Have you encountered pans designed for a specific type of food? There are such cookware available--like a pan made for cooking eggs or one for making waffles. Add the lasagna pan to this mix. Lasagna is one of the oldest types of pasta characterized by stacked layers of sauce with meat in-between. The science of a lasagna pan is more for its simplicity but its design is packed with function.
The best lasagna pan is generally wide and deep, keeping in mind the number of people that need additional helpings. As we will discuss later, lasagna pans are made from different materials. Each of these materials will contribute on how the final product will taste after it has finished cooking.
Like all great dishes, a good lasagna depends on the freshness of its ingredients. Pasta, ground beef, cheese, vegetables and herbs together should be well-balanced and should be cooked at 450 F at the least. Also, each ingredient may or may not have a chemical reaction to the material of the pan. If such a reaction takes place, the quality and flavor of the lasagna could be affected.
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- Best overall Lasagna pan: Cuisinart Chef's Classic Enameled Cast Iron Lasagna Pan
- Best alternative Lasagna pan: Emile Henry Lasagna Pan
Why Should You Use Lasagna Pan
If you are familiar with lasagna pans then perhaps you already know that they are not built merely for making lasagna. This type of baking pans is versatile and can cook many different meals such as macaroni and cheese, roasted vegetables and meats, eggs casserole, etc.
While lasagna pans can serve as a multipurpose appliance to cook various recipes, they are also dishwasher safe and can be used to store remaining food in freezers.
Some lasagna pans are built with a multi-section surface, usually around 2 to 3 sections. This feature helps to bake different types of meals at once which comes in handy when you have to please different tastes. Thereby, with a multi-section lasagna pan, you can save a lot of time and money.
It goes without saying, investing in a lasagna pan is always profitable, considering how inexpensive they are and what they can offer.
How To Choose Lasagna Pans
Lasagna has never been this meticulously done. A pan depends on the ingredients that one uses. For example, the ratio of sauce and cheese should be just right so as to not overflow the top of the pan - that is just one of the things that are tested when it comes to lasagna pans. All products are subjective to the consumer but some components are preferred by the majority and considered as standard functions of these cookware.
What Matters in a Pan
Pan depth. Lasagna can get crazy with toppings and several layers. One needs a pan that can handle the cooking of all the flavors that you are planning to put on. Lasagna noodles have an average measurement of 10 inches and therefore having a pan that is at least 13 inches in length and 9 inches in width. These dimensions do not just consider the layers of pasta but also the layer of sauce, toppings and cheese--especially after all of these ingredients have been baked.
Temperature Tolerance. The average baking temperature for lasagna is 375℉. Now, if you plan to cook something else other than lasagna, you might want to consider a pan that can handle temperatures. Most of the pans featured this article can withstand up to 500℉. The pan should help make food retain its heat even after cooking. It is good to have a pan that can withstand high temperatures for baking other purposes.
Non-reactive Interior. A metal material might emit a burnt aftertaste if exposed to heat for too long while ceramic material can have a faded earthy taste which can either enhance or lessen the flavor of the food. Another consideration is making sure that the food slides off the pan easily and does not leave any further damage or rust. We will read more about the different types of lasagna pan materials and non-reactive interiors that fall into the category of making sure that the quality does not change when the food is cooked in the pan.
Material Type
Material | Description |
|---|---|
Metal | It has the subcategories of cast iron and aluminum. In general, metal pans are non-stick. Similar to their glass counterparts, metal pans take time to distribute heat. Instead of distributing heat evenly, cast iron emanates heat in hot spots where it cooks around the food. Some acidic ingredients (like tomato sauce) can have a burnt or metallic taste. This is caused by the reaction of the acid to the metal - where the metal material can seep into the flavor of the food. In our research, it is okay to make lasagna using cast iron materials but the heat is advised to be lowered. |
Glass | Glass pans fair low as heat conductors therefore when cooking, you may want to lower the baking temperature by 25 degrees and cook it for 5-10 minutes longer. These cookware are better when baking and serving because it keeps the food warm. They are time and energy efficient because they are also useful outside the oven. |
Porcelain Enamel | Porcelain enamel is a form of glass that is bonded with another iron, steel or metal. When combined, it creates a durable finish that is less prone to peeling or fading. When it comes to heat, one can rely on a porcelain enamel to distribute heat evenly. Unlike metal pans that react to acidic ingredients, that is not a problem with this material. Please refrain, however, from exposing the pan to extremely hot temperatures.It will pose the risk of melting the porcelain coating. The ideal way of cooking/baking would be to heat food at a lower temperature for a longer time. |
Ceramic | These are the most adhering of all the pans mentioned above. They are non-stick and therefore advisable to clean with soap and water. Heat wise, ceramic pans can withstand temperatures until 800F before their performance or appearance declines. That being said, because these cookware are more commonly made, not a lot of them are accredited (like the FDA). If you are to choose a ceramic pan, make sure it is from a manufacturer that has already standardized quality in making pans. |
The importance of choosing proper cookware for the right occasion is for the purpose of creating the experience of the food - even if it is just a simple get-together at home. With lasagna pans, you can cook not just pasta but also roasts and other baked or roast recipes.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
- Lasagna pans should be cleaned regularly and stored well for maximum performance.
- For cast iron pans, their durability lasts them a long time but it is very important that they are used properly. Metal pans do not stick and easy to clean and durable.
- Soap and some light brushing does the trick. However, when used frequently and not taken cared of properly, it can deteriorate quickly.
- Most lasagna pans are dishwasher safe and should be dried completely before storing in a cool place
Best Lasagna Pan For The Money - Unbiased Review
Cuisinart Classic Enameled Cast Iron Lasagna Pan
Material Type: Enamel Cast Iron
Color: Available in the colors of Black, Cardinal Red, Provincial Blue
This model of a Cuisinart lasagna pan has a porcelain enamel in its interior that seals flavors and scent. Made use of cast iron, the pan has a 2 to 4% of carbon that makes for effective and even cooking.
The pan has a heat retention quality that makes the food hot for a longer time and can transition from oven to stovetop easily in case you would want convenient cooking and preparation. It is through this technology that the pan can go from roasting, baking and broiling without having to transfer food items or ingredients. This lasagna pan can withstand a 500F cooking temperature and have an easy grip
Set includes:
Versatile cooking and baking equipment accompany the lasagna pan including two (2) different sized casseroles, a square grill pan, and a round fry pan.
PROS
CONS
CasaWare Ceramic Coated NonStick Lasagna Pan
Material Type: Ceramic
Color: Available in the colors Blue Granite, Brown Granite, Red Granite, Silver Granite, Cream-Blue, Cream-Green and Cream-Red
Another one of the premium bestsellers, the CasaWare Ceramic pan has become one of my favorite nonstick pans due to its non-stick technology that makes for easy preparation and baking.
It attests to a good experience due to the pan’s high function. Colored-granite makes for convenient baking--This pan features our exclusive Blue Colored Granite ceramic coated easy release baking surface with a double-coated ceramic surface (over 0.6 mm carbon steel).
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Crock Pot Enameled Cast Iron Lasagna Pan
Material Type: Cast iron
Color: Available in the colors Sapphire Blue, Scarlet Red, Slate Gray, Sunset Orange and Teal Ombre
This lasagna pan comes out of Crock Pot’s Artisan Collection that is ideal for cooking, serving, storing and preparing. It is one of the pans that work well on gas stoves and on several cooktop types such as electric, oven, ceramic, and induction.
Heat radiates through the pan that makes for quicker cooking. Cast iron-made materials are known to be very durable and because of this, they are denser than other similar kitchenware. Its versatility makes it possible for you to bring this to different places. Maintenance involves a simple scrub from a firm brush.
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Emile Henry Lasagna/Roasting Dish
Material Type: Ceramic
Color: Available in the colors Burgundy Red, Juniper, Nougat, Sand and Slate
mile Henry is a company that specializes in cookware since 1850. The dish is made from Burgundy Clay that is a high-quality ceramic of superior even-heat diffusion and heat retention properties.
The roasting pan can take an oven heat of up to 520F and is adaptable to different kinds of temperatures. This cookware can go from the freezer, refrigerator to hot even in minutes. Because of its quality, its exterior glaze is not prone to cracking.
Set includes:
Emile Henry 9x9” Square Baking Dish, Emile Henry Oval 6.3 qt Stewpot Dutch Oven, Emile Henry Flame Round Stewpot Dutch Oven, 4.2 Quart
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CorningWare Stoneware Casserole Dish
Material Type: Stoneware
Color: Multicolor
Handcrafted in the USA, the stoneware collection takes inspiration from locally-made pottery dating back to the American Colonial Era. The dish is made from sustainable clay that is eco-friendly with 100% non-toxic and lead-free components. Because of the unique quality of its maker, the interior is water impermeable, chip resistant and durable to last for years.
When it comes to cooking, it does the job by making sure that roast vegetables, pasta and other food are contained with the heat-induced pan–easy carrying handles finish the design.
It is oven, microwave and dishwasher free and can come from the pan to washing in a smooth transition.
Set includes:
Arousing Appetites Loaf Bread Baking Pan with Scalloped Edges, Ceramic Pie Plate Stoneware Round Nonstick Baking Dish (9”)
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Chicago Metallic Professional Lasagna Trio Pan
Material Type: Ceramic
Color: Multicolor
Sporting a unique design, this lasagna trio pan allows the consumer to able to cook different kinds of pasta and dishes at the same time without the risk of scents and flavors intermingling.
Each pan measures 3.5” x 1-1.5” and can each stand up to 450F. It is made from heavy-white aluminum steel for heat conduction and has a silicon-based coating that assures food would not be sticking to the pan. This feature also makes the pan easy to clean.
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USA Nonstick Lasagna Pan
Material Type: Metal
Color: Silver metal
A deep pan that is a commercial grade and aluminized steel. It is has a special corrugated surface design that is specific for air circulation. The pan itself is efficient for even quick baking and consistent with standard high performance. It is made from aluminized steel and heavy gauge steel construction that can last for long periods of time even used frequently.
Easy grip handles means that you can easily take the pan out of the oven and can be ideal for serving.
Set includes: With a lid
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Comparison of The 7 Best Lasagna Pans
Lasagna Pan | Best Features | Set Pieces | Current Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| As part of: 3 Qt Covered Casserole 5 Qt Covered Casserole 5.5 Qt Oval-Covered Casserole 7 Qt Covered Casserole 9.25” Square Grill Pan 10” Round Fry Pan 12” Chicken | ||
|
| N/A | ||
|
| N/A | ||
|
| It can individually but as part of a set with:
9x9” Square Baking Dish
6.3 Qt Oval Stewpot Dutch Oven 4.2 Quart Flame Round Stewpot Dutch Oven | ||
|
| It can individually but as part of a set with:
Loaf Bread Baking Pan with Scalloped Edges Ceramic Pie Plate Stoneware Round Non Stick Baking Dish (9”) | ||
|
| N/A | ||
|
| With lid |
Common Questions I Get Asked About Lasagna Pans
What type of pan is best for lasagna?
When you are choosing your lasagna pan, make sure to consider the dimension, heat resistance and material. As for the dimensions, pick one that is at least 13 inches in length and 9 inches in width. As for temperature tolerance, choose a pan that can withstand temperature up to 500℉ or even higher for safe baking. As for the material, you can go with any of the ones I listed above, whether it’s stainless steel, cast iron, ceramic, etc. Those are well known for delivering high performance.
Are glass lasagna pans better than metal?
Yes and no. Metal is a better heat conductor and distributes heat evenly superior to glass. However, some metals can react with food. While glass takes a long time to heat up and a long time to cool down which comes in handy to keep food warmer without the need for any pre-heating. So, in the end, each material offers unique advantages, just pick one that will suit your need and cooking style.
Can you cook lasagna in an aluminum pan?
Of course, you can cook lasagna pan in almost any aluminum pan. However, there are few things and steps you need to be aware of before attempting any try on cooking your lasagna.
The Final Verdict
With my comprehensive list, I hope to have guided you in judging the best out of the best lasagna pans. Assessing based on the product reviews and ratings, Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Lasagna Pan emerges on top because it covers all the basics of cooking lasagna with style and goes from cooking to serving in minutes.
A gentle reminder: Deciding on what lasagna pan to use, like all things, the criteria will eventually come down to you. After what we have shared above, know the good quality food will always first on the agenda. Everything else eventually goes after that. Enjoy your pasta!