Creole Tomato Casserole

Ingredients: 

• 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups chopped onions
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 Creole tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp Cajun Chef Cayenne Pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano leaves
• 1/2 tsp dried sweet basil
• 1 cup fine bread crumbs
• 6 Tbsp butter, melted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps: 

In a large heavy pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions, green onions, bell pepper, celery and garlic. Sauté for about five minutes or until the vegetables are soft. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring often, until brown. Add the tomatoes, salt, cayenne, oregano and basil. Cook, uncovered, over medium-low fire, stirring occasionally, for one hour. Preheat the oven to 350º F. Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the bread crumbs, then drizzle with the butter. Sprinkle the top with the cheese. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts. Makes 6 servings.