carmen’s abuela-inspired sweet plantain casserole
This dish takes me straight back to my Abuela’s kitchen in the Dominican Republic. It’s sweet, savory, and always the first to disappear at family gatherings. If you love sweet plantains, ground meat, and a cozy, comforting bite, this casserole is for you.
prep time
20 Min
cook time
25 Min
method
Bake
yield
serving(s)
Ingredients
- 4 - ripe plantains
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- - salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or queso
- 2 - eggs (optional)
How To Make carmen’s abuela-inspired sweet plantain casserole
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Step 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Step 2Peel plantains, cut into slices, and pan-fry in a bit of oil until golden and soft. Set aside on paper towels.
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Step 3In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until fragrant.
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Step 4Add ground meat, breaking it up while cooking. Season with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Step 5Stir in tomato paste and water. Simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
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Step 6In a greased baking dish, layer half the plantains on the bottom. Add all the meat filling, then cover with the rest of the plantains.
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Step 7Optional: Beat two eggs and pour over the top for structure.
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Step 8Top with cheese and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
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Step 9Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
- Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!
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