| Dish | Oven + microwave? | Best for | Downside |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic oval, 1-person (pair) | Yes to both | Weeknight gratins, reheating — the default | Two dishes to wash, not one |
| Large ceramic casserole + lid | Yes to both | Family lasagna, baked rice, potlucks | Bulky; slow to preheat |
| Heatproof glass (Pyrex class) | Yes to both (no broiler) | Everyday bakes and reheating; see-through | Thermal-shock care; no flame or broiler |
| Enameled cast iron baker | Oven yes, microwave no | Heat retention, stove-to-oven dishes | Weight and price of an heirloom |
| Metal / foil baking dish | Oven only | Broiler crusts, disposable potluck trays | The microwave half of the job is gone |
Which Gratin (Casserole) Dish Should You Buy?
Published: ·Updated:
A pair of one-person ceramic ovals that also go in the microwave — that's the gratin workhorse, because reheating is half a gratin dish's life. The big lidded casserole is a second purchase for households that bake to share.