The present paper investigates the cutting parameters pertaining to the turning of X2CrNi18-09 austenitic stainless steel that are studied and optimized using both RSM and desirability approaches. The cutting tool inserts used are the CVD coated carbide. The cutting speed, the feed rate and the depth of cut represent the main machining parameters considered. Their influence on the surface roughness and the cutting force are further investigated using the ANOVA method. The results obtained lead to conclude that the feed rate is the surface roughness highest influencing parameter with a contribution of 89.69%. The depth of cut and the feed rate are further identified as the most important parameters affecting the cutting force with contributions of 46.46% and 39.04% respectively.