Casserole > Canadian > Quebec

Cretons Casserole Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, ketchup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Add the beaten eggs and mix again.

4. Transfer the mixture to a skillet and cook over medium heat until the pork is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

5. Transfer the pork mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve hot.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 23g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground pork can be substituted with ground beef or turkey.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- Milk can be substituted with almond milk or soy milk.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the pork mixture for added nutrition.
- Top the casserole with sliced tomatoes or bell peppers before baking for added color and flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to fully cook the pork mixture before transferring it to the baking dish.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the pork mixture from sticking to the bottom.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the casserole on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.

Garnishes:
- Garnish the casserole with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Pairings:
- Serve the casserole with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with almonds
- Garlic mashed potatoes

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the casserole is too dry, add a splash of milk or chicken broth before baking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to fully cook the pork to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
- Cretons is a traditional French-Canadian pork spread that is often served on toast for breakfast. This casserole is a modern twist on the classic dish.

Flavor profiles:
- The Cretons Casserole is savory and slightly spicy, with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the casserole as a main dish for dinner or as a hearty breakfast or brunch dish.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herby, Rich, Meaty