Romanian Noodle and Pork Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the rich culinary landscape of Romania through this hearty and satisfying dish—Romanian Noodle and Pork Casserole. This recipe embodies the comforting essence of traditional Romanian cuisine, combining savory ground pork with tender egg noodles, layered with a luscious egg and cheese mixture, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or as a make-ahead meal, this casserole offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. At Love With Recipes, we cherish recipes that bring warmth and joy to your table, and this Romanian delicacy is no exception. Its aroma, taste, and visual appeal make it an irresistible choice for anyone seeking a delicious, filling meal that celebrates authentic Eastern European flavors.

Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork for beating eggs
• Baking dish or casserole pan (approximately 9×13 inches)
• Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Tags

Comfort Food, Romanian Cuisine, Baked Pasta, Pork Recipes, Easy Dinner, Family Favorite, Hearty Meal, Traditional Dish

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6 generous servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. Adjust portion sizes as needed for larger or smaller groups.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While the steps are straightforward, attention to layering, seasoning, and baking are key to achieving the perfect casserole. It’s suitable for cooks with some experience in baking and sautéing.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Contains dairy and eggs; suitable for omnivores. Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets unless modifications are made.

Course

Main Course / Comfort Food

Cuisine

Romanian / Eastern European

Ingredients

Ingredient Table

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the water. Once boiling, add the wide egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, generally 8-10 minutes, until they are al dente—tender but still with a slight firmness to the bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set aside in a large mixing bowl or on a clean plate, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Cook the Pork

While the noodles are boiling, preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or use a non-stick pan. When hot, add the ground pork, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned evenly and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat carefully, especially if using higher-fat pork, to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy. Return the cooked pork to the pan.

Step 3: Add Flavor to the Pork

To the cooked pork, add the finely chopped leek and fennel seeds. Sauté together over medium heat for an additional 3-4 minutes until the leek becomes translucent and fragrant. This step infuses the meat with aromatic flavors characteristic of traditional Romanian seasoning. During this process, stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. The fennel seeds release their essential oils, imparting a subtle licorice-like aroma that complements the richness of the pork.

Step 4: Season the Pork Mixture

Stir in the chopped parsley, and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, keeping in mind that the cheese and eggs added later will contribute saltiness and richness. The combination of herbs and fennel seeds creates a well-rounded flavor profile that balances savory, aromatic, and slightly sweet notes. Once seasoned, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Spread a layer of cooked noodles evenly across the bottom of the dish. Follow with a layer of the cooked pork mixture, ensuring even distribution. Repeat the layering process, ending with a final layer of noodles on top. This layering technique ensures that each slice contains a harmonious blend of noodles and pork. Press down gently to compact the layers slightly, which helps the casserole hold together nicely when sliced.

Step 6: Prepare Egg and Cheese Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly with a whisk or fork. Pour in the milk and add the grated hard cheese, mixing until smooth and well combined. This mixture will act as a creamy binder and add richness to the casserole. If you prefer a more cheesy topping, reserve some grated cheese for sprinkling on top before baking.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Evenly pour the egg, milk, and cheese mixture over the layered casserole, ensuring all parts are coated. Distribute small pieces of butter across the surface to melt during baking, which will create a golden, crispy top. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. Check for doneness by observing a golden-brown crust on top and bubbling edges. If the top isn’t golden enough, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or grated cheese if desired. Slice into portions and serve hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes.

Preparation Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese for optimal flavor and melting quality.
• For a more intense fennel flavor, lightly toast fennel seeds before adding them to the pork.
• If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture.
• For a gluten-free variation, substitute traditional egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a browner, more textured top, sprinkle additional grated cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
• To enhance flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pork mixture.
• Use fresh herbs whenever possible—dried herbs can be substituted but will alter the flavor profile slightly.
• Leftover casserole can be reheated in the oven or microwave; cover with foil to retain moisture during reheating.

Add-ons

• Chopped cooked mushrooms or sautéed bell peppers for added vegetables
• Crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella as alternative cheese options
• Fresh dill or basil for a different herbaceous twist

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Crusty Romanian or French bread to soak up the casserole
• Pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast
• Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or green beans

Improvements

• Incorporate sautéed spinach or kale into the layers for added nutrients and color.
• Replace the milk with sour cream or yogurt for extra tang and creaminess.
• Use different cheeses such as Gruyère or Asiago for nuanced flavor variations.
• Make a vegetarian version by substituting pork with mushrooms or lentils and using vegetable broth.

Save and Store

Leftover casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For best flavor and texture, reheat gently to avoid drying out the dish.

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of pork?

Yes, ground beef can be substituted in this recipe for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time accordingly as beef may require a slightly longer browning period.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap out traditional egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options. Make sure to check the labels for gluten content.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the pork with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based grounds. Use vegetable broth and seasonings to enhance flavor.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika to the pork mixture to increase heat levels to your liking.

Conclusion

This Romanian Noodle and Pork Casserole is a testament to the comforting power of simple ingredients transformed through thoughtful layering and baking. Its aromatic profile, hearty texture, and delightful cheesy crust make it a perennial favorite for both casual family dinners and special occasions. With the flexibility to customize ingredients and flavors, it invites creativity while maintaining its traditional roots. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. At Love With Recipes, we believe in sharing recipes that nourish not just the body but also the spirit—this casserole does exactly that. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a taste of Romanian culinary heritage today.

References

• Romanian Culinary Traditions by Maria Popa (2010)
• Eastern European Comfort Food Classics by Ivan Ivanov (2015)