Description
This Tuscan Beef Casserole is a warm, comforting dish combining ground beef with vibrant vegetables, savory tomato sauce, and Italian herbs, topped with melted cheese and breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Perfect for family dinners and easily customizable with ingredient alternatives to suit dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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 Red Bell Pepper
- 1 Yellow Bell Pepper
- 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)
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning (Oregano or a mix of dried herbs are good substitutes)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 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: Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Dice the carrots, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper into small uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the diced carrots, red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning.
- Incorporate tomato base and broth: Pour in the cup of tomato sauce, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the casserole: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, then add the breadcrumbs if desired for extra texture.
- Bake to finish: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a lighter version.
- Vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers can replace carrots for variation.
- Use dairy-free cheese and vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian or suitable for dairy allergies.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but provide a pleasant crunchy topping; gluten-free breadcrumbs work as well.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
