If you’re anything like us, you’re frequently heading over to someone else’s home with a dish in hand, no matter the season. Lasagna, chicken enchiladas, brownies, sheet carrot cake . . . you name it. After all, there’s no better way to show up to a gathering than with something delicious that’s bound to get the party started. The problem? More often than not, that dish you worked so hard on arrives at its final destination cold — or worse, damaged while in route to the party.
Luckily, the days of wrapping up your foil-covered casserole in beach towels are over. We finally found a brilliant solution that not only keeps those precious homemade goods warm but also prevents it from spilling onto the backseat of your car. Meet the OXO Good Grips Insulated Bakeware Carrier, which is an editor-favorite item! It’s not totally surprising that OXO is behind this ingenious design, but you can still consider us wowed!
The carrier holds most 9″ x 13″ casserole dishes or baking pans (not just OXO brand, although their glass bakeware is one of our favorite lines) and keeps food hot and cold. We think you’ll find that this thing can (and should) be used all year round. Thanks to hardy foam insulation and aluminum fabric lining you can expect hours of hot — or cold— food. So whether you’ve got a long drive to your in-laws or having a midday picnic on the beach, this insulated carrier has you covered.
Our assistant shopping editor, Britt Franklin is still raving about this helpful buy after first introducing it to us during the holidays.”I love it because we’re the designated mac and cheese people for family get-togethers and holidays, and this carrier is a great size for a pan of mac and cheese, casseroles, and I’d even say a handful of smaller containers, too.” I mean, who doesn’t love versatility! We could totally see stashing a 9″ x 9″ pyrex of 7 layer dip and multiple other containers of carrots, celery, or chips. That sounds like a recipe for some serious snacking if you ask us!
Britt also highlighted the functionality of this food-travel essential: “The carrier is structured and insulated so it holds its shape and keeps the food warm, which is so helpful when traveling long distances. It also has carrying straps so I don’t have to worry about trying to balance it or finding a good grip on the dish handles.” She continues, “The carrier also has an extra pocket to hold any additional items, like utensils.” Extra pockets!? We didn’t think it could get any better.
To sum it up, she says, “It’s really well-made and easily one of my favorite kitchen buys I decided to get on a whim!” After reading this, I wouldn’t be surprised if everyone here on The Kitchn team owns one of these or has one waiting in their virtual shopping cart.
Oh and, Britt, if you’re reading this, we’re expecting some gooey mac and cheese, pronto.
Buy: OXO Good Grips Insulated Bakeware Carrier, $29.99
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