Amish Beef Bell Pepper Bake (Print Version)
Savory ground beef layered with fresh bell peppers, tomato sauce, and melted cheese in a warm oven bake.
# Ingredients:
Meat
01 -
1.5 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
Vegetables
02 -
3 large green bell peppers, seeded and cut into bite-sized strips
Sauce
03 -
1 (24-ounce) jar thick tomato pasta sauce or marinara
Dairy
04 -
2 cups shredded mild cheese (Colby Jack or mild cheddar), loosely packed
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a 9x13-inch glass baking dish ready for use.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble in ground beef. Cook, stirring and breaking up with a wooden spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
03 -
Add the tomato pasta sauce to the browned beef. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
04 -
Spread the cut green bell peppers evenly across the bottom of the ungreased baking dish.
05 -
Pour the hot beef and sauce mixture over the peppers, spreading evenly with the back of a spoon.
06 -
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef mixture, covering to the edges for even browning.
07 -
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake on center oven rack for 25 minutes until peppers soften and edges bubble.
08 -
Remove foil carefully to avoid steam, then bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted, lightly browned, and peppers are tender.
09 -
Let the dish rest 5–10 minutes on a heatproof surface to allow juices to settle before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Removing excess grease from the cooked beef prevents a soggy bake and enhances flavor concentration.