Buy quality cookware during holiday sales for major discounts

Due to holiday sales, prices are low. Consumer Reports tested several cookware sets to find out which is the best bang for your buck.

Cuisinart's green gourmet hard anodized set seared the non-stick competition and earned top ratings. It's $250.

But you might need more than just non-stick.

"There are definitely times you want uncoated cookware, like stainless steel or cast iron, especially if you're searing food. You can't really get non-stick cookware hot, but you can sear in cast iron and stainless steel," said Paul Hope, a Consumer Reports home editor.

The top-rated uncoated All Clad set costs $600. Since sets can be so expensive, Consumer Reports suggests buying pots and pans individually.

Top scores went to the $115 All-Clad tri-ply stainless steel fry pan. Consumer Reports also suggests considering Red Copper non-stick aluminum, which is a "best buy" at just $20.

And be sure to choose the right cookware for your range.

Consumer Reports says for a smooth top, go with a flat base on your pan.

For gas ranges, go with solid metal that has the same thickness throughout.