
Steam table pans, also known as hotel pans, are large rectangular dishes used for serving food at buffets, banquets, and wedding receptions. They are also used in kitchens for cooking, storage, and holding food. Steam table pans are typically made of stainless steel, but some are made of heavy-gauge steel or thermally stable plastic. They come in various sizes and depths, ranging from 2-1/2 inches to 8 inches deep. While some sources suggest that steam table pans can be used in the oven, others warn that they may warp, discolour, or even damage the oven door. To avoid these issues, it is recommended to use a disposable steam tray or a double roaster for baking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you put steam table pans in the oven? | Yes, but they may warp. |
| Types of steam table pans | Stainless steel, thermally stable plastic |
| Uses | Cooking, baking, roasting, storage, holding, food display, dining venue, warming meals, etc. |
| Sizes | 1/9 pan, 1/6 pan, full pan, etc. |
| Dimensions | 4 x 6-2/3 inches, 4" deep, 12 x 20 inches, 12 x 24 x 3 inches, etc. |
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What You'll Learn

Stainless steel steam table pans can be used in the oven
Steam table pans are often used in restaurants and for large gatherings, such as weddings, proms, birthdays and galas, as they are great for keeping food warm and are available in a variety of sizes. They are also useful for cooking in bulk, food storage, and holding various ingredients.
When using stainless steel steam table pans in the oven, it is recommended to create a "rack" out of aluminum foil to keep the food off the bottom of the pan. This may help to prevent warping and discolouration. It is also suggested to use a deep hotel pan with a perforated one to avoid warping of the lid.
Overall, stainless steel steam table pans can be used in the oven, but they may require some adjustments to ensure the best results and to maintain the quality of the pan.
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They can be used for cooking, storage, and serving food
Steam table pans, also known as hotel pans or food pans, are large rectangular dishes used for cooking, storage, and serving food. They are commonly used in restaurants and catering to retain food and distinguish between various flavors and ingredients during food preparation and serving. Steam table pans are also used for cooking and storing food in ovens, with some sources stating that they work "just fine" in ovens.
Steam table pans come in a variety of sizes, with the most common being the full pan, which is around 12 inches by 20 inches. This size is often used for cooking and serving large quantities of food, such as roasted meats or dishes that require a large surface area. Smaller sizes, such as the 1/9 pan, are also available and are useful for storing and serving small portions, toppings, sauces, or garnishes. The depth of steam table pans can range from 2.5 inches to 8 inches, providing flexibility in terms of storage and serving capacity.
When using steam table pans in the oven, it is important to consider the material and construction. Some sources suggest that stainless steel steam table pans may warp or discolour at high temperatures, affecting their appearance and functionality. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use a rack or a layer of aluminum foil between the pan and the food to prevent direct contact with the heat source. Additionally, the use of a lid or cover can help trap steam and moisture, which may be beneficial for certain cooking techniques, such as baking baguettes or recipes that require high humidity.
Steam table pans are versatile and can be used for a range of cooking and food preparation tasks. They are suitable for tasks such as braising, grilling, chilling food, bulk food preparation, and even grinding meat or making sausages. The pans can be easily transferred between different temperature environments, such as from the freezer to the oven or serving line, without bending or warping. This makes them convenient for various cooking and serving applications.
Overall, steam table pans can be used for cooking, storage, and serving food, offering convenience, versatility, and durability in the kitchen. They are a useful addition to any commercial or home kitchen, especially when preparing and serving food for large gatherings or events where food needs to be kept warm and easily accessible.
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Steam table pans come in various sizes and depths
Steam table pans are an essential tool in any commercial kitchen, offering a versatile and efficient way to store, transport, and serve food. They are designed to withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion, making them suitable for use in ovens, steam tables, and cold storage. Steam table pans come in various sizes, depths, and capacities, with full-size food pans being the standard in the foodservice industry, typically measuring 20 3/4" x 12 3/4". All other sizes are simply variations of these dimensions, such as half-size pans and two-thirds size pans.
The product specifications of steam table pans, such as depth, thickness, and corner design, can influence their total capacity, and certain pan sizes are better suited for specific applications. For example, smaller pans, like the 1/9 pan, are ideal for holding seasonings, spices, and garnishes. In contrast, larger pans are perfect for bulk food preparation or even as a makeshift cooking pot on an induction cooktop.
The thickness of the metal in steam table pans is indicated by a gauge measurement, with lower gauges denoting thicker metal. For instance, 20-gauge stainless steel pans are suitable for heavy-duty applications, while 24-gauge pans are better for medium and light-duty kitchen tasks. Additionally, these pans can be made of various materials, including stainless steel, polypropylene, polycarbonate, or melamine, each with its advantages for specific uses.
Steam table pans are also available with different lid types, such as dome lids, roll-top lids, and transport lids, each serving a unique purpose. These pans are commonly used in commercial settings like restaurants, hotels, and catering services, where they are invaluable for maintaining food temperatures and ensuring optimal serving conditions.
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They can be used to retain food and distinguish between ingredients
Steam table pans are a crucial element of any restaurant's food display, dining venue, or kitchen. They are used to retain food and distinguish between various ingredients and flavours. This is especially important in a restaurant setting, where there are several steps between food preparation and serving.
These pans are typically large, rectangular dishes made of stainless steel, although some are made of food-safe, thermally stable plastic. They come in a variety of sizes, with the full pan being the largest at around 12 inches by 20 inches. Smaller pans, such as the 1/9 pan, are also available and are perfect for holding small quantities of toppings, sauces, or garnishes.
Steam table pans are often used in locations where food is served buffet-style or needs to be kept warm for an extended period. For example, they are commonly used at large gatherings such as weddings, proms, birthdays, and galas. They are also used by hot dog vendors and hotels for breakfast and supper buffets.
In addition to their use in food service, steam table pans are also useful in food preparation. They can be used for bulk food preparation, chilling hot food, grinding meat, sausage making, and storing food in the fridge. Some people even use them for cooking in the oven, although there is a risk of warping, discolouration, or damage to the oven door if the pan is not oven-safe.
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Steam table pans are also called hotel pans or food pans
Steam table pans are designed to hold prepared foods at food-safe temperatures until they are ready to be served. They are used to maintain food safety standards and ensure the quality of meals. Their simple design makes them easy to clean, and they can hold a wide range of foods. Steam table pans can be solid or perforated, and they can also come in specialty sizes, such as adapter plates that allow multiple smaller pans to be used in a steam table or chafing dish.
In addition to their use in buffets and catering, steam table pans can also be used for cooking. Some pans have numerous holes that allow food to be cooked by steam, resulting in crunchy and hot dishes. They can also be used as makeshift cooking pots or pans on induction cooktops, and for grilling and braising. Steam table pans are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks in the kitchen, including food preparation, storage, and serving.
While steam table pans can be used in the oven, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Some sources suggest that the high heat of the oven may cause the pans to warp or discolour, affecting their appearance. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use a rack or balls of aluminium foil to keep the food elevated and prevent direct contact with the pan's surface. Additionally, the height of the pan's sides may impact cooking times, so adjustments may be necessary.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put steam table pans in the oven. They are used for baking, roasting, and heating. However, some users have reported that the pans can warp slightly or discolour at high temperatures.
Steam table pans are often made of stainless steel. However, some are also made of heavy-gauge steel or aluminium.
Steam table pans come in a variety of sizes and depths. The most common sizes are the full pan (12 inches by 20 inches) and the 1/9 pan (4 inches by 6-2/3 inches). The depth of steam table pans can range from 2-1/2 inches to 8 inches.
Steam table pans are used for cooking, storage, holding food, and serving food. They are commonly used in restaurants, dining venues, and kitchens. They are also used for food preparation, such as chopping vegetables and holding ingredients.





































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