Baked Potato and Pork Casserole with Mozzarella, Veggies, and Creamy Garlic-Dill Sauce

This Baked Potato and Pork Casserole is a rich and hearty dish layered with fresh vegetables, seasoned ground pork, creamy mozzarella, and topped with a vibrant dill-garlic sauce. Combining the comfort of baked potatoes with the bold flavor of a savory meat and tomato filling, this recipe takes inspiration from traditional Eastern European baked dishes, adding a modern twist with fresh herbs, feta, and a creamy gherkin-based topping. Baked in two stages for perfect texture and flavor depth, it’s a complete meal that’s both rustic and refined—ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Eastern European / Fusion Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Base and Casserole:

• 2 medium fresh potatoes, peeled and sliced

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 carrot, grated

• 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 150 g mushrooms, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 400 g (14 oz) ground pork

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup (120 ml) tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• Salt, to taste

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika powder

• 30 g (1 oz) butter

• 1 egg

For the Creamy Garlic-Dill Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 gherkin, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

• 50 g (1.7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Place them in a bowl of cold water and soak for 15 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps the potatoes crisp up during baking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the grated carrot and cook for 2–3 more minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and chopped red bell pepper. Cook until soft and fragrant, then transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pork Filling
In the same skillet, add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add minced garlic, tomato paste, chopped dill, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir to coat evenly and let simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add 1 tablespoon of butter, stir to melt, and remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the First Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking dish with a little oil. Drain the soaked potato slices and layer them evenly on the bottom of the dish. Spread the sautéed vegetable mixture on top of the potatoes. Add the pork and tomato filling as the next layer. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.

Step 5: First Bake
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to bubble.

Step 6: Prepare the Egg Layer
Crack an egg into a small bowl and beat lightly. After the initial bake, remove the casserole from the oven and pour the beaten egg evenly over the top to help bind the layers.

Step 7: Final Bake
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes until the egg is set and the top is golden. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step 8: Prepare the Creamy Garlic-Dill Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped gherkin, minced garlic, dill, salt, black pepper, chopped green onions, and crumbled feta. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 9: Serve
Cut the baked casserole into portions and serve hot with a spoonful of the creamy garlic-dill sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 430

• Protein: 21g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 30g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 520mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

This dish is a modern evolution of classic Eastern European meat-and-potato casseroles. Recipes like moussaka, musaka, and potato gratins have inspired this layered creation. With the rise of comfort food culture and an emphasis on hearty, oven-baked meals, variations of this dish have gained popularity for their ease of preparation and satisfying depth of flavor. The creamy herb sauce adds a fresh, tangy component, setting it apart from traditional casseroles.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Hearty, filling, and family-friendly

• Balanced combination of carbs, protein, and vegetables

• Melty mozzarella and creamy sauce add luxurious texture

• Easy to customize based on what’s in your fridge

• Ideal for meal prep—tastes great reheated

• Beautifully layered presentation for serving guests

Health Benefits

• Potatoes provide fiber and potassium for heart health

• Ground pork offers protein and essential B vitamins

• Garlic and dill aid digestion and support immunity

• Vegetables contribute vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals

• Feta and green onions enhance calcium and folate intake

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of cucumber and tomato salad

• Serve with crusty bread or roasted vegetables

• A glass of red wine or chilled lemon water complements the dish

• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt as an alternative sauce

• Garnish with extra fresh dill or chives for visual appeal

Cooking Tips

• Don’t skip the soaking step for potatoes—this improves texture

• Cook the pork filling until thick to prevent a soggy casserole

• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results

• Let the casserole rest before slicing—it sets up and slices more cleanly

• Adjust salt based on your cheese and tomato paste’s salt content

Variations to Try

• Swap pork for ground beef, turkey, or chicken

• Add spinach or zucchini to the vegetable layer

• Make it vegetarian by replacing meat with lentils or sautéed mushrooms

• Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter, richer base

• Replace mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for deeper flavor

Conclusion

This Baked Potato and Pork Casserole with Mozzarella, Veggies, and Creamy Garlic-Dill Sauce is the kind of dish that brings comfort, warmth, and satisfaction in every bite. It’s the perfect mix of textures and flavors: from soft and savory potatoes to juicy tomato-pork layers, balanced with melted cheese and a tangy herb topping. Whether you’re looking for a one-dish family meal, something cozy for a rainy evening, or a make-ahead option for busy days, this recipe delivers on all fronts with flair and flavor.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes! Ground beef, turkey, or chicken are excellent alternatives to pork.

2. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake when ready to serve.

3. How long does it keep in the fridge?
It lasts 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly.

5. What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Cheddar, gouda, or Emmental work well. Mix cheeses for a deeper flavor.

6. Is the creamy sauce necessary?
It’s optional but adds amazing flavor. If skipping, consider serving with sour cream or tzatziki.

7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes. All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free—just verify your mayonnaise and feta labels.

8. Is it possible to make this casserole spicy?
Absolutely. Add chili flakes or chopped fresh chili to the pork filling for heat.

9. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or corn are great additions.

10. What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
Cover with foil and bake at 160°C (320°F) for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions on medium heat until warm.