Do you cook pasta at least once a week? Then a special cooking pot will probably really pay off for you. Not because it's trendy, but because it saves you time, dishes and effort. Thanks to the pasta pot insert or a smart lid, you can drain water safely and conveniently, without spills and without the need for additional equipment.
The pasta pot also doesn't take up unnecessary space in the kitchen. When you remove the pasta pot insert from it, you get a fully-fledged cooking pot in which you can cook vegetables, broth, potatoes and dumplings.
In short – if pasta isn't an exceptional event in your kitchen, this type of pot is a sensible investment that makes sense.
Pasta pot: necessity or game changer?
Quality Pasta Pots
What makes a pasta pot special?
At first glance, it looks like a standard cooking pot, but it conceals a clever detail that every pasta lover will appreciate – an integrated colander or internal perforated insert. Thanks to this smart solution:
- You can safely and easily drain water, without needing to use a separate colander,
- You minimise the risk of scalding, because you don't handle hot water at all,
- You save time and washing up, because you don't need anything other than this cooking pot,
- you'll get perfect results, as the pasta cooks evenly because it always has enough space and water.
- and you'll also get a versatile helper that can also be used for cooking vegetables, dumplings or even seafood.
What to consider when choosing a pasta pot?
Pot volume
It is generally recommended to use 1 litre of water for every 100g of pasta.
For normal home cooking, a cooking pot with a volume of 4-5 litres is perfectly sufficient.
If you often cook larger portions or host visitors, go for a larger model - ideally around 6 litres or more.
For normal home cooking, a cooking pot with a volume of 4-5 litres is perfectly sufficient.
If you often cook larger portions or host visitors, go for a larger model - ideally around 6 litres or more.
Material
Pasta pots are, in the vast majority of cases, made from stainless steel. And no wonder - stainless steel is strong, durable and works perfectly with high temperatures. When choosing, be sure to check whether the cooking pot has a sandwich base, i.e. a base made of several layers with an aluminium or copper core. This ensures:
- even heat distribution across the entire base, so the water starts to boil faster,
- energy saving, because the heat is retained better,
- stability on the hob - the solid base won't warp even during intense cooking.
Suitable for induction hobs and dishwashers
Before buying, make sure the cooking pot is compatible with the type of hob you use at home - especially if you cook on an induction hob, where a magnetic base is required. Most stainless steel cooking pots have this feature, but it's not always the case.
We also recommend checking whether the cooking pot is dishwasher safe - this will make everyday maintenance easier and save you time.
We also recommend checking whether the cooking pot is dishwasher safe - this will make everyday maintenance easier and save you time.
Everything you need for perfect pasta:
Let's compare
Cooking pot with colander insert or with spout in the lid?
When choosing a pasta pot, you'll come across two main types: pots with an internal colander insert and pots with a spout in the lid. Both options are practical - it just depends on what suits you best.
Pots with a colander
Pots with a colander insert are ideal for those who often cook larger quantities of pasta. The inserted colander is simply pulled out with the contents – the pasta remains safely inside, the water drains away, and you can manage everything without decanting and without additional cookware. This type is practical, convenient and popular with families or those who cook often.
Pots with spouts
Pots with spouts in the lid have the advantage of being compact – they don't have any extra parts, so they don't take up too much space in the cupboard or dishwasher. The lid has an integrated sieve and a special lock, which keeps the lid firmly in place when draining. This system is particularly suitable for smaller portions and quick, everyday cooking.
Do you prefer a regular pot? Choose from the best:
Best pasta pots
When choosing a pasta pot, it pays to invest in tried and tested brands that combine precision craftsmanship, thoughtful design and long service life. The best include:
Alessi – a leader in design that transforms even ordinary cooking into an aesthetic experience. They offer pots that catch the eye at first glance and won't disappoint in everyday use.
WMF – German quality with an emphasis on functionality, durability and easy maintenance. The perfect choice for those looking for a reliable helper every day.
ZWILLING – a brand with a long tradition, based on precise craftsmanship and clever details, such as sturdy handles or perfectly sealing pot lids.
Alessi – a leader in design that transforms even ordinary cooking into an aesthetic experience. They offer pots that catch the eye at first glance and won't disappoint in everyday use.
WMF – German quality with an emphasis on functionality, durability and easy maintenance. The perfect choice for those looking for a reliable helper every day.
ZWILLING – a brand with a long tradition, based on precise craftsmanship and clever details, such as sturdy handles or perfectly sealing pot lids.
FAQ
Most frequently asked questions
Is a pasta pot really necessary when I already have a colander at home?
A pasta pot isn't essential, but it greatly simplifies cooking. Thanks to the integrated insert or spout, you'll save time and washing up, and avoid the risk of scalding yourself when draining hot water.
Can I cook other things in a pasta cooking pot?
Yes, definitely. Most of these cooking pots are fully functional for everyday cooking. They are suitable for stocks, vegetables, potatoes, dumplings or seafood, for example. Just remove the insert and you have a classic cooking pot.
How big a cooking pot do I need for a family of four?
A cooking pot with a volume of 5-6 litres is usually sufficient. As a guideline, allow 1 litre of water for every 100g of pasta, so this size is ideal when preparing larger portions.
Are all pasta cooking pots suitable for induction hobs?
Not all of them are. If you're cooking on an induction hob, make sure the cooking pot has a magnetic (induction) base – you'll find this information in the product description.
Can pasta cooking pots be washed in the dishwasher?
Most good quality models can, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions. If washing in the dishwasher is important to you, check this feature before purchasing.