Cazuela de Maduro y Queso
A sweet and savory baked casserole from Ecuador, featuring layers of ripe plantains (maduros) and cheese, often enriched with a creamy sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 large Ripe plantains (maduros)
- 300 g Queso fresco or farmer's cheese(crumbled)
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Sugar(optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 2 tbsp Butter(melted, for greasing and drizzling)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter.
- 2
Peel the ripe plantains and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange half of the plantain slices in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the plantains are very ripe (dark yellow to black skin) for maximum sweetness and softness. - 3
Sprinkle half of the crumbled cheese over the plantain layer. If using sugar, sprinkle half of it over the cheese.
- 4
Layer the remaining plantain slices on top of the cheese. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over this layer. If using sugar, sprinkle the remaining half.
- 5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish.
- 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set, golden brown on top, and the plantains are tender.
💡 Tip: You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean. - 7
Let the cazuela cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
💡 Tip: This dish is delicious on its own or can be served as a side dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a touch of nutmeg to the egg and milk mixture.
- ✓If you don't have queso fresco, a mild feta or ricotta can be substituted, though the flavor profile will change.
- ✓Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a layer of cooked shredded chicken or pork for a more substantial meal.
- Incorporate a few tablespoons of raisins or chopped nuts into the cheese layer.
- For a sweeter version, use more sugar and a drizzle of honey or condensed milk on top before baking.