A one-dish meal is a complete meal, protein, vegetables, and a starch, cooked and served together in a single pot, pan, or baking dish rather than as separate components. The approach favors efficiency: fewer pots to wash, less fuel or time spent, and better use of leftovers, which is why it has long been common in home cooking and remains popular for weeknight meals. Common examples include casseroles, stews, braises, curries, and combined rice or pasta dishes, made by sautéing the main ingredients, adding the rest, and simmering or baking until everything is cooked through. 'One-dish' is the broadest of three related terms: it covers baked casseroles as well as stovetop dishes, while 'one-pot' and 'one-pan' specifically describe the cooking vessel used.