If you want to cook a turkey for your Thanksgiving celebration, a delectable roast chicken or lamb roast for a midweek meal, a deep pan lasagne for a brood of hungry kids, you need a high quality, sturdy roasting pan.
A roasting pan is one of the most important cooking containers in any kitchen. It is very versatile. As well as using it to roast a chicken, turkey, or lamb roast, a roasting pan can be used for lasagnas, pasta bakes, roasting vegetables, and potatoes. Depending on its shape, you can even use it to bake bread.
The 6 Best Roasting Pans
- Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Rectangular Roaster
- Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan (Our Top Pick)
- Granite Ware Covered Oval Roaster
- All-Clad Aluminum Nonstick Large Roaster
- USA Pans Bakeware Lasagne and Roasting Baking Pan
- Catering Essentials Full-Size Disposable Steam Table Pan
Our Top Pick for the Best Roasting Pan
Our top pick for the best roasting pan is the Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan.
Whether it is a succulent roast turkey for your Thanksgiving celebration, a mid-week lasagne, or a chicken dinner for the family on Sunday, the Calphalon Classic 16-inch Roasting Pan is a great choice. It features a high-quality design and superior heat conductibility which is necessary for roasting the perfect turkey or chicken or cooking a delicious lasagne for a large family.
The extra-deep pan and sturdy roasting rack allow you to baste your favorite bird or roast to perfection. Once you have finished serving your meal, the non-stick aluminum material is very easy to clean. The Calphalon pan allows you to cook so many different types of meals all in one pan. Making it the ultimate roasting pan.
Check the price on AmazonHow to Choose the Best Roasting Pan
As well as providing you with excellent heat conductibility so that your turkey or chicken cooks evenly and roasts to perfection, there are some other important specifications you should be looking for in a roasting pan such as:
- The shape and size of the pan which will determine its ability to accommodate the type of food you want to roast or cook
- Strong, thick metal construction that will not bend under the weight of heavy food items like a large turkey. The material should also be able to withstand high temperatures
- Strong handles that allow you to maneuver the pan in the oven while the food is cooking. And also easily lift the pan out of the oven to the kitchen counter or dining table
- A sturdy roasting rack that can hold a large chicken or turkey
- A non-stick surface that helps to stop any food from sticking to the pan’s surface. Also, allow you to clean the pan easily
Before you consider these specifications, the first thing to consider is the size and shape of the roasting pan which will depend on what you want to use it for.
Shape and Size
Most roasting pans come in either a rectangular, square, or oval shape. They come in a range of sizes such as 14, 16, or 18-inch. The exact dimensions of the roasting pan will also depend on the manufacturer as some pans may be wider than others.
Some roasting pans come with a lid like the Granite Ware Covered Oval Roaster, which makes it a great choice for a pot roast as the tightly fitting lid will seal in the juices for a stronger flavor.
A small roasting pan that measures at 14-inches will accommodate an average turkey up to 12lbs. For a larger turkey up to 16 or 20lbs, a medium-sized roasting pan that measures 16-inches will be a good fit.
There are some pans like the All-Clad Aluminum Nonstick Large Roaster that measures 16 by 13-inches and the Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan, which are extra wide and deep enough to accommodate an extra-large turkey up to 24lbs.
There are two other important things you need to remember in relation to the size of the roasting pan:
- If you only want to roast a regular-sized chicken it is best not to use a large 16-inch pan as the bottom of the pan will be exposed. And the juices may burn and also the roast may take longer to cook.
- A pan that has extra high sides is designed to stop any overflow of juices from spilling over the sides into your oven. Or from burning you when you take the pan out of the oven.
Construction
The best type of roasting pan is one that has a thick metal construction and is made from either stainless steel, cast iron, steel with an enamel coating, hard-anodized aluminum, or heavy-gauge aluminized steel. Roasting pans that are made out of these types of materials ensure that the pan is strong. They will not bend or warp in an extra hot oven. They will also be able to take the weight of a heavy roast.
The material is also very important for maintaining good heat conductibility so the heat properly circulates around the chicken or turkey so that the food will be well cooked and the skin of the meat will be roasted to a crispy golden brown color.
Carbon steel and hard-anodized aluminum are both excellent heat conductors and some manufacturers like Cuisinart make their roasting pans from high-quality Triple Ply Construction stainless steel. This extra-thick material not only allows the pan to take a lot of weight but it allows the heat to continually circulate so that your roast cooks perfectly.
Disposable Roasting Pans
If you host a lot of barbecues or like to go camping or you have your own catering business, why not consider a disposable roasting pan? Not only are these pans easy to transport but they save on washing up. However, the word, “disposable”, can conjure up images of flimsy pans that are not substantial enough to hold a lot of weight. Still, there are a lot of very good quality roasting pans out there.
Like the Catering Essentials Full-Size Disposable Steam Table Pan which is strong and sturdy and can carry up to 13 pounds of food.
Handles
Strong and sturdy handles are very important especially if you are cooking a large turkey. Look for handles that are securely riveted to the pan like the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Rectangular Roaster. It has strong brushed stainless steel double-riveted handles. Or the USA Pans Bakeware Lasagne and Roasting Baking Pan. This one has easy-grip handles that can help you to lift the pan out of the oven.
Roasting Rack
If you want to cook a chicken, turkey, or lamb roast, then a roasting pan that has a rack is a great idea. While some chefs prefer to use a roasting pan that does not have a rack, which allows them to place their chicken or turkey directly on the surface of the pan so that the meat can make direct contact with the juices to add extras flavor, others may prefer to place the meat on a rack.
A V-shaped roasting rack allows the heat to fully circulate around the meat and also allows the juices to drain away into the bottom of the pan, which is great if you want to use the meat’s juices for basting or making a sauce. Having the roast on the rack also leaves extra room for you to place vegetables or potatoes in the bottom of the pan so that you can cook a whole meal in one go.
Non-Stick Surface
One of the most frustrating aspects of cooking a chicken or turkey is when parts of the meat stick to the bottom of the pan. A non-stick surface or coating makes sure that your chicken or turkey ends up on the plate and not stuck to the pan or rack. Non-stick surfaces may vary depending on the manufacturer.
The Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan has three layers of non-stick coating on the inside of the pan. The roasting rack is non-stick as well. The USA Pans Bakeware Lasagne and Roasting Baking Pan have a PTFE, PFOA, and BPA-free non-stick coating. It stops your food from sticking to the pan. It also makes it very easy to clean.
Even though the roasting pan may have extra high sides to stop juices from splashing over the sides or the surface of the pan is made from a non-stick or scratch-resistant material, here are five roasting pan tips to keep your roasting pan in good working order.
- To avoid any splashing of the juices, do not over the fill the pan with liquid.
- Even if a roasting pan is made from a lightweight material like aluminum, the pan can still get very heavy when it is filled with a solid turkey. So if you want to cook an extra-large turkey, choose a roasting pan that is specially designed for large pieces of meat.
- To minimize any damage to the surface of the pan, especially on a roasting pan that has a non-stick porcelain surface, do not use metal utensils that can scratch or chip the material.
- Even though a roasting pan may have a non-stick surface, meat or skin can possibly still get stuck to the pan. So once you have finished cooking, soak the pan and the rack in hot soapy water before washing it or putting it in the dishwasher.
- Some roasting pans may only be suitable for particular types of ovens. Or you may not be able to use them in an oven that produces a lot of heat, like over 450°.
6 Best Roasting Pans – Reviews
1. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Rectangular Roaster
If you love preparing a delicious roast chicken or lamb roast, or a plump Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Roaster Pan with Rack is the perfect choice for roasting. The 16-inch rectangular roasting pan is induction-ready and can take temperatures up to 550°.
The pan’s depth is 3–inches deep. So it has the capacity to easily fit a 20-pound turkey or a normal-sized chicken that is surrounded by roast potatoes and vegetables.
With a professional mirrored stainless steel exterior, this solid roasting pan has securely riveted stainless steel handles, which makes it easy to hold and carry the tray out of the oven to the kitchen counter or directly to your dining table.
The solid stainless steel elevated rack can carry even the heaviest of turkeys and allows your meat or poultry to drain its juices so that you can use the juices to baste the meat for extra flavor during the cooking process. The steel rack’s design allows the heat to circulate around the meat to make sure that your food roasts to perfection.
You do not have to worry about any dripping touching your turkey or chicken as there is about 1-inch of space between the bottom of the rack and the pan. Even though Cuisinart makes the roasting pan out of high-quality Triple Ply Construction stainless steel, it is quite lightweight. The pan is easy to clean and it is also dishwasher-safe. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Excellent quality
- Great value for money
- Triple-ply construction stainless steel
- Solid stainless steel rack
- Securely riveted stainless steel handles
- Drip-free pouring
- Very good heat conductibility
- Induction ready
- Ideal for a 20lbs pound turkey
- Very good pan depth
- Ideal for cooking at high temperatures up to 550°
- Easy to clean
- Dishwasher-safe
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- No non-stick surface
- Surface can discolor easily
- Rack is hard to clean
2. Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan
With a superior ability to conduct heat, an extra-large pan size for the plumpest of turkeys, and a non-stick surface, the Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan is a great choice for your next family roast or Thanksgiving celebration. You can also use the pan for a hearty lasagne!
The Calphalon roasting pan is made out of black hard-anodized aluminium construction with an enhanced abrasion resistance which increases its longevity and delivers a superior heat conductivity for perfect roasting every time. The 3.5-inch depth allows the juices to collect away from the meat to create succulent juices so that you can sear, brown, caramelizes and deglaze your chicken or turkey to add extra colour and flavour.
The three layers of non-stick coating on the inside ensures that you can easily remove your food from the pan when it is ready. It also makes cleaning up stubborn baked-on food a breeze. It is very easy to lift the pan and carry it from the oven to the kitchen countertop as the handles are made from brushed stainless steel. They are also double riveted for extra strength.
The V-rack is made from a non-stick material as well and it can also hold a 24lbs turkey. It is designed to ensure optimal heat circulation for that highly desirable crispy golden brown skin that you and your family will love. The roasting pan is recommended for use in stovetops: gas, electric, halogen, or glass stovetops. However, it is only oven safe up to 450°.
Calphalon offers a full lifetime warranty and the details of the warranty are available on the Calphalon website.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Hard-anodized nonstick aluminum material
- Nonstick V-rack can hold up to a 24lbs turkey
- Ideal for lasagne
- Excellent heat conductibility
- Strong brushed stainless double-riveted steel handles
- Very good depth for collecting juices for basting
- Can use it in a wide range of ovens
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Cannot use in temperatures over 450°
- Handles are a bit small for oven mitts
- Nonstick coating can wear off over time
- Surface can scratch easily
- Not dishwasher-safe
3. Granite Ware Covered Oval Roaster
Tagged as America’s favorite roaster, the Granite Ware Covered Oval Roaster is made from a strong and sturdy carbon steel construction that is an excellent heat conductor. The porcelain is fused to the steel at 2,000°, which has produced a non-porous, inert glass surface that is naturally non-stick.
The very stylish black Granite Ware roaster pan comes at an excellent price. It is also very versatile, which makes it a great choice for all sorts of meals, from roasting chicken or a pot roast for two people, or baking bread.
It is proudly made in the US and measures 19 x 13.5-inches. The roaster can hold 20lbs of poultry or roast. The tightly fitting lid with a strong handle seals in the food’s juices for extra flavor and allows your chicken or pot roast to brown to perfection. The porcelain surface contains no harmful chemicals and it is non-stick so you can remove your food easily.
The pan’s attractive black granite-like appearance will look fabulous on your dinner table while you serve your latest culinary creation to your family or friends. Cleaning is very easy with the Granite Ware roaster pan as it is dishwasher-safe.
Pros
- Excellent price
- Can hold 20lbs poultry or roast
- Strong and sturdy carbon steel construction
- Excellent heat conductibility
- Versatile
- Non-stick porcelain surface
- Tightly fitting lid
- Attractive design
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Porcelain can chip if dropped
4. All-Clad Aluminum Nonstick Large Roaster
If you have a large family and need a large roasting pan to fit a 24lbs turkey, the All-Clad 16-inch Roasting Pan is the ideal choice for you. The roasting pan measures 16 x 13-inches. All-Clad makes the pan out of heavy-gauge hard-anodized aluminum which is an excellent conductor of heat. It can provide an overall even heat for a perfectly cooked turkey, chicken, or lamb roast.
The PFOA-free nonstick, anti-warp base will have no trouble accommodating the largest of turkeys. And the extra high sides mean you do not have to worry about the juices splattering or spilling over while you move the pan during the basting process. The base of the pan is very easy to clean. The pan can be heavy to lift once the turkey or chicken is inside the pan.
However, the large stainless steel handles stand upright and are securely attached with stainless steel rivets, which makes it easy to maneuver the pan in and out of the oven.
The V-shaped nonstick steel roasting rack is strong enough to support the weight of a large, plump turkey and allows the natural juices to collect in the pan for extra basting. You can remove the rack if you want to use the pan for roasting vegetables, a rack of lamb, or a large lasagne. You can also place the roasting pan in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.
Pros
- High-quality roasting plan
- Ideal for a 20-24lbs turkey
- Heavy-gauge hard-anodized aluminum construction
- Sturdy handles
- Tall, straight edges minimize splatters and spills
- Strong V-shaped roasting rack
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Expensive
- Bottom of the pan is not flat
- Heavy
- Not compatible with induction cooktops
- Rack is hard to clean
5. USA Pans Bakeware Lasagne and Roasting Baking Pan
With the USA Pans Bakeware Lasagne and Roasting Baking Pan, all home-bakers and roasters can enjoy a commercial quality roasting pan at a very affordable price. This solid roasting pan is proudly made in the US. USA Pans’ dedication to creating high-quality cookware is encapsulated in this versatile roasting pan which will prove to be a valuable addition to your kitchen.
The roasting pan is made from commercial-grade, heavy-gauge aluminized steel. The unique corrugated surface provides optimal air circulation for an overall even heat distribution for perfect cooking results. To create a superior roasting pan, USA Pans has incorporated steel wire into the rim, which provides extra strength and extra resistance to any warping.
The pan measures at 13.75 x 10.37-inches and it has a deep 3-inch base, so there is plenty of room for a large 6-sheet lasagne or two 1 pound boxes of oven-ready lasagne noodles. You can also use the pan for a good-sized roast chicken or a casserole for a large family.
The PTFE, PFOA, and BPA-free superior non-stick coating stops your food from sticking to the pan and provides you with easy clean-up, and the easy-grip handles allow you to pull the pan out of the oven with minimal effort. As the roasting pan is made to such a high standard, it is guaranteed to be long-lasting. However, for that extra peace of mind, USA Pans offer you a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Proudly made in the US
- Excellent quality
- Highly versatile: ideal for lasagne and roasting
- Large and deep pan
- Strong commercial-grade, heavy-gauge, aluminized steel
- Corrugated surface design facilitates optimal air circulation
- Superior PTFE, PFOA and BPA-free non-stick coating
- Warp-resistant
- Easy-grip handles
- Easy to clean
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Pan can be heavy when it is full
- No roasting rack
6. Catering Essentials Full-Size Disposable Steam Table Pan
If you love your barbecues or you have booked a camping trip and would like some disposable roasting pans that will save you from having to wash up, or maybe you run your own catering business and need some reliable roasting trays, then the high-quality Catering Essentials Full-Size Disposable Steam Table Pan is just right for you.
These roast pans feature a simple design but Catering Essentials constructs them out of strong and sturdy 65-gauge aluminum with a full curl rim. They can also hold up to 13 pounds of food. You can use them for steaming vegetables or fish or fill them with ribs, pieces of chicken or turkey, and also roasted potatoes. The non-stick surface stops the food from sticking to the pan. And as they are disposable, you do not have to think about washing up.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Pack of 15 roasting and steaming pans
- Very sturdy and strong
- Portable
- Made from strong 65-gauge aluminum
- Extra deep
- Non-stick surface
- Versatile
Cons
- Not ideal for whole chickens or turkeys
- Also not ideal for everyday use
- Not ideal for very high heat
Our Top Pick for the Best Roasting Pan
Our top pick for the best roasting pan is the Calphalon Classic Hard-Anodized Roasting Pan.
Whether it is a succulent roast turkey for your Thanksgiving celebration, a mid-week lasagne, or a chicken dinner for the family on Sunday, the Calphalon Classic 16-inch Roasting Pan is a great choice. It features a high-quality design and superior heat conductibility which is necessary for roasting the perfect turkey or chicken or cooking a delicious lasagne for a large family.
The extra-deep pan and sturdy roasting rack allow you to baste your favorite bird or roast to perfection. Once you have finished serving your meal, the non-stick aluminum material is very easy to clean. The Calphalon pan allows you to cook so many different types of meals all in one pan. Making it the ultimate roasting pan.
Check the price on Amazon
