What it is
A casserole may be a lidded pot for stews or a dish intended for the oven. The name does not guarantee that every material tolerates direct heat.
When to use it
Cooking casseroles are used for soups, stews and braises. Oven dishes contain mixtures of meat, vegetables or grains with sauce.
How to use it
Check the vessel and lid for compatibility with the heat source. Le Creuset stoneware, for example, is not intended for stovetop or flame use.
Cleaning and storage
Wash food-contact surfaces with hot, soapy water between uses; rinse and dry. Check the material’s care instructions before choosing a dishwasher or abrasive cleaners.
Safe use
Use oven mitts to handle hot cookware. Turn handles inward on the stove and keep cloths away from flames.
Frequently asked questions
Which tasks is it useful for?
Cooking casseroles are used for soups, stews and braises. Oven dishes contain mixtures of meat, vegetables or grains with sauce.
How should it be cleaned after use?
Wash food-contact surfaces with hot, soapy water between uses; rinse and dry. Check the material’s care instructions before choosing a dishwasher or abrasive cleaners.
What precaution should I remember?
Use oven mitts to handle hot cookware. Turn handles inward on the stove and keep cloths away from flames.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Safe Food Handling | FDA www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling
- Essential Kitchen Equipment and Utensils www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/cooking-skills/meal-planning/essential-kitche…
- Organize Your Space - Spend Smart Eat Smart spendsmart.extension.iastate.edu/cook/organize-your-space/
- Cleaning — Food Standards Scotland www.foodstandards.gov.scot/consumer-advice/food-safety/food-safety-in-the-kitchen/cleaning
- Cook’s Tools — Alice Henneman, University of Nebraska Extension, hosted by Purdue Extension extension.purdue.edu/foodlink/includes/pubs/Kitchen%20Utensils.pdf
- Le Creuset Care and Use www.lecreuset.co.uk/en_GB/care-and-use/cop002.html
