Description
This dish is a hearty, oven-baked beef and vegetable casserole topped with melted cheese. It combines seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, gooey cheese layer baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a simple one-pan style meal that works for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Servings & Time
Servings: 2–3
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
Beef & Veggie Base
- 500g ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped (or ½ cup canned tomatoes)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Cheese Topping
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese or grated cheddar (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the beef
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Season the mixture
Add salt, black pepper, paprika, herbs, and chili flakes. Mix well so the beef absorbs all the seasoning.
3. Add vegetables
Add bell peppers and tomatoes. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened but still colorful and slightly crisp.
4. Transfer to baking dish
Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture into a baking tray or foil containers, spreading evenly.
5. Add cheese layer
Top generously with mozzarella cheese. You can mix in a little cheddar or cream cheese for extra richness.
6. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10–15 minutes or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
7. Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 450–550 kcal
Protein: 30–35g
Fat: 30–38g
Carbohydrates: 8–12g
Fiber: 2–4g
(Values vary depending on cheese and beef fat percentage.)
Health Benefits
- High protein from beef and cheese supports muscle strength
- Bell peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants
- Garlic and onions support immunity and digestion
- Low-carb friendly for balanced or keto-style diets
Variations
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra volume
- Use chicken mince instead of beef for a lighter version
- Make it spicy with jalapeños or extra chili flakes
- Swap mozzarella for a stronger cheese like cheddar or gouda
- Add a spoon of tomato paste for a richer sauce base
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven at 180°C for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes
- Can be frozen (without cheese topping) for up to 1 month
FAQs
Can I make it without oven?
Yes, cover the pan and melt cheese on low heat until fully melted.
Can I make it meal prep friendly?
Yes, divide into containers and store for quick high-protein meals.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken mince works perfectly and reduces fat content.
Why is my dish watery?
Cook vegetables slightly longer before baking to remove excess moisture.
