This creamy and savory cassava bake is a surefire hit for dinner, combining the comforting flavors of cassava, a rich white sauce, mozzarella cheese, and crispy bacon. Follow these steps to create a dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped into dices
- 3 tablespoons wheat flour
- 600 milliliters milk
- 1 generous pinch of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 500 grams cooked cassava
- 200 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
- 100 grams fried diced bacon
Instructions:
1. Prepare the White Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and melt it over medium heat.
- Cook the Onions: Add the diced half of a medium onion to the melted butter. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Flour: Stir in 3 tablespoons of wheat flour, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually Add Milk: Slowly add 600 milliliters of milk to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Add a generous pinch of nutmeg and 1 teaspoon of salt to the sauce. Stir well to combine and enhance the flavor.
2. Assemble the Cassava Bake:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a medium glass baking dish, spread out 500 grams of cooked cassava. Ensure the cassava is evenly distributed to create a solid base for the dish.
- Add the White Sauce: Pour the white sauce over the cassava, spreading it evenly to cover all the pieces.
- Top with Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle 200 grams of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the cassava and white sauce. Then, add 100 grams of fried diced bacon, distributing it evenly for a perfect blend of flavors.
3. Bake the Dish:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
4. Serve:
- Enjoy: Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Cut into slices and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with the crispy bacon topping.
Cooking Notes:
- Cooking Cassava: If using fresh cassava, peel, cut, and boil until tender before adding it to the baking dish. If using frozen cassava, follow the package instructions for cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or a blend, for a unique flavor profile.
- Bacon Substitute: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy fried mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other root vegetables instead of cassava? Yes, you can substitute cassava with other starchy root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or parsnips.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it in a preheated oven until heated through and bubbly.
4. Is this dish gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
5. What can I serve with this dish? This creamy cassava bake pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats for a complete meal.
This creamy cassava bake with mozzarella and bacon is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner. With its rich white sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Try making this delightful recipe at home and share your experience! If you enjoy discovering and sharing delicious dinner recipes, leave a comment saying “I love comfort food” and share this with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
Enjoy creating and savoring this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying cassava bake, and delight in the rich flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser!
