Pork And Tomatillo Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring tender pork, tangy tomatillos, zucchini, and olives layered with tortillas, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry tortillas lightly in oil and drain.
- Wilt onion in oil. Add pureed tomatillos, mashed garlic, and a dash of salt. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Mix sour cream and chopped green chilies together and set aside.
- Butter a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Arrange alternate layers of tortillas, tomatillo sauce, chopped pork, sliced zucchini, sour cream mixture, and green olives until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sour cream mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using corn tortillas instead of flour. If tomatillos are not available, you can substitute with canned green salsa for a similar flavor. To enhance the dish, add some cumin or oregano to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a kick, use spicy green chilies instead. Make sure to drain the canned tomatillos well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Pork And Tomatillo Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of beans, such as those found in Beans Azteca, to round out the flavors. For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork And Tomatillo Casserole contains roughly 827 calories, with 14g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (273% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of pork?
If you prefer a different protein, shredded chicken or turkey can be used as a substitute for the pork. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider using black beans or lentils, which will provide a hearty texture and flavor. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly for the meat alternatives.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).