Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly captures bold flavors with comforting warmth, the Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake is exactly what your dinner table needs. This hearty meal brings together tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and soft potatoes all kissed by smoky spices and topped with golden melted cheddar cheese. The combination is so satisfying and colorful, it feels like a fiesta in every bite, making it an instant favorite for weeknights or laid-back gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen these ingredients are for the Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake. Each one plays a key role: from the richness of ground beef to the sweet crunch of bell peppers, and the warmth from spices that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a juicy base for the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
• 1 onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant, savory punch.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds a sweet, vibrant pop of color and flavor.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced: Complements with a mild fruity note and brightness.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Offers a fresh, slightly peppery crunch.
• 2 cups diced potatoes: Give creamy, tender texture that rounds out the meal.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Delivers that earthy, warm Southwestern warmth.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Packs just enough spice to awaken the taste buds.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to a gooey, flavorful topping with a rich tang.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Provides a fresh, herbal brightness as a garnish.

How to Make Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready. Then, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion turns translucent and soft—this builds a fragrant foundation for the whole dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it apart gently with a spatula, until it’s thoroughly browned and cooked through. This step is where your meat really develops a savory, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat before moving forward.

Step 3: Add the Colorful Vegetables

Now the fun part—stir in the diced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the diced potatoes. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes so the vegetables soften just a bit, mingling their flavors without losing their wonderful texture.

Step 4: Season with Spices

Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, ensuring every morsel is beautifully coated with those warm, smoky spices that define the Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake.

Step 5: Bake with Cheese

Transfer your flavorful beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese has melted to a golden, bubbly perfection.

Step 6: Cool and Garnish

Once baked, take the dish out and let it cool slightly before serving. Add a scattering of chopped fresh cilantro for a refreshing contrast that brightens every bite of your Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake.

How to Serve Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a lively pop of green and a burst of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado for an extra creamy element.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its hearty flavors. You might also enjoy it alongside warm corn tortillas or some flavored rice for a more Southwestern-themed feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake in individual ramekins for a charming presentation. Alternatively, scoop it into toasted pita pockets or stuff it into bell pepper halves for a colorful and festive meal option that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container to preserve those fresh, vibrant flavors.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it perfect for prepping meals in advance. Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is melty again, or microwave individual portions covered loosely to maintain moisture. This way, every bite will feel as comforting as when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a leaner option while still soaking up all the delicious flavors of the spices and vegetables.

What if I don’t have all three colors of bell peppers?

No worries—using just one or two colors is totally fine. Each pepper adds a slightly different taste and color, but the dish will still taste fantastic with fewer varieties.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables to bring in some extra heat that suits your spice level perfectly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra hearty beans to keep it protein-rich while maintaining the same great texture and spices.

What type of potatoes work best?

You can use russet or Yukon gold potatoes—both hold up well in the oven and develop a tender, creamy interior that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Once you try the Oven Baked Southwestern Beef and Pepper Bake, it’s bound to become one of those go-to dishes you reach for anytime you want a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and vibrant enough to brighten any table. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and share the joy of this Southwestern-inspired classic!

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