Emilie Meyer
Many recipes require a pan that can go from the stovetop to the oven, and having an oven-proof frying pan can be a game-changer for any serious cook. It is important to know which pots and pans can go in the oven, as some materials and coatings are not suitable for high temperatures. Oven-safe pans are advantageous for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven, like Dutch babies, searing or reverse searing, or even just for keeping a dish warm.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Heat maximum | Carbon steel frying pans are oven-safe up to 1200°F, stainless steel pans are oven-safe up to 800°F, cast iron pans can handle temperatures up to 600°F, and non-stick pans are oven-safe up to 500°F. |
| Handle material | Pans with plastic, wooden, or synthetic handles are not oven-safe. |
| Coating | Ceramic non-stick coating cannot be exposed to high temperatures. Teflon pans made before 2013 may contain toxic PFOA and should not be used in the oven. |
| Manufacturer guidelines | Most manufacturers will indicate whether a pan is oven-safe, either through a symbol or care instructions. |
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What You'll Learn
Oven-proof frying pans
When selecting an oven-proof frying pan, it is important to consider the heat maximums the pan can endure. Some materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and cast iron, are better suited for oven usage due to their high heat tolerance and conductivity. For example, carbon steel frying pans are oven-safe up to 1200°F, while stainless steel frying pans can withstand temperatures up to 800°F. Cast iron skillets are also a popular choice for oven-proof frying pans, with a heat tolerance of up to 600°F, although they can be quite heavy to manoeuvre.
It is also important to pay attention to the features of the pan. Some oven-proof frying pans have plastic or wooden handles, which may render them unsuitable for oven use. Additionally, not all non-stick frying pans are oven-safe due to the chemicals used in their coating, which may leach into food at high temperatures. However, there are oven-safe non-stick options available, such as the Granitestone Nonstick Fry Pan, which is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 450°F.
Manufacturers typically indicate whether a frying pan is oven-safe through symbols or care instructions. For example, the Made In brand offers a Stainless Clad Frying Pan that is oven-safe up to 800°F and features a Stay-Cool Handle for easy transport in and out of the oven. Similarly, LOLYKITCH offers a stainless steel frying pan with a tri-ply skillet that is both dishwasher-safe and oven-safe.
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Pans with plastic handles
Whether or not a pan with plastic handles can go in the oven depends on the type of plastic used and the temperature of the oven. Some plastics will melt, while others will burn and potentially catch fire. Therefore, it is best to avoid putting plastic in the oven unless you know for certain that the plastic handles are heat-stable and the oven temperature is below the maximum temperature the plastic can withstand.
Most manufacturers are very clear about whether their cookware is oven-safe and will usually denote this with a symbol on the pan or in the care instructions. For example, GreenPan specifies that their pans with Phenolic (plastic) handles are oven-safe up to 350°F.
Cast iron pans are a highly effective option for oven usage, as they can handle temperatures up to 600°F. However, they are quite heavy, especially with food in them, so it is recommended to use two hands or place the skillet on a sheet pan for easier maneuvering.
Carbon steel frying pans are another excellent oven-safe option, as they are oven-safe up to 1200°F, lightweight, and have incredible heat retention. Stainless steel pans are also oven-safe and often feature stay-cool handles, making it easy to transport them in and out of the oven without burning your hands.
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Cast iron skillets
When using cast iron in the oven, be aware of the handles, as plastic or wooden handles render the pan unsuitable for oven use. Cast iron skillets can be used for baking, roasting, and even boiling water. They are a versatile option for any kitchen.
One thing to keep in mind is that cast iron skillets should not be cleaned with soap. Instead, they develop a natural non-stick coating over time as the oils that coat them harden onto the metal.
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Carbon steel frying pans
When it comes to cookware, having at least one pan that can be used for various cooking methods is essential. An oven-safe pan is one that can be used on the stovetop and in the oven, which is useful for recipes that require both. Most manufacturers will indicate whether a pan is oven-safe, usually with a symbol or in the care instructions.
One thing to note about carbon steel pans is that they require seasoning before use to achieve their natural non-stick capabilities. This process enhances their durability and makes them virtually non-stick, although they will never be as non-stick as Teflon. Additionally, carbon steel pans should not be used with acidic sauces for extended periods as this can eat away at the seasoning.
The handles of carbon steel pans are typically made of steel and can get hot during cooking. It is recommended to use a kitchen towel or oven mitt when handling the pan. Some pans may also come with silicone covers for the handles, but these might have lower heat resistance than the pan itself, so be sure to check the temperature ratings.
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Stainless steel pans
Oven-safe stainless steel pans can be used at high temperatures, with some able to withstand temperatures of up to 800°F. Lower-grade pans can typically cook up to 350-400°F safely, while some higher-end pieces can cook at up to 500°F or more.
When purchasing an oven-safe stainless steel pan, it is recommended to opt for 18/10, 304, or 430-grade stainless steel. It is also important to avoid pans with aluminium bases, as they cannot withstand high heat. Additionally, ensure that the handles of your pan are oven-safe. Handles made of plastic, rubber, wood, or other non-heat-resistant materials may melt or be otherwise unsuitable for oven use.
Some manufacturers may indicate that their products are oven-safe by including a symbol on the pan or in the care instructions. A square symbol with a small oven inside indicates that the pan is oven-safe. Alternatively, the manufacturer may simply write "oven-safe" on the bottom of the pan. Checking the manufacturer's guide is the best way to confirm if your pan is oven-safe and to determine the maximum temperature it can withstand.
Having an oven-safe stainless steel pan can be advantageous for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven, such as searing or reverse searing, or simply for keeping a dish warm while preparing the rest of the meal.
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Frequently asked questions
Iron pans, such as cast iron skillets, carbon steel frying pans, and Solidteknics wrought iron pans are extremely durable and oven-safe. Stainless steel frying pans can also withstand extremely high temperatures and can go from stove to oven.
While stainless steel pots are oven-safe, be sure to check the heat maximums they can endure. Also, look out for plastic or wooden handles, which render the pot unsuitable for use in the oven.
Most modern non-stick pans are safe up to 175°C. If you're heating your pan beyond this, check if it's oven-safe, or you risk damaging it and releasing harmful fumes.
Enamelled cast iron pans have a durable ceramic coating that's safe to put in the oven, though temperature recommendations can vary by brand.
Oven-proof pots can be used for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven, like Dutch babies, searing, or keeping a dish warm while preparing the rest of the meal. They also save on washing up!
