Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The 10 Best Roasting Pans for Your Thanksgiving Turkey

Cooked turkey in a roasting pan displayed on a counter.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

It’s almost here. The one day of the year that roasting pans get to put in work — Thanksgiving. If you’ve got your turkey already picked out and the brine ready to go, but no worthwhile roasting pan to speak of, you probably want to acquire one ASAP.

But, there are multiple reasons you should invest in one of these essential cooking tools. Roasting pans are more than just vessels for containing hefty cuts of meat or large portions of veggies while they crisp to a golden brown in the oven. Roasting pans can retain and reflect heat and speed up or slow down the cooking process as needed.

They aren’t just for roasting. You can also use them to braise, sear, stir-fry, or even smoke. That’s why you’ll want a durable, high-quality roasting pan that will stand up to any cooking need. Those disposable, aluminum roasting pans are just not going to cut it.

When looking to buy a new roasting pan, there’s an overwhelming number of options to consider. Of course, you can narrow down your options depending on several factors, such as price, size, and shape. Still, you’ll be left with a wide range of pans to pick from.

For that reason, we’ve rounded up the best cookware options, including the best nonstick roasting pans, to save you from the hassle. Hopefully, you find your ideal pan from these options!

Best Overall: Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 6 Qt. Stainless Steel Roasting Pan with Rack

Product image of the Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 6 Qt. Stainless Steel Roasting Pan with Rack.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Designed to hold large roasts, chickens, and turkeys, this Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 6 Qt. Stainless Steel Roasting Pan measures 16 inches to provide adequate space for cooking meals for parties or family dinners. This Cuisinart pan boasts heat surround technology for even cooking results, and its tapered rims prevent spills and drips while pouring. Its Cool Grip handles make carrying the pan relatively easy, and it’s oven-safe up to 550 degrees, making it the best turkey roasting pan.

Best Versatile: Circulon Nonstick Roasting Pan/Roaster with Rack

Product image of the Circulon Nonstick Roasting Pan/Roaster with Rack.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Circulon Nonstick Roasting Pan makes for a great addition to your kitchen collection. This pan has heavy-duty steel construction for even distribution of heat, while its wide handles ensure a confident grip. The pan also has superior nonstick technology for quick food release, and its convenient U-shaped rack keeps your chicken or turkey off the bottom of the pan to prevent burning or sticking.

Best Nonstick: Farberware Bakeware Nonstick Steel Roaster with Flat Rack

Product image of the Farberware Bakeware Nonstick Steel Roaster with Flat Rack.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

You can also add convenience and dependability to your kitchen with this Farberware Bakeware Nonstick Steel Roaster with Flat Rack. The pan has a removable, chrome-plated flat rack that raises your meats for seamless dripping of fats. It boasts heavy-duty steel construction to prevent warping and ensure even heat distribution, while its nonstick surface makes cleaning exceptionally easy.

Best Oval Pan: Columbian Home Products 18″ Black Oval Roaster

Product image of the Columbian Home Products 18" Black Oval Roaster.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you want an oval roasting pan, you’ll probably like this Columbian Home Products Black Oval Roaster. This pan measures 18 inches, making it ideal for cooking enough dinner for the whole family. It’s made from graniteware material for maximum durability, and it has a dark interior that absorbs the oven’s energy for even cooking. The pan features a dimpled lid that locks in moisture for a flavorful dish.

Best Serving Size: T-fal Simply Cook Nonstick Cookware, Roaster with Rack

Product image of the T-fal Simply Cook Nonstick Cookware, Roaster with Rack.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

This T-fal Simply Cook Nonstick Pan makes another excellent option for cooking delicious meals for parties or family dinners. Its ProGlide nonstick interior prevents food from sticking on the pan, while its even heat base ensures consistent cooking results for your meats. The pan is dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean, and it is safe in the oven up to 350 degrees.

Best Premium: All-Clad Stainless-Steel Flared Roasting Pan

Product image of the All-Clad Stainless-Steel Flared Roasting Pan.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re willing to spend a little more on your roasting pan, this All-Clad Stainless-Steel Flared Roasting Pan is worth the spend. It has three-ply construction for heat retention and even heat distribution, while its low flared sides ensure consistent browning and uniform cooking. The riveted stainless-steel handles are always cool for safe handling, and it’s handcrafted to deliver a quality product that withstands the everyday kitchen grind.

Best Budget: Chicago Metallic Professional Roast Pan with Non-Stick Rack

Product image of the Chicago Metallic Professional Roast Pan with Non-Stick Rack.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Ideal for everyday roasting tasks, this Chicago Metallic Professional Roast Pan makes the best pan for roasting vegetables, meats, fish, etc. It has a non-stick coating for easy cleanup, and it’s made from heavy-weight aluminized steel for even cooking and superior heat conduction. The pan also includes a nonstick roasting rack to allow excess juices and fats to drip into the pan.

Best Aluminum: Anolon 16 in. Non-Stick Hard Anodized Aluminum Roasting Pan

Product image of the Anolon 16 in. Non-Stick Hard Anodized Aluminum Roasting Pan.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Cooking food needs to be effortless, and this Anolon 16-inch Aluminum Roasting Pan can help with that. The pan has a removable rack for effortless moving of foods in and out of the pan, while its triple-layer premium nonstick surface keeps meats from sticking. It comes with two stainless steel lifting forks for moving your roast and one baster for making your birds and meats flavorful. Bear in mind that the rack and pan are oven-safe up to 400 degrees.

Best Carbon Steel: Ecolution Carbon Steel Non-Stick Roasting Pan with Rack

Product image of the Ecolution Carbon Steel Non-Stick Roasting Pan with Rack.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

This Ecolution Carbon Steel Non-Stick Roasting Pan doubles as a casserole or lasagna baking pan, making it a versatile option to add to your kitchen. It’s made from heavy-gauge aluminum for consistent heat distribution, while its ergonomic riveted handles provide a sturdy and comfortable grip. The pan has a superior nonstick surface to prevent food from sticking and allows you to use less oil for healthier and tasty meals.

Best Stainless Steel: Tramontina – Gourmet Prima 13.5″ Roasting Pan

Product image of the Tramontina - Gourmet Prima 13.5" Roasting Pan.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Preparing everything from vegetables to juicy meats is easy with this Tramontina Gourmet Prima Roasting Pan. It’s made of heavy-gauge 18/10 stainless steel for solid construction, which ensures uniform even heat distribution. It has a dishwasher-safe design for effortless cleaning, and it can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees in the oven. This pan has wide handles for a comfortable and secure grip. It’s definitely one of the best stainless steel roasting pans!

What Is the Best Pan for Roasting Turkey?

When roasting turkey, it’s vital to note that different pans yield different results — however, many pans work well.

The best roasting pan for turkey is one with a rack, which allows optimal air circulation and ensures even browning while crisping up the skin. It also provides space for adding vegetables under your turkey as it roasts.

Some people use a pan with no rack, but they add vegetables at the bottom to prop their bird off the pan. While you can use a pan without a rack, there’s a chance you might struggle with your turkey sticking to the pan.

The right pan should also have handles for the effortless moving of your turkey from the oven. Most pan materials produce great results for your roast, though stainless steel and aluminum are the popular options.

Are Roasting Pans Worth It?

If your roast meats and birds regularly, you’ll definitely need a roasting pan. It makes roasting meats and vegetables effortless while delivering rich and flavorful meals for dinner or parties. It’s also a worthwhile addition to your kitchen if you like experimenting with new recipes.

However, buying a dedicated roasting pan large enough to roast a turkey isn’t worth it for an individual who rarely cooks large meals — it will end up taking up more storage space in your kitchen. Instead, you can work with items you already have in your kitchen or find other alternatives for a roasting pan.

What Can I Use Instead of a Roasting Pan?

If you prefer using alternatives for a roasting pan, be sure to find options that are large enough to accommodate your chicken or turkey. Good examples include cake pan, casserole dish, broiler pan, and foil roasting pan. Other options, such as a rimmed sheet pan and an oven-proof skillet, are perfect, but you’ll only use them for roasting small cuts of meat.

However, there are various considerations to take into account. Some materials, such as ceramic, can’t withstand certain temperatures that your recipe may require — be sure to check their temperature ratings. Foils pans are great, but they’re flimsy — you’ll need to place your foiled meats on a sturdy baking sheet for safe transport.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Steven Johnson
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Steven Johnson is a chef-turned-content strategist. He now helps companies attract and retain more customers through content…
The 10 best aprons for men: Cook your meals in style
Cook in style by tying on one of these masculine aprons

Spills and splatters happen all the time – even (and often) in professional kitchens. Kitchen aprons are a chef's best friend. Whether you're a seasoned pro in the kitchen or a culinary novice, an apron is a staple if you want to keep your clothes mess-free and your essential cooking tools within reach. Chef aprons are like a coat of armor, offering protection from an overzealous mixer, food processor, or stubborn grease stain. It doesn't matter how good your food is, it's not worth ruining your favorite shirt over.

There's an apron for every kind of chef, whether you're a BBQ champ that needs something a little more sturdy to withstand the hot temps or a baker that needs pockets to keep measuring spoons, dish towels, and thermometers handy. Even if you don't think you need an apron, you'll be surprised by the functionality an apron can provide upon your first wear. There are plenty of aprons for men that are serious in comfort and durability without being too pretentious. Below, we've rounded up some of the best men's kitchen aprons that will upgrade both your cooking and personal style.

Read more
These are the 7 best Mexican restaurants this side of the border
There's no shortage of good Mexican restaurants here in the states — These are the very best
The Original Ninfa’s

Of the many truly great cuisines out there, Mexican must be in the mix. It belongs in the same breath as Italian and French, full of diversity, dynamism, incredible age-old recipes and techniques, and a lot of food that's just plain fun to eat.

Yes, our country is home to some fantastic Mexican restaurants, from family-friendly outposts to high-end establishments redefining the very genre. And it's not just happening in border states like Texas, Arizona, and California. There's great Mexican cuisine all over the United States.
So, while this is by no means the definitive list of best Mexican restaurants in the nation, it is a collection of some of the finest. If you’re looking for an iconic experience, authentic dishes, or simply a great a meal, these options will never disappoint.

Read more
The 10 best sweet treats for your Valentine’s Day celebration
These desserts are perfect for sharing with your Valentine
Inside Out Red Velvet Cookies

Some folks love Valentine's Day, spending the day with your special someone, fully embracing the hearts and flowers of it all. Others take great pride in declaring it a commercial greeting card holiday, and rebelling against the societal pressures set upon them. But no matter how you look at the day, it has one benefit for all: it's an excuse to make really good desserts. These 10 Valentine's Day dessert recipes range from entry-level to expert offering sugary bliss to cooks and bakers of any level. They also vary in prep and cook time, so no matter how busy you are you'll be able to whip one of these up no problem.

These Valentine's Day desserts would be great after a delicious Valentine's Day dinner or while watching a Valentine's Day movie.
Related Guides

Read more