Lodge 15.5″ × 10.5″ Cast Iron Baking Pan — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lodge 15.5″ × 10.5″ Cast Iron Baking Pan?
The **Lodge 15.5″ × 10.5″ Cast Iron Baking Pan** (model BW15BP) is a large rectangular cast iron bakeware piece, factory-seasoned and made in the USA. It’s designed for baking, roasting, and any application where you want even heat, durability, and long-term performance.
What are its features and specifications?
• **Interior / cooking area**: 15.5″ × 10.5″ (jelly roll / baking sheet dimensions)
• **Overall dimensions**: ~ 19.06″ × 10.81″ × 1.5″ including rim and side walls
• **Weight**: ~ 7.5 lb
• **Material & finish**: Heavy gauge cast iron, naturally seasoned with vegetable oil at the foundry
• **Handles**: Dual side handles for lifting and maneuvering
• **Intended use**: Oven baking and roasting; not primarily designed for stovetop use (though some users may use it on grills or stable heat surfaces)
• **Durability**: Won’t bend, warp, or dent under high oven temperatures when used properly
• **Made in USA**: Yes, Lodge manufactures in South Pittsburg, TN
How should I use the Lodge baking pan?
• Preheat your oven so that the pan is warmed thoroughly before baking.
• Because cast iron retains heat, expect strong, even browning across the entire surface.
• Use it for baking cookies, sheet cakes, roasting vegetables, making pizza, cobblers, or any bake that benefits from solid thermal mass.
• When removing from the oven, use oven mitts — handles and the entire pan will be hot.
• Let it cool slowly if possible; avoid sudden extreme changes in temperature (thermal shock).
How do I care for and maintain it?
• Hand wash only — do not use the dishwasher.
• Use warm water and a nonmetal brush or sponge. Mild soap is acceptable if needed.
• Dry immediately and thoroughly to prevent rust.
• After drying, apply a light coating of oil to preserve the seasoning.
• Store in a dry place; if stacking with other pans, protect the cooking surface to avoid scratches.
• Over time, the seasoning will deepen and improve with repeated use.
What are the advantages and limitations?
Advantages:
• Outstanding heat retention and even baking surface
• Durable — resists warping or denting
• Large bake area (15.5 × 10.5) suitable for many recipes
• Factory-seasoned — ready to use out of the box
• Dual handles improve ease of handling
Limitations / cautions:
• It is heavy (7.5 lb) — handling full or hot is strenuous
• Because of its mass, edge or corner heating must be monitored to avoid overbaking
• Not ideal for rapid heating or stovetop use as cast iron is slower to respond
• Requires proper seasoning care to prevent rust
• Should avoid extreme thermal shock (very hot to cold)