Roasting Pans

Cook Delicious Family Dinners with the Right Roasting Pans

Whether you're cooking a pot roast, pork roast, or seasoned roast chicken, a good roasting pan will help you get tender, succulent results. First, consider the size of the cut you usually roast. You'll want a pan that is big enough so it doesn't touch the sides but will still fit comfortably in your oven. In terms of depth, a shallow roaster tray will cook food more quickly but won't give you as much browning as a deeper pan. It can also cause vegetables to dry out instead of cooking in their own juices. Carbon steel is a good choice for material as it absorbs and distributes heat quickly and evenly. The non-porous, porcelain surface is naturally non-stick and safe for metal utensils. Stainless steel roasting pans also work well as they resist warping. Aluminum roasting pans conduct heat better, but they can react with acidic ingredients and may warp at high heat settings. Non-stick roasting pans make for easy cleanup, but they don't work as well for deglazing and making sauces.

For kitchen safety look for a roasting pan with handles. They should be big enough for easy grasping with oven mitts while still allowing your pan to fit in the oven and dishwasher. You'll also want a roasting rack that fits inside your pan. Look for a durable rack that won't bow under the weight of a large piece of meat.