My kids refer to this as their ‘Dream Bake’ because they can’t stop imagining having seconds!
Oven-Baked Southwestern Beef and Veggie Casserole
Bring bold flavors and vibrant colors to your dinner table with this easy Southwestern-style casserole. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and crisp bell peppers, this one-pan dish is topped with melty cheese and baked to perfection. It’s the ideal weeknight meal—filling, family-friendly, and low on cleanup.
🧂 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Potatoes, diced | 2 cups |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Yellow bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Green bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) | ¼ cup |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for a few minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned, then drain any excess grease. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper for that signature Southwest flavor.
3. Mix and Layer
In a large baking dish, combine the seasoned beef with the diced potatoes and chopped bell peppers. Mix until evenly distributed. Cover tightly with foil.
4. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the potatoes begin to soften.
5. Top with Cheese
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly across the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve It Up
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. If desired, top with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor.
