How to Choose an Au Gratin Pan (2026 Guide)
Find the right size, material, and set count for your kitchen
By Mubboo Editorial Team · Updated Aug 7, 2026 · 5 min read
At a Glance
- Price range
- $22–$37
- Data
- 10,305+ verified reviews and 3 expert video reviews from America's Test Kitchen
- Best for
- individual au gratin dishesoven-to-table presentationentertaining
- Skip if
- You only need a large casserole dish for a crowd
Types Explained
Mini Au Gratin Dishes
Perfect for sides, appetizers, and individual desserts.
- Space-saving
- Great for portion control
- Attractive presentation
- Too small for main dishes
- May require hand washing
Best for: appetizers and sides
Example: Heartland Home Porcelain Mini Casserole Dish (mid-priced)
Standard Oval Au Gratin Pans
The classic option for individual gratins, mac and cheese, and crème brûlée.
- Versatile for many recipes
- Oven-to-table design
- Affordable sets available
- May not suit large families without multiples
- Porcelain can chip if stacked
Best for: everyday baking for couples or small families
Example: UIBFCWN Au Gratin Baking Dishes (low-priced for 4)
Large-Capacity Oval Pans
Hold 16 ounces or more, ideal for generous main-course servings.
- Holds hearty portions
- Great for traditional gratins
- Often have loop handles for safety
- Bulky to store
- More expensive per set
Best for: entertaining and family meals
Example: Home Beets Oval Au Gratin Baking Dishes (high-priced for 4, 16 oz each)
What Actually Matters
| Factor | Importance | Best brand |
|---|---|---|
Material Porcelain or ceramic for even heat and oven safety Avoid uncoated metal which can rust or impart taste. | Must-have | Any reputable kitchen brand |
Capacity At least 8 oz for an individual serving, 16 oz for main dishes Measure your oven space and storage before buying multiple large pans. | Must-have | Home Beets (16 oz) or KooK (large set) |
Dishwasher Safe Hand-washing can extend life, but dishwasher-safe saves time. | Nice-to-have | Most porcelain pans are dishwasher-safe, but confirm listing. |
Microwave Safe Only a few specialty pans like the PrepSolutions s'mores maker are microwave-safe. Most au gratin recipes require oven baking. | Marketing BS | — |
Set Size Minimum 4 for most households Buying a set of 4 or 6 is often cheaper per dish than individually. | Must-have | KooK (set of 6) |
Budget Tiers & Top Picks
What to buy at each price point — and exactly where spending more stops paying off.
Budget (Under $25)
$22–$24UIBFCWN Au Gratin Baking Dishes, Set of 4
Stop paying more: At this price, you get a durable porcelain set that handles everyday baking; no need to go cheaper for fewer dishes.
When to upgrade: Upgrade for larger capacity or more pieces if entertaining.
Mid-Range ($25–$40)
$26–$37KooK Au Gratin Baking Dishes, Set of 6
Stop paying more: Six dishes cover most dinner parties; the sweet spot for value and capacity.
When to upgrade: Move up only if you need larger individual portions (16 oz).
Premium ($37+)
$37–$40Home Beets Oval Au Gratin Baking Dishes, Set of 4 (16 oz)
Stop paying more: The 16-oz capacity and sleek design justify the price per dish for serious home cooks.
When to upgrade: Consider only if you need maximum capacity per dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying non-oven-safe pans
Some decorative dishes are only for serving; metal pans without coating can rust.
Cost of getting it wrong: Wasted money on unusable cookware or spoiled food.
Overlooking dishwasher compatibility
Hand-wash only becomes a chore, especially when cleaning multiple dishes after a dinner party.
Cost of getting it wrong: Time lost and potential damage if put in dishwasher.
Misjudging size
A 4-ounce ramekin is too small for a main-course au gratin; a 16-ounce dish may not fit your toaster oven.
Cost of getting it wrong: Frustration and possibly buying a second set.
Find Your Match
What's your typical use?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for an au gratin pan?
Porcelain or ceramic are ideal. They heat evenly, resist staining, and are oven-safe. Avoid uncoated metal pans which can rust or react with acidic foods. Look for dishwasher-safe models for easy cleanup.
Can I put an au gratin pan in the microwave?
Most porcelain au gratin pans are not microwave-safe; they can crack under rapid temperature changes. Only specialty dishes like the PrepSolutions S'mores Maker are designed for microwave use. For traditional gratins, stick to the oven.
What size au gratin pan do I need for individual servings?
An 8-ounce dish is typical for a single side serving. For a main-course au gratin, look for 14- to 16-ounce capacity. Check your recipe to ensure the pan isn't too small or too large.
Are au gratin pans dishwasher safe?
Many porcelain models are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer's instructions. Hand-washing can extend the life of the glaze, especially for pans with metallic trim. If convenience is key, prioritize dishwasher-safe labels.
How many au gratin pans do I need?
A set of four covers most families; six is better for entertaining. Consider your typical batch size and storage space. Buying a set is often cheaper per dish than purchasing individually.
What's the difference between au gratin pans and ramekins?
Au gratin pans are typically oval and shallow, designed for browning toppings under a broiler. Ramekins are deeper and round, better for custards and soufflés. Both can be used interchangeably for individual baked dishes.
How we wrote this guide
Researched across 10,305+ verified Amazon reviews, video reviews of similar cookware, and manufacturer specifications. Our pick criteria prioritized material durability, oven safety, and real owner feedback.
About this guide
Mubboo Editorial Team. Our picks are based on 10,305+ verified buyer reviews, video reviews of related cookware, and manufacturer specifications. Prices update weekly from Amazon.