Abstract: A method for preparing and packaging a ready-made dish. The method includes: placing a first food item in a container; placing a second food item in the container in such a way that the second food item is situated above the first food item; placing a sauce or a gravy in the container so that the sauce or the gravy is situated beneath the first food item or mixed with the first food item without being in contact with the second food item before and during the heating process; carrying out the hermetic vacuum sealing of the container; heating the food contents of the closed container, the container remaining without movement during the heating step.