Half-Size Aluminum Pan Dimensions

Half-size aluminum pans are a versatile kitchen essential, perfect for cooking, storing, and serving a variety of dishes. They are commonly used in the food service industry and catering, but they're also ideal for barbeques, casseroles, cakes, and more. These pans typically measure 12 3/4 x 10 3/8 with depths ranging from 1 1/2 to 4 3/16. They are available in various thicknesses, from standard-duty to heavy-duty, making them suitable for different types of dishes and applications. Whether you're preparing family-sized meals, catering an event, or simply looking for convenience in the kitchen, half-size aluminum pans offer a practical and efficient solution.

Uses of half-size aluminum pans

Half-size aluminum pans are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, from cooking and serving food to organizing items at home. Here are some common uses for half-size aluminum pans:

Cooking and Serving Food

Half-size aluminum pans are commonly used in the food service industry and catering. They are perfect for cooking, storing, and serving a variety of dishes, including:

• Barbeque meats
• Casseroles
• Cakes
• Cookies
• Lasagna
• Chicken
• Vegetables
• Appetizers
• Desserts
• Salads
• Pasta

They are also great for reheating food and can be used in the oven, freezer, and steam table.

Organizing and Storing Items

Due to their durability and convenient size, half-size aluminum pans can also be used for organizing and storing items at home. For example:

• Sewing materials
• Medicines
• Tools in the garage

Arts and Crafts

Half-size aluminum pans can also be used to create beautiful DIY crafts, such as Christmas lanterns or toy houses.

Bulk Buying and Events

Half-size aluminum pans are often sold in bulk and are perfect for casual catered events, barbeques, and parties. They are also 100% recyclable, making cleanup a breeze.

Dimensions of half-size aluminum pans

Half-size aluminum pans are versatile and convenient for various cooking and baking applications. They are commonly used for casseroles, roasting vegetables, salads, and barbecues. They can also be used for prepping and serving family-sized portions for your takeout or meal-prep business.

Half-size foil pans measure 12 3/4" x 10 3/8" and have a range of shallow, medium, deep, and extra-deep depths. The depth of these pans can vary from 1 1/2" to 4 3/16".

• WebstaurantStore offers a Choice Half-Size Foil Steam Table Pan with a depth of 2 9/16" and a capacity of 120 fl. oz.
• KitchenDance offers a Disposable Half-Size Foil Steam Table Pan with Medium Depth #4255. The top outside dimensions (rim to rim) are 12 3/4" x 10 3/8", the top inside dimensions are 11 3/4" x 9 1/2", and the bottom dimensions are 10 1/2" x 8 1/8. It has a capacity of 104 fl. oz.
• Amazon offers a DCS Deals Aluminum Half-Size Deep Foil Pan with dimensions of 12 1/2" x 10 1/4" x 2 1/2".
• Foil-Pans.com offers a Half-Size Medium Steam Table Aluminum Foil Pan with Lid 20/PK. The top outside dimensions are 12 3/4" x 10 3/8", the top inside dimensions are 11 3/4" x 9 3/8", the bottom dimensions are 10 1/4" x 7 7/8", and the vertical depth is 2 3/16". It has a capacity of 104 fl. oz.
• Juvale offers a 20-pack of Half-Size Aluminum Pans with Lids. The upper pan measures 12.7" x 10.2", the base measures 10.1" x 7.7", and the depth is 2.2" inches.

Gauge and thickness of half-size aluminum pans

The gauge of a half-size aluminum pan is an important factor in determining its durability and suitability for different uses. The thickness of the foil affects the pan's sturdiness and weight capacity. Typically, a commercial foil pan will be labelled as either standard-duty or heavy-duty depending on its thickness.

Standard-Duty Aluminum Foil Pans

Standard-duty pans are suitable for most everyday cooking and baking applications. They are also more affordable. Standard-duty pans are ideal for small meat cuts, baked goods, pasta, and vegetables. The gauge of standard-duty pans falls between 35 and 55.

Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil Pans

Heavy-duty pans offer increased strength and durability, making them better suited for heavier dishes or when extra sturdiness is required, such as with off-site catering events or selling retail items. They can also resist warping and can handle higher temperatures. The gauge of heavy-duty pans falls between 58 and 70.

Examples of Half-Size Aluminum Pans and Their Gauge

• A 35-gauge aluminum foil pan is considered durable and suitable for catered events or back-of-house operations.
• A 40-gauge aluminum foil pan is strong and durable for most uses, commonly used in the food service industry and for catering.
• A 45-gauge aluminum foil pan is considered extra heavy-duty and premium grade.
• A 19-gauge aluminum bun/sheet pan is great for everyday use and can withstand cold temperatures in the freezer and high-heat applications in the oven.

How to bake using half-size aluminum pans

Half-size aluminum pans are a versatile option for baking, roasting, and cooking a variety of dishes. Here are some tips on how to bake using these pans:

Choosing the Right Pan

Before you start baking, it's important to select the appropriate pan size and type for your specific needs. Half-size foil pans typically measure 12 3/4" x 10 3/8" and come in various depths, including shallow, medium, deep, and extra-deep. They are ideal for casseroles, roasting vegetables, and preparing family-sized portions. If you're baking, the depth of the pan will depend on the type of dish you're making.

Preparing the Pan

Disposable aluminum foil pans are not non-stick, so it's important to coat the pan with oil or cooking spray before adding your batter or dough. You can also line the pan with parchment paper if you don't plan to serve your baked goods in the pan.

Baking Tips

For even browning and easier transfer in and out of the oven, place the disposable aluminum pan on a preheated baking sheet. Additionally, consider the thickness of the pan; thinner pans will crisp up faster, making them ideal for baked goods with short bake times, like cookies. For dishes with longer bake times, thicker pans may be more suitable to prevent over-browning.

Versatility of Half-Size Pans

Half-size aluminum pans can be used for a variety of dishes beyond baking. They are great for roasting vegetables, cooking family-sized meals, and even organizing items at home. Their disposable nature makes cleanup a breeze, and they are also recyclable.

Safety

Food-grade disposable aluminum foil pans are considered non-toxic and safe for oven use. They can typically withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now that you know the basics of baking with half-size aluminum pans, you can confidently prepare your favorite recipes and explore new ones!

Pros and cons of half-size aluminum pans

Half-size aluminum pans are a popular choice for cooking, storing, and serving food, offering several benefits and drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Versatility: Half-size aluminum pans are excellent for cooking, baking, roasting, and storing a wide range of dishes, from barbeque meats and casseroles to cakes and desserts. They are also suitable for use in ovens, steam tables, and freezers.
• Convenience: These pans are lightweight and disposable, making them perfect for catering events, parties, and outdoor gatherings. They eliminate the need for dishwashing and allow for easy cleanup.
• Efficient Heat Conductivity: Aluminum is an excellent heat conductor, ensuring food cooks evenly. The pans' lids also help keep food hot during serving.
• Portability: Half-size pans are easy to transport, making them ideal for taking meals to friends or family. Their size and disposability make them convenient for grill-out parties and holiday gatherings.
• Recyclability: Aluminum is recyclable, making these pans an environmentally-friendly option.

Cons:

• Durability: Some users find the pans flimsy and prone to bending or puncturing. They may require doubling up for heavier dishes.
• Size: While convenient for transport and storage, the smaller size may not be suitable for larger portions or dishes.
• Quality: Opinions vary on the quality of half-size aluminum pans, with some users reporting that they are thin and of poor quality.
• Value: Some customers feel that the pans are overpriced for the quality and durability offered.

Frequently asked questions