Cooking with a Large Pan: 5 Delicious Recipes You Need to Try

Choosing the right large pan can make a world of difference to your cooking. When selecting a pan, consider its material. Cast iron pans are great for high-heat searing and oven-safe dishes, while stainless steel pans are versatile and durable. Non-stick pans, on the other hand, are perfect for cooking delicate foods like eggs or fish.

The size of the pan is equally important. A 12-inch pan is a good starting point for most families. However, if you often cook for a larger group, or love making one-pot meals, a larger pan may be more suitable.

Now that you’ve chosen your large pan, here are some tips to use it effectively:

1. Heat Distribution: Large pans are excellent at distributing heat evenly across the cooking surface. To fully utilize this, always preheat your pan before adding food.

2. Avoid Overcrowding: Even though your pan is large, avoid the temptation to overcrowd it with ingredients. Overcrowding could lead to steaming rather than browning, and this might affect the texture and taste of your dish.

3. Use the right utensils: If you’re using a non-stick large pan, ensure you use utensils that won’t scratch the surface. Silicone or wooden utensils are typically safe options.

4. Proper Cleaning: Clean your pan after each use. For most pans, warm water and a soft sponge will do the trick. If you have a cast-iron pan, avoid soap as it can strip the seasoning off the pan.

Recipe 1: One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

This dish is a simple yet delicious meal that combines the protein-packed goodness of chicken with an array of colorful, nutrient-rich vegetables. All cooked together in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound of baby potatoes, halved
• 2 cups of baby carrots
• 1 large onion, cut into chunks
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation and Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and then sprinkle the rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to your large pan, spreading it out in an even layer.
5. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

This one-pan chicken and veggies recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors. It’s the perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious. Enjoy!

Recipe 2: Large Pan Paella

This Large Pan Paella is a delightful medley of rice, colorful vegetables, and assorted seafood. A classic Spanish dish that’s both satisfying and visually impressive, it’s perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. The aromatic spices, coupled with the different textures and flavors, make this one-pan masterpiece a true culinary treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups of Arborio rice
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound of mussels, scrubbed and de-bearded
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation and Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the rice, turmeric, and paprika, ensuring that the rice is well coated in the oil and spices.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.
4. Stir in the frozen peas, shrimp, and mussels. Cover the pan again and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

This Large Pan Paella is a festive, flavorful feast that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Recipe 3: Hearty Skillet Lasagna

This Hearty Skillet Lasagna brings all the robust flavors of traditional lasagna but simplifies the process by using just one skillet. It’s a rich, savory dish filled with layers of pasta, cheese, and a hearty meat sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest, without the usual fuss of lasagna making.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation and Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broken lasagna noodles, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
3. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture over the meat and noodle mixture in the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Sprinkle the basil on top of the lasagna, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Enjoy this Hearty Skillet Lasagna, a convenient and comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for Italian cuisine.

Recipe 4: Large Pan Stir-Fry

This Large Pan Stir-Fry is a vibrant, versatile, and quick-to-prepare dish. Packed with lean proteins, colorful veggies, and a flavorful sauce, it’s a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep, this stir-fry is endlessly customizable to suit your dietary preferences and pantry availability.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 pound of chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snow peas)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Preparation and Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger, and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Return the chicken to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
4. Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture. Cook and stir until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve the stir-fry hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

This Large Pan Stir-Fry is a delicious, nutritious meal that’s as fun to customize as it is to eat. Enjoy the dynamic flavors and textures in every bite!

Recipe 5: Skillet Apple Pie

This Skillet Apple Pie is a rustic and homely dessert that brings the classic flavors of apple pie straight to your table. Made in a skillet for simplicity, it features tender, spiced apples nestled in a flaky crust. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a holiday gathering, this comforting dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
• 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cup of sugar
• 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Additional sugar for sprinkling

Preparation and Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Melt the butter in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Remove from heat.
4. Place one pie crust in the skillet, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
5. Pour the apple mixture into the crust.
6. Cover with the second pie crust, tucking the edges under and crimping them together with the bottom crust. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
7. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with additional sugar.
8. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
9. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Skillet Apple Pie, with its warm, spiced apples and buttery crust, is like a hug in dessert form. Enjoy it as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Cleaning and Caring for Your Large Pan

Proper cleaning and care can significantly extend the lifespan of your large pan, keeping it in good condition for years of delicious meals. Here are some tips:

1. Cool Down: Always let your pan cool down naturally before cleaning. Plunging a hot pan into cold water can cause it to warp.
2. Avoid Harsh Scrubbers: Use a soft sponge or cloth to clean your pan. Metal scrubbers or steel wool can scratch the surface.
3. Mild Detergent: For most pans, a mild dish soap and warm water will do the trick. However, if you have a cast iron pan, avoid soap as it can strip the seasoning.
4. Stubborn Residue: If food is stuck to the pan, fill it with a mixture of vinegar and water (in a 1:3 ratio), bring to a boil, then let it cool and wash as usual. Baking soda can also be used to remove stubborn stains.
5. Dry Thoroughly: After washing, dry your pan immediately and thoroughly to prevent rust. You can place it on low heat on your stove to evaporate any remaining moisture.
6. Regular Seasoning: If you have a cast iron or carbon steel pan, regular seasoning is essential. After each clean, lightly coat the pan with a layer of vegetable oil and heat it until it smokes. Then, let it cool and wipe off excess oil. This process maintains the pan’s non-stick properties and protects against rust.
7. Proper Storage: Store your pan in a dry place. If stacking pans, consider using a pan protector or a soft cloth in between each to prevent scratches.

By following these tips, you can maintain your large pan’s performance and prolong its life, making it a staple in your kitchen for years to come.

Conclusion

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the versatility and convenience of using a large pan in the kitchen. We’ve seen how it can be used to create a variety of dishes, from the hearty Skillet Apple Pie to numerous other recipes that are yet to be discovered.

Cooking with a large pan offers several advantages. It provides ample space for your ingredients, allowing them to cook evenly. Its generous size is ideal for family meals or when entertaining guests, ensuring that everyone gets a hearty serving. Moreover, a large pan, especially when well-maintained, can provide excellent heat distribution, contributing to better cooking results.

The Skillet Apple Pie recipe showcased not only the delicious outcome that can be achieved but also demonstrated the practicality of using a large pan. The simplicity of preparing, cooking, and serving a dish all in one pan cannot be overstated.