Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Meat

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional if using lean beef)

Vegetables

• 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Sauce

• 1 (14.5 oz/410 g) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup shredded cheddar
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan (optional)

Garnish

• Chopped parsley

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease two small foil pans or one 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook Beef

• Heat skillet over medium-high heat.
• Brown ground beef for 5–7 minutes.
• Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

• Add onion and garlic.
• Cook 2 minutes.
• Add sliced peppers.
• Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 4: Season

Mix in:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Red pepper flakes

Cook 1 minute.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes

Stir in:

• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce

Simmer 5 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble

Transfer mixture to baking dish.

Top evenly with:

• Mozzarella
• Cheddar
• Parmesan

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.

Sprinkle parsley before serving.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values.

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Helpful Notes

• Use 93% lean beef to reduce fat.
• Ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t overcook the peppers before baking—they’ll continue to soften in the oven.

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Variations

Low-Carb

Skip tomatoes or reduce the amount, and add mushrooms or zucchini.

Keto

Use full-fat cheese and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is low in sugar.

Extra Veggies

Add:

• Mushrooms
• Spinach
• Zucchini
• Cauliflower rice

Spicy

Mix in:

• Jalapeños
• Cayenne pepper
• Pepper Jack cheese

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Storage

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: 2–3 minutes until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze it before baking?
Yes. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: What cheese melts best?
Mozzarella provides a stretchy melt, while cheddar adds a richer flavor. A blend works best.

Q: Can I use different meats?
Yes. Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or Italian sausage are all good options.

Q: Can I add rice?
Absolutely. Stir in 1–2 cups of cooked rice before baking for a heartier casserole.

Q: How do I know it’s done?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Q: What should I serve with it?

• Garlic bread
• Green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Mashed potatoes
• Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal