Choosing The Right-Sized Saute Pan

When choosing a sauté pan, it's important to consider your needs. The size of the pan you should buy depends on how many servings you plan to cook, how often you cook, and the size of your stovetop.

The most common sauté pan sizes range from three to six quarts, but they can be as small as one quart and as large as twelve quarts. A three-quart pan is typically recommended as the minimum size, as anything smaller can be too limiting. This size is big enough to cook for three adults without taking up too much cabinet space or being too heavy to handle. If you have the space and budget, a four or five-quart pan is ideal for larger meals and ensuring even cooking without overcrowding the pan.

For a family of three to four, a twelve to fourteen-inch pan is suitable, while an eight-inch pan is sufficient for one to two people. If you're cooking for a bigger group, a pan within the size of eighteen inches will work, but keep in mind that it may not fit on your stove burner.

The capacity of the pan is also an important consideration. Sauté pans with a larger diameter will have a bigger cooking area, allowing you to cook more food at once. For example, a six-quart pan is approximately 13.5 inches wide and has a 33% larger cooking area than a typical three-quart pan.

Additionally, the construction and material of the pan impact heat conduction and retention. For even heating, fully-clad pans are recommended, while pans with a copper exterior or core heat up the fastest.

How many people are you cooking for?

The number of people you're cooking for will be a major factor in deciding what size of the saute pan you need.

If you're cooking for one to two people, a small or medium-sized pan (8" or 10") will be sufficient. These pans are also a good choice if you have a small kitchen or don't cook very often.

For larger groups of three or more, a bigger pan (12" or 14") is ideal. This size is also better for cooking in batches, minimizing the amount of cookware needed, and preparing one-pan meals without overcrowding.

A 12" pan can typically fit three medium-sized pork chops, while a 10" pan can only fit two. A 12" pan is also a good choice if you want to sear two steaks, fry four eggs, or cook six eggs.

If you're cooking for a family, a 4- or 5-quart saute pan is a good option. These pans have enough space to avoid overcrowding food and are ideal for large one-pot meals.

However, keep in mind that a larger pan will also be heavier and take up more storage space. Additionally, a smaller pan might be preferable for certain types of food, such as eggs or omelets, which do better in a more contained space.

What are you cooking?

When deciding what size of sauté pan to buy, it's important to consider what you are cooking. Sauté pans are versatile and can be used for searing, frying, braising, boiling, broiling, and more. They are a hybrid between a frying pan and a saucepan, with straight, steep sides and a wide, flat bottom.

If you are cooking for a larger group, a bigger pan will be more suitable. A 12-inch pan is ideal for a family, while a smaller 8-inch pan is perfect for one person. If you are cooking for two people, a 10-inch pan should be sufficient.

The amount of food you are preparing will also determine the size of the pan you need. For example, if you are cooking four chicken breasts, a 6-quart pan will be large enough to fit them all without overcrowding. If you are cooking for one or two people and want to sear two small chicken breasts, a 3-quart pan will be big enough.

The type of food you are cooking will also influence the size of the pan. For example, if you are making a dish with a lot of liquid, a larger pan with taller sides will be necessary to avoid spillage. If you are making a sauce or reducing liquids, a smaller pan might be preferable.

Additionally, consider the weight and manoeuvrability of the pan, especially if you plan to transfer it from the stove to the oven. A larger pan will be heavier and may be more difficult to handle.

Finally, think about your storage space. Larger pans will require more cupboard room, so if you have limited storage, a smaller pan might be a better option.

In summary, the key factors to consider when choosing a sauté pan size are the number of people you are cooking for, the amount and type of food you will be preparing, the weight and manoeuvrability of the pan, and your available storage space.

How much storage space do you have?

When deciding on the size of your cookware, it's important to consider how much storage space you have. If you have limited storage, a large set of cookware might not be ideal.

For example, if you're choosing between a 12" and 10" frying pan, it's worth noting that the smaller option is easier to clean and store. An 8" frying pan is also an option, but it's not common to have this as your only pan unless you're cooking for one.

Saucepans come in a range of sizes, typically between 1 and 4 quarts. A 1-2 quart saucepan is ideal for preparing a single serving of rice or heating up a can of soup, and it's easy to store. A 4-quart saucepan or larger is perfect for families or those who frequently host guests, but it will take up more storage space.

If you're choosing a sauté pan, it's worth noting that they are similar in size and design to frying pans. A 3-quart sauté pan is a good option if you're looking for versatility without taking up too much storage space. A 4-quart pan is a good standard size that can accommodate most meals, but it will take up more room.

Stockpots are larger than saucepans, typically 5 quarts and above, and will require more storage space.

What is your budget?

When it comes to budgeting for a sauté pan, several factors come into play. Here are some key considerations to help you determine how much you should spend:

Size and Purpose:

The size of the sauté pan you need will depend on how you plan to use it and how many people you typically cook for. If you're cooking for a larger family or group, you'll need a bigger pan, which tends to be more expensive. Smaller pans are more affordable but may be limiting if you want to cook in larger batches or prepare meals for many people. Consider your regular cooking routines and the types of dishes you make most often to decide on the appropriate size.

Material and Construction:

The material and construction of the sauté pan impact its price and performance. Fully-clad pans with multiple layers of heat-conductive material, such as stainless steel with an aluminium or copper core, tend to be more expensive but offer even heating. PTFE-based non-stick pans are usually more affordable but have heat limitations and may not be suitable for high-heat cooking. Cast iron or enameled cast iron pans are heavy-duty and versatile but can also be pricier.

Brand and Collection:

Different brands and their collections vary in price. For example, a larger pan from one brand might be cheaper than a smaller pan from another. Additionally, prices can differ within the same brand across various collections. Compare prices from popular brands like All-Clad, Made In, Anolon, Scanpan, Le Creuset, Lodge, and Mauviel to find the best option within your budget.

Heat Conduction and Retention:

Consider how the pan handles heat conduction and retention. If you're often in a hurry, look for pans with faster heat conduction, such as those with a copper exterior or core. For even heating, fully-clad pans are ideal. Larger pans retain heat longer, so if energy efficiency is a priority, a bigger pan might be worth the investment.

Weight and Maneuverability:

Before purchasing, check the weight of the pan. Heavier pans can be more challenging to handle, especially when full of food. If ease of use is important to you, opt for a lighter pan that you can comfortably manoeuvre, even with food and liquids inside.

Storage Space:

Think about the size of your stovetop and storage space. Larger pans might be cumbersome if you have limited storage or a slim stovetop. Consider stackable cookware or overhead racks to optimise your space.

Budget Allocation:

Finally, determine how much you are willing to spend on a sauté pan. They come in various price ranges, so you can find one that fits your budget. If you have a flexible budget, you can invest in a higher-quality pan that will last longer and perform better. If you're on a tighter budget, look for sales or consider purchasing a smaller pan or a different material to stay within your allocated amount.

What is your stove type?

When choosing a saute pan, it's important to consider your stove type as this will impact the heat conduction and distribution. Here are some common stove types and how they may influence your choice of saute pan:

Electric Stoves

Electric stoves are a common choice and can be further categorised into electric coil stoves and radiant stoves. Electric coil stoves have exposed heating coils that come into direct contact with the cookware. They are durable, easy to clean, and allow for quick cookware changes. However, they may be less aesthetically pleasing to some due to the exposed coils.

Radiant stoves, on the other hand, have a smooth ceramic glass top protecting the electric coils. They offer a sleek look and are easier to clean than exposed coil stoves. However, you need to be cautious when using cast iron cookware as it can scratch the glass surface.

When choosing a saute pan for an electric stove, consider the size of the heating coils or the size of the glass top cooking surface. Ensure that your saute pan has a flat bottom that matches the size of the coils or the glass top for even heating.

Gas Stoves

Gas stoves use natural gas or liquid propane to produce flames that heat the cookware. They offer quick temperature changes and a wide range of heat settings, making them a favourite among cooking enthusiasts. Gas stoves typically have four or five burners of different sizes, allowing for flexibility in cooking.

When choosing a saute pan for a gas stove, ensure that it has a flat bottom and is made of a compatible material. Cast iron, stainless steel, and some types of metal pans are suitable for gas stoves. Additionally, consider the size of the burners and choose a saute pan that matches the burner size for optimal heat distribution.

Induction Stoves

Induction stoves are a type of electric stove that uses electromagnetic coils below a ceramic glass surface to heat the cookware directly. They are known for their energy efficiency and safety, as the cooking surface itself does not get hot. However, they require the use of "induction-safe" cookware, which is usually marked as such or has a magnetic bottom.

When choosing a saute pan for an induction stove, ensure that the cookware is compatible with induction cooking. Additionally, consider the size of the burners and choose a saute pan that maximises the cooking surface for efficient heating.

Commercial Stoves

Commercial stoves are typically used in professional kitchens and are designed for heavy-duty use. They offer higher heat capabilities, faster cooking, and better temperature control. They usually have larger burners or multiple burners, griddles, and char broilers.

When choosing a saute pan for a commercial stove, consider the size and number of burners. Commercial stoves may require larger or more specialised saute pans to take advantage of their higher heat output and multiple cooking options.

Frequently asked questions