Healthy Cuban Beef Casserole

A Cozy, Flavorful Dish That Brings Comfort Without the Guilt

I’ll be honest with you—this Healthy Cuban Beef Casserole has become one of my go-to comfort meals. Every time I make it, my kitchen fills with the rich aroma of spices, tomatoes, and tender beef simmering together—it’s one of those smells that instantly makes you hungry. What I love most, though, is that it feels indulgent while still being balanced and nourishing.

You know those recipes that taste like they took hours but secretly come together with minimal effort? This is one of them.

About This Recipe

This casserole is a healthy twist on traditional Cuban-style picadillo, layered with lean ground beef, bell peppers, onions, olives, and a blend of warm spices. Instead of frying or using heavy oils, everything is gently simmered and baked until the flavors meld beautifully. The dish has that signature sweet-and-savory balance Cuban cuisine is known for—thanks to raisins, olives, and a touch of tomato.

The result? A hearty, wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep Sundays.

Why This Recipe Is Special

There’s something so comforting about the flavors of Cuba—sweet, tangy, smoky, and full of personality. What makes this casserole special is its ability to deliver all of that flavor in a healthier package. We’re using lean ground beef, lots of veggies, and just enough spices to make your taste buds dance without overdoing the salt or fat.

Plus, casseroles are the ultimate “set it and forget it” type of meal—you can prep ahead, bake, and have dinner ready with almost no fuss.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Every bite bursts with Cuban-inspired goodness—savory beef, briny olives, and a hint of sweetness from raisins.
• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and healthy fats—without heavy sauces or excessive oil.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for future dinners.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters usually go back for seconds!

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

Don’t worry—you don’t need any fancy gadgets here. Just a few kitchen basics:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For browning the beef and veggies. (I like using a cast iron pan for even heat.)
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula: To stir everything together without scratching your pan.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: You’ll be chopping onions, peppers, and garlic.
• Casserole Dish (9×13-inch / 23×33 cm): This is where the magic happens when everything bakes together.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For those precise spice levels (especially the cumin—it’s powerful!).
• Aluminum Foil: To cover while baking so everything stays moist and tender.

🥩 Ingredients

(Serves 6)

For the Casserole

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef – I prefer 90% lean for just enough flavor without extra grease.
• 1 tbsp olive oil (15 mL) – A heart-healthy fat that helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup / 120 g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds that authentic Cuban punch.
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup (40 g) green olives, sliced – The brininess balances the sweetness.
• 2 tbsp raisins (20 g) – Optional but adds a lovely contrast.
• 1 tsp ground cumin (5 mL)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (5 mL)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (2.5 mL) – Just a touch for depth.
• 1/2 tsp salt (2.5 mL), or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (1.25 mL)
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) low-sodium beef broth

Optional Toppings

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Lime wedges for a bright finish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if needed.

💬 I like to leave just a tiny bit of fat in there—it adds flavor and helps the spices bloom later.

2. Sauté the Veggies

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the beef. Stir and cook for another 4–5 minutes, until everything softens and smells amazing.

This is when your kitchen starts smelling like a Cuban street corner at dinnertime—earthy, warm, and inviting.

3. Add Spices and Sauce

Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything. Then pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.

4. Stir in the Sweet and Savory Touches

Add the olives and raisins, mixing them through the beef mixture. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Don’t rush this step—the simmering time allows all the flavors to marry beautifully.

5. Transfer to the Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Bake

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes to slightly caramelize the top.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, and serve with a squeeze of lime for brightness.

🍽 Serving Ideas

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are some pairing ideas:

• Over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthy base
• With steamed green beans or roasted plantains
• Stuff it into whole-grain tortillas for a Cuban-inspired taco twist
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy, cooling touch

🔄 Variations & Customizations

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the beef with lentils or crumbled tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Spicier Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Extra Veggies: Zucchini, spinach, or carrots blend in perfectly.
• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle with a bit of low-fat mozzarella before baking if you like that melty touch.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

💡 Pro Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Here’s where I spill a few secrets from experience:

• Don’t over-drain the beef: A little fat equals flavor.
• Simmer, don’t rush: The longer you let the spices mingle, the richer it tastes.
• Taste before baking: Adjust salt and spices—it’s much harder after it’s in the oven.
• Use fresh garlic: Pre-minced loses that punchy aroma.
• Avoid overbaking: You want it hot and bubbly, not dry.

🕒 Recipe Summary

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 24 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 3 g

🌿 Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving something warm, wholesome, and just a little different, this Healthy Cuban Beef Casserole is it. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort without the heavy feeling afterward.