Never Had This Before, But Boy Was It Good! My Hubby Finished the Entire Tray!

Sometimes the best dishes are the ones you’ve never tried before. One evening, curiosity led me to experiment in the kitchen, and the result? An irresistible tray of goodness that disappeared in minutes. Even my husband, who usually saves room for dessert, devoured the entire tray! Today, I’m sharing this delightful recipe step by step so you can recreate this mouthwatering treat at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dish, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef or chicken – you can also use turkey for a lighter version
1 cup chopped onions
1 cup diced bell peppers (any color you like)
2 cups cooked pasta or rice
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, extra cheese, or fresh herbs

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).

Next, add your ground meat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 7–10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. This will create a flavorful base for your dish.