A quality roasting pan should be a staple in any kitchen. In fact, roasting pans are one of the most versatile cookware items out there. Sure, they come in handy at Thanksgiving if you plan to roast a turkey—but theyre also great for roasting vegetables, meats, and even baking lasagnas and other complex dishes.
In the market for a roasting pan? One of the first things you may notice is that these pans come in a wide range of sizes. How can you know which size is right for your needs? Weve got a few practical tips to help you select the right size roasting pan for your kitchen.
Roasting a turkey is a Thanksgiving tradition for many families. When preparing your holiday bird, having the right equipment like a properly sized roasting pan, is key to success. But with so many options on the market how do you determine what size roasting pan you need for a 12 lb turkey? This comprehensive guide breaks it down.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roasting Pan Size
Several key factors go into choosing the optimal roasting pan size for your 12 lb turkey
Pan Length
This refers to the long side of the rectangular roasting pan, measured in inches from rim to rim. Common sizes are
- 14-inch pans: Best for turkeys up to 12 lbs
- 16-inch pans: Fits turkeys up to 16 lbs
- 18-inch pans: Holds turkeys up to 20 lbs
So for a 12 lb turkey, a 14-inch roasting pan is ideal. A 16-inch pan will also work but may be unnecessarily large.
Pan Depth
- 3-4 inches deep is optimal. This allows juices to collect without overflowing and promotes air circulation for even cooking.
- Pans less than 3 inches deep can cause messy spills.
- Pans over 4 inches deep may steam the turkey rather than roasting it.
Material
Popular options include:
- Stainless steel: Durable and distributes heat evenly. Easy to clean.
- Anodized aluminum: Lightweight and conducts heat well.
Avoid uncoated aluminum which can react with acidic ingredients like citrus and wine.
Handles
- Fixed handles are easier to grasp when heavy.
- Fold-down handles save storage space but can be tricky to maneuver.
Additional Features
- A roasting rack elevates the turkey from drippings, allowing air flow for crispy skin.
- Nonstick surfaces simplify cleanup.
Determining the Perfect Pan Size
Morgan Atwood, chef and author, provides size recommendations based on turkey weight:
- Up to 12 pounds: 14 x 10 x 2-3/4 inches
- Up to 16 pounds: 15-3/4 x 12 x 3 inches
- Up to 20 pounds: 16 x 13 x 3 inches
So for a 12 lb bird, Morgan advises a 14-inch size pan.
Considering Oven Dimensions
Before purchasing a roasting pan, measure your oven’s interior to ensure the pan will fit. Allow at least 1 inch of clearance on all sides for proper air circulation. Also factor in the pan’s handles.
If pan length or handles go over the oven dimensions, this can lead to uneven cooking.
Shopping Tips for Roasting Pans
When selecting your ideal roasting pan, keep these tips in mind:
- Lift empty pans to test the weight and handles. Ensure you can maneuver it when loaded.
- Examine reviews mentioning any handle issues.
- Check that the pan fits in your desired storage space.
- Compare prices across brands and materials like stainless steel vs. anodized aluminum.
- Consider possible future uses like roasting veggies or baking lasagna to maximize value.
Top Roasting Pan Recommendations for a 12 lb Turkey
Based on size requirements, features, and value, here are top-rated roasting pan options for a 12 lb turkey:
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Cuisinart 16-Inch Roasting Pan – Aluminum with rack. Handles turkey up to 16 lbs.
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Calphalon 16-Inch Roasting Pan – Heavy-gauge steel with sturdy handles. Nonstick rack.
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Farberware 15-Inch Roasting Pan – Affordable, aluminum set under $30. Handles turkey up to 12 lbs.
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All-Clad E8759964 Roasting Pan – 14-inch stainless steel pan. High sides for easy basting.
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Kitchenaid KROS504ESS Roasting Pan – Professional-grade 18/10 stainless steel. Long handles.
Get Ready to Roast Your 12 lb Bird
With a properly sized high-quality roasting pan and a beautifully brined turkey, you’re all set for a perfect Thanksgiving centerpiece. We recommend a 14-inch size for ideal maneuverability, airflow, and results. Just follow standard roasting guidelines for time and temperature based on the weight. Soon your home will be filled with incredible aromas and your table ready for a memorable holiday feast. Enjoy!
16 Inches
The next size up is the 16-inch roasting pan, which is a medium-sized option that will work well for most home cooks. These pans are ideal for roasting larger batches of food at once, including sheet pan meals that may involve roasting meats and vegetables on the same pan for convenience (and fewer dishes to clean up afterwards).
For a Thanksgiving turkey, you can expect a medium 16-inch roasting pan to fit a bird of about 16 pounds.
18 Inches
If you tend to cook for larger crowds, then youll want to go large with your roasting pan. Specifically, an 18-inch roasting pan is typically the largest size available for a home kitchen. These pans are great for roasting multiple sides at once. Many people will even use rolled up aluminum foil to divide a large roasting pan into several “sections for roasting different ingredients.
An 18-inch roasting pan will fit a turkey up to 20 pounds, but youll want to measure and make sure that a pan this large will fit in your oven properly.
What size roasting pan for a 21 pound turkey?
FAQ
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