Lasagna is one of the most beloved Italian-American dishes, with layers of noodles, cheese, tomato sauce, and meat that come together to form a hearty and satisfying meal. While lasagna may seem intimidating to make, having the right lasagna pan can make assembling this baked pasta dish much easier.
The lasagna pan is an essential piece of cookware for making perfect lasagna every time. With so many options on the market, from disposable aluminum pans to ceramic baking dishes, it can be tricky to determine what type of lasagna pan is right for your needs. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know when shopping for lasagna pans, from material types to size and shape considerations.
We'll provide tips on how to select the ideal pan for baking delicious lasagna with nicely browned edges and layers that stay intact when sliced. You'll also find answers to frequently asked questions about lasagna pans to further help inform your purchasing decision. With this guide's advice, you'll be able to confidently choose a high-quality lasagna pan for making restaurant-worthy lasagna in your own kitchen.
HONGBAKE Lasagna Pan (Dark Grey)
This durable HONGBAKE lasagna pan features a nonstick dark grey coating and stainless steel handles for a stylish look. With 3-inch tall sides, lasagna layers can be generously portioned without spilling over. The carbon steel material ensures even heating while the reinforced wide handles provide a secure grip when moving the pan in and out of the oven.
This 15 x 10 x 3-inch pan is a great size for baking hearty casseroles and layered dishes. The rolled edges protect hands from sharp corners when gripping sides. The reinforced stainless handles feature a thumb rest for comfortable handling.
Compared to glass or ceramic, this metal pan heats up rapidly for quicker cooking times. The Whitford coating provides superior nonstick performance so foods release easily. Cool completely before hand washing to preserve the nonstick surface.
Key features:
- 15 x 10 x 3-inch size holds generous portions
- Durable carbon steel construction
- Dark grey Whitford nonstick coating
- Stainless steel handles with thumb grips
Pros:
- Generous 3-inch depth prevents spills
- Even heating from carbon steel
- Easy food release from nonstick surface
- Comfortable handles for safe grip
Cons:
- Hand wash only
casaWare Lasagna Pan (Blue Granite)
With its eye-catching blue granite exterior, this casaWare ceramic-coated lasagna pan adds style to any kitchen. The rectangular 13 x 10 x 3-inch size accommodates layered casseroles while the durable carbon steel construction ensures even heating.
The superior nonstick performance allows effortless food release and quick cleanup. Simply wipe gently with a soft cloth after cooking. The textured metallic finish resists scratches and won't peel or blister at high oven temperatures up to 450°F.
The pan's straight sides make it easy to cut and serve foods right in the pan. Rolled edges eliminate sharp corners to protect hands when gripping the sides. With its chef-recommended 3-inch depth, this pan contains ingredients neatly during baking.
Key features:
- Stylish blue granite exterior
- Carbon steel construction
- Superior nonstick ceramic coating
Pros:
- Eye-catching design
- Even heating performance
- Easy food release and cleanup
- Generous 3-inch depth
Cons:
- Hand wash recommended
Pyrex Casserole Dish with Lid
This versatile Pyrex baking dish set lets you effortlessly switch between recipes needing a deep or shallow pan. The 5.2-quart glass dish paired with a flip lid provides two convenient baking vessels.
The deep base is ideal for layered casseroles and roasted meats. When flipped, the lid converts to a shallow pan perfectly sized for cookies, hors d'oeuvres and more. The clear tempered glass construction allows monitoring food while baking.
The glass pan and lid go directly from fridge to oven or microwave for convenient one-dish cooking. The nested storage design minimizes cabinet space. Durable Pyrex glass is conveniently freezer, microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.
Key features:
- Two convenient baking vessels
- Generous 5.2-quart capacity
- Durable tempered glass construction
Pros:
- Deep and shallow baking options
- Compact nested storage
- Microwave, oven and freezer safe
Cons:
- Not induction suitable
- Hand wash recommended
TeamFar Lasagna Pan (Silver)
With its brushed silver finish, this sturdy TeamFar lasagna pan provides an attractive serving option once baked dishes come out of the oven. The rectangular 12.4 x 9.75 x 2-inch size accommodates casseroles, layered lasagna and more.
Built from durable stainless steel, this pan heats evenly to ensure uniform cooking. The generous depth contains ingredients neatly during baking. Rolled edges eliminate sharp corners that can hurt hands while transferring hot pans.
The brushed cooking surface allows effortless food release for quick and easy cleanup. This versitile pan also works well for roasting vegetables or meats. Offering excellent versatility, this pan transitions beautifully from oven to table when serving guests.
Key features:
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Rectangular 12.4 x 9.75 x 2-inch size
- Brushed silver finish
Pros:
- Even heating from stainless steel
- Rolled edges protect hands
- Easy cleanup with brushed surface
- Attractive for oven-to-table use
Cons:
- Hand wash recommended
Cook Pro Roasting Pan Set (Stainless)
With this complete Cook Pro roasting pan set, preparing holiday meals and dinner parties is easier than ever. The set contains two oblong stainless steel pans along with a pair of chrome cooling racks for convenient roasting and baking.
The larger 16.5 x 12 x 2.5-inch pan is ideal for roasting turkey or glazing a holiday ham. The smaller 12.5 x 9.5 x 2.25-inch pan suits making layered lasagna or casserole dishes. Both pans offer generous capacity to feed gatherings.
Built from sturdy stainless steel, these pans heat evenly to prevent burning. The included foldable handles simplify transferring pans in and out of the oven. Allowing proper airflow, the chrome racks help foods cool uniformly after cooking.
This versatile 4-piece set transitions beautifully from oven or stovetop cooking to tabletop serving. The stylish mirror finish also makes these pans suitable for presenting foods to guests.
Key features:
- Complete 4-piece baking set
- Two stainless steel baking pans
- Matching chrome cooling racks
Pros:
- Spacious oblong pan sizes
- Even heating from stainless steel
- Handy foldable handles
- Elegant mirror finish
Cons:
- Hand wash recommended
DOWAN Casserole Dish
Durable bakeware that provides consistent baking results. The DOWAN Casserole Dish features a sturdy ceramic construction that withstands oven temperatures up to 450°F without cracking. The non-stick glazed interior ensures effortless food release and simplifies cleanup.
With dimensions of 15.6" x 9.3" x 3.1", this spacious rectangular casserole provides ample capacity to prepare hearty portions of lasagna, chicken, or roast for family dinners. The convenient built-in handles provide a safe, steady grip when transferring the hot dish in and out of the oven. The elegant white finish serves as a versatile blank canvas for both casual everyday meals and formal dinner parties.
Key features:
- 135 oz capacity
- Ceramic construction
- Non-stick oven-safe finish
- Rectangular baking dish with handles
Pros:
- Roomy size perfect for lasagnas or roasts
- Durable and resistant to high oven temperatures
- Non-stick surface ensures easy food release
- Elegant white color complements any meal presentation
Cons:
- Hand-wash only
Chicago Metallic Professional Lasagna Pan
The Chicago Metallic Professional Lasagna Trio Pan offers a creative solution for serving multiple lasagna variations in one pan. With three separate non-stick channels, cooks can customize each section to satisfy both meat-eaters and vegetarians.
The length and width of each channel perfectly fits standard lasagna noodles without the need to cut extra-long sheets. This convenience aids quick assembly. The exclusive included spatula easily slices perfect portions from each section without creating a messy pile.
The pan's commercial-grade steel construction promotes even heat distribution and resists warping. The sturdy built-in handles enable a steady, secure grip when removing the filled pan from the oven. Despite the generous capacity, the pan remains surprisingly lightweight.
Key features:
- 3 individual non-stick lasagna channels
- Steel wire reinforced edges
- Spatula included for neat portioning
- Commercial grade steel
Pros:
- Allows cooking varied lasagna recipes in one pan
- Perfect fit for standard noodles
- Sturdy construction for even baking
- Spatula provides easy mess-free serving
Cons:
- Hand-wash recommended
USA Pan Lasagna Pan
With a large 16" x 10.37" x 3" baking surface, the USA Pan Lasagna Pan provides ample capacity to create mouthwatering homemade lasagnas. The pan's rectangular shape and generous depth easily fit up to six lasagna noodles layered across the bottom.
The commercial-grade steel construction conducts heat evenly across the corrugated non-stick surface for consistent baking results. The fluted texture also improves air circulation and enables quick release of baked foods.
Thick rolled edges reinforced with steel wire boost durability and resist warping, even at high oven temperatures up to 450°F. The wide side handles ensure a steady grip when removing the heavy filled pan from the oven.
Key features:
- Steel wire reinforced edges
- Commercial grade steel
- Aluminum non-stick coating
- Wide grip handles
Pros:
- Roomy rectangular pan fits 6 noodles
- Durable steel withstands high heat
- Fluted surface enhances air flow
- Non-stick surface simplifies release and cleaning
Cons:
- Hand-wash recommended for longevity
casaWare Lasagna Pan
The casaWare Lasagna Pan features an innovative ceramic-coated non-stick surface that simplifies baking and cleanup. The PFOA-free ceramic coating provides an easy food release and enables a quick wipe or scrub clean.
Constructed from durable carbon steel with rolled edges, this rectangular 15" x 10" x 3" pan evenly conducts and retains heat for consistent baking. The built-in handles allow for safe transfer to and from the 450°F oven.
Available in stylish granite colors like red, blue, silver, and rose gold, this pan combines fashion and function. The eye-catching hues add character to the kitchen and tablescape.
Key features:
- Ceramic non-stick surface
- Carbon steel body
- Heat-resistant to 450°F
- Colored granite exterior
Pros:
- Non-stick surface simplifies release and cleaning
- Durable carbon steel retains heat
- Withstands high oven temperatures
- Stylish granite color options
Cons:
- Avoid metal utensils to prevent scratching
Mora Ceramics Baking Dish
This extra-deep Mora Ceramics Baking Dish provides generous capacity to create layered casseroles, lasagnas, or roasts. With dimensions of 12.5" x 9.5" x 3.5", this spacious porcelain pan enables preparation of hearty portions for family dinners or entertaining.
The proprietary lightweight Paladin clay withstands oven, microwave, or freezer use while enabling easier serving. The dishwasher-safe white porcelain glaze resists staining and cleans easily by hand or machine.
Elegant curved handles provide a graceful aesthetic while offering a steady hold when transferring the hot pan. The versatile rectangular dish serves as the perfect vessel for both rustic family meals and sophisticated dinner parties.
Key features:
- Lead-free porcelain clay
- Oven, microwave, freezer safe
- Elegant white glaze
- Paladin clay for reduced weight
Pros:
- Ample capacity for layered dishes
- Durable lightweight porcelain
- Elegant design elevates meal presentation
- Easy care cleanup
Cons:
- Porcelain may chip if dropped
Buying Guide for Lasagna Pans
When shopping for a lasagna pan, there are a few key factors to keep in mind, including material, size and shape, and added features like handles. Considering these aspects will help you select the right pan for your lasagna recipes.
Materials
Lasagna pans come in a range of materials, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum
Disposable aluminum lasagna pans are lightweight, inexpensive options perfect for making lasagna to bring to potlucks and parties. Aluminum conducts heat well for even baking, though these single-use pans can warp or dent easily. They also react to acidic ingredients like tomatoes, so lasagna may pick up a metallic taste.
Glass
Glass baking dishes allow you to see the layers of lasagna as it bakes. Glass heats evenly and won't react with acidic ingredients. However, it's heavier and more fragile than other materials. Sudden temperature changes can also cause it to crack or shatter.
Ceramic
Ceramic lasagna pans provide excellent heat distribution for consistent baking results. Ceramic is durable, resistant to scratches, and easy to clean. But it's heavy and may chip if dropped. Some ceramic pans can't be used under the broiler.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel lasagna pans are durable, non-reactive, and oven safe. Stainless steel conducts heat well, though it can develop hot spots, leading to uneven cooking. Stainless steel pans also tend to be more expensive.
Size
When deciding on size, consider both the dimensions of your oven and how much lasagna you typically make.
Full-Size
Full-size lasagna pans are around 13x9 inches and hold enough lasagna to feed 8-12 people. This size works well for large gatherings and potlucks. The large surface area also makes it easy to get perfect browned top and edges.
Half-Size
Half-size pans measure about 8x8 inches and are good for smaller households of 2-4 people. The smaller pan size lets you make just what you need without leftovers. Half-size pans can fit in more oven models as well.
Mini
Mini lasagna pans are ideal for individual sized portions. They allow you to make single-serving lasagnas with fun flavor combinations. Mini pans usually measure around 5x3 inches and hold 1-2 servings.
Shape
In addition to rectangular pans, lasagna pans come in round and square shapes.
Round
Round lasagna pans can provide a nice presentation for special occasions. They often have sloped edges that encourage even browning. One downside is round pans may require additional alterations when layering the lasagna noodles.
Square
The straight sides of square lasagna pans help the noodles stay aligned in neat layers. Square pans also efficiently use the space in your oven while providing plenty of surface area for delicious crispy edges.
Added Features
Handles
Pans with handles allow for easy gripping when moving the lasagna in and out of the oven. Look for sturdy handles that stay cool while baking.
Lids
Some pans include plastic lids, allowing you to refrigerate or freeze leftover lasagna. Lids also come in handy when transporting lasagna to potlucks.
Non-Stick Coating
A non-stick coating prevents ingredients from sticking to the pan surface. This allows for easier cleaning.
FAQ
What type of pan is best for freezing lasagna?
Aluminum disposable pans are the best choice for freezing lasagna. The thin aluminum allows lasagna to freeze and reheat quickly. Aluminum pans don't shatter like glass when exposed to extreme temperature changes in the freezer. Disposable pans also save you from worrying about cleaning up baked-on sauce.
Should lasagna pans be greased before baking?
Greasing the pan isn't necessary for most materials like aluminum and ceramic, which allow lasagna to release easily after baking. However, you may want to grease glass baking dishes to help prevent sticking and make serving simpler. Avoid greasing non-stick lasagna pans, as this can interfere with the coating.
What size pan works best for cooking lasagna in an Instant Pot?
A 7-inch round pan is the recommended size for cooking lasagna in an Instant Pot. The smaller diameter allows the pan to fit inside the Instant Pot's inner pot. This size pan can make around 4 servings of lasagna. For larger quantities, look for an oblong 7 x 3.5 inch stainless steel pan that will hold 6-8 servings.
Is it better to assemble or bake lasagna directly in the pan?
Assembling the lasagna right in the baking pan you'll cook it in can help the layers retain their shape better when cutting servings. Building the lasagna in a separate dish and transferring it to the pan before baking can cause it to break apart more easily. Assemble in the pan you plan to bake your lasagna in whenever possible.
How long does homemade lasagna last in the refrigerator?
A homemade lasagna made with standard ingredients like cooked pasta, tomato sauce, meat, and cheese will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to wrap the lasagna tightly and store it towards the back of the fridge where temperature is most consistent. Reheat refrigerated lasagna within this time frame for food safety.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect pan is the first step to making irresistible lasagna for family dinners, parties, and potlucks. By considering the pan material, size, shape, and extra features outlined in this guide, you can determine the ideal lasagna pan for your cooking needs. Look for durable materials like aluminum, ceramic, or stainless steel that promote even baking. Make sure to choose a pan size suited for the amount of lasagna you regularly make, factoring in how many people you usually serve. The right lasagna pan will help you achieve delicious results with layers intact and a perfectly browned, bubbly top and edges. With your new pan, you can look forward to boiled noodle perfection and melted cheese bliss with every lasagna you bake.
Resources:
- Allrecipes - The Best Lasagna Pans for Your Comfort Food Cooking - This article provides a list of the best lasagna pans for cooking lasagna, including the Cuisinart Chef's Classic Enameled Cast Iron Lasagna Pan, which is durable and has a non-stick surface.
- The Spruce Eats - The 8 Best Lasagna Bakeware Pans in 2023 - This article provides a list of the best lasagna bakeware pans, including the Emile Henry Modern Classics Rectangular Baker, which is resistant to thermal shock and has a large 5-quart capacity.
- Saveur - Crispy on Top, Gooey in the Middle—The Best Lasagna Pans Get it Right Every Time - This article provides a guide to six standout lasagna pan designs, including the USA Pan Bakeware Aluminized Steel Lasagna Pan, which is made of heavy-gauge aluminized steel and has a non-stick coating.
- Simply Recipes - The Best Lasagna Pans in 2022 - This article provides a list of the best lasagna pans that can hold all the pasta layers, are durable, and handle heat well, including the All-Clad Stainless Steel Lasagna Pan, which is versatile and easy to clean.
- Epicurious - What You Need to Make Lasagna: Our Favorite Tools and Ingredients - This article provides a list of essential tools for making lasagna, including the Staub Ceramic Lasagna Pan, which has big handles, a classic design, and plenty of depth for building lasagna layers.