Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors, then you’re in for a treat with this Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake. This recipe perfectly balances tender ground beef, sweet and crunchy bell peppers, and golden baked potatoes, all crowned with a melty cheddar cheese topping. Each bite transports you to a lively southwestern fiesta, making it an unforgettable meal that feels both comforting and exciting. Trust me, once you try this bake, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully is what makes this Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake so delightful. Each element adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color, transforming the humble into something extraordinary.

• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
• 1 onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed to soften and caramelize slightly.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic intensity that brightens the overall taste.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and vibrant red color for eye-catching appeal.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced: Brings mild sweetness and sunny golden hues that contrast beautifully.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Offers a slightly grassy note and crisp texture to balance the richness.
• 2 cups diced potatoes: Hearty and comforting, they soak up the flavors and provide a tender bite when baked.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts earthiness and a warm, slightly smoky undertone.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds gentle heat and that classic southwestern flair.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors harmoniously.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a golden, gooey topping that everyone loves.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Brings fresh, herby brightness as a finishing touch.

How to Make Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake

Step 1: Prepare Your Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them gently until the onion turns translucent and tender. This base builds the flavorful foundation that makes every bite irresistible.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly until it’s browned and no pink remains. This step infuses the dish with savory richness and ensures the beef has that perfect, crumbly texture. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish balanced.

Step 3: Add the Colorful Bell Peppers and Potatoes

Mix in the diced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the potatoes. Allow everything to cook together for around five minutes, stirring occasionally. This softens the vegetables slightly and lets their unique flavors meld beautifully with the beef.

Step 4: Season with Southwestern Spices

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir so every piece is coated with the rich, aromatic spices that define this dish’s southwestern character.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top. Pop it into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C), baking for 25 to 30 minutes. The result should be melting cheese with golden-brown spots and tender, flavorful potatoes beneath.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Once baked, let the dish cool slightly to set before serving. For an optional fresh touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top. This little green flourish adds a lovely, zesty brightness that complements the rich bake perfectly.

How to Serve Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake

Garnishes

A little goes a long way when it comes to garnishes for this Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake. Fresh cilantro leaves add a burst of color and a cool herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices. You can also consider a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to add creaminess and tang.

Side Dishes

This bake is wonderfully filling on its own but pairs brilliantly with simple sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or some fluffy Mexican-style rice. If you want to keep the southwestern vibe going, chips and guacamole make a perfect crunchy companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve this bake in individual small ramekins for personal portions or arrange it on a large platter garnished with cilantro, scallions, and jalapeño slices for color and mild heat. Another fun idea is to scoop it onto warm tortillas and turn it into savory Southwestern tacos, perfect for casual dinners or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent drying out. It tastes fantastic warmed up and sometimes even better once the flavors have had a day to meld.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, this bake freezes nicely. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen, it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the bake either in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted and bubbly again, or microwave individual portions for convenience. A quick broil at the end can revive that delicious golden cheesy crust.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great leaner alternatives. Just be mindful that they cook faster and are less fatty, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil to keep the dish moist and flavorful.

Are there any good vegetarian substitutes for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Just adjust seasoning and cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! To kick up the heat, add diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables or increase the amount of chili powder. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper can also add an exciting fiery note without overpowering the flavors.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well because they hold their shape when baked and offer a creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets which tend to break down and get mushy during baking.

Can I prepare this dish entirely in advance and bake later?

Yes, you can prepare the skillet mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread it in the dish, add cheese, and bake as directed. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-dish meal that combines vibrant veggies, savory beef, and melting cheese like this Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and cheer to your table with very little fuss. So go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a new favorite that you and your family will keep coming back to again and again.

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