My kids refer to this as their ‘Dream Bake’ because they can’t stop imagining having seconds!

This Oven-Baked Southwestern Beef and Vegetable Bake is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that brings a taste of the Southwest to your dinner table. It’s a perfect family-friendly dish with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and colorful bell peppers, all topped with a layer of gooey melted cheese. Minimal cleanup and a satisfying taste make this a great choice for a simple weeknight dinner.

Oven-Baked Southwestern Beef and Vegetable Bake

Ingredients:

How To Make Oven-Baked Southwestern Beef and Vegetable Bake:

1. Step 1: Prep & Sauté: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Step 2: Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.
3. Step 3: Combine & Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked beef mixture with the diced potatoes and bell peppers. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add Cheese & Finish: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
5. Step 5: Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if you like.