This baked casserole is a cozy, layered combination of ground pork, seasoned potatoes, fresh herbs, and a rich cream-based sauce. Finished with a savory topping of sautéed bacon, mushrooms, garlic, onion, and grated Parmesan, this dish is the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a special weekend treat, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Cuisine: European rustic comfort food
Ingredients
For the Pork Mixture
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500 g (17.6 oz) ground pork
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1 egg
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp Provençal herbs
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2 tbsp breadcrumbs
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1/2 onion, finely chopped
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Olive oil, for sautéing
For the Potato and Sauce Layers
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5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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Salt, to taste
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3 tbsp sour cream
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240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
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1 tsp ground cilantro or coriander
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2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
For the Topping
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4–5 strips of bacon, chopped
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1/2 onion, finely chopped
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200 g mushrooms, sliced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tsp dried basil
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30–50 g grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Pork Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground pork with the egg, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Provençal herbs. Mix in breadcrumbs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and parsley. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is slightly sticky. Let it sit while preparing the other components so the flavors can meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Cream Sauce
Peel and slice the potatoes thinly using a knife or mandolin. Rinse in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat dry. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream and heavy cream. Season the cream mixture with salt, ground cilantro, and chopped fresh dill.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil. Start by layering half the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Spread the ground pork mixture evenly over the potatoes. Add the remaining potatoes on top of the meat. Pour the herb cream mixture evenly over the casserole, allowing it to soak between the layers.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the meat is cooked through. While the casserole bakes, prepare the topping.
Step 5: Prepare the Bacon-Mushroom Topping
In a skillet, sauté the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove excess fat if desired, then add minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook until softened. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Stir occasionally until the mixture is golden and fragrant.
Step 6: Top and Finish Baking
Remove the casserole from the oven. Discard the foil and spoon the bacon-mushroom mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 7: Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired. It pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 580 kcal
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Protein: 25 g
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Fat: 42 g
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Carbohydrates: 28 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sugar: 3 g
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Sodium: Moderate
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Cholesterol: 100 mg
Origins and Popularity
This rustic-style casserole combines culinary traditions from Central and Eastern Europe, where meat and potato dishes are staples in home kitchens. The addition of cream, dill, and mushrooms reflects the region’s love of rich, dairy-based sauces and forest flavors. Smoked paprika, Provençal herbs, and Parmesan add a Mediterranean flair, elevating the dish from simple to spectacular.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
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Hearty and satisfying for cold weather or family meals
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Layered textures from creamy potatoes, juicy pork, and crispy bacon
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Great for make-ahead meals or leftovers
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Customizable with different herbs or meats
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Perfect balance of creaminess, earthiness, and savory richness
Health Benefits
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Ground pork provides protein and iron
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Potatoes offer potassium and fiber
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Garlic, parsley, and dill aid digestion and immunity
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Mushrooms are low in calories and high in antioxidants
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Cream and Parmesan offer calcium and flavor in moderation
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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Add a side of pickled vegetables or sauerkraut
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Pair with a glass of dry white wine or light red
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Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce
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Enjoy with roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli
Cooking Tips
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Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for the best texture
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Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
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For extra flavor, marinate the pork mixture for 1–2 hours
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Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne to the cream for depth
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Let the casserole rest before slicing to keep the layers intact
Variations
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Vegetarian version: Use lentils or sautéed mushrooms instead of pork
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Cheesy version: Add mozzarella or cheddar to the layers
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes to the pork or mushroom mixture
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Lighter version: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream
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Low-carb option: Substitute thin zucchini slices for potatoes
Conclusion
This Baked Ground Pork and Potato Casserole is a complete and comforting meal that’s layered with flavor, texture, and heartwarming satisfaction. From the tender potatoes and herbed cream to the hearty pork base and savory mushroom-bacon topping, every bite offers a little of everything. Whether it’s a weekend dinner or a special meal to share, this casserole is a winner on all counts.
FAQ
1. Can I use ground beef instead of pork?
Yes, ground beef, turkey, or chicken all work well in this recipe.
2. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a spoonful of flour to thicken if needed.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
4. Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze baked portions. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
5. What type of mushrooms are best?
Button, cremini, or oyster mushrooms work great.
6. Can I skip the bacon?
Yes. Add extra mushrooms or caramelized onions for richness.
7. What cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?
Try Gruyère, cheddar, or pecorino for different flavor profiles.
8. How do I keep the cream from curdling?
Use full-fat cream and bake gently—avoid sudden high heat.
9. What herbs can replace dill or parsley?
Chives, tarragon, or basil are good substitutes.
10. Can I make it spicy?
Add hot paprika, chili flakes, or cayenne to the pork mixture or sauce.