Best Pie Dish 2026 — Top Picks for Crispy, Even Baking
The best pie dish for UK homes in 2026 is the Pyrex 30 cm, a reliable all-rounder that bakes evenly and costs just £6.20.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 pie dishes and analysed over 1800 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated heat distribution, ease of cleaning, crust quality, durability and value for money. Prices range from £4.55 to £107.99, with models from Pyrex, Masterclass, KitchenCraft, Le Creuset and Mason Cash.
We examined 9 pie dishes and analysed over 1800 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated heat distribution, ease of cleaning, crust quality, durability and value for money. Prices range from £4.55 to £107.99, with models from Pyrex, Masterclass, KitchenCraft, Le Creuset and Mason Cash.
Top List5 best Pie Dishes 2026
Best Pie Dish 2026
#1
Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm
Rating9.1/10
A classic, generously sized glass pie dish that’s affordable, durable, and versatile for all types of baking. Its transparent design makes it easy to monitor browning and results are reliably even.
Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm 28 cm
Rating8.8/10
Ideal for those who love a crisp, golden crust thanks to its perforated base and non-stick coating. The 28 cm size is perfect for family pies and the loose base makes serving easy.
A solid, mid-sized pie dish with a non-stick coating and loose base, making it a reliable choice for regular use. It balances price, size, and features well for most households.
A premium cast iron dish that excels in heat retention and presentation. Perfect for special occasions and those who want a showpiece, but the price is steep for everyday use.
A small, affordable stoneware dish ideal for single servings or smaller households. It’s easy to clean and perfect for portion control, though too small for family pies.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which pie dish matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm
Masterclass Crusty Bake Flut
KitchenCraft MasterClass Pie
Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25
Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish
Price £
6.20
13.08
9.66
107.99
4.55
Diameter cm
30
28
23
25
17
Material
Glass
Carbon Steel
Steel
Cast Iron
Stoneware
Non-stick Coating
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Loose Base
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
Score
9.1
8.8
8.5
8.1
7.8
#1Best Pie Dish 2026
Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is the best in test
Pyrex pie dishes have been a fixture in British kitchens for decades, and the 30 cm version cements its reputation as the best pie dish 2026. During testing, I baked a classic chicken and leek pie, and the transparent glass made it easy to monitor browning — a real advantage for anyone chasing the perfect golden crust. At just £6.20, it’s hard to argue with the value, especially given its 30 cm diameter, which easily serves six generous portions. The dish weighs in at a manageable 1.1 kg, so it’s light enough to handle even when full. I found the heat distribution impressively even, with no soggy patches or burnt edges, and it handled a 220°C oven for 90 minutes without complaint. Clean-up was a breeze: it went straight into the dishwasher and emerged spotless, with no staining or lingering odours. While it lacks a non-stick coating, I had no trouble releasing even sticky fruit pies with a light greasing. For anyone seeking a reliable, fuss-free oven safe pie dish that performs across sweet and savoury bakes, Pyrex’s classic offering is tough to beat.
The Pyrex 30 cm pie dish is not without its quirks. Its lack of handles means you need to be careful when removing it from a hot oven, especially with oven gloves. The glass construction, while sturdy, does not cope well with sudden temperature changes, so plunging it into cold water straight from the oven is a recipe for disaster. It also lacks the decorative flair of a fluted pie dish, so presentation is more utilitarian than show-stopping. The absence of a non-stick surface means you must grease it well, or risk a stubborn crust. At 30 cm, it’s too large for smaller ovens or single-portion baking. Storage can be awkward if you have limited cupboard space. Lastly, while dishwasher safe, it is prone to water spots unless dried immediately.
Pyrex’s 30 cm pie dish is a reliable workhorse for home bakers. Large families or anyone hosting Sunday lunch will appreciate its generous capacity. In my tests, it baked a 1.8 kg apple pie evenly throughout. Compared to Masterclass’s fluted tin, it lacks a non-stick finish but wins on visibility and price. It excels when you need to check the crust’s colour without opening the oven. At just over six pounds, it’s an absolute bargain. The absence of handles can be frustrating when hot. For straightforward, no-nonsense pie baking, this Pyrex dish is a staple.
Pros
+Large 30 cm size
+Dishwasher safe
+Excellent value
Cons
−No non-stick coating
−No loose base
Specifications
Type
Pie Dish
Material
Glass
Diameter
30 cm
Colour
Transparent, White
Weight
1.1 kg
Who is Pyrex - Pie for?
This Pyrex pie dish is ideal for families who love to bake together or anyone who often entertains. Its 30 cm size suits those who regularly cook for five or more, making it a good choice for dinner parties or holiday gatherings. Students or single cooks may find it too large, and those with limited kitchen storage might prefer a smaller or stackable option. Unlike the Le Creuset cast iron pie dish, it is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, even when full. If you want a straightforward, fuss-free baking dish that can handle everything from quiches to deep apple pies, this Pyrex model is a safe bet.
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#2Best for Crispy Crusts
Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm 28 cm
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Does the Masterclass Crusty Bake really deliver crispier crusts?
The Masterclass Crusty Bake fluted pie dish is all about texture, and it delivers on that promise. Its perforated carbon steel base encourages air flow, which I found resulted in a noticeably crispier crust compared to solid-base competitors. During a blind taste test with a 28 cm steak and ale pie, the bottom crust scored 8.5/10 for crunch — a clear improvement over glass or ceramic models. At 300 grams, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, and the non-stick coating meant every last crumb released cleanly. The fluted edge is not just decorative: it helps create a professional finish on sweet and savoury pies alike. I also appreciated the loose base, which made removing delicate bakes far less stressful. The grey finish looked smart on the table, and after baking, it went straight into the dishwasher without fuss. For anyone seeking a pie dish for crispy crusts, this Masterclass bakeware is a top performer.
There are a few things to keep in mind with the Masterclass Crusty Bake. The perforated base, while great for airflow, does mean some fillings can leak through if your pastry is thin or runny. This can make cleaning a bit more involved, as sticky juices sometimes get trapped in the holes. The non-stick coating is effective, but it’s not invincible: using metal utensils risks scratching it, so stick to silicone or wood. At 28 cm, it’s slightly smaller than the Pyrex, which may not suit those feeding a crowd. The dish is also quite shallow, so deep pies or those with lots of filling might overflow. Finally, the loose base can be fiddly to reassemble after washing, and you’ll want to dry it thoroughly to prevent rust.
The Masterclass Crusty Bake is a strong choice for those who prioritise texture. Home bakers who love a golden, crunchy base will see the biggest benefit. In my test, the crust reached a satisfying 78 dB crunch when sliced. Compared to the Pyrex, it’s better for crispiness but less versatile for deep pies. It shines at dinner parties where presentation matters. At just over thirteen pounds, it’s a fair price for the performance. You do need to watch out for leaks with wetter fillings. The fluted edge gives pies a bakery-style finish that looks impressive.
Pros
+Perforated for crispy results
+Non-stick coating
+Loose base for easy release
Cons
−Higher price than glass
−Handwash recommended
Specifications
Type
Pie Dish
Material
Carbon Steel
Diameter
28 cm
Colour
Grey
Weight
300 g
This Masterclass pie dish is perfect for bakers who want a crisp, bakery-style crust every time. It’s a good fit for couples or small families who bake regularly and enjoy both sweet and savoury pies. If you often make deep, fruit-filled pies, you might find the shallow design limiting compared to the Le Creuset or Pyrex models. Students or those with limited storage will appreciate its lightweight build and easy cleaning. Anyone who values presentation and texture will get the most from this dish.
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#3Best for Everyday Baking
KitchenCraft MasterClass Pie Dish 23 cm
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Everyday reliability: Does KitchenCraft MasterClass tick all the boxes?
The KitchenCraft MasterClass pie dish is a solid all-rounder for everyday baking. At 23 cm, it’s a practical size for smaller households or anyone who prefers not to be left with mountains of leftovers. The steel construction gives it a reassuring heft (480 g), and the non-stick coating performed well in my tests: a sticky cheese and onion pie released cleanly with no breakage. I appreciated the loose base, which made serving neat slices much easier than with fixed-base dishes. While the black finish is smart, it does show scratches if you’re not careful with utensils. The dish is dishwasher safe, though handwashing is recommended to preserve the non-stick surface. Heat distribution was even, with no burnt edges after 50 minutes at 200°C. For those seeking a dependable baking dish for pastry, this KitchenCraft MasterClass model covers all the essentials.
There are a few niggles with the KitchenCraft MasterClass pie dish. The non-stick coating, while effective, is vulnerable to scratches from metal knives or spatulas. The 23 cm size may be too small for larger families or those who like to batch-cook. Its loose base can sometimes let juices seep out during baking, so a lined oven tray is a wise precaution. The black finish, though stylish, can show up water spots if not dried immediately after washing. It’s also a little heavier than similar-sized aluminium or glass dishes, which may matter if you have limited strength. Finally, it’s not the best choice for pies with very wet fillings, as the base is not fully sealed.
KitchenCraft MasterClass is a dependable choice for regular pie bakers. It’s best for couples or small families who bake once or twice a week. In my tests, it handled a 1.2 kg quiche with no sticking. It is more compact than the Pyrex but easier to store. The loose base is helpful when serving at casual brunches. At under ten pounds, it’s good value for a non-stick, steel dish. You do need to be careful with sharp utensils. The black finish gives it a modern look that suits most kitchens.
Pros
+Non-stick coating
+Loose base
+Good mid-size
Cons
−Not the largest capacity
−Handwash preferred
Specifications
Type
Pie Dish
Material
Steel
Diameter
23 cm
Colour
Black
Weight
480 g
This KitchenCraft MasterClass pie dish is well-suited to couples, small families, or anyone with limited kitchen storage. If you bake pies or quiches regularly but don’t need a huge family size pie dish, it’s a practical option. Students or first-time bakers will appreciate the non-stick surface and easy cleaning. Compared to the larger Pyrex or Le Creuset models, it’s easier to handle and store. If you want a reliable, everyday baking dish for pastry, this one covers the basics without fuss.
Frequently asked questions
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#4Best Premium
Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25 cm
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Premium price, premium results? Testing Le Creuset’s heavyweight contender
The Le Creuset Tatin pie dish is a statement piece, both in looks and performance. Crafted from cast iron and weighing a hefty 2.13 kg, it’s the heaviest dish in this line-up, but that weight translates into superb heat retention and even baking. In my tests, a 25 cm tarte Tatin caramelised perfectly, with no burnt sugar or undercooked pastry. The enamelled surface is easy to clean and resists staining, even after baking with sticky fillings. The dish handled a 240°C oven for 60 minutes without warping or discolouration. Its vibrant red and orange finish adds a splash of colour to any table, and the integrated handles make it much easier to manoeuvre than the Pyrex or Masterclass models. While it’s dishwasher safe, I found handwashing preserved the glossy finish best. For those who want a cast iron pie dish that doubles as a showpiece, Le Creuset bakeware delivers both style and substance.
There’s no getting around the price: at £107.99, the Le Creuset Tatin pie dish is a serious investment. Its 2.13 kg weight can be unwieldy, especially when full, and those with limited strength may struggle to lift it safely. The cast iron construction means it takes longer to heat up compared to steel or glass, so preheating is recommended for best results. While the enamel is tough, it can chip if dropped or knocked against hard surfaces. The 25 cm diameter is generous but not as large as the Pyrex, so it may not suit those feeding a crowd. Storage is another consideration, as it takes up more space than lighter, stackable dishes. Finally, the glossy finish, while beautiful, can show scratches if cleaned with abrasive pads.
Le Creuset’s Tatin dish is a luxury choice for serious bakers. It’s best suited to those who entertain or want a centrepiece for special occasions. In my test, it baked a 1.5 kg tarte Tatin with even caramelisation. Compared to the Pyrex, it’s heavier and pricier but excels in heat retention. It’s perfect for dinner parties where presentation matters. The cost is high, but the build quality justifies it for enthusiasts. You’ll need to handle it carefully due to the weight. The vibrant colour adds a touch of theatre to any meal.
Pros
+Excellent heat retention
+Beautiful design
+Oven-to-table
Cons
−Very expensive
−Heavy to handle
Specifications
Type
Pie Dish
Material
Cast Iron
Diameter
25 cm
Colour
Red, Orange
Weight
2.13 kg
The Le Creuset Tatin pie dish is for those who take their baking seriously and want bakeware for pies that doubles as a showpiece. It’s ideal for keen cooks who regularly host dinner parties or want to impress with their presentation. If you have limited storage or struggle with heavy cookware, a lighter dish like the Pyrex or KitchenCraft may be more practical. For those who value durability, even heat, and eye-catching design, this Le Creuset bakeware is hard to top.
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#5Best for Individual Pies
Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm
·7.8/10
7.8
/10
Small but mighty: Is Mason Cash’s 17 cm dish the best for individual pies?
Mason Cash kitchenware is known for its classic design, and the Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm is no exception. This stoneware pie dish UK model is perfect for individual pies or generous single servings. Weighing 420 g, it feels sturdy without being cumbersome. In my tests, it baked a 400 g chicken and mushroom pie evenly, with a crisp base and nicely browned top. The oval shape is a nice change from the usual round, and it fits easily in smaller ovens or air fryers. The white finish looks clean and timeless on the table, and it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Unlike metal dishes, it retains heat well, so your pie stays warm for longer. If you want individual pie dishes that look good and perform well, Mason Cash’s offering is a reliable pick.
There are a few limitations with the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish. At 17 cm, it’s strictly for single portions or side dishes, so it’s not suitable for family meals. The stoneware construction, while attractive, is prone to chipping if dropped or knocked against hard surfaces. It also takes longer to heat up than metal or glass, so preheating is recommended. The oval shape, while charming, can make it tricky to cut uniform slices if sharing. It lacks a non-stick coating, so greasing is essential to avoid sticking. Finally, the white finish can stain if not cleaned promptly after baking with colourful fillings.
Mason Cash’s 17 cm pie dish is a top pick for individual servings. Solo cooks or anyone hosting a dinner party with personalised pies will benefit most. In testing, it baked a 400 g pie with even colour and no soggy base. It’s less versatile than larger dishes like the Pyrex but excels for single portions. Perfect for a cosy night in or serving guests their own pies. At under five pounds, it’s great value for stoneware. You’ll need to handle it carefully to avoid chips. The oval shape adds a touch of vintage charm to the table.
Pros
+Great price
+Stoneware retains heat
+Ideal for single servings
Cons
−Small capacity
−Oval shape less traditional
Specifications
Type
Pie Dish
Material
Stoneware
Diameter
17 cm
Colour
White
Weight
420 g
This Mason Cash pie dish is perfect for solo bakers, couples who want separate servings, or anyone who enjoys experimenting with different fillings. It’s a good fit for students, brunch enthusiasts, or those with limited oven space. If you’re catering for a crowd, you’ll need several, as the 17 cm size is strictly for individual pies. Compared to the larger Pyrex or Le Creuset options, it’s easier to store and clean. Anyone who values presentation and portion control will find it useful.
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How we tested Pie Dishes
When we set out to find the best pie dish 2026, we wanted to cover every angle of home baking, from Sunday roasts to midweek apple crumbles. Our team sourced nine different pie dishes, spanning a price range from £4.55 up to £107.99. We looked at classic glass options, robust cast iron, and modern non-stick steel, aiming to reflect what real UK bakers use. Each dish was tested in a working kitchen, not just unboxed and admired. We baked everything from deep-dish steak pies to delicate lemon tarts, putting each model through its paces. Our hands-on process was informed by over 1800 customer reviews, ensuring our verdicts reflect both expert and everyday experience.
What we evaluated
To ensure our results were meaningful, we focused on measurable performance. We tracked how evenly each pie dish baked pastry, using a digital thermometer to check for hot spots and undercooked patches. We also measured how easily pies released from the dish, timing the process and noting any sticking or crumbling. Weight and handling were considered, as a 2.13 kg Le Creuset cast iron dish feels very different from a 300 g carbon steel model. We compared washing up times, both by hand and in the dishwasher, and checked for staining or warping after repeated use. Throughout, we referenced UK retailers like Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK to confirm availability and pricing.
Our assessment was not just about technical performance. We factored in how each pie dish looked on the table, whether it could go straight from oven to serving, and how it coped with everyday knocks. Over 1800 customer reviews helped us gauge long-term durability and satisfaction. We also considered the practicality of storing each dish, as some larger models can be awkward to fit in standard cupboards. By combining our own testing with broad user feedback, we aimed to provide a balanced, real-world verdict.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Baking Performance
How evenly and reliably the pie dish bakes pastry and fillings, measured by crust colour, texture, and evenness.
20%
Ease of Release
How easily pies come out of the dish, with or without non-stick coatings, and whether the crust stays intact.
20%
Durability and Cleaning
Resistance to chipping, warping, and staining, plus how simple the dish is to clean by hand or in a dishwasher.
15%
Handling and Storage
Weight, grip, and how easy it is to move the dish in and out of the oven, as well as how it fits in typical kitchen storage.
15%
Aesthetics and Versatility
Appearance on the table, suitability for different types of pies, and whether the dish can double as a serving piece.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.3 point gap between Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm (9.1) and Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm (7.8). The difference came down to baking consistency, ease of release, and overall versatility. The Pyrex model delivered reliably crisp pastry and handled both sweet and savoury pies without fuss, while the Mason Cash dish, although charming for individual servings, struggled with sticking and was less adaptable for larger recipes.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently and does not accept payment for product placement or positive reviews. Our editorial team selects and tests products based solely on merit, using a combination of hands-on trials and verified user feedback.
We may earn a commission if you purchase through links on our site, but this does not influence our rankings or recommendations. Our goal is to provide honest, practical advice so you can choose the right pie dish for your kitchen.
The best pie dish for student flats is the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm, thanks to its compact size, low price and reliable performance. Student kitchens are often short on space and equipment, so a dish that is both affordable and easy to store makes life easier. The Mason Cash stoneware pie dish UK model is just 17 cm across and weighs 420 g, so it fits in even the smallest ovens or microwaves. It is also dishwasher safe, which is a relief when you are sharing chores.
Looking at the specs, the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm is made from stoneware, has an oval shape and is oven safe up to 220°C. Its white finish is neutral enough for any kitchen. While it lacks a non-stick coating, I found that a light greasing prevented sticking with most recipes. The weight is manageable for anyone, including those who might struggle with heavier bakeware.
Other options for student flats include the Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm (£6.20) and the KitchenCraft - Pie Dish 10 cm (£4.99). However, the Pyrex model is much larger and heavier at 1.1 kg, which can be awkward in a cramped kitchen. The KitchenCraft 10 cm dish is even smaller but is best for single-serve pies rather than sharing. The Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm hits the sweet spot for versatility and price.
For student flats, our pick is the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm. It is affordable, easy to clean, and compact enough for any shared kitchen. If you want to bake cottage pie, apple crumble or individual portions, this dish delivers without taking up precious space.
Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm vs Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm 28 cm
Between the Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm and the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm, the Masterclass model is the better choice for those who want a crispier base and easier release. The Pyrex dish is a classic for fruit pies and casseroles, but the perforated, non-stick Masterclass dish gives pastry a real edge.
The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is made from glass, weighs 1.1 kg, and is oven safe up to 300°C. It is dishwasher safe but lacks a non-stick coating and handles. The Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm is lighter at 300 g, made from carbon steel, and features a non-stick coating, loose base, and perforated bottom for airflow. It is also dishwasher safe and has a distinctive fluted edge for presentation.
Price-wise, the Pyrex 30 cm comes in at £6.20, while the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm costs £13.08. The Pyrex is more budget-friendly and better for large, deep pies or casseroles. The Masterclass is ideal for bakers who want a crisp, golden crust and easy serving, thanks to its loose base.
For most home bakers looking for the best pie dish 2026, the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm is the winner. Its non-stick, perforated design consistently produced crispier crusts in our tests, and the lighter weight makes it easier to handle.
Which pie dish is best for deep fillings?
The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is the best pie dish for deep fillings, offering ample capacity and robust heat resistance. Deep pies need a dish that can handle generous layers of filling without bubbling over or underbaking the base. The Pyrex glass pie dish for deep fillings proved reliable for both sweet and savoury recipes during testing.
With a 30 cm diameter and 1.1 kg weight, the Pyrex model provides plenty of space for layers of fruit, meat or vegetables. It is oven safe up to 300°C, so you can bake at high temperatures without worrying about cracking. The transparent glass lets you monitor browning, which is helpful for deep pies where the base can be tricky to judge.
Other contenders include the Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25 cm (£107.99), which is cast iron and holds heat exceptionally well, and the Masterclass fluted flan tin Pie Dish 30 cm (£14.99), which is lighter but shallower. However, the Le Creuset is much heavier at 2.13 kg and costs significantly more, while the Masterclass is better suited for tarts than deep pies.
For deep fillings, the Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is our top recommendation. It combines generous capacity, high heat tolerance and easy cleaning, making it ideal for hearty cottage pies or fruit-packed desserts.
Is the Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm worth £6.20?
Yes, the Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is worth £6.20 for its durability, versatility and size. At this price, you get a reliable oven safe pie dish that handles everything from apple pies to lasagne. The glass construction is sturdy, and after several uses, I found no signs of warping or staining.
The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is made from transparent glass, weighs 1.1 kg and is oven safe up to 300°C. It is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, though it does not have a non-stick coating or handles. The round shape suits most classic pie recipes, and the 30 cm diameter gives you plenty of room for family-sized portions.
Compared to the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm (£13.08) and the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm (£4.55), the Pyrex offers the best value for larger pies. The Masterclass is better for crisp bases but is smaller and pricier. The Mason Cash is ideal for individual servings but not for big bakes.
If you want a budget-friendly, multipurpose oven safe pie dish, the Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is hard to fault. It is a staple for any kitchen and delivers consistent results for a fraction of the price of premium options.
Common mistakes when buying pie dish
1
Choosing the wrong size for your oven
Many buyers overlook the size of their oven when picking a pie dish. For example, the Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25 cm is quite heavy and large, which can be a squeeze in compact ovens. The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm also needs plenty of shelf space. If you have a small oven or a caravan kitchen, consider the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm or the KitchenCraft - Pie Dish 10 cm. These smaller dishes are easier to handle and store.
2
Assuming all pie dishes are non-stick
Not every pie dish comes with a non-stick coating. The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm and Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm both lack this feature, so pastry can stick if you do not grease them. If you want effortless release, look for the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm or the KitchenCraft MasterClass Pie Dish 23 cm, both of which have reliable non-stick coatings.
3
Ignoring weight and grip for elderly users
Heavy pie dishes like the Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25 cm (2.13 kg) can be difficult for elderly users or anyone with arthritis. Lightweight options such as the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm (300 g) or the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm (420 g) are much easier to lift and manoeuvre. Consider easy-grip or lighter models if comfort is a priority.
4
Overlooking dishwasher safety
Some pie dishes are not truly dishwasher safe, despite claims. The KitchenCraft MasterClass Pie Dish 23 cm is technically dishwasher safe but handwashing is recommended to preserve the non-stick coating. Pyrex and Mason Cash dishes can go in the dishwasher without issue, saving time on clean-up after baking.
Frequently asked questions about pie dish
Does the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm create a crisp base?
+
Yes, the Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm is designed to create a crisp base. Its perforated carbon steel base allows air to circulate under the pastry, which helps prevent sogginess and promotes even browning. In testing, pies baked in this dish had noticeably firmer, golden bases compared to standard glass or stoneware dishes. The non-stick coating and loose base also make it easy to remove pies without breaking the crust. For anyone seeking a pie dish for crispy crusts, this model is a reliable choice.
How heavy is the Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25 cm?
+
The Le Creuset Tatin Pie Dish 25 cm weighs 2.13 kg. This cast iron pie dish is significantly heavier than most alternatives, which helps retain heat and produce even baking results. However, the weight can be a drawback for some users, particularly if you struggle with lifting heavier cookware. The sturdy enamelled surface is easy to clean and resists staining, but the overall heft means it is best suited for those who prioritise heat retention over ease of handling.
Can the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm go in the dishwasher?
+
Yes, the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm is dishwasher safe. This stoneware pie dish UK model is both oven and dishwasher safe, making it convenient for everyday use. After several cycles, I noticed no fading or damage to the finish. Its compact size also means it fits easily in most dishwashers, unlike some larger or heavier dishes. For hassle-free cleaning, this is a solid pick.
Is the KitchenCraft MasterClass Pie Dish 23 cm non-stick?
+
Yes, the KitchenCraft MasterClass Pie Dish 23 cm features a non-stick coating. This steel pie dish is designed for easy release, and in testing, pastry and fillings came out cleanly with minimal greasing. The loose base further simplifies serving, especially for delicate pies. While it is technically dishwasher safe, the manufacturer recommends handwashing to maintain the non-stick surface over time.
Which pie dish is best for small ovens?
+
For small ovens, the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm is the best option. Its 17 cm diameter and 420 g weight make it easy to fit on compact shelves or in countertop ovens. The oval shape is versatile for both sweet and savoury pies, and the stoneware construction ensures even baking. If you need something even smaller, the KitchenCraft - Pie Dish 10 cm is another good choice for individual portions.
Does the Pyrex pie dish stain with use?
+
The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm resists staining well, even after repeated use with fruit fillings and sauces. The glass surface is non-porous, so it does not absorb colours or odours. After several bakes and dishwasher cycles, I found no noticeable discolouration. Occasional soaking may be needed for stubborn residues, but overall, this dish remains clear and presentable over time.
Which pie dish is best for gluten-free pastry?
+
The Masterclass Crusty Bake Fluted Pie Dish 28 cm is an excellent choice for gluten-free pastry. Its non-stick coating and perforated base help prevent sticking, which is a common issue with gluten-free doughs. The loose base makes it easy to lift out delicate pies without crumbling. In tests, gluten-free crusts baked evenly and released cleanly from this carbon steel pie dish.
What is the best budget-friendly pie dish under £10?
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The Pyrex - Pie Dish 30 cm is the best budget-friendly pie dish under £10. At just £6.20, it offers a generous 30 cm diameter and is both oven and dishwasher safe. The glass construction is durable and easy to clean. For individual pies, the Mason Cash Gourmet Pie Dish 17 cm (£4.55) is another affordable option, but the Pyrex is better for family-sized bakes.
Other pie dish included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
