Steaming is one of the healthiest ways to cook, and having the right steamer basket makes all the difference. Whether you love fresh veggies, dumplings, or seafood, a reliable basket helps lock in nutrients and flavor. Below, I’ve reviewed the 5 best steamer baskets to make your cooking effortless and delicious.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Premium Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer Basket
If you want a simple, durable, and budget-friendly steamer, this stainless steel vegetable steamer is a fantastic choice. It fits most pots and expands like a flower, making it perfect for veggies, seafood, and even eggs.
Features:
- Expandable design fits different pot sizes
- Food-grade stainless steel construction
- Folds for compact storage
Why I Like It: It’s versatile, easy to use, and dishwasher safe. I love how it expands to fit almost any pot, saving me from buying multiple steamer sizes.
Why I Didn’t Like It: The legs could be a bit sturdier, and it doesn’t have a handle, so lifting it when hot requires caution.
2. Ninja Foodi Deluxe Steamer Basket
For Ninja Foodi or Instant Pot users, this steamer basket is designed to handle pressure cooking and steaming like a pro. Made from premium stainless steel, it holds a large amount of food without losing shape.
Features:
- Sturdy stainless steel with silicone handles
- Compatible with 6.5qt and 8qt pressure cookers
- Rust-resistant and easy to clean
Why I Like It: The silicone handles make it super easy to remove without burning your hands. It’s also incredibly durable and holds up under pressure cooking.
Why I Didn’t Like It: It’s mainly made for larger cookers, so if you don’t have a Ninja Foodi or Instant Pot, it might not be useful.
3. Silicone Steamer Basket for Instant Pot
This silicone basket is flexible, safe, and a game-changer for pressure cookers. It’s heat resistant, non-stick, and won’t scratch your pot like metal baskets sometimes do.
Features:
- BPA-free food-grade silicone
- Built-in handles for easy lifting
- Heat-resistant up to 450°F
Why I Like It: Cleaning is effortless since food doesn’t stick. I also love that it collapses a little for storage and doesn’t rust.
Why I Didn’t Like It: It may hold less food compared to stainless steel options, and it doesn’t feel as sturdy for heavier items like potatoes.
4. Bamboo Steamer Basket for Dumplings & Veggies
Traditional and stylish, this bamboo steamer is perfect for dumplings, buns, and vegetables. It brings authentic Asian cooking vibes straight to your kitchen.
Features:
- 2-tier natural bamboo design
- Allows steaming multiple dishes at once
- Eco-friendly and lightweight
Why I Like It: The flavor it adds to dumplings is unbeatable. I enjoy being able to steam two different foods at the same time in the double tiers.
Why I Didn’t Like It: Bamboo requires extra care—if not dried properly, it can develop mold. It also doesn’t last as long as stainless steel.
5. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless-Steel Steamer
If you’re looking for a high-quality, long-lasting steamer, Cuisinart delivers. This steamer insert fits perfectly in saucepans, offering reliable steaming for years.
Features:
- Heavy-duty stainless steel with mirror finish
- Riveted handles for safe lifting
- Fits 2–3 quart saucepans
Why I Like It: Extremely durable and dishwasher safe. I love how it feels solid and professional, like something a chef would use.
Why I Didn’t Like It: It’s designed for specific saucepan sizes, so make sure you check compatibility.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best steamer basket depends on your cooking style. Stainless steel models are durable, silicone options are easy to clean, and bamboo brings authenticity. For everyday versatility, I’d recommend the expandable stainless steel steamer, while Foodi or Instant Pot users may prefer silicone or specialized options. Whichever you choose, steaming is a healthier, tastier way to enjoy your meals every day.