A system for support and securement of a thermal heating panel of a carousel oven upper a rotational axle includes a flat upper receiver formed of several diametric strips. The upper receiver is proportioned for complemental receipt of the heating panel. At, or integrally secured to, the bottom of the upper receiver, and situated polarly symmetrically about the axle, is a cradle proportioned for complemental fit upon a male drive shaft at an uppermost end of the axle. Due to the weight of the heating panel and its slow rate of rotation within the carousel oven, the force of gravity of the heating panel is sufficient to maintain the upper receiver and its cradle upon the male drive plate even in the absence of positive securement between the elements. Alternatively, the heating panel is entirely replaced by a grill-like surface, secured above or below the diametric strips to permit the grilling of types of meat or food other than those typically cooked upon the thermal plate panel. In to the grill-like surface may be formed pie-like recesses into which pods are placed, each provided with different quantity or type of food.