This pork and potato casserole is a recipe I learned from a restaurant, and it has become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a rich, comforting dish that everyone loves. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 700 grams of pork (preferably shoulder or tenderloin), cut into pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 large potatoes, grated
- 150 grams of mozzarella cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons of cottage cheese
- 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of mustard
- 1 onion, sliced
- Olive oil for cooking
- Aluminum foil for baking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork:
- Start by seasoning the pork pieces with salt and black pepper to taste. Ensure that both sides are evenly seasoned by spreading the spices using your hands.
- Set the seasoned pork aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Grate the potatoes using a coarse grater. The grated potatoes should be fine enough to cook evenly but not too fine that they become mushy.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine 150 grams of grated mozzarella, 4 tablespoons of cottage cheese, 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of mustard.
- Mix these ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Prepare the Pan:
- Heat a bit of olive oil in a large, ovenproof pan over medium heat.
- Spread the grated potatoes evenly across the bottom of the pan.
- Add the sliced onion on top of the grated potatoes. This layering helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add the Pork:
- Place the seasoned pork pieces on top of the onion and potato layer in the pan.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the pork, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon to cover all the meat and vegetables. This mixture will melt and create a creamy, cheesy topping for the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil, ensuring that all corners are well sealed to keep the moisture in.
- Preheat your oven to 356 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius).
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This baking time allows the potatoes to cook through and the pork to become tender and juicy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the foil and let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Choice: While pork shoulder or tenderloin works best for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs or beef for variation.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for a unique flavor.
- Additional Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to make the casserole even more nutritious.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the seasoning by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or paprika for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein: The pork provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Dairy: The cheese and cottage cheese add calcium and other essential nutrients.
- Vegetables: Potatoes and onions contribute dietary fiber and various vitamins and minerals.
Final Thoughts:
This pork and potato casserole is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. The combination of tender pork, creamy cheese, and flavorful potatoes makes it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. It’s a great option for those days when you want to prepare something special without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious pork and potato casserole. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe, and see you in the next cooking adventure!
Thank you so much for following along. See you next time!
