Cheese Casserole Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of Nicaragua’s diverse culinary heritage, bringing together sweet and savory elements in a harmonious dance of taste and texture. Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Nicaragua as you savor the delicious fusion of flavors in every bite. Join us in exploring the heart and soul of Nicaraguan cooking with our Savory Plantain and Cheese Casserole—a dish that encapsulates the essence of this Central American culinary gem.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup grated Nicaraguan cheese (queso seco)
• 1 cup crumbled queso fresco
• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Add the diced red bell pepper to the pan and cook until it’s tender.
4. Incorporate the shredded chicken and tomato sauce into the pan, stirring to create a savory mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced plantains on the bottom.
6. Spread half of the chicken and tomato sauce mixture over the plantains.
7. Sprinkle half of the grated Nicaraguan cheese and crumbled queso fresco over the layer.
8. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.
9. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Dive into the rich flavors of Nicaragua with every forkful of this Savory Plantain and Cheese Casserole, a culinary journey to the heart of Central America!