If you want to have a Sunday roast every now and then, a roasting pan would be a great asset to your home or commercial kitchen. A high-quality roasting pan, however, will consistently yield juicy and flavorful results whether you’re roasting a chicken, turkey, or beef roast. Here, you’ll find detailed reviews of the top 10 roasting pans, along with all the information you’ll need to make an informed purchase.
Best Pick
The Cuisinart MCP117-16BR MultiClad Pro Roaster with Rack is an excellent option because it can go in the dishwasher, can be used with an induction stovetop, and is manufactured entirely of stainless steel for long life and excellent performance.
Budget Pick
The Circulon 47111 Nonstick Roasting Pan with Rack is another great option, since it is durable enough to roast a turkey, ham, chicken, or fish, and has a capacity large enough to accommodate these items.
10 Best Roasting Pans
Cuisinart MCP117-16BR MultiClad Pro Roaster with Rack
Featured Advantages
- When you add the roasting area and the handle together, it measures 20.8 inches.
- Easily cleaned by hand and compatible with induction ranges.
- The rack is made of sturdy stainless steel and looks great too.
When roasting a meat for a crowd, whether at a party, a family supper, or a holiday feast, the Cuisinart MCP117-16BR is an excellent choice of cookware. This model was made to accommodate a turkey or huge roast, allowing for a lot of food to be cooked at once. You can grab hold of the riveted-on stainless steel handles and lift the pan with minimal effort when it’s time to put it or remove it from the oven.
The meat or poultry will cook evenly because the stainless steel is extremely heat-conductive. It’s made of three layers, the center of which is aluminum; the exterior is finished in brushed stainless steel, and it looks great in any kitchen. To preserve flavor and moisture while it cooks, the supplied lid fits snugly.
Circulon 47111 Nonstick Roasting Pan with Rack
Featured Advantages
- One 17-by-13-inch roaster and a rack to keep the meat off the bottom of the pan are included.
- Perfect for roasting a wide variety of meats, poultry, fish, veggies, and more.
- Provides a stylish option that pairs well with a variety of Circulon pieces
The Circulon 47111 Nonstick Roasting Pan is an excellent choice for preparing a wide variety of roasts, from the traditional Thanksgiving turkey to a simple rib roast for Sunday dinner. It has roomy, riveted handles that will not come loose, giving you peace of mind as you transfer the pan from the stovetop to the oven or the dining room table. It’s suitable for low, leisurely cooking or speedier preparations in ovens up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
This type has a metal rack to elevate the meat above the grease and juices while it cooks. If you want to use the pan for something else, like a casserole or a lasagna, just take out the rack. A PFOA-free, nonstick coating covers both the inside and outside, preventing food from sticking and facilitating effortless cleanup.
Farberware Bakeware Nonstick Steel Roaster with Flat Rack
Featured Advantages
- Includes a deep pan (11 x 15 inches) with a rack (removed) to keep meats above the drippings while cooking.
- It can withstand temperatures in the oven of up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to prepare any of your favorite meals with ease.
- Constructed to withstand repeated use in the oven for a long time.
Another excellent option is the Farberware 57026 roasting pan, which, thanks to its nonstick coating, allows you to swiftly roast, barbecue, or roast a whole chicken or turkey without worrying about the meat adhering to the pan. Two riveted stainless steel carry handles and a food release system make it simple to transport the pan from oven to table, and vice versa.
In addition to its intended uses of roasting fish, meat, and vegetables, this product can also be used to crisp bacon, heat sausages, and cook chicken nuggets. Using commercial-grade steel ensures that your food will brown and cook uniformly, without any raw or undercooked areas. No lid is included, so if you need one, you’ll have to go out and buy it independently.
Calphalon Contemporary 16-Inch Stainless Steel Roasting Pan with Rack
Featured Advantages
- In spite of its meaty contents, the brushed stainless steel handles make it a breeze to carry.
- Has enough room for a 25-pound turkey or several smaller cuts of meat.
- Has a heat-conducting aluminum core
High-pressure, high-heat impact bonding is used to strengthen the structure of this rack-equipped Calphalon Contemporary roasting pan. The cooking area is nonstick, making cleanup simple, yet it can be used with any cooking instrument. It has a sleek aesthetic that would complement most kitchens whether it were full of meat or not.
To complete meals and produce gravies, you can transfer this pan from the oven to the stove, or vice versa. It can be cleaned easily in the dishwasher and doesn’t require hand cleaning. This roasting pan is both functional and attractive, making it worth considering if you’re in the market for one.
Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan with Nonstick Rack
Featured Advantages
- The highest temperature at which they can be safely baked is 450 degrees F.
- For a generous amount of space in the kitchen, this item has measurements of 16.5 by 13.5 by 3.75 inches.
- Fabricated from hard-anodized aluminum for lasting use and uniform heat distribution.
There’s also a classic collection roasting pan by Calphalon, perfect for a festive ham or turkey, a whole chicken, a large roast, and a variety of vegetables. An integrated nonstick rack keeps food off the bottom of the pan, where it may brown more evenly and where any drippings or liquids can pool. You can trust the two double-riveted stainless steel handles to carry hot meat safely from oven to table or stove.
Even though it must be washed by hand, the nonstick coating on the inside of this roasting pan makes cleanup a breeze. It can be used with any type of stove top, including gas, electric, halogen, and glass. It’s perfect for making lasagna and other dishes that call for a deep pan, and the rack is removable so you can use it for that, too.
All-Clad E752C264 Stainless Steel Roaster with Nonstick Rack
Featured Advantages
- Available in sizes small, medium, and large, these nonstick pans are ideal for any home kitchen.
- allows for stovetop use if induction burners are not present.
- V-shaped rack included for evenly browned and cooked food.
The All-Clad E752C264 stainless steel roasting pan with rack will elevate your at-home cooking to professional standards. It’s constructed from durable stainless steel and designed to complement conventional or modern kitchens alike. It’s built to withstand years of use in the kitchen thanks to its sturdy design and ergonomic shape.
The pan’s high sides, at 2 3/4 inches, keep liquids and drippings from splashing all over while you cook. It has a metal core that maintains heat and ensures even cooking of your turkey or chicken. This roasting pan is a solid investment thanks to its shiny appearance, sturdy three-ply construction, and convenient features.
Viking Culinary 4013-5016 Stainless Steel Roasting Pan with Nonstick Rack
Featured Advantages
- Stainless steel skillet that can be stored in the fridge and used to cook everything from chicken to potatoes.
- Included is a style that can withstand heat of up to 300 degrees Celsius in the oven.
- Provides convenient, high handles for moving food from the pan to a serving platter.
The Viking Culinary pan stands out from the crowd because to its covered structure and unique features. You can fit a 25-pound turkey or even a larger roast inside, and it’s easy to move around in small spaces. 18/10 stainless steel is used for the interior because it does not react with food, so if you plan to make gravy from the drippings, all of your favorite flavors will remain intact.
People who are concerned about their family’ health will be relieved to know that the rack they are considering purchasing does not contain any PFOA or PFOE. It boasts a three-ply construction for maximum durability and efficient heat transfer. This pan can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher, unlike some of the others on this list.
Tramontina 80203/005DS Gourmet Prima Roasting Pan with Basting Grill
Featured Advantages
- From 13.5″ to 18.75″, with two depth options
- Safe for use up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit in conventional and convection ovens, as well as under the broiler
- Constructed from 18/10 stainless steel in a style consistent with other Tramontina cookware
You may rest assured that the Tramontina 80203/005DS roasting pan is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior. The base is constructed of three layers that are impact-bonded together; the aluminum core provides conductivity. In addition, the induction-compatible, magnetic base ensures speedy and even heating when used with induction hobs.
All of the roasting pans have beautiful mirror finishes on the exterior, making them simple to clean. In addition, the pan has cast stainless steel handles that are riveted to the body for a secure grip for transporting meals. It has a rack, but you’ll have to buy a different lid if you want to use it for storage.
KitchenAid 5-Ply Clad Stainless Steel Roasting Pan / Roaster with Removable Rack
Featured Advantages
- Use with confidence in the dishwasher; PFOA- and PTFE-free nonstick coating promotes healthful cooking.
- Incorporating space-saving, ergonomically designed stainless steel cast handles
- If you want to use the pan for something other than roasting meat, the rack is easily removable.
With its well-balanced construction and uniform heating, the KitchenAid KC1T16RP creates an ideal environment in which to cook delectable meals. You can fit a whole turkey for Thanksgiving or a family roast inside its 16 by 13 by 3 inch dimensions. Its exterior is beautifully polished, making it an eye-catching addition to any desk or counter.
The rack that comes with the pan collects the meat’s drippings and liquids for use in making gravy once the meat is cooked. The pan’s sturdy tri-ply structure means it can withstand temperatures in the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The nonstick coating is protected from being scratched or peeled off in any way.
Anolon 30834 Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel Roaster with Rack
Featured Advantages
- Designed with a three-layer design and an aluminum core for uniform heat conduction.
- Developed to go with any of Anolon’s other cookware
- Durable enough to withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven and the dishwasher.
This Anolon roaster, made of stainless steel and aluminum, is built to last and performs admirably. It’s compatible with both conventional and induction hobs, making it useful for cooking of all kinds. Those stainless steel handles are ergonomically designed to make it simple to transfer food from stove to table.
There’s plenty of room for a big turkey in this roasting pan, which measures 17 by 12.5 inches. You may make layered pasta dishes or casseroles without having to replace the rack every time. It has all the features you’d expect from an Anolon product and should work great in most kitchens.
What to Know When Choosing the Best Roasting Pans
When it comes to roasting pans, one of the most common questions people have is why they are necessary. It’s a valid inquiry, as is the subsequent one concerning the appropriate pan size. This section will explain what a roasting pan is, how it can improve your cooking, and what to look for in a good one.
Reasons to Use a Roasting Pan
In order to ensure that the entire piece of meat is cooked evenly, roasting pans are constructed in such a way that the heat circulates inside. In order to prevent some parts of a large slab of meat from becoming overcooked while others remain rare during roasting, it is essential to provide uniform airflow all over the meat.
There are a variety of roasting pans available, but the ones that give the most functionality will have a built-in inner frame. Others choose a model with a removable frame for better airflow and heat distribution.
High-sided, traditional roasting pans are ideal for cooking everything from turkeys to pot roasts and allow for simple gravy removal after cooking. Those who plan on roasting a turkey or other large bird or cut of meat should opt for a pan with a large surface area.
What Roasting Pans Are Used For
It’s common knowledge that a turkey (or other meat) can be cooked in just about any ceramic or stainless steel pot, so you might be asking what makes a roasting pan special. These pans, however, aren’t made solely for showcasing your holiday turkey. These pans are perfect for slow roasting because of the high edge, which helps to keep the food in place.
In contrast to conventional cooking utensils, these pans feature great heat circulation and will ensure that your meat is cooked evenly. A roasting pan is a must-have kitchen appliance if you frequently roast meats like turkey or pork for guests.
Essential Things to Look For in Your Roasting Pan
You may be interested in learning more about the qualities of the roasting pans on the list above. If you’re looking at the list of roasting pans but aren’t sure which one would be best for your family, this can help you narrow down your options. When looking to purchase a roasting pan, it is essential to consider not just the size but also the materials and the shape.
Dimensions and Capacity
Factors like as size are crucial. It’s possible that you won’t be able to roast a whole turkey in a pan that’s too tiny, and a pan that’s too big can only take up unnecessary counter space.
If you want to avoid having your meat stick to the sides of the pan, choose a pan with a capacity that exceeds the largest slices of meat you intend to cook. If you want even browning and roasting on all sides, including the bottom, your roasting pan must have enough of airflow.
Too much surface area between the bottom of the pan and the food might cause the juices from the meat to evaporate and burn, preventing them from being used to make gravy.
Those with the means to do so may choose to invest in a variety of pan sizes so that they can use them for a variety of purposes. Smaller cuts of meat can be cooked in a larger pan if you don’t have access to more than one. You may prevent the juices from burning by placing a layer of herbs and vegetables cut into chunks at the bottom of the pan, and you’ll also have a tasty side dish.
It’s also important to keep in mind that pan measurements may or may not include the pan’s handles. The capacity of a pan can be roughly estimated by measuring its interior.
Size specifications are as follows.
If you’re roasting a turkey or any small animal that weighs less than 12 pounds, a small roaster measuring around 14 by 10 by 3 inches can do the job just well.
A turkey weighing around 16 pounds will fit in a medium roaster of about 16 by 12 by 3 inches.
If you have a large roasting pan, say 18 by 13 by 4 inches, you may fit a turkey or other meat up to 20 pounds in there.
Be sure the side walls are deep enough, since this will prevent fluids from splashing when utilizing a water bath or braising a steak.
However, wider cuts become more difficult to navigate when walls are too high. Heat is more likely to increase when near the walls, which might lead to problems with the bottom of the meat being undercooked.
Most experts agree that roasting at a depth of three to four inches yields the greatest results in terms of both efficiency and flavor.
The Shape of Roasting Pans
Common shapes for roasting pans are oval and rectangular. The clean contours of an oval roasting pan make it ideal for roasting a variety of meats, including chicken, ham, turkey, prime rib, and more. There are no sharp edges to interfere in the way while you whisk, making these ideal for making sauces and gravies.
Oval pans have less cooking space than other shapes, therefore they might not be ideal for producing a variety of foods at once, such game hens or chickens.
If you plan on roasting many items or large cuts of meat, a rectangle pan will give you more options. However, it has several drawbacks, like as hard to clean and awkward to use when creating sauces.
It has been argued that a rectangular pan with rounded corners is the optimal shape, as it combines the advantages of both square and round pans.
Weight of Roasting Pans
A common misconception is that the heaviest roasting pan is the one on top. The lightest option is not always the best one, either. A good roasting pan has a substantial weight when empty but isn’t too cumbersome to lift when full with meat.
The roasting pan you choose should be able to withstand the combined weight of the roast and the heat it generates without warping, twisting, or popping out of shape, thus its weight is an important factor to think about. Additionally, having a sturdy framework aids in the efficient distribution of heat. As a bonus, this helps keep any sauces, gravies, or reductions from turning bitter from overcooking with drippings.
Types of Materials Used in Roasting Pans
Stainless steel, nonstick, aluminum, clad stainless steel, copper, and cast iron are just a few of the many materials used to make roasting pans. The time-honored classic, enameled carbon steel, is also available. You should think about the pros and cons of each option before making a purchase.
Copper
Copper is highly recommended for its smooth heating and high conductivity. It’s also easy to move from the stovetop to the oven and back again. Copper’s main drawbacks are its high cost and incompatibility with induction ranges. Even though this is a great material, it is not practical for a roasting pan unless you plan to use it frequently.
Multi-Ply Stainless Steel with Copper or Aluminum
Cladding that consists of three or more layers of stainless steel surrounding a copper or aluminum core is said to be tri-ply or multi-ply. Thanks to its great durability and the resilience of stainless steel, it performs admirably in terms of both heating efficiency and uniformity. A word of caution, though: models with full cladding may be significantly more than others.
Encapsulated Bottoms of Aluminum or Copper
Some roasting pans have a bottom made of aluminum or copper rather than a core made of these materials. This pan, like stainless steel cookware, will be lightweight, long-lasting, and simple to clean. The bottom disk layer will help improve heat conductivity.
Stainless Steel
A stainless steel pan has several advantages and is highly sought after. It’s attractive, easy to clean, and resistant to extreme temperatures. But without aluminum or copper, heating can be a little uneven, leading to burning or hot patches.
Carbon Steel with an Enamel Coating
Even though carbon steel with an enamel covering is an antiquated material, you can still find certain roasting pans produced from it. Aside from being quick to clean, this also provides great heat conduction. In comparison to other materials, they are both lightweight and affordable.
Enamel can chip easily, which is the sole drawback. As an additional safety precaution, check the steel’s thickness; thin steel can easily bend or buckle when heated.
Aluminum
Aluminum baking sheets are easy to transport and store and have great heat conduction. However, since acidic components might seep into the pan, it isn’t always the ideal choice for roasting. It also corrodes quickly, is easily stained, and can be dented or even warped by even mild impacts.
Aluminum that has been anodized
Because of the absence of leaching concerns, anodized aluminum roasting pans might be difficult to look into because of their dark appearance. It may also be difficult to judge the progress of the meat on the bottom. Although it does not always perform as well as a nonstick coating, this substance is nonstick. It’s an excellent option for individuals on a budget who are looking for long-lasting nonstick roasting pans.
Iron foundry
Since cast-iron cookware is typically heavy and heats up a little unevenly, it’s best to turn it in quarter turns to ensure equal cooking. Proper seasoning causes the creation of a natural nonstick coating, but regular care is still necessary to keep it in top condition. It is possible for these roasting pans to break if kept on high, direct heat for too long.
Glassware
Glassware should not be used on the stove and should be kept away from any hot burners. Because of its potential heaviness, transporting it presents its own set of challenges. Furthermore, the glass substance makes it susceptible to cracking, chipping, and breaking over time.
Additional Things to Consider
When looking for the best roasting pan, there are a few other factors to consider. For instance, you’ll need strong handles so that you can remove heavy roasts from the oven. Large loop handles, especially those that are riveted to the pan, are the most reliable and user-friendly option.
You should also consider whether or not you need stovetop-safe saucepans. The stovetop is where you’ll want to be after roasting a turkey or a roast, whether to prepare gravies, sauces, or reductions. Some roasting pans can be used safely on the cooktop, while others should not.
One further thing to think about is if the pan has racks already installed. Racks keep the meat off the bottom of the pan, allowing for more even cooking and healthier juices. They allow drippings to accumulate at the bottom, which can be used to flavor and season your side dishes.
It’s a pain to clean the racks afterward since they gather juices and increase the likelihood of meat sticking. Look for a rack that has sturdy handles so you can easily lift it, and leave plenty of clearance under it for air to circulate.
And finally, before you go out and buy a roasting pan, consider the size of your oven. If you want to make sure the pan you buy will fit in your oven, it’s a good idea to measure the interior first. Do not forget to factor in the length of the handles.
Conclusion
It’s a good idea to do some research on the features and prices of several roasting pans before settling on one. It really only depends on your needs and preferences which of the aforementioned types would be the finest roasting pan for your kitchen. To get the most out of your pan, you should keep the aforementioned considerations in mind.
