9 best paella pan sizes

Paella pans come in various sizes to accommodate different serving portions and cooking needs. These pans are essential for preparing paella, a traditional Spanish dish known for its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation. Here are common paella pan sizes and their characteristics:

  1. 8 to 10 Inches (20 to 25 cm):

    • Suitable for serving 1 to 2 people.
    • Ideal for small, intimate gatherings or cooking for oneself.
    • Compact and easy to store.
  2. 12 to 15 Inches (30 to 38 cm):

    • Designed for serving 3 to 6 people.
    • These are versatile sizes suitable for most home cooking needs.
    • Commonly used for family dinners and small gatherings.
  3. 16 to 18 Inches (40 to 46 cm):

    • Suitable for serving 6 to 10 people.
    • Ideal for larger gatherings, parties, or when cooking for a crowd.
    • These larger pans require a larger cooking surface or special burners to evenly distribute heat.
  4. 20 Inches and Larger (50 cm and above):

    • Designed for serving 10 or more people.
    • Used in commercial settings, catering events, or large-scale gatherings.
    • These pans are quite large and may require specialized equipment for cooking.

The choice of paella pan size depends on your intended use and the number of people you plan to serve. Keep in mind that a larger pan allows for a thinner layer of rice, which is traditional for paella, while a smaller pan results in a thicker layer. Additionally, the size of your stovetop or outdoor cooking source can influence your choice of pan size, as larger pans may require more heat distribution.

When selecting a paella pan, consider the number of servings you need, the available cooking equipment, and your personal preferences for the thickness of the rice layer.Paella pans are typically made of materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, or enamel-coated steel, with carbon steel being a popular choice due to its ability to develop a natural nonstick surface over time and its excellent heat conduction properties.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best paella pan sizes on the market
  

Vaello Campos Vaello La Valenciana Enameled Steel Valley Panel Paella Pan, 70 cm, Size:70cm, Black

Vaello Campos

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Vaello la valenciana enameled steel valley panel paella pan is made of enameled steel. The enameled steel Valencian paella pan is the one traditionally used to make Valencian paella. Easy to clean and maintain. Pan with 2 handles. Ergonomically designed for maximum cooking comfort. Passion in cooking is as important as it is in life. A timeless feeling that keeps the world going round. Pan measures 70 cm in daimeter.

  • Made of enameled steel
  • Used traditionally to make the valencian paella
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Ergonomically designed for maximum cooking comfort
  • Pan measures 70 cm in daimeter

CONCORD Premium Stainless Steel Paella Pan with Heavy Duty Triply Bottom (18" (46 CM))

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Available in 3 sizes: 16", 18", and 20" variants

  • Concord's Premium Stainless Steel Paella Pans are made with a smooth mirror polished top and bottom.
  • Premium Stainless Steel gives you the highest corrosion resistance compared to cheaper carbon steel and enameled steel alternatives.
  • Triply bottom gives you even heating and works on all stove tops: Gas, Electric, and Induction. EXTRA THICK BOTTOM INSURES PAN WILL NOT WARP UNDER ANY HEAT
  • Large rounded stainless steel handles makes carrying easy and convenient
  • Available in 3 sizes: 16", 18", and 20" variants

User questions & answers

Question: What is the diameter of the flat bottom of the 20" variant
Answer: I don't think it would.
Question: Can this pan be used over a charcoal grill or open fire
Answer: Yes. There's a separate cover for the small rectangular foot rest part at the very bottom.
Question: is this non-stick? Can you use it on the stove and in the oven
Answer: Because it’s a great color, no I’m not sure, didn’t know it was
Question: is this non-stick? Can you use it on the stove and in the oven
Answer: It is a very soft stretchy fabric that can be machine washed.

Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel Paella Pan, 17 3/4"

Bourgeat

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price
  • VARIETY OF USES: Brings top-notch heat distribution and temperature control, preserving the vitamins and nutrients in your foods, perfect for your many paella creations, able to serve 6-8 servings
  • NATURAL NON-STICK MATERIAL: Made of of black carbon steel, a natural mineral material promoting healthy cooking making this pan free of any harsh chemicals or coatings, PTFE and PFOA free , and once seasoned, becomes exceedingly non-stick
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Has two handles welded to pan's body for extra strength and security, is free of rivets, preventing bacteria from being trapped certifying sanitary use, and its curved sides and a wide and shallow cooking surface designed to saute meats and vegetables prior to adding rice
  • HIGHLY COMPATIBLE & VERSATILE: This steel pan can also withstand and maintain exceedingly high temperatures, as it can be used on all hob and stove types, even induction
  • MADE IN FRANCE: Ensures high standards for durability, performance, and hygiene for both commercial and residential use

User questions & answers

Question: Item weight one pound
Answer: Hello, the instructions are at the back of the package insert or on the product link on amazon. You can scroll down to view them. Thanks
Question: Can this make of paella pan be used on a camp fire
Answer: Yes! It fits beautifully and comes off to wash very easily. I have two oversized recliners but one is more leather like material and I did have to tie the strings together on the top piece to keep it from sliding but other than that I love these covers!
Question: Is this pan good for induction
Answer: It is 4 pieces. Holds up well to pets!
Question: Does this come with a lid
Answer: Yes, but you're still going to have to clean chair stuff off the floor.

Product features

MATFER BOURGEAT BLACK STEEL COOKWARE- Made in France, Trusted by Professionals

Since 1814, Matfer Bourgeat has been supplying professional chefs with the highest quality, French-made cookware and kitchen tools. Once seasoned, Matfer's Black Steel Fry Pans, Crepe Pans, and Paella pans are a naturally nonstick option perfect for searing steaks, folding omelettes, flipping crepes, and more.

Lighter than Cast Iron

Made of a single piece of high-carbon pressed steel, our Black Steel Cookware offer the natural nonstick properties of cast iron with more versatility and less weight.

From the Stovetop to the Oven

Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel is compatible with all HOB types, including induction, and is oven safe at any temperature.

Mabel Home 25.5-inch / 65cm Enamaled Steel Paella Pan, 25.5 inch (65cm)

MABEL HOME

Based on 82 reviews Check latest price

Product description

25.5-Inch Enameled Steel Paella Pan (65-cm). Serves 10 to 14 people.

This pan is good for beginning paella cooks and is one of our most popular sizes.

Fits well over most large standard burners.

Enameled pans offer convenience and value, and they make delicious paella.

Made of steel, they're coated with a black and white speckled enamel, so rusting will not be an issue.

The enamel also makes them a bit easier to clean, even if you've managed to get a good layer of socarrat (caramelized rice on the bottom of the pan).

 

 

Product Description

  • 25.5-Inch Enameled Steel Paella Pan (65-cm). Serves 10 to 14 people
  • This pan is good for beginning paella cooks and is one of our most popular sizes
  • Fits well over most large standard burners.
  • Enameled pans offer convenience and value, and they make delicious paella.
  • Made of steel, they're coated with a black and white speckled enamel, so rusting will not be an issue.

User questions & answers

Question: Can I used in glass top stove
Answer: This item is not non-stick. It does not have any coating and is solid stainless steel with a triply clad bottom. It is oven safe, but just make sure to measure your oven to make sure that it will fit. You will need to season it for best results.
Question: does anyone use it to fry meat on stovetop? I need this to fry big fish
Answer: This is NOT a non-stick cookware, thus there will be no nonstick coating on this cookware. It is full stainless steel, which means heat control and seasoning is crucial.
Question: Can it be used on an induction cooktop
Answer: Hello , our slipcovers feature a thick elastic hem that wraps at the bottom of the sofa furniture to ensure they don’t fall off.
Question: Are measurements for just the pan or handle to handle
Answer: hello , yes , will fit well, The recliner size measures Width:31", High:41'', Depth:23'' and Fits sofas with seats widths 23" to 35".
Question: what is the diameter of the cooking surface
Answer: No. It comes in four pieces. Back, seat, two arm rests.

Mauviel M'Elite Paella pan, 15.7, Stainless

Based on 43 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The ideal balance between tradition and innovation. The perfect pan for cooking and serving. Multi-ply 18/10 Stainless steel with non-drip edge. Polished and hammered exterior. Stainless steel handles are 'stay cool' and fixed with Stainless steel rivets.

  • Made in France since 1830. Mauviel is the leading cookware manufacturer for professional and household chefs throughout the world
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE 2.6 mm thickness; 5 Ply 18/10 SS Construction. M 'Elite is polished and hammered on the outside. Superior heat conductivity and controlled even heat distribution
  • Handles stay cool. Cast Stainless steel handles stay cool during use. Pouring rims on every shape. Dishwasher safe
  • Can be used on all cooking surfaces. Gas, electric, induction, halogen stovetops, and in the oven. Oven safe including under the broiler
  • Guarantee. All Mauviel products are guaranteed for life against any manufacturing defects for household use

User questions & answers

Question: is 15.7" the top diameter or the bottom of the pan diameter
Answer: It should be. It is made from heavy carbon steel. The one I bought was 17 1/2 in. in diameter. I don't think it would fit well on most small induction "burners". I have a real commercial range in my home and it is a great pan. Season it well and you will love it. I bought it for paella. But I can fry several eggs in it an it doesn't stick.
Question: Is a lid available for this pan
Answer: It does not come with a lid.
Question: How should this paella pan be cared for? Anything necessary before using the first time? How about to maintain it
Answer: The inside cooking surface diameter for the 20” variant is 17.25”
Question: Will both pans work on a standard gas burner with the heat centered in the middle of the pan
Answer: We use it on our propane grill. No issues.

Product features

A High Performance Modern Pan for an Ancient Dish

Paella, the Spanish dish made with succulent seafood, savory meats and saffron-scented rice, originates in the mid-19th century and is traditionally served straight from the pan. Handmade in France, the M'Elite Paella Pan features a timeless, hammered-steel exterior. Perfect for paella, bouillabaisse and other family-sized meals. The stainless steel five-ply construction ensures perfect heat conductivity to produce and exceptional infusion of flavors, a hallmark of world class paella.

High Performance

Mauviel offers cookware manufactured in copper, stainless steel and aluminum that is unsurpassed in quality and design - praised by professional chefs and household cooks.

Made in France

The M'Elite Collection can be used on gas, electric, halogen, and induction stove tops. Oven safe including under the broiler.

Superior Durability

M'Elite Stainless Steel Multi-Ply is 2.6mm thick and has a lifetime household use warranty. It is the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.

Garcima 8-Inch Carbon Steel Paella Pan, 20 cm, 20cm, Silver

Garcima

Based on 50 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This pan is the perfect size for serving tapas or a petite paella for one. Its 2 handles are made of steel and painted red. The pan is made of carbon steel (aka polished steel, or acero pulido), which is ideal for paella since it conducts heat quickly. The pan is thin but quite rigid and durable, with a dimpled bottom. Carbon steel is the traditional material for paella, and some paella devotees feel that it enhances flavor. As with any raw steel pan, it requires some care: you must dry the pan right after washing it and then rub the inside with a little vegetable oil to prevent rusting. If the pan does rust, a few passes with steel wool takes it right off.

  • Authentic paella pan. Made in Spain. Safe for stovetop, oven, or grill.
  • Carbon steel is durable and conducts heat well. Requires a bit of maintenance after washing.
  • Top diameter 8" -bottom diameter-6".
  • Ideal size for serving tapas.
  • The pan comes with an informative pamphlet that contains two recipes, tips for perfect paella, and care instructions.

User questions & answers

Question: can this be used on induction cooktop (will magnet stick to the bottom
Answer: The dimension of the OUTSIDE TOP OF lip is 14 1/4" - to the outside of the handles is 18"
Question: Can I put this on a grill
Answer: Hi Andrew, The diameter of the cooking surface is 13".
Question: Can this be used on an electric stove
Answer: No, this item's weight is estimated to be nearly 10 pounds based on the 14" pan weighing in at an actual 8 pounds as reported by Cooks Illustrated TV show.
Question: Can someone tell me the measurement handle to handle at it's longest point? I want to verify if this will fit inside a mini max sized big green egg
Answer: The base of the pan is thick and dissipates heat well. I would think that it would work. Certainly worth trying. Paella while camping? Priceless!!

Garcima 14-Inch Stainless Steel Paella Pan, 36cm

Garcima

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Serves 2 to 4 people. This pan is good for beginning paella cooks and is one of our most popular sizes. Fits well over most large standard burners. Made from high-quality 18/8 stainless steel, the pan is sturdy and rigid, with the classic dimpled bottom and gold handles. Be aware that the pan is made of a thin, single ply metal, so it is not meant for high heat sauteing but rather for cooking rice dishes; it will overheat if left over a direct flame without food in it. It's maintenance free, with no seasoning or special cleaning required. And it makes wonderful paella. It's a great choice for people who like to keep their pans on display. Hang one of these magnificent shining pans from your pot rack and it will be the centerpiece of your kitchen. It also makes a singular and memorable gift.

  • Authentic paella pan. Made in Spain.
  • Stainless steel pan with gold handles that is attractive and perfect for gifts.
  • Durable pan safe for stovetop, oven or grill.
  • Ideal for serving 2 to 4 people.
  • The pan comes with an informative pamphlet that contains two recipes, tips for perfect paella, and care instructions.

User questions & answers

Question: How big is this pan? How many cups of liquid does it hole
Answer: I used juts to make paella , but I always fry the vegetables and seafood or fish before at the pan , then I add the rice and broth . so it should be ok to fry meet or fish ! It is a great product ! Hardly recommended !
Question: What's the bottom dimension
Answer: Hi, yes you can use. Thank you.

Garcima 13-inch Stainless Steel Paella Pan, 32cm

La Paella

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Serves 2 to 3 people. This 13-inch (32 cm) paella pan fits nicely over one burner and in an oven . This pan is made from a single ply of high-quality 18/10 stainless steel with gold handles, the pan is sturdy and rigid, with the classic sloped sides and dimpled bottom. It is maintenance free, with no seasoning or special cleaning required. And it makes wonderful paella. It's a great choice for people who like to keep their pans on display. Hang one of these magnificent shining pans from your pot rack and it will be the centerpiece of your kitchen. It also makes a singular and memorable gift. PAN DIMENSIONS: Top diameter is 12 3/4 inches (including handles it is 17 inches). Bottom diameter is 10 1/2 inches. Depth is 2 inches. Includes an informative pamphlet, which contains two recipes, tips for perfect paella, and care instructions.

  • Authentic paella pan. Made in Spain.
  • Stainless steel is attractive and perfect for gifts.
  • Durable pan heats up very quickly and is safe for grills, ovens, and fire pits.
  • Ideal for serving 2 to 3 people.
  • .Includes informative pamphlet with two recipes, tips for perfect paella, and care instructions

User questions & answers

Question: Is the bottom of the pan flat? It must sit flat on an induction stovetop without requiring extra attention. Thanks
Answer: Hi, sure you can use glass top stove. Thank you.

Product features

Authentic Paella Pan Manufactured in Valencia, Spain

This pan is made from high-quality 18/8 stainless steel with the classic dimpled bottom. It's maintenance free, with no seasoning or special cleaning required. And it makes wonderful paella. It's a great choice for people who like to keep their pans on display. Hang one of these magnificent shining pans from your pot rack and it will be the centerpiece of your kitchen.

How many people can this pan serve?

This pan serves 2 to 3 - preferably just two but if all parties restrain themselves just a bit, you can eke out that extra serving. Fits easily over one burner.

Garcima 17-Inch Carbon Steel Paella Pan, 42cm

La Paella

Based on 368 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This 17 inch pan serves 5 to 7 people. This size might just barely fit over one large stovetop burner or it would straddle two burners that are closely spaced. The pan is made of carbon steel (aka polished steel, or acero pulido), which is ideal for paella since it conducts heat quickly and evenly. The handles are made of steel and painted red. The pan is thin but quite rigid and durable, with a hammered dimpled bottom. Carbon steel is the traditional material for paella, and some paella devotees feel that it enhances flavor.

  • Informative pamphlet with each pan, which contains two recipes.
  • Can be used on a gas or charcoal grill, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
  • Carbon steel is durable and conducts heat well.
  • Dry the pan right after washing it and then rub the inside with a little vegetable oil to prevent rusting.
  • If the pan does rust, a few passes with steel wool takes it right off.

User questions & answers

Question: is the handle made of carbon or metal? can I put the pan in the oven
Answer: I just measured 16” across top rim and 14” across the pan’s bottom.
Question: Where is it made
Answer: It doesn’t come with one and I think it would be hard to fit - I would just use one of those flexible sized lids it you really want one. I never use one with it
Question: Is the paella pan induction stove compatible
Answer: Stainless steel, new wash in hot soapy water, rinse and dry. IMHO socarrat, the crusty, crispy Cara melized bottom of absolutely essential to fabulous Paella. I cook my Paella on a charcoal fired Big Green Egg, adds smokiness and the socarrat I’m looking for. Soak pan overnight, cleans up well. I use Barkeepers Friend, keeps pan looking new. Paella is our celebratory feast for many occasions, made it many times, pan looks practically new, even with live fire cooking.
Question: Por que no envian a Puerto Rico
Answer: With the size of the pan and the size of our burners, I actually find it works best straddling two burners. The heat is pretty well distributed while frying, but while simmering to cook the rice, I end up rotating the pan every 5-10 minutes to keep the heat even. If you have a single large burner, it would probably work o.k.

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