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If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Cheesy Mustard Pork Bake is an excellent choice. Combining tender pork with a rich and creamy sauce made from tomato paste, sour cream, mayonnaise, and French mustard, this recipe is bursting with savory flavors. The addition of garlic and onions adds depth, while the melted cheese on top creates a delightful crust that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile—you can use any type of meat you prefer, making it a flexible option for different tastes. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Pork (or any meat of your choice) – 800 grams
Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon

Sour cream – 2 tablespoons
Mayonnaise – 1 tablespoon
Onions – 2 medium-sized

French mustard – 2 teaspoons
Garlic – 2 cloves
Cheese – 150 grams (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)

Ground black pepper – to taste
Salt – to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish

Steps:

1. Prepare the Meat:

Slice the Pork: Cut the pork into medallions or thin slices, about 1-1.5 cm thick. This helps the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the marinade.
Tenderize (Optional): If desired, use a meat mallet to gently tenderize the pork slices. Place the meat between two pieces of plastic wrap to prevent mess.

Season the Meat: Sprinkle both sides of the pork slices with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Set aside while you prepare the marinade.

2. Prepare the Marinade:

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and 2 teaspoons of French mustard.

Add Garlic: Finely mince the 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth sauce.

3. Marinate the Meat:

Coat the Pork: Place the seasoned pork slices into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. You can do this in a shallow dish or a sealable plastic bag.

Marinate: Allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For deeper flavor, you can marinate it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.

4. Prepare the Onions:

Slice the Onions: Peel and cut the 2 onions into thin rings or half-rings, depending on your preference.

Sauté the Onions (Optional): For a sweeter flavor, you can sauté the onions in a little oil over medium heat until they become translucent. This step is optional but adds extra depth to the dish.

5. Assemble the Dish:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, arrange the marinated pork slices in a single layer.
Add Onions: Spread the sliced onions evenly over the top of the pork.
Add Remaining Marinade: If there’s any leftover marinade, drizzle it over the onions and pork.

6. Bake the Dish:

Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Cheese: While the dish is baking, grate 150 grams of cheese and set it aside.

Remove Foil and Add Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.
Continue Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the pork is cooked through.
Check for Doneness: You can check if the pork is done by cutting into a piece to see if it’s no longer pink inside, or by ensuring the internal temperature has reached 70°C (158°F) using a meat thermometer.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Rest the Meat: Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat.
Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top for added color and flavor.

Serve: Serve hot alongside your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

This is an approximate calculation based on dividing the dish into six servings.

Calories: 380 kcal

Protein: 35 grams
Carbohydrates: 5 grams
Fat: 24 grams

Saturated Fat: 10 grams
Cholesterol: 110 mg
Sodium: 600 mg

Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 3 grams

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with chicken breast, turkey, beef, or even fish like salmon. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.

2. What can I substitute for French mustard?

If you don’t have French mustard, you can use Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard. These will provide a similar tangy flavor to the dish.

3. Is there an alternative to mayonnaise in the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or additional sour cream. This will maintain the creaminess of the marinade while slightly altering the flavor.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Certainly! You can add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the baking dish for a more complete meal. Layer them along with the onions over the pork.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Mustard Pork Bake:

Choose the Right Cut: If using pork, cuts like tenderloin or loin chops work best due to their tenderness.
Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the meat for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Even Slicing: Ensure the meat slices are of equal thickness to promote even cooking.

Cheese Selection: Use a cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses, for a gooey topping.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the dish during the final baking stage to prevent the cheese from burning and the meat from drying out.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the marinade before adding raw meat to adjust salt, pepper, or mustard levels to your preference.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Consume within 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pork bake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 170°C (338°F) until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent drying out.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Mustard Pork Bake is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, it offers a satisfying and delicious meal that’s both hearty and elegant. The combination of tender meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different meats or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own. Enjoy this flavorful bake, and savor the compliments from those you share it with!