First, almost all of the options listed here are insulated to keep your food cold (hello, healthy casseroles!) or warm (here’s lookin’ at you, party dips!) if necessary. There’s even one that plugs in to heat up a dish once you’re arrived!
The first line of defense for keeping potluck food hot or cold
If you dont have one of these you need to get one. This is mine. Its made by Pyrex and has been well loved.
Its an insulated casserole carrier and comes with a 9″ x 13″ covered baking dish and a hot and cold pack that you heat in the microwave to keep food warm or freeze for keeping food cold. These are awesome and there are some really cute ones out there now.
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I found this one from Rachel Ray in two colors and its definitely a notch above mine in looks.
How to keep food warm at a party
These are great for getting to the party, but, at their cutest, these things are not really elegant sitting on a buffet table. And besides that, youve always got some well-meaning “helper” who takes everything out of their carriers 30 minutes before the meal is served.
Or, maybe you have something that just doesnt hold heat well or would get soggy all covered up tight. Like my sausage balls I make every Christmas, for instance. Or, delicious rolls like these
Make this food-warmer, to make the transportation of the warm easier!
FAQ
How do you carry a hot casserole dish?
Do casserole dishes keep food warm?
How long does a casserole carrier keep food warm?
Casserole carriers keep your food warm while also protecting your favorite casserole dish during travel. “The average carrier with a hot pack inside can keep foods warm, on average, up to 1.5 hours,” says Gumm. “Higher quality carriers, with thick insulation and restaurant-grade lining, can keep foods warm for up to 8 hours.”
Why should you use a casserole carrier?
The convenience of the casserole carrier is a huge bonus for the average household, requiring less time, less cleanup, and excellent portability. The food carrier’s ease of use, and its ability to effectively keep food nice and toasty, make it the best container to keep your food hot.
How do I choose a casserole carrier?
Eek! Well, there’s only one way to solve all those problems: a casserole carrier! There are a few things to consider when choosing the right food carrier for your needs. First, almost all of the options listed here are insulated to keep your food cold (hello, healthy casseroles !) or warm (here’s lookin’ at you, party dips !) if necessary.
Does a casserole carrier have a hot/cold pack?
Gumm says if a casserole carrier has a hot/cold pack included, “it’s a winner.” Hot/cold packs can be microwaved or frozen to extend a carrier’s effectiveness and keep food at a safe temperature. They aid in retaining heat or cold so your dish will be ready to serve upon arrival.