Aluminized steel vs. stainless steel bakeware, which one do you prefer? Over the years, professional cooks have preferred stainless steel bakeware for its durability and sanitary properties. But now, commercial kitchens are using aluminized steel bakeware. The reasons are its heat conduction and corrosion resistance, among other properties.
So, for us home cooks, it’s confusing to have both sides. Which is better for us? To know the answer, you must understand the pros and cons of both bakewares.
This article details both bakeware’s features, working system, advantages, and disadvantages. So read below to know more and then make your decision.
What is Aluminized Steel?
Can you guess what is mixed with steel to make aluminized steel? If you answered, “aluminum,” you are correct!
The most common method of producing aluminized steel is dipping. Typically, they clean the steel and then dip it in molten aluminum.
It may also contain a small percentage of silicon. After dipping, the aluminized steel-plated bakeware is removed from the molten aluminum. Then they air dry the steel.
Aluminized steel has three layers: the steel core, the aluminized exterior, and the silicon surface. The outer surface protects the bakeware from corrosion.
What are the Advantage and Disadvantages of Aluminum Steel?
Aluminum is a good material for bakeware. But along with all advantages, it also has some disadvantages. Let’s see.
Advantages of Aluminized Steel:
- Versatile and practical to use
- Oxidizes very slowly
- Easy to maintain
- Low cost
Disadvantages of Aluminized Steel:
- Easily deformed
- Browns food easily
- Not compatible with induction cooker
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel comes to earth on its excellent resistance to iron. There are different grades of stainless steel. Typically, this steel contains about 15% chromium in the case of bakeware. They also contain nickel and some other metals.
What are the Advantage and Disadvantages of Stainless Steel?
We generally use bakeware made of steel in our daily life. It offers mostly satisfactory features, but it can also create some problems while using it. So let’s check if it has the qualities you are looking for.
Advantages of Stainless Steel:
- Durable and resistant
- Does not rust or deform
- Resistant to corrosion
- Sanitary
Disadvantages of Aluminized Steel:
- Bad conductor of heat
- Food sticks easily
- heavy
Now, let’s compare the features of these aluminized and stainless steel bakeware.
Recommended Reading:
a. Top Ceramic Sheets for Baking
b. How to Bake Using Foil Baking Cup Liners
Aluminized Steel vs. Stainless Steel Bakeware: The Vital Differences
So what is the difference between aluminized and stainless steel? Let’s check the comparison below to know what essential features these two bakewares have and what features they don’t.
1. Easy to Use
This standard and its derivatives may depend on the materials used in its manufacture. By derivatives, we mean the comfort of use, weight, ease of washing, etc.
Aluminized steel:
Aluminized steel is lighter than stainless steel. And it allows people with less energy to handle utensils better than stainless steel.
But aluminized steel is much more convenient than stainless steel in cleaning. In this case, cleaning is much easier, and the body of the outer pan is not scratched much. However, putting aluminized steel in the dishwasher is inconvenient because the non-stick can be damaged.
Stainless Steel:
Stainless steel weighs more and is, therefore, less manageable for the kitchen. If it is steel without non-stick, it is easy to clean and can be put in the dishwasher without problems. If you have a non-stick one, it is more delicate to clean. They are more prone to scratches and fingerprints.
Stainless steel is much more challenging and more resistant than aluminized steel. So it is not easily scratched or dented.
2. Result When Cooking
There are no good or bad results. They are different only because the conductivities of the materials are different. Depending on what we cook, one ingredient or the other will be better to get the best result.
Aluminized steel:
Aluminized steel heats up more quickly. This means less energy is required to bring it to the correct temperature. At the same time, it cools down more quickly when the fire is turned off. It is easy to control.
Stainless steel:
Stainless steel takes lengthier to heat up and longer to cool down. Food sticks more quickly if you don’t have a non-stick. And to avoid this, you need a particular skill in the kitchen.
3. Durability
Aluminized steel bakeware is durable, long-lasting, and a superior heat conductor that cooks food evenly. Under normal conditions, aluminized steel does not rust, bend or deform.
Stainless steel bakeware is sturdy, non-porous, and sanitary. Stainless steel is a highly stable metal.
4. Availability
Stainless steel bakeware is easier to find in most kitchen and department stores. But aluminized steel is a luxury item you can only find in a few specialty stores and product lines.
5. The Purchase Price or Investment
Price plays a vital role in product quality. A good quality pan or cookware will last much longer than a cheap one. You also need to consider the regularity of use. If the frequency is high, we recommend investing in containers, and the results will always be good.
Aluminized steel bakeware, which is thin, tends to thin out with use. They are very cheap, but will not last long.
Stainless steel is a very resistant material. But they are expensive and usually do not have a non-stick coating.
Final words
Stainless steel and aluminized steel are two types of steel that can withstand heat and corrosion. However, aluminized steel bakeware is a cost-effective option. It often keeps its appearance better than stainless steel. However, stainless steel has a universal appeal among seasoned chefs. So, the choice ultimately depends on your preference.
