This hearty and delicious casserole features seasoned ground pork, layered with potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful Parmesan breadcrumb topping. It’s baked to perfection, offering a comforting dish that’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Pork Mixture:
- Ground Pork: 17.6 oz (500 g)
- Egg: 1 large
- Salt: To taste
- Dried Cilantro: 1 tsp
- Lemon Pepper: 1 tsp
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp
For the Vegetables:
- Potatoes: 17.6 oz (500 g), sliced thinly
- Additional Potatoes: 2, grated
- Carrot: 1, grated
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
For the Topping:
- Parmesan Cheese: 3.5 oz (100 g), grated
- Breadcrumbs: 2 tbsp
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Fresh Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Fresh Tomatoes: 2, diced
- Salt: To taste
- Dried Tomatoes: 1 tsp
Directions
- Prepare the Pork Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, egg, salt, dried cilantro, lemon pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Grate 2 potatoes and 1 carrot, and mix with minced garlic, chopped onion, and parsley.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 392°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer the thinly sliced potatoes at the base.
- Spread half of the pork mixture over the potatoes.
- Add the grated vegetable mixture on top.
- Repeat with another layer of pork and finish with a layer of grated Parmesan mixed with breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Drizzle the top with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the diced red bell pepper and fresh tomatoes until soft.
- Season with salt and dried tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the Sauce and Finish Baking:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the baked casserole and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh green onions and parsley. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes.
- Adjust seasoning in the pork mixture to your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the pork or topping.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pork: High in protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron.
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins and fiber.
- Parmesan: A good source of calcium and flavor.
Dietary Information
- Contains Gluten, Dairy, and Eggs.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A complete meal in one dish with protein, vegetables, and cheese.
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and vegetables.
- Comforting, hearty, and full of flavor.
Conclusion
This Baked Pork and Vegetable Casserole is a delightful combination of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. The golden Parmesan topping adds the perfect crunch, making this dish a family favorite. Try it today for a cozy and satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork? Yes, they work well as substitutes.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, replace the pork with lentils or a meat substitute.
- What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? Use any hard cheese like cheddar or gouda.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
- Can I skip the breadcrumbs? Yes, but they add a nice crunch to the topping.
- What other vegetables can I add? Try zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
- How do I reheat leftovers? Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Can I freeze the casserole before baking? Yes, assemble it, freeze, and bake from frozen, adding extra time.
- What can I serve with this dish? A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement it well.
- How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly? Slice them thinly and arrange in even layers.