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Size of roasting pan for turkey


What Size Roasting Pan Do You Need?

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 they're 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? We've got a few practical tips to help you select the right size roasting pan for your kitchen.

What Sizes Do Roasting Pans Come In?

Typically, roasting pans for residential kitchens come in three sizes: 14, 16, and 18 inches. It is worth noting that these measurements are taken width-wise, not diagonally, so make sure you plan accordingly when shopping for one.

14 Inches

14-inch roasting pans are usually the smallest size you'll find in most home good stores and similar retailers. These are great to have on-hand for roasting smaller portions of foods, such as sides of vegetables or potatoes. They're also ideal for smaller ovens that may not be able to accommodate larger pans.

If you'll be using your roasting pan for a whole turkey, a 14-inch pan can typically accommodate a bird of up to about 12 pounds.

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 you'll 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 you'll want to measure and make sure that a pan this large will fit in your oven properly.

How to Choose the Best Size Roasting Pan

There's a lot to keep in mind when it comes to selecting a roasting pan. If you have the space and the means, it's generally best to keep a variety of roasting pan sizes in your kitchen. This way, you'll always have access to the size you need. If you don't have a lot of space to work with or simply want to stick with one pan, then most home cooks will find that a medium-sized (16-inch) pan works well for most recipes.

Choose the Right Material

Aside from picking the right size roasting pan, you'll want to select a quality material as well. Copper and Stainless Steel are two popular options that provide steady heat without being too heavy. Cast Iron is another option, but they do tend to be on the heavier side and can thus be more difficult to work with and maneuver in and out of the oven.

We prefer Carbon Steel. Not only does it conduct heat well, but it is oven safe to higher temperatures, lighter weight, and pretty much indestructible.

Watch the Depth of the Pan

It's not just about the size of the pan, but its depth as well. If your pan is too deep, you won't be able to get a nice roast on your food. On the other hand, a pan that is too shallow will be prone to spillage, especially if you're doing any braising or cooking with liquids.

Make Sure You Have a Rack

Last but not least, choose a roasting pan with a built-in rack. This will keep your ingredients slightly raised from the bottom of the pan, preventing them from getting soggy and ensuring more even roasting. For added convenience, look for a removable rack.

Ready to Shop?

With these tips in mind, you can choose the right roasting pan for your needs and budget. Check out our Carbon Steel Roasting Pan, which comes with a roasting rack to ensure even heating and is sure to be your go-to roasting pan for meals all year round.

Best turkey roasting pan: 5 fabulous finds to invest in

(Image credit: Wayfair)

When it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas, how good (or bad) your turkey turns out either makes the holiday or ruins it. 

The best turkey roasting pan is essential for roasting – but also deep-fat frying and grilling. And, while these pans come in all shapes and sizes, a perfect turkey roasting pan will evenly distribute heat and help retain moisture through the meat. 

Now, how to separate the best turkey roasting pan from any old pan? That's where the Homes & Gardens team comes into play. We've done the hard work for you and found the five best turkey roasting pans on sale today.

The 5 best turkey roasting pans on the market

(Image credit: Sur La Table)

1. All-Clad Stainless Steel Roasting Pan With Nonstick Rack

The best turkey roasting pan: a heavy-duty stainless steel selection marked down

Specifications

Capacity: 6.3 quart

Exterior Finish: Stainless Steel

Oven Temperature Threshold: 600 Degrees

Product Type: Roaster

Reasons to buy

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Heavy-duty stainless steel

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A non-stick roasting rack is ultra-durable

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Warp-resistant strength

Reasons to avoid

Today's Best Deals

The All-Clad large roaster with a rack is an essential buy for those looking to cook a larger-sized turkey. With the capacity to hold up to 25 pounds, the heavy-duty stainless-steel model is ultra-durable. 

Why do we love it? 

This turkey roasting pan is exceptional for holiday cooking but also could work on a regular basis. Suitable for use with electric and gas stoves, the lidless model has a V-shaped nonstick rack that promotes even heating and makes it easy to collect natural juices. 

Plus, when not in use it will safely and seamlessly store in any cabinet or shelf due to its smart shape. 

The design

As we previously mentioned, the stainless steel construction gives this roasting pan a strong, durable base that's elevated with tall V-shaped sides to prevent spilling and upright handles to ensure secure holding. With wrap-resistant strength and a polished finish, it is a terrific investment for anyone. 

(Image credit: Amazon)

2. Cuisinart Chef's Classic 16-Inch Stainless Steel Roaster

The best turkey roasting pan: a no-lid stainless steel selection that works remarkably

Specifications

Exterior Finish: Stainless steel

Set Size: 1 piece

Lid type: No lid

Cookware Handle Construction: Riveted

Reasons to buy

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Evenly distributes heat

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Stainless steel construction

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holds up to a 20lb turkey

Reasons to avoid

-

Empty List

Today's Best Deals

When it comes to the Cuisinart Chef's Classic 16-inch Stainless Steel Roasterm, versatility reigns supreme.  

Why do we love it? 

Unlike traditional models, this turkey roasting pan is sensational when used for Thanksgiving use, but it is exceptional when used in day-to-day life. Users can cook meat or kinds of pasta, large roasts, and casseroles anytime, anywhere. 

With its stainless steel construction, like All-Clad's roasting pan, this model also fits into standard ovens and can hold a turkey up to 20lbs. 

The design

This Solid cast stainless steel side handles are contoured for comfort and balance and riveted for strength. Its durable construction is microwavable-safe and Includes a U-shaped stainless steel rack. With a lifetime warranty guaranteed, it's a low-lift risk when opting for this roasting pan. 

(Image credit: Amazon)

3. Rachel Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick Roaster

The best turkey roasting pan: A perfectly polished pan that is budget-friendly

Specifications

Item weight: 3. 4lbs

Shape: Rectangular

Baking cooking surface: nonstick

Features: Riveted Handle, Nonstick

Care & Cleaning: Hand Wash, Oven-Safe up to 450 Degrees

Reasons to buy

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Rectangular shape 

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Nonstick surface

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Safe up to 450-degrees

Reasons to avoid

-

Empty List

Today's Best Deals

Bring on big family roasts, turkeys, hams, and more with this super functional and easy handling Rachael Ray Nonstick Roasting Pan with Reversible Rack.

Why do we love it? 

We love how this model proves you don't have to break the bank for the best turkey roasting pan; all you have to do is opt for this budget-friendly version. Instead, it reviews a near-perfect 4.75-rating, and reviewers continuously praise this "perfect purchase" for how "high-quality" it is. 

The design

This versatile turkey roasting pan can be used in more ways than one; sure, it will cook your Thanksgiving turkey, but it's also suitable for large cuts of meat and poultry on any night. Featuring a reversible rack, this pan keeps food from falling, and creates a crisp, even brown layer. 

Here, both the roasting pan and rack feature high-quality nonstick for easy food release and fast cleanup. Safe for up to 450-degrees, the wide handles offer comfort and control; this model is a top contender without the hefty price tag. 

(Image credit: Amazon)

4. Anolon Triply Clad Stainless Steel Roaster

The best turkey roasting pan: An investment pan worth every single cent

Specifications

Item weight: 10.54 pounds

Product dimensions: 20.3 x 16 x 5.95 inches

Material: Stainless steel

Reasons to buy

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Durable three-ply construction

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 Aluminum Core

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Easy grip handles

Reasons to avoid

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Empty List

Today's Best Deals

There's a lot to love about the Anolon Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel roaster, but primarily that it prides itself on optimal heat distribution and comfort.  

Why do we love it? 

Compared to most turkey roasting pans, this model is broiler and oven safe up to 500-degree, making it 50-degree higher than the rest. With a nonstick roasting rack to release roasts effortlessly, we also are privy to the easy-lift handles.  

The design

This turkey roasting pan features durable triple-layer construction, with an aluminum core surrounded by layers of stainless steel for optimal heat distribution; ideal for all stovetops, including induction. With comfortable stainless steel handles (for long-lasting durability and comfort) with stain-proof stainless steel rivets. 

(Image credit: Wayfair)

5. Range Kleen 17 in. Steel Broiler Pan

The best turkey roasting pan: A fan-favorite choice that's under $25

Specifications

Type: Broiler pan

Shape: Rectangle

Material: Steel

Nonstick: Yes

PFOA free: yes

Reasons to buy

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Under $25

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A nonstick rectangle pan that is PFOA free

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Constructed from durable steel

Reasons to avoid

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Empty List

Today's Best Deals

Naturally, we saved the best for last, the Range Kleen 17-inches Steel Broiler Pan. It's cost-efficient, highly rated, and is compatible with electric coil cooktops and gas stoves.

Why do we love it? 

Durable and reliable, this nonstick pan will seamlessly cook any holiday meal and do so fearlessly, thanks to its nonstick features. Suitable for up to 20 pounds, this pan can serve larger-sized gatherings without issue. Plus, with an easy-to-clean model and one-year warranty, it's risk-free. 

The design

This turkey roasting pan measures 17-inches; crafted from durable stainless steel, and weighs no more than 2.8 pounds. While there isn't an included rack, customers still claim it's "one of the best options on the market." With a 'heavy gauge' and 'combination baking pan and broiler', it's a no-brainer that this under $25 is worth every penny. 

How to pick the best turkey roasting pan?

It's not that finding the best turkey roasting pan is difficult, the issue is finding one that's worthwhile and lives up to your expectation. To find the 'best' model boils down to nothing more than what your specific needs are and will be. 

For instance, if you are hosting a larger-sized family fathering over the holidays, you'll want to consider the thickness of the roasting pan's walls and the height of its handles. The reason for this? This is to ensure that you can maintain a firm grip when putting the turkey in and taking it out of the oven. 

How do you decide what turkey roasting pan size is best for you?

What type of turkey roasting pan do you need?

The most important factor when selecting the best turkey roasting pan is finding the proper type of material. The two best materials for a roasting pan are copper and stainless steel. These materials are durable and remain light enough to get the turkey in-and-out of the oven.  

Brittany Romano wrote for Homes & Gardens as a U.S. Shopping Editor. A graduate of New England College, Brittany started her career as a freelance fashion market assistant at Marie Claire. She later joined AMI, where she designed a highly profitable commerce vertical. Noted for her award-winning content, she's covered everything from celebrity beauty hacks to the most lavish home decor.

Five rules for cooking a roasted turkey

Snezhana Shabanova

Baked turkey, a traditional dish of big family holidays in the USA, is becoming popular among our compatriots. This is not surprising, because turkey meat can be attributed to dietary products.

Nevertheless, looking at the weighty carcass of this bird, it seems that a juicy and tasty dish cannot be prepared from it. Nothing like this! Everything will work out if you follow the following rules.

Do not stuff

Despite the fact that cookbooks and specialized forums are full of recipes for stuffed turkey, it is better to refuse this idea. Due to the shape of the inside of the bird, the filling of cannot be cooked evenly on - except for a small amount that will definitely come out.

If you persist and use a kitchen thermometer, the turkey will be overcooked and dry by the time the stuffing is done.

The best option is to prepare a vegetable side dish and sauce from the juice released during baking.

Salt, pepper, spread

Without fanaticism! For a turkey weighing between eight and nine kilograms, a teaspoon of salt and the same amount of spices will suffice. Herbs and spices that you usually use for chicken will do.

Rub the salt and seasoning mixture generously on the inside and outside of the turkey . In addition, through small incisions, you can put pieces of butter or a couple of tablespoons of olive oil under the skin - on the breast and thighs of the turkey. This will allow the meat to retain its juiciness.

Brush the outside of the bird with oil and prepare for roasting. No need to smear the skin with mayonnaise or sour cream! These foods will burn and bake into black streaks long before the bird is done.

Pack

The turkey will cook for a long time - and it needs to keep a decent appearance. Pull up the ends of the wings and lay them on the bird's breast, tucking the tips into small incisions. Tie the legs of the bird together with kitchen string . This guarantees uniform cooking and a beautiful shape of the finished bird.

Cover the turkey breast with foil to allow the thick layer of meat on it to cook evenly without burning. Remove the foil shortly before cooking so that the skin on the breast has time to brown.

Cook slowly

Leave the turkey ready to roast for an hour at room temperature. At this time, prepare the brazier: put celery stalks, carrot slices and onion cut into large rings on the bottom.

Place the turkey breast-side up on top of the vegetables and pour into the bottom of the frypot water or vegetable broth 1/2-2 cm layer. This will keep the bird juicy - you can baste it with hot broth during cooking.

Cook the turkey at about 160 degrees . If you have a convection oven, reduce the heat by another ten degrees.

One kg of turkey will take approximately 40 minutes to cook . A bird weighing from four to six kg will cook for about three hours. From six to seven kg - three and a half hours. Seven to eight is four hours. Eight to nine is four and a half.

You can check the doneness of a turkey in two easy ways:

Let her rest

Do not serve turkey on the table piping hot. Cover the whole bird with foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes. Do not worry that your dish will cool down: a carcass of this size can stay hot for up to 40 minutes.

While the turkey is “resting”, the meat becomes more tender. During this time, you will have time to finish cooking the side dish and arrange the plates.

Bon appetit!

Turkey with mushrooms: cooking recipes

There are a huge number of recipes for cooking turkey dishes that can be cooked with vegetables, mushrooms or a side dish. If you want to cook a dietary and light dish, then a turkey with vegetables will be an excellent option for a balanced lunch.

The recipe for turkey baked with mushrooms, cheese, tomatoes in the oven is in great demand. This dish will appeal not only to adults, but also to children. It is quick to prepare and can be served not only for lunch or dinner, but also on the festive table.

And due to the low calorie content, a baked turkey with mushrooms can be included in your diet even for people on a diet. The article describes recipes for turkey meat dishes and various variations of their preparation.

Tender turkey in cheese and mushroom sauce

Poultry meat cooked in cheese-mushroom sauce is tender, juicy and creamy. Be sure to cook this dish for dinner with your family.

Ingredients:

Steps to cook turkey steak:

  1. First, prepare the mushrooms, rinse them well under water, remove the top skin, set aside and allow excess moisture to drain. Rinse the turkey fillet, dip excess water with a paper towel, cut into small pieces of the same thickness.
  2. The best way to cook this dish is in a skillet with high sides and a thick bottom, so the meat cooks evenly and the cheese sauce doesn't run out.
  3. Before cooking, pour oil into a frying pan, add finely chopped garlic and heat well.
  4. Once the garlic has turned golden, take it out of the oil.
  5. Then fry the turkey fillet in the same pan until golden brown.
  6. While the meat is cooking, cut the mushrooms into small, thin plates, and the onion into half rings.
  7. Add onion to the pan with meat, fry over low heat until translucent.
  8. Then add the thinly sliced ​​mushrooms and cook for 10 minutes, until the moisture from the mushrooms is gone.

Now let's move on to making the cheese sauce. In a bowl, mix sour cream or cream, pepper, salt, add melted cheese. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water.


Pour the meat with onions with the prepared sauce, then cover with a lid and leave to simmer over low heat until fully cooked for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally so that the meat and mushrooms do not burn. The finished dish is served hot. Mashed potatoes are a good side dish for a hearty mushroom gravy, but you can use any side dish you like.

Turkey wings with mushrooms and potatoes

This dish is not only tasty, but also quite satisfying, making it ideal as a lunch to replenish energy costs and gain strength for the rest of the day.

Ingredients:

Cooking process:

  1. Pour oil into a deep pan with a thick bottom, heat well, fry vegetables cut into small pieces.
  2. Then add the wings to the oven, salt and pepper, cover and cook for 60 minutes until the meat and potatoes are fully cooked.

Sprinkle generously with herbs before serving.

Turkey fillet with mushrooms and curry

Tender and spicy, thanks to curry spices, the dish will definitely appeal to the whole family. Be sure to cook it for your loved ones.

Ingredients:

French turkey recipe with mushrooms:

  1. Mix starch and 150 ml in a deep bowl. water, mix well and set aside.
  2. Wash, peel and cut the vegetables into medium-sized pieces. Separate the cauliflower into florets.
  3. Finely chop the onion into cubes, cut the mushrooms into thin slices.
  4. Wash the turkey fillet, dry it, cut into small slices of the same size.
  5. Pour oil into a frying pan, heat well, lay out the meat and fry until a long-awaited crust forms.
  6. When the turkey releases its juice, it should be peppered, salted, curried and simmered for 7 minutes.
  7. Add prepared vegetables and mushrooms to meat, pour cream or sour cream and a mixture of water and starch prepared in advance.
  8. Mix thoroughly, bring to a boil.
  9. Once the dish has come to a boil, add one egg, stirring vigorously until the egg has set.
  10. Then reduce the heat and simmer the dish for about 15 minutes.
  11. At this time, prepare a baking dish. When the vegetables in the dish are “al dente”, transfer to a mold, sprinkle with hard cheese on top and put in an oven heated to 180 degrees for 20 minutes.

Serve hot with or without garnish - your choice.

Turkey thighs stuffed with mushrooms

Such a dish will easily take the main place on the festive table. Beautiful, hearty and juicy turkey thighs stuffed with mushrooms will definitely make guests ask you for the recipe for this dish.

Ingredients:

Cooking steps:

  1. Rinse and dry the thighs, make a small incision at the base of the bone, then pull the skin off, making a small pocket.
  2. Mushrooms and onions cut into small cubes, fry in sunflower oil until half cooked, salt and pepper.
  3. Fill the pockets of the thighs with the stuffing, transfer them to a baking dish and cook in an oven preheated to 170 degrees for 40 minutes.

The readiness of the meat can be determined by the presence of a golden crisp on the surface of the thighs.

Turkey fillet with mushrooms in dough

Although this dish does not take long to prepare, its taste will surprise you and your family will ask for more. The meat in the dough is incredibly juicy and tender.

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