Pan size: our tips for efficient cooking

Why is pan size such an important factor in the kitchen? Quite simply because a pan must suit both your hob or cooker and the quantity you want to prepare. Choosing the right size is key to the success of your meal. Too big or too small, you need to find the right balance when it comes to frypan size. Here’s our complete guide.

Why is the size or diameter of a pan essential in cooking?

The size of a pan directly affects heat distribution, cooking quality and energy consumption. When well chosen as part of your cookware set, it helps you prepare everything from individual recipes to family meals.

A direct impact on cooking performance

Just like the size of a stewpot or a wok, the size of a pan influences how heat is distributed during cooking. Too small and overloaded, it won’t allow ingredients to cook evenly. Too large, it disperses the heat, increases the risk of burning food and lengthens cooking time.

A size adapted to the type of dishes you cook

Every recipe calls for cookware of a specific diameter. When choosing your pan, keep in mind that a small-sized pan is perfect for frying eggs, cooking individual cuts of meat or searing fish fillets. A larger pan, on the other hand, makes it easier to prepare family meals. Picking the right size helps preserve flavours, shortens cooking time and simplifies preparation.

A key factor for saving energy and cooking with less fat

A pan that matches the size of your hob heats up faster, uses less energy and requires less cooking fat. Its raised edges also help distribute heat back towards the centre of the pan, ensuring even cooking.

Good to know: according to ADEME, using a pan that does not fit the size of your hob can waste up to 30% of energy.

What pan sizes are available on the market?

• Small pan (20 cm): ideal for frying an egg, making a pancake or cooking a single portion. It heats up quickly and is easy to store in a small kitchen.
  
  

• Medium pan (24–26 cm): the most versatile size, perfect for everyday meals. Suitable for 2 to 3 people, it sears meat, vegetables or fish with ease.
  
  

• Large pan (28–32 cm): designed for 4 to 6 people, it provides a wide surface for grilling, simmering or preparing family dishes.
  
  

• Extra-large pan (over 32 cm): perfect for paellas or generous portions, but often requires a large hob to distribute heat evenly.

How to choose the right pan size for your cooking equipment

Compatibility with induction hobs

For best results, the pan should cover the hob zone without going beyond it. This ensures even, efficient heat distribution with no energy loss and improves cooking quality on induction.

Size for traditional hobs

On gas or ceramic hobs, the diameter of the pan should also match the size of the burner to spread heat evenly. A pan that’s too large won’t heat properly, while one that’s too small will complicate cooking and waste energy.

Using a pan in the oven: which size to choose?

Always check the depth of your oven before buying a pan. As a rule, a 24–28 cm pan works well and provides cooking comfort, provided it is oven-safe and has either a detachable or metal handle.

Good to know: choosing a pan with the right diameter helps prevent uneven cooking.

FAQ: common questions about pan sizes

What size pan is best for 2 people?

A 24–26 cm pan is ideal. It allows you to cook meat, vegetables or fish for two people without wasting energy. It also suits both gas burners and most hob zones.

What is the most versatile pan size?

A 26 cm pan is considered the most versatile, as it can be used to prepare a wide variety of dishes. It is easy to handle and compatible with the majority of hob types.

Should the pan size match the hob size?

Yes, this ensures better heat distribution and reduces energy consumption. The pan should correspond to the diameter of the hob zone for optimal cooking performance.

Can the same pan be used in the oven and on the hob?

Yes, as long as the pan is heat-resistant and has a detachable or metal handle. Always check the compatibility of the coating and outer material to make sure it withstands oven use.