Baked Pork and Vegetable Casserole with Parmesan Topping

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:

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.