Ever wonder how those perfectly roasted turkeys and golden-brown potatoes get made? It often starts with the right roasting pan. But with so many choices out there, picking the best one can feel like a mystery. You want a pan that cooks evenly, is easy to clean, and lasts for years, but finding that perfect match can be tough.
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They’re like the kitchen detectives, testing out all sorts of cookware to find what really works. Their rigorous testing helps take the guesswork out of choosing a roasting pan, saving you time and the frustration of buying a pan that doesn’t deliver.
In this post, we’ll dive into what makes a roasting pan truly great, according to the experts at America’s Test Kitchen. We’ll explore their top picks and explain why they stand out. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what to look for and be ready to choose a roasting pan that will help you create delicious, memorable meals for years to come.
Our Top 5 Roasting Pan America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Roasting Pan America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. One-Pan Wonders: Fuss-Free Meals for Your Sheet Pan
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of washing a mountain of dishes after every meal? “One-Pan Wonders: Fuss-Free Meals for Your Sheet Pan, Dutch Oven, Skillet, Roasting Pan, Casserole, and Slow Cooker” is here to rescue your kitchen! This cookbook is packed with delicious recipes that use just one cooking vessel. Imagine flavorful dinners, hearty breakfasts, and even tasty desserts made with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find easy-to-follow instructions and inspiring ideas for all your favorite cooking pots and pans.
What We Like:
- Great variety of recipes: The book covers many different types of one-pan meals.
- Easy to understand: Instructions are clear and simple, perfect for beginners.
- Saves time and cleanup: You’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your food.
- Inspires creativity: It gives you new ideas for using your existing cookware.
- Uses common ingredients: Most recipes call for ingredients you likely already have.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited photos: Some readers prefer more pictures for each recipe.
- Some recipes are quite basic: Advanced cooks might want more complex options.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine. It truly delivers on its promise of fuss-free, flavorful meals.
2. Cook It in Your Dutch Oven: 150 Foolproof Recipes Tailor-Made for Your Kitchen’s Most Versatile Pot
Rating: 8.9/10
Unlock the full potential of your Dutch oven with “Cook It in Your Dutch Oven: 150 Foolproof Recipes Tailor-Made for Your Kitchen’s Most Versatile Pot.” This cookbook is your guide to creating amazing meals. It’s packed with recipes designed specifically for this popular kitchen tool. You’ll find dishes for every occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Each recipe is easy to follow, making cooking fun and stress-free.
What We Like:
- A huge variety of 150 recipes ensures you’ll never run out of ideas.
- The recipes are clearly written and easy for beginners to understand.
- It covers a wide range of dishes, including soups, stews, roasts, and even desserts.
- The “foolproof” aspect means even less experienced cooks can achieve great results.
- It celebrates the versatility of the Dutch oven, showing its many uses.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require less common ingredients that you’ll need to find at specialty stores.
- The book doesn’t include many pictures of the finished dishes, which can be helpful for visual learners.
This cookbook is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to get more use out of their Dutch oven. You will discover delicious new ways to cook.
3. Cooking for One: Scaled Recipes
Rating: 9.2/10
Cooking for one can feel overwhelming, but this book makes it simple. It’s packed with recipes made just for you. You won’t have to worry about throwing away extra food. Plus, it offers smart ways to save time in the kitchen. This guide is a game-changer for anyone who cooks solo.
What We Like:
- Recipes are perfectly portioned for a single person.
- It teaches you how to use up all your ingredients, so nothing goes to waste.
- The tips help you cook faster and get delicious meals on the table quickly.
- It includes a variety of dishes, from quick lunches to satisfying dinners.
- The instructions are easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require specific, less common ingredients.
- A few more vegetarian or vegan options would be a nice addition.
This book is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without the hassle. It truly simplifies cooking for one.
4. The Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook
Rating: 8.6/10
The Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook, Gift Edition is a fantastic resource for anyone cooking for one or two. It’s packed with 650 delicious recipes, covering everything from quick weeknight dinners to special occasion meals. This book makes cooking for a smaller household easy and exciting.
What We Like:
- Huge variety of recipes: You’ll find something for every craving and skill level.
- Clear instructions: ATK is known for its tested recipes, and these are no exception.
- Perfect portion sizes: No more wasted food or endless leftovers!
- Beautifully presented: It makes a wonderful gift for couples or individuals.
- Covers all meal types: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers, and desserts are all included.
What Could Be Improved:
- Can be a bit overwhelming: With so many options, deciding what to make can take time.
- Some ingredients might be less common: A few recipes may require a trip to a specialty store.
This cookbook truly lives up to its name, offering a complete collection of dishes for two. It’s an essential addition to any kitchen aiming to simplify and elevate meals for smaller groups.
5. USA Pan Bakeware Nonstick Half Sheet Pan
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to bake like a pro with the USA Pan Bakeware Nonstick Half Sheet Pan! This sturdy pan is your go-to for everything from fluffy cakes and crispy cookies to perfectly roasted veggies. It’s built tough, just like the ones you see in professional kitchens.
What We Like:
- This pan is made from strong, thick aluminized steel that won’t warp.
- The special bumpy surface helps air move around your food, so everything bakes evenly and releases easily.
- USA Pan’s special nonstick coating makes food slide right off and cleanup a breeze.
- It’s the perfect size for most recipes, fitting standard ovens.
- This pan is made right here in the USA by a family company that’s been making great bakeware for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the nonstick is great, some users have found that very sticky foods might still need a little extra grease.
- The corrugated surface, while good for baking, can sometimes trap small crumbs if not cleaned thoroughly.
This USA Pan half sheet pan is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering reliable performance and easy cleanup. It’s a workhorse that will help you create delicious baked goods for years to come.
Your Guide to the Best Roasting Pan: America’s Test Kitchen Approved
Roasting a turkey or a big Sunday dinner is a special occasion. A good roasting pan makes it easier and tastier. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many pans. They help us know which ones are the best. This guide will help you pick the right roasting pan for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size Matters
Think about what you usually cook. Do you roast a small chicken or a big turkey? Most roasting pans are around 13×18 inches. This size fits most turkeys and is good for many dishes. Smaller families might like a 9×13 inch pan. Make sure it fits in your oven!
2. Sturdy Handles
You’ll be lifting a heavy pan filled with hot food. Good handles are a must. They should be strong and easy to grip. Look for handles that stick out a bit. This gives you a better hold. Some pans have helper handles. These make it even easier to carry.
3. A Good Rack
Most roasting pans come with a rack. This rack lifts your food off the bottom of the pan. This helps air flow. It makes your meat cook evenly. It also keeps the bottom from getting soggy. The rack should be strong enough to hold your food.
4. High Sides
High sides keep juices and splatters inside the pan. This means less mess in your oven. It also helps keep the juices for making gravy. Look for sides that are at least 2-3 inches tall.
Important Materials
1. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice. It’s strong and doesn’t rust. Many stainless steel pans have a thick aluminum or copper core. This helps them heat evenly. It also makes them durable.
2. Enameled Cast Iron
Enameled cast iron pans are heavy and beautiful. They heat very evenly. They are also great for browning. The enamel coating makes them easy to clean. They can be more expensive than other options.
3. Nonstick Coatings
Some pans have nonstick coatings. These can make cleanup easier. However, nonstick coatings can scratch. They might not last as long as other materials. If you choose nonstick, be careful when using metal utensils.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Pan Great?
Even heating is important. A pan that heats evenly cooks food perfectly. Strong construction means the pan will last a long time. Easy cleanup is also a big plus. Good handles make it safe to use.
What Can Make a Pan Less Good?
Thin metal can warp. This means uneven heating. Handles that are too small or don’t feel secure can be dangerous. A rack that bends easily isn’t ideal. If a pan is hard to clean, you might not want to use it often.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good roasting pan makes cooking enjoyable. You can roast a whole chicken, a turkey, vegetables, or even bake a lasagna. Many pans are oven-safe and broiler-safe. Some can even go on the stovetop. This means you can brown your meat on the stove and then roast it in the oven, all in the same pan. This saves on dishes!
Imagine roasting a beautiful Thanksgiving turkey. A sturdy pan with good handles makes it easy to get the turkey in and out of the oven. The rack keeps the skin crispy. The high sides catch all the delicious juices for gravy. After dinner, if your pan is easy to clean, you can relax instead of scrubbing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for a roasting pan?
A: Stainless steel with a thick core is often recommended. Enameled cast iron is also excellent for even heating.
Q: How big should my roasting pan be?
A: A 13×18 inch pan is good for most needs, including large turkeys. A 9×13 inch pan works for smaller meals.
Q: Do I need a rack with my roasting pan?
A: Yes, a rack helps your food cook evenly and get crispy. It also keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
Q: Can I use metal utensils in my roasting pan?
A: It depends on the material. You can usually use metal with stainless steel and cast iron. Be careful with nonstick coatings as they can scratch.
Q: How do I clean my roasting pan?
A: For stainless steel and cast iron, hot soapy water is usually best. For stubborn bits, you might need a scrub brush. Nonstick pans are often easier to wipe clean.
Q: Can I put my roasting pan on the stovetop?
A: Some pans are designed for stovetop use. Check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: What does “even heating” mean for a roasting pan?
A: Even heating means the pan gets hot all over at the same temperature. This helps your food cook uniformly.
Q: Why are high sides important on a roasting pan?
A: High sides keep juices and splatters inside the pan. This means less mess in your oven and more juice for gravy.
Q: What if my roasting pan doesn’t come with a rack?
A: You can often buy a universal roasting rack separately. Make sure it fits your pan.
Q: Are expensive roasting pans always better?
A: Not always. America’s Test Kitchen often finds great value in well-made pans that aren’t the most expensive. Focus on the features and materials that matter.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!