Cheesy Pork and Potato Bake Recipe

Looking for an easy, comforting dinner? This Cheesy Pork and Potato Bake combines tender pork, creamy potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese for a flavorful and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe uses everyday ingredients like Yukon potatoes, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream, making it an affordable and delicious choice. Whether you’re craving baked potatoes or a cheesy casserole, this dish hits all the right notes. With minimal prep and an irresistible golden crust, it’s a great way to enjoy pork recipes with a cheesy twist. Serve it with a side of pickled tomatoes or a green salad for the perfect dinner experience.

Ingredients:

• 3 lb Yukon or Russet potatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 Tbsp salt
• 3 to 5 Tbsp olive oil (for cooking pork, onion, and garlic)
• 1 lb pork (cut into small chunks)
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 Tbsp Mrs. Dash seasoning
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into large chunks and place them in a pot of cold water. Add 1 bay leaf and 1/2 Tbsp salt.
   • Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15 minutes on medium-high heat, or until they can be pierced with a fork but are not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
2. Cook the Pork:
   • While the potatoes cook, cut the pork into small chunks. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the pork for 7-10 minutes.
   • Halfway through, add 1 Tbsp of soy sauce and mix well. Once the pork starts to brown, remove it from the heat and set aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
   • Mince the garlic and sauté it in the same skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
   • Add more olive oil to the skillet and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, sautéed onion, garlic, fresh dill, heavy whipping cream, and Mrs. Dash seasoning. Gently stir everything together.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   • Transfer the potato mixture into a large rectangular baking dish. Top with the cooked pork.
   • Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
6. Add Cheese:
   • While the potatoes bake, shred the mozzarella cheese.
   • After 15 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
   • Set the oven to broil and return the dish to the oven for 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Your Cheesy Pork and Potato Bake is ready to serve! This dish pairs wonderfully with pickled tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

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Tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh dill and high-quality mozzarella cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until just fork-tender so they don’t become too soft during baking.
• Adjust the Pork: If you prefer leaner meat, swap pork for chicken or turkey.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork with plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh, for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Add Veggies: Add frozen peas or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Use cheddar or gouda cheese instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy profile.

FAQs:

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and pork the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake and add cheese when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Cheesy Pork and Potato Bake? Yes, it can be frozen. After assembling, cover tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the bake.
• Bread on the Side: Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and Hearty: This Cheesy Pork and Potato Bake is the perfect dish for cozy, family-style meals.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of creamy potatoes, savory pork, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Make: This simple recipe with minimal ingredients can be prepared ahead of time for a stress-free dinner.