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Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole

Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole
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This Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole is a comforting, wholesome meal that combines lean ground beef with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, layered into a hearty, cheesy casserole. Quick and easy to make in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a nutritious, kid-friendly dish full of flavor and texture. The recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb lean ground beef

Vegetables

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1½ cups cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar mixed)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, etc.)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Veggies: Wash and chop bell peppers, zucchini, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor quickly.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, bell peppers, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic towards the end to avoid burning, cooking briefly until fragrant.
  4. Combine Meat and Veggies: Return cooked ground beef to the skillet with vegetables. Stir in tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly and let the flavors meld on low heat for a couple of minutes.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and veggie mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of the cheese blend on top, then evenly sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
  6. Bake and Serve: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Use fresh, lean ground beef for the best flavor and health benefits.
  • Sauté vegetables well to enhance sweetness and improve texture.
  • Season in layers with salt, pepper, and herbs for richer flavor.
  • Top the casserole with fresh basil or parsley after baking for a bright, fresh aroma.
  • Use a cheese blend of mozzarella and cheddar to balance meltiness and sharpness.
  • Allow the casserole to rest a few minutes before cutting and serving to hold its shape.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, vegetable casserole, easy weeknight dinner, cheesy casserole, healthy comfort food, gluten-free casserole option

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/ground-beef-and-veggie-casserole/