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Homemade Pastelon de Yuca (Cassava and Chicken Casserole) photo

Pastelon de Yuca (Cassava and Chicken Casserole)

This Pastelon de Yuca is a comforting casserole with creamy yuca and savory chicken filling that will wow your family!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound yuca (cassava) peeled and washed
  • 1 cup milk whole or skim
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter for the yuca mixture
  • 1 medium egg acts as a binding agent
  • 1 teaspoon salt for seasoning
  • Creamy chicken filling made with chicken, spices, and vegetables
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter for sautéing the chicken
  • 2 cups grated mozzarella for topping

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Casserole dish
  • Potato masher
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and washed yuca and cook until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, drain and let it cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked yuca, milk, salted butter, egg, and salt. Use a potato masher to mash the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown. Stir in your choice of vegetables and seasonings. For a deliciously creamy filling, add a splash of milk or a dollop of cream at the end of cooking.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, spread half of the yuca mixture evenly on the bottom. Layer the creamy chicken filling on top, then cover with the remaining yuca mixture.
  5. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, gooey layer once baked.
  6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the yuca is completely cooked before mashing; undercooked yuca can be tough.
  • Feel free to customize the chicken filling with your favorite spices or add-ins like olives or cheese.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
  • This dish is perfect for meal prep; simply store the assembled casserole in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.