Pizza Pans: To Wash Or Not?

Pizza pans should be washed, but the method of washing depends on the type of pan. For example, cast iron pans should not be washed with metal utensils or scrapers, and should be dried thoroughly to prevent rusting. Anodized finish pans are more durable and can be soaked and washed with metal utensils, whereas bright finish pans should not be soaked and must be seasoned before use. Non-stick pans should not be washed with harsh scrubbers or put in the dishwasher, but can be washed with regular dish soap and a sponge.

Should Pizza Pans Be Washed?

How to clean an aluminium pizza pan

Aluminium pizza pans are a great choice for beginner pizza bakers. They don't stain easily and are easy to clean and care for. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your aluminium pizza pan:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

First, gather all the items you will need to clean your pan: a sink, a source of water, baking soda, white vinegar, a scouring pad, and a pot.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Fill the pot with water, using a ratio of 2 cups of white vinegar for every gallon of water. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water and vinegar solution to a boil.

Step 3: Prepare the Sink

Plug your sink to prevent drainage, then carefully pour the boiling water and vinegar solution into it. Be very careful during this step to avoid burning yourself with the hot water.

Step 4: Soak the Pan

Place the pizza pan in the sink, allowing it to soak in the hot water and vinegar solution. If your pan is too large to fully submerge, rotate it frequently so that all surfaces have a chance to soak.

Step 5: Apply Baking Soda

Once the water has cooled down enough for you to safely touch it, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the surface of the pan. You will observe a reactive process between the vinegar and baking soda, which is entirely normal.

Step 6: Scrub the Pan

Using the scouring pad, scrub the surface of the pizza pan. The acid in the vinegar will help loosen any baked-on, greasy residue, while the baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to help scrub it away. Don't worry about the fizzing reaction between the baking soda and vinegar; this is normal and will quickly dissipate.

Step 7: Repeat if Necessary

If your pan still has some stubborn residue, repeat the process as needed.

Additional Tips:

• If your aluminium pan is not anodized, you can use Bar Keepers Friend to clean it. Simply wet the pan, sprinkle with Bar Keepers Friend, and wipe clean with a cloth scouring pad.
• Always wash and rinse your pan thoroughly after using any cleaning product to remove any residue.
• Avoid using soap or dishwasher liquid, as it can leave a residue that may cause the pan to rust over time.
• For regular maintenance, simply use warm water and a mild dishwashing soap, and scrub with a nylon brush or pad.
• Always dry your pan completely after washing to prevent rusting.
• Never use metallic utensils or scrapers on your aluminium pizza pan, as they can cause scratches.

By following these steps, you can keep your aluminium pizza pan clean and well-maintained, ensuring that your pizzas always come out perfect!

How to clean a cast iron pizza pan

Cast iron pizza pans are a popular choice for cooking pizzas due to their ability to handle high temperatures and produce tasty, crusty results. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean and care for your cast iron pizza pan to ensure it remains in good condition:

Step 1: Initial Cleaning

• Avoid using metallic utensils or scrapers as they can scratch the surface of the pan.
• For sticky food residue, heat the pan over the stove for a few minutes, then add salt and vegetable oil, and scrub with a nylon brush or pad.
• For regular cleaning, use warm water and a mild dishwashing soap. Avoid letting the pan soak in water as it may cause rusting.
• Rinse and wipe the pan with a kitchen towel.

Step 2: Drying

• Ensure the pan is completely dry. Any remaining moisture can lead to rusting.
• You can place the pan on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes to ensure it is thoroughly dried.

Step 3: Oil Coating

• Once the pan is dry, use a cloth or paper towel to coat it lightly with vegetable oil.
• Wipe the surface with oiled paper towels until no oil residue remains, and the pan looks dark and smooth.
• Let the pan cool completely before storing.

Removing Stubborn Residue:

• For stubborn, stuck-on food, simmer a small amount of water in the pan for 3-5 minutes, then use a pan scraper after it has cooled.
• Alternatively, pour salt into the pan, set it over high heat, and rub charred food residue out with paper towels.

Restoring a Rusty Pan:

• If your pan develops rust, scour it with warm, soapy water and steel wool.
• Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly.
• Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the pan, inside and out.
• Place the pan upside down on the top rack of the oven, with a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the bottom rack to catch any dripping oil.
• Bake at 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour. Allow to cool and repeat if necessary.

How to clean a stainless steel pizza pan

Pizza pans should be washed after every use to prevent stains and discolouration. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean a stainless steel pizza pan:

Step 1: Fill the Pan with Water

Firstly, fill your stainless steel pizza pan with water. You can add a cup of vinegar to the water to help remove any tough, burnt-on stains.

Step 2: Bring the Water to a Boil

Place the pan on the stove and turn on the burner. Bring the water to a boil.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

Once the water is boiling, sprinkle in some baking soda. This will react with the vinegar and help to remove any burnt marks.

Step 4: Scrub and Wash

Turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool down. Then, use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to scrub away any remaining residue. Wash the pan with hot, soapy water, ensuring that you use a mild dish soap.

Step 5: Dry the Pan

Rinse the pan with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a kitchen towel. It is important to ensure that the pan is completely dry before storing it to prevent rust.

Tips for Maintaining Your Stainless Steel Pizza Pan:

• Always wipe your pizza pan with a towel immediately after washing to prevent water spots and stains.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes when cleaning your pan, as this can lead to discolouration. Do not clean a hot pan with cold water.
• Do not use steel wool or other abrasive scrubbers, as these can scratch the surface of the pan.
• Never place frozen food directly on the pizza pan, as this can cause discolouration.

How to season a pizza pan

Pizza pans come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes. Before seasoning your pizza pan, it is important to know what type of pizza pan you have. For example, if you have anodized aluminum pots and pans, you should never use soap on them because it will strip away the protective coating. In this case, you must wipe them down with a damp cloth and dry them immediately.

• Wash the pan thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. You can do this by wiping the pan down with a damp cloth or sponge and drying it thoroughly.
• Coat the pan lightly with cooking oil. You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or any other type of cooking oil with a high smoke point.
• Place the pan in the oven and heat it to a temperature of 350-425°F (180-218°C). Leave the pan in the oven for about 15-20 minutes to allow the oil to bond with the surface of the pan.
• Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. This will help set the oil and create a protective, non-stick layer.
• Wipe away any excess oil with a tissue or kitchen towel.
• Repeat the process as needed. You may need to re-season your pan periodically, especially if you notice that it is no longer non-stick or if it starts to rust or show signs of wear.

By seasoning your pizza pan, you can prevent the pizza from sticking to the surface, make it easier to clean, and extend its lifespan.

How to care for your pizza pan

Pizza pans come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes. Each type of pizza pan requires specific care and maintenance. Here are some general guidelines and tips on how to care for your pizza pan:

Aluminium Pizza Pans:

• Aluminium pans are a great choice for beginner pizza makers as they don't stain easily and distribute heat evenly.
• To clean, fill a pot with water and add two cups of white vinegar for each gallon of water. Bring this mixture to a boil and then carefully pour it into your kitchen sink.
• Place the pizza pan in the sink and let it soak. Once the water has cooled down a bit, sprinkle some baking soda on the pan and scrub with a pad. This will remove most stains, but you can repeat the process if needed.

Cast Iron Pizza Pans:

• Avoid using metallic utensils or scrapers as they can scratch the surface of the pan.
• For sticky residue, heat the pan on the stove for a few minutes, add some salt and vegetable oil, and scrub to remove stubborn residue.
• For regular cleaning, use warm water and a mild dishwashing soap. A nylon brush or pad is ideal for scrubbing.
• Ensure that the pan is completely dry before putting it away to prevent rusting.

Stainless Steel Pizza Pans:

• To remove burn marks, fill the pan with water and add vinegar. Bring it to a boil and then sprinkle baking soda on the pan. Finish by scrubbing and rinsing with water.
• To remove discolouration, soak the pan in a solution of warm water and vinegar (1:3 ratio) for a few hours, and then rinse with fresh water.
• If you don't have baking soda or vinegar, simply add boiling water and sprinkle salt. Let the salt sit for a few hours, and then scrub gently with a brush.

General Tips:

• Always wipe your pizza pan with a towel immediately after washing to prevent stains and water spots.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes when cleaning your pan, as this can lead to discolouration.
• Do not use steel wool scrubbers on stainless steel pans as they can leave scratch marks.
• Never place frozen food directly on the pizza pan to avoid discolouration.
• For non-stick pans, avoid using metal utensils as they can scratch the coating.

By following these care instructions, you can effectively increase the lifespan of your pizza pan and enjoy perfectly baked pizzas every time!

Frequently asked questions