4 Of The Best Pans for Broiling – My Favorite Picks
Broiling is a cooking method that involves high heat and quick cooking time, which results in deliciously caramelized and flavorful dishes. The key to getting that savory goodness is to have the right pan. But with so many options out there, it can take time to figure out what to opt for.
That’s why I’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation and listed my top four broiling pans after extensive research. From materials to design, I examined every aspect in detail to give you the most comprehensive guide for the best broiler pans available.
So, let’s get ready to step up your broiling game and impress your taste buds with these quality pans!
Here’s an overview of the broiling pans we will be taking a look at:
Why You Need A Broiler Pan
A broiler pan is a must-have for any home cook who enjoys cooking healthy and delicious meals. Unlike traditional baking sheets and roasting pans, these pans are designed specifically for the broiling technique, which involves a quick cooking time at high heat to preserve the food’s essential flavors and nutrients.
These pans are typically built out of heavy-duty materials that are durable and easy to clean. Using a broiler pan not only improves the taste and texture of your dishes, but also makes the cooking process easier and more efficient.
What Pan To Use For Broiling
When it comes to choosing the best pans for broiling, there are a few key factors to consider first:
Material
Look for a pan that can withstand high heat and is made of a material that distributes heat evenly. Stainless steel and cast iron are both excellent options. While ceramic and non-stick coatings can also be good choices, they may not be as durable as the former ones.
Design
There are many designs available in the market, but the best to opt for is the slotted one. This design helps prevent the food from becoming soggy and promotes even cooking. It also helps avoid excessive spatter and smoke while cooking.
Size
Choose a pan that is large enough to accommodate the food you want to broil. Make sure it fits in your oven as well.
Durability
A sturdy and well-made pan will last longer and be a better investment in the long run. Keep an eye out for heavy and thick pans. The heavier the pan is, the better it will be able to retain heat. This can help you cook more evenly and efficiently.
Ease of Cleaning
Broiling can create a lot of mess, so pick a pan that is easy to clean. Non-stick coatings and dishwasher safe options can make the cleaning process much easier.
Price
Consider your budget and what features you need in a broiler pan before picking one. If you’re looking for something inexpensive, consider getting a more simple and basic option. However, if you want an option with more features — such as adjustable racks and a removable drip pan — you will need to spend a little more on the premium ones.
Here Are The Best Pans for Broiling
Based on my own testing and community feedback, the following are some of the most reliable and quality pans you can purchase right now:
Range Kleen Broiler Pan With Black Porcelain Coated Steel
- Brand: Range Kleen
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Oven Safe Up To: 552 °C
- Weight: 2.95 Pounds
- Finish/Coating: Porcelain
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
The Range Kleen broiler pan is a top-of-the-line option that features a black porcelain-coated steel construction which not only adds strength but also makes them easy to clean. The pan also comes with a removable rack that allows optimal broiling and easy cleaning.
The slotted top design ensures that excess fat and juices drain away from the food, resulting in perfectly crisp and evenly cooked dishes. This pan is dishwasher safe and can withstand temperatures up to 1,025 degrees Fahrenheit (552 °C), making it a reliable and versatile addition to any kitchen.
Testing and Community Feedback
The pans are quite versatile and can be used for baking and outdoor cooking. Since the pan isn’t very thick, it occasionally warps but eventually straightens out as well. However, due to its small size, it might not be suitable for a large family or bigger meal portions.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Moderate weight and easy to move around
- Versatile and reliable
- High heat tolerance
Cons
- Not suitable for big families
- Pan is slightly smaller in size than others
GE Appliances Genuine OEM Broiler Pan
- Brand: General Electric
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Oven Safe Up To: 287 °C
- Weight: 0.01 Pounds
- Finish/Coating: Non-Stick
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
The GE Broiler Pan is a genuine OEM product that is specifically designed for use with GE range, stove, and oven models. This high-quality broiler pan features heavy-duty steel construction and a non-stick coating for easy food release and cleaning.
The slotted top design allows for optimal broiling and drainage, while the large size ensures that you can cook more significant portions of food at once. Whether you’re broiling steaks, chicken, or vegetables, this pan will surely deliver excellent results every time.
Testing and Community Feedback
The pan top sheet is designed with a vent-like slot to properly drain the oil. This pan’s edges are a bit rougher rather than rounded and smooth. This can result in minor cuts and injuries while handling. Due to its lighter weight, the pan is easier to handle but lacks durability and is more sensitive to warping. As for quality, the product is acceptable and can last for several years, making it an ideal choice for consumers on a tight budget.
Pros
- Quick and even heat distribution
- Suitable for large meal portions
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Not easy to wash and handle
- Easy to warp, durability could be better
Whirlpool Genuine Broiler Pan Standard Size
- Brand: Whirlpool
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Oven Safe Up To: 287 °C
- Weight: 3 Pounds
- Finish/Coating: Porcelain
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
This sleek, designed whirlpool pan is the optimal choice to handle your everyday broiling needs with ease. This pan is made of a durable stainless steel base with a heavy-duty porcelain finish. The pan measures approximately 16.75 x 12.75 inches, making it suitable for most standard ovens.
Additionally, the pan comes with a roasting rack and a metal grid, so you can broil pretty much any food item (vegetables, meat, poultry, etc.) using it. Both rack and grid are removable, so you can easily clean and store the pan after use. The pan is dishwasher safe, but handwashing is recommended for best results.
Testing and Community Feedback
Many customers who have purchased the Whirlpool broiler pan report that it is well-made, durable, and easy to use. Some have commented that the non-stick surface works well and prevents food from sticking to the pan. However, a few customers have reported that the pan is not as sturdy as they had hoped and that it may warp or bend after extended use.
Overall, the Whirlpool Genuine (OEM) Premium Broiler Pan appears to be a solid choice for anyone in need of a replacement broiler pan for their ovens. While it may not be the most heavy-duty option on the market, it is well-made and functional for most home cooking needs.
Pros
- Even heat distribution
- Compatible with a wide range of ovens
- Good value for money
- Versatile and durable
Cons
- Somewhat difficult to clean
- Ideal for smaller meal portions
- Lightweight and sensitive to warping
Frigidaire Range Stove & Oven Broiler Pan
- Brand: Frigidaire
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Oven Safe Up To: 287 °C
- Weight: 2.5 Pounds
- Finish/Coating: Ceramic Non-Stick
- Dishwasher Safe: No
If you want an aesthetically pleasing and durable set for your kitchen, then the Frigidaire boiler is the best choice for you. This item is made with a durable base material and a non-stick surface for easy food release and quick clean up. The design is also very versatile, allowing it to be used on both gas stoves and ovens.
Testing and Community Feedback
The Frigidaire broiler pan is a reliable and efficient choice that works well for cooking a variety of meals. The non-stick material allows easy cleaning and maintenance, but can be damaged by high heat or sharp utensils.
One of the stand-out features about this pan is its deep basin pan, which is large enough to accommodate different types of food. Overall, it is a great product, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable broiler pan that does the job well.
Pros
- A beautiful addition to any kitchen
- Suitable for gas stoves, ranges, and ovens
- Lightweight and easy to work with
- High heat resistance without warping
Cons
- Difficult to clean up
FAQs
Is it necessary to preheat broiler pans before use?
Yes, broiler pans need to be preheated before use. Preheating the pan allows it to get hot enough to properly sear the food and keep it from sticking to the pan as well. It is recommended to preheat the pan for at least 5 – 10 minutes before placing the food on it for broiling.
Is broiling healthier than pan frying?
Broiling and pan frying are both healthy cooking methods, but it ultimately depends on the specific food being cooked and how it is prepared. In general, broiling tends to be a more beneficial cooking method as it allows excess fat to drip away from the food, while pan frying can require the use of more oil or butter. However, if the food being broiled is heavily seasoned or coated in oil or butter, it may not be any healthier than pan frying.
Is grilling the same as broiling?
Grilling and broiling are similar cooking methods that both use high heat for cooking food. However, grilling typically involves cooking food on a grate over an open flame or hot coals, while broiling involves cooking food directly under a heat source, such as a broiler element in an oven. The main difference between the two methods is the direction of heat – grilling comes from below, and broiling comes from above.
Do you need a special pan to broil?
You don’t necessarily need a special pan to broil, but it is recommended to use a broiler pan to achieve the best results. A wire rack on a baking sheet can also achieve similar results by elevating the food and allowing air to circulate around it.
What can I use if I don’t have a broiler pan?
If you don’t have a broiler pan, you can use a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet as a substitute. However, it is important to keep in mind that these alternatives may not be as effective as using a broiler pan itself.
How do I know if a pan is broiler safe?
Look for pans made of materials that can withstand high heat, such as cast iron, stainless steel, or porcelain enamel. Additionally, pans that are labelled oven safe may also be suitable for broiling. However, It is important to note that not all oven-safe pans are broiler safe, so it is best to contact the manufacturer to confirm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right pan for broiling can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your dishes. The four pans reviewed in this article offer excellent options for achieving perfectly broiled dishes.
With their durable construction, slotted top design, and ease of use and cleaning, these pans provide the ideal platform for achieving the perfect sear and crispness in your favorite broiled dishes. Whether you are an experienced chef or a novice home cook, investing in a quality broiler pan can help you sizzle in style and elevate your broiling game to the next level.
