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A healthy cuban beef casserole, rich in lean protein and vegetables.

Classic Healthy Cuban Beef Casserole

This hearty and healthy Cuban beef casserole is packed with flavor, featuring lean ground beef, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, all baked to perfection.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Foil

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion chopped
  • 2 bell peppers red, green, or yellow, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained fire-roasted preferred
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa for base or topping
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks, then drain excess fat.
  • Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet, cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, beef broth, and all spices; simmer for 5-10 minutes to meld flavors, then season.
  • Spread rice/quinoa in the baking dish if using as a base, then pour the beef mixture over it; otherwise, pour the beef mixture directly into the dish.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes; then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.

Finishing

  • Remove from oven, stir in fresh lime juice, and sprinkle with cilantro. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

Notes

This casserole is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal. You can easily adapt it by adding more vegetables or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.