When planning meals for gatherings, meal prepping, or catering events, one of the most common questions is: "How many servings can a half aluminum foil pan hold?" The answer depends on the pan's size, depth, and type of food you’re serving. Below, we break down standard half-size aluminum foil pan capacities to help you estimate portions accurately.
Standard Half-Size Aluminum Foil Pan Dimensions Servings
Half aluminum foil pans (also called "half steam table pans") are widely used in commercial kitchens, catering, and home meal prep. Here’s a general guide:
1. Half Size Aluminum Foil Pan Measurements
- Common Dimensions:
- 13" x 10.5" x 2.5" (Half-Size, Shallow)
- 13" x 10.5" x 4" (Half-Size, Deep)
- 12.7" x 10.3" x 2.5" (Approximate, varies by brand)
- Capacity:
- Shallow (2.5” deep): ~1.5 to 2 quarts (~6-8 cups)
- Deep (4” deep): ~3 quarts (~12 cups)
Estimated Servings Per Half Aluminum Foil Pan
The number of servings varies based on food type and portion size. Below are common estimates:
Main Dishes (Meats, Casseroles, Lasagna, etc.)
| Food Type | Portion Size | Shallow Pan (6-8 cups) | Deep Pan (12 cups) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lasagna/Pasta Bake | 6 oz (1 cup) | 6-8 servings | 10-12 servings |
| Baked Chicken/Meat | 5-6 oz | 5-7 servings | 8-10 servings |
| Pulled Pork/Shredded Meat | 4 oz | 8-10 servings | 15-18 servings |
Side Dishes (Vegetables, Grains, Potatoes)
| Food Type | Portion Size | Shallow Pan (6-8 cups) | Deep Pan (12 cups) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | ½ cup (4 oz) | 12-16 servings | 24 servings |
| Roasted Veggies | ½ cup (4 oz) | 12-16 servings | 24 servings |
| Mac Cheese | ¾ cup (6 oz) | 8-10 servings | 15-18 servings |
Desserts (Cakes, Brownies, Cobblers)
| Food Type | Portion Size | Shallow Pan (6-8 cups) | Deep Pan (12 cups) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheet Cake | 2” x 2” slice | 12-15 slices | 20-24 slices |
| Brownies | 2” x 2” square | 16-20 squares | 24-30 squares |
| Fruit Cobbler | ½ cup (4 oz) | 12-16 servings | 24 servings |
Factors That Affect Serving Count
- Food Density – Thick casseroles or lasagna take up more space than lighter foods.
- Serving Style – Buffet-style servings are typically smaller than plated meals.
- Pan Depth – Deeper pans hold more food (ideal for liquids and saucy dishes).
Choosing the Right Aluminum Foil Pan
- Need a shallow pan? Best for cakes, roasts, and layered dishes.
- Need a deep pan? Ideal for soups, stews, saucy pasta, and large-batch meals.
- Disposable or reusable? Heavy-duty aluminum foil pans can often be reused if cleaned properly.
Final Answer: How Many Servings Per Half Pan?
✔ Shallow (2.5" depth): 6-16 servings (depending on portion size)
✔ Deep (4" depth): 12-24+ servings (best for high-volume meals)
To maximize efficiency, always measure your ingredients and consider portion control when planning large meals.
