Casserole: meaning, definitions and examples

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casserole

 

[ ˈkæs.ər.oʊl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

cooking dish

A casserole is a large, deep dish used both in the oven and as a serving vessel. The word casserole also refers to the food cooked and served in such a dish, typically a one-pot meal containing ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and a starchy binder like rice or pasta.

Synonyms

bake, dish, pot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
casserole

Used to describe a deep dish typically used for oven cooking, or the meal prepared in such a dish. Often applied to hearty, comfort foods prepared in a single pot.

  • We made a chicken and rice casserole for dinner
  • The casserole dish needs to be well greased before use
bake

Refers to the method of cooking food by using dry heat, typically in an oven. Can be used more broadly beyond casseroles, applicable to a variety of foods like cakes, bread, and vegetables.

  • She loves to bake cookies on the weekends
  • You need to bake the lasagna for at least 45 minutes
dish

A general term for any prepared food or meal, also refers to the container used for serving or cooking food. When used singularly, it doesn't specify the method of cooking or the type of food.

  • This chicken dish is one of my favorites
  • Make sure you use an oven-safe dish for the casserole
pot

Typically used to describe a deep round container used for cooking on a stove. It can also refer to the content cooked inside, especially soups, stews, and similar preparations.

  • I simmered the beef stew in a large pot
  • She put the vegetables in a pot to boil

Examples of usage

  • Mom made a delicious chicken casserole for dinner.
  • She baked a vegetable casserole for the potluck.
  • The beef casserole was a hit at the party.
Context #2 | Noun

food

In North America, a casserole is a popular type of dish that combines various ingredients, often including meat, vegetables, and a starchy component, and is baked until cooked through. Casseroles are often considered comfort food and are commonly served at potlucks and family gatherings.

Synonyms

bake, hotpot, stew.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
casserole

Typically used when referring to a dish that consists of a variety of ingredients baked together in the oven, often with a topping. A casserole is usually prepared in a casserole dish.

  • We made a chicken and rice casserole for dinner
  • The green bean casserole was a hit at Thanksgiving
hotpot

Often refers to a communal, interactive meal where diners cook ingredients in a simmering pot of broth at the table. It is popular in East Asian cuisines.

  • We enjoyed a spicy Sichuan hotpot with friends last night
  • Hotpot is perfect for social gatherings
stew

Refers to a dish in which ingredients are slowly simmered in liquid for a long time, resulting in a rich and hearty meal. Typically involves chunks of meat and vegetables.

  • The beef stew has been simmering for hours and smells wonderful
  • She made a vegetable stew using fresh produce from the garden
bake

Generally used to describe the cooking method involving prolonged heat in an oven. It can refer to a variety of dishes, including pastries, bread, and certain savory dishes.

  • She loves to bake cookies on the weekends
  • For dinner, I think I'll bake a lasagna

Examples of usage

  • She brought a tuna casserole to the picnic.
  • The cheesy casserole was a crowd favorite.
  • Vegetarian casseroles are a healthy dinner option.

Translations

Translations of the word "casserole" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caçarola

🇮🇳 कैसरोल

🇩🇪 Auflauf

🇮🇩 kaserol

🇺🇦 запіканка

🇵🇱 zapiekanka

🇯🇵 キャセロール (kyaserōru)

🇫🇷 casserole

🇪🇸 cazuela

🇹🇷 güveç

🇰🇷 캐서롤 (kaeseorol)

🇸🇦 كسرولة (kasrūla)

🇨🇿 zapečené jídlo

🇸🇰 zapekaná miska

🇨🇳 砂锅 (shāguō)

🇸🇮 narastek

🇮🇸 grautur

🇰🇿 кастрюль

🇬🇪 კასეროლი

🇦🇿 qazan yeməyi

🇲🇽 cazuela

Etymology

The term 'casserole' originated from the French word 'cassole', which referred to a deep dish used for cooking. Casseroles have been a part of culinary traditions for centuries, with variations found in different cultures around the world. The concept of combining ingredients in a single dish for baking likely dates back to early cooking practices, making casseroles a timeless and versatile dish.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,307, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.