Cheesy Ground Beef and Pepper Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup sliced green or red chilies, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Add the ground beef and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella generously over the top. Add extra diced peppers if desired.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and lightly golden around the edges.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Serving

Serve hot with a green salad, steamed vegetables, rice, or warm bread.

Tip: For a richer, cheesier topping, add a little extra cheddar during the last 5 minutes of baking.