Delicious Peanut Casserole Recipe: A Unique Muffuletta Chew

If you’re looking for a dish that marries comfort and creativity, look no further than this Delicious Peanut Casserole Recipe, inspired by the classic Muffuletta sandwich. This casserole brings together the rich flavors of olives, meats, and cheeses, combined with the crunch of peanuts, for a truly unique culinary experience. Let’s dive into the delectable world of this savory dish that is sure to please any crowd!

Ingredients

To create this delightful peanut casserole that serves approximately 8-10 people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or shells work best)
• 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped
• 1 cup sliced green olives
• 1 cup sliced black olives
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup salami, diced
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped peanuts, green olives, black olives, diced ham, diced salami, cheddar cheese, provolone cheese, and mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Create the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Mix

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. The combination of creamy dressing and crunchy peanuts will create a delightful texture.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Pour the casserole mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality meats and cheeses for the best flavor. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
• Peanut Preference: You can use spiced peanuts or even honey-roasted peanuts for a sweet twist.
• Vegetarian Variation: Omit the meats and add additional chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or artichokes for a delicious vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this unique casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A light and refreshing white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, can also complement the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Peanut Casserole Recipe takes the beloved Muffuletta sandwich and transforms it into a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone going back for seconds!

For those looking to dive deeper into the culinary arts, consider exploring resources like Serious Eats for tips on ingredient substitutions and cooking techniques.

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