Name: Cozy Veggie & Beef Casserole Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or sour cream); 2 tbsp olive oil

Description

This cozy veggie and beef casserole bake is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. With layers of savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s a comforting all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream (or sour cream)
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir in broccoli, carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Mix in heavy cream (or sour cream) and half the shredded cheese until combined.
Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese and Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for variety.
This casserole freezes well—store in portions for easy reheating.
Great way to use up leftover vegetables.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Main Dish
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 410
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: veggie beef casserole, cozy beef bake, vegetable beef casserole, cheesy ground beef bake, family dinner casserole