Emergency Casserole
A hearty, simple casserole featuring tender pork chops layered over cabbage, potatoes, and onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the chopped cabbage, sliced potatoes, and sliced onion in a bowl.
- Place the mixture into a 2 or 3-quart casserole dish.
- Arrange the pork chops on top of the vegetable mixture.
- Add salt, pepper, and water over the ingredients.
- Cover the casserole dish with a lid or foil.
- Bake until the pork chops are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier casserole, consider adding some grated cheese on top before baking. You can substitute the pork chops with chicken or turkey for a lighter option. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or leftover meat works well. To enhance the flavor, add garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary. A splash of broth instead of water can add depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of Green Beans And Bacon for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavors when serving. For a complete dinner, consider serving with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture while heating for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Emergency Casserole contains roughly 492 calories, with 8g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), potassium (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in this casserole. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dish. This will help maintain the texture of the casserole and prevent it from becoming too watery during baking.
How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the pork chops are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, as this will help ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).