper steamer insert can hold many vegetables or proteins. Watch water levels so food does not sit in too much liquid.
At 9.3 lb, it is the heaviest pot in this roundup. A full 12-quart pot will be much heavier to move, so plan storage and lifting carefully.
This suits large households more than small kitchens. If storage is tight, the 8-quart version may be easier to live with.
GOTHAM STEEL 5 Qt Stock Pot Multipurpose: Best for compact locking-lid draining
- 5-quart capacity
- Ceramic nonstick coating
- Twist and lock handles
- Two straining sizes
This compact pot drains through its locking lid, so pasta can go from stove to sink without a separate colander. Its ceramic-coated aluminum body suits smaller portions and everyday cooking.
Pros
- Locking strainer lid
- Two straining sizes
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Smaller capacity than the 8-quart picks
- Ceramic coating needs careful utensil choices
The GOTHAM STEEL 5 Qt Stock Pot Multipurpose is the best compact option with a locking strainer lid. Its 5-quart capacity suits smaller meals, and twist and lock handles hold the lid while you pour.
The ceramic nonstick coating is reinforced with titanium and is free of PFOA, PFOS, lead and cadmium. The triple-coated surface supports food release for pasta, rice and reduced sauces.
It includes two straining sizes for different foods. A finer opening suits smaller foods, while a larger opening drains thicker items more quickly.
You can cook and drain in the same vessel without a separate colander. Boil, lock the lid, carry the pot to the sink and pour, keeping transfers to a minimum.
Smaller capacity is less suitable for large family batches than the 8-quart and 12-quart picks. For a full pound of pasta plus plenty of water, you may feel the limits of 5 quarts.
The aluminum body keeps the pot light at 1.31 kg. That lighter weight can make pouring control easier, especially when both hands are needed.
Care still matters with ceramic coating, despite metal utensil safety in the listing. Gentle cleaning and avoiding empty overheating will help the surface last longer.
For more ceramic options, compare this model with our guide to best ceramic cookware pots.
Cooler Concepts Stainless Steel Pasta Pot with Strainer: Best for a tall, narrow footprint
- 5.5-quart capacity
- 304 stainless steel
- Twist-lock strainer lid
- Induction ready
The tall, narrow shape is intended to hold spaghetti upright while using less counter and cabinet width. Its locking lid drains pasta, vegetables and other boiled foods.
Pros
- 304 stainless steel
- Locking lid
- Works on gas, electric and induction
Cons
- Smaller than large family-size pots
- Metal handles can get hot
The Cooler Concepts Stainless Steel Pasta Pot with Strainer is the best tall, narrow option where width matters. Its 5.5-quart capacity and 9-inch height are intended to hold a full 1 lb box of spaghetti standing up.
The pot uses food-grade 304 stainless steel with a thick base for even heating. A thick base can help maintain a steady boil on gas, electric and induction stovetops.
Its slim footprint saves counter and cabinet width compared with a wide stockpot. That shape may fit compact kitchens or first apartments where burner space is limited.
The twist-lock strainer lid keeps noodles in the pot as water drains. Align the marks, twist until the lid locks, and pour with both hands for better control.
Precision drain holes help separate water from pasta, veggies and other boiled foods. The locking design is intended to reduce slipping from a loose lid.
The pot also works as a small stock pot, boiling pot, soup pot or cooking pot with a lid. That flexibility helps if you want one tall pot for more than pasta night.
The maker notes metal handles can get hot, so use oven mitts when draining. Dishwasher-safe care is listed, and drying promptly helps keep the polished finish bright.
The trade-off is capacity, since 5.5 quarts will not match 8-quart or 12-quart pots for crowds. For everyday spaghetti in a narrow kitchen, the shape is the main appeal.
Rorence 3.7 Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot: Best for small portions
- 3.7-quart capacity
- 18/8 stainless steel
- Glass lid with straining holes
- Pour spouts on both sides
This smaller pot suits limited portions of pasta, noodles, vegetables or seafood. Its glass lid has straining holes, silicone pads and pour spouts for controlled draining.
Pros
- Small capacity for compact kitchens
- Straining glass lid
- Compatible with induction
Cons
- Least capacity in this roundup
- Not designed for large pasta batches
The Rorence 3.7 Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot is the best pick for small portions and compact storage. Its 3.7-quart capacity is the smallest in this group, making it better suited to limited pasta, noodles, vegetables or seafood.
The pot is made from 18/8 stainless steel and has a capsule bottom with an aluminum core for fast, even heating. That construction is designed to heat quickly while keeping the interior food safe and resistant to rust or corrosion.
It works on gas, electric and induction cooktops. Compatibility across those surfaces makes it easier to use in different kitchens without worrying about the base.
Its transparent glass lid has straining holes and silicone pads, while pour spouts sit on both sides of the rim for right- or left-handed pouring. Pressing the silicone pads and tipping gently is the method described for draining without a colander.
Measurement marks inside the pot also help with adding water. Those marks take some guesswork out of filling the pot for pasta or noodles.
The silicone handle design is intended to stay cool for safety. Riveted stainless steel handles add durability, though you should still test the heat before gripping with bare hands.
Choose it when a 5-quart or larger pot would be more cookware than you need. The small size also makes it easier to store in a crowded cabinet.
For capacity help, see How Do You Measure the Capacity of a Pot in Quarts?.
ROSSETTO 8.5QT Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid: Best for large nonstick meals
- 8.5-quart capacity
- Cast aluminum construction
- Ceramic nonstick coating
- Built-in strainer lid
The 8.5-quart size gives families room for pasta, soup and boiled vegetables. Its ceramic-coated cast aluminum body combines a built-in draining lid with insulated handles.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Built-in strainer lid
- Suitable for induction
Cons
- Larger than compact options
- Nonstick coating requires care
The ROSSETTO 8.5QT Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid is the best large nonstick option in this roundup. Its 8.5-quart cast aluminum body has a ceramic nonstick coating and a built-in strainer lid.
The integrated lid locks while you drain pasta or vegetables, so you do not need a separate colander. That system keeps food in the pot while water leaves, which can simplify cleanup after a large meal.
The pot is suitable for induction and includes insulated handles for a more secure grip. Insulated handles may feel more comfortable than bare metal when you lift a full pot from the stove.
Its size works for pasta, soup, stews and boiled vegetables. The 8.5-quart capacity gives family meals room to cook without the footprint of a 12-quart stockpot.
The ceramic coating is free of PFOA, PFOS, lead and cadmium in the product details. Cast aluminum construction is listed for lightweight durability and even heat distribution.
A built-in spatula holder on the lid is an extra detail for keeping a utensil within reach. That feature may help keep counters cleaner while you stir or check food.
The ceramic coating may simplify cleanup, but you should still follow the care instructions for nonstick cookware. Gentle utensils and avoiding overheating an empty pot are sensible habits.
The main trade-off is size, since this pot needs more cabinet and stovetop space than compact picks. For large nonstick meals, the capacity and draining lid are the main reasons to choose it.
ACTIV CUISINE 8.5qt Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid: Best for easy cleanup
- 8.5-quart capacity
- Ceramic coating inside and outside
- Two straining sizes
- Tempered glass lid
This 8.5-quart multipot uses a ceramic-coated aluminum body and a locking strainer lid. The tempered glass lid lets you monitor cooking without lifting it.
Pros
- Two straining sizes
- Dishwasher safe
- Compatible with all stovetops
Cons
- Large footprint
- The product data does not specify the lid material as stainless steel
The ACTIV CUISINE 8.5qt Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid is the best choice when you want a large pot with a tempered glass lid. Its 8.5-quart aluminum body has ceramic coating inside and outside.
The strainer lid turns to drain water and offers two straining sizes. That choice lets you match the opening to the food, from pasta to thicker items that need a wider drain.
The tempered glass lets you monitor cooking without lifting the lid, while the Bakelite handle is designed to stay cool during cooking. Keeping the lid closed can help retain heat and moisture while you check progress.
This pot works on gas, electric, induction and ceramic cookers. Wide cooktop compatibility makes it practical for many kitchens, including induction setups.
The ceramic paint is described as free of PFOA, PFOS, lead and cadmium. Coating both inside and outside may also make the exterior easier to wipe clean after splashes.
It is dishwasher safe, which can make cleanup easier after cooking large meals. The listing also notes the coating can withstand metal utensils, though gentle care still helps any nonstick surface.
The 8.5-quart size suits pasta, soup and other family batches. It also requires a large cabinet and enough burner space, so measure before you decide.
Compared with insert sets, this pot focuses on lid draining rather than lifting a basket. That style is simpler if you prefer pouring over lifting.
GOTHAM STEEL 8 Qt Stainless Steel Stock: Best for an 8-quart steel pot
- 8-quart capacity
- Stainless steel construction
- Twist and lock handles
- Two straining sizes
This 8-quart stainless steel pot pairs a built-in strainer lid with twist and lock handles. It is sized for pasta, rice, soup and other stovetop foods.
Pros
- 8-quart capacity
- Built-in strainer lid
- Induction compatible
Cons
- Fewer included pieces than the Cook N Home sets
- Heavier than the 5-quart Gotham Steel option
The GOTHAM STEEL 8 Qt Stainless Steel Stock Pot is the best Gotham Steel choice when you want an 8-quart stainless steel body. It combines a built-in strainer lid with twist and lock handles for draining pasta, rice, soup and other foods.
The pot includes two straining sizes and works with induction cooktops. Two sizes help you drain fine and thicker foods without letting food slip out during the pour.
It is dishwasher safe and oven safe, according to the product details. Those care options can suit busy households, though drying stainless steel promptly helps preserve the polished look.
Choose it over the 5-quart Gotham Steel model when you need more capacity. The larger size gives pasta and vegetables more room to cook and move in the water.
Choose the Cook N Home 8-quart set instead if you want a separate pasta insert and vegetable steamer insert. An insert system lifts food out, while this pot drains through the lid.
The stainless steel construction suits people who prefer steel over coated aluminum for stovetop cooking. It also avoids relying on a nonstick surface for pasta release.
At 8 quarts, it sits in the middle range for family meals. That size is easier to store than a 12-quart pot but still large enough for regular batches.
The twist and lock handles are central to the draining method. A quick twist locks the lid, so you should confirm the lock before tilting a full pot over the sink.
Should you choose a strainer lid or a pasta insert?
A strainer lid is best when you want to drain food without moving it to another container. A pasta insert is better when you want to lift noodles or vegetables from the water and reuse the insert for steaming.
Locking lids need a secure grip before you tilt a full pot. Insert systems require a compatible pot and enough room to lift the basket safely.
Think about your sink and serving area before you choose. A locking lid keeps everything in one vessel, while an insert needs space to lift and set down the basket.
Steaming ability is a key difference. An insert can sit above a small amount of water, while a strainer lid is mainly built for draining after boiling.
Cleanup also differs. A lid system means fewer pieces to wash, while an insert adds a basket that must be cleaned and stored.
Food type can influence the choice. Long pasta may be easier to lift with an insert, while rice or soup may suit a lid drain depending on hole size.
Weight matters when either system is full of hot water. Check handles, grip and your ability to lift safely.
Storage should be part of the decision too. Inserts need room to nest or stand, while locking lids need space for the handle mechanism.
Our roundup of best pasta pot with strainer lid focuses on integrated lids, including the draining style used by several picks here. That guide can help if pouring from the pot is your priority.
If you steam vegetables often, an insert set may earn its extra pieces. If you mostly boil pasta and drain, a locking lid may be simpler.
Neither style is better for every kitchen. Match the draining method to the foods you cook most often.
Also consider who uses the pot at home. A simple twist-lock lid may be easier for some users, while a lift-out basket may feel more intuitive to others.
Measure your cabinet before you commit to a set with inserts. Nested pieces still take up volume.
Finally, check compatibility carefully for inserts. A basket that does not fit well will wobble or sit too low.
What capacity works for your pasta routine?
A 3.7-quart pot suits smaller portions, while 5 to 5.5 quarts gives more room for everyday pasta. An 8 to 8.5-quart pot is a useful middle ground for family meals.
Choose 12 quarts when you regularly cook large batches or want extra room for steaming vegetables and seafood. Measure your cabinet opening and stovetop space before choosing a large pot.
Capacity is about total volume, not just the amount of pasta. Water needs space to boil and move, and pasta needs room to separate as it cooks.
A pot that is too small can lead to foaming over the side or uneven cooking. Leaving headroom helps you manage a rolling boil more safely.
Smaller pots heat a smaller volume of water more quickly and are easier to lift when full. That can be a real advantage for one or two servings.
Larger pots are more forgiving for big batches because food has more space to circulate. They also work better for steaming a large quantity of vegetables at once.
Shape affects how capacity feels in use. A tall, narrow pot can hold spaghetti upright, while a wider pot may spread food across the bottom.
Do not confuse stated capacity with the amount of water you should add. Pasta needs room to move, and a pot should not be filled to the rim when boiling.
Cabinet dimensions deserve a careful check before you buy a large pot. Height, width and door clearance determine whether it will store easily.
Stovetop space matters just as much. A pot that overhangs the burner or crowds nearby pans may be harder to use safely.
Weight when full is another concern. An 8-quart pot filled with water and pasta will be heavy, and a 12-quart pot will be heavier still.
Matching capacity to your usual serving size is the simplest guide. Buy for the meals you cook most weeks, not only for occasional gatherings.
How should you care for a built-in strainer pot?
Stainless steel pots and inserts can usually handle dishwasher cleaning when the details allow it. Dry polished stainless steel promptly after washing if you want to reduce water marks.
Ceramic-coated pots need gentler care than plain stainless steel. Avoid overheating an empty pot, follow the supplied care guidance, and let the pot cool before washing if instructed.
For inserts, check that perforations are clear after washing. Food residue in small holes can affect drainage and make the next use less effective.
Locking lids should be cleaned with attention to the locking parts. Water and residue can collect around seals, grooves and mechanisms if you skip that step.
Ceramic coating care often means being careful with heat and utensils. Even when a listing mentions metal utensil safety, gentle tools and moderate heat are safer habits.
Dishwasher use is listed for many picks here, but hand washing may be gentler for coated surfaces. If you use a dishwasher, avoid overcrowding that could cause pieces to knock.
Glass lids need care to avoid sudden temperature changes. Let a hot lid cool before rinsing in cold water, and check silicone pads for wear.
Handles and grips should be inspected as part of routine care. Silicone pads, Bakelite handles and insulated grips help with safety, but they still need to stay clean and intact.
If you are replacing a lid or mixing pieces, read How Do You Match a Replacement Lid to an Existing Pot? before assuming parts will fit. A similar looking lid may not seal or lock correctly.
Storage also affects care because stacked pots can scratch coatings. Avoid rough stacking to protect finishes.
A consistent routine of washing, drying and checking parts will make any pot easier to use. Care habits matter more over time than any single cleaning method.
Which is the best pasta pot with built in strainer for you?
Pick the Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel if you want the most complete everyday set, including both pasta and steamer inserts. Choose the Tramontina insert if you already own a compatible 8-quart pot.
Pick the GOTHAM STEEL 5 Qt or Cooler Concepts 5.5-quart pot when you prefer a locking lid and smaller footprint. Choose the Cook N Home 12 Quart when large batches matter more than storage space.
The best pasta pot with built in strainer matches your portion size, draining style and cooktop. Measure storage, confirm compatibility for inserts, and choose a capacity you can lift safely when full.
If you want the simplest routine, a locking-lid pot keeps cooking and draining in one vessel. That style reduces transfers and leaves fewer pieces to wash.
If you steam vegetables or seafood often, an insert set may work harder for you. The basket can lift food from water and then serve as a steamer in the same pot.
For compact kitchens, the Rorence 3.7-quart pot or Cooler Concepts tall shape may fit better than a wide stockpot. Smaller capacity is a benefit when storage and counter space are limited.
For large nonstick meals, the ROSSETTO or ACTIV CUISINE 8.5-quart pots offer capacity with ceramic coating. Those suit families who want draining convenience plus easier food release.
For a stainless steel locking-lid pot at family size, the GOTHAM STEEL 8 Qt is the direct pick. It pairs an 8-quart steel body with twist and lock draining.
Check cooktop compatibility before you order. Induction, gas and electric needs can eliminate otherwise good options.
Also check whether you prefer pouring or lifting. That single preference can narrow the list more than brand or finish.
Measure cabinets and burners with actual pot dimensions in mind. A pot you cannot store easily will rarely be the one you reach for.
Finally, choose the capacity you can handle when full of hot water. Safety and comfort matter as much as volume when you drain at the sink.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for upgrading an 8-quart pot
Tramontina Signature Stainless Steel Pasta Strainer Insert
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for most everyday kitchens
Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
What is the best pasta pot with built in strainer for most homes?
The Cook N Home 8 Quart Stainless Steel is the best pasta pot with built in strainer for most homes because it includes an 8-quart stockpot, pasta insert, vegetable steamer insert and tempered glass lid. Choose a smaller locking-lid pot when storage space or portion size matters more.
Is a strainer lid better than a pasta insert?
A strainer lid lets you drain food while it stays in the pot, which can reduce transfers and cleanup. A pasta insert lifts noodles from the water and can also work as a steamer basket.
Choose the lid style for pouring control, or the insert style for lifting food out.
What size pasta pot should you buy?
Choose about 3.7 to 5.5 quarts for small portions and compact kitchens, 8 to 8.5 quarts for general family cooking, and 12 quarts for large batches. Leave room for water and movement, and compare the pot's footprint with your stovetop and cabinet space.
How do you drain pasta without a colander?
Use a pot with a built-in locking strainer lid, or use a glass lid with straining holes and pour spouts. Lock or hold the lid as designed, keep both hands on the pot when needed, and use oven mitts if the handles or lid may be hot.
