Ground Pork & Potato Casserole: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines savory ground pork with tender potatoes. This amazing recipe is perfect for both family dinners and gatherings. The balanced flavors and comforting textures of this casserole come together in a way that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. With layers of seasoned ground pork, creamy potatoes, and a delightful blend of spices, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

Imagine a hearty meal that requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor! Ground Pork & Potato Casserole does just that. Whether you’re a busy parent looking to feed your family something wholesome or hosting a dinner party, this dish is versatile enough to adapt to your needs. Trust me; once you've tasted this incredible combination of ingredients, you'll be coming back for seconds.

What’s more, this recipe is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping. This casserole doesn't just fill your stomach; it warms your soul. If you’re ready to discover a new favorite dish, let’s dive into why this Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is truly something special.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing the Ground Pork & Potato Casserole takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
• Resting Time: 5-10 minutes

This timing may vary slightly based on your kitchen equipment and experience, but this estimate serves as a good guideline.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is simple if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Pork: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Add Pork to Skillet: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Combine Soups: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth. This will serve as the creamy base for the casserole.
5. Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Top with half of the ground pork mixture, followed by half of the soup mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
6. Add Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer of the casserole.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
8. Uncover and Brown: After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
9. Let it Rest: Once fully cooked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added flavor and color.

Following these steps ensures a delicious Ground Pork & Potato Casserole that is both satisfying and comforting!

How to Serve

When it comes to serving your Ground Pork & Potato Casserole, consider the following tips for a memorable dining experience:

1. Presentation: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look or transfer to a decorative serving platter for a more polished presentation.
2. Side Dishes: Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty flavors of the casserole.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and additional flavor.
4. Temperature: This casserole is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature if leftovers are saved.
5. Beverage Pairing: Serve with a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea to elevate the meal.

By focusing on presentation and complementary sides, you can enhance your Ground Pork & Potato Casserole experience, making every meal special and enjoyable!

Additional Tips

• Don't Rush the Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest enhances the flavors and makes it easier to serve. The resting period helps the dish set, ensuring it holds together better.
• Use Fresh Potatoes: For the best texture, opt for fresh potatoes. Frozen potatoes may result in a watery casserole that lacks that creamy consistency.
• Experiment with Spices: The spices can be tweaked to fit your taste. Consider adding thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Top with Different Cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with cheeses such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variation

Try out these exciting variations of Ground Pork & Potato Casserole to keep things fresh and interesting:

1. Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add layers of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or corn for added nutrients and flavor.
2. Mexican Twist: Incorporate taco seasoning into the ground pork and top the casserole with diced tomatoes and black olives before baking.
3. Cheesy Broccoli Addition: Mix in steamed broccoli florets into the layers for a pop of color and nutrition.
4. Sweet Potato Substitute: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, more nutritious base.

Freezing and Storage

Properly storing your Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is key to enjoying it later:

• Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it's tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container.
• Freezing Method: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.

Special Equipment

To prepare the Ground Pork & Potato Casserole, you will need a few basic kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This is essential for layering your casserole.
• Skillet: Useful for browning the ground pork and sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining the soup and milk.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the potatoes and chopping the onions.
• Spatula: Helpful for breaking up the pork while cooking and serving the casserole.

Conclusion

The Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings warmth to your dining table. Its hearty combination of layers and flavors makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this casserole is bound to impress. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a cherished recipe in your household!