Last Updated on May 19, 2023 by River Tree Farms
Everyone needs a good roasting pan. It is great for roasting ribs, glazing ham, and cooking up turkey. Although it is commonly used during the holidays, your roasting pan doesn’t need to sit somewhere collecting dust all year round. You can use it for everyday cooking as well. So, can you use a roasting pan on the stove?
Using a Roasting Pan on the Stovetop
The right roasting pan is a huge convenience in any household. It is ideal for roasting large meat quantities and huge turkeys. Therefore, the main concern for most people is whether the pans can be used on stovetops.
There is no specific answer to this question. It all depends on the type of roasting pan you have. If it has a sturdy bottom, you should have no trouble using it on the stove. If, however, the bottom isn’t very sturdy, there is a high likelihood of warping.
Do you hope to use your roasting pans over stovetops? Invest in good quality. They should be good at heat distribution and able to withstand direct heat. The instruction manual should let you know if the pan is safe to use on a stove.
Stainless steel or aluminum pans with nonstick coating are the most suitable options for stovetop cooking. The materials are strong and unlikely to warp.
When Should You Use a Roasting Pan?
Roasting pan uses are endless. You can use them for just about any recipe that requires a sheet pan. The next time you want to bring out your sheet pan, use a roasting pan instead.
In addition, you may be able to roast large amounts of sweet potatoes, a large turkey, or two chickens on the pan. They are great for large quantities of vegetables and lasagna as well.
Consider using your roasting pan for braised short ribs and other braises. Use them to sear your meat on the stovetop and lock in fantastic flavors. Deglaze in the pan, add some vegetables and liquid, and put everything into the oven when you are done. It is a delicious one-pot meal.
How to Clean a Roasting Pan
- Before using your roasting pan again, wash it thoroughly with soap and water. Use a sponge or dishcloth to wipe out any excess grease.
- Rinse off the pan under running water until no traces of dirt remain.
- Regular cleaning will keep your roasting in good condition for a long time.
How to Store a Roasting Pan
Store your roasting pan in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not keep it near heat sources such as radiators or ovens. Keep your roasting pan away from the refrigerator and moisture.
The pan may warp over time due to prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. To avoid this, keep your roasting pan in its original packaging and wrap it tightly in plastic film before storing it.
What Makes a Good Roasting Pan?
The best roasting pan depends on your needs. However, it should generally be thick and sturdy. This is especially important if you plan on using the pan on a stove.
Pay attention to the material and weight. Carbon steel, aluminum, and stainless steel are some of the best materials. A heavy-duty roasting pan should weigh about ten pounds. Take the weight into consideration. You should be able to lift your pan even when it is filled with food. While the pan shouldn’t be very light, you don’t want it to be too heavy either.
Pick the right size for your family and the pan’s use. If you like to host dinner parties, you’ll obviously need a large pan. If your pan is too small, it could steam your food instead of roasting it. If it is too big, the pan drippings may scorch as they will be spread too thin on the bottom of your pan.
The best roasting pan depends on the type of food you want to roast. But, if you want to cook meat or poultry, you need a deep-sided pan with a handle. If you want to make bread puddings, cakes, or other desserts, then go for a shallow-sided pan without a handle.
How to Bake a Cake in a Roasting Pan
A roasting pan is perfect for baking cakes because it gives you better control over the temperature than a regular cake tin. This way, you can ensure that the batter cooks evenly throughout.
First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare a perfect cake. Next, pour the batter into a greased roasting pan and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, turn off the oven and leave the cake in the oven for another 15 minutes.
Remove the cake from the oven and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, cut the cake into slices.
How to Bake Cookies In a Roasting Pan
Preheat the oven to 175°C (345°F) degrees and grease the sides of the roasting pan with butter. Add the cookie dough to the prepared pan and press it firmly around the edges.
Place the pan in the center baking rack of the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Turn the oven off and leave the pan in for another 10 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack. Cut the baked cookies into small pieces.
Conclusion
Can you use a roasting pan on the stove? Yes, you can. However, this doesn’t apply to all roasting pans. If your pan is light and not sturdy at the bottom, exposure to direct heat will make it warp. If, however, it is heavy with a sturdy bottom, you can safely use it on your stovetop.
Even though many people wait until the holidays to bring out their roasting pans, you can use them for everyday cooking. They are appropriate for baking cakes and cookies, roasting vegetables, potatoes, and more. Please pay attention to your needs and choose a pan that matches them. Remember that the right pan for one person may not always be appropriate for another one.
