Pans: From Stovetop To Oven

Whether you're preparing a stovetop meal that needs to be finished in the oven, or you're simply looking to incorporate the healthy method of baking into your cooking, it's important to know which pans are oven-safe.

Generally, oven-safe pans are made from materials such as ceramic, copper, cast iron, stainless steel, or even aluminum. Stainless steel, cast iron, copper, and carbon steel frying pans have the highest oven-safety ratings, with an average maximum temperature of 500°F. Non-stick pans are typically oven-safe up to 450°F, but should never be used above 500°F as they may release harmful fumes.

To determine if a pan is oven-safe, look for an oven-safe symbol or text on the bottom of the pan. You can also refer to the user manual or check the manufacturer's website to find out the maximum oven temperature the pan can withstand. If your pan has plastic handles, you may need to wrap them in wet paper towels and then aluminum foil to increase their heat tolerance.

Cast iron pans

However, it's important to note that not all cast iron skillets are created equal. Some come with wooden or plastic handles, which are not oven-safe. At baking temperatures, wood can split and break apart, and at broiling temperatures, it can catch fire. Therefore, if your cast iron skillet has a wooden or plastic handle, stick to using it on the stovetop.

Enameled cast iron skillets are also oven-safe but have some limitations. While they retain heat better and remain rust-free, they cannot withstand very high temperatures and are only suitable for use up to 400°F. Enamel coatings can crack and chip if exposed to higher temperatures.

To maintain the quality of your cast iron skillet, proper care is essential. Unlike other types of pans, cast iron should not be washed with detergent or put in the dishwasher. Instead, clean it with a mild soap and avoid using metal scouring pads, which can scratch and damage the surface. Seasoning your cast iron skillet regularly is also crucial to prevent rusting and create a non-stick finish.

In summary, cast iron pans are highly versatile and durable, making them a favourite among cooks. Their ability to withstand high oven temperatures and produce delicious results makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Stainless steel pans

When using stainless steel pans in the oven, always use oven mitts or potholders to protect your hands from the hot handles. It is also crucial to consult the manufacturer's guidelines for temperature limits and other specific instructions for oven use. While stainless steel pans are generally durable and safe for oven use, they may warp or discolour at extremely high temperatures. Therefore, it is important to avoid subjecting them to sudden temperature changes, such as placing a hot pan directly into cold water.

One advantage of using stainless steel pans in the oven is their ability to distribute heat evenly, which is crucial for even baking and cooking. They are also long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, and easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for both professional and home chefs.

Non-stick pans

Firstly, not all non-stick pans are created equal. The oven-safety of a non-stick pan depends on the material it is made of and the type of coating it has. Some common materials used in non-stick pans include PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), ceramic, and Teflon™. PTFE and Teflon™ are traditional non-stick coatings, while ceramic is a newer option that is growing in popularity.

PTFE-coated non-stick pans should not be heated above 500 degrees Fahrenheit as they can release toxic fumes, a process known as "off-gassing." It's important to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pan, as they may set a lower temperature cutoff. Ceramic non-stick pans, on the other hand, do not release fumes at high temperatures, so they are generally safer to use in the oven. However, ceramic pans are more brittle and prone to developing microscopic cracks during everyday use.

Teflon™ non-stick coatings have been used in cookware for over 50 years and are considered safe for consumer use by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority. DuPont, the company that manufactures Teflon™, states that the recommended maximum use temperature for cookware with Teflon™ non-stick coating is 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius). However, some sources suggest that Teflon™ starts to release toxic gases at temperatures as low as 446 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid using Teflon™ pans in the oven and opt for stainless steel or cast iron instead.

When using any type of non-stick pan in the oven, it's important to consider the handle material. Handles made from soft, squishy materials may not be oven-safe at temperatures above 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, plastic handles will melt in the oven, so it's crucial to check for these features before placing your pan inside.

In conclusion, while some non-stick pans are oven-safe, it's important to be mindful of the specific material and coating of your pan, as well as the manufacturer's instructions, to ensure safe use.

Ceramic pans

While most ceramic pans can be used in the oven, it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions, as the construction materials and coating quality can vary. Some ceramic pans may only be oven-safe up to certain temperatures, typically ranging from 350 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, so always check the specific guidelines for your pan. Additionally, ceramic pans can be prone to warping or thermal shock if exposed to extreme temperature changes, so it's best to preheat the oven before placing the pan inside.

When using ceramic pans in the oven, avoid temperatures above 500 degrees Fahrenheit, as higher temperatures can degrade the non-stick coating more quickly. Always allow the pan to cool to room temperature before cleaning with warm, soapy water, and avoid putting ceramic pans in the dishwasher. To prolong the life of your ceramic pan, hand washing is recommended.

It's also important to note that not all ceramics are oven-safe. Some ceramics can undergo thermal shock when exposed to high temperatures and then placed on a cold surface, which can cause cracking or shattering. Therefore, it's crucial to check if your specific ceramic item is oven-safe before using it in the oven.

To summarise, ceramic pans offer a non-toxic, non-stick, and aesthetically pleasing option for cooking. When used and cared for properly, they can be a safe and convenient choice for oven use.

Copper pans

Additionally, copper pans are susceptible to warping if exposed to drastic changes in temperature. Therefore, it's recommended to allow the pan to cool down gradually before rinsing it with cold water.

It's also worth noting that copper pans are not compatible with induction cooktops unless they have a special induction plate. Copper also reacts with acidic foods like tomatoes, lemon juice, wine, and vinegar, which can leave an unpleasant metallic taste. However, the cooking surface of most copper pans is usually lined with a non-reactive material like stainless steel.

Some popular copper pan brands and their maximum oven-safe temperatures include:

• Mauviel M’Heritage Copper Frying Pan
• All-Clad Copper Core Frying Pan
• T-fal Ultimate Copper Bottom Cookware Set
• Matfer Bourgeat Copper Cookware Set
• Ruffoni Symphonia Cupra Copper Frying Pan
• Anolon Nouvelle Copper Cookware Set
• Viking Copper Cookware Set
• Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad Copper Cookware Set

Frequently asked questions