Description
A comforting casserole filled with rich Italian flavors, combining ground beef, delicious vegetables, and gooey cheese, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, carrots, and bell peppers, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then bring to a simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the beef mixture into a prepared casserole dish, smoothing it out evenly. Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a vegan version, swap ground beef for lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. Adjust seasonings to taste for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg