This Cheesy Minced Pork and Potato Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that combines hearty minced pork, creamy potatoes, and rich mozzarella, all baked to perfection. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that brings the homely warmth of a well-prepared casserole to your dining table.
The layers of tender potatoes, savory pork, and gooey cheese create a delightful texture and flavor that make this dish a favorite for family dinners. It’s versatile enough to be a weeknight staple or a special weekend treat, ensuring that once you try it, it will become a regular in your meal rotation.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 raw sweet red pepper, chopped
- 1 kg minced pork
- 300 g canned green peas, drained
- 300 g tomatoes in their own juice, chopped
- 1 chicken egg
- 100 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt, meat seasoning, dried ground sweet paprika to taste
- Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large frying pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and sweet red pepper. Cook until softened.
- Add the minced pork to the pan and cook until browned. Season with salt, meat seasoning, and paprika.
- Stir in the tomatoes and green peas. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Season with salt.
- Spread the minced meat mixture over the potatoes.
- Top with the remaining potato slices and season with salt.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and pour it evenly over the top layer of potatoes.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 80 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
- Minced Pork: The star of the dish, providing a robust and meaty foundation. Pork pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of garlic, paprika, and the herbs used, making it a versatile base for the casserole.
- Potatoes: Sliced thinly, they layer into the casserole to absorb the juices and flavors from the pork and seasonings, becoming tender and flavorful.
- Mozzarella Cheese: When melted, mozzarella provides a creamy, gooey topping that browns beautifully under the broiler, adding a visually appealing golden crust to the dish.
Cooking Techniques That Make a Difference
- Layering: The technique of layering the ingredients allows each slice of potato and each bit of pork to meld together, creating uniform flavor and texture throughout.
- Baking: Slow-baking allows the ingredients to cook evenly and meld their flavors, while a final broil ensures a crispy, cheesy topping that is irresistible.
Nutritional Profile
This dish provides a good balance of protein from the pork, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and fats from the cheese and oil, making it a fulfilling meal. To boost the nutritional value, one could add a layer of mixed vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or bell peppers between the meat and potato layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad to add a fresh contrast to the meal. For a lighter version, consider substituting the pork with turkey or chicken mince, and using a part-skim mozzarella.
Why It’s a Must-Try Recipe
- Comforting: It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or when you need a dish that feels like a warm embrace.
- Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with adults and children alike, making it a great choice for family meals.
- Leftovers: It reheats well, ensuring that this dish is just as delicious the next day.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Minced Pork and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something incredibly satisfying and delicious. It’s a testament to the power of traditional comfort food to bring people together and make any meal feel special. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe promises to deliver taste and comfort with every bite.