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Pastelon

This delightful Puerto Rican casserole layers sweet fried plantains with a savory seasoned meat filling for a comforting main dish perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3 ripe plantains
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Potato masher
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/4 inch thick pieces.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the plantain slices for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  3. In another skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef to the vegetables, season with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. In a baking dish, layer half of the fried plantains, spread the meat mixture on top, then cover with the remaining plantains. Pour beaten eggs over the layers and sprinkle with cheese if using.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Let the Pastelon rest for about 10 minutes after baking to ensure cleaner slices and better structure.