Cooking Tip

Freezing Casseroles

To freeze a fully baked casserole...

• Begin by pre-lining your casserole dish with heavy-duty aluminum foil, leaving enough of an overhang on all sides of the casserole to cover and seal the food later.
• Assemble the casserole, laying it in the lined pan and bake the casserole as directed, then cool the casserole to room temperature.
• Put the casserole in freezer just until frozen (about 1/2 to 1 hour and it's not necessary to seal it up for this short freezing time).
• Once the casserole is frozen, use the excess foil overhang and seal airtight.
• Double wrap the foil wrapped casserole in freezer proof plastic bags, label, date it, then freeze the casserole until ready to use.
• Colors tend to fade in slow cooked foods, but garnishes such as chopped fresh parsley, chives, tomatoes, red peppers, cheese, or sour cream can add much visual appeal to your casserole.