Welcome to my table, dear friends. Today, we are crafting a dish that speaks the language of comfort and warmth. This gratin is a beautiful marriage of succulent, seared beef and sweet bell peppers, all tucked under a blanket of bubbling, golden cheese. It is simple, honest, and utterly deeply satisfying.
🍅 The Pantry & Stats
Prep Time: 15 Minutes | Cook Time: 40 Minutes | Servings: 4-6
1.5 lbs Beef top sirloin or chuck, cubed into bite-sized pieces
2 Large bell peppers (red and green), sliced into thick ribbons
1 Medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 Cloves garlic, smashed and minced
2 Cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mozzarella cheese
1/2 Cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley for a vibrant finish
Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
The Method
🔥 Begin by heating your oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they develop a deep, caramelized crust on all sides. Chef’s Tip: Do not crowd the pan, as we want to sear the meat, not steam it. Remove the beef and set it aside to rest.
🧅 In the same pan, toss in your peppers and onions. Sauté them until they are soft and slightly charred around the edges, picking up all those flavorful beef drippings from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the garlic and smoked paprika for just a minute until the aroma is irresistible.
🥘 Toss the seared beef back with the vegetables and stir in the tomato passata to create a light, savory binding. Transfer the mixture into a glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Chef’s Tip: If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added now will elevate the entire profile.
🧀 Cover the top with a generous, thick layer of cheese. Bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is molten, blistered, and golden-brown. Let the dish stand for five minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle into a rich sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and serve while the cheese still stretches.
Common Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of steak? ✨ Yes, ground beef makes for a wonderful "hamburger-style" bake; just drain the excess fat after browning to keep the gratin light.
What should I serve this with? ✨ This is magnificent over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or served with a crusty baguette to soak up the savory tomato juices.
Can I freeze this dish? ✨ It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the beef and pepper mixture (without cheese) for up to a month. Add fresh cheese before baking.
The Final Toast
May every bite bring you the comfort of home and the joy of a shared meal. 🥂
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