See the Pans I Use to Roast Vegetables
Which is the best pan for roasting vegetables? Read my guide to find out.
One of the best methods of cooking vegetables, especially if you’d like to achieve more in terms of flavor than that found after steaming is by roasting them. This article outlines some of the best pans for roasting vegetable that can help you achieve this. You can go through the list and select what suits your needs perfectly.
Before you can get to the main article, here are a few guidelines on how you can find the best pan for roasting vegetables available in the market.
Sheet Pan For Roasting Vegetables Buying Guide
Before you can get to the best pans for roasting vegetables, if you’d like to have something that cooks delicious veggies, you can use the following guidelines to find the perfect sheet pan that will help you achieve this.
Although they are quite simple pieces of kitchen equipment, with the aid of some useful pointers, shopping for the perfect pan that will be suitable for your needs will be made simpler for you.
- Materials
The best option in terms of materials used to construct a pan is aluminum because it is a good conductor of heat. This is how heat is spread to the food by coming into direct contact. Aluminum pans heat up pretty fast and at the same time the cool rapidly, meaning your food will begin cooking immediately you put it in the oven and it will also stop cooking as soon as it is removed from the oven. Aluminum is also a very durable and affordable choice. There are pans which are made from aluminized steel – imagine stainless steel placed between aluminum- but the end result will be less even.
- Size
A standard half sheet measures 18 by 13 inches, however, not all the pans you’ll come across have these exact measurements. The most vital thing when it comes to size is to make sure that the pans fits well in the oven. Although a slight difference in the measurements will not affect the way the food will be cooked, it will be a wasted purchase in case it doesn’t fit into your oven.
- Coating
Non-stick coating is always the best option. The principle is clearly sound and will help you have an easy time when cleaning it. the challenge is most cheaper coatings have the tendency of pilling off and are particularly not very effective to begin with. Another drawback is that most non-stick trays have darker colors. This will mean that a lot of heat will be radiated and absorbed leaving you with darked baked goods, an outcome which you may not always like to have. When it comes to coating, there is no right or wrong outcome especially if the pan is uncoated. Make sure to choose carefully if you’d like to have the convenience that comes with a non-stick coating. If you’re considering bunging a non-stick sheet, check the pans carefully to avoid those that have PTFE, PFOA or BPA.
- Edges
The superior option without no doubt are rolled edges. They reinforce everywhere on the rim, reducing any chances for the pan to warp when it is heated. When it has poor edging and the temperature changes suddenly, a cheaply made pan will warp easily. Some of the pans available in the market are prone to this.
- Thickness
Thicker pans have lower indicated gauges. Normally, a thicker baking pan will provide you with a better outcome and they will also last for a longer time. Go for a pan whose thickness and overall quality are higher and don’t forget to check out the gauge, keeping in mind that the lower it is the better.
- Consider a Rack
Invest in a wire rack that can slot easily in the pan so that you’ll be able to place layers of your ingredients properly. This will also be helpful when you want to cool down the food. You can use aluminum foil or parchment paper to make your work easier during cleaning.
- Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning, choose a pan for roasting vegetables that is dish-washer friendly. However, it is recommended that you wash the pans by hand and you can prevent all kinds of messy clean-ups by using a good amount of foil or parchment paper.
Top 7 Best Pans For Roasting Vegetables
If you are short on time, watch this video on best pans for roasting vegetables.
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1. Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Baker’s Sheet
This legendary aluminum pan by Nordic Ware half-sheeSt is designed using 100% aluminum which is very durable. The pan feature galvanized steel ridges that help transform it into a robust sheet pan which cannot get rust or wear out.
It has dimensions of 16 ½ by 11 1/3 by 1 inch on the inside, meaning that there will be enough room for any kind of dish you’d like to bake or roast from cookies to vegetables.
If you would like to use your pan for something else other than roasting vegetables, you can bake a cake because the aluminum used in constructing it conducts heat well which in turn will help to optimize rising while its steel rims ensure that warping doesn’t occur which may cause both the cake and pan to be ruined.
Pros
- Durability: the pan is made from rust free aluminum offering great performance and guarantees longevity at the same time.
- Multiple Options: They range from quarter-sheet to half-sheet pans and double to single packs.
- Multipurpose: You can use the pan to roast, bake, warm or toast different kinds of foods.
Cons
- The pans are not dishwasher friendly so be sure to hand wash them
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2. USA Bakeware Half-Sheet Pan
Like the name suggests, this product is completely American and it happens to be another perfect pan in terms of performance whether you intend on using it to roast your vegetables or bake some cakes. It has a corrugated which is great for optimizing airflow providing you with the perfect cookies and cakes each time you use it.
It is available in a variety of half-sheet options including a regular pan, a lidded pin, a baking rack as well a baking mat. If you want to experience the best value for your money, go for the 2-pack option.
The is the best pan for roasting vegetables because its high-quality aluminized steel has a lifetime guarantee and its non-stick coating doesn’t contain any contaminants so you can cook without worrying about your health.
Pros
- US-Made: It is constructed and designed in the US by very trustworthy manufacturers
- Non-Stick and Safe: The pan has a Silicone coating which is free from PTFE, PFOA or BPA offering you a non-stick experience without worrying about health hazards
Cons
- The pan can warp easily when used to broil regularly so avoid using it in a way that can destroy it
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3. TeamFar Cookie Sheet
If you’d like to have the best pan for roasting vegetables that is made from a different material from aluminum, this is a great choice because it is stainless steel and performs well in terms of roasting and baking. It is constructed from toxic free materials and can easily be cleaned by hand and is also dishwasher friendly.
Although the sheet has a stamp of 18/0, we found that it was slightly thinner than most baking sheet but it still provided high quality and great results at a very affordable price range.
If you’re going to use it in high temperatures, expect it to have a bit of warping temporarily and because of this, it will be better if you do not use it when preparing juicier foods since there might be some spillage and seepage.
Pros
- Multifunctional: Can be used in different ways like as a single pan which is perfect for someone with enough storage space in the kitchen
- Easy Clean-Up: Since the pan has deep sides, it means that food will stay in it which is great for easy cleaning
- Exceptional Build Quality: Designed from magnetic stainless steel which is free from toxins and has a smooth mirrored finishing
Cons
- Can warp easily especially when used in high temperatures though it will regain its original shape after cooling down
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4. Vollrath Half-Size Sheet Pan
If you want something that will provide you with a similar experience with that of a professional bakery, then this rugged thirteen-gauge sheet pan made from aluminum is what you’re looking for. It’s available in a wide range from a single pan to a 3-pack or 12-pack depending on what you prefer, plus the design allows stacking which is perfect for someone with limited storage space in the kitchen.
You’ll be left with even and crisp results with a pale color because the sheet is designed to prevent your goods from overbrowning. Durability is quite unbeatable and the ability to conduct heat is very exceptional.
The only drawback you’ll experience is when you want to clean the pan by hand which can barely be considered to be a deal breaker since the mess that may result from cooking will slide off easily.
Pros
- Space-Saving: The stackable design will easily fit into any baker’s rack
- Professional Grade: The 13-guage aluminum is of higher-quality than most cookware found at home
- Very Conductive: Material conducts heat with ease which is good for baking
Cons
- Not dishwasher friendly which will limit you to hand washing and sanitizing so that the pan doesn’t get spoiled
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5. Chicago Metallic Uncoated Jelly Roll Pan
This Chicago classic single sheet pan which is great for baking cakes and jelly rolls, cookies, roasting numerous layers of vegetables or even cooking a complete meal. There are different pan sizes but we prefer the 16 ¾ by 12 by 1 inch one. You can go for the alternatives which are slightly smaller at 12 ¼ by 8 ¼ by 1 inch or the 15 ¾ by 13 ¾ by 1 inch.
Since the pans are uncoated, you don’t have to worry about the dangers that come with some of the non-stick pans available in the market although it’s safer to use parchment paper in order to avoid a lot of mess or food sticking onto it. It is dishwasher friendly, but it’s recommended that you hand wash it instead.
Pros
- Uncoated Surface: There are no coatings on the surface of this pan
- Substantial Single Sheet: Larger cooking space which is best suited for cookies or jelly rolls and can also handle a full platter of roasted veggies
- Dishwasher Friendly: You can wash it in the dish washer although the manufacturer recommends that you hand wash it instead
Cons
- There are cases where oxidization occurred though we didn’t experience it while conducting our tests
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6. Focus FoodService Half-Sheet Pan
This half-sheet pan is another commercial-grade product that can be found at an affordable price, and you can select from a 2-pack or 3-pack depending on your needs. The construction is triple-tiered providing both durability and great performance ensuring that everything you cook comes out evenly done, if you follow the recipe properly of course!
However, there are customers who stated that the pan tends to discolor over time. But if you put this slight niggle aside, the pan had a lot of positive reviews and after our tests we found that it works pretty well.
Pros
- Heat Distribution: Has a concave bottom which provides you with even baking results each time you use it
- Innovative Use if Materials: Has a 3-layer construction with carbon steel, aluminum alloy which is reinforced with a wire underneath it
- Great Value: Its hard-hitting performance as well as the affordable price point gives it a dual win
Cons
- There were several complaints regarding discoloration
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7. Calphalon Roasting Rack
This is the final product on our list of the best pans for roasting vegetables. If you prefer the finer things that life offers then this roasting rack is a great asset for any kitchen. It has two layers of stainless steel on both sides of the aluminum core, meaning that it is very durable and its rack is also perfect for slipping in the oven and air circulation.
The non-stick material can be used alongside different kinds of kitchen utensils, making it a very versatile and maintenance-free roasting rack. Whether you intend to use it to roast your vegetables or a whole chicken, this rack is worth investing in as it comes inclusive of a lifetime guarantee.
Pros
- Size: Roasting rack is substantial enough and can accommodate a 25-pound turkey or chicken
- Build Quality: A combination of stainless steel and aluminum providing you with the best of both worlds
- Brand Heritage: Calphalon is a trustworthy name in the kitchen industry
Cons
- Very expensive but when you think about it, it provides excellent results for its overall value
What Vegetables Should You Roast?
The best thing about this is that most kinds of vegetables can be roasted. As you’ll come to learn and as most guides will back up, the process is an easy five step method that doesn’t offer enough room for messing up. The best way to ensure your vegetables roast effectively is to put them in groups according to their cooking times.
Shorter Cooking Time of 20 to 25 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit
Brassica Flowers and Brassica Buds
Don’t let the name confuse you. The foods being mentioned in this category are broccoli, brussels sprouts and cauliflower. All the vegetables mentioned have a delightful crisp and brown result within at least 20 minutes. As with cooking in general, don’t shy away from tweaking the time if you’d like them a bit browner. You can leave them for an additional 5 minutes and they’ll be ready to go!
Mushrooms
From Portobello to Porcini mushrooms through to shitakes to chanterelles, mushrooms that are a little softer will also need to be roasted for 20 to 25 minutes.
Longer Cooking Time of 45 minutes at 425 Degrees Fahrenheit
Alliums
Onions and garlic, not forgetting about leeks and shallots all require a little more time in the oven. Use the right high heat but be sure to let them cook for at least 45 minutes so that you can get the best results. When it comes to onions, peel off the skin first then add some seasoning before you begin roasting them. If you want them to become browner, leave the skin on.
Roots and Tubers
From parsnips and potatoes to beets, carrots and yams, root vegetables and tubers also need to be cooked for a little longer. You won’t be disappointed with the results since you’ll have succulent vegetables which your kids will also love.
Squashes
Butternut and pumpkin are the most popular kinds of squash in the market. If you’d like to experience some exotic veggies, go for something like acorn, kabocha or delicata. Just like all the other squashes, you’ll have to cook them for a little longer but the final product will be worth your while.
Don’t be afraid to try out some new recipes, get creative. There are no veggies that don’t respond well to being cooked within half an hour, and if you use the best pan for roasting vegetables at the right temperature, you’re sure to enjoy your delicacy.
How to Roast Vegetables
1. Select the Vegetables
Since every vegetable need to be roasted using different speeds and time, you have to sort them in the right groups. Broccoli, mushrooms and cabbages fall in one group because they require close to 25 minutes to roast well. On the other hand, potatoes, parsnips, carrots and onions need at least 45 minutes to roast properly so you can group them separately. Use two different trays so that you don’t have to make a lot of mess as you try to remove the first batch of veggies so that you can use the pan to prepare the second one.
2. Prepare Your Vegetables
Since you definitely want your vegetables to cook consistently and evenly, cut them into similar sizes and shapes. Once you’re done prepping the vegetables, layer them onto the baking pan.
3. Arrange and Season Your Vegetables
While it can be tempting to just cram up as much vegetables as you’d like onto the pan, it would be a bad move. You can definitely fill the pan but ensure that the vegetables aren’t stacked up because it can lead to uneven cooking. Use a parchment paper to prevent the pan from being messed up. Ensure that all the vegetables are in contact with the baking pan. You can season them with some olive oil. This is not only a healthy choice but you’ll discover that it’s a great way of helping heat spread properly at the bottom of the pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt onto the vegetable for taste.
4. Pop Your Vegetables in The Oven
Cook the first batch of veggies at 425 Degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes on the lowest shelf in the oven. Make sure to remove and flip over the veggies at midway point. You can then add the other batch comprising of brassicas and mushrooms as mentioned above since they only need half the time to be cooked.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove the skin off your onions, add some olive oil, salt and lemon juice as well as some herbs you like before serving them with any cut of your preferred meat.
Conclusion
By now you should be able to introduce a variety of veggies to your diet. If your children don’t like eating their vegetables, you can try roasting them since it’s a better way of making them enjoy them without holding their noses while eating sprouts like they have poison.
If you spend a bit more of your time to avoid selecting a poor quality and cheap pan which might end up warping in the long run forcing you to throw it away within a week if being used, the best trays for roasting vegetables will provide you perfect service, that is why you should always remember to use some aluminum foil or parchment paper.