Cheesy Beef & Pepper Oven Casserole

by

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

  • 700 g (1.5 lbs) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning or oregano
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup beef broth (optional, for moisture)

For the Creamy Layer

  • 1 cup heavy cream OR 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1½ cups mozzarella (or your favorite blend)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Base

  1. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onions and sauté until soft.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, chili flakes, and salt.
  5. Add diced red and green peppers and cook until tender.
  6. Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth if using.
  7. Simmer on low for 5–7 minutes until thick and flavorful.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

2. Prepare the Creamy Layer

In a mixing bowl:

  • Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream or milk, salt, and pepper.
  • Add 1 cup mozzarella and ½ cup cheddar.
  • Stir to combine.

This mixture will bake into a soft, custardy, cheesy layer that binds the casserole.

3. Layer the Casserole

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a large baking dish.
  3. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the dish.
  4. Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the top.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups mozzarella over everything.

4. Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until:

  • the top is golden,
  • cheese is bubbling,
  • and edges are slightly crisp.

Let it rest 10 minutes before cutting.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread
  • Steamed rice
  • Mashed potatoes
  • A fresh green salad
  • Roasted vegetables

It’s also delicious inside wraps, stuffed in pita bread, or served over pasta.

Storage

  • Refrigerate 3–4 days.
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Leave a Comment