Gratin

A gratin is a dish that is topped with cheese, or bread crumbs mixed with bits of butter, then heated in the oven or under the grill until brown and crisp.

The terms au gratin or gratinée refer to any dish prepared in such a manner.

Special round or oval gratin pans and dishes are ovenproof and shallow, which increases the surface area, thereby insuring a larger crisp portion for each serving.