Picture this; your guest or family member is running late for dinner, and you want to keep their food warm.
So, what to do?
Your options boil down to two: the oven or the microwave. But what type of plate can you put in the oven?
Your plates come in a variety of materials, each with its benefits and drawbacks. You probably know that you can only put plates labeled “oven-safe” in the oven, but what does that mean?
What are the different types of oven-safe plates? What materials are they made out of, and what are their benefits and drawbacks?
Let’s take a look.
Oven-safe plates
Most oven-safe plates are clearly labeled at the bottom as “oven-safe.” These plates are typically made of glass, ceramic, stoneware, or cast iron.
Ceramic and stoneware plates are both fired at a high temperature, making them durable and chip-resistant.
Glass oven-safe plates are great for reheating food because they won’t absorb the flavors or smells of previous meals.
Pyrex Glass Plates
Glass is one of the most common materials for oven-safe plates.
Pyrex is a glass made to withstand high temperatures without breaking or shattering.
It is also non-porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb the flavors or smells of previous meals, making it great for reheating food.
Apart from pyrex, Corelle glass plates are also a good option. These glass types can withstand temperatures of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit without breaking.
Ceramic Plates
Ceramic oven-safe plates are made of clay fired at a high temperature, making them durable and chip resistant. They come in various shapes and sizes, perfect for any dish you might be reheating.
Ceramic plates are also non-porous, meaning they don’t absorb the flavors or smells of previous meals.
One downside to ceramic plates is that they can be quite heavy. If you’re reheating a large dish, moving the plate from the oven to the table might be challenging.
Nevertheless, these plates are a great option for those looking for an oven-safe plate that is also aesthetically pleasing.
Stoneware Plates
Stoneware is another popular safe-oven material thanks to its durability and chip resistance. It is made of clay fired at a high temperature, making it sturdy enough to withstand most oven temperatures.
Like ceramic plates, stoneware comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, perfect for any dish you might be reheating.
When using stoneware in the oven, it is important to ensure that your food doesn’t come into direct contact with the plate.
If you’re reheating a dish with a lot of liquid, it might seep through the cracks and create a mess in your oven.
Cast Iron Plates
Cast iron plates are some of the most durable oven-safe plates available.
They are made of cast iron, known for its heat retention properties. This means that your food will stay warm for longer after being taken out of the oven.
Cast iron plates may not be popular as some of the other oven-safe materials, but they are a great option for those looking for an extremely durable and heat-retaining plate.
Non Oven-Safe Plates
A number of your plates are not oven-safe. These plates are typically made of plastic, aluminum, or copper.
Plastic Plates
One of the most popular materials for non-oven-safe plates is plastic.
Plastic is cheap, lightweight, and easy to clean. It also doesn’t absorb the flavors or smells of previous meals, making it a great option for leftovers.
The downside to plastic plates is that they can be easily damaged. If you’re not careful, a sharp edge on your plate can easily cut through the plastic.
They are also not heat resistant, meaning they can warp or melt if placed in the oven.
Aluminum Plates
Aluminum may be lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, but it is not oven-safe. This is because aluminum can warp or melt when exposed to high temperatures.
Copper Plates
Copper stands out as the only metal plate that is not oven-safe. This is because copper can react with food and create toxic compounds.
It also corrodes over time, making it a poor choice for an oven-safe plate.
Not all plates are labeled
If you have a plate that is not labeled oven-safe, it does not mean that you can’t put it in the oven. It just means that you should take caution when doing so.
Some materials, like plastic and aluminum, can melt or warp at high temperatures.
If you’re going to use a non-oven safe plate in the oven, make sure that it is heat resistant and will not melt or warp at high temperatures.
You can test this by heating the oven to a moderate temperature and placing the plate in there for a few minutes. If it begins to melt or warp, it is not safe to use in the oven.
FAQs
What is thermal shock?
Thermal shock is when a material is exposed to extreme changes in temperature. This can cause the material to warp, crack or even shatter.
Can I put my plastic plate in the oven?
While some plastic plates are oven-safe, you cannot heat them to high temperatures. This is because they can warp or melt if exposed to too much heat.
Why are copper plates not oven-safe?
Copper reacts with food and can create toxic compounds. It also corrodes over time, making it a poor choice for an oven-safe plate.
What is the safest temperature to put an oven-safe plate in the oven?
The safe temperature to put an oven-safe plate in the oven will vary depending on the material. However, most materials can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit without any problems.
Final Thoughts
When reheating food, it’s important to use an oven-safe plate. This will ensure that your food is cooked evenly and prevents any accidents in the kitchen.
If you’re in a hurry and need to keep food warm, put it in the oven on an oven-safe plate. Consider using a cast iron or stoneware plate for a more even cook if you have time to spare.
Whatever your reheating needs, there is an oven-safe plate that will fit your needs.
Be sure to consider all of your options before purchasing and enjoy your perfectly cooked food. When in doubt, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for direction.