Description
This Tuscan Beef Casserole is a warm, hearty dish perfect for cozy dinners. Featuring ground beef simmered with colorful bell peppers, carrots, and aromatic Italian herbs, all baked to perfection with a cheesy breadcrumb topping. A comforting meal that balances robust flavors with satisfying textures, ideal for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Ground turkey can be used for a lighter option.)
- 1 medium Onion (Shallots can be substituted.)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available.)
- 2 medium Carrots (Zucchini or bell peppers are tasty alternatives.)
- 1 each Red Bell Pepper
- 1 each Yellow Bell Pepper
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce (Canned tomato puree is an easy swap.)
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes (Fresh tomatoes can be used when in season.)
- 1 cup Beef Broth (Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.)
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning (Oregano or a mix of dried herbs are good substitutes.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Avocado oil is suitable as an alternative.)
- 1 cup Cheese (Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan; dairy-free cheese works for allergies.)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Optional for added crunch; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, peel and chop the carrots, and dice the red and yellow bell peppers. This ensures that all vegetables are ready for cooking and will blend evenly into the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the carrots and bell peppers and cook until they start to soften, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Brown the Ground Beef. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Sauces and Seasonings. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and allow to cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, so the flavors meld and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, followed by a layer of breadcrumbs if using, to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake the Casserole. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve and Enjoy. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter, leaner dish.
- Shallots and garlic powder are fine substitutes if fresh ingredients aren’t available.
- Zucchini or additional bell peppers can add variety to the vegetables.
- Vegetable broth allows for a vegetarian adaptation if ground beef is replaced accordingly.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs and dairy-free cheese can accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
