Your Guide to Stockpot Sizes
Discover common stockpot sizes and when to use them.
Stockpots are a must-have in any kitchen and are most commonly used for cooking large amounts of liquid-based dishes. Whether you are cooking chili, making soup, or simply boiling a large portion of pasta, choosing the right stockpot size is essential for a seamless cooking experience. This guide explores common stockpot sizes and the different culinary scenarios for which they are best suited.
Tip!
Read our guide What Is a Stockpot? to learn more about the features, materials, and other basics of stockpots.
Stockpot Sizes
6 Quarts
A common stockpot for everyday use is 6 qt. With this size, you can cook 12 servings of your dish, enough to serve a small group of people. 6 qt. stockpots are mainly used for boiling pasta or making smaller portions of soup. This is a good size option because it is small enough to store and clean easily while also having the capacity for basic cooking needs.
Tip!
If you live alone or with a partner, you could opt for an even smaller stockpot. They come as small as 2 qt.!
8 Quarts
For a mid-size stockpot, an 8 qt. pot is a great option. With the capacity to make 16 servings, this soup pot size is better equipped to serve a larger group of people – great if you enjoy hosting or have a big family. In addition to cooking large portions of pasta, chili, or soup, 8 qt. pots are recommended when making chicken or vegetable stock.
Tip!
Stockpot sizes are determined by their capacity at the brim, but leave at least a few inches of space at the top so your liquid does not spill over.
12 Quarts
Typically, the largest stockpot size for regular cooking is 12 qt. You may opt for this pot size when cooking for a large group, as it can make up to 24 servings. 12 qt. stockpots are commonly used for boiling corn on the cob, steaming lobster, and making beef stock.
Tip!
Looking for an elegant way to serve your soup? Check out our guide What Is a Tureen? for some stylish serving tips.
16 Quarts
Outside of everyday cooking, stockpots have other household uses – mostly notably, canning! An important step in the canning process is to submerge the jars in boiling water to create a tight seal. A 16 qt. stockpot is an ideal size for this task because of its large liquid capacity.
Tip!
Dive into the world of canning with our guide How to Can Tomatoes at Home and put your 16 qt. stockpot to use.
Other Sizes
While stockpots come in even larger sizes (32 qt. and up), these pots are mainly used in commercial spaces like restaurant kitchens and breweries. When choosing the right size stockpot for your kitchen, take into consideration your cooking needs, storage space, and stovetop size.
