Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This hearty casserole combines tender ground pork with creamy potatoes and a rich cheese layer, creating an incredible flavor explosion in every bite. Each serving not only warms the soul but also satisfies your cravings, making it perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. If you’re looking for a new family favorite, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

This casserole is not just another meal; it’s an experience packed with texture and taste. Imagine golden, crispy potatoes resting under a blanket of cheesy goodness, complemented by the savory notes of ground pork. Each bite delivers comfort, warmth, and satisfaction, making you feel right at home. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is the go-to meal ready to steal the show.

Let’s explore what makes this casserole so special, why it’s adored by many, and how simple it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to achieve amazing results here. With a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dish right out of the oven. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this amazing recipe that will keep your family asking for seconds!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a quick overview of the time involved:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes

This timeline may vary slightly based on your cooking speed and familiarity with the recipe, but it provides a solid framework to guide you.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pork: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork and chopped onion, cooking until the pork is browned and the onion is soft. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
4. Layer the Potatoes: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom.
5. Add the Meat: Spread half of the cooked pork mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the cream mixture. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, pork mixture, cream mixture, and finish with the last half of the cheese.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook thoroughly.
8. Uncover and Brown: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Cool Slightly: Once done, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set.
10. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and serve warm.

These detailed steps will guide you to create your very own Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole with ease and confidence.

How to Serve

To make the most of your Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole, consider the following serving suggestions:

1. Presentation: Use a large serving spoon to ladle portions onto plates, showcasing the cheesy layers and hearty ingredients.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. A light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole wonderfully.
3. Portion Sizes: Serve generous portions but keep them manageable. People often appreciate the chance to go back for seconds without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Beverage Pairing: Consider serving with a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a delightful combination.

Elevating the serving experience adds a special touch that makes sharing this delicious dish even more enjoyable!

Additional Tips

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to incorporate your favorite spices for added flavor. Paprika or cumin can give a nice kick to your ground pork.
• Opt for Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, consider using mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Use a Mandoline Slicer: To save time and ensure even slicing, consider using a mandoline slicer for your potatoes.
• Add a Crispy Topping: If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before the final bake.

Recipe Variation

There are many ways to customize the Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole to suit your family's preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Vegetable Medley: Mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers between the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
2. Southwestern Style: Add black beans and corn to the pork mixture and sprinkle some taco seasoning for a southwestern flair.
3. Loaded Baked Potato Version: Add crispy bacon bits and sliced green onions to the layers for a loaded baked potato twist.
4. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the meat mixture for an aromatic touch.

Freezing and Storage

Proper storage will keep your Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole fresh for longer. Here’s how to do it:

• Storage: After cooking, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To do this, ensure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Special Equipment

To prepare the Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole, you'll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Large Skillet: For cooking the ground pork and onions.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the cream mixture.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for layering your casserole.
• Sharp Knife or Mandoline: For slicing the potatoes thinly.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish while baking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Pork & Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that delights both the palate and the soul. Its easy preparation, hearty ingredients, and creamy, cheesy goodness make it a perfect option for busy families and gatherings alike. By following the tips and variations shared in this guide, you can create a casserole that fits your taste preferences and stands out on any table. Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful recipe!