Aluminum Steam Table Pan Size Guide: Full, Half, Shallow, Medium & Deep

Disposable aluminum steam table pans fit standard chafing dishes and steam tables, so caterers, restaurants, synagogues and home hosts use them everywhere. Here's how to choose the right size, depth and lid.

Full size vs. half size

• Half size pans are often called "9x13" pans. They fit two side by side in a standard chafing frame, so you can serve two dishes from one burner. They're the most popular size for home parties and drop-off catering.
• Full size pans fill an entire standard steam table opening. They're best for big batches of entrées, roasts and sides for large events.

Shallow, medium or deep?

• Shallow is for roasting, baking, and foods served in a single layer, like chicken cutlets, fish and roasted vegetables. Options: HS312 half size shallow (100/case) and FS512 full size shallow (50/case).
• Medium is the all-purpose depth for rice, pasta, kugel and side dishes. Options: HS313 half size medium (100/case) and FS513 full size medium (50/case).
• Deep is for saucy dishes, stews, meatballs, chili and anything you need to hold hot for a long time. Options: HS314 half size deep premium (100/case), HS114CL half size deep, Clever Series (100/case) and FS514 full size deep (50/case).

Premium vs. Clever Series

All of our Smart USA pans are made in the USA. Smart USA sells a Premium line and a more economical Clever Series. If you aren't sure which one fits your menu and budget, call us and we'll help you choose.

Lids that fit

• Foil lids are for oven use and keep food hot: FL300 half size foil lids and FL500 full size foil lids.
• Clear plastic dome lids let guests see the food, but they are not oven-safe: PL301 half size dome lids and PL501 full size dome lids.
• For easy cleanup in permanent pans, use steam table pan liners.

Quick tips

• Support full, heavy pans from underneath when you carry them.
• Match lid size to pan size. Half size lids do not fit full size pans.
• Stock up before holidays. Half size deep pans are the first to sell out.

Local business? We offer free delivery on orders of $250 or more to Oceanside, the Five Towns, Long Beach, Rockville Centre, Lynbrook, Valley Stream, Great Neck, Roslyn and nearby towns. Questions about sizing or bulk pricing? Call us at (516) 599-0001 or email info@papersuppliesplus.com.