best detroit style pizza pans

Best Detroit Style Pizza Pans: Get That Authentic Square Slice

Detroit-style pizza, known for its thick, airy crust, crispy cheese edges, and tangy tomato sauce, requires a specific type of pan to achieve its signature characteristics. These pans are typically rectangular or square, deep, and made from steel. Selecting the right pan is crucial for replicating the authentic Detroit-style experience at home.

What Makes a Great Detroit Style Pizza Pan?

Several factors contribute to the quality of a Detroit-style pizza pan. These include the material, thickness, dimensions, and whether or not it’s pre-seasoned. Let’s delve into each of these characteristics:

Material: Steel is Key

Steel, particularly aluminized steel, is the material of choice for Detroit-style pizza pans. Steel conducts heat evenly, ensuring that the crust cooks properly and develops a crispy, golden-brown exterior. Aluminized steel offers enhanced corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of the pan.

Thickness Matters

A thicker pan provides better heat retention, crucial for achieving the characteristic crispy crust. Thicker pans also resist warping at high temperatures, ensuring even cooking and consistent results.

Dimensions: Rectangular or Square?

Traditional Detroit-style pizza pans are rectangular, often 10×14 inches. However, square pans, typically 8×8 or 9×9 inches, are also available and suitable for smaller batches or individual pizzas. Choose the size that best fits your needs and oven capacity.

Pre-Seasoned vs. Unseasoned

Pre-seasoned pans have a non-stick coating applied during manufacturing. While convenient, pre-seasoned pans may not develop the same level of non-stick properties as a properly seasoned bare steel pan. Unseasoned pans require initial seasoning but can develop a superior non-stick surface with proper care. You can read more about seasoning of metal pans on Wikipedia.

Top Detroit Style Pizza Pan Recommendations

While specific brand recommendations can vary depending on availability and personal preferences, here are a few factors to consider when making your selection:

• LloydPans Kitchenware: Known for their high-quality aluminized steel pans specifically designed for Detroit-style pizza. They offer various sizes and options, including pre-seasoned and unseasoned pans.
• Detroit Style Pizza Co.: Offers a pan specifically designed for making Detroit style pizza, ensuring an authentic experience.
• General Restaurant Supply Stores: Many restaurant supply stores carry durable and affordable steel baking pans that can be adapted for Detroit-style pizza.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best size pan for Detroit style pizza?

The most common size for a Detroit-style pizza pan is 10×14 inches. This size typically yields a pizza large enough to serve 4-6 people. Smaller square pans, like 8×8 or 9×9 inches, are also popular for individual servings.

Do I need to season my Detroit style pizza pan?

If your pan is unseasoned, you absolutely need to season it. Seasoning creates a natural non-stick surface that prevents the pizza from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Pre-seasoned pans are ready to use out of the box, but may benefit from additional seasoning over time.

Can I use a regular baking sheet for Detroit style pizza?

While you *can* technically use a regular baking sheet, it’s not ideal. Baking sheets are typically too thin and don’t provide the depth necessary for the thick crust and signature cheese walls of Detroit-style pizza.

How do I clean my Detroit style pizza pan?

For seasoned steel pans, avoid harsh detergents and abrasive scrubbers. Use warm water and a mild soap if necessary. Dry the pan thoroughly after washing and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rusting.

What kind of oil is best for seasoning my pizza pan?

Oils with high smoke points, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil, are best for seasoning. Avoid using butter or olive oil, as they can leave a sticky residue.

Summary

Choosing the right Detroit-style pizza pan is essential for achieving that authentic, craveable crust and crispy cheese edges. Opt for a steel or aluminized steel pan with sufficient thickness, and choose a size that suits your needs. Whether you select a pre-seasoned or unseasoned pan, proper care and maintenance will ensure years of delicious Detroit-style pizza enjoyment.