movable feast:

HOST A
CASSEROLE SWAP!

Because they’re fantastically freezable, casseroles are best made in batches—one to eat and one to freeze for later. But why keep both of those Oven Chicken Risottos for yourself when you can share with friends and vice versa?

Mix up mealtime for everyone by hosting a casserole swap. Have guests bring two dishes—one to sample and one to swap—so everyone goes home with something new. Here’s how to dish it out, take it, and make it a night you’ll want to host again and again.

Two weeks before:

•Send out a list of casseroles across all categories: breakfast, chicken, beef, vegetarian, dessert, etc. Ask each guest to select one, bring one hot dish to sample, the same dish in frozen form, a serving spoon, and a recipe for the dish they made.

•Buy a cute serving spoon and oven mitt as an award for the favorite casserole of the night.

TIP: Experienced potluckers might have their own portable casserole cookware, but not everyone will be as prepared. Set all your guests up for success with this suggestion: Place two kitchen towels in a basket, put the dish on top, and add more towels on top to keep everything warm, steady, and ready during transport.

One week before:

•Plan your menu and grocery list—think light green salads, raw veggies, and warm bread. And don’t forget the drinks! Buy a few bottles of red and white wines, or create a signature cocktail—like sangria, punch, or lemonade—that’ll go with anything your guests may bring.

Night of:

•Warm up the oven for the arriving casseroles, greet guests, and start swapping! Ask guests to vote for their favorite and present the award to the winner.

QUICK TIP: While you’re straightening up the house, clear out the freezer to make room for all those frozen casseroles.