Introduction
This delightful recipe combines the richness of ground beef with vibrant vegetables and a medley of spices, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The addition of beans and Colby cheese not only enhances the texture but also adds nutritional value, making this recipe a satisfying option for any meal. Ready in less than an hour, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1 cm (1/2 inch) cubes
500 grams (1 pound) ground beef
400 grams (14 ounces) canned red kidney beans or black beans, drained
1 cup tomato passata
1/3 cup pickled sliced jalapeño
1 1/2 cups Colby cheese, shredded
Mexican Spice Mix:
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin powder
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or black pepper)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
Set the oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (350°F) if using a fan-forced oven.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
In an ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Cook Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink.
4. Add Spices:
Sprinkle the Mexican spice mix over the beef. Stir well and cook for an additional minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
5. Incorporate Beans and Tomato:
Add the drained kidney beans and tomato passata to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Jalapeño and Cheese:
Evenly distribute the pickled sliced jalapeño over the beef and bean mixture. Sprinkle the shredded Colby cheese on top, covering the surface.
7. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the dish with your choice of accompaniments such as tortillas, corn chips, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Notes
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spice Level:
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or jalapeños according to your preference for spiciness.
Cheese Variations:
Feel free to substitute the Colby cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or over rice for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure your oven is set to the correct temperature before placing your dish inside. Preheating helps to create a consistent cooking environment, which is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This technique helps to release the flavors of the vegetables and soften them, making them more palatable.
Cooking Ground Beef
When cooking ground beef, break it apart with a spoon or spatula to ensure even cooking. Brown the meat until it is no longer pink, which helps to develop a rich flavor.
Toasting Spices
Adding spices to the cooking meat allows the flavors to bloom. Toasting spices for a minute before adding liquids enhances their aroma and depth of flavor in the final dish.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking ingredients gently in liquid just below the boiling point. This technique allows flavors to meld together without causing the ingredients to break down excessively.
Baking
Baking is a dry heat cooking method that uses an oven. It’s effective for melting cheese and creating a bubbly topping, while also ensuring the flavors integrate fully.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your dish with accompaniments like tortillas, guacamole, or sour cream to enhance the flavors and provide a variety of textures in each bite.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Colby cheese with other types like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional beans for a vegetarian version.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or jalapeños according to your preference. Omit them entirely for a milder dish.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes well with tortillas, corn chips, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Conclusion
This hearty dish combines flavorful ingredients, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The harmonious blend of spices, beans, and melted cheese makes for a perfect comfort food that’s easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed on its own or with various accompaniments, this recipe is sure to please any palate.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chili con Carne
Transform the dish into a chili con carne by adding diced tomatoes, corn, and additional spices like chili powder or cayenne. Serve it with cornbread for a classic pairing.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the beef and bean mixture to stuff halved bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden.
Taco Salad
Turn it into a taco salad by layering the meat and bean mixture over a bed of lettuce, then adding toppings such as diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
Quesadilla Filling
Use the mixture as a filling for quesadillas, adding extra cheese for a gooey, delicious treat. Serve with salsa or guacamole on the side.
Beef and Bean Burritos
Wrap the mixture in large tortillas to create burritos, adding rice or extra veggies for more texture. Wrap them tightly and grill for a crispy exterior.
Nachos Supreme
Spread tortilla chips on a baking tray, top with the beef and bean mixture, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake until everything is hot and bubbly, then serve with jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream.
