There’s something deeply comforting about making a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter in the kitchen. This Pastelon recipe does just that. If you’ve never heard of it, think of Pastelón as the Puerto Rican cousin of lasagna, only instead of pasta, it uses sweet, ripe plantains layered with savory seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese. It’s sweet, salty, and deeply satisfying in every bite.
This dish is perfect when you’re in the mood for something hearty and nostalgic. It fits beautifully into a Sunday dinner menu, a festive celebration, or even a creative weeknight meal when you want to impress. The flavor combination of caramelized plantains with savory beef and creamy cheese is completely irresistible.
Once you try this Pastelón recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved staple in many Caribbean homes. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and guarantees not a single leftover in sight.
Table of contents
Why This Pastelon Recipe Works So Well
What makes this Pastelón recipe stand out is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the ripe plantains, when pan-fried to golden perfection, contrasts beautifully with the well-seasoned beef picadillo. When all those flavors melt together in the oven with layers of cheese, the result is truly magical.
One of the keys to success is choosing the right plantains, look for yellow skin with plenty of black spots, which means they’re at peak sweetness. For the beef, I prefer using lean ground beef and simmering it with garlic, onions, sofrito, olives, and tomato sauce for depth and richness. Adding a touch of adobo or sazón seasoning gives it an unmistakable Puerto Rican flair.
You can absolutely tweak the recipe to fit your needs. Not eating red meat? Swap in ground turkey or lentils. Want a dairy-free option? Use plant-based cheese and skip the eggs. Vegetarian? Use a veggie picadillo instead. The recipe is flexible, so you can still capture the authentic essence of Pastelón with your own twist.
Plus, this recipe is make-ahead friendly. Assemble it in the morning and bake it just before dinner for a hassle-free evening meal. It also reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
My Favorite Pastelon Recipe
Pastelón Recipe
6-8
servings20
minutes50
minutes420
kcalDiscover the ultimate comfort food with this pastelón recipe, a Puerto Rican favorite. Layers of sweet plantains, seasoned ground meat, and gooey cheese come together in a perfect harmony of flavors. Sweet, savory, and irresistible—this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds!
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Ingredients
- For the Plantains:
6 ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- For the Meat Filling:
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ cup tomato sauce
¼ cup green olives (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
- Other Ingredients:
2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
3 large eggs, beaten
Directions
- Peel the ripe plantains and slice them lengthwise into thin strips.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, green olives, oregano, cumin, and paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer the plantain slices to cover the bottom. Spread half of the meat filling over the plantains and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with plantains on top.
- Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the pastelón to bind the layers.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the dish is bubbling.
- Allow the pastelón to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Ripe Plantains: Ensure the plantains are very ripe for the signature sweetness of pastelón.
- Cheese Choice: Mozzarella offers a mild creaminess, but cheddar provides a sharper contrast to the sweet plantains.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the pastelón ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving.
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Tips for Perfect Pastelon Recipe
- Perfectly Ripened Plantains: The sweetness of the dish depends on ripe plantains with black spots on the peel. Avoid green ones—they’re too starchy.
- Balanced Layers: Keep the plantain and meat layers evenly distributed for a consistent bite in every slice.
- Use Fresh Seasonings: Fresh garlic, onion, and spices elevate the flavor of the meat filling.
- Egg Wash Magic: Pouring the beaten eggs over the top ensures your pastelón stays intact and firm.
- Cheese Choices Matter: While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheddar and gouda for a richer flavor.
Delicious Variants of the Pastelón Recipe You Should Try
1. Vegetarian Pastelón
This version swaps out the meat for a hearty lentil picadillo made with green or brown lentils, bell peppers, onions, olives, and tomato paste. It’s just as satisfying and brings a wholesome, earthy flavor to the dish. Great for Meatless Mondays or when feeding a vegetarian crowd.
2. Pastelón with Cheese Sauce
Instead of using shredded cheese alone, some cooks prepare a light béchamel or cheese sauce to layer into the dish. This adds creaminess and richness, especially if you’re looking to elevate your presentation or want a lasagna-like texture.
3. Plantain-Free Pastelón
If ripe plantains aren’t available, some folks make a version using mashed sweet potatoes or yuca. This creates a slightly different flavor profile but still captures the sweet-savory combo that makes Pastelón unique.
4. Keto Pastelón
For a lower-carb twist, try layering thin slices of roasted zucchini or eggplant instead of plantains. Pair it with ground turkey and dairy-free cheese for a light yet flavorful dish that fits your lifestyle goals.
FAQs for Pastelon Recipe
Yes! Assemble the pastelón a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
Pastelón pairs beautifully with a side salad, white rice, or steamed vegetables.
Absolutely! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a fresh taste.
Use a non-stick skillet and ensure the oil is heated properly before adding the plantains.
Yes, as long as your ingredients (such as seasonings and tomato sauce) are certified gluten-free, pastelón is naturally gluten-free!
Health Benefits of Pastelón
- Rich in Fiber: The plantains in pastelón provide a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and heart health.
- Protein Boost: The ground meat (whether beef, turkey, or chicken) is an excellent source of protein, which helps in muscle repair and immune function.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Plantains are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and vitamin A, which supports skin health.
- Balanced Meal: Pastelón offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/8 of the entire dish)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Why You’ll Make This Pastelón Recipe Again and Again
This pastelon recipe has everything I love about a home-cooked meal—comfort, flavor, and just a touch of sweetness that makes it feel special. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something that feels like a celebration with every bite. Whether it’s your first time making it or you’re carrying on a family tradition, this dish always delivers.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can stick to the traditional version or make it your own with modern updates. Vegetarian, dairy-free, or mini pastelóns for individual servings, there’s a version for every cook and every occasion.
If you enjoyed this pastelón recipe, check out our equally delicious and unique Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe, a sweet and salty treat perfect for holidays or any occasion!
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