Can I use aluminum foil as a substitute for parchment paper?

Question

I'm attempting to make this recipe for Greek Meatza which calls for baking ground beef in a pan on top of parchment paper.

I don't have access to parchment paper, so I'm wondering: can I substitute aluminum foil? If so, are there any adjustments I should make to the time or temperature for baking?

Thanks.

Answer

Depends on what you're making. The principal differences are:

• Parchment is much more non-stick than aluminum foil. I haven't tried non-stick aluminum myself, so no idea how that compares.
• Parchment insulates (against heat transfer) more than aluminum.
• Parchment is somewhat porous; it absorbs water.

Looking at that recipe quickly, it'd probably work fine. I'd suggest substituting aluminum foil sprayed with Pam (non-stick cooking spray). The bottom may brown a little quicker with the foil.

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