Pans: Choosing The Right Sizes For Your Kitchen

Choosing the right size of pans for your kitchen can be a daunting task, especially with the wide variety of options available. The size of your cookware is one of the most important aspects to consider when making a purchase. The three main things to consider when deciding on sizes are what you typically cook, how many you typically cook for, and how much storage space you have.

For example, a 12 stainless steel frying pan can handle almost any dish and is large enough for frying, sauteing, and browning. On the other hand, an 8 frying pan is more suitable for cooking for one person, such as frying eggs or bacon. Similarly, a 10 frying pan is great for smaller tasks like reducing sauces or browning a few cutlets.

When it comes to saucepans, small sizes ranging from 1-2.5 quarts are ideal for single cooks or small families, while larger sizes of 3-4 quarts offer more versatility. A stockpot is another essential item, perfect for making stock, cooking pasta, and preparing large batches of soups. A 5-6 quart pot is suitable for small batches, while an 8-quart pot can accommodate a full pound of spaghetti noodles.

Frying pans: 8-12 inches in diameter

Frying pans are a kitchen staple, used for everyday cooking tasks such as frying, sautéing, and browning. When it comes to size, the most common frying pans range from 8 to 12 inches in diameter.

8-inch Frying Pan

The smallest of the three, an 8-inch frying pan, is ideal for cooking single servings. You can comfortably fry an egg, prepare an omelette, or sear a small steak or salmon fillet in it. It's also perfect for sautéing vegetables as a side dish. 8-inch pans heat up quickly and evenly, and they're easy to clean. However, due to their compact size, they may not be suitable as your primary frying pan, especially if you're cooking for more than one person.

10-inch Frying Pan

A 10-inch frying pan offers more versatility and is suitable for households of one or two people. With this size, you can fry 2-3 eggs, make sauces, sear salmon fillets, and sauté vegetables. It's a good size for most stovetops and provides a balance between cooking space and heat retention. Additionally, 10-inch pans are lighter, easier to manoeuvre, heat up quicker, and are usually less expensive than their larger counterparts.

12-inch Frying Pan

The 12-inch frying pan is the most versatile size, suitable for both couples and families. It provides ample space for cooking larger cuts of meat, poultry, or seafood, and you can even make deep-dish pan pizzas. This size is ideal for one-pan meals and batch cooking, as it minimises the need for multiple pans. While 12-inch pans take longer to heat up, they retain heat longer and are excellent for searing, sautéing, and frying. However, they are heavier, more cumbersome, and generally more expensive than smaller pans.

Choosing the Right Size

When deciding between these sizes, consider your household size, the types of food you cook, and your available storage space. If you live alone or have a small kitchen, an 8-inch or 10-inch pan might be more suitable. For couples or small families, a 10-inch pan is a good starting point, while larger families may prefer the 12-inch option.

Having a variety of pan sizes is ideal, as different recipes and cooking techniques may call for more or less space. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and cooking habits.

Saucepans: 1.4-2.5 quarts

Saucepans are a kitchen staple, perfect for heating liquids, cooking noodles, making soups, and poaching eggs. They are typically measured in quarts, with standard sizes ranging from 1.4 to 2.5 quarts.

Saucepans in the 1.4-2.5 quart range are ideal for small families, single cooks, or those who often heat small amounts of liquids. They are easy to wash and store and are perfect for heating sauces, cooking small portions of noodles, or poaching eggs.

A 1.4-quart saucepan is a good choice for heating sauces, while a 1.7-quart saucepan can be used for cooking small quantities of noodles or poaching eggs. These sizes are also suitable for college students or those living alone.

A 2-quart saucepan is a versatile option, allowing you to heat sauces, cook pasta, and prepare rice. Some 2-quart saucepans even come with a steamer that can be used to steam eggs or corn while you cook.

Having two saucepans is a good balance for most homes. A small 1.5 or 2-quart saucepan paired with a larger 3 or 4-quart saucepan will cover most of your cooking needs.

When choosing a saucepan, look for one with a tight-fitting lid and consider the material and price, in addition to the size.

Sauté pans: 3-6 quarts

Sauté pans are a great addition to your kitchen, especially if you cook liquid-based recipes. They are similar in size and design to a frying pan but have tall sides and a large surface area, making them perfect for frying and braising. Sauté pans are also great for one-pan meals and simmering sides.

When it comes to size, 3-quart, 4-quart, and 6-quart sauté pans are the most common options. A 4-quart sauté pan is a good standard size that can accommodate most meals. However, depending on how many people you usually cook for, a 3-quart may be sufficient. If you often cook for a larger group, a 6-quart sauté pan might be a better option.

When choosing a sauté pan, consider the size of your household and how much storage space you have. Additionally, think about the types of dishes you typically prepare and whether you need a pan with a larger surface area for searing or straight sides to hold in liquids and prevent splattering.

Some features to look for when purchasing a sauté pan include a tight-fitting lid to keep moisture in and prevent food from jumping out, riveted handles for a secure grip, and compatibility with your cooktop, including induction. You may also want to opt for a pan that is oven/broiler-safe and has a non-stick coating for easier cleaning.

Overall, a 3-6 quart sauté pan is a versatile and useful addition to your kitchen, offering a happy medium between a frying pan and a stockpot.

Dutch ovens: 5.5-7 quarts

When it comes to Dutch ovens, a capacity of 5.5 to 7 quarts is a versatile and functional option for most home cooks. This size is ideal for preparing a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to roasts and even bread. With its sturdy construction and tight-fitting lid, a Dutch oven of this size can be a workhorse in your kitchen.

One of the key advantages of a 5.5- to 7-quart Dutch oven is its capacity. This size is perfect for feeding a family or a small gathering. You can easily prepare a one-pot meal for four to six people, and there will be enough left over to pack some lunches or enjoy another night. It's a great option for those who like to batch cook or meal prep, as you can make larger quantities of your favorite dishes.

The dimensions of a Dutch oven in this size range are also well-suited for a variety of cooking tasks. The wide, deep shape provides a generous cooking surface, allowing you to sear or brown large cuts of meat or a batch of vegetables. The tall sides help contain splatters and keep your stovetop clean, while also providing structure for layering ingredients or slow-cooking methods.

Additionally, this size Dutch oven is incredibly versatile. You can use it on the stovetop for sautéing, frying, or boiling, as well as in the oven for roasting, baking, or braising. It can handle a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for everything from simmering delicate sauces to baking crusty, artisan loaves of bread. Many Dutch ovens are also safe for use on outdoor grills or campfires, making them an excellent choice for cooking while camping or at a picnic.

When choosing a Dutch oven in this size range, look for one made from durable materials such as cast iron or stainless steel. These materials ensure even heat distribution and retention, leading to consistent cooking results. A well-made Dutch oven will also have a tight-fitting lid, sturdy handles, and a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. Some models even come with additional features such as self-basting lids or built-in thermometers.

Finally, a 5.5- to 7-quart Dutch oven is a great investment due to its longevity. With proper care, a Dutch oven can last a lifetime. They are known for their durability and many even come with lifetime warranties. So, whether you're an experienced home chef or just starting out, a Dutch oven in this size range is a wise addition to your kitchen arsenal.

Stockpots: 6-20 quarts

Stockpots are large pots with a flat bottom and tall sides, usually featuring two handles and a lid. They are typically used for boiling water, cooking pasta, making stock, soups, chilli, and jambalaya.

When it comes to stockpot sizes, the most common capacities range from 6 quarts to 20 quarts. The right size for you will depend on the number of people you usually cook for and the amount of storage space you have.

A 6-quart stockpot is on the smaller side and is suitable for cooking small batches of pasta, soups, and similar dishes. If you plan on cooking a full pound of spaghetti, an 8-quart pot is recommended.

For larger families or groups, a 12-18 quart stockpot is ideal. This size is large enough to hold a chicken carcass or two, making it perfect for DIY stock, big batches of soup, or even canning sauces and pickles.

If you're cooking for a crowd, consider a 16-quart stockpot, which can easily feed a large group and is perfect for homemade chilli.

Remember that larger pots will require more storage space, so consider your kitchen setup when making your decision.

Frequently asked questions