Layers of rice, potatoes, and mussels bake together in this rustic one-pot Pugliese casserole. A comforting mediterranean family meal with balanced macros for a 1500 calorie plan.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle a 9x13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
Shuck the mussels, reserving their liquor in a bowl; discard any unopened shells. Layer half of the potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish.
Spread half of the onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes over potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the rice, garlic, parsley, some pecorino, salt, and pepper. Distribute half the mussels (in their liquor) on top.
Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, vegetables, rice, cheeses, seasoning, and mussels. Drizzle generously with olive oil and pour any remaining mussel liquor over the casserole.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove foil and bake uncovered for another 25–30 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender, rice is fully cooked, and the top is golden with crisped edges.