Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to pop the dish in. If you’re using a convection oven, you can lower the temperature by about 20°F (10°C) for better results.

Coat your baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step not only prevents sticking but also gives your dish a nice, golden crust when it bakes.

Begin by layering your main ingredients, ensuring they’re evenly spread out in the pan. For this recipe, it’s key to keep everything in a single, even layer – it promotes even cooking. If you’re making a casserole or lasagna, don’t worry about perfection, but keep it balanced.

Sprinkle your seasonings over the layers – don’t skip this step! Seasoning at this stage enhances the flavors and makes the dish sing. Add herbs like thyme or oregano, depending on the flavor profile you’re after. You can also throw in some grated cheese for an extra layer of richness.

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you’re unsure, use a fork to check the softness of the ingredients. If they’re tender, it’s done!

After taking the dish out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices and makes serving much easier. Serve hot and enjoy!