Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a culinary masterpiece that combines hearty ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and irresistible Italian flavors! This Beef and Vegetable Bake is not just a meal; it's a comfort food experience that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. With just 15 minutes of prep time and less than an hour in the oven, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure that your Beef and Vegetable Bake cooks evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 500g of ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced zucchini and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, and add the 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the mixture is simmering, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly and the flavors to intensify.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the dish set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve your Beef and Vegetable Bake warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Make sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
- Cut vegetables into uniform, small dice to ensure even cooking and distribution.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before the final 15 minutes of baking.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier.
- Experiment with additional herbs like fresh basil or oregano for a more aromatic touch.
- This dish pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 356kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
