Casserole Grande

Casserole Grande Recipe from Mexico - Pork Sausage, Cornmeal, Rice, and Cheddar

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Casserole Grande is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. This casserole is packed with flavorful ingredients like sausage, corn, rice, and cheese, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.

History

The origins of Casserole Grande are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States. This dish combines classic southern ingredients like cornmeal, sausage, and cheese to create a flavorful and filling casserole that is sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) pork sausage meat
0.5 cup cornmeal
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp baking soda
0.5 cup milk
1 beaten egg
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (8 oz or 227 g) cream style corn
0.25 cup chopped onion
0.25 cup chopped canned green chiles
2 tbsp diced pimento
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Cook the sausage until it is done, stirring often to crumble it.
Drain off all but 2 tbsp of the drippings and set them aside.
Sift the cornmeal, salt, and baking soda together into a mixing bowl.
Add the milk, egg, rice, corn, onion, chiles, pimento, cheese, and sausage to the bowl, stirring only to blend everything well.
Pour the mixture into a 10-inch oven-proof skillet or 1.5 dozen muffin tins that have been greased and sprinkled with cornmeal.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.

Variations

Substitute ground beef or turkey for the sausage.
Add in additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before adding it to the casserole mixture.

- Grease the skillet or muffin tins well to prevent sticking.

- Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences - you can add in additional vegetables or spices for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Casserole Grande with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use polenta or grits in place of cornmeal.

- Substitute canned or frozen corn for fresh corn.

- Use any type of cheese you prefer in place of cheddar.

Make Ahead Tips

Casserole Grande can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Casserole Grande with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Casserole Grande with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Casserole Grande can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Casserole Grande contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Casserole Grande contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Casserole Grande contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Casserole Grande contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Casserole Grande is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese, milk) and eggs.

Summary

Casserole Grande is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a family meal.

Summary

Casserole Grande is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. Packed with hearty ingredients like sausage, corn, rice, and cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Casserole Grande. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to spending time with her in the kitchen.

On this particular day, my aunt was preparing a special meal for a family gathering. She had pulled out a handwritten recipe card from her collection and began gathering all the ingredients. I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, seasoned meats, and mixed sauces together. The aromas that filled the kitchen were absolutely intoxicating.

As my aunt worked, she explained the history behind the recipe for Casserole Grande. She told me that it was a dish passed down from generation to generation in our family. Each cook had added their own twist to the recipe, making it truly unique and special. My aunt had learned how to make it from her mother, who had learned it from her mother before her.

I was fascinated by the idea of a recipe being passed down through the generations. It seemed like a secret code that only certain people were privy to. I wanted to be part of that tradition, to learn the recipe and be able to recreate it for my own family one day.

My aunt noticed my interest and invited me to help her prepare the Casserole Grande. I eagerly accepted, rolling up my sleeves and diving into the task at hand. Together, we chopped, stirred, and seasoned, working in perfect harmony. My aunt patiently taught me each step of the process, allowing me to make mistakes and learn from them.

After hours of preparation, the Casserole Grande was finally ready to be baked. My aunt placed it in the oven with a sense of pride, knowing that it would soon be enjoyed by our family. As we waited for it to cook, she shared more stories about the recipe and the memories she had associated with it.

When the Casserole Grande emerged from the oven, it looked and smelled absolutely divine. The golden crust was perfectly crisp, and the savory aroma that wafted through the kitchen made my mouth water. My aunt carefully served up generous portions to each family member, ensuring that everyone got a taste of her masterpiece.

As we sat around the table, digging into the Casserole Grande, I felt a sense of connection to my family and our shared history. The flavors exploded on my tongue, each bite a symphony of tastes and textures. I could see why this recipe had endured for so long, why it held such a special place in our family's heart.

That day, I made a promise to myself that I would continue the tradition of making Casserole Grande. I knew that one day, I would be the one passing down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren, just like my aunt had done for me. It was a responsibility I welcomed with open arms, knowing that it would keep our family connected for years to come.

And so, every time I make Casserole Grande now, I think back to that day in my aunt's kitchen. I remember the laughter, the stories, and the love that went into creating that delicious dish. It's more than just a recipe to me - it's a part of my heritage, a link to my past and a promise for the future. And I will cherish it always, just like I cherish the memories of that special day with my aunt.