Pastelón de Yuca
Pastelón de Yuca is a savory, layered casserole from Puerto Rico, often compared to a lasagna or shepherd's pie. It features thinly sliced or mashed yuca (cassava) layered with a seasoned ground meat filling, typically beef or pork, and often includes cheese. This hearty dish is a beloved comfort food in Caribbean cuisine, especially during holidays and family gatherings.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in carbohydrates from the starchy yuca and also contains significant fat and protein from the meat and cheese. A typical serving provides a good source of energy, along with key nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and iron, with a calorie count roughly between 350 and 450 kcal per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Calcium | 110 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 4.0 mg |
Per 1 cup (220 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Yuca, the star ingredient, is a root vegetable that is a staple in many tropical diets and is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great alternative to traditional potato or pasta-based casseroles. Its preparation often involves a unique technique where the yuca is boiled, mashed, and then baked to achieve a firm, sliceable texture that holds the savory filling together.
