6 Best Ladles for Soups and Stews in 2025 — Perfect Scoops Every Time

When selecting ladles for soups and stews in 2025, precision matters—whether it’s the 8-ounce Meekoo stainless steel ladle or the 8-inch Chef Craft model—so you can serve with confidence. Are your tools durable enough to handle heavy, hot liquids without warping or slipping? The right choice—balanced weight, corrosion resistance, and ergonomic grip—ensures seamless serving. Think about what features will elevate your kitchen game, because a great ladle isn’t just a utensil—it’s an essential workhorse, ready for whatever you dish out next.

Super Sturdy Stainless Steel Soup Ladles 3 Pack

If you need a set of sturdy ladles for a busy kitchen or big family dinners, the Super Sturdy Stainless Steel Soup Ladles 3 Pack is a great choice. These ladles are made from strong 18/8 stainless steel, which means they are built to last. Each ladle is about 15 inches long and has an 8-ounce deep bowl. This helps you serve the right amount of soup and keeps spills away. The long handles have grooves for a comfortable grip and easy stirring. They are dishwasher safe and come with a hook for hanging. These tools are strong, practical, and look good in any kitchen.

Best for: chefs, caterers, and home cooks who need reliable, precise, and durable soup ladles for heavy use.

Pros:

• Made from tough, commercial-grade stainless steel for lasting quality
• Deep bowls help with accurate servings and less mess
• Handles are comfortable and give good control

Cons:

• The long handles might be hard to store in small drawers
• Handles can feel thin after long use due to stamped steel construction
• They cost more than plastic ladles, which could matter if you are on a budget

Winco Stainless Steel Ladle, 8-Ounce

The Winco Stainless Steel Ladle, 8-Ounce, is a reliable tool for serving soups and stews. It’s made from 1mm thick stainless steel, which makes it tough and resistant to scratches. The shiny finish stays bright, even after many washes. The bowl holds 8 ounces, making it larger than some people expect. This size helps you serve big portions with fewer dips.

The long handle is great for reaching into deep pots. It has a curved shape that feels comfortable to hold. However, some people might find the edges of the handle a bit rough. The handle is thick enough for steady handling, but it could be better for comfort. Also, rough handling might cause the edges to bend or break over time.

Meekoo Stainless Steel Ladle Soup Handle Ladle (8 oz)

The Meekoo Stainless Steel Ladle is a handy tool for in the kitchen. It can hold up to 8 ounces of soup or sauce. The ladle is made from strong stainless steel, so it won’t break easily. Its smooth surface is safe to touch and easy to clean. The handle is about 15.8 inches long and 1.58 inches wide. It has a pouring rim that makes pouring easier and less messy. The long handle helps keep your hands safe from hot liquids. There’s also a hole in the handle so you can hang it up when you’re done. With over 1,600 reviews, it gets about 4.5 stars, which shows many people like it.

This ladle is great for home cooks and anyone who wants a simple, durable tool for serving soup, sauces, or liquids. It’s easy to use and safe to handle.

Pros:

• Made from sturdy, safe stainless steel that lasts long
• Has a long handle with a pouring rim for easy, controlled pouring
• The handle has a hole so you can hang it up and store it easily

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe; needs hand washing to stay good
• It’s lightweight, so it might not be best for heavy-duty use or in busy kitchens
• Its size might be a little big for small storage spaces or some workplaces

This ladle is simple, practical, and helpful in the kitchen. It makes serving liquids easy and safe.

Chef Craft Select Serving Ladle, 8 inch, Stainless Steel

The Chef Craft Select 8-inch Stainless Steel Ladle is a great tool for serving small amounts of soup, gravy, or sauces. It is made from strong, rust-resistant stainless steel with a shiny mirror finish that looks nice in any kitchen. The scoop of the ladle is flat, which helps you pour the right amount of food easily and neatly. The ladle is lightweight, weighing only 2.4 ounces, so it’s easy to handle, especially if you have smaller hands. The handle is 6 inches long, giving you enough reach without being too long or bulky. You can wash it in the dishwasher, making cleanup simple.

This ladle is perfect for home cooks and hosts who want a durable and stylish tool to serve small portions. It works well for soups, sauces, and casseroles. Keep in mind, it’s not made for large servings or heavy-duty use. The handle might not have much grip, so hold it firmly. Its small size makes it less suited for big servings. Also, the shape of the handle may not be comfortable for serving larger dishes like fried rice.

Best For: people who like to serve small portions of soup, sauces, or casseroles easily and stylishly.

Pros:

• Made from shiny, rust-resistant stainless steel.
• Light and easy to hold, especially for smaller hands.
• Dishwasher safe for quick cleaning.

Cons:

• Handle may feel smooth and lack grip.
• Small size is better for small servings.
• Handle shape might not be best for all tasks, like serving big portions.

Mirro Canning Ladle, 8Oz, Red

The Mirro Canning Ladle, 8Oz, Red, is a sturdy and practical tool. It is good for serving large amounts of soups, stews, and sauces. The ladle is 15 inches long. It has an 8-ounce scoop, so you can easily fill bowls or jars. The body is made of durable nylon. It resists stains, odors, heat, and scratches. The red handle is shaped for a comfortable grip. It works well for both right- and left-handed cooks. The ladle has two spouts, one on each side. This makes pouring easier and less messy. You can put it in the dishwasher to clean it. This tool is built for busy kitchens and heavy use.

Who should use this ladle? It is great for home cooks, canners, and people who need to transfer large amounts of liquid. It is a simple, strong tool that makes serving and filling easier.

Here are the good things about this ladle:

• It holds 8 ounces and is 15 inches long. It can serve large sizes and reach the bottom of big pots.
• Made from tough nylon. It won’t stain, smell, or get damaged by heat.
• The red handle is easy to hold. It has two spouts so you can pour from either side without spilling.

A few points to consider:

• The size makes it a little bulky, so it may not fit in small kitchen drawers.
• Since it is plastic, it may not look as fancy as metal tools.
• It is not for use with very high heat or open flames.

1-Piece Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Ladle

The Vollum 1-Piece Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Ladle is a strong tool for busy kitchens. It is made from shiny, mirror-finish stainless steel, which is tough and durable. The ladle is forged from a single piece of metal, so the bowl and handle won’t come apart, even with heavy use. The handle is 15.1 inches long, making it easy to reach into deep pots. The bowl can hold about 8 ounces, enough for serving soup or sauce. This ladle is built to bend and dent less, so it can handle tough kitchen jobs. Some people might find the long handle less simple to use at home, but it provides strength and reliability. It’s a good choice for restaurants or big kitchens that need a tool to last a long time, especially when serving large portions.

Best For: Professional chefs and busy kitchens that need tough, large ladles that last.

Pros:

• Made from a single piece of stainless steel for strength and safety
• Long handle (15.1 inches) for reaching into deep pots
• High ratings (4.8 out of 5) for quality and performance

Cons:

• Long handle might be harder to handle at home with smaller pots
• Not safe for dishwashers; needs hand washing
• Some users say it bends with very heavy loads, so it might not be good for the hardest tasks

This ladle is built for heavy use and long-lasting performance. It works best in busy places where tools need to stand up to tough work every day.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Ladles for Soups and Stews

Choosing the right ladle isn’t just about picking a pretty handle; it’s about evaluating factors like material durability, which ensures your spoon won’t warp after multiple uses, and safety features that keep you from sneaking hot liquid burns. Size and capacity matter too—do you want a 2-ounce Mini Ladle or a hefty 8-ounce giant? Plus, comfort counts: a handle that’s too short or too slippery could turn a simple task into a splashy mess, so think about storage options and spill control as well.

Material Durability & Safety

When you pick a ladle for soups and stews, you want it to last a long time and be safe to use. The material of the ladle is very important. Choose high-quality stainless steel, like 18/8 or 304-grade. This kind of steel doesn’t rust, stain, or corrode easily. That means no rusty scoops in your food.

Make sure the material is safe for food. It should not leak harmful chemicals into hot liquids. It needs to follow safety rules for kitchen tools. The ladle should be sturdy too. Look for a one-piece or forged design. These won’t bend or crack when you use them a lot.

The surface of the ladle should be smooth and free of burrs. This helps keep it clean and prevents cuts or injuries. It’s also good if it’s heat-resistant. That way, you can put it in the dishwasher without it getting damaged or losing its shape.

A safe and strong ladle is more than just a cooking tool. It’s your reliable helper in the kitchen.

Capacity and Size

A typical kitchen ladle can hold between 8 and 16 ounces of soup, stew, or sauce. The size of the ladle is important because it helps you serve the right amount of food. If you need to serve big, filling portions quickly, a larger ladle—around 14 to 16 ounces—is a good choice. It makes serving faster and easier. But bigger isn’t always better. Large ladles can be hard to handle with delicate or tricky dishes. Smaller ladles—around 8 to 10 ounces—give you more control. You can use them for precise servings or when working with many different ingredients.

The handle length of a ladle is also important. Handles are usually between 12 and 15 inches long. Longer handles help you reach into deep pots and keep your hands away from hot liquids. They also help prevent hot splashes from splattering onto you.

Choosing the right size and handle length makes cooking easier. It helps you serve food cleanly and efficiently. Picking a size that fits your needs makes your work in the kitchen more comfortable and less messy.

Handle Comfort & Length

The handle of a ladle is important because it helps you cook better and safer. A handle that is about 15 inches long makes it easy to reach the bottom of big pots without getting burned or spilling food. Handles that curve or have grooves give you a stronger grip, so your hand gets less tired if you cook for a long time. Thicker, rounded handles feel more comfortable to hold than thin or flat ones, especially when stirring or serving food many times. Some handles have hooks or holes so you can hang the ladle on a hook, but they should be strong enough to hold up through regular use. The best handle helps you control the ladle easily and makes cooking simple and comfortable.

Pouring & Spilling Control

Choosing a good ladle makes cooking easier. Look for one with a deep bowl. It helps hold liquids so they don’t spill everywhere. A nice pouring rim makes it simple to transfer soup or stew cleanly. Long handles keep your hand away from hot liquids and give you more control when pouring from big pots. Some ladles have curved or spouted edges. These help you aim better and prevent splashes. Handles that feel comfortable and fit your grip make it easier to pour with confidence. All these features work together to help you serve food slowly and neatly. They save you time, keep your stove and table clean, and make cooking more fun.

Storage & Hangability Options

Good storage options help keep your ladle safe and your kitchen tidy. Look for ladles with handles that have hooks or holes. These make it easy to hang your ladle on pot rims, hooks, or racks. Hanging your ladle saves space and stops clutter.

The handle length matters. If it’s too short, hanging the ladle can be tricky. If it’s too long, it might bump into other utensils. A handle that is just right makes it easy to hang without problems. Thick or reinforced handles are stronger and better at holding up when hung. They give stability and reduce the chance of dropping the ladle.

Make sure the handle design supports hanging securely. This keeps your ladle in place and avoids accidents. Some ladles come with built-in hooks or loops. These make it easy to organize your tools, especially in a busy kitchen.

Choosing the right hanging features makes storing your ladle simple and quick. It turns a small task into an easy part of your cleaning routine.

Weight & Balance

A good ladle needs to feel just right in your hand. If it’s too heavy or too light, it can be hard to use. A balanced ladle makes scooping and pouring easier. When the weight is spread properly between the bowl and the handle, it feels more stable and comfortable.

Ladles that weigh about 8 to 10 ounces are heavy enough to hold thick stews without spilling. But if they’re too heavy, your hand can get tired, especially if you’re using them a lot. Lighter ladles, around 4 to 6 ounces, are easier to control. They reduce hand fatigue and are good for serving large amounts.

Handle length is also important. Longer handles, about 8 to 12 inches, help you reach deep into big pots without straining your hand. A well-balanced ladle stays steady when you scoop, so dishes don’t spill.

Choosing the right weight and handle length makes cooking easier and more comfortable. When your tools feel just right, you can serve food smoothly and enjoy the process.

Price & Affordability

Ladles for soups and stews cost different amounts. You can find simple plastic ladles for less than five dollars. These are cheap but might break or wear out fast. On the other hand, premium metal ladles can cost over fifty dollars. These last longer and feel better to hold. Choosing a cheaper ladle may save money at first, but you might need to buy another one sooner. A good, durable ladle may cost more up front but can last many years. If you need many ladles, buying a set or pack can save you money. When looking at prices, check what the ladle is made of, how much it can hold, and how the handle feels. This helps you find the best balance between price and quality. A better ladle might cost more, but it can be a good investment that lasts a long time.

Multi-Purpose Functionality

Choosing a multi-purpose ladle means looking for some important features. First, pick a ladle that holds at least 8 ounces. That way, you can serve big bowls of soup, stew, or sauce without filling it up all the time. A deep, curved bowl helps prevent spills, especially when you’re dealing with thick liquids. Make sure the handle is long enough so you can reach into tall pots without burning your hand. This keeps you safe and comfortable. A spout or pouring edge makes it easier to transfer liquids neatly. It helps reduce messes and makes pouring easier. Lastly, choose a ladle made from strong, heat-resistant materials. This kind of material won’t bend, break, or get stained easily. When you pick a versatile ladle like this, you’re ready for many kitchen tasks. It becomes a real workhorse in your cooking tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Materials Are Safest for Serving Hot Liquids?

You should look for ladles made from safest materials like stainless steel, silicone, or heat-resistant plastic. These materials won’t leach harmful chemicals into hot liquids, ensuring safe, durable, and easy-to-clean serving tools for soups and stews.

How Do I Prevent Rusting on Stainless Steel Ladles?

You prevent rust on stainless steel ladles by washing them promptly after use, drying thoroughly, avoiding harsh abrasives, and occasionally applying a food-safe oil or stainless steel cleaner to maintain their shine and resistance.

Can Ladles Be Dishwasher Safe?

You can usually put ladles in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer warns against it. Check the care instructions to confirm they’re dishwasher safe; most stainless steel and heat-resistant plastic ladles tolerate dishwasher cleaning well.

What Size Ladle Is Ideal for Big Pots?

For big pots, you want a large ladle, typically 4 to 6 inches in diameter, to easily scoop generous portions. This size helps you serve effectively without spilling and guarantees you handle large quantities comfortably.

Are There Ergonomic Designs for Comfortable Grip?

You’ll find that ergonomic ladles feature comfortable, non-slip handles designed to reduce hand fatigue while ensuring a secure grip. These designs make scooping easier and more comfortable, especially during long cooking sessions or when handling hot, heavy pots.