Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Casserole
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Add Vegetables and Sauce: To the skillet, add the diced bell pepper and mixed vegetables. Cook for another 5 minutes. Pour in the marinara sauce, add Italian herbs, salt, and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until everything is well combined.
Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Add Topping: Mix the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
