Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of the Middle East? This Beef Kofta and Veggies Casserole is not just a meal; it's a delightful explosion of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds! With succulent ground beef koftas nestled atop a bed of vibrant mixed vegetables and smothered in rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this casserole is as easy to make as it is delicious. Don't miss out on this irresistible recipe that promises to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the beef mixture into oval-shaped meatballs (koftas), approximately 2 inches long. Ensure they are compact and uniform in size for even cooking.
- Chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the formed koftas on top of the vegetables in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Pour tomato sauce evenly over the koftas and vegetables, making sure to cover most of the surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the koftas and vegetables.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the koftas are cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional fresh parsley or a side of rice or bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the koftas and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
- Uniform Koftas: When shaping the koftas, aim for uniformity in size to ensure they cook evenly. A small ice cream scoop can help you achieve consistent shapes.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables! Broccoli, eggplant, or even sweet potatoes can add unique flavors and textures to the dish.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili peppers to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
- Cheese Choices: While shredded cheese is a must, experimenting with different types like feta or mozzarella can elevate the dish to new heights.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
