The culinary phrase refers to a specific type of layered baked pasta dish, traditionally featuring ground meat, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and tomato sauce, often associated with idealized portrayals of domesticity and comfort. For example, an individual might search online for guidance to prepare this quintessential dish for a family gathering.
This particular style of casserole holds significance due to its position as a symbol of family meals and home-cooked experiences. Its appeal is rooted in its customizable nature and the sense of tradition it often evokes. Recipes for it have been passed down through generations, adapting over time to reflect evolving tastes and available ingredients.