This Cauliflower and Minced Pork Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds: a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Combining the earthiness of cauliflower with savory minced pork, vegetables, and a gooey cheese topping, this casserole is sure to satisfy both meat lovers and vegetarians alike (if you choose plant-based meat). It’s an ideal dish for a cozy dinner, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit a variety of dietary preferences.
The cauliflower, which serves as the base of this dish, is blanched just enough to keep its texture intact, while the savory minced pork and vegetables cook to perfection with the rich addition of paprika and tomato sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar, this casserole is the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a delicious supper or a comforting side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower (about 700g), chopped into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon salt (for blanching cauliflower)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 300g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 100g grated cheddar cheese
- 100g grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) to preheat while you prepare the casserole. - Blanch the Cauliflower:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the chopped cauliflower florets and blanch for about 5 minutes. The cauliflower should be slightly tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside. - Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
- Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and transparent.
- Add the chopped carrot, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pan. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly.
- Add the minced meat to the pan and increase the heat to medium-high. Use a spoon to break up the meat and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of paprika and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a baking dish, arrange the blanched cauliflower florets in an even layer at the bottom.
- Top the cauliflower with the meat and vegetable mixture, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top, covering the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Conclusion:
This Cauliflower and Minced Pork Casserole is a hearty, filling meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender cauliflower, savory minced pork, and a creamy cheese topping makes it the perfect dish for a cozy evening with family or friends. It’s a comforting, well-rounded meal that’s full of vegetables, protein, and the rich taste of melted cheese.
For an added touch, serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to round out the meal. You could also pair it with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or something to impress guests, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.
Storage Information:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers that you’d like to save for later, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
Enjoy this comforting casserole as a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with loved ones.
