Pinto Bean & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe ๐ฒ
Overview:
Welcome to a delightful journey through the flavors of this Pinto Bean & Ground Beef Casserole! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe promises a symphony of savory goodness with a touch of cheesy indulgence. Bursting with wholesome ingredients like lean ground beef, pinto beans, and vibrant vegetables, this hearty casserole is a wholesome treat for both the body and soul. Let’s dive into the culinary magic and create a dish that will delight taste buds and warm hearts!
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 6 oz |
| Onion | 1/2 |
| Green bell pepper | 1/2 |
| Pinto beans | 24 oz |
| Stewed tomatoes | 15 oz |
| Part-skim mozzarella cheese | 6 oz |
| Skim milk | 1 cup |
| Corn meal | 2 cups |
Instructions:
Let’s embark on our culinary adventure step by step:
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Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
- Spray a casserole dish lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Saute Beef, Onion, and Pepper:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sautรฉ the lean ground beef, diced onion, and green bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. This step infuses the dish with rich flavors and aromas, setting the stage for a tantalizing casserole.
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Layering:
- Transfer the sautรฉed beef, onion, and pepper mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This forms the hearty foundation of our flavorful creation.
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Adding Beans and Tomatoes:
- Next, layer the pinto beans and stewed tomatoes over the beef mixture. The combination of tender beans and juicy tomatoes adds depth and texture to our casserole, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness.
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Cheesy Bliss:
- Sprinkle the shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese evenly over the beans and tomatoes. The cheese will melt into gooey perfection during baking, creating a luscious blanket of cheesy goodness that ties all the ingredients together.
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Cornmeal Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix together skim milk and cornmeal until well combined. This creamy cornmeal mixture serves as the crowning glory of our casserole, adding a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Final Touch:
- Gently pour the cornmeal mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish, ensuring even coverage. This step not only adds visual appeal but also adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with savory goodness. The aroma wafting from the oven will tantalize your senses, signaling that our masterpiece is nearly ready to be enjoyed.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Slice into generous portions and savor the harmonious blend of flavors and textures with each mouthwatering bite. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family dinner or shared at potlucks and gatherings, this Pinto Bean & Ground Beef Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Nutritional Information:
Per serving:
- Calories: 298.7
- Fat Content: 6.8g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 28.1mg
- Sodium Content: 490.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 40.5g
- Fiber Content: 9.5g
- Sugar Content: 3.7g
- Protein Content: 20.2g
Conclusion:
With its robust flavors, wholesome ingredients, and comforting appeal, this Pinto Bean & Ground Beef Casserole is a culinary masterpiece that invites you to savor every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating your family to a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises to delight with its hearty goodness and cheesy indulgence. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that’s sure to leave everyone craving for more!
