We are often asked “what is a Shallow Casserole and what can I cook in it?” As one of our most popular pieces of cookware, a Shallow Casserole or braiser is a traditional shape that is uniquely designed with a wide base and shallow sloped sides. It is like a cross between a casserole and a skillet, and is a versatile piece to add to your Le Creuset collection.
A Shallow Casserole is typically used for braising which is a traditional culinary technique that some think equates to a bowl of stew or soup. But in fact braising is a cooking method that applies steady, even heat and moisture over a long time to transform tough cuts of meat and vegetables into tender, flavourful dishes with a thick rich sauce. Available in a variety of sizes in cookware collections, a Shallow Casserole can be used for so much more than just braising though. The multipurpose shape can also take the place of a skillet on the stove top for shallow frying, steaming, stews, casseroles and for serving from oven to table.
Shallow Casserole vs. Casserole vs. Skillet
The shape of a braiser is somewhere between a casserole and a skillet. It has sloped sides that are shallower than a round casserole but deeper than a skillet, with plenty of depth for sauces and stews. Unlike a round casserole, however, a braiser also has a curved bottom to make it easy to stir and toss food while sautéing or stir-frying, or to scoop and serve directly from the pan.
The wide base and large cooking surface are more similar to a skillet which makes it perfect for searing, since meat or vegetables can be placed in a single layer without crowding. The greater surface area also helps reduce and evaporate liquid when braising or making sauces.
A Shallow Casserole usually comes with a tight-fitting lid. This is a key step when braising food as it helps circulate steam within the vessel to lock in moisture and flavour.
The Shallow Casserole is a go-to everyday pan.
What Can I Cook in a Shallow Casserole?
As noted, a Shallow Casserole is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for a variety of recipes. All of our Shallow Casseroles are oven-safe, which means you can start a recipe on the stovetop and then pop it into the oven to finish cooking. With its elegant shape, the braiser is equally at home on the table for easy serving at mealtime.
In addition to braising meats like short ribs and lamb shanks, try delicious braised squash, fennel and other vegetables. Pull out your braiser the next time you want to make chili, curry or stew, and casseroles like mac and cheese, bread pudding or baked stuffed shells.
The wide base is great for making focaccia, as well as cobblers, cakes and giant skillet cookies. Larger sized braisers can even double as roasters.
