Few dishes capture the soul of Puerto Rican cuisine like pastelon recipe. Known as the Puerto Rican lasagna, this dish layers the tropical sweetness of ripe plantains with a hearty, savory ground meat filling and melted cheese, creating a masterpiece of contrasting flavors.
Imagine cutting into a golden-baked pastelón, its layers perfectly intact, as the aroma of caramelized plantains and seasoned beef fills the air. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply exploring new recipes, this dish is sure to wow your taste buds and impress your guests.
The beauty of this pastelón recipe lies in its versatility and heartwarming familiarity. It’s a meal that brings people together, steeped in culture and tradition. Ready to create your own slice of Puerto Rican heaven? Let’s dive in!
Pastelón Recipe
Difficulty: Medium6-8
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!
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.
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.
Recipe Variants
- Vegetarian Pastelón: Replace the meat with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. Add diced tomatoes for extra texture.
- Seafood Twist: Try a shrimp or crab filling seasoned with garlic and paprika for a unique coastal spin.
- Healthier Option: Bake or air-fry the plantains instead of pan-frying to reduce oil.
- Mini Pastelón Cups: Use muffin tins to create individual portions, perfect for parties and gatherings.
FAQ 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!
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!
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
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.
The pastelon recipe brings the authentic flavors of Puerto Rican comfort food to your kitchen, offering a wonderful blend of sweet plantains, savory seasoned meat, and melted cheese in each bite. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or you’re a long-time fan, this dish is a great way to bring warmth and joy to any meal.
The versatility of pastelón allows for endless variations, from vegetarian to seafood twists, and makes it an easy option for meal prep. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a true crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients and create a dish that will delight your family and friends.
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