Baked Pork Loin with Potato Crust and Yogurt Cheese Topping
Tender pounded pork loin steaks layered with shredded potatoes, caramelized onions, and a creamy mozzarella-yogurt mixture, then baked until golden. The potatoes form a crispy base while the cheese topping melts into the meat. Serve as a comforting weeknight dinner or casual weekend meal. This version combines Eastern European baking techniques with a tangy dairy topping that sets it apart from typical roasted pork preparations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Slice pork loin into 1-finger thick steaks.
- 2
Pound steaks with meat mallet until tender.
- 3
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- 4
Slice onion thinly.
- 5
Grate potatoes, soak in cold water 5 minutes, drain.
- 6
Grate mozzarella and mix with yogurt, mayonnaise, and mustard.
- 7
Layer drained potatoes in ovenproof dish.
- 8
Top with onion slices, then pork steaks.
- 9
Spread cheese mixture over top.
- 10
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes.
- 11
Remove foil and bake 20 minutes uncovered.
- 12
Serve hot.
Tips
Soak grated potatoes in cold water to remove starch, which helps them crisp up and prevents discoloration during baking.
Pound steaks evenly to ensure uniform cooking; thinner, tender meat absorbs the yogurt mixture flavors better.
Mix the cheese topping ingredients thoroughly so yogurt and mayo create a cohesive sauce rather than separating in the oven.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat covered at 160C for 15-20 minutes.
Assemble completely, cover, and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking. Add 5 minutes to baking time if starting cold.
Hot from the oven with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Pairs with light red wine or beer.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip the potato soaking to avoid gray-discolored, starchy potatoes.
Do not over-pound steaks to avoid dry, mushy texture.
Do not remove foil too early to avoid dried-out pork; second bake crisps the cheese.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this without the yogurt mixture?
Yes, omit the yogurt mixture and top with just mozzarella, or layer with sliced cheese and tomato. The result will be less creamy but still flavorful.
What if my pork steaks are thick?
Pound longer to tenderize. Alternatively, reduce oven time to 15-17 minutes per stage, checking internal temp reaches 65C for food safety.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Freeze up to 2 months wrapped tightly. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.