Can I Use Metal Pans in My Microwave Convection Oven? Know the Fact

You can use any metal pan in a convection microwave oven that operates only in convection mode. Stainless steel, aluminum, or any other metal pan will work just fine in a convection oven.

However, never put a metal pan in microwave mode as this could lead to overheating and create fire hazards. Besides, metal pans will reflect microwave radiation which will result in uneven heat distribution and poor cooking results.

Can You Put a Metal Pan in a Convection Microwave?

A convection microwave oven is a hybrid oven that you will find on the market. You can use it in convection mode, microwave mode, or both at the same time.

If you are using the convection mode only, then you can put the metal pan in the microwave. However, if you are using the microwave mode or convection-microwave mode then you should not put metal pans in the oven.

This is because metals prevent microwave radiation. As a result, food stays uncooked in places and you do not get the best results. 

Besides, microwaves being sensitive to metal, it is not recommended to use metal. Therefore, using a metal pan in a microwave to heat food will result in extremely hot cooking equipment. You should allow it to cool down for a little. Otherwise, if the metal comes into contact with flammable objects, things might take a dangerous turn.

Although, some microwave ovens come with a plastic tray meant to use with metallic pots. You can also put on a non-conductive surface such as a silicone mat or rubber bands on the metal pan to reduce conduction.

What Pans to Use in Microwave Convection?

Normally, glass and ceramic are ideal materials for cookware set to be put into a microwave convection oven. Cookware such as baking sheets, casseroles, and roasting pans are crafted from glass or ceramic materials. Therefore, you can put these kinds of pans into the microwave convection oven.

However, try your best to avoid metal or dark-colored cookware. This is because these materials reflect microwave radiation into the cavity of the oven. As a result, your cookware will sustain damage. As for the lids, glass lids offer more precise temperature control as compared to metal lids.

If you want to bake your food item in a convection microwave oven, then a shallow and rimless pan is more suitable. A typical baking dish with a high edge and rim will not work well in this case as it blocks the flow of hot air around the item.

In the case of a convection oven, baking pans with lower edges are best suited. On another note, you will see many hybrid ovens with vents and air inlets suited for flat-bottomed cookware. 

Can I Use an Aluminum Pan in My Convection Microwave?

For hybrid ovens such as a convection microwave oven, you can use aluminum pans when the oven is in convection mode only.

Convection ovens are like real ovens. Such an oven continuously distributes and circulates hot air by using a fan. As a result, the temperature in a convection oven remains constant and the food gets cooked evenly.

Aluminum pans have a low-rimmed structure which makes them ideal for the convection oven as they can circulate air more quickly and evenly. Not to mention, you can cook all sorts of food items with these aluminum pans in a convection oven.

Although, you have to stay careful about using anodized aluminum pans as they are composed of dark metal. This can quicken the brownies of your food and make the result undesirable. 

In the case of microwave radiation, using an aluminum pan is not a good idea. This will make the pan extremely hot and you could burn yourself by touching it. Also, the food will not get uniform heat so it will stay undercooked. Metal in convection is perfectly okay, but metal in the microwave is not okay at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which pans do I use for my convection microwave oven?

You have the option of using bakeware made of glass, ceramic materials, stone, or aluminum. However, keep in mind that the convection is inversely proportional to the thickness of the material. Your best option here is to choose the bottom heating element to heat your pan.

Can I put aluminum foil in a convection oven?

Yes, you can put aluminum foil in a convection oven. Wrapping the food around with aluminum foil will help retain moisture and prevent excess browning on top of the dish. However, make sure to use heavy-duty aluminum foil so that it can withstand the heat.

Is there any health risk involved with cooking in aluminum pans?

Aluminum is reactive to acidic foods. Therefore, you should cook tomatoes and other acidic foods with a different type of cookware. Using aluminum pans in high heat is not permissible either as according to researchers, such cookware is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. 

Conclusion

A convection microwave is a versatile oven that allows you to bake, roast, and crisp food while reheating. If you own a convection microwave oven, be sure to check the instruction manuals of both the oven and the cookware first. Always maintain caution when handling metal cookware and use a silicon mat if necessary.