Definition of casserole

The origin of the word "casserole" dates back to 18th-century France. The word itself is derived from the French verb "casser," meaning "to break" or "to crack," and the suffix "-ole," which was a diminutive form. In the 18th century, cooks used earthenware dishes with a foot, known as "casseroles," to bake small, individual portions of food. These early casseroles were made of ceramic and had a hollowed-out center, allowing cooks to break or crack eggs, shellfish, or other ingredients into the dish. Over time, the term "casserole" evolved to describe not only the dish itself but also the food cooked in it - a savory mixture of ingredients, often including meat, vegetables, and grains, baked in the oven. By the 20th century, the term "casserole" had become a staple in American cuisine, often associated with comforting, one-pot meals. Today, the word "casserole" is widely used around the world to describe a versatile and convenient cooking method.