Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Square Roaster 26cm
This 26cm square roaster combines the durability of stainless steel with the heat distribution benefits of aluminium through Le Creuset's 3-ply construction. The bonded aluminium core sits between two layers of premium-grade stainless steel, allowing heat to spread evenly from base to rim. With a 4.4-litre capacity, it's sized for everyday roasting whilst remaining compact enough for smaller households.
The square shape maximises usable space, making it effective for traybakes, roasted vegetables, and small roasts. Upright handles provide secure grip when moving between hob and oven. The pan works across all heat sources including induction, and tolerates oven temperatures up to 260°C.
Key features:
- 3-ply construction: Stainless steel exterior and interior with bonded aluminium core for even heat distribution
- 4.4-litre capacity: Suitable for cooking for 2-4 people
- Hob-to-oven versatility: Use on any hob type then transfer directly to the oven up to 260°C
- Upright handles: Designed for comfortable lifting and secure grip
- Dishwasher safe: Though handwashing is recommended for longevity
- Limited Lifetime Guarantee: Backed by Le Creuset's warranty
This roaster suits those who want a single pan for both stovetop and oven cooking, particularly useful for making gravies directly from roasting juices on the hob.
What Customers Ask About This Roaster
The roaster measures 31.2cm long x 27.5cm wide x 11cm high (including handles). Most UK ovens are 60cm wide internally, so this will fit comfortably with space either side. The depth including handles is 11cm, which Isabel mentions in her review as taking up more height than expected. Measure your oven shelves vertically to ensure you have sufficient clearance, particularly if you typically use multiple shelves simultaneously.
Yes, the stainless steel base is magnetic and fully compatible with induction hobs. Janet specifically mentions using it on induction to make gravy from roasting juices, and Pauline confirms it works well on induction. The flat base provides good contact with induction surfaces for efficient heat transfer.
Janet describes it as "perfect-sized for two people" in her review. The 26cm square base and 7cm internal depth means it will comfortably hold a small chicken (up to 1.5kg), a joint for 2-4 people, or vegetables for 4-6 servings. The square shape uses space more efficiently than round roasters of similar capacity.
Single-layer stainless steel conducts heat poorly, leading to hot spots. The 3-ply construction bonds an aluminium core between two stainless steel layers. Aluminium conducts heat efficiently whilst stainless steel provides durability and a non-reactive cooking surface. This combination delivers more even heating than single-layer stainless steel, reducing the risk of food sticking or burning in spots.
This is not a non-stick coated pan - it's bare stainless steel. However, Isabel mentions in her review that after following the instructions before first use, she "found it worked well and is non stick." Stainless steel develops non-stick properties when properly preheated and when cooking with adequate fat. The care instructions specify rubbing with vegetable oil before first use, which helps. Karen notes that roast potatoes "did not stick" and were "really easy to clean."
What Our Customers Tell Us
Based on customer reviews, three themes emerge consistently. First, customers particularly value the dual functionality - several reviewers specifically mention using the roaster on the hob to make gravy from pan juices, with Janet calling this feature "brilliant." This hob-to-oven versatility appears to be a key reason customers choose this roaster over aluminium alternatives.
Second, the quality and longevity receive repeated mention. Christine, Jacqueline, and Janet all reference the product "lasting a lifetime," suggesting customers view this as a long-term investment rather than disposable cookware. Shelagh is on her second Le Creuset roaster, indicating satisfaction leads to repeat purchases.
Third, the handles warrant attention. Whilst reviewers appreciate them for lifting, Isabel honestly notes they "take up a lot of height in the oven" and mentions getting wrist burns from the hot handles when dealing with food. Karen similarly advises being aware that the tin is deeper when handles are included, affecting shelf placement. Consider your oven shelf spacing and use oven gloves that extend past your wrists.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in hot soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Rub a film of vegetable, rapeseed, or sunflower oil over the interior surface using kitchen paper towel. Rinse with hot water and dry completely. This initial preparation helps develop non-stick properties.
Cooking: Medium or low heat provides best results, even for searing. The 3-ply construction distributes heat efficiently, so high heat is rarely necessary. Use wooden, silicone, or heat-resistant plastic utensils to preserve the surface. Select a hob ring that matches the pan base size for even cooking.
Moving and handling: Always use oven gloves when handling hot cookware - the handles become very hot. On glass cooktops, lift the pan rather than dragging to prevent scratching. When using under the grill, maintain at least 6.5cm distance between the heating element and the top of the pan.
Cleaning: Allow the pan to cool before cleaning. Whilst dishwasher safe, handwashing with hot soapy water and non-abrasive tools will extend the pan's life. For stubborn residue, soak in hot soapy water before washing.
Storage: Freezer compatible. Can be stacked with other cookware.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care, and we stock Le Creuset because their products align with our standards for longevity and performance.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked with it. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when purchasing cookware.
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally break this roaster, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of breakage. Photos of the damage are acceptable. If you registered your purchase with us at point of sale, we'll have it logged. Online purchases are automatically recorded. We can also accept bank statements if you've misplaced your receipt.
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
Le Creuset's guarantee covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship under normal domestic use. It does not cover damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear and tear. For specific claims, contact Le Creuset's customer services directly or contact us and we can advise on the process.
Yes, stainless steel is more resistant to scratching than non-stick coatings. However, Le Creuset recommends silicone, wooden, or heat-resistant plastic tools for best results and to minimise surface marking over time. Metal utensils won't damage the pan's functionality but may leave minor surface marks with prolonged use.
Yes. If you've seen this identical Le Creuset 26cm square roaster cheaper elsewhere, tell us where. If it's available with our competitor on the day you contact us, we'll match the price. The item must be identical in specifications and colour.
Yes, the manufacturer's description specifically mentions "delicious baked desserts" as a suitable use. The 4.4L capacity and square shape work well for traybakes, fruit crumbles, and other baked puddings. Being oven-safe to 260°C provides flexibility for various dessert recipes.
Aluminium roasting tins typically cannot be used on the hob and may warp at high temperatures. This 3-ply roaster allows you to start cooking on the hob then transfer to the oven, or make gravy directly in the pan after roasting. The stainless steel construction won't react with acidic foods, and the Limited Lifetime Guarantee suggests it will outlast disposable aluminium alternatives. However, it does cost more initially and weighs 1.53kg versus approximately 500g for equivalent aluminium.