What, Exactly, Makes A Casserole A Casserole?

There is nothing more comforting or delightful than a casserole. It signifies a meal shared with others, as it is a great, easy way to cook for a crowd. But what exactly IS a casserole? Something so versatile can be hard to define especially when it can mean something entirely different to different people.

First, let's take a look at the meaning of the word. According to MasterClass the etymology of the word "casserole" dates back to the Greek word "kuathion" meaning "little cup." Diving into this further, the Online Etymology Dictionary defines it as a "stew pan" or "saucepan" with French origins. So what does this mean?

Put simply; a casserole is a one-pash dish that is cooked in the oven. Prior to baking, different ingredients are mixed together, poured into an oven-safe casserole dish, and baked. But what is a casserole dish? Well, It is any oven-safe dish usually made out of ceramic or glass that is deep enough for whatever meal you are preparing. The cooking of the casserole is where the magic happens. The ingredients melt and meld together into a usually saucy, hearty meal. Whether it's a breakfast, lunch, or dinner casserole, it will surely put a smile on someone's face. Now a casserole is not always the prettiest thing in the world to look at, but it is almost always delicious. This isn't about fine dining but good old-fashioned cooking and feeding a crowd from the heart.

Here is an easy checklist to follow with the three characteristics of a casserole that make it easy to identify. The first one is the method; casseroles are always baked in the oven. The second is the pan it's cooked in, and the third is the type of dish, which is usually rich comfort food that doesn't exactly correlate with following a diet.

When you don't know what to make for dinner, consult a list of the best casserole recipes, and you're more likely than not going to have the ingredients on hand to make at least one of them. Whether it is a cold winter night or a hot summer day, nothing hits the spot quite like homemade macaroni and cheese, made in a casserole dish, of course. With St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, it's the perfect time to brush up on your Shepherd's Pie recipe, which is arguably one of the best casserole recipes of all time. A meaty-based layer with buttery mashed potatoes on top, covered in melted cheese, and baked in the oven till perfectly golden? A dream.

The beauty of a casserole is that it can be anything you want it to be. Each family has their own special recipe that can't be beaten by anything found in a store or restaurant. A casserole symbolizes a meal cooked with love at home, enjoyed with the company of family and friends.