Name: Hearty Harvest: The Ultimate Ground Pork and Cheesy Potato Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) lean ground pork, for best flavor (Ground beef or a mix of pork and beef can be used); 4 medium-sized Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick; Yukon Gold potatoes also work well); 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh; 1 ½ cups (about 6 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (shredding your own melts better; Monterey Jack or Colby cheese are great alternatives); 1 cup whole milk, or 2% milk (Heavy cream can be used for an even richer sauce); 1 cup unsalted chicken broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon dried thyme (Fresh rosemary or sage can replace thyme for a different flavor profile); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully for extra crispiness), optional, for topping

Do you remember those chilly evenings when the aroma of something truly comforting filled the air, promising warmth and satisfaction? For me, that memory often leads back to a bubbling casserole, brimming with hearty ingredients and the promise of pure joy. This Ground Pork and Cheesy Potato Bake is precisely that kind of dish – a culinary hug in a baking dish, designed to gather loved ones around the table and create new, cherished memories.This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome flavors elevated to gourmet status. We’re talking about layers of thinly sliced, tender potatoes, perfectly seasoned ground pork, all nestled in a rich, creamy, and savory sauce. Each bite delivers that irresistible combination of tender meat, soft potatoes, and gooey, melted sharp cheddar cheese, culminating in a gloriously crispy, golden-brown breadcrumb topping. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that speaks directly to the soul, making it an instant family favorite that everyone will adore.Rooted deeply in classic American comfort food traditions, this bake offers a hearty and satisfying meal without any fuss or complicated techniques. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a dependable, delicious solution, special Sunday dinners, or even community potlucks where you want to impress with minimal effort. The true beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward approach, allowing you to create something truly spectacular and deeply comforting with everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. Get ready to dive into a dish that’s as comforting to make as it is to eat, promising smiles and full bellies all around. Let’s get cooking and bring this deliciousness to life!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound (450g) lean ground pork, for best flavor (Ground beef or a mix of pork and beef can be used)
4 medium-sized Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick; Yukon Gold potatoes also work well)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced fresh
1 ½ cups (about 6 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (shredding your own melts better; Monterey Jack or Colby cheese are great alternatives)
1 cup whole milk, or 2% milk (Heavy cream can be used for an even richer sauce)
1 cup unsalted chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme (Fresh rosemary or sage can replace thyme for a different flavor profile)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully for extra crispiness), optional, for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

**Prepare Your Baking Dish:** Preheat your oven to a welcoming 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This crucial step prevents sticking and ensures a clean release of your delicious casserole.

Jump to Recipe Save Recipe

Step 2

**Brown the Pork Perfectly:** In a large, sturdy skillet, brown the ground pork over medium heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spoon. Season generously with ½ teaspoon each of salt, pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Continue to cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink and beautifully crumbly. Drain any excess grease to avoid a soggy casserole, then remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3

**Sauté Aromatics:** Using the same skillet (don’t clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and turned translucent and the garlic is fragrant – be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4

**Create a Roux:** Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the softened onion and garlic. Stir constantly for about 1 minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a ‘roux,’ which will be the base for our luscious, thick sauce.

Step 5

**Whisk in Liquids & Thicken Sauce:** Slowly and gradually whisk in the 1 cup of unsalted chicken broth, followed by the 1 cup of whole milk. Continue to whisk vigorously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, whisking often, until the sauce thickens to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned before layering.

Step 6

**First Layer of Goodness:** Arrange half of your thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Overlap them slightly if needed to cover the base. Evenly spread half of the cooked, seasoned ground pork over the potato layer.

Step 7

**Sauce and Cheese Application:** Pour half of your wonderfully creamy, thickened sauce evenly over the pork and potatoes. Then, sprinkle ¾ cup of the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese over this layer. This creates a delicious melty stratum within the casserole.

Step 8

**Repeat the Layers:** Now, repeat the entire layering process! Add the remaining half of the sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the seasoned ground pork. Pour the remaining half of the sauce over everything, and finally, sprinkle with the last ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 9

**Optional Crispy Topping:** If you desire an extra golden, crispy finish, sprinkle the ½ cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top layer of cheese. This adds a delightful textural contrast.

Step 10

**Bake to Perfection:** Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps the potatoes steam and become tender. Bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, the sauce is bubbly, and the cheese topping (and breadcrumbs, if used) is beautifully golden brown.

Step 11

**Rest Before Serving:** Allow the casserole to rest uncovered for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to set slightly, making for neater portions. Enjoy your hearty homemade meal!

Chef’s Tips & Variations

Achieving casserole perfection is simpler than you think with a few professional touches. First, ensure your potatoes are sliced uniformly thin; a mandoline slicer is a game-changer here, as even slices cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others are mushy. Second, don’t skip draining the fat from the ground pork; too much grease can make your casserole heavy and oily. Lastly, taste and adjust your sauce seasoning before layering – it’s your main flavor carrier, so make sure it sings!For delightful variations, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced bell peppers or a handful of frozen peas during the layering steps for added vegetables and color. You could also swap out the cheddar for a smoky Gruyere or a spicy pepper jack cheese to introduce new flavor dimensions. For a richer topping, melt a tablespoon of butter and toss it with your breadcrumbs before sprinkling; this guarantees an even crispier, golden crust. This casserole is fantastic on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some steamed green beans for a complete meal. You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking from cold. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and it reheats wonderfully in the microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of potatoes for this casserole?

Yes, while Russet potatoes are excellent for their starchiness which helps thicken the sauce, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well, offering a slightly creamier texture. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they tend to hold their shape too much and won’t absorb the sauce as effectively.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add a kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into your ground pork seasoning. You could also use a pepper jack cheese in your layers, or stir in a dash of hot sauce into your creamy sauce.

What if my sauce isn’t thickening?

If your sauce seems too thin after simmering, you can make a quick slurry by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water. Whisk this into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Bake it completely, let it cool entirely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven until warmed through.

Is it necessary to drain the fat from the ground pork?

Yes, it is highly recommended to drain the excess fat. Too much grease can make the casserole oily and heavy, and prevent the sauce from properly emulsifying and coating the other ingredients.