Review of Simply Calphalon Nonstick 5 Qt. Chili Pot

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $39.99
Sale Price: $33.99
Today's Bonus: 15% Off

I think Calphalon has missed a bet in attaching the label "chili" to this versatile pot, because it suggests that its best use is limited to making chili. But mine is well-loved and used almost daily for cooking virtually everything -chili, yes, but also soup, sauteed fresh veggies, simmer-all-day pasta sauce, pot roast, ETC. I also use it when I need a high-sided skillet. The heating is very even, making it a lovely choice for carmelizing onions and other vegetables, as well as meat. I love this pot so much that I have given a number of them as gifts.

Calphalon calls another pan, sort of a flat-bottomed wok, its "everyday pan." I have that one, too, but it has drifted to the bottom of the stack because I DON'T use it everyday. They should have applied that label to this pot instead instead of the "chili" label.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

We've owned this pot for a little over a year now. The non-stick coating works VERY well, making cleanup a cinch! Also, it's the perfect size for cooking dinner for our family of four.

The one problem we've had with it is the durability of the non-stick coating. We first noticed some of the coating flaking off a few months back. Since then, the flaking has accelerated to the point that we're not using the pot anymore. We have always used wooden or plastic spoons with it, so we don't believe it is a result of neglectful use.

Best Deals for Simply Calphalon Nonstick 5 Qt. Chili Pot

I purchased this chili pot in hopes of having a large vessel for cooking pasta, soup, and chili. I am a little disappointed at how short it is. It is barely taller than a frying pan. My video shows what I mean. I placed some common items in it so you can get a feel for the size before buying.

The side handles get very hot and there isn't a hole in the lid to help steam escape. Two more drawbacks.

It's OK but not what I was hoping for.

Honest reviews on Simply Calphalon Nonstick 5 Qt. Chili Pot

After years of everyday use, I wore out my Calphalon 8785 pot despite my best efforts, the interior became scratched, and the exterior lost its anodized look. I'll keep it for backup, but it is officially retired.

I prefer the steel lid of the old pot because the handle is part of the lid; the new pot affixes the handle to the glass lid with big rivets. Structurally sound, no doubt, but a weak spot.

I don't see any real benefit to a glass lid; I don't watch the food cook, and if I do, I'm busy stirring a roux or sautéing, so the lid is off. Not a selling point for me.

Functionally, the pots are similar. The non-stick surface releases foods, but I cannot use metal utensils to stir or scrape. I use olive wood utensils out of habit, but the other members of my family are not always so conscientious.

The price is right, and this is a fine product. I have no idea why it is labeled "chili pot" it is too small for chili made in my kitchen.

I look forward to another decade of daily use with my new Calphalon pan.

Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Simply Calphalon Nonstick 5 Qt. Chili Pot

We have a stock pot that is a decent size, but it is narrow and tall so I wanted one that would be easier for me to work with. This pot does the trick! I love it! It cleans easily and allows me to make the amount that I want/need for our family. I recommend it highly.