Turkey Pans

When it comes to picking out the right turkey pan, there’s more to consider than just the size of your bird. Folks around here know that a sturdy roaster can make all the difference, whether you’re cooking up a big feast for family or just want plenty of leftovers for sandwiches and pot pies. Turkey pans come in all shapes and materials—heavy-duty stainless steel for those who want something that’ll last year after year, nonstick carbon steel for easy cleanup, or even disposable foil pans for those times when you’d rather spend your evening visiting than scrubbing dishes. If you’re planning to roast a whole turkey, make sure your pan is big enough to handle the job—a 16-inch pan is usually good for birds up to 15 pounds, but if you’ve got a real whopper, you’ll want to look for something 18 inches or larger. And don’t forget to check your oven’s measurements before you buy, since those sturdy handles can add a couple extra inches to the pan’s footprint.

A good turkey pan isn’t just for Thanksgiving or the holidays, either. As the weather warms and folks start gathering for reunions, cookouts, or Sunday dinners, a solid roasting pan comes in handy for all kinds of meals—think hams, chickens, briskets, or even a mess of vegetables from the garden. Many pans come with a V-shaped or flat rack that lifts the turkey right up out of the drippings, letting hot air get all around for crispy skin and juicy meat. That rack also makes it easier to whip up homemade gravy from the pan drippings, which is a tradition in a lot of kitchens. For folks who like to try something new, turkey pans make a thoughtful gift for newlyweds, first-time hosts, or anyone setting up a new home. And if you’re in the mood for a different kind of turkey feast, you might want to check out our Turkey Fryer Pots for outdoor frying or big-batch cooking. No matter what you’re serving up, the right pan can help make your meal a little easier and a whole lot tastier, letting you focus on good food and good company instead of worrying about cleanup or uneven cooking.