Types of Saucepans

Saucepan Sizes

When it comes to selecting the right saucepan for your commercial kitchen, understanding the different sizes available is crucial. A saucepan's size is determined by its capacity, diameter, and shape, all of which play a significant role in its functionality and versatility. When selecting a saucepan size for your commercial kitchen, consider the types of dishes you will be preparing and the volume of food you will be cooking. Saucepan capacities range from small to extra-large. They can hold anywhere between 1 and 7 quarts of product.

Check out the applications and benefits of each saucepan capacity below. From making French mother sauces to cooking pasta, having a range of saucepan sizes available can help you efficiently handle various cooking tasks and ensure that you have the right tool for the job. We explain how the capacity, diameter, and sides affect the functionality of saucepans so you can make an informed purchasing decision.

1. Small Capacity Saucepans

Small saucepans are typically suggested for use in small cafes and delis. However, they can also be beneficial for larger institutions when preparing a small specialty dish. These saucepans are ideal for serving individual portions without the risk of cross-contamination.

• Capacity: 1-2.75 qt.
• Applications: Use for small portions of soups, sauces, and gravies. They're also perfect for individual servings like a gluten-free dessert for one or two guests.

2. Medium Capacity Saucepans

Medium saucepans are an ideal choice for handling a significant quantity of food without being excessively large for their intended use. It is recommended that all types of establishments, regardless of their size, have a medium-sized saucepan in their kitchen due to its versatility and practicality.

• Capacity: 3-4.5 qt.
• Applications: Use to handle multiple servings of grains, mashed potatoes, and blanched vegetables as well as a heavy custard or cream topping.

3. Large Capacity Saucepans

Large pans are a valuable tool for cooking food in large quantities, which is ideal for bulk cooking purposes. They are particularly beneficial for businesses like casual to upscale restaurants, pizzerias, and catering companies that require preparing meals for a significant number of individuals simultaneously.

• Capacity: 5-7 qt.
• Applications: Use for making pasta sauce, chicken stock, or a specialty soup.

4. Extra-Large Capacity Saucepans

Extra-large saucepans are particularly well-suited for establishments that specialize in serving a limited selection of main dishes. These versatile cookware items are perfect for preparing meals in large quantities, as well as for making components of dishes that will be used across various menu items, such as pasta sauces. Cafeterias, hospitals, and schools can take advantage of the generous size of these saucepans to efficiently cook for a large number of individuals. Additionally, typical restaurants can benefit from the ability to prepare bulk quantities of popular specialty dishes that have a high turnover rate when using these spacious pans.

• Capacity: 7 qt. +
• Applications: Use for making large quantities of stew, pasta sauce, blanching larger vegetables, or steaming king crab legs.

Saucepan Diameters

Saucepan diameters can be loosely grouped into two categories: narrow and wide. We explain the benefits of both styles below.

• Narrow Saucepan Benefits: Less food touches the hottest part of the pan, assisting in moisture retention.
• Wide Saucepan Benefits: Heats more quickly and evenly and acts as a large cooking surface, so it's perfect for braising.

Saucepan Side Styles

The final contributing factor to the size and functionality of a saucepan is whether it has straight sides or tapered sides. Explore the benefits of each below.

• Straight-Sides Benefits: Provides better heat conduction for more versatile cooking. To accelerate cooking, pair the pan with a lid.
• Tapered Sides Benefits: Flared sides give the pan a shape ideal for stirring, so use them when cooking food that needs to be at a consistently low temperature.

Saucepan Materials

The most common materials saucepans are made from are below. Each material has its benefits, so we help you choose which one is best for your needs.

Saucepan Handles

Since saucepans are characterized by a long handle, looking at the types of handles offered is a necessity when buying a saucepan. You may also see some pans that mention a coating on their handles - this coating is used to protect hands during use by keeping the handle cool to the touch. When this option isn't available, you can always look at getting a compatible handle cover.