Loaf Pan Uses

Loaf pans got their start as a rectangular shaped pan that was most commonly used for baking bread. They are deep walled pans, about 3 or 4 inches deep and usually sized from 5 to 14 inches in length and around 3 to 5 inches in width. They are constructed out of a variety of materials, including steel, glass, pottery, aluminum, and stoneware, which provide for different baking times and consistencies.

When baking breads, loaf pans are designed to produce a crisp crust and textured loaf of bread. Some pans, depending on what they are made of, are better at this than others so be sure to read the manufacturer's directions or test the loaf pan to make sure it will be suitable.

For making a meatloaf, standard loaf pans are equally effective for producing an appetizing entree. Larger loaf pans, called Lo-Fat pans are also used for making meat loaf and can help create a healthier meal than regular loaf pans. These pans are actually a set of two pans, one smaller than the other, that fit inside each other. The upper pan is designed with holes on the bottom that allow fat and grease to drip below into the larger pan. By allowing the meat to not sit in the grease while cooking, a meat loaf with less fat content is created.

Mini Loaf Pans

Mini loaf pans are also produced that are ideal for making gifts from your loaves of bread or for dessert loaves. These allow for a smaller quantity to be baked while also decreasing the baking time for most dishes.

Mini loaf pans are typically around 6 inches in length and about 3 inches wide. The small pans are often used for making sweet or traditional breads or for making fresh portions that can be served to just a couple of people or for individual servings.

Here's a simple and delicious meatloaf recipe that will work well in most loaf pans;

Ingredients

2 pounds lean ground beef

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup fine dry bread crumbs

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 can condensed French onion soup, undiluted

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

Ketchup or barbecue sauce, optional

Baking

Combine all ingredients in a bowl; pack into a meatloaf pan or large (9 x 5 x 3 inches) loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Spread top with a little barbecue sauce or ketchup about 5 or 10 minutes before done. Let rest a few minutes before slicing. Serves six to eight people comfortably.

More information on loaf pans