Rarebit and Au Gratin Dish, Casserole Dishes
Gratin dishes are serving and baking pieces that showcase a meal after cooking it. Rarebit and au gratin dishes are usually oval or round and frequently have protrusions on opposite sides that function as handles. More
Au Gratin Dishes: What You Need to Know
These oval baking dishes range in size from attractive, single-portion pieces to massive, table-serving ones, so every operator can find a piece that fits their business's needs. Rarebit dishes are named for the Welsh rarebit they traditionally served, but in practice, they're versatile dishes that can serve and display a wide array of menu items. The same goes for au gratin and any oval baking dish; while they carry the name of a specific food, creative chefs can take these dishes and craft eye-catching displays from all manner of culinary traditions.
Common Questions About Gratin Dishes
What is a rarebit dish?
The traditional dish Welsh rarebit lends its name to this style of dinnerware. Rarebit dishes are defined by their oblong shape, shallow depth, and protrusions that form handles on opposite ends of the basin. They can range from tiny 1-ounce models to large, multiple-serving 34-ounce options. Larger dishes are used to cook multiple portions of a meal but can still be used to serve food in a family-style, plate-sharing setting, while the smaller oval rarebits are intended to serve single portions of an order to individual guests.
The low-profile construction of oval rarebits enables chefs to showcase carefully crafted food without overwhelming the display. Consider the amount and style of food you plan on serving in these dishes and ensure your purchase is the right size to complement your menu.
An au gratin dish follows a similar style to a rarebit dish. They're low profile so cheese or breadcrumbs can be grated or sprinkled on top of the meal to cover a significant portion of the food. Gratin dishes are versatile, can work as serving or cooking vessels, and come in a variety of styles and materials.
What are gratin dishes made of?
The majority of our gratin dishes are made of aluminum, stainless steel, or ceramic. Ceramic gratin dishes come in multiple grades, from base ceramic to porcelain and China, with different grades suited to different tiers of restaurant formality. Most of our oval baking dishes are made of a material that can withstand cooking heat, but not all of them are. If you want to cook in these, don't purchase melamine products, as those are meant only for serving, not cooking. Consult the product specifications page for each item to ensure it'll meet your needs.